Our Testimonies - A Discussion & Study

Brothers and Sisters,

I was doing a word study on the word, "Testimony", and I found it to be fascinating. As Christians, we should be thinking about this word often. "Testimony" is a fairly simple word, but it really has significant applications, especially for Christians. As an example, Christians have a testimony for or against JESUS CHRIST every day whether we realize it or not. Let's talk about this in many ways and explore the impact of this word "Testimony" throughout Bible History. I think you will find it fascinating and hope you will all join it. After all, we all have a "Testimony" whether we realize it or not, so let's explore and find out some things about ourselves in the process. What we find out about ourselves can be kept private or talked about openly, depending on the individual wishes of each person participating.

First, let's give everyone an idea about where we might be able to go with this discussion. Webster's Bible Dictionary might be a good place to start.

Testimony
TEST'IMONY, n. [L. testimonium.] A solemn declaration or affirmation made for the purpose of establishing or proving some fact. Such affirmation in judicial proceedings,may be verbal or written, but must be under oath. Testimony differs from evidence; testimony is the declaration of a witness, and evidence is the effect of that declaration on the mind, or the degree of light which it affords.

1. Affirmation; declaration. These doctrines are supported by the uniform testimony of the fathers. The belief of past facts must depend on the evidence of human testimony, or the testimony of historians.

2. Open attestation; profession.

Thou for the testimony of truth hast borne

Universal reproach.

3. Witness; evidence; proof of some fact.

Shake off the dust under your feet, for a testimony against them. Mark 6.

4. In Scripture, the two tables of the law.

Thou shalt put into the ark the testimony which I shall give thee. Exo 25.

5. The book of the law.

He brought forth the king's son--and gave him the testimony. 2 Ki 11.

6. The gospel, which testifies of Christ and declares the will of God. 1 Cor 2. 2 Tim 1.

7. The ark. Exo 16.

8. The word of God; the Scriptures.

The testimony of the Lord is sure, making wise the simple Psa 19.

9. The laws or precepts of God. "I love thy testimonies." "I have kept thy testimonies."

10. That which is equivalent to a declaration; manifestation.

Sacrifices were appointed by God for a testimony of his hatred of sin.

11. Evidence suggested to the mind; as the testimony of conscience. 2 Cor 1.

12. Attestation; confirmation.

TEST'IMONY, v.t. To witness.
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Maybe a few easy questions to start with:

1 - What does the word "Testimony" mean to you and how have you applied this word?

2 - Have you thought about this word before - possibly in a courtroom setting? As an example, have you testified as a witness about the TRUTH?

3 - What does the word "Testimony" usually imply? As an example, have you seen or heard something that is evidence or can be evidence of the TRUTH?

4 - Has GOD given us TESTIMONY of the TRUTH?

5 - Have you given a personal TESTIMONY about what JESUS CHRIST means in your life? If not, would you like to? Please feel welcome.

I'm sure that you will get many ideas if you use the concordance or topical chain reference in your Bible. Please feel welcome to share as you begin to explore. This is a HUGE and extremely important issue for every Christian.