9 APRIL

THE WITNESS (2)

“When they had preached the gospel to that city and had made many disciples, they returned to Lystra and to Iconium and to Antioch, strengthening the souls of the disciples, encouraging them to continue in the faith, and saying that through many tribulations we must enter the kingdom of God. (Acts 14:21–22, )

Paul and Barnabas had been recently threatened and physically attacked in those same cities in our text, so it was at great risk to their lives that they returned there. In spite of the dangers, they felt strongly that they needed to be present to encourage the new believers and to help them organise the right spiritual leadership to help them grow in their faith. They defeated Satan by the blood of the Lamb and by the truth which they proclaimed; and they were willing to give up their lives and die (Revelation 12:11).

A witness for Jesus Christ may have to pay a price (sacrificial). The Greek word: “martus” appears five times in the book of Revelation. Three times it is translated “witness” (1:5, 3:14, 11:3); and twice (in Revelation 2:13 and 17:6) it is translated “martyr”. A martyr sacrifices his or her life or something of great personal value for the sake of his or her belief.

We may need to witness, teach, strengthen and encourage new believers till Christ is formed in them. The price may just be time, talent and treasure, or it could be much more. Stand firm!

ACTION: Join the heroes and heroines of the faith (past and present) in proclaiming, defending and upholding the cause of the Gospel in this generation.

PRAYER: Help me, Lord, to be ever willing to pay the price as a witness for Christ.