Our testimony (witness) is more powerful than most Christians probably realize. In Revelation, John is talking about Satan being thrown out of heaven: “And the great dragon was thrown down, that ancient serpent, who is called the devil and Satan, the deceiver of the whole world–he was thrown down to the earth, and his angels were thrown down with him” (Revelation 12:9). What’s amazing is how the brothers and sisters defeated Satan: “And they have conquered him by the blood of the Lamb and by the word of their testimony, for they loved not their lives even unto death” (vs. 11).
Nicodemus was asking Jesus questions about being born again. Jesus answered, “Truly, truly, I say to you, we speak of what we know, and bear witness to what we have seen, but you do not receive our testimony” (John 3:11). Jesus then said that he who comes from heaven is above all. “He bears witness to what he has seen and heard, yet no one receives his testimony. Whoever receives his testimony sets his seal to this, that God is true” (vs. 32-33). Both giving our testimony (or witness about Jesus) and receiving the testimony of Jesus and the prophets is essential for salvation.
Our testimony isn’t mere words. It has the power to conquer Satan! Demons shrieked at the name of Christ. We must bear witness to what we have seen and heard–to how Christ is working in our lives. Peter says to honor Christ the Lord as holy, “always being prepared to make a defense to anyone who asks you for a reason for the hope that is in you; yet do it with gentleness and respect” (1 Peter 3:15). Our testimony matters. We must always be prepared to bear witness to Christ and his power in our lives.