TWELVE WISDOM RULES
OF TESTIMONY
Jack Edward Olson

A person's religious position is often so personal that we hesitate talking to them about Jesus. We don't know where or how to begin. While we know we have a vitally important story to tell, we don't want to be associated with those who have brought dishonor to Christianity. Even worse, how do we present the heart rending sacrifice of Jesus to someone who is embroiled in psychic science, eastern thought or the New Age, or believes Jesus was a fraud—who refuses to recognize his own spirit's call?

There is a principle that is so important, so basic, that God used it in his redemption plan. Jesus became a man. He was tempted as a man, suffered as a man, and shed his blood as the sacrifice to redeem men. People identified with his humanness. They saw him weep, love, bleed and die. But they also saw him heal the sick and deliver the possessed. They felt His peace and comfort and heard his gracious words. And thousands followed him even to death. They could, at last, identify with God.

Identification is characteristic of love, sympathy forgiving and charity. It is critical to understanding and wisdom. To establish friendships you must first find common ground. Paul said, "And unto the Jews I became as a Jew that I might gain (win) the Jews...to them that are without law as without law...that I might gain them that are without law. First Corinthians 9:20-22.

WISDOM RULES FOR TESTIMONY

Rule #1: Search for a common interest: It may be duties, responsibilities or irritants. This is an easy starting point and will direct your conversation.

Rule #2: Identify a problem. "Do you like what you do," is a good lead for insights into a person. If the conversation turns to skiing, you might say, "My problem is that it always takes two days: one to ski and the next to recuperate." If there is agreement, "I certainly look forward to a new body that won't tire." That turns the problem into something that arouses curiosity. You have also hinted a problem solution.

Rule #3: Be positive and uplifting. Avoid criticisms or gossip. Turn criticism into understanding and growth. Try this, "If only we could see it as God does." Showing reasons for a fault displays God's wisdom and love.

Rule: #4 Use love: Present your testimony as if it were a priceless gift to one in deep need; if it's a warning, like a plea to an only son. Your love is the link between your hearer and Jesus.

Rule #5 Relax. Simple messages often strike the deepest. It isn't necessary to always ask for a decision. Just the mention of a Christian act, may get the questions flowing.

Rule #6: Don't judge. Instead, let your testimony shed light upon error and unbelief. Don't curse the darkness when you can shed light. "His life is the light that shines THROUGH the darkness- -and the darkness can never extinguish it.

Rule #7: Trust God. When you lift up Christ, people will be drawn to him. Rejection anger and ridicule, are usually resistance to Christ and a mask for conviction. They may be signs of coming glory. You cannot see the results in this life but when the accounting is done, you may be astounded.

Rule #8: Prepare. Read the Bible. Make sure your words align with God's Word. Understand how God's principles worked in the course of your life as well as in the miraculous events.

Here are some tips:
1- As you read the Bible, ask yourself, "How does this apply to my life?"
2- Memorize scriptures that illustrate your testimony.
3- Talk about it with other Christians. Then think about the points you missed that would have made it stronger.
4- Think about how your testimony illustrates faith conversion, obedience, God's love, Mercy, joy, and peace of mind.

Rule #9: Be honest. Exaggeration is a common temptation. You may use similes and metaphors, but exaggeration of God's work, will not be honored by God. You may speak of peace that passes understanding and of joy unspeakable when they apply. But do not promise an immediate calm in life's storm. Don't pull things out of context.

Rule #10: Include the blood of Jesus—the blood covenant God has made with us. Essentially our testimonies are the result of that covenant. The statement, “what he has done for me, he can do for you,” or “His will is the same for both you and I.” This is a topic that deserves your immediate study.

Rule #11: Silence is not awkward. Don't chatter continuously. Pauses allow for thought and the Spirit's work. It takes patience to get ideas across. Don't preach.

Rule #12: If a decision for Christ is made, stop talking and help him pray. Anything more will be a distraction and may even work negatively.

Pray for your hearers, even silently, while you are there, and fervently when you leave.

end.