Effective Short Testimony

1. Effective Short Testimony FGBMFI- NGM 2013

2. What is a Testimony ? • Witness – Acts 1:8 • Evidence – Peter & John Acts 4:20 – for we cannot but speak the things • which we have seen and heard • Statement of fact – Mt 16:16 – “thou art the Christ” • Proof of what is heard, seen, or touched. 1 Jn 1:1 Short Testimony :- is witnessing/testifying to others about that which you have experienced through the saving grace of Jesus Christ.

3. Key Points to Note. • PRAYER, Planning and Preparation, even at the • “drop of the hat” • Be mindful of your audience – likely unbelievers • Amount of time available to you – only 5 mins • Aim of sharing the testimony:- • tell about love, forgiveness, deliverance, protection from • Jesus Christ • create a desire • convince your audience • get a favourable response

4. Some “DO’s” and “DON’T’s” • DO • Ask God for wisdom and guidance. 2. Follow the 3 point outline – “My Life with Christ” - Life before knowing Jesus Christ - How you came to meet Jesus Christ – (be specific) - Life after knowing Jesus Christ – (changes & meaning) • With an opening sentence that will get attention, • close with a statement to be remembered • Share to get your audience associate with your • past and present experiences • Give enough details to sustain interest. 6. With at best ONE scripture verse.

5. DON’T • Be excessive with words as “saved”, “convicted”; • avoid clichés – {“BA”, “MSc”, “PHD”} 2. Emphasize how “terrible” you used to be • Mention church denominations in a derogatory • way • Be overly critical or negative about any group or • an individual • Give the impression the Christian life is a “bed of • roses”

6. When Sharing. • Remember, Conviction is by the Holy Spirit • Share with loving enthusiasm - excited • Speak audibly and with natural voice • Remain cheerful and radiant • Maintain as much eye contact as possible • As much as possible share from memory not read

7. SUPER ALTS 2 MATERIAL