3 Steps to Write Your Testimony of FaithSample

Introduction

Glad you can join us!

In this reading plan, we are going to help you document your testimony of faith so that you, too, can be ready, just as the Bible says:

Always be prepared to give an answer to everyone who asks you to give the reason for the hope that you have. – 1 Peter 3:15b

That sounds pretty straightforward, but for many (most?) of us we do not have our testimony ready to share in a clear and simple way. Sure, we believe, and we can tell a few stories – but having a well-documented testimony, hmmm, not so sure about that.

We know that we are commanded to be ready with our testimony, but we just haven’t really gotten around to it.

This reading plan changes that.

Let’s start with a simple outline of what your testimony might look like, following the example of the Apostle Paul.

In the book of Acts alone, Paul shares his testimony three times, and each time is a little different but includes the same three elements:

1. Before: Paul gives an outline of the situation before he encountered Jesus.
2. During: Paul shares a narrative of the encounter itself.
3. After: Paul describes how life has been different since meeting Jesus.

As we help build your testimony, we will also follow the same outline:

1. Before: Your life before you were saved / your old life before you accepted Jesus.
2. During: How you came to accept Jesus as Savior.
3. After: Your life after you were saved / your new life with Christ.

You might be thinking – “my testimony is nothing like the Apostle Paul's,” and you are right. Almost certainly, the three components of your testimony are completely different than what the Apostle Paul experienced, and that’s OK.

Your experience is YOUR experience. Don’t compare it to that of the Apostle Paul, of your pastor, or neighbor down the road.

We are all unique, and it is the power of your unique story – your own personal testimony – that is important. Your story is what will touch someone else’s heart in a way that the testimony of even the Apostle Paul cannot.

Ready to begin?

Then, think through the three points outlined above and come back next time to start on your testimony.