For Whom Do We Testify?

AM Psalm 61, 62 • PM Psalm 112, 115
Isa. 11:1-9; Rev. 20:1-10; John 5:30-47

Our gospel reading today is a unique example in that it is a long monologue from Jesus. Upon reflection, it struck me as being about credibility. It is clear that one of the greatest challenges of the circumstance was the people trying to decide if Jesus was more than just another Rabbi. Jesus speaks for this whole passage about who is testifying about him, and what it means. The interesting statements that jumped out to me were “If I testify about myself, my testimony is not true.” and “I have come in my Father’s name, and you do not accept me; but if someone else comes in his own name, you will accept him.”.

We have the opportunity to testify about our relationship with Jesus, but we also have the opportunity to testify on behalf of the body of Christ. We have to remember the value of celebrating and supporting the work of those who are working on Christ’s behalf. When someone approaches me and wants to “testify” about Jesus and themselves, I feel there is a big part of the equation that is left out. To me, that is the embodiment of “coming in your own name”. The fruit of our collective work as the body of Christ is the most palpable testimony we can offer. We have the opportunity to testify to others about the challenging and changing work that is being done that goes far beyond our individual limited reach. Just like the disciples before us, we can testify to the ways that the kingdom of God is at hand, and take great hope in the miracles that are presented every day.

Written by Dan Robinson

Dan Robinson is the Media Ministries specialist at St. Paul’s, overseeing the streaming of services online.