Who Do You Bear Witness Of? By Major Frank Materu
Key Scripture:
"You are my witnesses,” declares the Lord, “and my servant whom I have chosen, so that you may know and believe me and understand that I am he. Before me no god was formed, nor will there be one after me." (Isaiah 43:10, NIV)
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Introduction
In a world filled with distractions, idols, and misplaced allegiances, God asks His people one simple yet profound question: Who do you bear witness of? While many profess their love for God, their lives often reflect worship of people, possessions, or worldly fame instead. This teaching explores the importance of bearing witness of God’s Kingdom and the dangers of idolatry, which robs us of true worship and purpose.
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The Call to Bear Witness of God
God has chosen His people to be witnesses of His Kingdom, declaring His glory and salvation to a world lost in darkness. To bear witness is to reflect God’s character, share His truth, and point others to the salvation available through Jesus Christ.
• Supportive Scripture:
“But you will receive power when the Holy Spirit comes on you; and you will be my witnesses in Jerusalem, and in all Judea and Samaria, and to the ends of the earth.” (Acts 1:8, NIV)
• Bearing witness is an active declaration of God’s goodness and a call to align our lives with His purposes.
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The Dangers of Idolatry
God has always condemned idolatry, and He remains just as angered by it today. Whether in the form of celebrities, material possessions, or worldly achievements, idolatry blinds people to the truth and leads them away from God.
• Supportive Scripture:
“Dear children, keep yourselves from idols.” (1 John 5:21, NIV)
• Idolatry is not merely the worship of physical statues; it includes anything or anyone we prioritize above God.
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God’s Unchanging Standards
The commandments against idolatry are timeless, and God’s expectations for His people have not changed. He desires worship that is directed solely to Him and actions that glorify His name.
• Supportive Scripture:
“You shall have no other gods before me.” (Exodus 20:3, NIV)
• As His chosen people, we are called to reject the temptations of the world and uphold God’s righteous standards.
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The Responsibility to Declare the Kingdom
True followers of Christ are accountable to bear witness of His mercy, grace, and salvation. This responsibility extends beyond personal worship to actively sharing the gospel with others.
• Supportive Scripture:
“Go into all the world and preach the gospel to all creation.” (Mark 16:15, NIV)
• Refusing to declare the truth makes believers guilty of spiritual negligence and disobedience.
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The Power of Faithful Witnesses
God empowers those who faithfully bear witness of Him through His Spirit, manifesting miracles and transforming lives. Bearing witness is not only an act of obedience but also a channel through which God’s glory is revealed.
• Supportive Scripture:
“For I am not ashamed of the gospel, because it is the power of God that brings salvation to everyone who believes.” (Romans 1:16, NIV)
• Witnessing opens doors for others to experience God’s love and redemption.
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Summary
God calls His people to reject idolatry and bear witness of His Kingdom. While the world offers distractions and false gods, believers are entrusted with the truth of the gospel and the responsibility to declare it boldly. Worship belongs solely to God, and faithfulness in bearing witness brings blessings, purpose, and transformation to the lives of others.
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Call to Action
Reflect on your life and ask yourself: Who do you bear witness of? Turn away from idols and align your heart, words, and actions with God’s will. Commit to sharing the gospel with those around you and living as a true reflection of God’s glory.
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Conclusion
Idolatry leads to spiritual blindness, while bearing witness of God opens the door to His blessings and purpose. The world is filled with those seeking hope and salvation, and God has chosen you to be His messenger. Choose this day to bear witness of His Kingdom and reject the false gods that lead to destruction.
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Final Word of Encouragement
Be encouraged to stand firm in your faith and declare the goodness of God boldly.
"Let the redeemed of the Lord tell their story—those he redeemed from the hand of the foe." (Psalm 107:2, NIV)
You are called to be a light in the darkness and a voice of hope to the hopeless. Embrace your role as God’s witness and trust Him to work through you to reach the lost.
