As we continue our study of the Gospel of John, we pick up at verse 17 of Chapter 12. The Apostle John, under the inspiration of the Holy Spirit, writes:
“Now the crowd that was with Him when He called Lazarus from the tomb and raised him from the dead continued to spread the word. Many people, because they had heard that He had performed this sign, went out to meet Him. So the Pharisees said to one another, ‘See this is getting us nowhere. Look how the whole world has gone after Him.
Now there were some Greeks among those who went up to worship at the festival. They came to Philip who was from Bethsaida in Galilee, with a request. ‘Sir’ they said, ‘We would like to see Jesus.” (John 12: 17-21)
As we prepare to move into the new year, let us ask ourselves the question: If someone wanted to see, that is get acquainted with, and just talk to Jesus because of some wonderful things they have heard about Him, would they know to come to us? Would they know by our actions, and by our words, that we personally know Jesus? Would our reputation be that we are known as a Christian – a follower of Christ? Do we have the words that we would like to say about Him at the tip of our tongue? Do we have a 30 second testimony of our relationship with Him that we can share that would open their hearts to a discussion that would help them know Jesus, and want to receive Him into their hearts?
Some people are shy, and introducing others is difficult for them. So it is with introducing others to Christ Jesus.
If that is the case for you, make one of your New Year’s resolutions be to become comfortable introducing Christ as Lord, and Savior. I recommend you write out your short testimony, and practice it with a Brother or Sister in the Lord until you are ready when the Lord opens the door for that. When someone comes to you to find out more about Jesus, be ready to let them know how knowing him can change life in this world, and for all eternity.
HAPPY NEW YEAR, GOD’S BELOVEDS! May this be a Year of telling the Good News in words and in the way we live it. You are greatly and unconditionally Loved. Pass it on.