And you also must testify, for you have been with me from the beginning.
Who is Jesus talking to? What does he mean by “testify?” Why does he want them to testify?
Jesus is talking to his inner circle of disciples. The circle was purged of the devil when Judas left. The night is late. They have eaten the Passover meal and Jesus has washed their feet. Jesus has been preparing them for what is to come. In yesterday’s verse, he tells them that they will receive the Spirit of truth and that this spirit will testify about Jesus. Now he tells them that they must testify as well.
This concept of giving testimony is worth considering. When one testifies in court, they are serving as evidence. The person giving testimony becomes evidence in the case. This is much different than simply talking about something that happened, or telling a story. There is a weight on the one who gives testimony. It is the burden of truth. This is why a person’s character is so important when it comes to determining what is true. A person who cannot be trusted with the truth gives false evidence or testimony. The person who is trustworthy gives reliable testimony. Whether we believe a person or not is itself a testimony on the character of the person we are listening to.
When Jesus tells his disciples that they must testify, he is also telling them that they must be worthy of being believed. He does not expect them to have the power to do this on their own. He knows that they will continue to need Him. And so he promises to send them the Advocate, the Holy Spirit. When they testify, they must not be afraid. There can be no backing down. They are not allowed to give false testimony.
They have been with Jesus from the beginning of his ministry. They know who and what He is. They have seen what he has done and listened to his words. Now has come the time for them to testify to what they have seen and heard.
Let’s Discuss: Have you ever given evidence in court? What is different about giving testimony?
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