The Ouse Valley Benefice

2 Peter 1.12-21 - Testimony: Sharing the Undeniable Truth

The recent lectionary reading from the second book of Peter focuses on a testimony - an eyewitness account of something that actually happened. This testimony is part of Peter's story, and critically, we all have testimonies that are part of our story, and the great thing about them is that no one can dispute them. They might try, but you know it is true because no one can take your story away from you.

For example, when I recently shared my story at a curry evening in Littleport, some people may have been unsure. Was what I talked about a coincidence or a God-incidence? Perhaps some thought it was a story elaborated on for the occasion. But the fact remains that it was a true testimony of what actually happened. Peter faced the same challenges, which is why he insisted his account of the Transfiguration was not a 'cleverly devised story' but an eyewitness account of what he saw and heard.

We live in a world saturated with fake news, where social media constantly adds to the reprogramming of our minds. This reality makes it even more essential that we stick to the truth, the whole truth, and nothing but the truth in the stories and testimonies we share. If we try to embellish them or add things just to make them sound better, we risk getting caught out. And if someone spots one falsehood, how can we assure them the rest of the story is true? Peter pushed back on those who wanted to turn the Gospel into a myth by simply stating, ‘I saw and I heard. This is the account of what happened on that day’.

I want to encourage you to do the same. Call it mission or evangelism if you like, but if you call it ‘Telling your story,’ it becomes so much easier. All you are doing is sharing your experience of God and your life as a Christian - and no one can take that away from you. This is far more accessible than you might think; it doesn't require you to preach or have a degree in theology. Some of the most powerful testimonies can be shared in a mere 60 seconds - a simple, focused, one-minute story about a specific moment when God met you. If you are interested in exploring this further or would value a hands-on workshop to equip you with the skills to confidently share your godly stories, then please let me know.

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