PODCAST
The Power to Testify
June 1st, 2025
Luke 21:12-19
Jesus paused a discussion about the destruction of the temple and many other signs that would precede His return to talk directly to His closest followers about the hard things they would soon face. They would be the recipients of persecution and hatred. Some would be brought before rulers in trial and thrown into prison. Jesus even foretold, “They will execute some of you” (v. 16).
Yet, the disciples would not find themselves helpless or hopeless. Jesus would give them the wise words needed to testify in the midst of such hardship. Those who were executed would not be forgotten but would experience new life in the resurrection.
The book of Acts is filled with examples of Jesus’ words coming to fruition. I am always drawn to Stephen, a “man full of God’s grace and power” (6:8). When Stephen was brought before the Sanhedrin, “they could not stand up against the wisdom the Spirit gave him as he spoke” (6:10). What they could do, unfortunately, was execute him.
Stephen’s extension of forgiveness to those actively stoning him to death brings me to tears and convicts me over and over. What a powerful testimony that we should emulate!
Author: Miranda Musick
