Living As Witnesses Of The Risen Christ (Post Resurrection)

LIVING AS WITNESSES OF THE RISEN CHRIST (Post Resurrection)

By Rev. Samuel Arimoro

Main Text: Acts 1:8 – “But ye shall receive power, after that the Holy Ghost is come upon you: and ye shall be witnesses unto me both in Jerusalem, and in all Judaea, and in Samaria, and unto the uttermost part of the earth.”

Supporting Texts: Matthew 28:18–20; 1 Corinthians 15:3–8; Romans 1:16; John 20:21; 2 Corinthians 5:20

INTRODUCTION:

The resurrection of Jesus Christ is the foundation of the Christian faith, and it demands more than a celebration—it calls for a commission. After Jesus rose from the dead, He did not simply return to heaven; He gave His followers a mandate to testify of His resurrection and make disciples of all nations. Every believer is a living witness of this reality, not just through words, but through lifestyle, conduct, and power.

Living as witnesses of the risen Christ means representing Him in a world that desperately needs proof of His life and power. It’s a call to be ambassadors, carrying the message of hope, forgiveness, and eternal life to every corner of the earth. This calling is not for pastors alone—it is for all who believe in His name.

The world may not see Jesus in person, but they can encounter Him through your testimony, your love, your holiness, and your boldness. The same Spirit that raised Christ from the dead now empowers you to be His witness. This message will show how we are to live daily as effective witnesses of our risen Saviour.

1.    A WITNESS MUST HAVE A GENUINE ENCOUNTER WITH CHRIST

True witnessing begins with a personal experience of Jesus.

a) Knowing Christ Personally

You cannot share what you don’t know—encounter is foundational (Philippians 3:10).

b) Faith in the Risen Lord

Belief in His resurrection is key to salvation and witnessing (Romans 10:9).

c) Transformation as Evidence

A changed life is the loudest testimony (2 Corinthians 5:17).

d) Intimacy Through the Word and Prayer

Daily fellowship fuels your witness (John 15:5).

Biblical Example: Mary Magdalene’s encounter at the tomb (John 20:11–18).

2.    A WITNESS MUST BE EMPOWERED BY THE HOLY SPIRIT

Without the Holy Spirit, our witness lacks power and impact.

a) The Holy Spirit Brings Boldness

Fear is replaced by courage to speak (Acts 4:31).

b) The Holy Spirit Gives Utterance

He helps us speak truth with clarity (Acts 2:4).

c) The Holy Spirit Confirms the Word with Power

Signs and wonders follow true witnesses (Mark 16:20).

d) The Holy Spirit Directs Evangelism

He guides us to divine appointments (Acts 8:29).

Biblical Example: The transformation of Peter on the Day of Pentecost (Acts 2:14–41).

3.     A WITNESS MUST LIVE A CONSISTENT CHRISTIAN LIFE

Our lifestyle is the loudest sermon we preach.

a) Holiness Is a Testimony

A holy life reflects the risen Christ (1 Peter 1:15–16).

b) Integrity Builds Trust

Let your yes be yes and your no be no (Matthew 5:37).

c) Love Shows You Belong to Him

By this shall all men know… (John 13:35).

d) Fruitfulness Validates Your Walk

You shall know them by their fruits (Matthew 7:16).

Biblical Example: The believers in Antioch were first called Christians (Acts 11:26).

4.     A WITNESS MUST BE VOCAL AND INTENTIONAL

We are not called to be silent believers.

a) Declare the Gospel Openly

The gospel must be proclaimed (Romans 1:16).

b) Speak in Season and Out of Season

Be ready always to share your hope (2 Timothy 4:2).

c) Use Every Opportunity

Make the most of every chance to witness (Colossians 4:5–6).

d) Do Not Be Ashamed of Christ

Boldness honours God (Luke 9:26).

Biblical Example: The Samaritan woman ran to testify (John 4:28–30).

5.     A WITNESS MUST MAKE DISCIPLES OF OTHERS

We are not just to preach but to raise others to follow Christ.

a) Teach Others What You Have Received

Freely you have received; freely give (Matthew 10:8).

b) Mentor and Disciple New Believers

Help others grow in the faith (2 Timothy 2:2).

c) Lead by Example

Your life should be a pattern to follow (Philippians 3:17).

d) Reproduce the Life of Christ in Others

Discipleship leads to multiplication (Acts 6:7).

Biblical Example: Paul discipled Timothy and others (2 Timothy 1:2–6).

CONCLUSION:

The call to be a witness of the risen Christ is a sacred responsibility and a glorious privilege. It is not just about speaking; it is about living a life that continually reveals Jesus to a lost world. Your story, your faith, your love, and your consistency preach louder than any sermon.

As we go forth from the celebration of Easter, may we step into the commission it brings. Let your life declare that He lives! May your words and deeds testify of His love, power, and grace. You are not just a Christian—you are His witness.