August - Go Ye Therefore...

There's a story about a conversation between two strangers who met while traveling. After a non-believer saw a believer pull out a Bible and start reading it, the two started a discussion about religion and faith. By the end of the trip, the two were friends and as the non-believer left he turned to the believer and said, "By the way, the best part of your argument isn't what you think Jesus can do for me. It's what He's done for you." In other words, the believer's personal testimony was his most powerful testimony.

Many times Christians may be afraid, reluctant or timid to share their faith because they don't think they have enough "Bible knowledge," or they don't feel qualified. But, advertisers and marketers can tell you the power and effectiveness of personal testimonies in selling a product or service. Successful companies like Amazon and Ebay use personal testimonials as a primary marketing tool all the time.

The Bible commands each of us to 'go and make disciples,' and we can apply some marketing tips to help us do this. For example:

Become brand loyal - You can't recommend a product that you've never tried. How great is your faith? Do you have an imitate relationship with Christ? And, can you truly say, "He's Your Friend?"

Be credible - This doesn't mean impressing others with the number of Bible verses you have memorized or how fervently you pray. On the one hand you're witnessing to someone about what God has done in your life, and on the other hand, you're not living your life in a godly manner. Be a credible witness for God.

Be honest (transparent) - Sometimes this is the hardest thing for us to do. We walk around wearing masks; afraid to let people see who we really are, what we've been through and how we got where we are. When non-believers understand that you too are a sinner, saved by grace, and that you are not as perfect as you appear, they are more open to receive your testimony.

Now, go ye therefore, in peace and power!

Peace & Power,
Pastor Melvin O. Marriner