"My manner of life from my youth, which was spent from the beginning among my own nation at Jerusalem, all the Jews know. They knew me from the first, if they were willing to testify, that according to the strictest sect of our religion I lived a Pharisee. And now I stand and am judged for the hope of the promise made by God to our fathers. To this promise our twelve tribes, earnestly serving God night and day, hope to attain. For this hope's sake, King Agrippa, I am accused by the Jews. Acts 26:4-7
After addressing Agrippa ever so respectfully, Paul began his message with a bit of biographical background. We Christians refer to this as giving “our testimony.”
Our testimonies are an important part of what we have to say about Jesus. But our testimonies are often devoid of the gospel itself. The gospel is the most important part of what we have to say about Jesus. It is the gospel that is “the power of God to salvation,” not our testimonies. Our story of what Jesus has done in and for us is important for two reasons, however.
First, it is a bridge to gain a hearing. People may not be eager to hear about the gospel, but they are more likely to hear about “something really important” to you, espeically if they know you. Of course if you only tell them your story without including the gospel, your story is of no spiritual avail. So incorprate the gospel into your story by saying something like this:
“It was at that time that I understood that I am a sinner and need to have my sins forgiven. And I understood that trusting in Jesus who died on the cross to pay for my sins is the only way to be forgiven. Does that make sense to you?”
Second, our testimonies validate the impact of Christ and the gospel. By sharing your testimony when speaking about Christ, the gospel becomes more than religious facts. Christ and the gospel become personal and real. People with whom we are speaking may not believe, but they cannot refute what happened to you!
So, tell your story about coming to Christ, but be sure to include the gospel!