Devotional for the Week — 5 January 2009

Devotional for the week – 5 January 2009

Sermon Title: Are You A Martyr?
Scripture Text: John 1: 6-8, 19-28

There were many martyrs in the bible and we often understand the word “martyr” to refer to one who dies for Christ. However, the word “martyr” in Greek really means “witness” especially in a legal setting. In the bible, many witnesses paid for their beliefs in blood as they were killed for their faith. This may have led many to misunderstand that only people who die for Christ are martyrs. We are all called to be witnesses for Christ, whatever the circumstance.

In the book of John, we learn of the attributes of one who is to be a witness, a martyr.

Firstly, it is a divine calling (John1:6). It is not by default that one is a martyr. It is a commissioning by God. God is in effect saying “I know you and I am sending you”. You are not God’s second choice. Therefore, do not belittle your calling. You may be the only Christian in your workplace or in your family. This may be God’s way of calling you to witness for Him in that setting, the channel through which many may be saved. Do not be afraid. See this as an opportunity for service. Where have you been placed? Where God calls, He will equip.

Secondly, a Martyr’s message is God centered. John the Baptist knew what his role was. He told the people that his role was to lead others to Christ, to prepare the people for the coming of Christ. John was humble. He knew that it was not about him but about Christ. In Jesus’ time, a rabbi had disciples and the disciples would help the rabbi with many things but a rabbi would not allow his disciples to untie his shoe laces. That was reserved for the lowest slave. John knew his position before God because John made clear that he was not even worthy to untie Jesus’ laces. How do you share Christ? Are you like John who said that Jesus must increase while he (John) must decrease? Or are you more concerned about your reputation and how good you look before man?

Lastly, a martyr’s goal is to bring others to the faith (John 1:7). Some may not have believed in John the Baptist’s message but that was because of their own hardness of heart. However, John tried. He was faithful to the task he was given by God which was to prepare the people for Christ. John was a herald. A herald goes before a king to announce the arrival of the king. This also authenticates the validity of the king. What is your compelling or consuming passion? A food lover will be able to tell you all about food and will often talk about food. How would people describe you? Would they say that you loved God and that through you many came to know the Lord?

In summary, to some, you may be the only channel to Christ. Think of your testimony as a martyr, a witness for Christ. Do not take this calling lightly.

Prayer Response:

Our Father in heaven, we pray that you will help us live up to our high calling as witnesses for you. Give us courage to speak boldly for you and to know our standing before you. In Jesus’ name we pray, Amen.

Devotional based on a message by Rev Lim Jen Huat

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