Reply To: Christian Character Discussion Board 1

[Ben]

“Good works that stem out of a relationship with Christ Jesus are witnesses for Jesus.” The following, validates this statement:
The word witness in the Greek is the word martureo which means to be a witness, i.e. testify (literally or figuratively):–charge, give (evidence), bear record, have (obtain, of) good (honest) report, be well reported of, testify, give (have) testimony, (be, bear, give, obtain) witness. The word from the dictionary means, evidence, proof.

So a witness, is a proof provider. Therefore, a witness for Christ Jesus is someone or anything that reveals Christ- his nature, his testimony, his message and his power. These works that stem from a relationship with Christ Jesus are termed firstly, “good works” which means that there are bad works. But for a work to be termed good, means it’s acceptable by God and not just by men. (Philippians 2:13, 2 Corinthians 3:18).

1. Sharing the Gospel: a good work that serves as a witness for Christ Jesus to men. The good work of preaching the gospel of Christ reveals to the sinner the unconditional love of God (God as love) and not a judgmental God or a sadist who is out to send men to hell at the slightest provocation. ( John 3:16-18, Romans 5:6-9). When we preach or share the Gospel around and to sinners, we give proof of the love of God and the grace of God that is available unto them in Christ Jesus. So that they can be changed by the same love and grace (Titus 2:11, 2 Corinthians 5:17).

2. Walking in the light: a good work that bears witness for Jesus Christ. Having no part in works of darkness will reveal Christ to men. Living an exemplary life wherever one finds themselves will communicate the testimony and the character of Christ Jesus. ( Ephesians 5:8-11, 1 Timothy 4:12, 2 Corinthians 3:2-3).

3. Walking in love: a good work that bears witness for Christ Jesus. In a world filled with people more interested in themselves and their self-interests, walking in agape love will impact the lives of others in godly ways and will reveal who Jesus really is to them. They begin to see Jesus not only in the message we preach but also in our actions and attitude towards people. (1 John 3:16-18)

4. Walking in the Spirit: a good work that bears witness for Christ Jesus. When we walk in the Spirit, we will be sensitive to take steps and carry out inspired actions that will end up blessing the lives of people; even handling terrible situations which might be going on in their lives. This good work, will bring Christ and his power to a reality in the lives of those who will put faith in him. (Acts 4:13, Acts 5:12-14, Romans 8:14).

In summary, good works that are as a result of the believer’s relationship with Jesus will bring about the revelation of the character of Christ in them (men will surely confirm that they have Christ in them), bring glory to God with their lives and turn men from death to life.