Dictionary of Bible Themes Christian witnessing is made effective through the empowering, strengthening and guiding of the Holy Spirit. Witnessing is an aspect of spiritual warfare, and believers need supernatural aid to face Satan's opposition. Acts 5:31-32The Holy Spirit supports believers in witnessing See also John 15:26-27Acts 1:8 The Holy Spirit empowers effective witness 1 Corinthians 2:1-5See also Luke 4:14-19; 24:48-491 Thessalonians 1:5 Hebrews 2:3-4 He confirms the testimony of believers John 16:7-11He convinces people of their need John 3:5-8He brings people to new birth Acts 8:39-40The Holy Spirit guides believers in witnessing See also Acts 8:29-35; 16:6-7Revelation 12:11 Witnessing and spiritual warfare See also Ephesians 6:15-17Revelation 1:9 Witnessing and persecution See also Witnessing results in persecution Acts 4:17; 5:40; 7:54-60Acts 22:22-25 Ephesians 6:19-20 Stephen's witnessing leads him to become the first Christian martyr. The English word "martyr" comes from the Greek word for "witness" Colossians 4:3-42 Timothy 1:8 Revelation 2:12-13; 6:9; 17:6 Matthew 10:18-20 Supernatural help to face persecution Acts 7:55pp Mk 13:9-11 See also pp Lk 21:12-15 Acts 5:18-19; 18:9-10Acts 8:1-5 Philippians 1:12-14 Witness is promoted by persecution See also 2372 Christ, victory3035 Holy Spirit, presence of 3233 Holy Spirit & sanctification 3251 Holy Spirit, filling with 3266 Holy Spirit in creation 3296 Holy Spirit in the world 4122 Satan, tempter 5566 suffering, encouragements in 8450 martyrdom 8482 spiritual warfare 8794 persecution |
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