The Power of Story
Growing up I remember watching the old show Matlock with my grandparents. Based on the story of a defense attorney played by American icon Andy Griffith, every episode gave the story of a “who done it” that inevitably took twists and turns until the truth was exposed.
What I remember about these shows is thinking, “He’s guilty! She did it!” until a pivotal moment happened. A witness got on the stand and told their story. The witness would reveal what they saw, what they heard, and what they experienced. Suddenly, the case was solved. There was no denying that witness’s testimony.
The power of testimony and story is also undeniable in our mission to make disciples and fulfill the great commission. Jesus made it plain and clear in Revelation 12:11, “They triumphed over (Satan) by the blood of the Lamb and by the word of their testimony….” The blood of the Lamb was already accomplished on the cross. That part of the victory is complete! Now it is up to us to share the story.
But there’s good news!
According to Jesus, because of what He already accomplished on the cross, all it takes to defeat the enemy and fulfill the mission is to then tell the story of what the blood of the Lamb has accomplished in our lives. Just like an episode of Matlock, but even more so, there is no denying the story of what you or I have experienced in our lives. Someone may debate my theology or apologetics, but they can’t deny my experience. I’ve seen it. I’ve felt it. I’ve lived it.
The same is true about the movement of God among our family of churches. Telling and celebrating the story of what God has done and is doing serves to glorify God and encourage others. When I hear the story of what God is doing in another church or another region, I often find myself learning, growing, and being emboldened to pursue what God can do in my church and region, too.
That’s why we want to constantly tell the story of what God is doing in your life, ministry, and church. Any time you have evidence of the work of God through your ministry, please send the photos, videos, and stories to president@mcusa.org. I want to personally celebrate with you, and we want to fan the flame of God’s movement across the nation!
Furthermore, we will be focusing on this at our General Conference in just a couple of months at the SHIFT National Conference in July. We will tell the stories of what God is doing throughout the denomination and on the mission field, while hearing the stories of what God is doing through other innovative ministries across the greater Church. Register now at mcusa.org, and don’t miss this chance to be part of us joining together to overcome the enemy thanks to the blood of the Lamb and the word of our testimonies.
