The Unshakable Foundation of Faith: God's Testimony to His Son

TEXT: 1 John 5:6-13

In a world filled with skepticism and doubt, how can we be certain of our faith? Many argue that religious experiences are purely subjective, dismissing them as psychological phenomena with no bearing on universal truth. But is there a more solid foundation for our beliefs?

The answer lies in understanding the powerful testimony God Himself has given about His Son, Jesus Christ. This divine witness provides an unshakable basis for our faith, one that goes far beyond personal experiences or feelings.

At the heart of this testimony are three key witnesses: water, blood, and the Spirit. These aren't arbitrary symbols, but profound markers of Christ's earthly ministry:

1. Water: This represents Jesus' baptism, the beginning of His public ministry. At this pivotal moment, the heavens opened, the Spirit descended like a dove, and the Father's voice thundered, "This is My beloved Son in whom I am well-pleased." (Matthew 3:17)

2. Blood: Symbolizing Christ's sacrificial death on the cross. Even in that dark hour, creation itself bore witness – the sky darkened, the earth quaked, and the temple veil was torn from top to bottom. (Matthew 27:51-53)

3. The Spirit: The Holy Spirit's ongoing testimony to the truth of who Jesus is, from His baptism through His ministry, death, resurrection, and the birth of the early church.

These three witnesses align perfectly, providing a cohesive and powerful declaration of Jesus' identity as the Son of God. This isn't based on secret knowledge or esoteric teachings, but on historical events and the consistent witness of God Himself.

Why is this threefold testimony so significant? In both Jewish tradition and biblical law, matters of great importance required the confirmation of two or three witnesses. We see this principle echoed throughout Scripture:

• "One witness shall not rise up against a man for any iniquity, or for any sin, in any sin that he sinneth: at the mouth of two witnesses, or at the mouth of three witnesses, shall the matter be established." (Deuteronomy 19:15)

• Jesus affirmed this in matters of church discipline: "But if he will not hear thee, then take with thee one or two more, that in the mouth of two or three witnesses every word may be established.'" (Matthew 18:16)

• The Apostle Paul applied this principle when addressing issues in the Corinthian church: "This will be my third visit to you. 'Every matter must be established by the testimony of two or three witnesses.'" (2 Corinthians 13:1)

God, in His wisdom, provides not just one, but three clear witnesses to the identity and mission of His Son. This testimony stands in stark contrast to the shifting sands of human opinion or the latest philosophical trends.

So, what does this mean for us today?

1. We can have confidence in our faith. It's not based on subjective experiences alone, but on the rock-solid testimony of God Himself. When doubts creep in, we can return to these unchanging truths.

2. We must take God's testimony seriously. To reject or disbelieve this witness is, in essence, to call God a liar. It's not a light matter, but one with eternal consequences.

3. Believing this testimony brings tremendous blessings:

   • An inner witness of the Spirit, confirming these truths in our hearts

   • The gift of eternal life – not just unending existence, but sharing in the very life of God

   • Assurance of our salvation – we can know, not just hope, that we have eternal life

The implications are profound. Christianity isn't about following a set of rules or adhering to a philosophy. It's about a person – Jesus Christ. As one theologian put it, "Christianity is Christ!" He is the focal point of God's testimony and the source of all spiritual blessings.

This brings us to the most crucial question any of us will ever face: "Who do you say that I am?" (Matthew 16:15) It's the same question Jesus posed to His disciples, and our answer has eternal significance. Do we accept God's testimony about His Son, or do we fashion a Jesus of our own making?

Embracing this divine witness doesn't mean blind faith. Rather, it's a reasonable response to the overwhelming evidence God has provided. We trust human testimony every day – when we deposit money in a bank, take medication, or even cross a street. How much more should we trust the testimony of the eternal, all-knowing God?

For those who believe, this testimony becomes a wellspring of assurance and hope. We have a foundation that can weather the storms of doubt, the attacks of skeptics, and the ever-changing landscape of human opinion. Our faith isn't built on shifting sand, but on the unchanging word of God concerning His Son.

However, this assurance isn't meant to make us complacent. True faith in Christ will inevitably produce fruit in our lives:

• A growing belief in the truth about Jesus

• Increasing obedience to God's commands

• A deepening love for God and others

These aren't the source of our salvation, but rather the evidence of its reality in our lives.

As we reflect on God's powerful testimony to His Son, let's allow it to shape our thinking and transform our lives. May we stand firm on this unshakable foundation, growing in our knowledge of Christ and sharing this life-changing truth with a world in desperate need of hope.

For those still wrestling with doubt or uncertainty, take heart. The invitation remains open to examine God's testimony for yourself. Don't let this be a matter of indifference or casual consideration. Nothing is more important than ensuring you have a right relationship with the One who offers eternal life.

In a world of competing voices and conflicting claims, we have access to the ultimate witness – God's own testimony about His Son. May we receive it with open hearts, believe it with unwavering faith, and live in the light of its transforming truth.

Pastor Aaron Butts