And you shall be my witnesses
His Holiness Pope Shenouda III speaks about the divine call for every believer to be a witness to Christ—not only by words but by life and conduct. The true Christian does not stop at knowing God but strives to make others know Him through love, service, and good example.
🔹 Witness through life
The first and most important type of witnessing is through personal life. A believer’s actions, words, and good deeds reveal God’s image in his heart. People glorify God when they see the light in believers’ lives, saying: “Truly, these are the children of God.”
🔹 Witness within the home
The Pope emphasizes that witnessing begins at home; one who cannot bring his family to Christ cannot affect strangers. Parents must be examples for their children in faith, love, and prayer. The verse “As for me and my house, we will serve the Lord” is a model of Christian family life.
🔹 Witness through kind words
A believer also witnesses through his words, not by rebuke or pride, but with gentleness and humility. A kind word opens hearts and brings people closer to God. Even visiting a sick person or helping someone in need can be an opportunity to witness to the love of Christ.
🔹 Witness in society and church
Every Christian is called to be an example in his surroundings—in work, school, or church service—and to be a source of blessing and joy for others. Service is not limited to priests and servants; it is the mission of every believer.
🔹 Fruits of witnessing
Those who witness for Christ grow spiritually and in knowledge, filled with joy and love. God uses the faithful witness and grants him the power of the Holy Spirit to work with Him in saving souls, as Christ promised: “You shall receive power when the Holy Spirit has come upon you, and you shall be My witnesses.”
🔹 Spiritual message
The conclusion is that Christian life is not merely good behavior but a message of love and a living testimony to Christ everywhere and at all times. The believer is called to be a fruitful branch in the vine, spreading God’s light through his deeds, words, and presence in the world.
For better translation support, please contact the center.
