Completing the Commission

Introduction

It is easy to see our own inadequacy in witnessing for Jesus, and excuse ourselves from the commission God has given us. This is the “Let George do it” syndrome. Each Christian has the capacity and power of God to complete their commission. We must be obedient to God.

Paul continued to preach Jesus Christ while he waited for his judgment before Caesar Nero.

Thesis: We can witness for Jesus Christ while we wait for the judgment of God.

This text suggest three ways we can witness for Jesus.

We Can Witness for Jesus through Hospitality, vv. 17-25

A. Exegesis

1. Paul invited his Jewish brothers to his home and witnessed.
2. Some believed; others did not. However, Paul was faithful.
3. When the unbelievers continued to refuse to believe, Paul witnessed to others.

B. Illustration

Christians can witness to their lost friends by hosting a Super Bowl party. At half-time, they put in a video that features Christian athletes who give their testimonies.

C. Application

1.  Many churches now have Welcome Wagon visitation teams to welcome new neighbors with a special packet and invitation to come to church.
2. Two Christian families form a Supper Club and invite their lost friends over for dinner and witness to them.
3. Regular visitation by Christians tells the community that we love them and that we are friendly.

We Can Witness for Jesus Boldly, v. 31

A. Exegesis

1. Definition of “boldly” = “fearless, confident”
2. Some define “boldly” as “presumptuous or arrogant and hateful.”
3. Peter defines the boldness that he prayed for in Acts 4:29, see 1 Peter 3:15.

B. Illustration–>Boldness-vs-Beating around the Bush

C. Application

1. We can be confident in our witness if we are right with God.
2. We can be confident in our witness because God will accomplish His will no matter how badly we goof it up.
3. We can become more confident in our witness by witnessing.

We Can Witness for Jesus Without Hindrance or Excuse, v. 31

A. Exegesis

1. Paul was a trustee prisoner. He had freedom of movement within limits–“his rented house.”
2. Paul was shackled, but Paul’s witness was not restrained.

B. Illustration

A farmer asked his neighbor if he might borrow a rope.

“Sorry,” said the neighbor, “I’m using the rope to tie up my milk.”

“Milk?” exclaimed the farmer. “Rope can’t tie up milk.”

“I know,” replied the neighbor, “but when a man doesn’t want to do something, one reason is as good as another.”

C. Application

1. We can witness for Jesus in our sickness.
2. We can witness for Jesus in our inadequacy.
3. We can witness for Jesus in our tongue-tied state.

Conclusion

Philemon 6: “I pray that you may be active in sharing your faith so that you will have a full understanding of every good thing we have in Christ.”

Paul continued the work of his commission as a soldier of Christ through all kinds of trouble and hardships. Ever since his conversion on the Damascus Road, he started the race that Christ commissioned him to run. While in prison at Rome, Paul wrote these words to Timothy, see 2 Timothy 4:7-13.

When we stand before the judgment seat of God, will we have finished the race Christ commanded us to run? Will we have accomplished the mission Christ has given us?

Hebrews 12:1-3

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