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Imagine life as a courtroom. The various roles are played by different individuals: prosecutors, defense lawyers, witnesses, judges, juries, and defendants. Each role is distinct and essential to the judicial process. As Christians, we are only called to one role. Too often we play the wrong role. Find out which role is ours to play in today’s message.
It seems ever since the Perry Mason show, we have been enthralled with televised courtroom drama. Shows like Law and Order, Matlock, and Bull, were all big successes. Of course, real life cases like the O. J. Simpson trial with it famous line “If it doesn’t fit, you must acquit,” and more recently the Murdaugh trial have garnered worldwide viewership. Yes, we all know the various players in the courtroom, but do we know our role?
A courtroom serves as a powerful illustration of our life as Christians. We often find ourselves assuming roles that are not ours to play. We may act as prosecutors, defense lawyers, judges, or juries, but the role we are truly called to fulfill is that of a witness.
I must admit that far too often I have taken on the wrong role. Have you ever done that? We are only meant to be the witness. We must tell the story of what Jesus has done for us. At the core of Broken Door Ministries is the belief that all people are better off when they are open, honest and vulnerable. When we admit our sins, wounds and faults, it is not for the purpose of bringing attention to our flaws and pains, but rather to bring attention and glory to the One who saves us.
A witness in a courtroom is someone who provides testimony based on what they have seen, heard, or experienced. They do not pass judgment, argue the case, or determine the outcome. Their sole responsibility is to share their personal account truthfully and accurately. In the Christian context, being a witness means sharing the transformative work of Christ in our lives. It involves telling others about the grace, love, and redemption we have experienced through our relationship with Him.
With the drama of a televised court case, the DNA of our sins becomes the overwhelming evidence of our guilt. God the Father, a just and fair judge, rightfully sentences us to death. Then suddenly Jesus, a righteous man without sin, stands up in the courtroom and says, “Your Honor, please allow me to take on this man’s death sentence.” The judge, being merciful and forgiving, agrees to permit Jesus to be put to death, and He sets us free. The essence of being a witness is to testify to this fundamental reality.
In the courtroom, a witness provides testimony based on personal experience, recounting events as they unfolded. Similarly, we are called to share our personal testimonies of faith, illustrating how Christ has impacted our lives. This act of witnessing is not merely about recounting facts; it is about conveying the profound love and mercy that God has shown. Joy in life comes from believing and experiencing that the Lord is faithful, and that with Him, we can walk as disciples and witnesses of God’s love.
Too often, we fall into the trap of acting as prosecutors or defense lawyers. As prosecutors, we may judge and condemn others, pointing out their faults and shortcomings. This is not our role. Jesus Himself warned against judging others, reminding us that we too are flawed and in need of grace (Matthew 7:1-5). Our task is not to convict others of their sins but to share the good news of forgiveness and salvation.
On the other hand, sometimes we try to take on the role of defense lawyers, feeling the need to justify or defend our faith aggressively. While it is important to be prepared to give an answer for our hope (1 Peter 3:15), our primary focus should be on sharing our personal testimony rather than engaging in heated debates. Our lives and actions should speak louder than our arguments, demonstrating the love and truth of Christ.
The roles of judge and jury are also not ours to assume. God alone is the righteous judge (James 4:12). He knows the hearts and minds of individuals and is the only one qualified to pass judgment. When we take on the role of judge, we risk becoming self-righteous and hypocritical. Similarly, as a jury, we are not called to determine the guilt or innocence of others. Our responsibility is to love and serve others, leaving the judgment to God.
Ultimately, the call to witness is a call to love. Jesus emphasized that love is the hallmark of His disciples, stating, “By this all men will know that you are my disciples, if you have love for one another” (John 13:35). This love is not passive; it is an active engagement with the world, a commitment to serve others, and a dedication to living out the Gospel in everyday life. By living out our faith authentically, we become credible witnesses to the transformative power of the gospel.
A courtroom can serve as a powerful reminder of our true calling as Christians. We are not called to be prosecutors, defense lawyers, judges, or juries. Our role is to be witnesses, sharing the incredible work Christ has done in our lives. By focusing on our personal testimony and living out our faith, we can effectively bear witness to the love and grace of our Savior. Let us embrace this role with humility and dedication, trusting that God will use our stories to touch the hearts of others.
Heavenly Father, grant me the strength of conviction and courage to be an effective witness to the saving power of Your Son Jesus Christ! Never allow me to shy away from telling others how He has saved me. Make my life a witness to your mercy and forgiveness. Amen!
AMDG
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Thanks, Brian! An excellent analogy and reminder.