The Power of Testimony

[Amanda]

To me, this phrase is saying that the method chosen to share a particular thing is just as important as the content within that message. I do agree with this statement as a general rule. One example, of course, is the impact that someone’s testimony might have. We are social creatures that crave emotional connection, not just with the Lord, but with each other. Feeling heard and seen and relating to someone’s testimony can change someone’s life. It has changed my life and has helped to squash my unbelief as a former atheist. Another example I think is appropriate is advertising. A company can advertise a perfect product or a spectacular service, but if they choose the wrong way to share it with consumers, then the product or service will automatically be dismissed. An offensive, aggressive, confusing, or irrelevant method of advertising will just put people off, but choosing something (again) relatable or entertaining can draw people in.

I think there can be some danger in prioritizing popular-level literature over statements of faith, but it depends on how this literature is used. The benefit of popular-level literature is that it is more accessible in general and can allow a wider audience to understand a larger breadth of theological ideas. I do think, however, that the oversimplification or generalization of complex theological ideas can lead to the warping or misinterpreting of certain ideas as well. If what we believe becomes dogmatic or unbiblical, that is when the ideas perpetuated by simplified or generalized literature becomes a problem. Ideally, I think that popular level-literature should be used as a resource in addition to formal statements of faith. I think they are an enhancement, but also that one should always verify what is said in this literature with Scriptural truths and/or personal deliberation. It doesn’t have to be a “one or the other” situation, one should not substitute the other, and it is important to use our own discernment, too.