This week, we want to get you prepared for using a translator and sharing your testimony as the opportunity arises. Here are some helpful tips for you!
USING A TRANSLATOR:
1. Speak loudly (but not yelling) and slowly so you can be heard.
2. Think your ideas through ahead of time so you can say them in short, simple sentences.
3. Stop after every couple of sentences to allow your translator time to translate.
4. If your translator gets stuck and doesn’t know the word for something that you are trying to say, it’s often best to try and reword your sentence. If he/she still doesn’t understand, it’s good to move on in the conversation to not embarrass your translator.
5. Avoid using slang, idioms, or illustrations which are not found in the local culture.
THE DOs AND DON'Ts OF A PERSONAL TESTIMONY:
DO
o Write out your testimony
- Ask the Lord to give you wisdom and guidance as you write (James 1:5-6).
o Choose a theme
- One area of your life that Christ has changed. (i.e. peace, freedom, victory over sin, etc.)
o Be creative
- Remember, you are telling a story, so you want to be captivating.
o Follow a three-point outline
- Life before knowing Christ (What was missing?)
- What you came to know about Christ (Be specific.)
- Who God is and how he has changed you
o Practice it! Memorize it! Get feedback!
DON’T
o Try and wing it
o Use “churchy” words such as “saved,” “righteous,” “walk with God,” without explaining.
- Your audience may feel uncomfortable if they don’t know what these words mean
o Be too wordy or vague
o Make your testimony all about you
- We are testifying about the truth of Jesus Christ
o Talk about personal issues
- Consult with your team leaders before sharing specific details about your past sin struggles.
We are so excited to hear how God uses you on your trip! We know that sharing your testimony in front of a group like this can be intimating. We want to encourage you to start practicing it now. It really will help you feel more comfortable. If you have questions about your testimony, please don't hesitate to let us know.
