Elder Linder

Part 6 of “The Devoted Life: Exploring the Path of Discipleship”

In our exploration of discipleship this week, we’ve examined what it means to be a disciple of Christ, discussed the cost of discipleship, learned about walking by faith, considered how to face opposition, and explored the power of ministering to others. Today, we’ll focus on one of the most sacred aspects of discipleship: sharing our testimony of Jesus Christ.

The Apostle Peter counseled, “Be ready always to give an answer to every man that asketh you a reason of the hope that is in you” (1 Peter 3:15). Notice he doesn’t say “be ready sometimes” or “if you feel particularly spiritual.” Like all aspects of discipleship we’ve discussed this week, bearing testimony is meant to be a constant readiness, a natural overflow of our relationship with Christ.

What strikes me most about Peter’s counsel is the focus on hope. Our testimonies aren’t just about sharing facts or doctrines—they’re about sharing the hope that comes from knowing Jesus Christ. This reminds me of Alma’s beautiful description of how testimony grows, comparing it to a seed that, when nourished, begins to “enlighten your understanding” and “enlarge your soul” (Alma 32:28).

The power of testimony lies not in eloquent words or dramatic experiences, but in its authenticity. When we share our genuine experiences with the Savior, we invite others to “come and see” (John 1:39) for themselves. This invitation—whether extended through formal testimony bearing or simple conversations about our faith—allows others to glimpse how the gospel works in real lives, in real situations, with real challenges.

I’ve witnessed this principle in my own life. When I chose to join The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, it wasn’t just the doctrines that moved me—it was also the sincere testimonies of members who shared how the gospel had changed their lives. Their words, simple yet profound, helped me recognize the Spirit’s witness of truth.

The Lord has promised that when we open our mouths to share our testimony, they will be filled (D&C 33:8). This promise echoes His words to Moses, who worried about his inadequate speaking abilities: “Who hath made man’s mouth?… Now therefore go, and I will be with thy mouth, and teach thee what thou shalt say” (Exodus 4:11-12).

Like Moses, many of us hesitate to share our testimonies because we feel inadequate or unsure of our words. Perhaps we worry our testimonies aren’t strong enough, or we’re still working through our own questions. But remember what we learned about the widow’s mite and the Brother of Jared’s stones—the Lord can magnify our smallest offerings. Even a testimony that feels small or simple to us might be exactly what someone else needs to hear.

Remember, testimony bearing isn’t about perfect knowledge or dramatic spiritual experiences—it’s about sharing your authentic journey with Christ. As you do so, you’ll discover what Alma taught: “when ye shall feel these swelling motions, ye will begin to say within yourselves—It must needs be that this is a good seed, or that the word is good, for it beginneth to enlarge my soul; yea, it beginneth to enlighten my understanding” (Alma 32:28).

I testify that as we share our witness of Christ, both the speaker and the listener are blessed. The Lord has promised, “he that receiveth light, and continueth in God, receiveth more light” (D&C 50:24). As we share our light with others, our own testimony grows brighter, and we help fulfill the prophetic call to flood the earth with testimonies of Jesus Christ.