For we preach not ourselves, but Christ Jesus the Lord; … (2 Corinthians 4:5)

Confessing (or witnessing) Christ to others is a divine privilege that excels in excellence. The possession and subsequent communication of the knowledge of the glory of God in the face of Jesus Christ is a mercy not worthy of redeemed man. The King humbles Himself to manifest His power through weak, cheap, earthen vessels. The treasure is incomparable to our vessel. Should not every believer exalt in confession when such an honor is afforded unto men?

Christian witness and proclamation takes on two distinct venues depending on the condition of a man’s soul. Our confession is the ministration of life (2 Corinthians 3:8, 9, 18). To the lost, a genuine proclamation of the light of His glory in Christ aims for a birth, not merely a decision of their natural will. The root of a man’s “will” is his nature. The witness of the light of the glorious gospel of Christ is the means of divine faith (Romans 10:17) and spiritual rebirth (I Peter 1:23). In rebirth, man believes. In faith, man is reborn. Birth and belief are instantaneous and contemporaneous. It is the bold, joyful exaltation of the incorruptible glory of Christ that is man’s only hope of affecting this rebirth. How can we be silent in light of this divine treasure for the sons of men?

For a believer, the ministration of the Word of life occurs in connection with his new nature. The proclamation and confession of Christ aims for transformation. The issue, again, is not a mere change of a man’s will. Christ Jesus the Lord is witnessed. A believer is sanctified by these truths (John 17:17). Illumined truth united with a divine nature gives rise to transformation (2 Corinthians 3:18). How can we be silent in light of this divine transformation into the image of Jesus Christ among believers?

Brethren, the Lord treasured the church with Himself and His Word. Do not lose the marvel of His witness and word. Just think … through your confession of the glories of Christ, a man dead in trespasses and sins can be divinely born of God. Just think … through your witness of the glories of Christ, a believer can be a partaker of the divine nature.