Do you ever feel like you can’t open your mouth without getting into trouble? You try to speak the truth, but somehow it lands wrong, and suddenly you’re the problem. Sometimes standing for what’s right doesn’t make you popular—it just makes you a target. Paul knew that feeling well. Today, as we continue in Acts 22, we are going to see how Paul’s words got him in trouble over and over, and yet he continued to speak the truth. 

Six Elements of a Testimony

1. Connection – Start by building a bridge. Paul began with respect and common ground (“Brethren and fathers…”); approach people in a way that invites listening, not resistance.

2. Before Christ – Briefly describe who you were. Share what shaped your life or thinking before Jesus—enough to give context, not to glorify the past.

3. Sin – Acknowledge your need for grace. Be honest about the heart issues that separated you from God—whether outward rebellion or inward pride and self-reliance.

4. Encounter – Tell how Jesus met you. Describe the moment or season when Christ confronted your heart and opened your eyes to who He is.

5. Conversion – Explain how you responded. Share the turning point—your surrender, repentance, or prayer of faith—when you trusted Jesus personally.

6. Commission – Show how your life changed and what God called you to do.