One of the most common things Mormons do is “bear their testimony.” It is a short statement stating they know certain things are true. The usual things emphasized are that Joseph Smith was a true prophet of God, the Book of Mormon is true, and the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints is true. The LDS manual, True to the Faith (pgs. 178–180), contains a good summary of a testimony and also the importance attached to it.
There are a number of different reasons why Mormons bear their testimony:
- They believe it is the most important and most powerful thing they can share.
- They believe the way to “build a testimony” is to “bear a testimony.” In other words, they believe the more they give it, the stronger their faith will become.
- Because many Mormons don’t know Mormonism very well, they fall back on their testimonies when they don’t know what to say.
- Sometimes they bear it when you have made them think. They view it as a defense helping them to ward off doubts, etc.
Because testimonies are so important to Mormons, it is good for Christians to also bear their testimonies. A personal statement of faith is more impactful to a Mormon than an objective statement like “the Bible teaches.” We speak their language when we say, “We know.” We know because the Bible teaches us the truth, but we don’t always have to say this to a Mormon.
A Christian’s testimony should emphasize their joy and confidence because everything rests on what Jesus has done for them. Here are some suggestions to get you thinking:
- I know I am totally forgiven because Jesus paid my debt and doesn’t ask me to pay him back.
- I know I am altogether worthy in God’s sight because Jesus has already kept all the commandments for me.
- I know I will live eternally with Heavenly Father because I am perfect in his sight through Jesus.
Take some time to think about what you want to say. Your testimony should be your own. Express your joy and confidence in your own words. An added bonus of taking time to think through your testimony is the fact that sharing on a personal level is an effective way to witness to all people, and not just to Mormons. You will discover many opportunities to use it.