“The blood of the martyrs is the seed of the Church.” — Tertullian

Introduction

What does it truly mean to be a witness? The Greek word martys (μάρτυς) gives us a compelling answer. Originally meaning “witness,” it became synonymous with martyr—one who would rather die than deny the truth of Christ. This shift wasn’t accidental. It reflected the very heartbeat of the early church: radical devotion to Jesus, no matter the cost.

1. The Meaning of Martys

The Greek word martys appears nearly 35 times in the New Testament. While initially referring to someone who gives testimony in court, the word deepens in meaning through the lives of those who gave public witness of Jesus—even at the expense of their lives. Stephen (Acts 7), James (Acts 12), and Antipas (Rev 2:13) are but a few who died bearing faithful witness.

This is more than historical reflection. To follow Jesus is to be prepared to live — and if needed, die — for Him.

2. Jesus: The Faithful and True Witness

Revelation 1:5 calls Jesus “the faithful witness.” His entire life testified to the nature, love, and mission of God. His ultimate act of witness was the Cross — publicly embracing suffering to testify to the redemptive love of God.

“For this purpose I was born and for this purpose I have come into the world—to bear witness to the truth.” (John 18:37)

Jesus was not a victim; He was a witness. And as His followers, we carry on that mission.

3. Stephen: The First Christian Martyr

Stephen, full of grace and power, gave a public testimony of Christ before the Sanhedrin. He recounted Israel’s history, confronted hardened hearts, and beheld Jesus standing at the right hand of God (Acts 7:55). His death was not in vain — it ignited a Gospel fire in Jerusalem and beyond.

4. Martyrdom Today

Though often overlooked in the Western Church, martyrdom is a present reality. Open Doors reports that thousands of Christians are killed each year for their faith. These are not just statistics — they are brothers and sisters, witnesses whose courage should awaken our own.

5. Witnessing in Daily Life

Not all are called to die for Christ, but all are called to live for Him. Martyria isn’t just dying for Jesus — it’s living a life that cannot be explained without Him. That includes:

• Testifying to what He’s done in your life.

• Boldly proclaiming the Gospel.

• Living with integrity under pressure.

• Remaining faithful in trials.

Summary

True witness is rooted in the Greek word martys, calling every believer to a life of bold testimony. From Jesus to Stephen to modern-day martyrs, the call remains the same — live for truth even in the face of death.

Key Points:

• The word martys means “witness” and became associated with martyrdom.

• Jesus is the ultimate witness, and we follow in His steps.

• Every believer is called to testify boldly to the truth of Christ.

Question:
What does it look like for you to be a “martyr” — a witness — in your daily life?