Have you considered lately those famous last words and last speeches, and the power they have over those of us who remain?

Many, like John Wayne, Winston Churchill,  Arthur Conan Doyle, T.S. Eliot,  and Vince Lombardi, said tender goodbyes and died with the names of their loved ones on their lips. Entomologist Vladimir Nabokov’s last words were, “A certain butterfly is already on the wing.” Nostradamus correctly predicted, “By this time tomorrow, I will no longer be here.”

The last public words of Jesus from John’s gospel, spoken to the incredulous crowds on the heels of the raising of Lazarus, and the prediction of Jesus’ own death, were recorded for us and should be of special importance to us.

“And Jesus cried out and said, “Whoever believes in me, believes not in me but in him who sent me. And whoever sees me sees him who sent me. I have come into the world as light, so that whoever believes in me may not remain in darkness. If anyone hears my words and does not keep them, I do not judge him; for I did not come to judge the world but to save the world. The one who rejects me and does not receive my words has a judge; the word that I have spoken will judge him on the last day. For I have not spoken on my own authority, but the Father who sent me has himself given me a commandment—what to say and what to speak.” –John 12:44-49 ESV

As people, we should pay attention to God’s words that explain the way we can be freed from judgment and be restored to Him. As speakers, we can also pay attention to the way Jesus said these words, and what makes his message so compelling, even 2000 years later.

• Jesus spoke with passion. He ‘cried out and said’ these words. When God raises His voice, we should listen!
• Jesus spoke with conviction. He knew His mission and message, and spoke it with bold confidence.
• Jesus spoke with authenticity. His character and accomplishments backed up his words. 
• Jesus spoke with openness. He told the people that they could believe Him or not. He told them his motivation was not to judge them but to save them. While we want our presentations to be winsome, we must be content if we only win some.
• Jesus spoke with brevity. His message was clear and concise.
• Jesus spoke with authority. He knew He was there only by God’s divine appointment, and He was careful to articulate the message God had given Him.

What does Jesus last message say about an outspoken leader speaking with a “chip on his shoulder” to provoke a mere emotional response?   Does Jesus condemn his listeners or rather challenge them to a faith response?  How is the Holy Spirit working here through His redemptive message and yours? 

Since redemption (being restored from sin and brokenness) is a main goal in speaking then doesn’t that message need to be shared in a redemptive fashion?  

At Chosen to Speak, our network of coaches is here to help lift our clients take their speaking ability to the next level. Whether you’re a pastor, teacher, a business or ministry leader, podcaster, or someone who is looking to launch a speaking career, we can help you identify strengths (and weaknesses) so you can grow in your identity as a speaker and leader. We can help you gain confidence in your unique message and voice, and show you how to build your platform and engage with your audience on a broader and deeper level. We will introduce you to our international team of speakers and coaches who are already having an impact in their communities.

Contact us today for more information at contact@chosentospeak.com.