The Greek word *martus* (G3144), from which we derive the term martyr, fundamentally means a witness. It refers to one who sees an event and can report it to others, bearing testimony to what they have observed. In the context of God's plan, the Two Witnesses are described as existing witnesses who receive additional gifts and powers from God to proclaim the truth. God grants them the privilege and strength to communicate His message publicly to mankind as His representatives. Their role is not necessarily to predict future events, but to maintain and preach the truth as revealed by God. Additionally, the saints, as part of the Church, overcome satan through the blood of Christ and the word of their testimony, continuing to serve as witnesses of God's way of life. Individually and collectively, they are called to witness for God through their works, glorifying Him by being reliable and accurate in their representation of His way.

In the New Testament, the Greek word *martus* (G3144), often transliterated as *martys*, carries a meaning closely aligned with the Old Testament Hebrew terms for witness, such as *'ed* and *'ud*. Primarily, *martus* denotes one who gives testimony, provides proof, or recounts what they have seen or know, most often in a legal or judicial sense. This foundational meaning emphasizes being an eyewitness or bearing testimony to facts, rather than immediately implying death for a cause, though the English word "martyr" derives from it. When encountering forms of *martus* in Scripture, such as witness, testimony, or testify, the initial understanding should focus on this judicial connotation of giving evidence or proof. The concept of *martus* extends to the role of key figures chosen by Jesus Christ to bear witness to His life, death, and resurrection. He selected twelve men to observe His actions and teachings intimately over three and a half years. They witnessed His trial, crucifixion, burial, and resurrection, and saw Him multiple times after He rose from the dead until His ascension. These apostles were commissioned to proclaim what they had seen and heard, first in Jerusalem, then in Judea and Samaria, and ultimately to the entire world. Their testimony was irreproachable, rooted in direct experience, and they devoted their lives to sharing it, often facing severe persecution and death as a result. Over time, the meaning of *martus* evolved to include the idea of martyrdom, particularly in the book of Revelation, where it is associated with those who are slain for their witness to Jesus and for the Word of God. This aspect of giving one's life for faith became a significant part of Christian history, especially in later centuries when many faced persecution and death for publicly testifying to their beliefs. However, the primary sense of *martus* remains giving proof or eyewitness testimony, with martyrdom as an extension of that ultimate commitment. In a broader sense, *martus* applies to all who are called to witness for God through both speech and behavior. Testifying often involves sharing personal experiences of God's work in one's life, whether through preaching or casual conversation. Yet, non-verbal witnessing, such as living out godly principles through actions like keeping the Sabbath or displaying honorable conduct, can be even more impactful. Everyday behavior, reflecting God's character, serves as a powerful testimony to the world, shining as a light that glorifies Him. Thus, *martus* encompasses a divine duty to represent God accurately, holding fast to the testimony with deep value and commitment, whether through words or deeds.

The Greek word *martus* (G3144), often translated as "witness," carries a profound significance in the context of testifying to the truth. It encompasses the act of bearing witness to God's way, as seen in Hebrews 11, where heroes of faith like Abel, Enoch, Noah, Abraham, Sarah, and Moses testified through their actions and obedience. Abel bore witness by offering an acceptable sacrifice, Enoch by pleasing God, and Noah through his faith in building the ark. Abraham's witness shone in leaving Ur, dwelling in tents, and sacrificing Isaac, while Sarah testified by bearing the promised son. Moses showed his faith by refusing royal rank, forsaking Egypt, and keeping the Passover. Similarly, everyday actions, words, and decisions serve as a testimony of devotion to God, whether in family interactions, public adherence to law, or diligence on the job. Everything said and done that others observe becomes a loud testimony of the beliefs held. The question remains whether there is a willingness, like the martyred saints, to lay down life itself for God's Word and beliefs, reflecting the sacrificial attitude commended in Scripture.