This happened back around June. I had typed up the encounter, but never posted it on here. So here it is! If you are with one of these groups I ask that you please read this with an open mind.
Ever since I started studying biblical evangelism after I was born again I had been praying and telling my wife that I hope some Jehova's witnesses or Mormons come to our door. Why? Because it is an excellent evangelism opportunity. Jehova's witnesses ultimately believe that Jesus was Michael the archangel and deny the trinity, that He was God in the flesh. Mormon's (LDS), believe that Jesus was Satan's brother and that anyone can become their own god in the after-life... thus denying the trinity as well. Both of them are also a works based religion and do not believe in being saved by grace through faith.
If you are in one of these organizations and do not know this then PLEASE research your own religion and find out the facts. What is hard is that both of these use the same terminology as Christians, but it IS NOT Christian! So you can see why I prayed for this opportunity. Last week, my prayer was answered! Here is what happened.
My wife and I have the summers off since we are both educators and I heard the doorbell ring one afternoon. I felt a bit excited because I thought this could be it! I grabbed a million dollar bill tract off my bookshelf and ran to the door to look through and I saw an older man, and his wife with bibles in hand!
My prayer had been answered. I prayed that the Holy Spirit would lead me and guide our conversation as I continued the whole way through. Prayer helps so much! The man began by asking me if I wondered why there is a church on every corner of almost every street and started through his routine as his wife stood by. This man was extremely knowledgeable of his scripture. He asked very good questions and tried to show me different verses from his bible. I asked if it was a Watch Tower bible and I said no thank you. The Watch Tower bible, or known as the New World Translation, is a bible produced by an anonymous committee who shapes the scriptures to their desired beliefs. He then proceeded to show me verses from a KJV, but I didn't know if that is really what it was or not so I said no thank you and told him I wanted to talk about the Word in it's entirety.
I then told him I had listened to him and I would now like to ask him a few questions. I asked him if he considered himself to be a good person. When he discovered he is a lying, thieving, adulterer at heart, he said, "well wasn't Paul"? He didn't get the point right away. This got me on a rabbit rail unfortunately and he turned the conversation back to his routine by quoting scripture with lots of "what ifs" and "this could possibly mean this". I was very patient with his words and scripture references that he took grossly out of context. Through constant prayer I noticed his wife had contrition in her eyes and she walked away about halfway through.
The conversation lasted around 2 hours. Many of the questions where "what if" questions as I said before. He asked me where would my baby son go if he died. I told him the bible gives one reference to possibly heaven, BUT it does not say for sure. God does not tell us. Apparently, their organization has shaped scripture and their doctrine in order to answer the unanswerable question. He told me that my son would be raise up in sometimes during the end times and live a whole other life...getting to make a choice to accept God or not. There is great danger in doing this because emotions get in the way of truth many times.
He also asked me what church would Jesus go to if He came back. I said something along the lines of that Christ already has His church and that is the body, not the building. Many organizations like this like to make the claim that they are the first church. Claiming that you are the first church, does not make you the right, only, or biblical church.
I was fortunate enough to give him the Law and the Gospel biblically 2 or 3 times to a point without him trying to bring up someone else again. I ended our conversation by saying I cared about him and was glad he came by. I then gave him the tract and told him that Jesus Christ is the only way to Heaven and there is a real Hell now despite what you want to call it.
The conversation was much more extensive, but when you have knowledge of the true law and Gospel it really makes things much more simple when talking to those who are all about their intellect. Their patrol cars drove by 7 or 8 times to check on him during the duration of our time. Please pray that his wife and friends hearts may be unhardened to what was said, that their eyes would be open, and that they are receptive to the gospel message on the tract.
I have never seen the organization return to our neighborhood since then. Maybe our house or neighborhood was "marked".
Remember, it's always okay to say "I don't know, but what I do know is this"...and go into the law and Gospel! Our God is truly an awesome God. For more information on how to deal with these kind of encounters their is a great book called, The School of Biblical Evangelism that talks about these things.
If you are a Jehova's Witness or Mormon, I love you, but please do some research to see if what I am saying is true because their is NOTHING more important than your eternal salvation. It pains me because this man was not sure of his.
If you are a Christian and this happens to you, answer the door! Share the law and the gospel, use your testimony of how you became a born-again Christian, or hand them a good biblical gospel tract!
May God bless you and yours!
In Christ,
Joey
www.needGod.com
Sunday, December 27, 2009
Saturday, December 26, 2009
A lesson for daddy
This post is not about evangelism, but it is about something else that is dear to me and that is parenting. Last night, I had to deal with a rough situation that we all do as parents, especially if you have or have had little boys.
We have been teaching and disciplining our son from a biblical sense, even though he is only about 2 and a half years old. I could go on and on about how intelligent and advanced I think he is, but that would be the proud daddy in me talking : )
As he entered into the toddler years he began doing the natural things such as hitting back, not sharing, and taking toys from others. He has progressively gotten MUCH better as when he is disciplined we explain WHY he is being disciplined and are on the situation right away. This is greatly reinforced, the part where they are on it right away, at his day care and my wife and I are truly grateful for the staff they have.
Last night, he was playing by himself at a relatives house to himself. Usually two others toddlers take his toys, mess with him, or do other things that he is not used to. It breaks my heart, but it has provided great teachable moments for my little boy.
The two began jumping on him while he was playing on the ground with his cars and began to hit him. Grayson, very upset, simply got up and ran into the other room with his toys. This doesn't sound like a big deal, but it is a HUGE deal to me and I will tell you why. As a dad, growing up in martial arts, and someone that used to be into the rough and tough sports, my natural reaction was to want my son to hit them back or push them down. Dads typically want their sons to not be a "sissy", or "wimp". I believe that is prevalent in our society as well, "if they hit you first, you hit back"!
A couple months ago he would have definitely hit back or pushed them down. However, when I understood why he didn't hit back this time and left the situation I realized that is what we taught him to do. I was instantly convicted of my feeling and was so proud of my boy. I know it sounds silly as he is only a toddler, but he grasps the understanding of when certain situations occur. He knows he has to make a choice. As adults we tend to forget that children have choices, even though they have natural tendencies. Just like as adults we have a natural sin-nature and we have to constantly repent, thus making the right choice. We are really not all that different.
When someone tries to take a toy from my son, I tell my son to let them have it. Why? Most will say that it's not fair because my child had the toy first, however, my son is then being selfish and not sharing. We tend to forget that both children are actually sinning, the one trying to steal, and the one being selfish. Since I started that I have seen my son begin to truly show humbleness, as a TODDLER.
My point in all this is, as a Christian, I have realized that I will experience heart ache as I see more of these situations happening, but it is truly the best for my son. My goal is for him to be raised with biblical principles, having a humble, loving, and serving heart for God and people. That is more important than being a star football player, tough kid in school, or any other macho stereotype I had growing up.
I do believe in self-defense if your life is in danger, but not when it comes to silly fights as I see and have experienced as a boy growing up, through school, and teaching at school. I pray that my son will continue to grow in this manner and make these kinds of choices. I also pray that I will continue to have the realization that I had last night and be proud and supportive of these kind of choices rather than let my natural sinful side for him to retaliate to come in.
As Christians it is inevitable that we will suffer trials and tribulations, because darkness hates the light as the bible says. To what extent, it's impossible to know. I shouldn't expect any less for myself or my family, but God is and should always be first. I naturally want to shield my son from the world when it comes to this, but if I do that how will he ever have a chance to change it.
Anyways, I really wanted to share this and I hope you enjoyed it and maybe learned something from this experience. May God bless you and your little ones as well!
In Christ,
Joey
We have been teaching and disciplining our son from a biblical sense, even though he is only about 2 and a half years old. I could go on and on about how intelligent and advanced I think he is, but that would be the proud daddy in me talking : )
As he entered into the toddler years he began doing the natural things such as hitting back, not sharing, and taking toys from others. He has progressively gotten MUCH better as when he is disciplined we explain WHY he is being disciplined and are on the situation right away. This is greatly reinforced, the part where they are on it right away, at his day care and my wife and I are truly grateful for the staff they have.
Last night, he was playing by himself at a relatives house to himself. Usually two others toddlers take his toys, mess with him, or do other things that he is not used to. It breaks my heart, but it has provided great teachable moments for my little boy.
The two began jumping on him while he was playing on the ground with his cars and began to hit him. Grayson, very upset, simply got up and ran into the other room with his toys. This doesn't sound like a big deal, but it is a HUGE deal to me and I will tell you why. As a dad, growing up in martial arts, and someone that used to be into the rough and tough sports, my natural reaction was to want my son to hit them back or push them down. Dads typically want their sons to not be a "sissy", or "wimp". I believe that is prevalent in our society as well, "if they hit you first, you hit back"!
A couple months ago he would have definitely hit back or pushed them down. However, when I understood why he didn't hit back this time and left the situation I realized that is what we taught him to do. I was instantly convicted of my feeling and was so proud of my boy. I know it sounds silly as he is only a toddler, but he grasps the understanding of when certain situations occur. He knows he has to make a choice. As adults we tend to forget that children have choices, even though they have natural tendencies. Just like as adults we have a natural sin-nature and we have to constantly repent, thus making the right choice. We are really not all that different.
When someone tries to take a toy from my son, I tell my son to let them have it. Why? Most will say that it's not fair because my child had the toy first, however, my son is then being selfish and not sharing. We tend to forget that both children are actually sinning, the one trying to steal, and the one being selfish. Since I started that I have seen my son begin to truly show humbleness, as a TODDLER.
My point in all this is, as a Christian, I have realized that I will experience heart ache as I see more of these situations happening, but it is truly the best for my son. My goal is for him to be raised with biblical principles, having a humble, loving, and serving heart for God and people. That is more important than being a star football player, tough kid in school, or any other macho stereotype I had growing up.
I do believe in self-defense if your life is in danger, but not when it comes to silly fights as I see and have experienced as a boy growing up, through school, and teaching at school. I pray that my son will continue to grow in this manner and make these kinds of choices. I also pray that I will continue to have the realization that I had last night and be proud and supportive of these kind of choices rather than let my natural sinful side for him to retaliate to come in.
As Christians it is inevitable that we will suffer trials and tribulations, because darkness hates the light as the bible says. To what extent, it's impossible to know. I shouldn't expect any less for myself or my family, but God is and should always be first. I naturally want to shield my son from the world when it comes to this, but if I do that how will he ever have a chance to change it.
Anyways, I really wanted to share this and I hope you enjoyed it and maybe learned something from this experience. May God bless you and your little ones as well!
In Christ,
Joey
Saturday, December 12, 2009
A night of "I believes"
Since it has finally stayed cold in Texas consistently for over a couple weeks I have been going indoors to share the gospel. Whenever I go to my favorite outdoor "fishing" spot I usually go on Saturday nights, but I decided to go on a Friday this time. That is when a local evangelism team goes out and does the same.
I didn't expect many people to be out there since it was pretty cold outside, but to my surprise their were more groups of people hanging out than when I go on Saturday. As I walked around the area I saw the same team out there, which are very nice and I always enjoy fellowship with them.
I started out by praying for greater manifestations of the Holy Spirit, a great thing to pray for when witnessing or just starting your day out. To see His hand intervene is truly awesome. That doesn't mean for tongue speaking or any other charismatic gift like that to happen, even though it would be nice if I could witness to people that spoke a foreign language in their own language! What I mean is for the Holy Spirit to manifest Himself through; unhardening hearts, convicting the conscience, opening peoples eyes, and for opportunities to share the gospel according to His will. God uses all of us. It's just a matter of submitting to how you want Him to use you and I personally want Him to use me to proclaim the gospel of His son, Jesus Christ.
The first group of people I came across was a large group of about 12 boys and girls, mainly consisting of boys dressed in mainly black with piercings and such. When I handed them tracts I noticed a guy in the back who I had met two weeks ago who told me he was an agnostic and who had got really defensive when we started talking about judgment. This was also the same lad who lead me down a rabbit trail. Ironically, when I pointed him out he said he didn't remember me and that "he was a Christian and he likes to party". It's funny how individuals change and present themselves when they are with different groups of people. I have seen this there many times.
Another guy in the group told me he accepted Jesus Christ as His Lord and Savior last week. I got caught up in the moment, gave him a high five, and told him to keep reading his bible. I really should have continued to go through the law and the gospel with him anyways. I messed up or maybe it was planned, only God knows, but I pray that his conversion was real. I then moved on as this group was not wanting to hear what I had to say because they were walking away as we talked. I thanked them for their time and let them be, hoping they would read the law and gospel message on the tract.
I then talked with a group of 4 girls that were on the same path and we went through the law and the gospel. There was a lot of joking around going on until we got through the Ten Commandments and we started talking about judgment. Their demeanor immediately changed. This is what I am talking about with manifestation of the Holy spirit. Their conscience was seared because they knew the seriousness of their sin even though they said they were good people and have gotten baptized in the past.
They listened intently and we talked about how repentance and trust in Christ is the only way to true salvation. It was really a great conversation. There were some more encounters that went the same way, but the overall thing that stuck out the most was a lot of people were saying, "well, I believe God is love, and He will forgive us all", or "I believe we go to heaven no matter what", or "I believe God doesn't send people to hell". This is why my blog is called a night of "I believes" because this was I heard more than ANYTHING. People were putting their own personal beliefs over what scripture actually says.
I responded to all these accusations in a gentle and understanding way by saying, "okay, I can see how you would see that, but let me tell you what the bible actually says because this is really important." If they said, no, then I would say, "well lets say IF the bible is real because if hell is then it would benefit you to know what it says. I care about you and I don't want you to go there."
Whenever someone starts getting fussy, ask for their name or call them by name. It makes it more personal and shows that you actually care, which you should. Please know that the reasons I write about my witnessing experiences is because;
1. I like to boast on the things God does (not me, because I'm seriously a wretched person who deserves nothing but hell!)
2. Share what the world outside of the church building actually believes and are saying here in America.
3. Share any tips on sharing your faith and being a witness for Christ. I am not an expert by any means, but I try my best to be obedient. My hope is that you can read about these encounters and learn from my mistakes or utilize any ideas to help further your witness for our Savior, Jesus Christ.
Anyways, the conversations went great. What I mean by that is, there was CONVICTION. They saw the severity of their sin and what they, as we all, deserve. I don't know if they are going to be born again or not. I have and probably will never have ANY idea, but they received the law and the gospel and responded in some fashion which is all I can hope to see. That is why I don't pray with someone after I witness. I don't want to give them a false hope that they are then saved, because that is between them and God.
I tell people that repentance and trust in Christ is the ONLY thing that will save them. I tell them to cry out to God because every breath they have is a gift from God and they never know when they will breathe their last breath. I also encourage them to read John in their bible to check out if what I am saying is true.
The last conversations of the night were really interesting though. There was a group of about 15 guys with piercings/tattoos as well. When I gave them million dollar bill tracts they let me know that it's not a good idea to give them fake money because I might get killed. They were probably joking around, but I simply replied, "Really? That wouldn't be cool. This has the million dollar question on the back. So what do you think happens after death?" About half them walked off after I said the word "God".
The guys that stayed showed serious concern and some of the ones that walked off actually came back. A lot of them had their own opinions about God and forgiveness. And they talked about their Catholic views and asked what the difference was between being Catholic and Christian which I have heard before. *If you're Catholic, don't get mad please, I am just writing what was said.* They told me that it was about forgiveness and that as long as you ask for it after you sin then you can go to heaven. I then asked them if they knew what the bible said about it. They said no, and we went through the Ten Commandments and then they got quite and there facial expression changed to one more of earnestness.
We took the forgiveness claim to the court room scenario. Most of them said they had been there before, not on a good account. I asked them if a good and righteous judge would let them go for their crime or punish them for what they deserved. They seemed adamant on saying that a good judge would let them go, but then I asked if someone killed your mother would you want justice or should they be let go? That made them see it differently. I told them we can't change the judges standard just because we are the ones in the hot seat. They grasped that understanding and agreed that a good judge will not let someone go for saying sorry, meaning it, and doing good things if he is really good.
I then asked them what they would think if someone walked up and paid that fine for them and they were free to go. I explained that, that is what Jesus Christ did. God is so loving and just that He see's all sin the same, lying, stealing, rape, murder, hate, you name it. He is so fair and good that He will punish ALL sin. Christ is the only one who can legally dismiss their case, BUT they have to repent and put their trust in Him. Relying on doing anything or going to church, and asking for forgiveness will not give them salvation. It is not a work to be maintained. It is a gift to be embraced with EVERYTHING you have that God grants you.
They didn't have any questions after I lead them to the cross. They thanked me for the time we shared and said they were going to think about what I said. We then parted ways. I am so thankful for the opportunity to talk to these guys. Even though they appeared tough and as though they didn't care at first they do have souls and they did care.
After a couple more conversations I had my last conversation of the night. What was funny is groups of people were asking for more than one tract and they were passing them out to other people trying to be funny. How ironic, and what a blessing! I even had some of them putting them on peoples cars because they thought it was funny as well.
Okay, well the last conversation there was a group of 6 guys standing around kind of acting goofy. I saw that they had the tracts in their hand, but I had not given them to them. I asked if they were the ones who put them on the cars and they said no, and that they were doing an activity for a bible study...Anyways, once we started talking one of the guys pulls out a video camera and starts filming me and the whole conversation. He said it was for the bible study. If it really was, awesome, if not, then I don't know what was going on.
They were honest and listened intently. It was a fun conversation as they were neat guys. I also told them for their bible study to look up Revelation 21:8 because we cannot ignore the severity of hell and who is going there. I also explained John 14:6 that no other religion leads to God. I tried to get in everything I could in case the video really was for a bible study or if anyone besides them would see it as it would be a great opportunity. I also explained to them that if they are Christians what the importance of sharing their faith is and told them to refer to Matthew 28 and Mark 15.
I finished the night by sharing stories with the evangelism team and telling them I appreciate what they do. We also talked about the Hell's Best Kept Secret/True and False Conversions CD that I handed out to their team the last time I saw them. If you haven't heard the message it is amazing and available for free at www.livingwaters.com - I try to carry a few CDs with me in case I ever meet other evangelists. Thank you Lord for cargo pants!
The team consists of a dad, his kids, and a couple of people from their church who go out and do it regularly. Praise God for His faithful laborers and that He would raise up more for His glory.
Thank you for reading and may God bless you and yours!
In Christ,
Joey
I didn't expect many people to be out there since it was pretty cold outside, but to my surprise their were more groups of people hanging out than when I go on Saturday. As I walked around the area I saw the same team out there, which are very nice and I always enjoy fellowship with them.
I started out by praying for greater manifestations of the Holy Spirit, a great thing to pray for when witnessing or just starting your day out. To see His hand intervene is truly awesome. That doesn't mean for tongue speaking or any other charismatic gift like that to happen, even though it would be nice if I could witness to people that spoke a foreign language in their own language! What I mean is for the Holy Spirit to manifest Himself through; unhardening hearts, convicting the conscience, opening peoples eyes, and for opportunities to share the gospel according to His will. God uses all of us. It's just a matter of submitting to how you want Him to use you and I personally want Him to use me to proclaim the gospel of His son, Jesus Christ.
The first group of people I came across was a large group of about 12 boys and girls, mainly consisting of boys dressed in mainly black with piercings and such. When I handed them tracts I noticed a guy in the back who I had met two weeks ago who told me he was an agnostic and who had got really defensive when we started talking about judgment. This was also the same lad who lead me down a rabbit trail. Ironically, when I pointed him out he said he didn't remember me and that "he was a Christian and he likes to party". It's funny how individuals change and present themselves when they are with different groups of people. I have seen this there many times.
Another guy in the group told me he accepted Jesus Christ as His Lord and Savior last week. I got caught up in the moment, gave him a high five, and told him to keep reading his bible. I really should have continued to go through the law and the gospel with him anyways. I messed up or maybe it was planned, only God knows, but I pray that his conversion was real. I then moved on as this group was not wanting to hear what I had to say because they were walking away as we talked. I thanked them for their time and let them be, hoping they would read the law and gospel message on the tract.
I then talked with a group of 4 girls that were on the same path and we went through the law and the gospel. There was a lot of joking around going on until we got through the Ten Commandments and we started talking about judgment. Their demeanor immediately changed. This is what I am talking about with manifestation of the Holy spirit. Their conscience was seared because they knew the seriousness of their sin even though they said they were good people and have gotten baptized in the past.
They listened intently and we talked about how repentance and trust in Christ is the only way to true salvation. It was really a great conversation. There were some more encounters that went the same way, but the overall thing that stuck out the most was a lot of people were saying, "well, I believe God is love, and He will forgive us all", or "I believe we go to heaven no matter what", or "I believe God doesn't send people to hell". This is why my blog is called a night of "I believes" because this was I heard more than ANYTHING. People were putting their own personal beliefs over what scripture actually says.
I responded to all these accusations in a gentle and understanding way by saying, "okay, I can see how you would see that, but let me tell you what the bible actually says because this is really important." If they said, no, then I would say, "well lets say IF the bible is real because if hell is then it would benefit you to know what it says. I care about you and I don't want you to go there."
Whenever someone starts getting fussy, ask for their name or call them by name. It makes it more personal and shows that you actually care, which you should. Please know that the reasons I write about my witnessing experiences is because;
1. I like to boast on the things God does (not me, because I'm seriously a wretched person who deserves nothing but hell!)
2. Share what the world outside of the church building actually believes and are saying here in America.
3. Share any tips on sharing your faith and being a witness for Christ. I am not an expert by any means, but I try my best to be obedient. My hope is that you can read about these encounters and learn from my mistakes or utilize any ideas to help further your witness for our Savior, Jesus Christ.
Anyways, the conversations went great. What I mean by that is, there was CONVICTION. They saw the severity of their sin and what they, as we all, deserve. I don't know if they are going to be born again or not. I have and probably will never have ANY idea, but they received the law and the gospel and responded in some fashion which is all I can hope to see. That is why I don't pray with someone after I witness. I don't want to give them a false hope that they are then saved, because that is between them and God.
I tell people that repentance and trust in Christ is the ONLY thing that will save them. I tell them to cry out to God because every breath they have is a gift from God and they never know when they will breathe their last breath. I also encourage them to read John in their bible to check out if what I am saying is true.
The last conversations of the night were really interesting though. There was a group of about 15 guys with piercings/tattoos as well. When I gave them million dollar bill tracts they let me know that it's not a good idea to give them fake money because I might get killed. They were probably joking around, but I simply replied, "Really? That wouldn't be cool. This has the million dollar question on the back. So what do you think happens after death?" About half them walked off after I said the word "God".
The guys that stayed showed serious concern and some of the ones that walked off actually came back. A lot of them had their own opinions about God and forgiveness. And they talked about their Catholic views and asked what the difference was between being Catholic and Christian which I have heard before. *If you're Catholic, don't get mad please, I am just writing what was said.* They told me that it was about forgiveness and that as long as you ask for it after you sin then you can go to heaven. I then asked them if they knew what the bible said about it. They said no, and we went through the Ten Commandments and then they got quite and there facial expression changed to one more of earnestness.
We took the forgiveness claim to the court room scenario. Most of them said they had been there before, not on a good account. I asked them if a good and righteous judge would let them go for their crime or punish them for what they deserved. They seemed adamant on saying that a good judge would let them go, but then I asked if someone killed your mother would you want justice or should they be let go? That made them see it differently. I told them we can't change the judges standard just because we are the ones in the hot seat. They grasped that understanding and agreed that a good judge will not let someone go for saying sorry, meaning it, and doing good things if he is really good.
I then asked them what they would think if someone walked up and paid that fine for them and they were free to go. I explained that, that is what Jesus Christ did. God is so loving and just that He see's all sin the same, lying, stealing, rape, murder, hate, you name it. He is so fair and good that He will punish ALL sin. Christ is the only one who can legally dismiss their case, BUT they have to repent and put their trust in Him. Relying on doing anything or going to church, and asking for forgiveness will not give them salvation. It is not a work to be maintained. It is a gift to be embraced with EVERYTHING you have that God grants you.
They didn't have any questions after I lead them to the cross. They thanked me for the time we shared and said they were going to think about what I said. We then parted ways. I am so thankful for the opportunity to talk to these guys. Even though they appeared tough and as though they didn't care at first they do have souls and they did care.
After a couple more conversations I had my last conversation of the night. What was funny is groups of people were asking for more than one tract and they were passing them out to other people trying to be funny. How ironic, and what a blessing! I even had some of them putting them on peoples cars because they thought it was funny as well.
Okay, well the last conversation there was a group of 6 guys standing around kind of acting goofy. I saw that they had the tracts in their hand, but I had not given them to them. I asked if they were the ones who put them on the cars and they said no, and that they were doing an activity for a bible study...Anyways, once we started talking one of the guys pulls out a video camera and starts filming me and the whole conversation. He said it was for the bible study. If it really was, awesome, if not, then I don't know what was going on.
They were honest and listened intently. It was a fun conversation as they were neat guys. I also told them for their bible study to look up Revelation 21:8 because we cannot ignore the severity of hell and who is going there. I also explained John 14:6 that no other religion leads to God. I tried to get in everything I could in case the video really was for a bible study or if anyone besides them would see it as it would be a great opportunity. I also explained to them that if they are Christians what the importance of sharing their faith is and told them to refer to Matthew 28 and Mark 15.
I finished the night by sharing stories with the evangelism team and telling them I appreciate what they do. We also talked about the Hell's Best Kept Secret/True and False Conversions CD that I handed out to their team the last time I saw them. If you haven't heard the message it is amazing and available for free at www.livingwaters.com - I try to carry a few CDs with me in case I ever meet other evangelists. Thank you Lord for cargo pants!
The team consists of a dad, his kids, and a couple of people from their church who go out and do it regularly. Praise God for His faithful laborers and that He would raise up more for His glory.
Thank you for reading and may God bless you and yours!
In Christ,
Joey
Saturday, December 5, 2009
Why I love my wife
Call me romantic, but I really want to write about why I love my wife. Not because I am in the "dog house" or other marriage jokes I hear a lot whenever I buy flowers for my wife just because I love her. Honestly, both of us don't see or joke that way and its not because we have been married for 3 and a half years since some don't see that as very long. If we are ever irritated with one another it does not last very long because we keep the communication lines open and are honest and upfront with one another. We follow the biblical guideline for marriage. We honor it and we stick to it as it is God's plan.
With that being said...
When I met her it was not love at first site as some claim, but it did happen rather quickly. She was and still is truly unique, loving, and has the most genuine character making her great with children and others. She has what some would call "southern hospitality" that is almost forgotten nowadays, but what I call a heart for God, loving Him and people as He commands of us.
She is sensitive while having a child-like innocence, but possesses strength when it comes down to the things that matter. She is firm in her faith and in maintaining her witness for Jesus Christ. She is modest, while being fashionable without conforming to societies standard of what is "in" and what is not.
Within our first week of getting to know each other we wanted to run off and get married. Thankfully, the Lord gave us the gift of reason, haha. I was a man with a plan to run off and try to make it getting in a band as I was a guitar player and songwriter who threw the idea of college way out the window during high school. Thankfully His is plan is ALWAYS better than ours! I was not a Christian, but presumed to be one because my faith was in things I did rather than in Christ, my high morals, and my love for appearing to be a good person. It fooled a lot of people, including myself until the law of God convicted my heart and showed me how wretched I really was. Do you think you are good enough to go to heaven as I did? Check this link out if so - www.thegoodpersontest.com
I am thankful He didn't strike me down and give me what I deserved, hell and that He saved a lost soul like me almost a year now. By His grace He allowed me to have her to be my wife and partner in life.
Besides my wife being breathtakingly beautiful, it was not that which I was attracted to as I said before. I really didn't date too much because it was more drama than I wanted and it was really hard to find a girl with good morals! Her character is really what stuck out more than anything to me in all honesty.
I love my wife because of who she is, who she knows she is not, and who she wants to be. She is genuine, lovingly, and strives to be obedient to the word of God, which is a quality more important than anything else on this earth. She is a faithful,loving, supporting and awesome partner to have in Christ and marriage. And on top of all that we have a child together. How beautiful is that? My wife will always be the #1 woman to me is because she loves me, God gave her to me, we had a child together, and we are one in marriage. She's 2 years older than me and I tease her about that all the time, but she really will still be the prettiest woman if we make it to old age.
I will end with verses from Ephesians discussing marriage:
Ephesians 5:22
Wives, submit to your husbands as to the Lord. For the husband is the head of the wife as Christ is the head of the church, his body, of which he is the Savior.
Ephesians 5:25
Husbands, love your wives, just as Christ loved the church and gave himself up for her
Ephesians 5:28
In this same way, husbands ought to love their wives as their own bodies. He who loves his wife loves himself. After all, no one ever hated his own body, but he feeds and cares for it, just as Christ does the church—
Ephesians 5:31
For this reason a man will leave his father and mother and be united to his wife, and the two will become one flesh.”
Anyways, thank you for reading about why I love my wife.
Now go tell your husband or wife how much you love them!
May God bless you and yours!
In Christ,
Joey
With that being said...
When I met her it was not love at first site as some claim, but it did happen rather quickly. She was and still is truly unique, loving, and has the most genuine character making her great with children and others. She has what some would call "southern hospitality" that is almost forgotten nowadays, but what I call a heart for God, loving Him and people as He commands of us.
She is sensitive while having a child-like innocence, but possesses strength when it comes down to the things that matter. She is firm in her faith and in maintaining her witness for Jesus Christ. She is modest, while being fashionable without conforming to societies standard of what is "in" and what is not.
Within our first week of getting to know each other we wanted to run off and get married. Thankfully, the Lord gave us the gift of reason, haha. I was a man with a plan to run off and try to make it getting in a band as I was a guitar player and songwriter who threw the idea of college way out the window during high school. Thankfully His is plan is ALWAYS better than ours! I was not a Christian, but presumed to be one because my faith was in things I did rather than in Christ, my high morals, and my love for appearing to be a good person. It fooled a lot of people, including myself until the law of God convicted my heart and showed me how wretched I really was. Do you think you are good enough to go to heaven as I did? Check this link out if so - www.thegoodpersontest.com
I am thankful He didn't strike me down and give me what I deserved, hell and that He saved a lost soul like me almost a year now. By His grace He allowed me to have her to be my wife and partner in life.
Besides my wife being breathtakingly beautiful, it was not that which I was attracted to as I said before. I really didn't date too much because it was more drama than I wanted and it was really hard to find a girl with good morals! Her character is really what stuck out more than anything to me in all honesty.
I love my wife because of who she is, who she knows she is not, and who she wants to be. She is genuine, lovingly, and strives to be obedient to the word of God, which is a quality more important than anything else on this earth. She is a faithful,loving, supporting and awesome partner to have in Christ and marriage. And on top of all that we have a child together. How beautiful is that? My wife will always be the #1 woman to me is because she loves me, God gave her to me, we had a child together, and we are one in marriage. She's 2 years older than me and I tease her about that all the time, but she really will still be the prettiest woman if we make it to old age.
I will end with verses from Ephesians discussing marriage:
Ephesians 5:22
Wives, submit to your husbands as to the Lord. For the husband is the head of the wife as Christ is the head of the church, his body, of which he is the Savior.
Ephesians 5:25
Husbands, love your wives, just as Christ loved the church and gave himself up for her
Ephesians 5:28
In this same way, husbands ought to love their wives as their own bodies. He who loves his wife loves himself. After all, no one ever hated his own body, but he feeds and cares for it, just as Christ does the church—
Ephesians 5:31
For this reason a man will leave his father and mother and be united to his wife, and the two will become one flesh.”
Anyways, thank you for reading about why I love my wife.
Now go tell your husband or wife how much you love them!
May God bless you and yours!
In Christ,
Joey
Friday, November 27, 2009
Black Friday Evangelism
I have been excited about black Friday, the most hectic shopping day of the year. I used to dread it as I worked at Toys R Us and then at Target for 4 years so I understand the chaos on both ends of it!
I knew there would be crazy lines so I wanted to pass out as many gospel tracts as I could. I woke up around 3 this morning to go up to Target, Best Buy and whatever hot spots there were since I don't really know. Everywhere pretty much opened around 5am from what I could tell. Any time I go to an event I get REALLY nervous since I'm usually flying solo on these missions, but I am comforted and strengthened by the Holy Spirit and the fact that I have a wonderful wife praying for me.
When I arrived in Rockwall I drove around just to see what kind of lines/crowds there were. There was security setup at Best Buy so I took a couple hundred tracts and handed them to the first couple groups of people in line and asked if they would pass them down. It's amazing how well that works. Usually if the first couple of people won't take them then the rest won't. But if the first couple do, then the rest will. I did this at a model search going on at North Park and my wife and I got to stand back and watch everyone take one. It was great to see the gospel go into the hands of so many.
I almost always use my Million Dollar Bill tracts. I used Obama Trillion Dollar bills for a while, but way to many people would turn them down because of who was on the front! I've even had people tear them up in front of me. It was good for some conversation starters, but as more time went by more people disliked the Obama bucks!
So after I left Best Buy I went to Target which had a HUGE line. I was able to pass out hundreds of MDB tracts one by one which I prefer. That way I get to greet people and actually communicate with them. A couple of people thought I worked there and was asking me questions about the sale, lol. There were at least 800 people there and I ran out of tracts pretty fast. Once the line started moving fast my hands couldn't keep up because it was cold, but thankfully people were stopping just so they could take one. Some people were having their friends save their spot in line so they could come up and get some before they ran out!
When "mass tracting" the usual questions I get are; what are these, what are these for, is this a God thing, who are you with, or what church are you with.
I had someone ask me a question when I was passing them out in lines that I will never forget. I handed it to a lady and as she read the back she said, "why don't you go pass these out to people who aren't saved". I was a bit shocked, and simply replied, "ma'am because you just never know if someone is or not." Maybe I'm wrong in this, but I have to question someone's salvation if that is their response to something with the gospel on it. I would rather assume someone is not saved then assume they are. I don't care if it makes me look stupid or not, because I care more about someones soul than their or my feelings.
One of the biggest deceptions is to think that everyone who says they are a Christian is one. Especially since I have met pastors, other now born again Christians, and myself who called ourselves Christians for years, but never truly repented and put our trust in Christ. We were hypocrites who relied our salvation on a water baptism, "decision", or a sinners prayer where someone told us we would be saved just by simply doing one of those. For more information about salvation you can find my testimony under May on the right of this page.
No one has ever really gotten mad at me from what I could tell, but the ones that I have noticed get a little flustered are the ones who say they are Christians already...
On a good note a man said he was born again and appreciated what I was doing and handed the tract back. Anytime someone does that I tell them to give it to someone I can't and they usually happily keep it.
Next year I need to take twice as many tracts. I had some big money tracts in my car that I was able to pass out as well, but I was a little let down that I didn't have more with me. I went home after that to get more and go check out Mesquite. It was so packed I couldn't find a parking place anywhere except the mall.
Thankfully, it was packed and I was able to hand out tracts and witness to some groups of people.
It was a great experience and I thank God for the opportunities that He gives us to spread His gospel. I eagerly await many more black Fridays : )
Please pray for those individuals who received tracts all around the country as I had many of my brothers and sisters in Christ doing the same thing today. I also ask for prayers for more laborers to stand up and proclaim the true gospel of Jesus Christ. The gospel is what will change our country, and we need more Christians out there preaching it and being a bold witness for Christ by any means.
Thank you for reading and may God bless you and yours.
In Christ,
Joey
I knew there would be crazy lines so I wanted to pass out as many gospel tracts as I could. I woke up around 3 this morning to go up to Target, Best Buy and whatever hot spots there were since I don't really know. Everywhere pretty much opened around 5am from what I could tell. Any time I go to an event I get REALLY nervous since I'm usually flying solo on these missions, but I am comforted and strengthened by the Holy Spirit and the fact that I have a wonderful wife praying for me.
When I arrived in Rockwall I drove around just to see what kind of lines/crowds there were. There was security setup at Best Buy so I took a couple hundred tracts and handed them to the first couple groups of people in line and asked if they would pass them down. It's amazing how well that works. Usually if the first couple of people won't take them then the rest won't. But if the first couple do, then the rest will. I did this at a model search going on at North Park and my wife and I got to stand back and watch everyone take one. It was great to see the gospel go into the hands of so many.
I almost always use my Million Dollar Bill tracts. I used Obama Trillion Dollar bills for a while, but way to many people would turn them down because of who was on the front! I've even had people tear them up in front of me. It was good for some conversation starters, but as more time went by more people disliked the Obama bucks!
So after I left Best Buy I went to Target which had a HUGE line. I was able to pass out hundreds of MDB tracts one by one which I prefer. That way I get to greet people and actually communicate with them. A couple of people thought I worked there and was asking me questions about the sale, lol. There were at least 800 people there and I ran out of tracts pretty fast. Once the line started moving fast my hands couldn't keep up because it was cold, but thankfully people were stopping just so they could take one. Some people were having their friends save their spot in line so they could come up and get some before they ran out!
When "mass tracting" the usual questions I get are; what are these, what are these for, is this a God thing, who are you with, or what church are you with.
I had someone ask me a question when I was passing them out in lines that I will never forget. I handed it to a lady and as she read the back she said, "why don't you go pass these out to people who aren't saved". I was a bit shocked, and simply replied, "ma'am because you just never know if someone is or not." Maybe I'm wrong in this, but I have to question someone's salvation if that is their response to something with the gospel on it. I would rather assume someone is not saved then assume they are. I don't care if it makes me look stupid or not, because I care more about someones soul than their or my feelings.
One of the biggest deceptions is to think that everyone who says they are a Christian is one. Especially since I have met pastors, other now born again Christians, and myself who called ourselves Christians for years, but never truly repented and put our trust in Christ. We were hypocrites who relied our salvation on a water baptism, "decision", or a sinners prayer where someone told us we would be saved just by simply doing one of those. For more information about salvation you can find my testimony under May on the right of this page.
No one has ever really gotten mad at me from what I could tell, but the ones that I have noticed get a little flustered are the ones who say they are Christians already...
On a good note a man said he was born again and appreciated what I was doing and handed the tract back. Anytime someone does that I tell them to give it to someone I can't and they usually happily keep it.
Next year I need to take twice as many tracts. I had some big money tracts in my car that I was able to pass out as well, but I was a little let down that I didn't have more with me. I went home after that to get more and go check out Mesquite. It was so packed I couldn't find a parking place anywhere except the mall.
Thankfully, it was packed and I was able to hand out tracts and witness to some groups of people.
It was a great experience and I thank God for the opportunities that He gives us to spread His gospel. I eagerly await many more black Fridays : )
Please pray for those individuals who received tracts all around the country as I had many of my brothers and sisters in Christ doing the same thing today. I also ask for prayers for more laborers to stand up and proclaim the true gospel of Jesus Christ. The gospel is what will change our country, and we need more Christians out there preaching it and being a bold witness for Christ by any means.
Thank you for reading and may God bless you and yours.
In Christ,
Joey
Wednesday, November 25, 2009
To my atheist, agnostic, and non Christian friends...
It hit me all of the sudden today that I needed to write a letter to my friends on facebook who are atheist, agnostic, non believers in Christ, or those who may not be sure. So here I am. I would ask that you please read this to the end of the page.
I just want to first and foremost say thank you for accepting my friend request or requesting me as a friend on facebook. I may know you personally or I may not, but the acquaintance is appreciated all the same. One of my main goals on facebook is to promote thinking that leads to a creator, which is God, and spread the law and the gospel of Jesus Christ. If you follow my posts or blogs then you already know this and I greatly appreciate your patience and time.
You probably know that I am a born-again Christian, or in many other peoples eyes an extreme or fundamentalist Christian. What people label me or call me really isn't important. I know there is a God, heaven, hell, and that there will be a judgment when we all die whether we believe it or not, which is why I write what I write. I truly care about you. I don't gain anything by my posts except maybe a few people "liking" my status, (I'm sure that will change when there is a dislike button, lol) positive/negative comments, or some hate mail which is fine with me. Trust me, if you want to be popular or people to like you; going and preaching to strangers, and trying to reach others with the gospel is the last way to do it!
I understand some of you may have had bad experiences with a church, Christians, or evangelists. Please keep in mind that there are many in this country who claim to be Christian that are not, including pastors. Christians do not and should not hold themselves higher than anyone else. Just so you know, I have had those experiences as well being a false-convert (calling myself a Christian, but not really being one). I was a hypocrite and there are many others out there. Everything does happen for a reason though.
With that being said there are real Christians that do truly love you despite the manner of their actions at times. The reason we spread the law and the gospel is because we do not want anyone to go to hell. It is eternal punishment. If it is not real then we go in the ground and eventually turn to dust. If the bible is real then we have to face God on judgment day and He will hold us accountable for everything. We will either go to heaven and be with Him forever or go to hell which is everlasting torment. It is not because God is mean or cruel, it is because He is so good and just that He must punish sin.
The bible says that anyone who has broken even one of His laws is guilty. Which is, everyone. The ten commandments say you shouldn't lie, steal, commit adultery (Jesus says lusting is the same thing {{okay, so pretty much anyone who has ever been a teenager}}, He also says if you hate someone it is the same as murder in your heart. No one can keep the law, that's a no-brainer. They are put in place there to show us our need for a Savior and that we are not perfect.
Everyone including myself deserves hell. That is why God sent His son, fully God and fully man to suffer and die on the cross. He then rose from the dead 3 days later forever defeating death for those who will turn from their sin and believe in Him (which I am praying is you). There is nothing we can do to be "good" in His eyes despite what you may have heard. Once God changed my heart, it REALLY changed. I still sin, but I fall into it now instead of diving into it like I used to.
I am not perfect and I am not better than you by any means. However, I am better off, meaning I will go to heaven after I pass however that may be. I don't say that to be belittling, but I say it with confidence and love because I have a relationship with Jesus Christ and I pray and hope the same for you.
You are reading this for a reason. You can get mad at my words, think I'm crazy or you can consider them. I said it once and I'll say it again, I truly care about you which is why I do what I do. I go out and witness every week and I have talked with atheists, agnostics, and other people of different religions, so I hope you do not think I am writing these things in ignorance.
The bible tells all Christians to go and preach the gospel, but obviously not everyone does it. Doing this will not get me to heaven as I am already going there because I repented and put my trust in Christ. However, I am going to be obedient to His word and I do NOT want anyone to go to hell, especially you.
Again, PLEASE consider this. Look into it for yourself. If you believe what I am saying then cry out to God, pray, communicate to Him however you will. You don't need to go to a pastor or have someone pray for you. It is a relationship between YOU and Jesus Christ. The gospel is offensive because we as humans tend to want to hold onto our sin because we love it, even though we know it is wrong. Our conscience tells us that, which is God-given.
The bottom line is that God changed my heart. Everything in my life was going good for me before I became a true Christian, but I was on my way to hell. Now everything is far greater than I could ever imagine knowing Christ through thick and thin. I realize now how wretched I was and how much I needed Him. I'm asking you to open your eyes and check this out for yourself. If you want more information, start in the book of John in the bible, go to www.needGod.com, or feel free to write me as I would love to help with any questions that you may have.
There is NOTHING more important than your eternal salvation!
In Christ,
Joey
I just want to first and foremost say thank you for accepting my friend request or requesting me as a friend on facebook. I may know you personally or I may not, but the acquaintance is appreciated all the same. One of my main goals on facebook is to promote thinking that leads to a creator, which is God, and spread the law and the gospel of Jesus Christ. If you follow my posts or blogs then you already know this and I greatly appreciate your patience and time.
You probably know that I am a born-again Christian, or in many other peoples eyes an extreme or fundamentalist Christian. What people label me or call me really isn't important. I know there is a God, heaven, hell, and that there will be a judgment when we all die whether we believe it or not, which is why I write what I write. I truly care about you. I don't gain anything by my posts except maybe a few people "liking" my status, (I'm sure that will change when there is a dislike button, lol) positive/negative comments, or some hate mail which is fine with me. Trust me, if you want to be popular or people to like you; going and preaching to strangers, and trying to reach others with the gospel is the last way to do it!
I understand some of you may have had bad experiences with a church, Christians, or evangelists. Please keep in mind that there are many in this country who claim to be Christian that are not, including pastors. Christians do not and should not hold themselves higher than anyone else. Just so you know, I have had those experiences as well being a false-convert (calling myself a Christian, but not really being one). I was a hypocrite and there are many others out there. Everything does happen for a reason though.
With that being said there are real Christians that do truly love you despite the manner of their actions at times. The reason we spread the law and the gospel is because we do not want anyone to go to hell. It is eternal punishment. If it is not real then we go in the ground and eventually turn to dust. If the bible is real then we have to face God on judgment day and He will hold us accountable for everything. We will either go to heaven and be with Him forever or go to hell which is everlasting torment. It is not because God is mean or cruel, it is because He is so good and just that He must punish sin.
The bible says that anyone who has broken even one of His laws is guilty. Which is, everyone. The ten commandments say you shouldn't lie, steal, commit adultery (Jesus says lusting is the same thing {{okay, so pretty much anyone who has ever been a teenager}}, He also says if you hate someone it is the same as murder in your heart. No one can keep the law, that's a no-brainer. They are put in place there to show us our need for a Savior and that we are not perfect.
Everyone including myself deserves hell. That is why God sent His son, fully God and fully man to suffer and die on the cross. He then rose from the dead 3 days later forever defeating death for those who will turn from their sin and believe in Him (which I am praying is you). There is nothing we can do to be "good" in His eyes despite what you may have heard. Once God changed my heart, it REALLY changed. I still sin, but I fall into it now instead of diving into it like I used to.
I am not perfect and I am not better than you by any means. However, I am better off, meaning I will go to heaven after I pass however that may be. I don't say that to be belittling, but I say it with confidence and love because I have a relationship with Jesus Christ and I pray and hope the same for you.
You are reading this for a reason. You can get mad at my words, think I'm crazy or you can consider them. I said it once and I'll say it again, I truly care about you which is why I do what I do. I go out and witness every week and I have talked with atheists, agnostics, and other people of different religions, so I hope you do not think I am writing these things in ignorance.
The bible tells all Christians to go and preach the gospel, but obviously not everyone does it. Doing this will not get me to heaven as I am already going there because I repented and put my trust in Christ. However, I am going to be obedient to His word and I do NOT want anyone to go to hell, especially you.
Again, PLEASE consider this. Look into it for yourself. If you believe what I am saying then cry out to God, pray, communicate to Him however you will. You don't need to go to a pastor or have someone pray for you. It is a relationship between YOU and Jesus Christ. The gospel is offensive because we as humans tend to want to hold onto our sin because we love it, even though we know it is wrong. Our conscience tells us that, which is God-given.
The bottom line is that God changed my heart. Everything in my life was going good for me before I became a true Christian, but I was on my way to hell. Now everything is far greater than I could ever imagine knowing Christ through thick and thin. I realize now how wretched I was and how much I needed Him. I'm asking you to open your eyes and check this out for yourself. If you want more information, start in the book of John in the bible, go to www.needGod.com, or feel free to write me as I would love to help with any questions that you may have.
There is NOTHING more important than your eternal salvation!
In Christ,
Joey
Saturday, November 21, 2009
Time for CHRISTmas!!!
Many of you know God changed my heart this January and I became a born-again Christian, or what many commonly called saved. I thought I was a Christian most of my life because I said a prayer, got baptized, did good things, went to church, and went through the routine. I was a false-convert who never repented (turned from sin) and put my trust in Jesus Christ. With that being said, I see everything in a new light, including the holidays.
As I have researched extensively and witnessed already, this is an extremely controversial subject for many Christians. I will probably take some heat for this one I’m sure. This will be my first Christmas as a born-again Christian. In this article I am not knocking anybody or anyone’s beliefs, but you may disagree with what I say. So please understand I am not being dogmatic or legalistic in what I am saying, it is simply my views for my family’s traditions.
My family and I revamped our Halloween traditions this year. Instead of celebrating Halloween we participated in it in a way to glorify God. My wife dressed up as a princess and my son was a firefighter. We setup a table outside my sister-in-laws house where we handed out bottles of water, gospel tracts, bibles and candy. It was truly awesome and we will continue to do that every year from now on. It is a tradition shared by some of my brothers and sisters in Christ called, “Light in the Night”.
There is without a doubt traces of pagan origins in Halloween and Christmas traditions which is why there is so much hostility. Is it a sin or pagan that my wife and son dressed up, no. Is it a sin for children to go house to house and ask for candy, no. Others see Halloween as Satan’s day and we should have nothing to do it with it. My view is that every day belongs to God and we can use any and every day to bring glory to Him. That is why we did not sit out on Halloween. However, my family will never have Halloween decorations such as witches, devils, ghosts and such, nor will my child ever dress as something of the sort. As a Christian family it is our personal conviction to never celebrate or participate in the occult side of the holiday. It really shouldn’t even be considered a holiday because there is nothing “holy” about it, lol. Now onto Christmas!
I have always been a big Christmas guru caught up in the “magic” and commercialism of Christmas, big time. Becoming a Christian has changed my views on the holiday a bit. Believe it or not, there are many Christians out there that view Christmas the same way as Halloween, whether it was because Christ was most likely not born on December 25th, the Catholic church tried to replace a pagan holiday with Christmas, and other traditions that are rooted in pagan origins on December 25th. Is it true? Yes. Are there Christian traditions on Christmas as well? Yes.
This is the position my family will take on December 25th. We will celebrate the birth of Christ as He was God’s greatest gift to the world. It doesn’t matter if it was the day He was literally born on or not, because we do not know for sure. Everyday we should celebrate Jesus Christ, and this is a day that is allegedly recognized for that, so yes we are going to celebrate, recognize, and promote the true meaning.
Now this may offend you if you haven’t been already. We will not have Santa decorations in our house or play the Santa game with our child. There, I said it. So why have I taken this position? I don’t think people who do the Santa game are evil, pagan, or anything like that at all. But for me personally it has taken away from celebrating Christ in a time where He should be the center point. For my family, I don’t believe a holiday about Christ should be shared with a magical man that is not real. Yes, there was a real St. Nicholas and I highly doubt he would approve of the way he has been esteemed and commercialized on a holiday that is supposed to celebrate Jesus Christ whom He served.
Both of our parents did the Santa Clause with us so it’s not because we were raised differently than other people. I care more about my son knowing truth and the full glory of Jesus Christ rather than lying to him about a man coming down our chimney to leave presents depending on his behavior. It’s something I personally cannot and will not do.
Does this mean that my family is going to go around saying Santa isn’t real or protesting any who do the Santa game? No. Can a family honor Christ and partake in the Santa game with all the traditions? Sure they can, I personally think it’s harder to have most of the emphasis on Christ, but again it is up to the family. We aren’t going to shelter our children from the world either. We just aren’t going to reinforce it in our home. We will probably come up with more of our own traditions honoring Christ throughout the years as a family. These are some of the things we will be doing.
We will still have decorations such as a tree, Christmas lights, snowmen, nativity scenes, and stockings. We will still do a couple of presents as well, but we won’t say that Santa Claus put them there. None of these things such as the tree and lights are idols or superstitious to us as they were when they were considered pagan traditions long ago. Most people nowadays don’t consider them that way either. A good quote from an article I’ll leave a link to is this: “What is important is not the origins of traditions, but their significance to us today as believers in the Son of God.”
We will also sing Christmas carols, a couple songs will be excluded, read the story of the birth of Christ in the bible, make a birthday cake for Jesus, give bibles, tracts, and of course pray and give thanks. We will even probably read the true story of Saint Nicholas, as he was a great Christian man who gave gifts anonymously and generously. My wife and I have made it a tradition since we have been married to have some kind of charitable drive or project we participate in every Christmas so that is something we will include our children in as well.
These are my views on Halloween and Christmas. You can probably assume what they are regarding the Easter bunny after reading all this, lol. Being a rather new creature in Christ, I was greatly concerned with what I should participate in and what I shouldn’t. As a Christian I found myself lost and wanted to make sure I wasn’t doing anything wrong and that I would be giving glory to God. There are a lot of sites and books out there that are very legalistic, presented in an ugly way, and hateful about what we should and shouldn’t do as Christians. I have gone though much prayer and many headaches, but I have reached this conclusion for my family that I am sharing with you. Hopefully, this may help you as well if you have the same concerns that I do.
This article and site is one of the best I believe on the subject. http://www.gotquestions.org/Christmas-traditions.html This ministry has written other good articles as well about the holidays and other common questions.
If you have any good suggestions or sites on Christian traditions I would love to hear them.
Thanks and God bless you!
In Christ,
Joey
As I have researched extensively and witnessed already, this is an extremely controversial subject for many Christians. I will probably take some heat for this one I’m sure. This will be my first Christmas as a born-again Christian. In this article I am not knocking anybody or anyone’s beliefs, but you may disagree with what I say. So please understand I am not being dogmatic or legalistic in what I am saying, it is simply my views for my family’s traditions.
My family and I revamped our Halloween traditions this year. Instead of celebrating Halloween we participated in it in a way to glorify God. My wife dressed up as a princess and my son was a firefighter. We setup a table outside my sister-in-laws house where we handed out bottles of water, gospel tracts, bibles and candy. It was truly awesome and we will continue to do that every year from now on. It is a tradition shared by some of my brothers and sisters in Christ called, “Light in the Night”.
There is without a doubt traces of pagan origins in Halloween and Christmas traditions which is why there is so much hostility. Is it a sin or pagan that my wife and son dressed up, no. Is it a sin for children to go house to house and ask for candy, no. Others see Halloween as Satan’s day and we should have nothing to do it with it. My view is that every day belongs to God and we can use any and every day to bring glory to Him. That is why we did not sit out on Halloween. However, my family will never have Halloween decorations such as witches, devils, ghosts and such, nor will my child ever dress as something of the sort. As a Christian family it is our personal conviction to never celebrate or participate in the occult side of the holiday. It really shouldn’t even be considered a holiday because there is nothing “holy” about it, lol. Now onto Christmas!
I have always been a big Christmas guru caught up in the “magic” and commercialism of Christmas, big time. Becoming a Christian has changed my views on the holiday a bit. Believe it or not, there are many Christians out there that view Christmas the same way as Halloween, whether it was because Christ was most likely not born on December 25th, the Catholic church tried to replace a pagan holiday with Christmas, and other traditions that are rooted in pagan origins on December 25th. Is it true? Yes. Are there Christian traditions on Christmas as well? Yes.
This is the position my family will take on December 25th. We will celebrate the birth of Christ as He was God’s greatest gift to the world. It doesn’t matter if it was the day He was literally born on or not, because we do not know for sure. Everyday we should celebrate Jesus Christ, and this is a day that is allegedly recognized for that, so yes we are going to celebrate, recognize, and promote the true meaning.
Now this may offend you if you haven’t been already. We will not have Santa decorations in our house or play the Santa game with our child. There, I said it. So why have I taken this position? I don’t think people who do the Santa game are evil, pagan, or anything like that at all. But for me personally it has taken away from celebrating Christ in a time where He should be the center point. For my family, I don’t believe a holiday about Christ should be shared with a magical man that is not real. Yes, there was a real St. Nicholas and I highly doubt he would approve of the way he has been esteemed and commercialized on a holiday that is supposed to celebrate Jesus Christ whom He served.
Both of our parents did the Santa Clause with us so it’s not because we were raised differently than other people. I care more about my son knowing truth and the full glory of Jesus Christ rather than lying to him about a man coming down our chimney to leave presents depending on his behavior. It’s something I personally cannot and will not do.
Does this mean that my family is going to go around saying Santa isn’t real or protesting any who do the Santa game? No. Can a family honor Christ and partake in the Santa game with all the traditions? Sure they can, I personally think it’s harder to have most of the emphasis on Christ, but again it is up to the family. We aren’t going to shelter our children from the world either. We just aren’t going to reinforce it in our home. We will probably come up with more of our own traditions honoring Christ throughout the years as a family. These are some of the things we will be doing.
We will still have decorations such as a tree, Christmas lights, snowmen, nativity scenes, and stockings. We will still do a couple of presents as well, but we won’t say that Santa Claus put them there. None of these things such as the tree and lights are idols or superstitious to us as they were when they were considered pagan traditions long ago. Most people nowadays don’t consider them that way either. A good quote from an article I’ll leave a link to is this: “What is important is not the origins of traditions, but their significance to us today as believers in the Son of God.”
We will also sing Christmas carols, a couple songs will be excluded, read the story of the birth of Christ in the bible, make a birthday cake for Jesus, give bibles, tracts, and of course pray and give thanks. We will even probably read the true story of Saint Nicholas, as he was a great Christian man who gave gifts anonymously and generously. My wife and I have made it a tradition since we have been married to have some kind of charitable drive or project we participate in every Christmas so that is something we will include our children in as well.
These are my views on Halloween and Christmas. You can probably assume what they are regarding the Easter bunny after reading all this, lol. Being a rather new creature in Christ, I was greatly concerned with what I should participate in and what I shouldn’t. As a Christian I found myself lost and wanted to make sure I wasn’t doing anything wrong and that I would be giving glory to God. There are a lot of sites and books out there that are very legalistic, presented in an ugly way, and hateful about what we should and shouldn’t do as Christians. I have gone though much prayer and many headaches, but I have reached this conclusion for my family that I am sharing with you. Hopefully, this may help you as well if you have the same concerns that I do.
This article and site is one of the best I believe on the subject. http://www.gotquestions.org/Christmas-traditions.html This ministry has written other good articles as well about the holidays and other common questions.
If you have any good suggestions or sites on Christian traditions I would love to hear them.
Thanks and God bless you!
In Christ,
Joey
Sunday, November 15, 2009
Evangelism, agnosticism, and apologetics ...
Yesterday as my wife and I ran our errands I noticed they started putting little clear boxes on top of gas station pumps that say "TAKE ONE". I don't know why they have them or if there is supposed to be something in them, but I was so excited at the opportunity so I put money tracts in them at 2 different gas stations. What an opportunity to get the gospel into the hands of others!
We also went to Bass Pro Shop to check out all the Christmas activities and decorations going on. Evangelism idea: my wife and I usually carry one dollar bills with million dollar bills (tracts). You don't have to use real money, but we like to. Whenever we are at a check out or somebody helps us we try to give them a one dollar bill with a million dollar tract. We just say thank you, hand them the dollar and tract, and tell them we wish the million dollar bill was real, but the message on the back is! People love getting them without a dollar as well! We were able to do this with the ladies at the booth selling fudge.
Later that evening, I went to witness at the Harbor earlier than usual. It was amazing how much God was at work. For those who don't know, the Harbor is kind of like an outdoor mall right off the lake. There is a pier, lighthouse, amphitheater, movie theater, fountains, and other neat hang out spots. There are usually musical acts going on, crazy acting teenagers, and other random events. There is actually a Michael Jackson impersonator who goes up there and dances around 8 on Saturdays, lol. The pier is not lit anymore for some reason so I strayed away from there a bit as there were lots of serious elderly and teenage PDA going on amidst the shadows...*shudders*
When I go witnessing I can't stay in one spot. I am usually constantly moving around until I engage someone in a conversation. Thankfully there is a lot of land to walk around. Anyways, I started talking to two guys who didn't say much, but showed an understanding of what I was telling them, the law and gospel of Jesus Christ. I moved on and talked to more groups of people and some couples. There were 2 big guys wearing Halloween masks trying to act funny and get attention from lots of people. Last time they were up there they stopped and listened to a conversation I was having with a different group of boys, but they wound up walking off throughout the middle of it. Some people were getting mad that they wouldn't take the masks off while we were all talking which is another reason I think they left.
Thank the Lord they came into my path again, they remembered who I was, and I was able to finish what I started. They are funny, because they don't ever talk. They are like Halloween mimes, but they wound up showing that they appreciated what was said. We shook hands and parted ways. Pray that the Lord does a work on their hearts.
Last night was a little different than usual. There was a little more hostility in the air...not anything serious, but usually the overall tone isn't like it was last night. Usually when I talk to a group of people sometimes there is one person who is acting like they are tuning me out by checking their phone or texting. One girl kept making rude gestures and was obvious she didn't like what I was saying through her actions. When the conversation was over she wound up saying, "we all go to a Christian private school so we already know all this". It was evident the other two did not. Pray that they would see the severity of repentance and trust in Christ alone for their salvation.
I was blessed enough to have many other interesting conversations, but this one that I had with a young couple stuck out to me greatly. I’ll try to sum it up:
“Hey guys how’s it going, did you get one of these”?
“No, a million bucks? Cool, I’m rich”!!!
“Yeah, I wish it was real. It asks the million dollar question on the back. What do you think happens after we die?”
The girl says, “We go to Heaven.” The boy replies, “I think we all just go in the ground.” The girl looks shocked, but jokingly said their relationship is over.
“Alright, well if you believe in heaven, then what about hell”?
The girl said, “yes”.
“Well who goes there”?
“Bad people”.
“So are you guys good enough to go to heaven”?
The girl looked uncertain, but the guy said, “I’m agnostic so it doesn’t matter”.
“Oh, okay. So you don’t know if there is a God.”
He said, loudly and rather flamboyantly, “I don’t know if there is a God and I don’t care!!!”
“Alright, well let’s say that the bible IS real for just a minute despite what you believe because this is serious”.
“Okay”.
I went through a series of questions asking, “have you ever lied….stolen anything…said God’s name in vain which is blasphemy and very serious in His eyes, looked with lust, Christ says that is committing adultery in your heart.”
They said yes to all of them one by one.
“Alright, well based on that standard, since you told me you are a liar, thief, blasphemer and adulterer at heart, if God judged us by that would we deserves heaven or hell for breaking that law?”
The girl replied “hell”, but tried to argue that Christ died for us so no one will go there. The conviction of the law got to the boy and he started getting really defensive.
He replied, “it doesn’t matter because I don’t believe it. “
He led me down some rabbit trails that I fell for such as asking about King Henry the IV, origin of religions, the authenticity of the bible, and morality. I answered all of his questions, but he really didn’t care if I had the answers or not. I unfortunately got into some extensive apologetics (defending Christianity) which is sometimes beneficial, but this guy was doing everything to avoid talking about his eternal destination. Some people really have genuine questions, but this guy was just throwing me off.
He constantly contradicted himself saying he believed what I was saying, but he won’t back Christianity because it hates homosexuality. Usually when someone is so strong about a point like that it is because they have loved ones who are that way or they are trying to take the emphasis off themselves. I have talked to individuals who are homosexual and bisexual and they were never even defensive. They were very nice, courteous, and actually appreciated what I was telling them, but this guy was so hung up on it which shocked me.
“Listen, God hates all sin the same regardless if it is homosexuality, lying, stealing, murdering or what not. He is so good and just that He sees it all the same as sin. The fact that you don’t back Christianity is not going to change the truth of the word of God. I’m not trying to sell you religion, but I am telling you what Christ did so you don’t have to suffer the hell that we all rightly deserve. Regarding homosexuality; man and woman were designed to be together, not man and man or woman and woman. That is God’s design for marriage. We can clearly see that through the design of reproduction and the consequences through aids and other diseases.
He replied, “sorry, I just disagree with you. I think murderers are wrong and they should go to hell, but not for homosexuality.”
“You think it’s wrong because of your personal beliefs and morality. Murderers don’t think murder is wrong. Our sense of morality is greatly flawed; God’s law is perfect no matter how much we don’t agree with it.”
His girl friend kept trying to pull him away the whole time because he was getting really flustered and rather loud.
He insisted that he is nice, he’s nice to people, and he doesn’t do anything wrong and that is all really anyone can do.
“Listen, if there is no God we turn to dust and there is no standard of morality. If it is real there is absolute morality and there is a hell that is everlasting torment and there is a heaven. Please just consider what I’m saying right now. Look in your bible to John to check out what I’m saying. There is nothing more important than what happens after you die.”
“Alright, I’ll consider it.” And we parted ways.
Please pray for this couple. It disturbed me greatly and still does. Pray that God will unharden their hearts and that they would repent and put their trust in Christ.
On a lighter note I met a girl that was with a rowdy group of guys from a couple weeks ago when we met. She remembered me and said we’re on the same page now and that her and her friends left those guys after we all talked. So hopefully God really changed her heart!
Some random big guy also gave me a hug for giving him a million dollar bill, lol, silly teenagers.
All in all, I am so thankful for the opportunity Christ gives us to spread His gospel. We have to step out and do it though. I learned some valuable lessons and was reminded of some last night. Not everyone who says they are a Christian is one, don’t go down rabbit trails, the true gospel will offend others, but we can do all things through Christ who gives us strength. All the glory to the Lord, Jesus Christ!
Thanks for reading and may God bless you and yours!
In Christ,
Joey
We also went to Bass Pro Shop to check out all the Christmas activities and decorations going on. Evangelism idea: my wife and I usually carry one dollar bills with million dollar bills (tracts). You don't have to use real money, but we like to. Whenever we are at a check out or somebody helps us we try to give them a one dollar bill with a million dollar tract. We just say thank you, hand them the dollar and tract, and tell them we wish the million dollar bill was real, but the message on the back is! People love getting them without a dollar as well! We were able to do this with the ladies at the booth selling fudge.
Later that evening, I went to witness at the Harbor earlier than usual. It was amazing how much God was at work. For those who don't know, the Harbor is kind of like an outdoor mall right off the lake. There is a pier, lighthouse, amphitheater, movie theater, fountains, and other neat hang out spots. There are usually musical acts going on, crazy acting teenagers, and other random events. There is actually a Michael Jackson impersonator who goes up there and dances around 8 on Saturdays, lol. The pier is not lit anymore for some reason so I strayed away from there a bit as there were lots of serious elderly and teenage PDA going on amidst the shadows...*shudders*
When I go witnessing I can't stay in one spot. I am usually constantly moving around until I engage someone in a conversation. Thankfully there is a lot of land to walk around. Anyways, I started talking to two guys who didn't say much, but showed an understanding of what I was telling them, the law and gospel of Jesus Christ. I moved on and talked to more groups of people and some couples. There were 2 big guys wearing Halloween masks trying to act funny and get attention from lots of people. Last time they were up there they stopped and listened to a conversation I was having with a different group of boys, but they wound up walking off throughout the middle of it. Some people were getting mad that they wouldn't take the masks off while we were all talking which is another reason I think they left.
Thank the Lord they came into my path again, they remembered who I was, and I was able to finish what I started. They are funny, because they don't ever talk. They are like Halloween mimes, but they wound up showing that they appreciated what was said. We shook hands and parted ways. Pray that the Lord does a work on their hearts.
Last night was a little different than usual. There was a little more hostility in the air...not anything serious, but usually the overall tone isn't like it was last night. Usually when I talk to a group of people sometimes there is one person who is acting like they are tuning me out by checking their phone or texting. One girl kept making rude gestures and was obvious she didn't like what I was saying through her actions. When the conversation was over she wound up saying, "we all go to a Christian private school so we already know all this". It was evident the other two did not. Pray that they would see the severity of repentance and trust in Christ alone for their salvation.
I was blessed enough to have many other interesting conversations, but this one that I had with a young couple stuck out to me greatly. I’ll try to sum it up:
“Hey guys how’s it going, did you get one of these”?
“No, a million bucks? Cool, I’m rich”!!!
“Yeah, I wish it was real. It asks the million dollar question on the back. What do you think happens after we die?”
The girl says, “We go to Heaven.” The boy replies, “I think we all just go in the ground.” The girl looks shocked, but jokingly said their relationship is over.
“Alright, well if you believe in heaven, then what about hell”?
The girl said, “yes”.
“Well who goes there”?
“Bad people”.
“So are you guys good enough to go to heaven”?
The girl looked uncertain, but the guy said, “I’m agnostic so it doesn’t matter”.
“Oh, okay. So you don’t know if there is a God.”
He said, loudly and rather flamboyantly, “I don’t know if there is a God and I don’t care!!!”
“Alright, well let’s say that the bible IS real for just a minute despite what you believe because this is serious”.
“Okay”.
I went through a series of questions asking, “have you ever lied….stolen anything…said God’s name in vain which is blasphemy and very serious in His eyes, looked with lust, Christ says that is committing adultery in your heart.”
They said yes to all of them one by one.
“Alright, well based on that standard, since you told me you are a liar, thief, blasphemer and adulterer at heart, if God judged us by that would we deserves heaven or hell for breaking that law?”
The girl replied “hell”, but tried to argue that Christ died for us so no one will go there. The conviction of the law got to the boy and he started getting really defensive.
He replied, “it doesn’t matter because I don’t believe it. “
He led me down some rabbit trails that I fell for such as asking about King Henry the IV, origin of religions, the authenticity of the bible, and morality. I answered all of his questions, but he really didn’t care if I had the answers or not. I unfortunately got into some extensive apologetics (defending Christianity) which is sometimes beneficial, but this guy was doing everything to avoid talking about his eternal destination. Some people really have genuine questions, but this guy was just throwing me off.
He constantly contradicted himself saying he believed what I was saying, but he won’t back Christianity because it hates homosexuality. Usually when someone is so strong about a point like that it is because they have loved ones who are that way or they are trying to take the emphasis off themselves. I have talked to individuals who are homosexual and bisexual and they were never even defensive. They were very nice, courteous, and actually appreciated what I was telling them, but this guy was so hung up on it which shocked me.
“Listen, God hates all sin the same regardless if it is homosexuality, lying, stealing, murdering or what not. He is so good and just that He sees it all the same as sin. The fact that you don’t back Christianity is not going to change the truth of the word of God. I’m not trying to sell you religion, but I am telling you what Christ did so you don’t have to suffer the hell that we all rightly deserve. Regarding homosexuality; man and woman were designed to be together, not man and man or woman and woman. That is God’s design for marriage. We can clearly see that through the design of reproduction and the consequences through aids and other diseases.
He replied, “sorry, I just disagree with you. I think murderers are wrong and they should go to hell, but not for homosexuality.”
“You think it’s wrong because of your personal beliefs and morality. Murderers don’t think murder is wrong. Our sense of morality is greatly flawed; God’s law is perfect no matter how much we don’t agree with it.”
His girl friend kept trying to pull him away the whole time because he was getting really flustered and rather loud.
He insisted that he is nice, he’s nice to people, and he doesn’t do anything wrong and that is all really anyone can do.
“Listen, if there is no God we turn to dust and there is no standard of morality. If it is real there is absolute morality and there is a hell that is everlasting torment and there is a heaven. Please just consider what I’m saying right now. Look in your bible to John to check out what I’m saying. There is nothing more important than what happens after you die.”
“Alright, I’ll consider it.” And we parted ways.
Please pray for this couple. It disturbed me greatly and still does. Pray that God will unharden their hearts and that they would repent and put their trust in Christ.
On a lighter note I met a girl that was with a rowdy group of guys from a couple weeks ago when we met. She remembered me and said we’re on the same page now and that her and her friends left those guys after we all talked. So hopefully God really changed her heart!
Some random big guy also gave me a hug for giving him a million dollar bill, lol, silly teenagers.
All in all, I am so thankful for the opportunity Christ gives us to spread His gospel. We have to step out and do it though. I learned some valuable lessons and was reminded of some last night. Not everyone who says they are a Christian is one, don’t go down rabbit trails, the true gospel will offend others, but we can do all things through Christ who gives us strength. All the glory to the Lord, Jesus Christ!
Thanks for reading and may God bless you and yours!
In Christ,
Joey
Sunday, November 1, 2009
What are gospel tracts and why use them?
I've been meaning to post this for a while! So what are tracts and why use them?
*There are tracts that are unbiblical, but everything I am referring to in this post is regarding biblical tracts*
A biblical gospel tract is a piece of literature that contains the law and the gospel of the bible. They come in many shapes and forms.
Here's an example:
(The Law)
Will you go to heaven when you die? Here's a quick test. Have you ever told a lie, stolen anything, or used God's name in vain? Jesus said, "whoever looks at a woman to lust for her has already committed adultery with her in his heart." Have you looked with lust? Will you be guilty on judgment day? If you have done those things, God sees you as a lying, thieving, blasphemous, adulter at heart. The bible warns that if you are guilty you will end up in hell. That's not God's will.
(The Gospel)
He sent His son to suffer and die on the cross for you. You broke God's law, but Jesus paid your fine. That means he can commute your death sentence. "For God so loved the world that He gave His only begotten son, that whoever believes in Him should not perish, but have everlasting life." Then He rose from the dead and defeated death. Please, repent (turn from sin) today and trust alone in Jesus, and God will grant you the gift of everlasting life. Then read your bible daily and obey it.
(From the Million Dollar Bill Tract from www.livingwaters.com)
I'll be honest, before I was a born again Christian I thought tracts were annoying, silly, would push people away and thought ugly things of people who left them places. I had those thoughts even when I thought and called myself a Christian.
Once God changed my heart I immediately wanted to tell the world and share my faith however I could, especially after it commands that of us in the bible. The problem was, I was immensly shy. I began to look at gospel tracts completely different. The true gospel does push some people away. There is no getting around it. Jesus Christ would not have been crucified if everyone agreed with what He said and how He said it. 11 of the 12 apostles would not have been martyrd either. As Christians we too often say, "that pushes people away", when we don't agree with something OR we wouldn't do it ourselves.
Most of the people who criticize tracts and tell others how not to share their faith are usually the ones who don't share their faith at all. That's how I was and those who I have encountered.
I've been using tracts since January and I truly believe that every Christian should use tracts. Am I saying you're bad or not a good Christian if you don't, no, but we are ALL called to spread the gospel by all means. Having good biblical tracts is a very useful tool in the field of evangelism. Let's look at why in more detail:
Why should you give out tracts? Here are 10 reasons:
They are a very economical form of evangelism
They work while we sleep
They have the ability to get into a house and stay there
They are never afraid or show cowardice
They are never tempted to compromise their message
They never get tired, discouraged or give up
They stick to what they have to say and never argue
They can present the message when we don't have time
They can go to places where we cannot
They get people in the mood – they only speak when they are read
When giving out tracts don't ask, "Would you like one of these?" They will probably just say "No", or "What is it?"
Instead ask, "Did you get one of these?" That makes the person feel that he is missing out on something, and it also stirs up curiosity. Try it...it really works!
If you know the person, ask for their opinion of the tract's content. If you are too shy to give out tracts, mail them when paying bills or just leave them where they will be found.
Many people have been saved through tracts, including the great missionary Hudson Taylor. Make tracts a habit for life!
(From www.onemilliontracts.com)
At first I was embarassed to leave tracts places or hand them out. Every reason and doubt I have for witnessing or using tracts is always a selfish one.
Now I always have at least one tract on me. And I never cease to be amazed at how God will use the tract that I put in my pocket every morning. Everyone will share their faith in their own way, but I really want to emphasize on how easy and effective using tracts can be! Whether you leave a tract some place or put them in the hand of someone else, you are spreading the gospel. Praise God for the invention of the printing press : )
I hope that you will at least try it out and then pray that someone will read and be transformed by the power of the Holy Spirit through the gospel of Lord and Savior Jesus Christ!
Here is a great article on tracts. http://www.christiananswers.net/evangelism/methods/tracts.html
www.livingwaters.com, www.customtractsource.com, and www.onemilliontracts.com have good deals on purchasing gospel tracts.
If you have any questions feel free to e-mail me anytime!
Thank you so much for reading and may God bless you and yours!
In Christ,
Joey
*There are tracts that are unbiblical, but everything I am referring to in this post is regarding biblical tracts*
A biblical gospel tract is a piece of literature that contains the law and the gospel of the bible. They come in many shapes and forms.
Here's an example:
(The Law)
Will you go to heaven when you die? Here's a quick test. Have you ever told a lie, stolen anything, or used God's name in vain? Jesus said, "whoever looks at a woman to lust for her has already committed adultery with her in his heart." Have you looked with lust? Will you be guilty on judgment day? If you have done those things, God sees you as a lying, thieving, blasphemous, adulter at heart. The bible warns that if you are guilty you will end up in hell. That's not God's will.
(The Gospel)
He sent His son to suffer and die on the cross for you. You broke God's law, but Jesus paid your fine. That means he can commute your death sentence. "For God so loved the world that He gave His only begotten son, that whoever believes in Him should not perish, but have everlasting life." Then He rose from the dead and defeated death. Please, repent (turn from sin) today and trust alone in Jesus, and God will grant you the gift of everlasting life. Then read your bible daily and obey it.
(From the Million Dollar Bill Tract from www.livingwaters.com)
I'll be honest, before I was a born again Christian I thought tracts were annoying, silly, would push people away and thought ugly things of people who left them places. I had those thoughts even when I thought and called myself a Christian.
Once God changed my heart I immediately wanted to tell the world and share my faith however I could, especially after it commands that of us in the bible. The problem was, I was immensly shy. I began to look at gospel tracts completely different. The true gospel does push some people away. There is no getting around it. Jesus Christ would not have been crucified if everyone agreed with what He said and how He said it. 11 of the 12 apostles would not have been martyrd either. As Christians we too often say, "that pushes people away", when we don't agree with something OR we wouldn't do it ourselves.
Most of the people who criticize tracts and tell others how not to share their faith are usually the ones who don't share their faith at all. That's how I was and those who I have encountered.
I've been using tracts since January and I truly believe that every Christian should use tracts. Am I saying you're bad or not a good Christian if you don't, no, but we are ALL called to spread the gospel by all means. Having good biblical tracts is a very useful tool in the field of evangelism. Let's look at why in more detail:
Why should you give out tracts? Here are 10 reasons:
They are a very economical form of evangelism
They work while we sleep
They have the ability to get into a house and stay there
They are never afraid or show cowardice
They are never tempted to compromise their message
They never get tired, discouraged or give up
They stick to what they have to say and never argue
They can present the message when we don't have time
They can go to places where we cannot
They get people in the mood – they only speak when they are read
When giving out tracts don't ask, "Would you like one of these?" They will probably just say "No", or "What is it?"
Instead ask, "Did you get one of these?" That makes the person feel that he is missing out on something, and it also stirs up curiosity. Try it...it really works!
If you know the person, ask for their opinion of the tract's content. If you are too shy to give out tracts, mail them when paying bills or just leave them where they will be found.
Many people have been saved through tracts, including the great missionary Hudson Taylor. Make tracts a habit for life!
(From www.onemilliontracts.com)
At first I was embarassed to leave tracts places or hand them out. Every reason and doubt I have for witnessing or using tracts is always a selfish one.
Now I always have at least one tract on me. And I never cease to be amazed at how God will use the tract that I put in my pocket every morning. Everyone will share their faith in their own way, but I really want to emphasize on how easy and effective using tracts can be! Whether you leave a tract some place or put them in the hand of someone else, you are spreading the gospel. Praise God for the invention of the printing press : )
I hope that you will at least try it out and then pray that someone will read and be transformed by the power of the Holy Spirit through the gospel of Lord and Savior Jesus Christ!
Here is a great article on tracts. http://www.christiananswers.net/evangelism/methods/tracts.html
www.livingwaters.com, www.customtractsource.com, and www.onemilliontracts.com have good deals on purchasing gospel tracts.
If you have any questions feel free to e-mail me anytime!
Thank you so much for reading and may God bless you and yours!
In Christ,
Joey
Saturday, October 24, 2009
My thoughts on parenting today...
My thoughts on parenting today…
I have a 2 year old who my wife and I love dearly. I don’t proclaim to be a parenting expert, or expert on anything I say or write for that matter. I’m a Christian who simply reads and studies the bible with striving to love the Lord whole-heartedly everyday. I am also privileged to work with children of various ages everyday (except the last 2 summers!) for the last 6 years. With that being said I have some thoughts on parenting today. Many of you may think I’m harsh or disagree, but I want to ask you to please be patient and read what I have to say before judging.
Working with children for years, studying parenting and discipline, becoming a Christian, and having my own toddler has leaded me to some conclusions that I think are vital in society today, especially the Christian one. I love working with and mentoring children. Not just because it is fulfilling or gives you a sense of joy to have an impact on someone else’s life. They are just simply unique, creative, wonderful, and still maintain that innocence that we lose in our teenage years and adult-hood that we shouldn’t. They see the world in a whole different light than many of us do and often remind us of that through their outlook and actions in life.
I believe one of the biggest problems today in parenting is relationship. What I mean is the relationships amongst parents and children are not what they used to be like. Parents used to be parents, not a friend or a supplier to their child’s earthly desires. A child is someone who lives UNDER the husband or wife. Not someone the family revolves around.
I believe, especially now, the design of the family, the way God intended it, is being twisted. According to scripture this should be our order of priorities; God, spouse, children, parents, extended family, brothers and sisters in Christ, and then the rest of the world.
You can actually see through TV programs through out the years how the priorities are greatly changing. How did we go from Leave it to Beaver and Andy Griffith to My Sweet 16 and other reality shows where the parents are sacrificing for their child’s happiness? We live in a generation where children are being severely spoiled regardless of their level of income. Children have this outlook that everything should revolve around them and I believe it’s making a standard to all parents that they simply cannot achieve, at least without sacrificing financially, mentally, or physically.
I want to emphasize that I’m not saying TV is bad or trying to make your child happy is wrong. But I believe the extent parents are going to please a child are ridiculous today. The happiest people are the one’s who are humbled and realize their blessings no matter what they are in comparison to others. I truly believe that. A lot of parents are catering to a child’s desires like many “Christians” think God should cater to theirs. God is not a divine butler and neither are parents. That is not the design and when you try to mess with that you will see the repercussions.
Being a parent is a noble, privileged, and rewarding responsibility. Yes, it is trying at times, but a quote I like to use often is, “if you find a path with no obstacles, it probably doesn’t lead anywhere”. Isn’t that the truth? If everything was fine and dandy all the time then there would be no room for growth or we wouldn’t be able to appreciate what we have accomplished. God strengthens us through our weaknesses.
I want to go back to what I said though, it is OUR responsibility. A school, day care, TV program, or anything else will not raise your children. They will have influences on them, which are why we should guard our children to a certain extent, but it is still our responsibility.
Today most children find out things they shouldn’t be finding out from other children because A. Parents haven’t told them yet B. They are not comfortable with telling them C. They do not care and decides to leave it up to someone else. D. A combination of two or three of these. Then when a child picks up a practice or idea that is not right from someone else, parents begin to point the finger at everyone, but themselves. It’s crazy! Rather than getting mad as parents we should either prevent the problem by talking with them or address it with our children when it happens.
Again, I am not saying to keep your kid out of day care and school. I am simply emphasizing that we need to make more time for our children personally whether that is having them play less sports, lessons, or limiting TV time.
Everyone watching a TV program together isn’t really spending “quality” time together. You’re in the same room, but there is no communication going on. It’s kind of like when people that don’t know each other go on a date to the movies. They are sitting there, but are they really getting to know each other? My family and I do watch TV together, but we also have devotionals. Meaning, we’ll all lie on the floor together and play, talk, read, cuddle, anything that lets our child know we are paying attention to him. We also read the bible to him everyday. It doesn’t matter if he understands it or not, but he will grow up understanding that it is important to read and obey God’s word. It’s about engaging in quality interactive time with the child.
As parents we should be giving children this kind of attention (not necessarily lying on the floor) at any age. I’ve worked with a lot of children and seen a lot of behavior issues. I’m convinced the #1 problem is parenting. Yes, I know ADHD and ADD exist, but that is not what causes the kind of disrespect, defiance, and laziness that are unacceptable and on the rise. There are many “excuses” for these issues, but what it all boils down to is simply parenting and lack of true discipline. I may have to write a whole other blog on discipline, but that’s for another day!
I am not saying parenting is easy because it’s not and if it is then maybe we’re doing something wrong. Every child is unique and different so we may have to address them differently, but in a consistent way. The main point is that we are addressing them properly and regularly rather than just when problems pop up.
Our children learn the most by watching what we do, another reason to examine ourselves often. For Christians, being good parents is all about raising children who will follow your example in obeying and worshiping the Lord.
Here is what the Bible has to say about parenting:
Proverbs 19:18
Discipline your son, for in that there is hope;
do not be a willing party to his death.
Hebrews 12:11:
All discipline for the moment seems not to be joyful, but sorrowful; yet to those who have been trained by it, afterwards it yields the peaceful fruit of righteousness.
Ephesians 6:4
And you, fathers, do not provoke your children to wrath, but bring them up in the training and admonition of the Lord.
Proverbs 22:6
Train up a child in the way he should go, And when he is old he will not depart from it
Colossians 3:21
Fathers, do not provoke your children, lest they become discouraged.
I think if we want to be good parents whether you are a Christian or not you have to look at your priorities, and how you treat your husband or wife, and that will reflect the kind of parent you truly are. Children are not ignorant to our behavior. They pick up on every little thing we do. They are brutally honest at times, and very, very perceptive. If they see us treating our spouse negatively then why should we expect them to treat anyone differently?
I want the best for children and parents because I do understand the frustrations and trials of dealing with these issues. More importantly I understand and see the rewards and growth that takes place when children are having parent-relationship needs met.
Thanks for reading and God bless you!
In Christ,
Joey
(This is a little hard to watch, but so true)
I have a 2 year old who my wife and I love dearly. I don’t proclaim to be a parenting expert, or expert on anything I say or write for that matter. I’m a Christian who simply reads and studies the bible with striving to love the Lord whole-heartedly everyday. I am also privileged to work with children of various ages everyday (except the last 2 summers!) for the last 6 years. With that being said I have some thoughts on parenting today. Many of you may think I’m harsh or disagree, but I want to ask you to please be patient and read what I have to say before judging.
Working with children for years, studying parenting and discipline, becoming a Christian, and having my own toddler has leaded me to some conclusions that I think are vital in society today, especially the Christian one. I love working with and mentoring children. Not just because it is fulfilling or gives you a sense of joy to have an impact on someone else’s life. They are just simply unique, creative, wonderful, and still maintain that innocence that we lose in our teenage years and adult-hood that we shouldn’t. They see the world in a whole different light than many of us do and often remind us of that through their outlook and actions in life.
I believe one of the biggest problems today in parenting is relationship. What I mean is the relationships amongst parents and children are not what they used to be like. Parents used to be parents, not a friend or a supplier to their child’s earthly desires. A child is someone who lives UNDER the husband or wife. Not someone the family revolves around.
I believe, especially now, the design of the family, the way God intended it, is being twisted. According to scripture this should be our order of priorities; God, spouse, children, parents, extended family, brothers and sisters in Christ, and then the rest of the world.
You can actually see through TV programs through out the years how the priorities are greatly changing. How did we go from Leave it to Beaver and Andy Griffith to My Sweet 16 and other reality shows where the parents are sacrificing for their child’s happiness? We live in a generation where children are being severely spoiled regardless of their level of income. Children have this outlook that everything should revolve around them and I believe it’s making a standard to all parents that they simply cannot achieve, at least without sacrificing financially, mentally, or physically.
I want to emphasize that I’m not saying TV is bad or trying to make your child happy is wrong. But I believe the extent parents are going to please a child are ridiculous today. The happiest people are the one’s who are humbled and realize their blessings no matter what they are in comparison to others. I truly believe that. A lot of parents are catering to a child’s desires like many “Christians” think God should cater to theirs. God is not a divine butler and neither are parents. That is not the design and when you try to mess with that you will see the repercussions.
Being a parent is a noble, privileged, and rewarding responsibility. Yes, it is trying at times, but a quote I like to use often is, “if you find a path with no obstacles, it probably doesn’t lead anywhere”. Isn’t that the truth? If everything was fine and dandy all the time then there would be no room for growth or we wouldn’t be able to appreciate what we have accomplished. God strengthens us through our weaknesses.
I want to go back to what I said though, it is OUR responsibility. A school, day care, TV program, or anything else will not raise your children. They will have influences on them, which are why we should guard our children to a certain extent, but it is still our responsibility.
Today most children find out things they shouldn’t be finding out from other children because A. Parents haven’t told them yet B. They are not comfortable with telling them C. They do not care and decides to leave it up to someone else. D. A combination of two or three of these. Then when a child picks up a practice or idea that is not right from someone else, parents begin to point the finger at everyone, but themselves. It’s crazy! Rather than getting mad as parents we should either prevent the problem by talking with them or address it with our children when it happens.
Again, I am not saying to keep your kid out of day care and school. I am simply emphasizing that we need to make more time for our children personally whether that is having them play less sports, lessons, or limiting TV time.
Everyone watching a TV program together isn’t really spending “quality” time together. You’re in the same room, but there is no communication going on. It’s kind of like when people that don’t know each other go on a date to the movies. They are sitting there, but are they really getting to know each other? My family and I do watch TV together, but we also have devotionals. Meaning, we’ll all lie on the floor together and play, talk, read, cuddle, anything that lets our child know we are paying attention to him. We also read the bible to him everyday. It doesn’t matter if he understands it or not, but he will grow up understanding that it is important to read and obey God’s word. It’s about engaging in quality interactive time with the child.
As parents we should be giving children this kind of attention (not necessarily lying on the floor) at any age. I’ve worked with a lot of children and seen a lot of behavior issues. I’m convinced the #1 problem is parenting. Yes, I know ADHD and ADD exist, but that is not what causes the kind of disrespect, defiance, and laziness that are unacceptable and on the rise. There are many “excuses” for these issues, but what it all boils down to is simply parenting and lack of true discipline. I may have to write a whole other blog on discipline, but that’s for another day!
I am not saying parenting is easy because it’s not and if it is then maybe we’re doing something wrong. Every child is unique and different so we may have to address them differently, but in a consistent way. The main point is that we are addressing them properly and regularly rather than just when problems pop up.
Our children learn the most by watching what we do, another reason to examine ourselves often. For Christians, being good parents is all about raising children who will follow your example in obeying and worshiping the Lord.
Here is what the Bible has to say about parenting:
Proverbs 19:18
Discipline your son, for in that there is hope;
do not be a willing party to his death.
Hebrews 12:11:
All discipline for the moment seems not to be joyful, but sorrowful; yet to those who have been trained by it, afterwards it yields the peaceful fruit of righteousness.
Ephesians 6:4
And you, fathers, do not provoke your children to wrath, but bring them up in the training and admonition of the Lord.
Proverbs 22:6
Train up a child in the way he should go, And when he is old he will not depart from it
Colossians 3:21
Fathers, do not provoke your children, lest they become discouraged.
I think if we want to be good parents whether you are a Christian or not you have to look at your priorities, and how you treat your husband or wife, and that will reflect the kind of parent you truly are. Children are not ignorant to our behavior. They pick up on every little thing we do. They are brutally honest at times, and very, very perceptive. If they see us treating our spouse negatively then why should we expect them to treat anyone differently?
I want the best for children and parents because I do understand the frustrations and trials of dealing with these issues. More importantly I understand and see the rewards and growth that takes place when children are having parent-relationship needs met.
Thanks for reading and God bless you!
In Christ,
Joey
(This is a little hard to watch, but so true)
Wednesday, October 14, 2009
We are what we eat...
I’ve been thinking about this lately. Although it’s somewhat true I want to look at it more on a spiritual level. Of course if we eat apples all the time that doesn’t mean we will turn into an apple, but we will reap the benefits from the nutrition of it, thus being healthier. Just like if we eat cookies, cake, and ice cream all the time we will reap the consequences.
I think this is really a big issue for many, especially those in the Christian world. I know it seems like I’m always attacking modern American Christianity, but I assure you that isn’t the case. I love my fellow brother sisters in Christ and those who are not, or those who think they are but am not. I do this out of love and am trying to be a messenger of truth because I do care and I am a Christian.
Repentance has a lot of different meanings slapped on it to suit certain people’s needs and beliefs. Ultimately it means a change of mind, to turn from something to something else. If we are changing our mind about Jesus Christ being the one true Son then that means we are turning from sin and turning towards Him. That produces a change of heart and a change of lifestyle because of the world we live in and our sinful nature. A lot of people out there like to deny this because they want to hold on to their old sinful lifestyles, but say they are a Christian. That may fool some in the world for a while, but not God.
When I am talking about we are what we eat I mean we are what we consume. I examine myself all the time and ask you to do the same. What do you watch on TV, what music do you listen to, or what kind of magazines and books are you reading? What does the majority of your money and time go to? I’m not perfect and never will be so I have to make changes all the time in order to glorify God more and not give into selfish desires. Repentance is constant and a gift from God that He grants to us to fight the desires of our sin-nature. As Christians we should always be growing.
I used to say, “Well, I guard my heart against stuff like that and it’s just entertainment”. Guess what, God does not ignore our entertainment. Our bodies, physically, mentally, and spiritually are affected by what we consume. It may not be drastic, but over-time there is subtle changes whether we see it or not. If you are having trouble keeping devotionals, praying, or reading your bible then examine what you are substituting for it. What are you spending that time on instead? That’s why the bible says, “And if your eye causes you to sin, pluck it out. It is better for you to enter the kingdom of God with one eye than to have two eyes and be thrown into hell!” That’s how severe it is. Some things we just need to plain cut out of our life.
Satan works in subtle ways. He is the father of lies. There is nothing better than coming to knowing Jesus Christ, but when that happens we are enlisted into a battle against our flesh, the world, and Satan. Sin is designed to be attractive! I plead with you to be careful with what you consume. Those who are interested and devote time to the worldliness are going to become more like the world and further from God. Those who are interested and devote time to the word of God and righteousness are going to grow closer to Him.
If this doesn’t matter to you or the world is more important than God then I strongly question your salvation.
2 Corinthians 13:5
Examine yourselves to see whether you are in the faith; test yourselves. Do you not realize that Christ Jesus is in you—unless, of course, you fail the test?
Thank you and God bless you and yours!
In Christ,
Joey
www.needGod.com
I think this is really a big issue for many, especially those in the Christian world. I know it seems like I’m always attacking modern American Christianity, but I assure you that isn’t the case. I love my fellow brother sisters in Christ and those who are not, or those who think they are but am not. I do this out of love and am trying to be a messenger of truth because I do care and I am a Christian.
Repentance has a lot of different meanings slapped on it to suit certain people’s needs and beliefs. Ultimately it means a change of mind, to turn from something to something else. If we are changing our mind about Jesus Christ being the one true Son then that means we are turning from sin and turning towards Him. That produces a change of heart and a change of lifestyle because of the world we live in and our sinful nature. A lot of people out there like to deny this because they want to hold on to their old sinful lifestyles, but say they are a Christian. That may fool some in the world for a while, but not God.
When I am talking about we are what we eat I mean we are what we consume. I examine myself all the time and ask you to do the same. What do you watch on TV, what music do you listen to, or what kind of magazines and books are you reading? What does the majority of your money and time go to? I’m not perfect and never will be so I have to make changes all the time in order to glorify God more and not give into selfish desires. Repentance is constant and a gift from God that He grants to us to fight the desires of our sin-nature. As Christians we should always be growing.
I used to say, “Well, I guard my heart against stuff like that and it’s just entertainment”. Guess what, God does not ignore our entertainment. Our bodies, physically, mentally, and spiritually are affected by what we consume. It may not be drastic, but over-time there is subtle changes whether we see it or not. If you are having trouble keeping devotionals, praying, or reading your bible then examine what you are substituting for it. What are you spending that time on instead? That’s why the bible says, “And if your eye causes you to sin, pluck it out. It is better for you to enter the kingdom of God with one eye than to have two eyes and be thrown into hell!” That’s how severe it is. Some things we just need to plain cut out of our life.
Satan works in subtle ways. He is the father of lies. There is nothing better than coming to knowing Jesus Christ, but when that happens we are enlisted into a battle against our flesh, the world, and Satan. Sin is designed to be attractive! I plead with you to be careful with what you consume. Those who are interested and devote time to the worldliness are going to become more like the world and further from God. Those who are interested and devote time to the word of God and righteousness are going to grow closer to Him.
If this doesn’t matter to you or the world is more important than God then I strongly question your salvation.
2 Corinthians 13:5
Examine yourselves to see whether you are in the faith; test yourselves. Do you not realize that Christ Jesus is in you—unless, of course, you fail the test?
Thank you and God bless you and yours!
In Christ,
Joey
www.needGod.com
Thursday, September 24, 2009
What I really think at age 25
I turned 25 today. How crazy is that? I usually don't pay much thought to my birthday but this year is different and I'll tell you why, near the end!
Don't worry. I'm not one of those dudes that gets all freaked out about getting older and trying to look younger and all that nonsense, even though I'm not that old. But of couse it's all in the eye of the beholder! When I'm 30, I'm 30 and when I'm 40, I'm 40. God willing I'll make it that far! I believe what I have to say is much deeper and important than the whole age issue.
I think as adults in general we don't generally think about our child hood much anymore, in a healthy way at least. I still have so many memories and it's insane to think how time flys by, but it is immensly slow when you stop and count the seconds.
I actually remember what the 80's smell like...I know that's weird, but I'll walk into a building and I'm like, "it smells very 80'sish in here". I mean, I know it's because my brain associates specific smells from that time period and then relates my memories to them, but still, how awesome is that? Psychomotor development really is interesting!
Anyways, I remember my mom cuddling with me and taking care of me when I was sick. I rememeber sneaking into my parents bed in the middle of the night. I remember my first day of day care and Saturday morning cartoons. I even remember when me and my sister caught the Easter bunny and my first day of school, lol. I believe we've all had our good and bad memories. Some of us had bad childhoods and some had good, but we're all here now. When I think about everything I went through I'm baffled to think I'm actually a 25 year old man. I remember (I'm going to say that a lot) when I thought 100 dollars could by a house, my first fight, first crush, first race (in a car, I was too fat to foot-race....), friend, time I played a guitar, and so forth.
Our lives, at least for everyone around me, were milestoned like this. 5 years old - go to school - 9ish - friendship is everything - 13 become a teenager (real drama begins) - 16 start driving and hopefully get a car - 18 you can smoke and you have the "right" to say "I don't have to listen to my parents anymore" - 21 - you can drink. Sound familiar? Maybe not.
I wrote many journals when I was in high school and I've been reflecting on my child-adolescenthood lately and have come to this realization. Nothing we have done determines who we are, but it does determine what we are. Sound weird? I think it's true. When I was 5 I hit a kid in the head with a baseball bat for biting me. I thought it was literally the end of the world because my parents would ground me. When I got in my first wreck I thought it was the end of the world. When I was young I thought I HAD to marry so-and-so or get in this or that band or it was the end of the world. The point that I'm trying to make is this; we have no idea of how are life is ever going to turn out or what the repercussions of our decisions will be. Everything we see is from such a narrow perspective no matter how hard we try to think outside of the box.
Who we are is determined by what we believe of ourselves, others, and God. You may believe in Him or not, but it tells a lot about who you are as a person. It doesn't matter if you've broke the law, won the lottery, gave to the poor because they are all "things" that you have done that anyone else could do. What we have done doesn't determine what we are unless you think of it in the the biggest perspective of all. For example: if you've told a lie, your a liar, if you've stolen, you're a thief, if you've used God's name in vain, your a blasphemer. In that perspective (the Biblical one) liars, thieves, and blasphemers will go to hell (Rev. 21:8) But Jesus Christ died and rose from the dead 3 days later forever defeating death for those who will repent (turn away) from their sins and trust in Him fully. He is the only way to heaven and the only way to escape the hell we all deserve. John 14:6
The other perspective is OUR perspective. If we lie we don't think we're liars anymore than if I bake a cake once it doesn't make me a baker. But our own perspective is contradicting. If someone murdered someone 20 years ago and then gets caught now we put him on trial for what....being a murderer. Time doesn't erase the things that we have done, good or bad. See how much our perspective can be flawed. That is why we have to look to the ultimate perspective of God and His word. It is perfect. He is loving, holy, just, merciful, and righteous.
Do you ever have those moments when you're driving or just sitting somewhere and your thinking, "how did I get here"? If not, maybe I'm just deep in a strange way. The reason this birthday (year) is different for me is because that doesn't happen very much anymore. As most of you know I became a born-again Christian this year. Meaning, I didn't just say I was a Christian anymore...I really was. God changed my heart. I began to love the things He loved and hated the things He hated. He gave me the strength and desire to repent from my sins, surrendering and putting my trust in Jesus Christ. I'm not a hypocrite anymore.
I believe it's because I know that wherever I am in my life at this point, I am there for a reason. I don't really question it much or ever ask "what if" anymore. We're all in God's plan. We just need to figure out if we're truly aware of it or not. I don't think the answer to that is reading "Your Best Life Now" or "The Purpose Driven Life". The answer lies in asking yourself this question. It's not, do you know God, it's does God know you? Meaning, are you calling yourself a Christian without being a servant or are you even calling yourself a Christian for that matter.
Many Christians say to live life by asking "what would Jesus do". Well we don't need to ask that. We just need to look at "what DID Jesus do". It's called reading His word, the Bible. That is how we grow closer to Him and that is one very big way we grow closer to Him and He reveals truth and direction to us.
I don't ask how did I get here anymore. Now I ask what can I do now that I am here to glorify God. I find true joy and happiness in doing so. I believe we should all be asking ourselves that question, especially if you call yourself a Christian.
May God bless you and thanks for reading.
Joey
Don't worry. I'm not one of those dudes that gets all freaked out about getting older and trying to look younger and all that nonsense, even though I'm not that old. But of couse it's all in the eye of the beholder! When I'm 30, I'm 30 and when I'm 40, I'm 40. God willing I'll make it that far! I believe what I have to say is much deeper and important than the whole age issue.
I think as adults in general we don't generally think about our child hood much anymore, in a healthy way at least. I still have so many memories and it's insane to think how time flys by, but it is immensly slow when you stop and count the seconds.
I actually remember what the 80's smell like...I know that's weird, but I'll walk into a building and I'm like, "it smells very 80'sish in here". I mean, I know it's because my brain associates specific smells from that time period and then relates my memories to them, but still, how awesome is that? Psychomotor development really is interesting!
Anyways, I remember my mom cuddling with me and taking care of me when I was sick. I rememeber sneaking into my parents bed in the middle of the night. I remember my first day of day care and Saturday morning cartoons. I even remember when me and my sister caught the Easter bunny and my first day of school, lol. I believe we've all had our good and bad memories. Some of us had bad childhoods and some had good, but we're all here now. When I think about everything I went through I'm baffled to think I'm actually a 25 year old man. I remember (I'm going to say that a lot) when I thought 100 dollars could by a house, my first fight, first crush, first race (in a car, I was too fat to foot-race....), friend, time I played a guitar, and so forth.
Our lives, at least for everyone around me, were milestoned like this. 5 years old - go to school - 9ish - friendship is everything - 13 become a teenager (real drama begins) - 16 start driving and hopefully get a car - 18 you can smoke and you have the "right" to say "I don't have to listen to my parents anymore" - 21 - you can drink. Sound familiar? Maybe not.
I wrote many journals when I was in high school and I've been reflecting on my child-adolescenthood lately and have come to this realization. Nothing we have done determines who we are, but it does determine what we are. Sound weird? I think it's true. When I was 5 I hit a kid in the head with a baseball bat for biting me. I thought it was literally the end of the world because my parents would ground me. When I got in my first wreck I thought it was the end of the world. When I was young I thought I HAD to marry so-and-so or get in this or that band or it was the end of the world. The point that I'm trying to make is this; we have no idea of how are life is ever going to turn out or what the repercussions of our decisions will be. Everything we see is from such a narrow perspective no matter how hard we try to think outside of the box.
Who we are is determined by what we believe of ourselves, others, and God. You may believe in Him or not, but it tells a lot about who you are as a person. It doesn't matter if you've broke the law, won the lottery, gave to the poor because they are all "things" that you have done that anyone else could do. What we have done doesn't determine what we are unless you think of it in the the biggest perspective of all. For example: if you've told a lie, your a liar, if you've stolen, you're a thief, if you've used God's name in vain, your a blasphemer. In that perspective (the Biblical one) liars, thieves, and blasphemers will go to hell (Rev. 21:8) But Jesus Christ died and rose from the dead 3 days later forever defeating death for those who will repent (turn away) from their sins and trust in Him fully. He is the only way to heaven and the only way to escape the hell we all deserve. John 14:6
The other perspective is OUR perspective. If we lie we don't think we're liars anymore than if I bake a cake once it doesn't make me a baker. But our own perspective is contradicting. If someone murdered someone 20 years ago and then gets caught now we put him on trial for what....being a murderer. Time doesn't erase the things that we have done, good or bad. See how much our perspective can be flawed. That is why we have to look to the ultimate perspective of God and His word. It is perfect. He is loving, holy, just, merciful, and righteous.
Do you ever have those moments when you're driving or just sitting somewhere and your thinking, "how did I get here"? If not, maybe I'm just deep in a strange way. The reason this birthday (year) is different for me is because that doesn't happen very much anymore. As most of you know I became a born-again Christian this year. Meaning, I didn't just say I was a Christian anymore...I really was. God changed my heart. I began to love the things He loved and hated the things He hated. He gave me the strength and desire to repent from my sins, surrendering and putting my trust in Jesus Christ. I'm not a hypocrite anymore.
I believe it's because I know that wherever I am in my life at this point, I am there for a reason. I don't really question it much or ever ask "what if" anymore. We're all in God's plan. We just need to figure out if we're truly aware of it or not. I don't think the answer to that is reading "Your Best Life Now" or "The Purpose Driven Life". The answer lies in asking yourself this question. It's not, do you know God, it's does God know you? Meaning, are you calling yourself a Christian without being a servant or are you even calling yourself a Christian for that matter.
Many Christians say to live life by asking "what would Jesus do". Well we don't need to ask that. We just need to look at "what DID Jesus do". It's called reading His word, the Bible. That is how we grow closer to Him and that is one very big way we grow closer to Him and He reveals truth and direction to us.
I don't ask how did I get here anymore. Now I ask what can I do now that I am here to glorify God. I find true joy and happiness in doing so. I believe we should all be asking ourselves that question, especially if you call yourself a Christian.
May God bless you and thanks for reading.
Joey
Sunday, September 20, 2009
Another day, another story, praise God!
Yesterday was a slow day at first, but turned out to be nothing less than great. My family and I woke up, ate left over Chuck E Cheese pizza from the night before, lol, and then went to Grayson's friends birthday party. After that we went to my niece's football game where she was cheering. Then on the way to my parents house we found a little boy (between 2 and 3 years old running around by himself in the street). I was disgusted at how everyone (yes, adults) at the park didn't do anything about it. They even told me just that he had been walking up and down the street for a while by himself!!
As I went to talk to the little boy and guided him out of the street he started crying and went to what appeared to be his house down the block, but no one would answer the door so my wife called the police while I stayed with him. He was such a sweet little boy and he sat in my lap until the authorities arrived. That's when the people at the park wanted to come see what was going on....
I told them to go away and that the police didn't need a scene. The reason I'm telling this story is because that is how a lot of Christians are. These people saw a little boy in the street who could have been hit by a car any minute and did nothing about it even as we had to stop not to hit him. People are in danger of hell and could die any minute and Christians stand by and do nothing about it. We have a responsibility! God works through us to bring about His will. I beg you to please share your faith however you can. Please don't be like the bystanders who didn't care enough about the little boy! Christians are ambassadors to the lost, not bystanders.
We are therefore Christ's ambassadors, as though God were making his appeal through us. We implore you on Christ's behalf: Be reconciled to God. - 2 Corinthians 5:20
Everything turned out alright and I was able to have a conversation with the police officer and give him a gospel tract. Please pray for him and other officers for their salvation, safety, and service.
After that, I had a wonderful night of witnessing at the Harbor where the Lord did amazing things as usual. I ran into an atheist who I had met before who denounced his title as atheist and now believes there to be a God, but didn't want to trust in something he didn't understand yet. Our conversation went well and another seed was planted. Please pray for him as he is searching, attending church, and reading the bible. God enabled me to talk to more groups of people which went really well.
I was passing a group of about 6 or 8 guys who were cussing profusely. I walked right by them, but I felt an overwhelming impulse to go back and talk to them. When God wants you to do something sometimes it really is overwhelming if you are open to His will. People expect God to do things, but they don't fully surrender to Him. That's the key and probably one of the reasons people have to hit rock bottom before they turn to God, which is unfortunate that it has to come to that situation.
I went back and gave them tracts and asked them if they had a religious background and sure enough they all said they were Christians, even after dropping numerous f-bombs and other not so nice words. I continued to ask them what they think happens after death and as we went through the law of God (the 10 commandments) their heads immediately dropped and they couldn't look at me. THAT is what the law of God does, they realized what their sin was and that is why we are to use it! Now they were ready for the love and grace of Jesus Christ.
I shared with them why God sent His son Jesus Christ, fully God and fully man to die for our sins and to rise from the dead 3 days later forever defeating death. I explained what we are "saved" from if we repent and trust in Him. These boys understood the true loved of God. At least they appeared to. They told me they would definitely think about what I said and thanked me for talking to them. Praise God! Please pray for them!
After that I was on my way to the restroom and then was going to go to my car after that. As I was leaving I got the same feeling again as two girls were walking along the pier. I said to myself, "I'll at least give them a tract". So I did and they kept walking, but my mouth opened, "do you guys have a religious background"? That turned into an over an hour long conversation as we sat on the pier. They were very sweet, intelligent, and unfortunately victims of church corruption which is what I run into a lot.
The Lord guided the conversation without a doubt and I believe important questions were answered. I don't know their hearts, but I truly pray that they come to know the one and only living God, Jesus Christ. It was really a wonderful night. Even if things don't always go the way I want, there is no other feeling like knowing that you are serving the Lord.
My brother Ray Comfort couldn't have put it any better when it comes to witnessing, "sometimes I go in dragging my feet, but I always come out clicking my heels."
May God bless you and yours and PLEASE pray for those who I mentioned and all the others who are lost.
Thank you so much and all the glory to Him.
In Christ,
Joey
John 3:30
As I went to talk to the little boy and guided him out of the street he started crying and went to what appeared to be his house down the block, but no one would answer the door so my wife called the police while I stayed with him. He was such a sweet little boy and he sat in my lap until the authorities arrived. That's when the people at the park wanted to come see what was going on....
I told them to go away and that the police didn't need a scene. The reason I'm telling this story is because that is how a lot of Christians are. These people saw a little boy in the street who could have been hit by a car any minute and did nothing about it even as we had to stop not to hit him. People are in danger of hell and could die any minute and Christians stand by and do nothing about it. We have a responsibility! God works through us to bring about His will. I beg you to please share your faith however you can. Please don't be like the bystanders who didn't care enough about the little boy! Christians are ambassadors to the lost, not bystanders.
We are therefore Christ's ambassadors, as though God were making his appeal through us. We implore you on Christ's behalf: Be reconciled to God. - 2 Corinthians 5:20
Everything turned out alright and I was able to have a conversation with the police officer and give him a gospel tract. Please pray for him and other officers for their salvation, safety, and service.
After that, I had a wonderful night of witnessing at the Harbor where the Lord did amazing things as usual. I ran into an atheist who I had met before who denounced his title as atheist and now believes there to be a God, but didn't want to trust in something he didn't understand yet. Our conversation went well and another seed was planted. Please pray for him as he is searching, attending church, and reading the bible. God enabled me to talk to more groups of people which went really well.
I was passing a group of about 6 or 8 guys who were cussing profusely. I walked right by them, but I felt an overwhelming impulse to go back and talk to them. When God wants you to do something sometimes it really is overwhelming if you are open to His will. People expect God to do things, but they don't fully surrender to Him. That's the key and probably one of the reasons people have to hit rock bottom before they turn to God, which is unfortunate that it has to come to that situation.
I went back and gave them tracts and asked them if they had a religious background and sure enough they all said they were Christians, even after dropping numerous f-bombs and other not so nice words. I continued to ask them what they think happens after death and as we went through the law of God (the 10 commandments) their heads immediately dropped and they couldn't look at me. THAT is what the law of God does, they realized what their sin was and that is why we are to use it! Now they were ready for the love and grace of Jesus Christ.
I shared with them why God sent His son Jesus Christ, fully God and fully man to die for our sins and to rise from the dead 3 days later forever defeating death. I explained what we are "saved" from if we repent and trust in Him. These boys understood the true loved of God. At least they appeared to. They told me they would definitely think about what I said and thanked me for talking to them. Praise God! Please pray for them!
After that I was on my way to the restroom and then was going to go to my car after that. As I was leaving I got the same feeling again as two girls were walking along the pier. I said to myself, "I'll at least give them a tract". So I did and they kept walking, but my mouth opened, "do you guys have a religious background"? That turned into an over an hour long conversation as we sat on the pier. They were very sweet, intelligent, and unfortunately victims of church corruption which is what I run into a lot.
The Lord guided the conversation without a doubt and I believe important questions were answered. I don't know their hearts, but I truly pray that they come to know the one and only living God, Jesus Christ. It was really a wonderful night. Even if things don't always go the way I want, there is no other feeling like knowing that you are serving the Lord.
My brother Ray Comfort couldn't have put it any better when it comes to witnessing, "sometimes I go in dragging my feet, but I always come out clicking my heels."
May God bless you and yours and PLEASE pray for those who I mentioned and all the others who are lost.
Thank you so much and all the glory to Him.
In Christ,
Joey
John 3:30
Friday, September 4, 2009
Shenanigans and scientology
I decided to go the harbor Thursday night during a jazz concert at the amphitheater while my wife and son ran errands.
This post is long, but it was an eventful night : )
Everything started out slow as I walked around praying and taking in the beautiful sites. Honestly, it's hard for me to work up the courage to start talking to random people, but they aren't random at all in God's eyes. I usually sit on a bench for about 10 minutes praying for courage, compassion, and that hearts would be unhardened and receptive to the gospel. And most importantly for God to be with me as He always is. After that I'm good to go!
I then noticed two girls walking around, one wearing a large Shenanigans sign around her neck advertising the business, and the other handing out flyers I believe. I walked up and handed them a couple of million dollar bill tracts. They replied by saying "oh people leaves these at our work and people don't like them."
I asked, "Why don't they like them?"
"Well someone said the part about sin makes it seem like people can just sin and live however they want and then everything is just okay if we say a prayer" (This perspective is usually shared by people who turn their back on Christianity due to the modern prosperity gospel, hypocrisy, catholocism or other works-based religions)
I explained that the message shows us how we all have sinned and why we need to be saved.
I then shared with them the law and the gospel. I explained what the gospel really is and why it is good news. As we went through the law I believe their hearts were convicted. They were extremely nice girls. They thanked me and said they were really glad I stop and talked to them. The girl with the sign even gave me a hug and was grateful for our conversation. I truly believe the Lord did a work in their hearts. They seemed very responsive, convicted, and inspired to embrace repentance and trust in Christ.
As I moved on I handed out tracts to individuals and couples walking by as they were on their way to the concert. Next, I saw a group of about 6 teenage guys smoking and talking near the fountain I approached them and gave them a million dollars, they thought it was neat and thanked me. The conversation went like this:
"Hey guys, I wish this was real for y'all, but the message on the back is."
"Do you guys have a religious background or anything?"
They replied, "not really..go to church sometimes."
"Oh okay, well I'm not with a church or anything, but I was wondering what you think happens after death or if you guys even think about that kind of stuff."
"Yeah, we do alot"
"Really? You guys are lot smarter than me when I was you're age! Well, do you believe in heaven and hell, that kind of stuff or something else?"
"Yeah, we believe in heaven and hell."
"Well what do you think you have to do to go to heaven or to hell?"
Two of them agreed you have to accept Christ into your heart. And the others weren't really sure. When I asked about hell they said the kind of people who go there are the ones who don't ask for forgiveness. I asked them if they were sure that's how it works and they replied that they didn't really know.
"Do you want to know for sure? I'm just going to ask a few questions, but you've got to be honest."
"Sure"
I then went through the law, the Ten Commandments, and they learned what their sin was. I believe some of them realized it was serious despite how innocent the world views it and how we have all broken His law. They were getting kind of bummed, and was like..."so we're all doomed"?
"No, I'm going to give you the good news now, it's great."
This is when they're older friend showed up who kind of acted like the leader, joker, of the group. He had a cool English, I believe, accent and was a super-nice guy. I gave him a million dollar bill and caught him up to where we were. Another person showed up and sat down as well. He told me someone just talked to him about Jesus, but he wanted to hear me out anyways, because I really hadn't got there yet.
He took over the conversation for his friends. They all saw it as an opportunity for a cigarette break as he started, but they stayed and listened. He had told me was into scientology and considers himself a scientologist.
I asked, really, so do you believe in evolution? He said yes.
"I believe in science. That science is superior. The bible is just another book."
"Oh okay, I think science is interesting as well, but did you know that their are scientific facts in the bible that science had wrong?"
"Really, and what is that?"
"Well the bible told us the world is round whereas science believed it to be flat for years. The bible also tells us that we are to run our hands through running water as science believed doctors to wash their hands in still water which proved to be wrong."
"I didn't know that, but it's still just a book. What about what muslims believe."
"Well the book is the inspired word of God, it's 66 books compiled over 1400 years by around 40 authors from different time periods without any contradictions to the content and prophecies."
I then explained what muslims believe and how it is wrong, biblically and because of their works based salvation with the denial of Jesus Christ being the son of God.
"Listen, I'm telling you this because I care. I don't know you, but hell is real and so is heaven. If I'm wrong then you cease to exist. If I'm right and the bible is right then you have to face God on judgement day. Does that concern you at all??"
"No, because I'm just going to live my life to the fullest and do what I do. My parents are both Christians and I respect what you believe and what you are doing."
"Man, just consider what I'm saying. It doesn't matter what you believe. The bible says Jesus Christ is the only way and I don't want you to suffer hell."
"I appreciate that, but I believe in science."
"So do you believe in evolution?"
"Yes, I believe everything formed from gasses and we did as well."
His friends started looking at him real funny.
"Dude, are you serious? You believe we came from gas and that we were an accident? You mean more than that and I know you're smarter than that."
My tone developed more into a plea as I saw this young man not wanting to acknowledge truth because of his love for his lifestyle.
"Yes, I believe that and I'm just going to live life to the fullest. I don't believe the bible, but I respect that you do."
I pleaded with him some more and eventually someone later came up and started talking to him. His friends learned forward and said to me, "so what's the good news?"
They were really adamant about me telling them the gospel because of where we had left off, hell.
Alright, I know you guys have heard about Jesus Christ and what He did. You've heard of Christmas, right?" They were all familiar with Jesus as most people are. "Well that is what He saved us from so that we may have everlasting life. We have to trust in Him and repent, meaning turn away from our sins. It has nothing to do with church, hail-maries, confession to a pastor or a priest. Christianity is a relationship with Jesus Christ. That is what differentiates it from other "religions". Do you get what I'm saying."
They agreed and said they were really going to think about it and that they would read John in their bible. I don't if they really would, but I continued to tell them that there is nothing more important than their eternal salvation and I truly cared for them.
Once I was done talking to them the other guy wrapped up with my scientologist friend.
I then asked him, "what did he talk to you about?"
He was talking about how he was saved and Jesus. (I overheard the conversation, but I wanted to ask anyways.)
Man, that's the third person tonight who has shared Christ with you. This is not a coincidence.
"Well how many of you are out here?"
"I have no clue, I'm here by myself I don't even know who this guy or the other guy was. Seriously, just think about what we talked about. If there is a millionth of a chance I'm right wouldn't it be smart to at least consider or look into it. Check out John in your bible, please."
We shook hands and he thanked me and that was that.
I then talked to guy who was sharing his testimony. He was a very nice guy from the Ethiopian church near Dallas. I explained to him what I was doing and the importance of sharing the gospel biblically and gave him words of encouragement. He thanked me and got my number and we were both off in our seperate directions.
It started to lightnening a lot, which looked really cool. Lightening is one of those things I look at and am in awe of God's creation. About that time my wife was leaving to pick me up.
As I was waiting I saw a group of three teenagers. I gave them tracts and started talking with them. The conversation went really well, but they didn't have much to say. The boy in the group said that people have told him about his sin before and said he was going to hell when I asked him what happens after death.
I asked if anyone had ever given him the good news before. He said no and just thought he was going to hell. I then took them through the gospel and it was just an awesome experience as I could see the contrition and realization in their eyes. I thanked them for listening and told them to check out John in their bible.
In all my conversations I explained that God is so good that he will punish all sin. He is a holy, loving, and just God. People usually say it's about asking for forgiveness and trying to live a good life, but it's about realizing what we are and what God did for us and who He is.
If you read all this please pray for all those in these conversations. Unfortunately, I forget many names and tend do it often when I talk to groups of people. But the Lord knows our intentions and directions of our prayers.
May God bless you and yours!
Joey
This post is long, but it was an eventful night : )
Everything started out slow as I walked around praying and taking in the beautiful sites. Honestly, it's hard for me to work up the courage to start talking to random people, but they aren't random at all in God's eyes. I usually sit on a bench for about 10 minutes praying for courage, compassion, and that hearts would be unhardened and receptive to the gospel. And most importantly for God to be with me as He always is. After that I'm good to go!
I then noticed two girls walking around, one wearing a large Shenanigans sign around her neck advertising the business, and the other handing out flyers I believe. I walked up and handed them a couple of million dollar bill tracts. They replied by saying "oh people leaves these at our work and people don't like them."
I asked, "Why don't they like them?"
"Well someone said the part about sin makes it seem like people can just sin and live however they want and then everything is just okay if we say a prayer" (This perspective is usually shared by people who turn their back on Christianity due to the modern prosperity gospel, hypocrisy, catholocism or other works-based religions)
I explained that the message shows us how we all have sinned and why we need to be saved.
I then shared with them the law and the gospel. I explained what the gospel really is and why it is good news. As we went through the law I believe their hearts were convicted. They were extremely nice girls. They thanked me and said they were really glad I stop and talked to them. The girl with the sign even gave me a hug and was grateful for our conversation. I truly believe the Lord did a work in their hearts. They seemed very responsive, convicted, and inspired to embrace repentance and trust in Christ.
As I moved on I handed out tracts to individuals and couples walking by as they were on their way to the concert. Next, I saw a group of about 6 teenage guys smoking and talking near the fountain I approached them and gave them a million dollars, they thought it was neat and thanked me. The conversation went like this:
"Hey guys, I wish this was real for y'all, but the message on the back is."
"Do you guys have a religious background or anything?"
They replied, "not really..go to church sometimes."
"Oh okay, well I'm not with a church or anything, but I was wondering what you think happens after death or if you guys even think about that kind of stuff."
"Yeah, we do alot"
"Really? You guys are lot smarter than me when I was you're age! Well, do you believe in heaven and hell, that kind of stuff or something else?"
"Yeah, we believe in heaven and hell."
"Well what do you think you have to do to go to heaven or to hell?"
Two of them agreed you have to accept Christ into your heart. And the others weren't really sure. When I asked about hell they said the kind of people who go there are the ones who don't ask for forgiveness. I asked them if they were sure that's how it works and they replied that they didn't really know.
"Do you want to know for sure? I'm just going to ask a few questions, but you've got to be honest."
"Sure"
I then went through the law, the Ten Commandments, and they learned what their sin was. I believe some of them realized it was serious despite how innocent the world views it and how we have all broken His law. They were getting kind of bummed, and was like..."so we're all doomed"?
"No, I'm going to give you the good news now, it's great."
This is when they're older friend showed up who kind of acted like the leader, joker, of the group. He had a cool English, I believe, accent and was a super-nice guy. I gave him a million dollar bill and caught him up to where we were. Another person showed up and sat down as well. He told me someone just talked to him about Jesus, but he wanted to hear me out anyways, because I really hadn't got there yet.
He took over the conversation for his friends. They all saw it as an opportunity for a cigarette break as he started, but they stayed and listened. He had told me was into scientology and considers himself a scientologist.
I asked, really, so do you believe in evolution? He said yes.
"I believe in science. That science is superior. The bible is just another book."
"Oh okay, I think science is interesting as well, but did you know that their are scientific facts in the bible that science had wrong?"
"Really, and what is that?"
"Well the bible told us the world is round whereas science believed it to be flat for years. The bible also tells us that we are to run our hands through running water as science believed doctors to wash their hands in still water which proved to be wrong."
"I didn't know that, but it's still just a book. What about what muslims believe."
"Well the book is the inspired word of God, it's 66 books compiled over 1400 years by around 40 authors from different time periods without any contradictions to the content and prophecies."
I then explained what muslims believe and how it is wrong, biblically and because of their works based salvation with the denial of Jesus Christ being the son of God.
"Listen, I'm telling you this because I care. I don't know you, but hell is real and so is heaven. If I'm wrong then you cease to exist. If I'm right and the bible is right then you have to face God on judgement day. Does that concern you at all??"
"No, because I'm just going to live my life to the fullest and do what I do. My parents are both Christians and I respect what you believe and what you are doing."
"Man, just consider what I'm saying. It doesn't matter what you believe. The bible says Jesus Christ is the only way and I don't want you to suffer hell."
"I appreciate that, but I believe in science."
"So do you believe in evolution?"
"Yes, I believe everything formed from gasses and we did as well."
His friends started looking at him real funny.
"Dude, are you serious? You believe we came from gas and that we were an accident? You mean more than that and I know you're smarter than that."
My tone developed more into a plea as I saw this young man not wanting to acknowledge truth because of his love for his lifestyle.
"Yes, I believe that and I'm just going to live life to the fullest. I don't believe the bible, but I respect that you do."
I pleaded with him some more and eventually someone later came up and started talking to him. His friends learned forward and said to me, "so what's the good news?"
They were really adamant about me telling them the gospel because of where we had left off, hell.
Alright, I know you guys have heard about Jesus Christ and what He did. You've heard of Christmas, right?" They were all familiar with Jesus as most people are. "Well that is what He saved us from so that we may have everlasting life. We have to trust in Him and repent, meaning turn away from our sins. It has nothing to do with church, hail-maries, confession to a pastor or a priest. Christianity is a relationship with Jesus Christ. That is what differentiates it from other "religions". Do you get what I'm saying."
They agreed and said they were really going to think about it and that they would read John in their bible. I don't if they really would, but I continued to tell them that there is nothing more important than their eternal salvation and I truly cared for them.
Once I was done talking to them the other guy wrapped up with my scientologist friend.
I then asked him, "what did he talk to you about?"
He was talking about how he was saved and Jesus. (I overheard the conversation, but I wanted to ask anyways.)
Man, that's the third person tonight who has shared Christ with you. This is not a coincidence.
"Well how many of you are out here?"
"I have no clue, I'm here by myself I don't even know who this guy or the other guy was. Seriously, just think about what we talked about. If there is a millionth of a chance I'm right wouldn't it be smart to at least consider or look into it. Check out John in your bible, please."
We shook hands and he thanked me and that was that.
I then talked to guy who was sharing his testimony. He was a very nice guy from the Ethiopian church near Dallas. I explained to him what I was doing and the importance of sharing the gospel biblically and gave him words of encouragement. He thanked me and got my number and we were both off in our seperate directions.
It started to lightnening a lot, which looked really cool. Lightening is one of those things I look at and am in awe of God's creation. About that time my wife was leaving to pick me up.
As I was waiting I saw a group of three teenagers. I gave them tracts and started talking with them. The conversation went really well, but they didn't have much to say. The boy in the group said that people have told him about his sin before and said he was going to hell when I asked him what happens after death.
I asked if anyone had ever given him the good news before. He said no and just thought he was going to hell. I then took them through the gospel and it was just an awesome experience as I could see the contrition and realization in their eyes. I thanked them for listening and told them to check out John in their bible.
In all my conversations I explained that God is so good that he will punish all sin. He is a holy, loving, and just God. People usually say it's about asking for forgiveness and trying to live a good life, but it's about realizing what we are and what God did for us and who He is.
If you read all this please pray for all those in these conversations. Unfortunately, I forget many names and tend do it often when I talk to groups of people. But the Lord knows our intentions and directions of our prayers.
May God bless you and yours!
Joey
Sunday, August 30, 2009
A conversation with Gilbert
I'm going to try and transcribe one of my witnessing encounters today. This is my first time so I'm sorry if it's difficult to read.
Melanie, Grayson and I just got done eating at the Harbor in Rockwall. I didn't have a chance to go to my favorite fishing spot yesterday so I said I had to go today even though it would not be near as crowded.
Anyways we had just got done eating lunch and Melanie took Grayson to play at the fountain as I ventured off to see what God would do. As I said before there were not very many people there at all when someone exiting the movies by himself stuck out to me. He had long hair, short beard, and looked to be somewhere between 20 and 25.
I usually have the opportunity to witness to groups of people rather than individuals. Individuals usually aren't hanging around so they are on the go and will take a tract without stopping. So I approached him and handed him a million dollar bill, "did you get one of these"?
"No I didn't" and he stopped to read it.
I started to walk off, but came back to talk him.
I asked, "do you have a religious background"
"No, not really"
"Really? You've never gone to church or anything of that sort".
"Oh ya, I go to church sometimes with my momma".
"Oh okay, well what I gave you is a tract. It has the gospel on it. Are you familiar with it?"
"No"
"By the way, my name is Joey, what's yours?" *hand shake*
"Gilbert"
"Well Gilbert, the gospel is the good news. This is kind of morbid, but do you ever think about what happens after death?"
"Yeah man I think about it all the time"
"Do you believe in heaven and hell, that sort of thing".
"Definitely"
"Well, what kind of people do you think go to heaven and what kind of people would go to hell"
"I don't know...I don't really think about that."
"Do you mind if I tell you because it's really important"
"Sure"
"Well, you've heard God's holy law the 10 commandments right?"
"Yeah"
"Well, I'm just going to ask you a couple of questions but you gotta be honest."
"Alright"
"Have you ever lied before?"
"Yes"
"what do you call someone who lies"
"A sinner"
"Well, more specifically"
He paused and started thinking so I said, "well what would you call me if I told a lie".
"I would say your a person who doesn't tell the truth"
We laughed and I said, "you're not going to hurt my feelings. I would be a liar, right?"
"Yes"
"Alright, thanks for being honest. Have you ever stolen anything regardless of value"
"No"
"Well that's awesome!"
"I'm sure you've never murdered someone, right"
"No way"
"Well check this out, in the Bible Jesus says that anyone who hates another has already committed murder in their heart".
He said, well I guess I have then.
I told him the same thing about adultery and it was the same case.
"Have you ever heard of blasphemy"
"Kind of"
"Well blasphemy is throwing around God's name careless or using it as a cuss word. Like saying GD or OMG. Have you ever done that"
"Yes, I probably shouldn't"
"It's very serious, would you like someone to use your mom's name as a cuss word?"
"No"
"Alright Gilbert, according to what you've said you're a liar, murderer, and adulterer at heart. I've broken all those commandments as well so we are in the same boat. Based on that what would you deserve, heaven or hell?"
"Well, I think we'd still go to heaven"
"Check this out though, the bible says in Revelation 21:8 that all liar, blasphemers will have their part in the lake of fire. Do you know what that is."
"Yes, that's hell."
"So if God judged you right now what would you deserve."
"Hell"
"Now listen, I told you I broke all the 10 commandments and I appreciate your honesty."
"This is where the good news, the gospel comes in".
"Jesus Christ lived a sinless perfect life and then suffered the wraith of God on the cross".
"Have you ever seen the Passion?"
"Yes"
"It was probably like that or worse. That is just part of what He went through."
"When He rose from the dead and forever defeated death 3 days later a legal transaction took place."
"That is what God did so we don't have to suffer the consequences of hell for the sins we committed"
"Do you understand"
Light bulb goes off, "yeah man"
"Now this is what God asks of us. We have to repent, turn away from our sins and trust in Jesus Christ. Going to church won't get us to heaven, hail marys wont, giving to the poor won't. Only trust in Jesus Christ. We have to turn away from our sins. Before I was born-again, meaning I was changed and started loving the things God loves and hated the things He hates, I would sin on purpose with the intention of thinking God would forgive me. I wasn't saved.
It's just like being in a court room wanted for murder saying, judge I won't ever kill again and I'm so sorry and will give away all my money. Should the judge let you go?"
"No"
"Right, because He is a good judge. Now imagine you have a million dollar fine you can't pay and someone walks up and pays it for you and you are free to go. That's exactly what Jesus Christ did for us. God is a just, loving, and holy God so he must punish sin. He gave us Jesus Christ so that we may turn away from our sins and trust Him. That's what it means to be saved."
"Do you understand what I'm saying"
"Yeah man I do, it makes sense"
"Listen Gilbert, I don't know you but I care about you, otherwise I wouldn't be talking to you right now. Heaven is real, but so is hell and a lot of people are going to go to hell and the bible says so"
"Are you going to think about this stuff."
"Definitely"
"Alright, do you have a bible? I have one if you need one"
"Yes, I have one at home"
"Well crack that bible open and start in John. I know there are parts of the bible that are dry, but start in John and it really shows what God did for us and talks more about what I'm saying right now"
"Alright, thanks"
"Thanks for listening to me and I'll be praying for you brother"
"Thanks I'll pray for you too"
Gilbert was an awesome guy to talk to and God definitely put us there for a reason. Please keep Gilbert in your prayers. Pray for that He will turn to God and trust in His son Jesus Christ.
God bless!
Joey Acker
Melanie, Grayson and I just got done eating at the Harbor in Rockwall. I didn't have a chance to go to my favorite fishing spot yesterday so I said I had to go today even though it would not be near as crowded.
Anyways we had just got done eating lunch and Melanie took Grayson to play at the fountain as I ventured off to see what God would do. As I said before there were not very many people there at all when someone exiting the movies by himself stuck out to me. He had long hair, short beard, and looked to be somewhere between 20 and 25.
I usually have the opportunity to witness to groups of people rather than individuals. Individuals usually aren't hanging around so they are on the go and will take a tract without stopping. So I approached him and handed him a million dollar bill, "did you get one of these"?
"No I didn't" and he stopped to read it.
I started to walk off, but came back to talk him.
I asked, "do you have a religious background"
"No, not really"
"Really? You've never gone to church or anything of that sort".
"Oh ya, I go to church sometimes with my momma".
"Oh okay, well what I gave you is a tract. It has the gospel on it. Are you familiar with it?"
"No"
"By the way, my name is Joey, what's yours?" *hand shake*
"Gilbert"
"Well Gilbert, the gospel is the good news. This is kind of morbid, but do you ever think about what happens after death?"
"Yeah man I think about it all the time"
"Do you believe in heaven and hell, that sort of thing".
"Definitely"
"Well, what kind of people do you think go to heaven and what kind of people would go to hell"
"I don't know...I don't really think about that."
"Do you mind if I tell you because it's really important"
"Sure"
"Well, you've heard God's holy law the 10 commandments right?"
"Yeah"
"Well, I'm just going to ask you a couple of questions but you gotta be honest."
"Alright"
"Have you ever lied before?"
"Yes"
"what do you call someone who lies"
"A sinner"
"Well, more specifically"
He paused and started thinking so I said, "well what would you call me if I told a lie".
"I would say your a person who doesn't tell the truth"
We laughed and I said, "you're not going to hurt my feelings. I would be a liar, right?"
"Yes"
"Alright, thanks for being honest. Have you ever stolen anything regardless of value"
"No"
"Well that's awesome!"
"I'm sure you've never murdered someone, right"
"No way"
"Well check this out, in the Bible Jesus says that anyone who hates another has already committed murder in their heart".
He said, well I guess I have then.
I told him the same thing about adultery and it was the same case.
"Have you ever heard of blasphemy"
"Kind of"
"Well blasphemy is throwing around God's name careless or using it as a cuss word. Like saying GD or OMG. Have you ever done that"
"Yes, I probably shouldn't"
"It's very serious, would you like someone to use your mom's name as a cuss word?"
"No"
"Alright Gilbert, according to what you've said you're a liar, murderer, and adulterer at heart. I've broken all those commandments as well so we are in the same boat. Based on that what would you deserve, heaven or hell?"
"Well, I think we'd still go to heaven"
"Check this out though, the bible says in Revelation 21:8 that all liar, blasphemers will have their part in the lake of fire. Do you know what that is."
"Yes, that's hell."
"So if God judged you right now what would you deserve."
"Hell"
"Now listen, I told you I broke all the 10 commandments and I appreciate your honesty."
"This is where the good news, the gospel comes in".
"Jesus Christ lived a sinless perfect life and then suffered the wraith of God on the cross".
"Have you ever seen the Passion?"
"Yes"
"It was probably like that or worse. That is just part of what He went through."
"When He rose from the dead and forever defeated death 3 days later a legal transaction took place."
"That is what God did so we don't have to suffer the consequences of hell for the sins we committed"
"Do you understand"
Light bulb goes off, "yeah man"
"Now this is what God asks of us. We have to repent, turn away from our sins and trust in Jesus Christ. Going to church won't get us to heaven, hail marys wont, giving to the poor won't. Only trust in Jesus Christ. We have to turn away from our sins. Before I was born-again, meaning I was changed and started loving the things God loves and hated the things He hates, I would sin on purpose with the intention of thinking God would forgive me. I wasn't saved.
It's just like being in a court room wanted for murder saying, judge I won't ever kill again and I'm so sorry and will give away all my money. Should the judge let you go?"
"No"
"Right, because He is a good judge. Now imagine you have a million dollar fine you can't pay and someone walks up and pays it for you and you are free to go. That's exactly what Jesus Christ did for us. God is a just, loving, and holy God so he must punish sin. He gave us Jesus Christ so that we may turn away from our sins and trust Him. That's what it means to be saved."
"Do you understand what I'm saying"
"Yeah man I do, it makes sense"
"Listen Gilbert, I don't know you but I care about you, otherwise I wouldn't be talking to you right now. Heaven is real, but so is hell and a lot of people are going to go to hell and the bible says so"
"Are you going to think about this stuff."
"Definitely"
"Alright, do you have a bible? I have one if you need one"
"Yes, I have one at home"
"Well crack that bible open and start in John. I know there are parts of the bible that are dry, but start in John and it really shows what God did for us and talks more about what I'm saying right now"
"Alright, thanks"
"Thanks for listening to me and I'll be praying for you brother"
"Thanks I'll pray for you too"
Gilbert was an awesome guy to talk to and God definitely put us there for a reason. Please keep Gilbert in your prayers. Pray for that He will turn to God and trust in His son Jesus Christ.
God bless!
Joey Acker