12/31/09 Althea, about 45
At Burger King, Althea allowed me to sit down and ask about her beliefs. She is a middle-aged African-American woman who grew up in a Jehovah Witness home, but has fallen away from her beliefs ever since her mother passed away. She feels a huge burden of guilt for this, especially because she lives with her boyfriend who doesn't want to get married. She confirmed much of what I've learned about the Jehovah's Witnesses, and warmed up to my questions as I listened to her answers without judgment. As we talked I affirmed many beliefs common to both JW's and biblical Christianity, and she was clearly moved and stated that she believed God had sent me to get her attention after so many years of ignoring Him. At this point I felt very free to explain some key errors of the Jehovah's Witnesses. For example, they do not believe that Jesus was the Son of God. However, if Jesus was just a man then His sacrifice on the cross would be an inadequate atonement for our sins. On the other hand if He was who He claimed to be, then there would be no need to add good works to what was accomplished on the cross as the JW's believe. We don't need to work to earn salvation; instead our obedience becomes a loving response to God's gracious gift. Althea was amazed at this last idea. "What a relief that would be, not having that guilt or the burden of wondering if I'm being good enough!".
Gospel conversations from the streets and marketplace....
12/30/09 George, about 17
On a late evening stop at the grocery store to pick up a few items, my son Jonathan, 19, walked with me while I tried to initiate a gospel conversation. Several people happily received my "million dollar bill" tracts and my friendly challenge to "take the good person test on the back, I failed it myself" but the first who was actually willing to stop and talk about it was George, an amiable young man who seemed to have no strong religious beliefs one way or another. Even though his mother is a regular church attendee, George told me he had no church experience and had never heard of the Ten Commandments. He believes in God but hasn't really thought much about eternal things. He patiently listened while I talked about our accountability to God and His commandments, our guilt in breaking them and the punishment we deserve, God's love for justice but also his love for us and the sacrifice of Jesus on our behalf, and the need for George to repent and believe in response. He seemed to agree with everything I said, but didn't ask any questions so it wasn't really a two-way conversation. When people ask questions or even challenge what I am saying I know that they are really listening and understanding. I believe George might wake up tomorrow and think something like "I can't remember much of what that guy said but I do remember that it all made a lot of sense at the time." If that motivates him to read what I gave him or better yet, read the Bible on his own or start to attend a church, then I will be glad, a seed has been planted.
On a late evening stop at the grocery store to pick up a few items, my son Jonathan, 19, walked with me while I tried to initiate a gospel conversation. Several people happily received my "million dollar bill" tracts and my friendly challenge to "take the good person test on the back, I failed it myself" but the first who was actually willing to stop and talk about it was George, an amiable young man who seemed to have no strong religious beliefs one way or another. Even though his mother is a regular church attendee, George told me he had no church experience and had never heard of the Ten Commandments. He believes in God but hasn't really thought much about eternal things. He patiently listened while I talked about our accountability to God and His commandments, our guilt in breaking them and the punishment we deserve, God's love for justice but also his love for us and the sacrifice of Jesus on our behalf, and the need for George to repent and believe in response. He seemed to agree with everything I said, but didn't ask any questions so it wasn't really a two-way conversation. When people ask questions or even challenge what I am saying I know that they are really listening and understanding. I believe George might wake up tomorrow and think something like "I can't remember much of what that guy said but I do remember that it all made a lot of sense at the time." If that motivates him to read what I gave him or better yet, read the Bible on his own or start to attend a church, then I will be glad, a seed has been planted.
12/29/09 Sonya and Norma, about 30
Today I brought Tony (faithful church member and small group leader) with me to witness at the grocery store. We got in a long conversation with Sonya and Norma, sisters who have rejected their Catholic upbringing and now seem to have a smorgasbord "pick and choose" attitude toward religion. Listening to all their ideas helped us win the right to share biblical Christianity with them and I believe that many seeds of truth were planted that God can grow. Two things stood out to me from this conversation. One is that every complaint and practice of the Catholic church that led its rejection by these two women were examples of what happens when the church veers away from biblical truth, and though I try not to criticize various church traditions I did feel it important to point that out to them when explaining the importance of the Bible as God's word. The other is the importance of keeping the conversation on track, even if it means tolerating some differences of opinion about side issues that can lead us away from the central issues of salvation. Toward the end Sonya stated her opinion that the government staged the tragedy of 9-11 and that no one in the media or government can be trusted. It was hard to keep from an argument, but in the end these sisters took additional info to read and thanked us for the conversation.
Today I brought Tony (faithful church member and small group leader) with me to witness at the grocery store. We got in a long conversation with Sonya and Norma, sisters who have rejected their Catholic upbringing and now seem to have a smorgasbord "pick and choose" attitude toward religion. Listening to all their ideas helped us win the right to share biblical Christianity with them and I believe that many seeds of truth were planted that God can grow. Two things stood out to me from this conversation. One is that every complaint and practice of the Catholic church that led its rejection by these two women were examples of what happens when the church veers away from biblical truth, and though I try not to criticize various church traditions I did feel it important to point that out to them when explaining the importance of the Bible as God's word. The other is the importance of keeping the conversation on track, even if it means tolerating some differences of opinion about side issues that can lead us away from the central issues of salvation. Toward the end Sonya stated her opinion that the government staged the tragedy of 9-11 and that no one in the media or government can be trusted. It was hard to keep from an argument, but in the end these sisters took additional info to read and thanked us for the conversation.
12/28/09 Tommy, about 30
Today I met with Luke (our church's full-time teaching elder) to go witness together. I want to learn how to bring beginners along with me so Luke went along in the role of an observer. We went to the grocery store and I used a million dollar tract to help start a conversation. When I pointed out the question on the back - "Will you go to heaven?" - Tommy told me "I've been raised to believe in a punishing God, and I don't think I'm the kind of person who would be allowed into heaven". Tommy has been avoiding church ever since he left home, and has been in and out of jail ever since. He is extremely sorry for the effect this has had on his children and that he can't get a good job to take care of his family because of his criminal record. He believes God is punishing not only him but his children for his sins. I told him he is right - God will indeed punish sin as He promises in the Bible, but that there is more to the story. He is a God of justice but he is also a God of mercy, and he gave his son Jesus to take the punishment that we deserve. The case against us can be dismissed if we put our trust in what He has done and turn from our sins in repentance. I encouraged Tommy that because of Jesus he can and should get into a right relationship with God today, and from the look in his eyes I knew he needed someone to pray for him right there, so I did, and he was thankful when I gave him some additional info. Afterward Luke and I realized I forgot to give him any contact info but we couldn't find him again, so we just trusted him to the Lord in prayer.
12/29/09 Tommy, follow up conversation
Back at the same grocery store (Dominicks) today with Tony, after our conversation with Sonya and Norma, we ran into Sammy whom I and Luke had spoken with yesterday. He was shocked to see me, and went to shake my hand telling me how thankful he was that we talked to him. He had read much of the info I gave him and had a two-hour long conversation with his wife about it. He had forgotten some of the points I had made, but definitely felt that God was speaking to him and moving in his life. I restated some of my questions - "If you walked out that door and a bus hit you right now and you found yourself before God's judgment throne, where would you be?" "I'd still be in trouble" he answered. Tommy is counting the cost of following Jesus. Though he doesn't look the part, he and his wife are homeless, having spent the night sleeping at the airport. (I don't know where the kids are) He knows he must repent of his sins, but said that one sin in particular provides income for him and he is not ready to give that up. I didn't ask for details, but I did ask a hard, challenging question: "What sin is so important to you that you will hold on to it while it drags you into hell?" He basically agreed that this is the issue. Pray for Tommy and his family while he counts the cost.
Today I met with Luke (our church's full-time teaching elder) to go witness together. I want to learn how to bring beginners along with me so Luke went along in the role of an observer. We went to the grocery store and I used a million dollar tract to help start a conversation. When I pointed out the question on the back - "Will you go to heaven?" - Tommy told me "I've been raised to believe in a punishing God, and I don't think I'm the kind of person who would be allowed into heaven". Tommy has been avoiding church ever since he left home, and has been in and out of jail ever since. He is extremely sorry for the effect this has had on his children and that he can't get a good job to take care of his family because of his criminal record. He believes God is punishing not only him but his children for his sins. I told him he is right - God will indeed punish sin as He promises in the Bible, but that there is more to the story. He is a God of justice but he is also a God of mercy, and he gave his son Jesus to take the punishment that we deserve. The case against us can be dismissed if we put our trust in what He has done and turn from our sins in repentance. I encouraged Tommy that because of Jesus he can and should get into a right relationship with God today, and from the look in his eyes I knew he needed someone to pray for him right there, so I did, and he was thankful when I gave him some additional info. Afterward Luke and I realized I forgot to give him any contact info but we couldn't find him again, so we just trusted him to the Lord in prayer.
12/29/09 Tommy, follow up conversation
Back at the same grocery store (Dominicks) today with Tony, after our conversation with Sonya and Norma, we ran into Sammy whom I and Luke had spoken with yesterday. He was shocked to see me, and went to shake my hand telling me how thankful he was that we talked to him. He had read much of the info I gave him and had a two-hour long conversation with his wife about it. He had forgotten some of the points I had made, but definitely felt that God was speaking to him and moving in his life. I restated some of my questions - "If you walked out that door and a bus hit you right now and you found yourself before God's judgment throne, where would you be?" "I'd still be in trouble" he answered. Tommy is counting the cost of following Jesus. Though he doesn't look the part, he and his wife are homeless, having spent the night sleeping at the airport. (I don't know where the kids are) He knows he must repent of his sins, but said that one sin in particular provides income for him and he is not ready to give that up. I didn't ask for details, but I did ask a hard, challenging question: "What sin is so important to you that you will hold on to it while it drags you into hell?" He basically agreed that this is the issue. Pray for Tommy and his family while he counts the cost.
12/27/09 Abraham, about 65
I finished my grocery shopping and initiated a conversation with an older African-American man named Abraham. He said he'd like to know if he will go to heaven, but felt there is no way of knowing. He is Catholic and told me this is just not a question they talk clearly about at church, but he agreed that in view of eternity it really will be the most important question one could ask. We talked about how we can know, and agreed that it doesn't really matter what we think about it - in the end only the truth will matter. We need God's word on this, not man's opinion. I asked if he had a choice between Church tradition, the Pope's teachings or the Bible, which would be most important and his choice was the Bible. "Do you know what the Bible teaches about eternal life?" He didn't, and wanted to know so I went on to explain the Law and Gospel right there next to the meat case at Save A Lot grocery store. People passing by seemed curious, some seemed to hang out within hearing distance, one woman cheered me on, and Abraham responded with agreement, interest and concern. He was glad to take additional info. This is one grocery shopping trip he won't soon forget.
I finished my grocery shopping and initiated a conversation with an older African-American man named Abraham. He said he'd like to know if he will go to heaven, but felt there is no way of knowing. He is Catholic and told me this is just not a question they talk clearly about at church, but he agreed that in view of eternity it really will be the most important question one could ask. We talked about how we can know, and agreed that it doesn't really matter what we think about it - in the end only the truth will matter. We need God's word on this, not man's opinion. I asked if he had a choice between Church tradition, the Pope's teachings or the Bible, which would be most important and his choice was the Bible. "Do you know what the Bible teaches about eternal life?" He didn't, and wanted to know so I went on to explain the Law and Gospel right there next to the meat case at Save A Lot grocery store. People passing by seemed curious, some seemed to hang out within hearing distance, one woman cheered me on, and Abraham responded with agreement, interest and concern. He was glad to take additional info. This is one grocery shopping trip he won't soon forget.
12/24/09 Jose, 73, and his wife, Abila
Today I received a free hour-long Spanish lesson, along with coffee and bread, compliments of a retired Mexican-American couple I met at Dunkin' Donuts. Jose and Abila were in no hurry and delighted to be able to help me practice my Spanish as much as I was glad to be able to share the Gospel with them. They knew more English than I knew Spanish, and patiently waited and provided correction while I tried to find the right Spanish words. We talked about "righteousness, self-control and the judgment to come" (Acts 24:25) and God's gift of salvation in Christ. Jose and Abila have been attending a local Catholic church for 37 years, but are very unhappy there because of what they see as its constant greedy appeals for money. They were not at all threatened by the possibility that they may need to find a different church, and asked a lot about mine. They were glad to hear that we have Spanish services at a location nearby. It was hard to know exactly how they were responding to their need to repent and put their faith in Jesus - language barriers often cause people to act agreeable when in truth they don't really understand everything - so I was glad I had a Spanish tract to leave with them. I tried to impress on them the need to put the Bible first, before church traditions. May God bless them as they were a blessing and an encouragement to me.
Today I received a free hour-long Spanish lesson, along with coffee and bread, compliments of a retired Mexican-American couple I met at Dunkin' Donuts. Jose and Abila were in no hurry and delighted to be able to help me practice my Spanish as much as I was glad to be able to share the Gospel with them. They knew more English than I knew Spanish, and patiently waited and provided correction while I tried to find the right Spanish words. We talked about "righteousness, self-control and the judgment to come" (Acts 24:25) and God's gift of salvation in Christ. Jose and Abila have been attending a local Catholic church for 37 years, but are very unhappy there because of what they see as its constant greedy appeals for money. They were not at all threatened by the possibility that they may need to find a different church, and asked a lot about mine. They were glad to hear that we have Spanish services at a location nearby. It was hard to know exactly how they were responding to their need to repent and put their faith in Jesus - language barriers often cause people to act agreeable when in truth they don't really understand everything - so I was glad I had a Spanish tract to leave with them. I tried to impress on them the need to put the Bible first, before church traditions. May God bless them as they were a blessing and an encouragement to me.
12/25/09 Jaime, about 30
"Merry Christmas!" At a gas station I greeted a fellow customer at the gas pumps and gave him a million dollar bill tract. He laughed and we talked some about Christmas and family. Jaime had been putting new toys together for his young children and was out looking for batteries and other parts. I explained the purpose of the tract and told him that I want to see him in heaven one day. He is Catholic and believes himself to be good enough for heaven, but the mirror of the Ten Commandments helped him to see his true position as a lawbreaker before God and deserving of punishment due to God's justice. He readily agreed to this, but really didn't know why Jesus had come into the world that first Christmas. He saw Jesus as a teacher who brought peace to all people, and the cross as an example of Christ's humility. I told him that the Bible says that it was much more than that - Jesus was God's sacrifice for all who will trust Him in place of the punishment we deserve. He allows us to have peace with God, for "while we were yet sinners, Christ died for us". (Romans 5:8) It's a mistake to think that all people are God's children, but because of Jesus "all who received him, to those who believed in his name, he gave the right to become children of God" (John 1) Jaime was very appreciative of this conversation as we both headed back home to be with our families.
"Merry Christmas!" At a gas station I greeted a fellow customer at the gas pumps and gave him a million dollar bill tract. He laughed and we talked some about Christmas and family. Jaime had been putting new toys together for his young children and was out looking for batteries and other parts. I explained the purpose of the tract and told him that I want to see him in heaven one day. He is Catholic and believes himself to be good enough for heaven, but the mirror of the Ten Commandments helped him to see his true position as a lawbreaker before God and deserving of punishment due to God's justice. He readily agreed to this, but really didn't know why Jesus had come into the world that first Christmas. He saw Jesus as a teacher who brought peace to all people, and the cross as an example of Christ's humility. I told him that the Bible says that it was much more than that - Jesus was God's sacrifice for all who will trust Him in place of the punishment we deserve. He allows us to have peace with God, for "while we were yet sinners, Christ died for us". (Romans 5:8) It's a mistake to think that all people are God's children, but because of Jesus "all who received him, to those who believed in his name, he gave the right to become children of God" (John 1) Jaime was very appreciative of this conversation as we both headed back home to be with our families.
12/24/09 Carlos, about 18, Noreen, about 65
On our way home from a shopping errand, Anne and I stopped at a laundromat to pass out some million dollar tracts and hopefully initiate a gospel conversation. We found a friendly young man, Carlos, helping a family friend, Noreen, with her laundry. They both began with the idea that, though not perfect, they certainly were good enough for heaven. Once I talked about God's standard of perfection based on the Ten Commandments, they went to "Plan B" - the idea that God will simply forgive their sins as long as they confess them regularly. I asked them if an earthly judge would forgive a murderer just because he confesses, or because he has done some good deeds to make up for his crime. They could see that a good judge would not ignore justice just because someone admits their guilt or tries to bribe him with good behavior, and neither will God. "God loves people, but He also loves justice, so no sin will go unpunished." Sin has a high price and I told them of what they had heard in church - that God gave His Son to take the punishment for those who will trust Him. "Jesus died for us because we are sinners, not because we are good people, and our faith needs to be in Jesus alone." They agreed with all of this yet some of their subsequent statements led us to believe they still didn't "get it" - they constantly drift back toward a works-based salvation. Nonetheless, Anne and I later prayed for them, that God can break through with faith in Christ alone for salvation.
On our way home from a shopping errand, Anne and I stopped at a laundromat to pass out some million dollar tracts and hopefully initiate a gospel conversation. We found a friendly young man, Carlos, helping a family friend, Noreen, with her laundry. They both began with the idea that, though not perfect, they certainly were good enough for heaven. Once I talked about God's standard of perfection based on the Ten Commandments, they went to "Plan B" - the idea that God will simply forgive their sins as long as they confess them regularly. I asked them if an earthly judge would forgive a murderer just because he confesses, or because he has done some good deeds to make up for his crime. They could see that a good judge would not ignore justice just because someone admits their guilt or tries to bribe him with good behavior, and neither will God. "God loves people, but He also loves justice, so no sin will go unpunished." Sin has a high price and I told them of what they had heard in church - that God gave His Son to take the punishment for those who will trust Him. "Jesus died for us because we are sinners, not because we are good people, and our faith needs to be in Jesus alone." They agreed with all of this yet some of their subsequent statements led us to believe they still didn't "get it" - they constantly drift back toward a works-based salvation. Nonetheless, Anne and I later prayed for them, that God can break through with faith in Christ alone for salvation.
12/23/09 Jose, about 20, and Tabitha, about 30
Routine grocery shopping has become an adventure! Today I was blessed with two wonderful conversations and I can't decide which one to write about, so I'll describe both briefly. Jose responded to my question about heaven by saying he has seen it himself. He had been near death in a coma for 5 weeks and described seeing a white light. He felt he would go to heaven based on his good deeds in helping others and he really seemed to be a "good person" compared to most. But compared to the Ten Commandments Jose understood that God's standard is perfection and that he doesn't measure up. He deserves God's wrath instead. He was hungry to hear about salvation through faith in Jesus, and told me "It's all so clear to me now!" I gave him more information, saying he may forget much of what I said. He gladly took it but assured me he would remember everything. I told him to have a heart to heart talk with God before he goes to sleep tonight and he said "You can be sure I will!" I was so encouraged by Jose, and a minute later met Tabitha, who has been attending a Pentecostal church for her entire life. However she was amazed to find out that one can't "earn" heaven by being a good person. She was truly excited to learn as I explained Ephesians 2:8-9 - "For it is by grace you have been saved, through faith—and this not from yourselves, it is the gift of God— not by works, so that no one can boast."
Routine grocery shopping has become an adventure! Today I was blessed with two wonderful conversations and I can't decide which one to write about, so I'll describe both briefly. Jose responded to my question about heaven by saying he has seen it himself. He had been near death in a coma for 5 weeks and described seeing a white light. He felt he would go to heaven based on his good deeds in helping others and he really seemed to be a "good person" compared to most. But compared to the Ten Commandments Jose understood that God's standard is perfection and that he doesn't measure up. He deserves God's wrath instead. He was hungry to hear about salvation through faith in Jesus, and told me "It's all so clear to me now!" I gave him more information, saying he may forget much of what I said. He gladly took it but assured me he would remember everything. I told him to have a heart to heart talk with God before he goes to sleep tonight and he said "You can be sure I will!" I was so encouraged by Jose, and a minute later met Tabitha, who has been attending a Pentecostal church for her entire life. However she was amazed to find out that one can't "earn" heaven by being a good person. She was truly excited to learn as I explained Ephesians 2:8-9 - "For it is by grace you have been saved, through faith—and this not from yourselves, it is the gift of God— not by works, so that no one can boast."
12/22/09 Christopher, about 30
Today I went shopping in downtown Chicago and hoped to find someone who looked like they might have a little time for a conversation. I made the mistake of looking for the "perfect" person and circumstances (whatever that means) and passed a lot of people up in the process. I was also with two of my children and this made it difficult too, because who wants to risk rejection in front of their friends or family? Yet I know I need to do this if I ever want to teach or set an example for others, so a new goal for myself is that in coming weeks I will begin to witness to people while in the presence of friends or family. I ended up dropping my kids off at home and going back out, and used a million dollar track to start a conversation with Christopher who was waiting at a bus stop. He grew up Catholic and told me he "studied Catholicism for 16 years" but isn't currently active in the church "for personal reasons". Like the vast majority of people, he knows he isn't perfect but believes he is good enough to go to heaven, and he really had no idea what Jesus came for. The Commandments helped him see his true state before God, including the fact that "whoever keeps the whole law and yet stumbles at just one point is guilty of breaking all of it" (James 2:10) The bus was on its way, so I just turned this into a friendly reminder to put his faith in Jesus, and not in his own perceived goodness.
Today I went shopping in downtown Chicago and hoped to find someone who looked like they might have a little time for a conversation. I made the mistake of looking for the "perfect" person and circumstances (whatever that means) and passed a lot of people up in the process. I was also with two of my children and this made it difficult too, because who wants to risk rejection in front of their friends or family? Yet I know I need to do this if I ever want to teach or set an example for others, so a new goal for myself is that in coming weeks I will begin to witness to people while in the presence of friends or family. I ended up dropping my kids off at home and going back out, and used a million dollar track to start a conversation with Christopher who was waiting at a bus stop. He grew up Catholic and told me he "studied Catholicism for 16 years" but isn't currently active in the church "for personal reasons". Like the vast majority of people, he knows he isn't perfect but believes he is good enough to go to heaven, and he really had no idea what Jesus came for. The Commandments helped him see his true state before God, including the fact that "whoever keeps the whole law and yet stumbles at just one point is guilty of breaking all of it" (James 2:10) The bus was on its way, so I just turned this into a friendly reminder to put his faith in Jesus, and not in his own perceived goodness.
12/21/09 Jorge and Martin, 40's
While out jogging I stopped in at Dunkin' Donuts and asked two men drinking coffee at a table if I could sit with them and ask a few questions. Jorge and Martin will be spending Christmas in Chicago, away from their families once again because they live in Mexico. Martin, a Catholic, had limited English so I spoke mainly with Jorge who said he doesn't believe in religion. He grew up Catholic and wanted to be a priest but was talked out of it by his mother and their parish priest. He seemed bitter about this and now rejects organized religion because it is so full of hypocracy. He also had a lot of exposure to Muslims and Mormons in his home town. As he has fallen away from exposure to biblical truth he has developed all sorts of strange ideas including the belief that people create their own heaven or hell here on earth and that one is given repeated opportunities to live the same exact life over and over again, leading to a sense of deja vu, with the expectation that he should learn from his mistakes and not bring them into the next life. However, when I challenged him to think about what would happen if the Bible is true and we ARE accountable to God it began a long conversation full of insightful questions from Jorge. I had the privilege of sharing the Gospel and praying for both Jorge and Martin right there at the table, that God will bless their Christmas with new understanding and faith in Jesus Christ.
While out jogging I stopped in at Dunkin' Donuts and asked two men drinking coffee at a table if I could sit with them and ask a few questions. Jorge and Martin will be spending Christmas in Chicago, away from their families once again because they live in Mexico. Martin, a Catholic, had limited English so I spoke mainly with Jorge who said he doesn't believe in religion. He grew up Catholic and wanted to be a priest but was talked out of it by his mother and their parish priest. He seemed bitter about this and now rejects organized religion because it is so full of hypocracy. He also had a lot of exposure to Muslims and Mormons in his home town. As he has fallen away from exposure to biblical truth he has developed all sorts of strange ideas including the belief that people create their own heaven or hell here on earth and that one is given repeated opportunities to live the same exact life over and over again, leading to a sense of deja vu, with the expectation that he should learn from his mistakes and not bring them into the next life. However, when I challenged him to think about what would happen if the Bible is true and we ARE accountable to God it began a long conversation full of insightful questions from Jorge. I had the privilege of sharing the Gospel and praying for both Jorge and Martin right there at the table, that God will bless their Christmas with new understanding and faith in Jesus Christ.
12/20/09 Sandy, 20
At the laundromat I spoke to Sandy who works at the dry-cleaning counter. She is Catholic and believed herself good enough to go to heaven. I went through a few of the Ten Commandments which helped her personalize the fact that she has broken God's commands and deserves His wrath as a liar, a thief, a blasphemer, and a murderer and adulterer at heart. She knew herself to be guilty before God and I explained that just as a good judge won't accept bribes, God won't overlook our sin when we try to "bribe" Him with our good behavior. I asked if she was concerned about this and she was, but she shrugged her shoulders and said "It's in God's hands. What can I do about it?" I tried to explain by using the analogy of a courtroom in which Sandy is fined more than she could ever pay for breaking the law. Someone she doesn't know offers to pay her fine for her. Would she accept this gift on her behalf or get thrown in jail for life instead? "I couldn't allow someone to pay my fine for me, I'd take the punishment myself!" Sandy was reasoning that the right thing to do would be to take responsibility for her actions, but I said "the fine has already been paid for you as a gift. Its too late to undo". "Well, I would take it then" replied Sandy. "And that's what Jesus did on your behalf and mine on the cross". Sandy had to get back to work, but I could tell this made a lot of sense to her and I believe she will read the info I gave her.
At the laundromat I spoke to Sandy who works at the dry-cleaning counter. She is Catholic and believed herself good enough to go to heaven. I went through a few of the Ten Commandments which helped her personalize the fact that she has broken God's commands and deserves His wrath as a liar, a thief, a blasphemer, and a murderer and adulterer at heart. She knew herself to be guilty before God and I explained that just as a good judge won't accept bribes, God won't overlook our sin when we try to "bribe" Him with our good behavior. I asked if she was concerned about this and she was, but she shrugged her shoulders and said "It's in God's hands. What can I do about it?" I tried to explain by using the analogy of a courtroom in which Sandy is fined more than she could ever pay for breaking the law. Someone she doesn't know offers to pay her fine for her. Would she accept this gift on her behalf or get thrown in jail for life instead? "I couldn't allow someone to pay my fine for me, I'd take the punishment myself!" Sandy was reasoning that the right thing to do would be to take responsibility for her actions, but I said "the fine has already been paid for you as a gift. Its too late to undo". "Well, I would take it then" replied Sandy. "And that's what Jesus did on your behalf and mine on the cross". Sandy had to get back to work, but I could tell this made a lot of sense to her and I believe she will read the info I gave her.
12/19/09 Devin and Dan, early 20's
Late Saturday night at the grocery store everyone seemed to be buying beer, liquor, and party snacks. Devin and Dan were an obviously gay couple, and I got their attention and a few laughs with the million dollar bill tracts. I told them I'm from a church nearby and pointed out the million-dollar question on the back asking if they thought they will go to heaven. Dan did the speaking for them, and told me he is Catholic but doesn't go to church because he is always working. He believes in God, but didn't seem to have thought much about eternal things. I spoke of the Ten Commandments and our accountability before God. They both seemed very cautious, not sure where this was going and I believe just waiting for a judgmental comment about their gay lifestyle. But the Ten Commandments are universal; we all stand condemned before them including Devin and Dan without reference to their lifestyle. I believe had I done so it would have given them permission to see themselves as the victims of a judgmental world rather than sinners in need of salvation. I told them I was telling them all this because this life is just a flash in the pan compared to eternity, and they need to take it seriously. Their reaction and body language made me think my time to speak with them was limited and that I was wearing out my welcome. I believe this was enough to challenge them with for now; I'm hoping God will take it from there.
Late Saturday night at the grocery store everyone seemed to be buying beer, liquor, and party snacks. Devin and Dan were an obviously gay couple, and I got their attention and a few laughs with the million dollar bill tracts. I told them I'm from a church nearby and pointed out the million-dollar question on the back asking if they thought they will go to heaven. Dan did the speaking for them, and told me he is Catholic but doesn't go to church because he is always working. He believes in God, but didn't seem to have thought much about eternal things. I spoke of the Ten Commandments and our accountability before God. They both seemed very cautious, not sure where this was going and I believe just waiting for a judgmental comment about their gay lifestyle. But the Ten Commandments are universal; we all stand condemned before them including Devin and Dan without reference to their lifestyle. I believe had I done so it would have given them permission to see themselves as the victims of a judgmental world rather than sinners in need of salvation. I told them I was telling them all this because this life is just a flash in the pan compared to eternity, and they need to take it seriously. Their reaction and body language made me think my time to speak with them was limited and that I was wearing out my welcome. I believe this was enough to challenge them with for now; I'm hoping God will take it from there.
12/18/09 Anthony, about 20
While Christmas shopping at Woodfield Mall I saw dozens of people just sitting around so I talked with a few. Anthony was waiting for some friends outside a store and said he had a few minutes to talk. He told me that sometimes he believes in God and sometimes he doesn't. He finds it hard to believe in a God who would allow little children to suffer and die for no reason. "They're innocent and they don't deserve what happens to them" he said. I observed that he believes strongly in the ideas of fair play and justice and he agreed that he does, so I then asked what he thinks he would deserve from God if there is a judgment day. It wasn't an easy question to answer, and as he thought about it his friends came out and were ready to go. I gave him some more info and restated a thought that seemed to get his attention in the first place, that the possibility that we will live eternally is too important not to take seriously.
While Christmas shopping at Woodfield Mall I saw dozens of people just sitting around so I talked with a few. Anthony was waiting for some friends outside a store and said he had a few minutes to talk. He told me that sometimes he believes in God and sometimes he doesn't. He finds it hard to believe in a God who would allow little children to suffer and die for no reason. "They're innocent and they don't deserve what happens to them" he said. I observed that he believes strongly in the ideas of fair play and justice and he agreed that he does, so I then asked what he thinks he would deserve from God if there is a judgment day. It wasn't an easy question to answer, and as he thought about it his friends came out and were ready to go. I gave him some more info and restated a thought that seemed to get his attention in the first place, that the possibility that we will live eternally is too important not to take seriously.
12/17/09 Tony, about 30
Tony came to my house to purchase an item I had advertised on Craig's List. We chatted for a while and as he got ready to leave I found it so easy to say "Hey Tony, it would be wrong of me to let you leave without asking you this question." "Sure, what is it?" I asked about his spiritual beliefs and he set everything down and thought for a moment with a smile on his face. I would never have guessed from our prior small talk that he would enjoy talking about God's existence (he prefers the certainty of science but admits it is limited: something or Someone outside of our understanding must have created matter and energy); eternal life (he thinks it arrogant to assume we are anything more than mortal beings); morality (he can't understand a God who would have such high standards that we are set up for failure); redemption (he rejects the idea of being "beholden" to God for sacrificing His Son for our sins); and free will (he thinks the goal of free will should be freedom from dependence on God). It seems that many people I talk to are unbelievers due to ignorance of these issues, but Tony clearly has thought them through and remains an unbeliever due to pride. He can't bring himself to be humble before a sovereign and holy God - and I agree, for on our own none of us can.
Tony came to my house to purchase an item I had advertised on Craig's List. We chatted for a while and as he got ready to leave I found it so easy to say "Hey Tony, it would be wrong of me to let you leave without asking you this question." "Sure, what is it?" I asked about his spiritual beliefs and he set everything down and thought for a moment with a smile on his face. I would never have guessed from our prior small talk that he would enjoy talking about God's existence (he prefers the certainty of science but admits it is limited: something or Someone outside of our understanding must have created matter and energy); eternal life (he thinks it arrogant to assume we are anything more than mortal beings); morality (he can't understand a God who would have such high standards that we are set up for failure); redemption (he rejects the idea of being "beholden" to God for sacrificing His Son for our sins); and free will (he thinks the goal of free will should be freedom from dependence on God). It seems that many people I talk to are unbelievers due to ignorance of these issues, but Tony clearly has thought them through and remains an unbeliever due to pride. He can't bring himself to be humble before a sovereign and holy God - and I agree, for on our own none of us can.
12/16/09 Delano, 22 and Eugene, about 25
In the plumbing section at Home Depot I walked up to two young black men and offered them million dollar bill tracts, asking about heaven and telling them I want to see them there one day. "Oh I'll be there, most definitely" Delano said enthusiastically. "How can you be sure?" "Well I haven't done anything bad that would keep me out" said Delano. He then went on to say he has been getting involved in the Nation of Islam (led by Louis Farrakhan). His friend Eugene told me "I've accepted Jesus as my personal savior." which surprised me, because he was dressed more like the Hollywood caricature of a street hustler or a pimp, with a long full-length fur coat and other accessories. After some conversation with both of them, I concluded that Delano is more of a Nation of Islam "wannabee", whose basic understanding of religion is that of earning God's favor by good works, and to him the Nation of Islam seems like the coolest way to do that. Eugene kept repeating "I've accepted Jesus as my personal savior", and I could tell that this overused phrase didn't have much meaning for him, and he lacked both understanding of what it meant and the repentance to go along with it. I focused on presenting the law to Delano, knowing that Eugene would also learn a lot from our conversation. In the end Delano (and hopefully Eugene) clearly knew that he is in need of the forgiveness that can only come through repentance and faith in Jesus, and I encouraged him to have a heart to heart talk with God before his head hit the pillow that night.
In the plumbing section at Home Depot I walked up to two young black men and offered them million dollar bill tracts, asking about heaven and telling them I want to see them there one day. "Oh I'll be there, most definitely" Delano said enthusiastically. "How can you be sure?" "Well I haven't done anything bad that would keep me out" said Delano. He then went on to say he has been getting involved in the Nation of Islam (led by Louis Farrakhan). His friend Eugene told me "I've accepted Jesus as my personal savior." which surprised me, because he was dressed more like the Hollywood caricature of a street hustler or a pimp, with a long full-length fur coat and other accessories. After some conversation with both of them, I concluded that Delano is more of a Nation of Islam "wannabee", whose basic understanding of religion is that of earning God's favor by good works, and to him the Nation of Islam seems like the coolest way to do that. Eugene kept repeating "I've accepted Jesus as my personal savior", and I could tell that this overused phrase didn't have much meaning for him, and he lacked both understanding of what it meant and the repentance to go along with it. I focused on presenting the law to Delano, knowing that Eugene would also learn a lot from our conversation. In the end Delano (and hopefully Eugene) clearly knew that he is in need of the forgiveness that can only come through repentance and faith in Jesus, and I encouraged him to have a heart to heart talk with God before his head hit the pillow that night.
12/15/09 Curt, about 24
I went jogging after work and stopped by the IIT student center where Curt, a graduate student, was reading a book. He agreed to answer my questions and told me he believes in "Karma", which to him is the idea that "what goes around comes around." Somehow I wasn't surprised, given his long hair and John Lennon wire rimmed glasses. He said he doesn't believe in God or eternal life but thinks that within this life we reap what we sow. He believes he is beyond the need to be rewarded or punished for his behavior, that he is a good person regardless. I asked if he based his beliefs on an established religion and Curt said that he doesn't like the idea of religion telling him what he can and can't do, he would rather do what he feels is right. I asked "What happens when your moods change, does your idea of right and wrong change with them? And have you been able to follow your idea of right and wrong?" These were questions Curt really couldn't answer. He told me he had grown up in a Lutheran church but ultimately rejected it because of the hypocrisy he witnessed, beginning with an alcoholic pastor. "But what if the Bible IS true, how would you do if you died and found yourself before God's judgment throne?" Curt answered "It depends on if it's the God of the Old Testament or the New Testament. It seems like God had some sort of mid-life crisis or something. He seems so much more nice and forgiving in the New Testament." I told him I used to think the same way until I found out that Jesus warned more about hell than he spoke of heaven, and gave a more strict interpretation of the Ten Commandments. I reminded him how Jesus said calling your brother a fool in anger is like murder, and looking with lust is committing adultery in ones heart. (Matthew 5) "Hell is very real according to the Bible, and we need to take it seriously". I expected Curt to reject this, but instead he seemed to warm up to what I was saying. I was surprised at his change in countenance. He told me he had read the Bible several times through and used to teach Sunday school, and I could tell that biblical truths he had long since dismissed were starting to make sense.
I went jogging after work and stopped by the IIT student center where Curt, a graduate student, was reading a book. He agreed to answer my questions and told me he believes in "Karma", which to him is the idea that "what goes around comes around." Somehow I wasn't surprised, given his long hair and John Lennon wire rimmed glasses. He said he doesn't believe in God or eternal life but thinks that within this life we reap what we sow. He believes he is beyond the need to be rewarded or punished for his behavior, that he is a good person regardless. I asked if he based his beliefs on an established religion and Curt said that he doesn't like the idea of religion telling him what he can and can't do, he would rather do what he feels is right. I asked "What happens when your moods change, does your idea of right and wrong change with them? And have you been able to follow your idea of right and wrong?" These were questions Curt really couldn't answer. He told me he had grown up in a Lutheran church but ultimately rejected it because of the hypocrisy he witnessed, beginning with an alcoholic pastor. "But what if the Bible IS true, how would you do if you died and found yourself before God's judgment throne?" Curt answered "It depends on if it's the God of the Old Testament or the New Testament. It seems like God had some sort of mid-life crisis or something. He seems so much more nice and forgiving in the New Testament." I told him I used to think the same way until I found out that Jesus warned more about hell than he spoke of heaven, and gave a more strict interpretation of the Ten Commandments. I reminded him how Jesus said calling your brother a fool in anger is like murder, and looking with lust is committing adultery in ones heart. (Matthew 5) "Hell is very real according to the Bible, and we need to take it seriously". I expected Curt to reject this, but instead he seemed to warm up to what I was saying. I was surprised at his change in countenance. He told me he had read the Bible several times through and used to teach Sunday school, and I could tell that biblical truths he had long since dismissed were starting to make sense.
12/14/09 Mario, about 35
"I want to see you in heaven someday!" Do people get offended by a complete stranger telling them this sincerely? No one in my experiences has so far. I told this to Mario, a shopper at Home Depot, after I had struck up a conversation with the question "Will you go to heaven?" on the back of the million dollar tract. He obviously hadn't put much thought into questions about eternity, trusting that his church attendance will keep him in good standing with God. I tried to help him understand that God has a different standard - the Ten Commandments - and as I talked about a few he realized he hadn't kept them as well as he thought. He had to get back to his shopping, but my hope is that even a brief conversation about eternal things can help bring him a few steps forward toward a right relationship with God.
"I want to see you in heaven someday!" Do people get offended by a complete stranger telling them this sincerely? No one in my experiences has so far. I told this to Mario, a shopper at Home Depot, after I had struck up a conversation with the question "Will you go to heaven?" on the back of the million dollar tract. He obviously hadn't put much thought into questions about eternity, trusting that his church attendance will keep him in good standing with God. I tried to help him understand that God has a different standard - the Ten Commandments - and as I talked about a few he realized he hadn't kept them as well as he thought. He had to get back to his shopping, but my hope is that even a brief conversation about eternal things can help bring him a few steps forward toward a right relationship with God.
12/13/09 Amit, Anirudh, early 20's
How long does it take to "earn the right to be heard"? For a long time I thought that if I wanted to share the gospel in a meaningful way with someone, I would need to invest countless hours building a relationship and trust to the point that they would reach out to me with questions about the hope within me. I am reminded that all of this isn't necessary if I am the one doing the reaching out. Today we had a "Kings Banquet" at church (based on Jesus' parable), to which many people came from all walks of life. Amit and Anirudh are the Hindu roommates of Santosh, a Christian from India, and they came at his invitation. I spent some time with them learning much about their Hindu beliefs and culture, adding to what I've learned from talking with other Hindus. I then asked if I could share the basic message of Christianity, which they had no knowledge of. They listened intently as I shared about the Ten Commandments (also new to them), our sin, our need of forgiveness, and redemption in Jesus. (Check out an excellent post on "winning the right to be heard" and "friendship evangelism" from Tony Miano at The Lawman Chronicles.)
How long does it take to "earn the right to be heard"? For a long time I thought that if I wanted to share the gospel in a meaningful way with someone, I would need to invest countless hours building a relationship and trust to the point that they would reach out to me with questions about the hope within me. I am reminded that all of this isn't necessary if I am the one doing the reaching out. Today we had a "Kings Banquet" at church (based on Jesus' parable), to which many people came from all walks of life. Amit and Anirudh are the Hindu roommates of Santosh, a Christian from India, and they came at his invitation. I spent some time with them learning much about their Hindu beliefs and culture, adding to what I've learned from talking with other Hindus. I then asked if I could share the basic message of Christianity, which they had no knowledge of. They listened intently as I shared about the Ten Commandments (also new to them), our sin, our need of forgiveness, and redemption in Jesus. (Check out an excellent post on "winning the right to be heard" and "friendship evangelism" from Tony Miano at The Lawman Chronicles.)
12/12/09 Alex, Nina, both about 40
After the Men's Breakfast at church today Jonathan and I went to the laundromat a block away to share our hope in Christ. A middle aged man named Alex told me he is from Russia and has no religious background but hopes he could go to heaven if there is one. It turned out that his English was too limited to talk much further which was frustrating for both of us. I turned to talk to Nina, who was also from Russia but didn't know Alex. She has been in America for five years and spoke better English. Nina grew up in the Russian Orthodox Church and had religious classes there as a child. She was familiar with the Ten Commandments. I took her through an explanation of God's law and grace, using various analogies to explain my points. One that seemed to resonate was the idea that in a human courtroom, a good judge will not accept a bribe of any sort in exchange for ignoring justice, and neither will God. He won't accept our good works as a bribe to pay for the times we have broken His commandments. The punishment for our sins will be paid. Nina kept smiling and agreeing to everything I said. I thought maybe her English is not as good as she said and she's just trying to politely let me have my say and be on my way, so I checked several times to ask if what I was saying made sense. I kind of doubt she understood everything I shared, but God can make just one seed of truth grow to eternal life. Please pray He will.
After the Men's Breakfast at church today Jonathan and I went to the laundromat a block away to share our hope in Christ. A middle aged man named Alex told me he is from Russia and has no religious background but hopes he could go to heaven if there is one. It turned out that his English was too limited to talk much further which was frustrating for both of us. I turned to talk to Nina, who was also from Russia but didn't know Alex. She has been in America for five years and spoke better English. Nina grew up in the Russian Orthodox Church and had religious classes there as a child. She was familiar with the Ten Commandments. I took her through an explanation of God's law and grace, using various analogies to explain my points. One that seemed to resonate was the idea that in a human courtroom, a good judge will not accept a bribe of any sort in exchange for ignoring justice, and neither will God. He won't accept our good works as a bribe to pay for the times we have broken His commandments. The punishment for our sins will be paid. Nina kept smiling and agreeing to everything I said. I thought maybe her English is not as good as she said and she's just trying to politely let me have my say and be on my way, so I checked several times to ask if what I was saying made sense. I kind of doubt she understood everything I shared, but God can make just one seed of truth grow to eternal life. Please pray He will.
12/11/09 Amal, about 30
I had a lot of groceries to find and decided to give out the million dollar "Will you go to heaven?" / Are you a good person?" tracts as I pushed my shopping cart. I just kept them in my hand and gave them to anyone who happened to cross my path, without pushing real hard for a conversation. I talked briefly with most people as I pointed out the questions on the back, but since I wasn't really taking the initiative to start a deeper conversation they generally continued on with their shopping. I am reminded that as Christians we are the ones that God rightfully expects to take the initiative in reaching out to others and it will be a long wait if we expect them to reach out to us. One very professional looking young woman told me that of course she is a good person, since she is a Muslim. Amal was not wearing traditional Muslim clothes such as a head scarf, and she told me that since she is a schoolteacher she is excused from her obligation to pray five times a day. She said she falls short of keeping the Ten Commandments and knows she will be accountable for this on judgment day. I told her that one major difference between Christians and Muslims is that Christians understand that there is a price for forgiveness - God's justice will be served - and that we believe that only Jesus could pay that price on the cross. It was more of an informative conversation rather than a debate, and Amal was appreciative of this approach.
I had a lot of groceries to find and decided to give out the million dollar "Will you go to heaven?" / Are you a good person?" tracts as I pushed my shopping cart. I just kept them in my hand and gave them to anyone who happened to cross my path, without pushing real hard for a conversation. I talked briefly with most people as I pointed out the questions on the back, but since I wasn't really taking the initiative to start a deeper conversation they generally continued on with their shopping. I am reminded that as Christians we are the ones that God rightfully expects to take the initiative in reaching out to others and it will be a long wait if we expect them to reach out to us. One very professional looking young woman told me that of course she is a good person, since she is a Muslim. Amal was not wearing traditional Muslim clothes such as a head scarf, and she told me that since she is a schoolteacher she is excused from her obligation to pray five times a day. She said she falls short of keeping the Ten Commandments and knows she will be accountable for this on judgment day. I told her that one major difference between Christians and Muslims is that Christians understand that there is a price for forgiveness - God's justice will be served - and that we believe that only Jesus could pay that price on the cross. It was more of an informative conversation rather than a debate, and Amal was appreciative of this approach.
12/10/09 Frederico, 18 Michael, 19
At the IIT student center I began a conversation with Frederico and Michael by asking about the meaning of Christmas. "Spending time with family" said Frederico. "Getting time off of school" according to Michael. They are both from Mexico on a five day trip visiting a friend who is a student at IIT. Both said they don't believe in God or eternal life. They said that back in their town in Mexico the only people who really believe in God are poor people who worship various saints in the Catholic Church, but most of their middle class friends either don't believe in God or go along with the superficial religion of their family. They also both said they don't think it is even possible that God exists, so I spent some time asking how matter and energy came to be in the first place. They couldn't have created themselves, therefore something totally outside our understanding must have created them. Frederico asked if I thought this was a sort of impersonal force. I told them that since at some point a decision was made to create, then this creative being must have a personality if making decisions, choosing one thing over another, and having preferences implies the existence of a personality. I also explained that if God does exist, His existence doesn't depend on our belief in Him in the same way choosing not to believe an oncoming truck won't hurt us won't change what happens to us if we stand in front of it. This seemed to make sense to them and I went on to present their accountability before God on judgment day. They forgot their excuse of not believing in God and tried to trivialize their sin, then tried to claim their good would make up for their guilt. After all this, they were ready to hear how they could possibly have their case dismissed so they wouldn't have to stand in guilt on judgment day. Just as I finished explaining God's gift of forgiveness through faith in Jesus, their IIT contact arrived to meet them. I thank God for His perfect timing.
At the IIT student center I began a conversation with Frederico and Michael by asking about the meaning of Christmas. "Spending time with family" said Frederico. "Getting time off of school" according to Michael. They are both from Mexico on a five day trip visiting a friend who is a student at IIT. Both said they don't believe in God or eternal life. They said that back in their town in Mexico the only people who really believe in God are poor people who worship various saints in the Catholic Church, but most of their middle class friends either don't believe in God or go along with the superficial religion of their family. They also both said they don't think it is even possible that God exists, so I spent some time asking how matter and energy came to be in the first place. They couldn't have created themselves, therefore something totally outside our understanding must have created them. Frederico asked if I thought this was a sort of impersonal force. I told them that since at some point a decision was made to create, then this creative being must have a personality if making decisions, choosing one thing over another, and having preferences implies the existence of a personality. I also explained that if God does exist, His existence doesn't depend on our belief in Him in the same way choosing not to believe an oncoming truck won't hurt us won't change what happens to us if we stand in front of it. This seemed to make sense to them and I went on to present their accountability before God on judgment day. They forgot their excuse of not believing in God and tried to trivialize their sin, then tried to claim their good would make up for their guilt. After all this, they were ready to hear how they could possibly have their case dismissed so they wouldn't have to stand in guilt on judgment day. Just as I finished explaining God's gift of forgiveness through faith in Jesus, their IIT contact arrived to meet them. I thank God for His perfect timing.
12/09/09 Lee, about 25
At the laundromat I used a million dollar tract to start a conversation with a young man from China. He doesn't believe in God, even saying that there is no possibility that God exists. He had also never heard of the Ten Commandments, but said that he knew right from wrong based on his conscience. This was helpful later in our conversation because I could explain that all people are held accountable for their sin regardless of their knowledge of the Bible since they all know right from wrong. Lee said he had several friends who have been trying to convince him to believe in God, but he feels they aren't open to his opinion that God doesn't exist. I told him I truly believe in God but if He doesn't exist I will have nothing to lose, whereas an atheist will have everything to lose if he is wrong. One point of disagreement Lee had with his friends was that a bad man could put his faith in God when he is dying and go to heaven, whereas a good man could live his whole life but not believe in God and would go to hell. Lee thought this is unfair. I asked him if he considered himself to be a good person and took him through the commandments. He saw his guilt up close and personal and that was about all he could take; his clothes were ready to go and so was he. I gave him more info as he was leaving, and I hope he reads about the good news of Jesus that follows the law that I shared.
At the laundromat I used a million dollar tract to start a conversation with a young man from China. He doesn't believe in God, even saying that there is no possibility that God exists. He had also never heard of the Ten Commandments, but said that he knew right from wrong based on his conscience. This was helpful later in our conversation because I could explain that all people are held accountable for their sin regardless of their knowledge of the Bible since they all know right from wrong. Lee said he had several friends who have been trying to convince him to believe in God, but he feels they aren't open to his opinion that God doesn't exist. I told him I truly believe in God but if He doesn't exist I will have nothing to lose, whereas an atheist will have everything to lose if he is wrong. One point of disagreement Lee had with his friends was that a bad man could put his faith in God when he is dying and go to heaven, whereas a good man could live his whole life but not believe in God and would go to hell. Lee thought this is unfair. I asked him if he considered himself to be a good person and took him through the commandments. He saw his guilt up close and personal and that was about all he could take; his clothes were ready to go and so was he. I gave him more info as he was leaving, and I hope he reads about the good news of Jesus that follows the law that I shared.
12/08/09 Patricia, about 50
Today I visited a Dunkin' Donuts and asked Patricia, who sat at a table reading a newspaper, if I could ask her some opinion questions. "What is this for?" said she. "I'm from a nearby church and I'm interested in finding out about different people's beliefs. For example, what does Christmas mean to you?" Her answer: "Christmas is when we celebrate Jesus' birth" "Do you have a church background?" said I. Patricia told me all about the various traditions she had celebrated as she grew up in Mexico, including the Posadas, which reenact Mary and Joseph's search for shelter, and the celebration of "Our Lady of Guadalupe", believed to be an appearance of Mary in the 1500's. Patricia was very knowledgeable about all this and views herself as a good person who tries her best. She knows she isn't perfect, but believes that a long illness or purgatory will purify her soul. She knows purgatory isn't found in the Bible, yet stated that if anyone adds to God's word it wouldn't be God's word. She believes her goodness will save her, yet also stated that Jesus died for our sins, so I pointed out these contradictions. She had to get back to work at her job nearby, so I just encouraged her to avoid the mistake that so many people make - trusting her good deeds will save her. "There's nothing we can add to what Jesus has already done for us on the cross."
Today I visited a Dunkin' Donuts and asked Patricia, who sat at a table reading a newspaper, if I could ask her some opinion questions. "What is this for?" said she. "I'm from a nearby church and I'm interested in finding out about different people's beliefs. For example, what does Christmas mean to you?" Her answer: "Christmas is when we celebrate Jesus' birth" "Do you have a church background?" said I. Patricia told me all about the various traditions she had celebrated as she grew up in Mexico, including the Posadas, which reenact Mary and Joseph's search for shelter, and the celebration of "Our Lady of Guadalupe", believed to be an appearance of Mary in the 1500's. Patricia was very knowledgeable about all this and views herself as a good person who tries her best. She knows she isn't perfect, but believes that a long illness or purgatory will purify her soul. She knows purgatory isn't found in the Bible, yet stated that if anyone adds to God's word it wouldn't be God's word. She believes her goodness will save her, yet also stated that Jesus died for our sins, so I pointed out these contradictions. She had to get back to work at her job nearby, so I just encouraged her to avoid the mistake that so many people make - trusting her good deeds will save her. "There's nothing we can add to what Jesus has already done for us on the cross."
12/07/09 Michael, mid 20's
After work today I stopped at a busy Starbucks and asked a young man working on his laptop if I could ask a few opinion questions of him. "How long will this take, I only have about five minutes". I told him that sometimes my questions turn into conversations but I could fit them in 5 minutes, so he agreed. I asked if he considered himself spiritual or religious. He didn't but does believe in some sort of impersonal higher power. He grew up Jewish but more as a cultural identity. His family never really participated in Jewish ceremonies or holidays. He believes he is a good person and that some moral laws are absolute and apply to everyone, such as many of the Ten Commandments and the Golden Rule. He agreed that he has a moral conscience and that he sometimes goes against it. My time was almost up, so I asked if he would like a brief summary of Christianity. He agreed and I focused in on our accountability for our sin and Christ's atonement as the perfect Lamb of God, reminding Michael of the Old Testament / Jewish system of sacrifice and explaining that it was completed in Christ. There is so much more that I could have said and I probably could have been more insistent, but I wanted to honor Michael's 5 minute request. If I truly believe the Holy Spirit is the one who changes hearts, then I sure didn't want to get in the way by breaking my word.
After work today I stopped at a busy Starbucks and asked a young man working on his laptop if I could ask a few opinion questions of him. "How long will this take, I only have about five minutes". I told him that sometimes my questions turn into conversations but I could fit them in 5 minutes, so he agreed. I asked if he considered himself spiritual or religious. He didn't but does believe in some sort of impersonal higher power. He grew up Jewish but more as a cultural identity. His family never really participated in Jewish ceremonies or holidays. He believes he is a good person and that some moral laws are absolute and apply to everyone, such as many of the Ten Commandments and the Golden Rule. He agreed that he has a moral conscience and that he sometimes goes against it. My time was almost up, so I asked if he would like a brief summary of Christianity. He agreed and I focused in on our accountability for our sin and Christ's atonement as the perfect Lamb of God, reminding Michael of the Old Testament / Jewish system of sacrifice and explaining that it was completed in Christ. There is so much more that I could have said and I probably could have been more insistent, but I wanted to honor Michael's 5 minute request. If I truly believe the Holy Spirit is the one who changes hearts, then I sure didn't want to get in the way by breaking my word.
12/06/09 Abhishek, 22
While out jogging I stopped an IIT student with some questions about his beliefs. Although it was very windy and cold out there on the dark sidewalk, Abhishek, a Hindu from India, very patiently answered my questions. As a Hindu he believes in many different gods and in reincarnation into another living creature in the next life, based on his actions in this. He agreed that this implies belief in a sort of judgment day based on his actions and an ultimate spiritual authority or judge much like the biblical judgment day. I asked if he would like to hear the Christian perspective on this, and affirmed that for him to understand it doesn't mean that he has to agree with it. He appreciated this approach and listened while I showed him his guilt according to the Ten Commandments and how a just God holds us accountable for our sins. When I explained how Jesus has atoned for our sins on the cross, Abhishek said he was familiar with this, having visited a few Christian churches in his village in India. He agreed that, given my beliefs in the necessity of faith in Jesus for salvation, it would only be the right thing to do to want to tell others. He told me his commitment to Hinduism was largely cultural, not necessarily a personal decision, but he just veers toward Hinduism in matters of faith because it is so familiar to him. Abhishek was very patient and open-minded, and took interest in the additional info I gave him.
While out jogging I stopped an IIT student with some questions about his beliefs. Although it was very windy and cold out there on the dark sidewalk, Abhishek, a Hindu from India, very patiently answered my questions. As a Hindu he believes in many different gods and in reincarnation into another living creature in the next life, based on his actions in this. He agreed that this implies belief in a sort of judgment day based on his actions and an ultimate spiritual authority or judge much like the biblical judgment day. I asked if he would like to hear the Christian perspective on this, and affirmed that for him to understand it doesn't mean that he has to agree with it. He appreciated this approach and listened while I showed him his guilt according to the Ten Commandments and how a just God holds us accountable for our sins. When I explained how Jesus has atoned for our sins on the cross, Abhishek said he was familiar with this, having visited a few Christian churches in his village in India. He agreed that, given my beliefs in the necessity of faith in Jesus for salvation, it would only be the right thing to do to want to tell others. He told me his commitment to Hinduism was largely cultural, not necessarily a personal decision, but he just veers toward Hinduism in matters of faith because it is so familiar to him. Abhishek was very patient and open-minded, and took interest in the additional info I gave him.
12/05/09 Carl, 62
Late night at the grocery store I began a conversation with a man named Carl and soon found out he is a fellow believer. I asked how he came to faith in Jesus and he said "You wouldn't believe me if I told you!" "I'd love to hear about it" I told him. Carl had been "drinking and drugging" every day for 25 years until a Saturday night in August when he was 40 years old. He sat down in his hotel room and turned on the radio to listen to some jazz while drinking some vodka. At midnight a religious station took over, and as it began its opening song, Amazing Grace, Carl told me that all the true meaning of the song suddenly became clear to him. He closed his eyes to listen and when it was over, he opened them to a vision, which he described to me in detail, of Jesus on the cross, telling him, "I did this for you". He was overwhelmed with extreme guilt and began sobbing. At some point he turned the TV on and fell asleep. When he woke up Sunday morning a televangelist on TV described his situation in miraculous detail and prayed for him, and later that day in another vision God ordered him to start reading the Bible. Four months later, Carl lost all taste for alcohol and drugs, and has been following Jesus for 22 years now. I'm thankful for the wonderful fellowship I enjoyed with Carl as we encouraged each other to continue following our Lord.
Late night at the grocery store I began a conversation with a man named Carl and soon found out he is a fellow believer. I asked how he came to faith in Jesus and he said "You wouldn't believe me if I told you!" "I'd love to hear about it" I told him. Carl had been "drinking and drugging" every day for 25 years until a Saturday night in August when he was 40 years old. He sat down in his hotel room and turned on the radio to listen to some jazz while drinking some vodka. At midnight a religious station took over, and as it began its opening song, Amazing Grace, Carl told me that all the true meaning of the song suddenly became clear to him. He closed his eyes to listen and when it was over, he opened them to a vision, which he described to me in detail, of Jesus on the cross, telling him, "I did this for you". He was overwhelmed with extreme guilt and began sobbing. At some point he turned the TV on and fell asleep. When he woke up Sunday morning a televangelist on TV described his situation in miraculous detail and prayed for him, and later that day in another vision God ordered him to start reading the Bible. Four months later, Carl lost all taste for alcohol and drugs, and has been following Jesus for 22 years now. I'm thankful for the wonderful fellowship I enjoyed with Carl as we encouraged each other to continue following our Lord.
12/04/09 Jimmy, about 60
I stopped at McDonalds and started a conversation with Jimmy, an older black gentleman who was enjoying his lunch break from his job as a truck driver. He told me he believes in God and grew up in a Baptist family of 11 kids, though he alone is Pentecostal. He said that "the Baptist teachings didn't change me, but once I joined the Pentecostal church I changed a lot" He described experiences of "catching the Holy Ghost and speaking in tongues", but is now "backslidden" and doesn't attend church much anymore. He believes God would say he is a good person and told me several stories of how bad the rest of his family has treated him in comparison, then went on to describe the corrupt pastor of his sister's church. I told him that "If you stand in a garage that doesn't make you a car" and that there are many people in church who really aren't Christians. He also described an experience on the street in which 3 young white ladies shared the gospel with him, and when he told them he had been saved they reassured him that he wouldn't lose his salvation. I agreed, but told him that true believers will persevere in their faith, and those who don't should question whether they had been saved to begin with (1 John 2:3-4) Jimmy seemed typical of people who have strayed from God's word; once reminded of his sin and need of Christ alone for salvation he readily agreed. He seemed clearly energized to get back involved with church, and I hope he will.
I stopped at McDonalds and started a conversation with Jimmy, an older black gentleman who was enjoying his lunch break from his job as a truck driver. He told me he believes in God and grew up in a Baptist family of 11 kids, though he alone is Pentecostal. He said that "the Baptist teachings didn't change me, but once I joined the Pentecostal church I changed a lot" He described experiences of "catching the Holy Ghost and speaking in tongues", but is now "backslidden" and doesn't attend church much anymore. He believes God would say he is a good person and told me several stories of how bad the rest of his family has treated him in comparison, then went on to describe the corrupt pastor of his sister's church. I told him that "If you stand in a garage that doesn't make you a car" and that there are many people in church who really aren't Christians. He also described an experience on the street in which 3 young white ladies shared the gospel with him, and when he told them he had been saved they reassured him that he wouldn't lose his salvation. I agreed, but told him that true believers will persevere in their faith, and those who don't should question whether they had been saved to begin with (1 John 2:3-4) Jimmy seemed typical of people who have strayed from God's word; once reminded of his sin and need of Christ alone for salvation he readily agreed. He seemed clearly energized to get back involved with church, and I hope he will.
12/03/09 Miguel, Thomas', graduate students
After work I stopped at the IIT campus and talked to Miguel and Thomas' at a table in the student center. They are both architectual students from the island of Mallorca off the western coast of Spain. They said they don't believe in God and aren't interested in religion. They just want to finish school and get good jobs someday. I tried to get them to focus on their more distant future, telling them that if they studied in advance to prepare for exams, why wouldn't they want to prepare ahead of time for the possiblity of eternal life?. They agreed, but not enthusiastically, so I decided to end the conversation with a friendly statement that eternity is worth preparing for and leave them more info in case this sparked some interest. Looking back, I realize I forgot that most people, whether they claim to be believers or not, trust that if there IS a God they would be considered to be good by Him, so their lack of spiritual concern probably came from this belief. The mirror of the Ten Commandments could have exposed this false confidence.
After work I stopped at the IIT campus and talked to Miguel and Thomas' at a table in the student center. They are both architectual students from the island of Mallorca off the western coast of Spain. They said they don't believe in God and aren't interested in religion. They just want to finish school and get good jobs someday. I tried to get them to focus on their more distant future, telling them that if they studied in advance to prepare for exams, why wouldn't they want to prepare ahead of time for the possiblity of eternal life?. They agreed, but not enthusiastically, so I decided to end the conversation with a friendly statement that eternity is worth preparing for and leave them more info in case this sparked some interest. Looking back, I realize I forgot that most people, whether they claim to be believers or not, trust that if there IS a God they would be considered to be good by Him, so their lack of spiritual concern probably came from this belief. The mirror of the Ten Commandments could have exposed this false confidence.
12/02/09 Dave and Cherrie, late 20's
While out jogging I passed a Dunkin' Donuts and went in, sweats and all, to talk to a couple at a table. Dave seemed like a regular fellow but his friend Cherrie was heavily made up punk rock style. They were open to my questions. Cherrie told me she believes in a "life force" or karma. She is involved in the performing arts (???) and feels spiritual at times. She has explored many religions and has picked the ideas she likes the most. David said he hasn't believed in God since about age 7 when a fire-and-brimstone preacher told his parents they would go to hell. Cherrie responded to Dave's story with outrage that anyone would believe in the idea of hell let alone warn someone else that they are going there. I could tell Cherrie takes great pride in being tolerant so I appealed to this pride by telling them that I'm a Christian and asking if they'd like to hear a biblical perspective. They gave me five minutes so I pulled up a chair and began by telling them that I felt much the same way about hell until I learned that Jesus spent more time warning people about hell than He talked about heaven. Cherrie had heard that people go to hell for not believing in Jesus (not true) so I used the analogy of the law of gravity and a parachute to explain that just as jumping out of an airplane and violating the law of gravity will kill us, breaking God's law is what condemns us. Jesus is like the parachute that can save us (He didn't come to condemn us; we were condemned already - John 3). I also tried to explain God's justice but I tried to cover too much ground in my five minutes. When I began to talk of their personal accountability for their sins, they were ready to leave. How I wish I'd had more time to talk because its tempting to think my words could save them. However, my hope for them must be based on the Lord, not on my own awkward efforts.
While out jogging I passed a Dunkin' Donuts and went in, sweats and all, to talk to a couple at a table. Dave seemed like a regular fellow but his friend Cherrie was heavily made up punk rock style. They were open to my questions. Cherrie told me she believes in a "life force" or karma. She is involved in the performing arts (???) and feels spiritual at times. She has explored many religions and has picked the ideas she likes the most. David said he hasn't believed in God since about age 7 when a fire-and-brimstone preacher told his parents they would go to hell. Cherrie responded to Dave's story with outrage that anyone would believe in the idea of hell let alone warn someone else that they are going there. I could tell Cherrie takes great pride in being tolerant so I appealed to this pride by telling them that I'm a Christian and asking if they'd like to hear a biblical perspective. They gave me five minutes so I pulled up a chair and began by telling them that I felt much the same way about hell until I learned that Jesus spent more time warning people about hell than He talked about heaven. Cherrie had heard that people go to hell for not believing in Jesus (not true) so I used the analogy of the law of gravity and a parachute to explain that just as jumping out of an airplane and violating the law of gravity will kill us, breaking God's law is what condemns us. Jesus is like the parachute that can save us (He didn't come to condemn us; we were condemned already - John 3). I also tried to explain God's justice but I tried to cover too much ground in my five minutes. When I began to talk of their personal accountability for their sins, they were ready to leave. How I wish I'd had more time to talk because its tempting to think my words could save them. However, my hope for them must be based on the Lord, not on my own awkward efforts.
12/1/09 Ernesto, about 40
At the park today I began to talk with Ernesto, but he said his English was limited so I gave him a Spanish "Es usted una buena persona? (Are you a good person?) tract . Instead of walking away he began to read it and, in his limited English, began to ask questions about it. I am learning Spanish, so for the first time I began to use my limited Spanish to better explain my answers. I am so grateful to Ernesto for his patience with me and for his interest in finding out the truth of the Gospel. Ernesto rarely attends church. His main question about religion is that so much harm has been done in God's name from a variety of religions. I told him that if people aren't behaving as Jesus taught then they are not really Jesus' followers even though they might claim to be. I emphasized that he must read the Bible for himself so that he can know Jesus' teachings and follow them closely. I shared the Law of Moses and salvation in Jesus. Ernesto said "thank you my friend" as we parted ways.
At the park today I began to talk with Ernesto, but he said his English was limited so I gave him a Spanish "Es usted una buena persona? (Are you a good person?) tract . Instead of walking away he began to read it and, in his limited English, began to ask questions about it. I am learning Spanish, so for the first time I began to use my limited Spanish to better explain my answers. I am so grateful to Ernesto for his patience with me and for his interest in finding out the truth of the Gospel. Ernesto rarely attends church. His main question about religion is that so much harm has been done in God's name from a variety of religions. I told him that if people aren't behaving as Jesus taught then they are not really Jesus' followers even though they might claim to be. I emphasized that he must read the Bible for himself so that he can know Jesus' teachings and follow them closely. I shared the Law of Moses and salvation in Jesus. Ernesto said "thank you my friend" as we parted ways.
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