1/31/10 Home Depot Customers 50's
At Home Depot on an errand with my son, Sammy, I had a few friendly but short conversations about eternity with some customers, ending with two older black gentlemen. We talked about the necessity of following God's Ten Commandments and what it means to be a "good " person. One man talked about our sins of greed and selfishness as a nation. I agreed and talked about how we want everyone else to be brought to justice but ourselves, and then asked them if they would want justice on judgment day. "Do you want to get what you deserve? How many of God's laws does it take to be a lawbreaker?" They saw my point, that they will want mercy, not justice. One thought he could earn God's forgiveness but I explained that "God won't take our good deeds as a bribe to overlook our guilt". They had just told me they would like me to explain how God has shown us mercy (in Christ), when the store manager asked me to leave, saying that someone had complained. It was probably an employee, because none of the customers I talked to seemed to have been bothered at all. I felt like I was within my rights to talk to other customers, but I decided to leave graciously. Why give my energy to fighting for the right to talk to other customers in one location when there are so many other places to go? After hundreds of conversations in the marketplace, this is the first time this has happened, and it really wasn't a big deal at all.
Gospel conversations from the streets and marketplace....
1/30/10 Michael, about 25
Today I went "fishing" with Pat, 72, a godly woman from church with a heart for evangelism. We went to a nearby grocery store. One young man we talked to was Michael, who quickly told us he didn't think he would go to heaven because he doesn't believe in heaven or God. "Is it possible that heaven exists?" I asked. Like so many of his generation, Michael did not want to be accused of having a closed mind so he agreed "Yes, its possible" His body language told me I didn't have much time; I needed to get to the point quickly. Instead of going through several of the Ten Commandments, I asked "You have a conscience, you know right from wrong, right?" "Yes" "Well, why don't you follow it?" "I don't know" "The Bible says we were all given the knowledge of good and evil. God's law is in our heart yet we fail to obey it and we will be held accountable for breaking it." Pat joined in "You know we aren't guaranteed tomorrow" and Michael had to agree. We talked for a few minutes, and he walked away with a thoughtful look on his face that made me really think he will read the info I gave him. Like so many conversations, this one illustrates the need to really listen and observe where people are at, responding to them individually. This only comes with a lot of practice. I've seen progress in myself but have much more to learn. We might have to start out with an evangelistic "script" that can seem shallow, but with practice we can really learn to respond appropriately to people right where they are at.
Today I went "fishing" with Pat, 72, a godly woman from church with a heart for evangelism. We went to a nearby grocery store. One young man we talked to was Michael, who quickly told us he didn't think he would go to heaven because he doesn't believe in heaven or God. "Is it possible that heaven exists?" I asked. Like so many of his generation, Michael did not want to be accused of having a closed mind so he agreed "Yes, its possible" His body language told me I didn't have much time; I needed to get to the point quickly. Instead of going through several of the Ten Commandments, I asked "You have a conscience, you know right from wrong, right?" "Yes" "Well, why don't you follow it?" "I don't know" "The Bible says we were all given the knowledge of good and evil. God's law is in our heart yet we fail to obey it and we will be held accountable for breaking it." Pat joined in "You know we aren't guaranteed tomorrow" and Michael had to agree. We talked for a few minutes, and he walked away with a thoughtful look on his face that made me really think he will read the info I gave him. Like so many conversations, this one illustrates the need to really listen and observe where people are at, responding to them individually. This only comes with a lot of practice. I've seen progress in myself but have much more to learn. We might have to start out with an evangelistic "script" that can seem shallow, but with practice we can really learn to respond appropriately to people right where they are at.
1/29/10 Tom, 39
While out jogging I stopped by Dunkin' Donuts, not for a donut but for a conversation. I asked Tom, who looked vaguely familiar, if he had a few minutes to answer some questions. As it turned out I had talked to him about half a year ago. I'd like to say it changed his life, but he really couldn't remember what I talked about. I did, however, leave a positive impression and he really brightened up when he figured out where he knew me from. Tom believes in God, but that's about the extent of it. He works hard, about 60 hours a week, at minimum wage. He lives alone and is trying to keep up with the bills. As I tried to explain law and grace I realized Tom has a hard time with comprehension and short term memory. I stressed not only his need for a right relationship with God, but his need for God's church. Outside of a dramatic miracle improving Tom's intellectual abilities, it seems to me his best hope for understanding the things of God is regular involvement with a church fellowship. I don't often "push" church on people, wanting to emphasize their need for salvation in Christ, but lately I'm realizing that just as it would be wrong not to tell people about salvation in Christ, it would also be wrong not tell them about the joy of being part of Christian fellowship. If I believe in my local church, why wouldn't I want to invite people to it? Again this must be done with discretion to keep people from thinking I am just trying to recruit church members, but I can definitely give follow up info about my church, and follow up a friendly invitation with some intentional prayer.
While out jogging I stopped by Dunkin' Donuts, not for a donut but for a conversation. I asked Tom, who looked vaguely familiar, if he had a few minutes to answer some questions. As it turned out I had talked to him about half a year ago. I'd like to say it changed his life, but he really couldn't remember what I talked about. I did, however, leave a positive impression and he really brightened up when he figured out where he knew me from. Tom believes in God, but that's about the extent of it. He works hard, about 60 hours a week, at minimum wage. He lives alone and is trying to keep up with the bills. As I tried to explain law and grace I realized Tom has a hard time with comprehension and short term memory. I stressed not only his need for a right relationship with God, but his need for God's church. Outside of a dramatic miracle improving Tom's intellectual abilities, it seems to me his best hope for understanding the things of God is regular involvement with a church fellowship. I don't often "push" church on people, wanting to emphasize their need for salvation in Christ, but lately I'm realizing that just as it would be wrong not to tell people about salvation in Christ, it would also be wrong not tell them about the joy of being part of Christian fellowship. If I believe in my local church, why wouldn't I want to invite people to it? Again this must be done with discretion to keep people from thinking I am just trying to recruit church members, but I can definitely give follow up info about my church, and follow up a friendly invitation with some intentional prayer.
1/28/10 Antoinette, about 20
I went 45 minutes early to pick up my kids from their drivers ed. class and stopped by a Starbucks where I met Antoinette, a communications student at IIT. She grew up in a Baptist family but at age 14 her parents became disillusioned with church and they all stopped attending. Now she wavers between belief and unbelief in God's existence. I asked "If there is a heaven and hell, where would you go?" "Hell" "Why" "Because I don't believe in God" I asked her "Does that seem fair, that God would send people to hell just because they doubt Him?" "No, it doesn't" she said. I agreed - "It WOULD be hard to believe in a God like that. But other than your doubts about God, do you think you are basically a good person?" "Oh yes, I'm not selfish or hurtful. I try to do what's right". She knows she isn't perfect but believes she is "good enough" for heaven. We had a good conversation, and now, with exposure to the Law, she knows better.
This conversation was a reminder to me of the importance of a right understanding of sin as the primary cause of our condemnation. Self-righteous unbelievers criticize Christians for being "narrow minded" about salvation. The assumption is that all people are good, and that hell is simply for unbelief, rather than as a place of punishment for sinners and lawbreakers in rebellion against God. No wonder God seems unreasonable. Verses like John 3:18 can be confusing: "Whoever believes in him is not condemned, but whoever does not believe stands condemned already because he has not believed in the name of God's one and only Son" But taken in context, we understand that unbelief only causes us to miss the way of salvation, it didn't cause our condemnation in the first place. (John 3:36) Sin did. Our rebellion against God did. We deserve God's wrath because we are sinners, not because God unfairly punishes people with honest doubts. We MUST include accountability for sin and warnings of hell in our gospel messages and witnessing.
I went 45 minutes early to pick up my kids from their drivers ed. class and stopped by a Starbucks where I met Antoinette, a communications student at IIT. She grew up in a Baptist family but at age 14 her parents became disillusioned with church and they all stopped attending. Now she wavers between belief and unbelief in God's existence. I asked "If there is a heaven and hell, where would you go?" "Hell" "Why" "Because I don't believe in God" I asked her "Does that seem fair, that God would send people to hell just because they doubt Him?" "No, it doesn't" she said. I agreed - "It WOULD be hard to believe in a God like that. But other than your doubts about God, do you think you are basically a good person?" "Oh yes, I'm not selfish or hurtful. I try to do what's right". She knows she isn't perfect but believes she is "good enough" for heaven. We had a good conversation, and now, with exposure to the Law, she knows better.
This conversation was a reminder to me of the importance of a right understanding of sin as the primary cause of our condemnation. Self-righteous unbelievers criticize Christians for being "narrow minded" about salvation. The assumption is that all people are good, and that hell is simply for unbelief, rather than as a place of punishment for sinners and lawbreakers in rebellion against God. No wonder God seems unreasonable. Verses like John 3:18 can be confusing: "Whoever believes in him is not condemned, but whoever does not believe stands condemned already because he has not believed in the name of God's one and only Son" But taken in context, we understand that unbelief only causes us to miss the way of salvation, it didn't cause our condemnation in the first place. (John 3:36) Sin did. Our rebellion against God did. We deserve God's wrath because we are sinners, not because God unfairly punishes people with honest doubts. We MUST include accountability for sin and warnings of hell in our gospel messages and witnessing.
1/27/10 Tom, about 26
I met with Jonathan, a young man and relatively new Christian from church I am mentoring. However, before we met at a cafe for Bible study we went to be "fishers of men" at a nearby grocery store. We talked with Tom, who definitely believed that he is a good person deserving of heaven. He cited his involvement with Habitat For Humanity, Toys for Tots, and his generous giving to various charities. As an adult he no longer goes to church, but doesn't look down on those who do, though he felt that all the time, money and effort that goes into church activities might be better spent helping the community. I reminded him that the Bible teaches that God will hold us accountable on judgment day, and asked how he thought he would do. He quickly saw my point when I helped him judge himself by the Ten Commandments, and he turned to go saying "I'll have to give that some thought, but i need to finish my grocery shopping. But I have just one question for you.". 20 minutes later, he was still asking questions - good, thought provoking questions not for the purpose of discrediting our Christian faith, but to better understand it. He asked questions about God's justice, the purpose of free will, and the lavish spending by churches on their buildings. Tom learned a lot from our conversation, and Jonathan and I met for our Bible study time with renewed purpose and direction, and prayer for Tom.
I met with Jonathan, a young man and relatively new Christian from church I am mentoring. However, before we met at a cafe for Bible study we went to be "fishers of men" at a nearby grocery store. We talked with Tom, who definitely believed that he is a good person deserving of heaven. He cited his involvement with Habitat For Humanity, Toys for Tots, and his generous giving to various charities. As an adult he no longer goes to church, but doesn't look down on those who do, though he felt that all the time, money and effort that goes into church activities might be better spent helping the community. I reminded him that the Bible teaches that God will hold us accountable on judgment day, and asked how he thought he would do. He quickly saw my point when I helped him judge himself by the Ten Commandments, and he turned to go saying "I'll have to give that some thought, but i need to finish my grocery shopping. But I have just one question for you.". 20 minutes later, he was still asking questions - good, thought provoking questions not for the purpose of discrediting our Christian faith, but to better understand it. He asked questions about God's justice, the purpose of free will, and the lavish spending by churches on their buildings. Tom learned a lot from our conversation, and Jonathan and I met for our Bible study time with renewed purpose and direction, and prayer for Tom.
1/26/10 Gordon, about 45 Eric, Dwayne, about 21
The Roman Road needs speed limits! At a downtown grocery store cafe, I spoke to 3 men, all affected by the "Roman Road", a series of Bible passages from the book of Romans chosen to biblically present the Gospel when witnessing. Gordon, a Serbian immigrant, is a Christian, formerly homeless, and now involved in an evangelism training program at a nearby homeless shelter. I asked how he would witness to me were I an unbeliever, and he quickly recited the verses of the Roman Road. I felt like they wouldn't mean much to people without being explained and applied personally, especially the first verse, Romans 3:23 - "For all have sinned and fall short of the glory of God" The next two guys I talked to, Eric and Dwayne, are also staying at the shelter, and have clearly heard these verses preached before every meal the past few weeks. They claimed that they just "tune it out", while they wait for their meal. I wonder if they are able to do this because, while they can easily believe that all have sinned, they haven't been confronted personally with their own sin. Dwayne told me he had never even heard of the Ten Commandments, and Eric could only name one. Well today they heard all about at least five of them as I applied them personally, and could clearly see how God will find them guilty on judgment day of breaking them. Their idea that they are good people who deserve heaven has been shaken, and now that they have clearly heard the bad news of sin and death I hope they will no longer be able to "tune out" the good news of Jesus.
The Roman Road needs speed limits! At a downtown grocery store cafe, I spoke to 3 men, all affected by the "Roman Road", a series of Bible passages from the book of Romans chosen to biblically present the Gospel when witnessing. Gordon, a Serbian immigrant, is a Christian, formerly homeless, and now involved in an evangelism training program at a nearby homeless shelter. I asked how he would witness to me were I an unbeliever, and he quickly recited the verses of the Roman Road. I felt like they wouldn't mean much to people without being explained and applied personally, especially the first verse, Romans 3:23 - "For all have sinned and fall short of the glory of God" The next two guys I talked to, Eric and Dwayne, are also staying at the shelter, and have clearly heard these verses preached before every meal the past few weeks. They claimed that they just "tune it out", while they wait for their meal. I wonder if they are able to do this because, while they can easily believe that all have sinned, they haven't been confronted personally with their own sin. Dwayne told me he had never even heard of the Ten Commandments, and Eric could only name one. Well today they heard all about at least five of them as I applied them personally, and could clearly see how God will find them guilty on judgment day of breaking them. Their idea that they are good people who deserve heaven has been shaken, and now that they have clearly heard the bad news of sin and death I hope they will no longer be able to "tune out" the good news of Jesus.
1/25/10 Danvir, Debjit, both 22
Two graduate students sat at a table in IIT's student center, and agreed to answer my questions. I let them know I'm from a nearby church, and I asked many questions about their religious beliefs (Hindu) and about their lives at home in India. (They both came to the U.S. and IIT this year.) An interesting question I asked was "How will you raise your children?" They were both quick to say they would give their children complete choice of whatever religion seemed right to them. At times they said they were religious, other times they said they didn't have much to do with religion anymore. They say they believe in just one God (Krishna) who takes many different forms. I asked if they had ever studied world religions. They had not. They asked me what I thought of Muslims. I tried to keep things positive and told them I believe the majority of Muslims are respectful and peaceful. Then I described some differences in beliefs about Jesus between Christians and Muslims which led to their questions "What do Christians believe?" Ten minutes of friendly questions about their beliefs and culture led to a twenty minute opportunity to share the Christian faith. They had never heard of the Ten Commandments and had good questions about the Holy Trinity and the purpose of Jesus' death on the cross. Debjit asked "Can I become a Christian and still remain a Hindu? I wasn't quite sure how to answer that, because Hinduism is more than a set of religious beliefs, it's a whole culture. I told them we share common moral/ethical beliefs. They both expressed an interest in coming to visit my church; I hope they do.
Two graduate students sat at a table in IIT's student center, and agreed to answer my questions. I let them know I'm from a nearby church, and I asked many questions about their religious beliefs (Hindu) and about their lives at home in India. (They both came to the U.S. and IIT this year.) An interesting question I asked was "How will you raise your children?" They were both quick to say they would give their children complete choice of whatever religion seemed right to them. At times they said they were religious, other times they said they didn't have much to do with religion anymore. They say they believe in just one God (Krishna) who takes many different forms. I asked if they had ever studied world religions. They had not. They asked me what I thought of Muslims. I tried to keep things positive and told them I believe the majority of Muslims are respectful and peaceful. Then I described some differences in beliefs about Jesus between Christians and Muslims which led to their questions "What do Christians believe?" Ten minutes of friendly questions about their beliefs and culture led to a twenty minute opportunity to share the Christian faith. They had never heard of the Ten Commandments and had good questions about the Holy Trinity and the purpose of Jesus' death on the cross. Debjit asked "Can I become a Christian and still remain a Hindu? I wasn't quite sure how to answer that, because Hinduism is more than a set of religious beliefs, it's a whole culture. I told them we share common moral/ethical beliefs. They both expressed an interest in coming to visit my church; I hope they do.
1/24/10 Dennis, about 22
It can seem like people are too busy at grocery and department stores (not often true), but a great place to find people who have some extra time is in the magazine, book, and/or music departments. Today I went with Luke (teaching elder) to the grocery store and we found Dennis at the magazine racks. A lifelong Catholic, Dennis trusts in his positive attitude and actions, believing he has a good chance at heaven come judgment day, but "you can never know for sure". Dennis agreed that by God's standard he is a liar, thief, blasphemer, and a murderer and adulterer at heart; that God is just and demands a penalty for sin; that God is a good judge who won't accept any kind of good behavior as a bribe to ignore justice; and he agreed that one needs to repent and trust Jesus. Time to lead him in a "sinner's prayer" for salvation, right? I didn't think so. I saw intellectual ascent, but no heartfelt conviction. Better to let the Holy Spirit have time to work on Dennis' heart, than to lead him in a superficial prayer and give him a false assurance of salvation. Can we ever assure people of salvation? Only God knows what's in the heart, but we can point people to God's word, which tells us to "examine yourselves to see if you are in the faith" (2 Cor. 13:5) and to "work out your salvation with fear and trembling" (Phil.2:11-13), - something the unbeliever isn't likely to do after the false assurance of salvation by a sincere but mislead Christian.
It can seem like people are too busy at grocery and department stores (not often true), but a great place to find people who have some extra time is in the magazine, book, and/or music departments. Today I went with Luke (teaching elder) to the grocery store and we found Dennis at the magazine racks. A lifelong Catholic, Dennis trusts in his positive attitude and actions, believing he has a good chance at heaven come judgment day, but "you can never know for sure". Dennis agreed that by God's standard he is a liar, thief, blasphemer, and a murderer and adulterer at heart; that God is just and demands a penalty for sin; that God is a good judge who won't accept any kind of good behavior as a bribe to ignore justice; and he agreed that one needs to repent and trust Jesus. Time to lead him in a "sinner's prayer" for salvation, right? I didn't think so. I saw intellectual ascent, but no heartfelt conviction. Better to let the Holy Spirit have time to work on Dennis' heart, than to lead him in a superficial prayer and give him a false assurance of salvation. Can we ever assure people of salvation? Only God knows what's in the heart, but we can point people to God's word, which tells us to "examine yourselves to see if you are in the faith" (2 Cor. 13:5) and to "work out your salvation with fear and trembling" (Phil.2:11-13), - something the unbeliever isn't likely to do after the false assurance of salvation by a sincere but mislead Christian.
1/23/10 Krystal, about 22
At Borders bookstore, a man in the cafe reading a book turned me down when I asked if he had a few minutes for some questions, but Krystal, an attractive and friendly college student doing schoolwork, did agree and brightened up when she found out it would be about her beliefs. Krystal grew up in an "apostolic" church, with an emphasis on "catching the Holy Ghost". I recently read a book on witnessing by the great 19th century evangelist R.A.Torrey, with its final chapter's emphasis on the necessity of being "baptized in the Holy Spirit" as a prerequisite for being involved in evangelism, so I had many questions for Krystal about her experiences. At the age of 8, Krystal developed an intense desire to receive the Holy Ghost, and after a year of earnest prayer, going forward weekly in church, and intercessory prayer by others, she suddenly received this gift, evidenced by a sudden ability to speak in tongues while she prayed. She now speaks in tongues regularly and just spent 2 hours every night at the church for nightly prayer, in tongues, during a week-long revival. "Sometimes I understand what I'm praying, though it comes out in another language, and sometimes I don't" I asked if these tongues were interpreted, (as required in 1 Corinthians 14) and she said she knew of only a few times when it had. "Must a person receive the Holy Ghost to be saved?" "Yes" Can a person have the Holy Ghost and not be able to speak in tongues?" (I never have, though I am open to it) "No" "So what must I do to be saved?" I asked. "Pray and ask for the Holy Ghost, and ask God to remove any doubt and unbelief you have" R.A.Torrey, Paul the Apostle (1 Cor. 12) and I would disagree that tongues must accompany the gift of the Holy Spirit. I hope this over-emphasis on tongues does not cause the exclusion of the more important gifts. (1 Cor 14:19)
At Borders bookstore, a man in the cafe reading a book turned me down when I asked if he had a few minutes for some questions, but Krystal, an attractive and friendly college student doing schoolwork, did agree and brightened up when she found out it would be about her beliefs. Krystal grew up in an "apostolic" church, with an emphasis on "catching the Holy Ghost". I recently read a book on witnessing by the great 19th century evangelist R.A.Torrey, with its final chapter's emphasis on the necessity of being "baptized in the Holy Spirit" as a prerequisite for being involved in evangelism, so I had many questions for Krystal about her experiences. At the age of 8, Krystal developed an intense desire to receive the Holy Ghost, and after a year of earnest prayer, going forward weekly in church, and intercessory prayer by others, she suddenly received this gift, evidenced by a sudden ability to speak in tongues while she prayed. She now speaks in tongues regularly and just spent 2 hours every night at the church for nightly prayer, in tongues, during a week-long revival. "Sometimes I understand what I'm praying, though it comes out in another language, and sometimes I don't" I asked if these tongues were interpreted, (as required in 1 Corinthians 14) and she said she knew of only a few times when it had. "Must a person receive the Holy Ghost to be saved?" "Yes" Can a person have the Holy Ghost and not be able to speak in tongues?" (I never have, though I am open to it) "No" "So what must I do to be saved?" I asked. "Pray and ask for the Holy Ghost, and ask God to remove any doubt and unbelief you have" R.A.Torrey, Paul the Apostle (1 Cor. 12) and I would disagree that tongues must accompany the gift of the Holy Spirit. I hope this over-emphasis on tongues does not cause the exclusion of the more important gifts. (1 Cor 14:19)
1/22/10 Mario, 36 DeSheniqua, about 25
Anne (my wife) and I went "fishing" at the grocery store. I used million dollar tracts to try to start a conversation. Mario was an interesting and very bubbly African-American man that we talked to while his wife, DeSheniqua, listened, agreeing with the answers Mario gave. "Am I going to heaven? Oh I KNOW I'm going to heaven!" Mario described how he has been shot on two separate occasions and stabbed once, even lifting up his shirt right there in the store to show us the stab wounds under his arm. "People tell me I have nine lives, well I've used up three. But God is keeping me alive for a reason!" "How do you know you will go to heaven?" "Oh, I believe in God, ever since my 3 years in the penitentiary, and now I drive truck and I'm helping other guys get on the right path." "But we can't earn heaven by our good works..." "Oh no, you got to be sorry, really sorry, and ask God for forgiveness, and start living God's way" I asked if that would work in a human courtroom. Would justice be served if people were let go based on their degree of remorse, or the good things they had done to "pay" for their crime? God, the good judge, demands justice; otherwise we couldn't call Him "good". Mario had a hard time making the connection between God's love for justice and Jesus' atonement on the cross. At first his trust was in his own good works despite adversity, then he switched to the sincerity of his repentance. Finally, I reminded him of his sin by personalizing some of the commandments. Only then, and with some prompting, was he reminded of Jesus and the cross. "Oh yeah!" almost as an afterthought, "of course I believe in Jesus!"
Anne (my wife) and I went "fishing" at the grocery store. I used million dollar tracts to try to start a conversation. Mario was an interesting and very bubbly African-American man that we talked to while his wife, DeSheniqua, listened, agreeing with the answers Mario gave. "Am I going to heaven? Oh I KNOW I'm going to heaven!" Mario described how he has been shot on two separate occasions and stabbed once, even lifting up his shirt right there in the store to show us the stab wounds under his arm. "People tell me I have nine lives, well I've used up three. But God is keeping me alive for a reason!" "How do you know you will go to heaven?" "Oh, I believe in God, ever since my 3 years in the penitentiary, and now I drive truck and I'm helping other guys get on the right path." "But we can't earn heaven by our good works..." "Oh no, you got to be sorry, really sorry, and ask God for forgiveness, and start living God's way" I asked if that would work in a human courtroom. Would justice be served if people were let go based on their degree of remorse, or the good things they had done to "pay" for their crime? God, the good judge, demands justice; otherwise we couldn't call Him "good". Mario had a hard time making the connection between God's love for justice and Jesus' atonement on the cross. At first his trust was in his own good works despite adversity, then he switched to the sincerity of his repentance. Finally, I reminded him of his sin by personalizing some of the commandments. Only then, and with some prompting, was he reminded of Jesus and the cross. "Oh yeah!" almost as an afterthought, "of course I believe in Jesus!"
/21/10 Joe, about 30, Deborah, about 50
On my way home after work I picked up Marty (church elder) at his office and we went to a Dominick's grocery store nearby to be intentional about witnessing. Marty initiated a good conversation with Joe, who grew up Catholic and now doubts God after the loss of both his parents at a young age. Although Joe asked some hard questions, some seeds of faith were definitely planted. At the same time Marty sees a need for further preparation, training and practice in order to be better able to "reason...in the marketplace...with those who happen to be there" (Acts 17:17) I met an older African American woman named Deborah who seems to have a solid faith in Christ, but isn't involved in a local church fellowship. I challenged her on this: "Do you know that when you don't go to church, you are depriving people of being blessed? Church isn't there just for us to get something from it, but to give something to it, to be an encouragement for the other believers there." This seemed to really get through to Deborah: "Thank you so much, I never thought about it that way before. I really needed to hear that!" Marty knew of a good church meeting within walking distance of her house, and she was excited to hear about it. She thanked us both profusely for stopping to talk to her.
On my way home after work I picked up Marty (church elder) at his office and we went to a Dominick's grocery store nearby to be intentional about witnessing. Marty initiated a good conversation with Joe, who grew up Catholic and now doubts God after the loss of both his parents at a young age. Although Joe asked some hard questions, some seeds of faith were definitely planted. At the same time Marty sees a need for further preparation, training and practice in order to be better able to "reason...in the marketplace...with those who happen to be there" (Acts 17:17) I met an older African American woman named Deborah who seems to have a solid faith in Christ, but isn't involved in a local church fellowship. I challenged her on this: "Do you know that when you don't go to church, you are depriving people of being blessed? Church isn't there just for us to get something from it, but to give something to it, to be an encouragement for the other believers there." This seemed to really get through to Deborah: "Thank you so much, I never thought about it that way before. I really needed to hear that!" Marty knew of a good church meeting within walking distance of her house, and she was excited to hear about it. She thanked us both profusely for stopping to talk to her.
/20/09 Ron, about 25
Today I met with Tony, from church, and we went to the grocery store on a fishing trip. Jesus said he would make us "fishers of men" and so we went. Today was unusual because I talked to about 10 people before being able to engage in a longer conversation. Usually, one of the first few people are willing to talk further. I use the million dollar bill tracts as conversation starters, and after giving one out to a fellow shopper I would say something like "This makes a great collectors item, and it also has a great question on the back - 'Will you go to heaven?' - with a good person test. Would you say you are a good person?" Most people say they are and I would often add "Well, I failed it myself. Its harder than you think but maybe you'll do better than me!" This brings a laugh and usually I can go on to a good conversation, but today most people seemed to be in a hurry to get on with their shopping. The good thing is they have a gospel message in their hands and hopefully the curiosity to check it out. We finally talked to Ron, who responded well to the biblical truths of law and grace, and has some business with God to attend to.
Today I met with Tony, from church, and we went to the grocery store on a fishing trip. Jesus said he would make us "fishers of men" and so we went. Today was unusual because I talked to about 10 people before being able to engage in a longer conversation. Usually, one of the first few people are willing to talk further. I use the million dollar bill tracts as conversation starters, and after giving one out to a fellow shopper I would say something like "This makes a great collectors item, and it also has a great question on the back - 'Will you go to heaven?' - with a good person test. Would you say you are a good person?" Most people say they are and I would often add "Well, I failed it myself. Its harder than you think but maybe you'll do better than me!" This brings a laugh and usually I can go on to a good conversation, but today most people seemed to be in a hurry to get on with their shopping. The good thing is they have a gospel message in their hands and hopefully the curiosity to check it out. We finally talked to Ron, who responded well to the biblical truths of law and grace, and has some business with God to attend to.
1/19/10 Tom, 30
Several weeks of cold weather have kept me witnessing indoors, so today's warm and sunny afternoon was a welcome change. At the park I asked an Asian man on the sidewalk if he had a few minutes to answer some questions. "I'm from a church nearby, and really want to know about the spiritual beliefs of people in the neighborhoods around us". He agreed, I introduced myself, and he told me his adopted westernized name, Tom. I asked about his background. Tom moved to Chicago from mainland China about five years ago, and now owns a carpet business. He grew up under communism with its atheistic ideology. Confucianism forms his moral beliefs and he was aware of the Buddhist beliefs of people around him. Christianity, in his experience, was a western religion that seemed relatively unimportant. I was curious about atheistic morality since there is no God ultimately to be held accountable to. Tom said that Asian people don't want to "lose face". While western people may fear punishment in the next life, Asian people fear the punishment of peers and society in this life. In general, Tom said, western people are much more moral in their daily lives. After a long discussion in which I learned a lot, Tom was glad to hear more about Christianity. Afterward, he described it as "the perfect religion, it all makes sense". He said he is gradually learning more about it and admires Christian beliefs but he "can't change his Asian way of thinking overnight". I gave him some more info that respects other religions, but points out that only biblical Christianity solves the sin problem that separates us from God. I am confident Tom will read it and I believe God will continue to work in his life.
Several weeks of cold weather have kept me witnessing indoors, so today's warm and sunny afternoon was a welcome change. At the park I asked an Asian man on the sidewalk if he had a few minutes to answer some questions. "I'm from a church nearby, and really want to know about the spiritual beliefs of people in the neighborhoods around us". He agreed, I introduced myself, and he told me his adopted westernized name, Tom. I asked about his background. Tom moved to Chicago from mainland China about five years ago, and now owns a carpet business. He grew up under communism with its atheistic ideology. Confucianism forms his moral beliefs and he was aware of the Buddhist beliefs of people around him. Christianity, in his experience, was a western religion that seemed relatively unimportant. I was curious about atheistic morality since there is no God ultimately to be held accountable to. Tom said that Asian people don't want to "lose face". While western people may fear punishment in the next life, Asian people fear the punishment of peers and society in this life. In general, Tom said, western people are much more moral in their daily lives. After a long discussion in which I learned a lot, Tom was glad to hear more about Christianity. Afterward, he described it as "the perfect religion, it all makes sense". He said he is gradually learning more about it and admires Christian beliefs but he "can't change his Asian way of thinking overnight". I gave him some more info that respects other religions, but points out that only biblical Christianity solves the sin problem that separates us from God. I am confident Tom will read it and I believe God will continue to work in his life.
1/18/10 Arturo, 24
At a grocery store I met Arturo, dressed hip hop/thug style, and as I found out later, grocery shopping with his mother. He laughed when I gave him a million dollar tract, and was very positive when I asked questions about his beliefs in God and eternal life. Does he believe he will go to heaven? "I'll take my chances." As a child Arturo attended a Baptist church in Indiana which has a busing ministry bringing hundreds of Chicago neighborhood kids to church every week. He seemed to have a good understanding of the Gospel and believes it to be true, yet does not believe himself to be "saved". "Why not?" "I'm not ready to make that decision" he said, adding "This world is just too unpredictable" He seemed to think that he is too young to make such a big decision and basically wants to enjoy the pleasures of sin for now, putting off repentance and faith until he is older. I reminded him that that tomorrow is not promised, now is the day of salvation, and that his heart will only grow harder and more calloused to the truth the longer he waits. Arturo took this advice well and seemed sincere in thanking me for stopping to talk to him.
Hebrews 3:12-14 See to it, brothers, that none of you has a sinful, unbelieving heart that turns away from the living God. But encourage one another daily, as long as it is called Today, so that none of you may be hardened by sin's deceitfulness. We have come to share in Christ if we hold firmly till the end the confidence we had at first.
At a grocery store I met Arturo, dressed hip hop/thug style, and as I found out later, grocery shopping with his mother. He laughed when I gave him a million dollar tract, and was very positive when I asked questions about his beliefs in God and eternal life. Does he believe he will go to heaven? "I'll take my chances." As a child Arturo attended a Baptist church in Indiana which has a busing ministry bringing hundreds of Chicago neighborhood kids to church every week. He seemed to have a good understanding of the Gospel and believes it to be true, yet does not believe himself to be "saved". "Why not?" "I'm not ready to make that decision" he said, adding "This world is just too unpredictable" He seemed to think that he is too young to make such a big decision and basically wants to enjoy the pleasures of sin for now, putting off repentance and faith until he is older. I reminded him that that tomorrow is not promised, now is the day of salvation, and that his heart will only grow harder and more calloused to the truth the longer he waits. Arturo took this advice well and seemed sincere in thanking me for stopping to talk to him.
Hebrews 3:12-14 See to it, brothers, that none of you has a sinful, unbelieving heart that turns away from the living God. But encourage one another daily, as long as it is called Today, so that none of you may be hardened by sin's deceitfulness. We have come to share in Christ if we hold firmly till the end the confidence we had at first.
1/17/10 Rolando, about 30
At a Home Depot on an errand today I encouraged a few customers to take the "good person test" on the back of million dollar tracts. A big,burly guy came down the isle, intent on finding whatever merchandise he needed. He took the tract and I explained what it was about, that it had the million dollar question on the back - "Will you go to heaven?" He said "No, not me. I think I'll go to hell." This sort of humility is rare, and I told this to Rolando, asking why he felt this way. "If you only knew what I've done" . I could sense his desperation as I saw his eyes well up with tears. I said "It can't be that bad, I want you to know there is hope for anyone" "Not for me. I think I just need to put a quick end to all this" I didn't know what to say. I knew he was talking about suicide, yet there he was at the Home Depot looking for a specialized kind of light bulb. I could tell he was genuinely convicted about something, yet couldn't get him to talk about it. Finally, I gave him my contact information, asking him to call me if he needed someone to talk to. Please pray for Rolando, he needs the hope that can only be found in Christ. "Therefore, there is now no condemnation for those who are in Christ Jesus" Romans 8
At a Home Depot on an errand today I encouraged a few customers to take the "good person test" on the back of million dollar tracts. A big,burly guy came down the isle, intent on finding whatever merchandise he needed. He took the tract and I explained what it was about, that it had the million dollar question on the back - "Will you go to heaven?" He said "No, not me. I think I'll go to hell." This sort of humility is rare, and I told this to Rolando, asking why he felt this way. "If you only knew what I've done" . I could sense his desperation as I saw his eyes well up with tears. I said "It can't be that bad, I want you to know there is hope for anyone" "Not for me. I think I just need to put a quick end to all this" I didn't know what to say. I knew he was talking about suicide, yet there he was at the Home Depot looking for a specialized kind of light bulb. I could tell he was genuinely convicted about something, yet couldn't get him to talk about it. Finally, I gave him my contact information, asking him to call me if he needed someone to talk to. Please pray for Rolando, he needs the hope that can only be found in Christ. "Therefore, there is now no condemnation for those who are in Christ Jesus" Romans 8
1/16/10 Latanya, 26
"I'm a good person, for the most part" was Latanya's answer there in Food-For-Less explaining why she thinks she will go to heaven, yet she doesn't think she is good enough to go to church. She is a single mom with 5 young children, and said she would feel like a hypocrite there. Latanya had no church involvement growing up, and has been to church only a few times as an adult. She prays daily but clearly hadn't thought much about God's judgment. I let her know that God doesn't compare us to other people; his standard is the Ten Commandments. I asked her how well she has kept individual commandments and as I did she moved from confident self assurance to excuse making to clear conviction, her eyes filling with tears. She agreed that she is indeed a liar, thief, adulterer and a murderer at heart, and deserves God's wrath and punishment. The law had done its work in preparing her heart, and I explained the way of salvation through repentance and faith in Jesus, encouraging her to put her trust in him this very day. I could see that she loves her children dearly, so I also talked about the benefits and blessings of having a church home and family for them to grow up in, something her own mother hadn't given her. I prayed for her, that God would bless her and her five children.
"I'm a good person, for the most part" was Latanya's answer there in Food-For-Less explaining why she thinks she will go to heaven, yet she doesn't think she is good enough to go to church. She is a single mom with 5 young children, and said she would feel like a hypocrite there. Latanya had no church involvement growing up, and has been to church only a few times as an adult. She prays daily but clearly hadn't thought much about God's judgment. I let her know that God doesn't compare us to other people; his standard is the Ten Commandments. I asked her how well she has kept individual commandments and as I did she moved from confident self assurance to excuse making to clear conviction, her eyes filling with tears. She agreed that she is indeed a liar, thief, adulterer and a murderer at heart, and deserves God's wrath and punishment. The law had done its work in preparing her heart, and I explained the way of salvation through repentance and faith in Jesus, encouraging her to put her trust in him this very day. I could see that she loves her children dearly, so I also talked about the benefits and blessings of having a church home and family for them to grow up in, something her own mother hadn't given her. I prayed for her, that God would bless her and her five children.
01/15/10 A.J. about 30
On my way home from work today I stopped at a Burger King and gave a smile and million dollar tract to everyone seated at the tables there. I ended up at the table of A.J., a beer truck driver, and we talked for quite a while. I think giving multiple tracts out and then staying to talk with at least one person helps the rest to take the tracts seriously. . Many people won't look at a tract once they realize it is religious, so I'm hoping this personal touch will help them to be curious enough to read it. A.J. grew up in a Pentecostal church and still attends regularly, yet said he doesn't know about life after death and tries not to think about it. He is upset about the state of this world, such as the earthquake crisis in Haiti, and wonders how God can allow these things to happen. I told him I wonder that myself, and allowed him to vent for a while about various world disasters, the failures of politicians, and conspiracy theories. It was hard to keep from getting sucked into his negativity, but he had a sort of "God owes me" attitude. It wasn't until I used the law to expose his sin and the wrath that God really owes him that A.J. was ready to listen. He gradually warmed up to the gospel, which I assume he had heard countless times in church but didn't seem to comprehend. One point I made that seemed to get through is that maybe all the news of disasters around the world, in our city and even the increase of gray hairs on our head serve as fair warning that our time is limited; in His mercy God is delaying his judgment but won't withhold his wrath forever.(2 Peter 3:8-10)
On my way home from work today I stopped at a Burger King and gave a smile and million dollar tract to everyone seated at the tables there. I ended up at the table of A.J., a beer truck driver, and we talked for quite a while. I think giving multiple tracts out and then staying to talk with at least one person helps the rest to take the tracts seriously. . Many people won't look at a tract once they realize it is religious, so I'm hoping this personal touch will help them to be curious enough to read it. A.J. grew up in a Pentecostal church and still attends regularly, yet said he doesn't know about life after death and tries not to think about it. He is upset about the state of this world, such as the earthquake crisis in Haiti, and wonders how God can allow these things to happen. I told him I wonder that myself, and allowed him to vent for a while about various world disasters, the failures of politicians, and conspiracy theories. It was hard to keep from getting sucked into his negativity, but he had a sort of "God owes me" attitude. It wasn't until I used the law to expose his sin and the wrath that God really owes him that A.J. was ready to listen. He gradually warmed up to the gospel, which I assume he had heard countless times in church but didn't seem to comprehend. One point I made that seemed to get through is that maybe all the news of disasters around the world, in our city and even the increase of gray hairs on our head serve as fair warning that our time is limited; in His mercy God is delaying his judgment but won't withhold his wrath forever.(2 Peter 3:8-10)
1/14/09 Chris, about 35
Marty and I paid a visit to Home Depot, where we found a man named Chris deep in thought, looking at the bottom shelf in the plumbing isle. I gave him a million dollar tract and began asking him some of the questions on the back, hoping to start a conversation. He didn't respond for an awkward length of time, but suddenly put everything down and stood up to give me his full attention. He is a Polish immigrant and a Catholic, at first believing himself to be "good enough" for heaven. However, when his sin was made more obvious with exposure to some of the Ten Commandments he grasped the only hope he had left - the mercy assured to him by his priest during confession. I asked if that would work in a human courtroom - would a judge ignore justice and let a criminal go free just because he confesses his guilt? Chris grew silent at this and as I explained that God is also a judge who will not ignore justice. About this time Chris' business partner or coworker showed up, insisting that they get going, so my message was cut short. Afterward, I wondered why Chris grew silent toward the end of the conversation. Was there more of a language barrier than I realized? Was he being politely quiet, hoping I would finish with what I had to say? Was he totally confused? The doubter in me would say one of these things but Marty thought Chris seemed to have a look of conviction on his face. Maybe the law actually worked like Romans 3:17 says it will: "...that every mouth may be silenced and the whole world held accountable to God."
Marty and I paid a visit to Home Depot, where we found a man named Chris deep in thought, looking at the bottom shelf in the plumbing isle. I gave him a million dollar tract and began asking him some of the questions on the back, hoping to start a conversation. He didn't respond for an awkward length of time, but suddenly put everything down and stood up to give me his full attention. He is a Polish immigrant and a Catholic, at first believing himself to be "good enough" for heaven. However, when his sin was made more obvious with exposure to some of the Ten Commandments he grasped the only hope he had left - the mercy assured to him by his priest during confession. I asked if that would work in a human courtroom - would a judge ignore justice and let a criminal go free just because he confesses his guilt? Chris grew silent at this and as I explained that God is also a judge who will not ignore justice. About this time Chris' business partner or coworker showed up, insisting that they get going, so my message was cut short. Afterward, I wondered why Chris grew silent toward the end of the conversation. Was there more of a language barrier than I realized? Was he being politely quiet, hoping I would finish with what I had to say? Was he totally confused? The doubter in me would say one of these things but Marty thought Chris seemed to have a look of conviction on his face. Maybe the law actually worked like Romans 3:17 says it will: "...that every mouth may be silenced and the whole world held accountable to God."
01/13/10 Michael, about 25
Does witnessing ever get easier? After a year of everyday witnessing I still get that same paralyzing fear that I had all the time at first, just not so often. Today it came back. I went to three different places and took half an hour before I finally worked up the nerve to talk to someone. I'm not sure why this still happens but the good thing is it happens far less often. I finally talked to Michael at a grocery store, who is an active member at large black Pentecostal church. I asked "How can you be sure of heaven?" "Well I spread His word and follow His teachings". I tried a different approach: "If I came to you and asked how I could know I am going to heaven, what would you tell me?" "Well I would say follow His teachings, go to church and catch the Holy Ghost." Unlike Douglas of a few days earlier, Michael had no problem when I clarified that we can't earn heaven, that Jesus died for sinners, and that we need to trust Him rather than our own efforts for salvation. Michael felt that my use of the Ten Commandments to help people see their need for Christ made things very clear, and was excited about using this approach himself. I gave him some of my million dollar tracts to help him start some conversations, and prayed for him, that he will share the gospel with boldness and clarity.
Does witnessing ever get easier? After a year of everyday witnessing I still get that same paralyzing fear that I had all the time at first, just not so often. Today it came back. I went to three different places and took half an hour before I finally worked up the nerve to talk to someone. I'm not sure why this still happens but the good thing is it happens far less often. I finally talked to Michael at a grocery store, who is an active member at large black Pentecostal church. I asked "How can you be sure of heaven?" "Well I spread His word and follow His teachings". I tried a different approach: "If I came to you and asked how I could know I am going to heaven, what would you tell me?" "Well I would say follow His teachings, go to church and catch the Holy Ghost." Unlike Douglas of a few days earlier, Michael had no problem when I clarified that we can't earn heaven, that Jesus died for sinners, and that we need to trust Him rather than our own efforts for salvation. Michael felt that my use of the Ten Commandments to help people see their need for Christ made things very clear, and was excited about using this approach himself. I gave him some of my million dollar tracts to help him start some conversations, and prayed for him, that he will share the gospel with boldness and clarity.
1/12/09 Parashar, about 30
Using a million dollar tract as a conversation starter, I met Parashar, an insurance salesman from India, in the isles at a Mejiers department store. He is Hindu but claims to believe in one supreme God - "the God of all religions" which surprised me because I thought Hindus believe in many gods. Parashar thinks the different aspects of God's character are represented by the numerous "gods" of Hinduism, much like the Holy Trinity of Christianity. He even said that some Hindus believe in Jesus as one of their gods. I found out later that Parashar has some Christian friends here in America and has gone to church with them a few times. I could tell that he has been trying to reconcile the differences between the two religions, and it seems like he is ending up with a watered-down version of each. He easily recognizes his own sin, but takes the attitude that one cannot know the future and "I'll take my chances with God on judgment day". I just tried to tell Parashar about a few things that his Christian friends might have negleccted to tell him - that while God loves people, He also loves justice and will not withhold His wrath and judgment of sin for long. Sin has a high price that must be paid, but God in his grace has offered His Son as a sacrifice on behalf of all who repent and believe. Parashar was very friendly and open to different ideas. I left him a booklet comparing the four major world religions and explaining how Christianity alone addresses our sin problem. I believe he is very interested and will read it. Pray for him.
Using a million dollar tract as a conversation starter, I met Parashar, an insurance salesman from India, in the isles at a Mejiers department store. He is Hindu but claims to believe in one supreme God - "the God of all religions" which surprised me because I thought Hindus believe in many gods. Parashar thinks the different aspects of God's character are represented by the numerous "gods" of Hinduism, much like the Holy Trinity of Christianity. He even said that some Hindus believe in Jesus as one of their gods. I found out later that Parashar has some Christian friends here in America and has gone to church with them a few times. I could tell that he has been trying to reconcile the differences between the two religions, and it seems like he is ending up with a watered-down version of each. He easily recognizes his own sin, but takes the attitude that one cannot know the future and "I'll take my chances with God on judgment day". I just tried to tell Parashar about a few things that his Christian friends might have negleccted to tell him - that while God loves people, He also loves justice and will not withhold His wrath and judgment of sin for long. Sin has a high price that must be paid, but God in his grace has offered His Son as a sacrifice on behalf of all who repent and believe. Parashar was very friendly and open to different ideas. I left him a booklet comparing the four major world religions and explaining how Christianity alone addresses our sin problem. I believe he is very interested and will read it. Pray for him.
01/11/10 Douglas, about 40
Don't let church affiliation fool you. Marty and I went to Dominicks grocery store and used a million dollar tract to start a conversation with Douglas, a black postman very similar in looks and mannerisms to the character played by Sinbad on "Jingle All the Way". I pointed out the gospel message on the back of the tract and asked if he had a religious affiliation. He attends a well known and respected black Baptist church in Chicago and I was tempted to just assume he is a fellow believer, but I am learning that all too many people hide behind their church attendance or affiliation as the basis for their salvation. He believes he will go to heaven and I asked him what he bases this belief on. Douglas seems to rely on everything but Jesus - church affiliation, following the Ten Commandments, good works, confession, having two brothers who are ministers, even association with Nation of Islam leader Lois Farrakhan, but when I began to speak of our need for salvation through faith in Jesus he almost seemed offended. Douglas is very critical of the hypocrisy of church attendees, yet didn't realize that as he talked in circles he displayed the same inconsistencies himself. I'm not sure if any seeds of truth will take root in Douglas, but Marty observed that many passersby there in the frozen food isle showed a mixture of curiosity and feigned disinterest. Maybe a few seeds were planted after all.
Note: I've added some practical tips on how to initate witnessing conversations with people in grocery stores and other places of business. Just scroll all the way down to the end of the FAQ's section...
Don't let church affiliation fool you. Marty and I went to Dominicks grocery store and used a million dollar tract to start a conversation with Douglas, a black postman very similar in looks and mannerisms to the character played by Sinbad on "Jingle All the Way". I pointed out the gospel message on the back of the tract and asked if he had a religious affiliation. He attends a well known and respected black Baptist church in Chicago and I was tempted to just assume he is a fellow believer, but I am learning that all too many people hide behind their church attendance or affiliation as the basis for their salvation. He believes he will go to heaven and I asked him what he bases this belief on. Douglas seems to rely on everything but Jesus - church affiliation, following the Ten Commandments, good works, confession, having two brothers who are ministers, even association with Nation of Islam leader Lois Farrakhan, but when I began to speak of our need for salvation through faith in Jesus he almost seemed offended. Douglas is very critical of the hypocrisy of church attendees, yet didn't realize that as he talked in circles he displayed the same inconsistencies himself. I'm not sure if any seeds of truth will take root in Douglas, but Marty observed that many passersby there in the frozen food isle showed a mixture of curiosity and feigned disinterest. Maybe a few seeds were planted after all.
Note: I've added some practical tips on how to initate witnessing conversations with people in grocery stores and other places of business. Just scroll all the way down to the end of the FAQ's section...
01/10/10 Sizhou about 22
Right before church started today a young Chinese man walked in inquiring about Christianity and I was asked to explain it to him. I had an up-front role in the service a little later so I knew my time was limited, yet I didn't want to miss this opportunity because I know first impressions are important and I probably wouldn't have a second chance after the service. So I began by learning about Sizhou. He just moved to America and grew up in a completely atheistic environment in China. He had no knowledge of any religion including Christianity and so had never heard of the Ten Commandments, never opened a Bible, and knew nothing of Jesus except he had seen the image of Jesus on a cross. Yet he believed in God or at least a spirit of some sort who created everything. I started with several of the Ten Commandments, and explained that even though Sizhou did not know them he and all people are still required to follow God's law that is written on our hearts - we all have a conscience and know right from wrong. Yet he has not obeyed it and will be held accountable before God on judgment day as a lawbreaker. God's justice calls for sin to be punished. He would be condemned to hell. What a great way to treat a new guest to church, right?!! Yet now Sizhou was ready to hear the good news of Jesus and I was privileged to explain it to him. All this in about 20 minutes. Sizhou thoroughly enjoyed the service, had some questions afterward, took some more info, and we plan on meeting again to talk more on Wednesday. A great benefit of regular witnessing is that it helps us clearly articulate the gospel whenever the need arises, and I truly believe my experiences have prepared me for such a time as this.
Right before church started today a young Chinese man walked in inquiring about Christianity and I was asked to explain it to him. I had an up-front role in the service a little later so I knew my time was limited, yet I didn't want to miss this opportunity because I know first impressions are important and I probably wouldn't have a second chance after the service. So I began by learning about Sizhou. He just moved to America and grew up in a completely atheistic environment in China. He had no knowledge of any religion including Christianity and so had never heard of the Ten Commandments, never opened a Bible, and knew nothing of Jesus except he had seen the image of Jesus on a cross. Yet he believed in God or at least a spirit of some sort who created everything. I started with several of the Ten Commandments, and explained that even though Sizhou did not know them he and all people are still required to follow God's law that is written on our hearts - we all have a conscience and know right from wrong. Yet he has not obeyed it and will be held accountable before God on judgment day as a lawbreaker. God's justice calls for sin to be punished. He would be condemned to hell. What a great way to treat a new guest to church, right?!! Yet now Sizhou was ready to hear the good news of Jesus and I was privileged to explain it to him. All this in about 20 minutes. Sizhou thoroughly enjoyed the service, had some questions afterward, took some more info, and we plan on meeting again to talk more on Wednesday. A great benefit of regular witnessing is that it helps us clearly articulate the gospel whenever the need arises, and I truly believe my experiences have prepared me for such a time as this.
1/09/10 Guillermo, about 35
Tonight I was blessed to have my son Sammy, 16, come with me to the grocery store to observe me in a witnessing conversation. I spoke to Guillermo who typically believes his personal goodness will save him but soon changed his mind when exposed to the Ten Commandments. He listened with interest to my explanation of how our trust in Jesus satisfies God's demands for justice However Guilermos' teenage daughter, who hovered impatiently while we talked, reminded him that people were waiting for them and they had to leave.
Today I received an e-mail asking how I begin conversations so I'll tell word for word how this one started. (I added more ideas on starting a conversation in the Q & A section - just scroll way down) While grocery shopping, I saw Guillermo shopping with his daughter: "Excuse me, did you get one of these? Its an Obama million" Guillermo took it hesitantly, then smiled. I told him "Its a fun collector's item, but it also has a great message on the back. See here? It asks if you will go to heaven Then it gives the good person test. Are you a good person? He answered "Oh, yes I am. I work hard and provide for my family, and I try to help people whenever I can..."
Tonight I was blessed to have my son Sammy, 16, come with me to the grocery store to observe me in a witnessing conversation. I spoke to Guillermo who typically believes his personal goodness will save him but soon changed his mind when exposed to the Ten Commandments. He listened with interest to my explanation of how our trust in Jesus satisfies God's demands for justice However Guilermos' teenage daughter, who hovered impatiently while we talked, reminded him that people were waiting for them and they had to leave.
Today I received an e-mail asking how I begin conversations so I'll tell word for word how this one started. (I added more ideas on starting a conversation in the Q & A section - just scroll way down) While grocery shopping, I saw Guillermo shopping with his daughter: "Excuse me, did you get one of these? Its an Obama million" Guillermo took it hesitantly, then smiled. I told him "Its a fun collector's item, but it also has a great message on the back. See here? It asks if you will go to heaven Then it gives the good person test. Are you a good person? He answered "Oh, yes I am. I work hard and provide for my family, and I try to help people whenever I can..."
1/08/10 Eka, about 30
Today for the first time my daughter Hannah, 16, accompanied me on an intentional witnessing outing to the grocery store. She observed as I talked to Eka, a professionally dressed Muslim woman, originally from Indonesia and now working here as an interior designer. We had a nice conversation about her experiences and beliefs as a Muslim, including a visit to the holy city of Mecca. I brought her through the "good person test" based on the Ten Commandments to help her personalize her sins and know that she will ultimately be held accountable for them. She agreed that God would indeed find her guilty of breaking his law, and to the concept that a just God would be offended if we expect Him to accept our good works as a sort of bribe to overlook the punishment we deserve. I asked if it would be okay to just explain basic Christian beliefs, which was okay with her, so I did. She said she always wondered what people mean when they say "Jesus died for our sins" Now she knows.
Note: During these cold winter months the only places I often think of for witnessing are grocery stores, coffee shops, fast food restaurants, laundromats, etc., - in other words, the "marketplace". I have some more thoughts on this below under "Thoughts and Ideas"
Today for the first time my daughter Hannah, 16, accompanied me on an intentional witnessing outing to the grocery store. She observed as I talked to Eka, a professionally dressed Muslim woman, originally from Indonesia and now working here as an interior designer. We had a nice conversation about her experiences and beliefs as a Muslim, including a visit to the holy city of Mecca. I brought her through the "good person test" based on the Ten Commandments to help her personalize her sins and know that she will ultimately be held accountable for them. She agreed that God would indeed find her guilty of breaking his law, and to the concept that a just God would be offended if we expect Him to accept our good works as a sort of bribe to overlook the punishment we deserve. I asked if it would be okay to just explain basic Christian beliefs, which was okay with her, so I did. She said she always wondered what people mean when they say "Jesus died for our sins" Now she knows.
Note: During these cold winter months the only places I often think of for witnessing are grocery stores, coffee shops, fast food restaurants, laundromats, etc., - in other words, the "marketplace". I have some more thoughts on this below under "Thoughts and Ideas"
01/07/10 Mario, 14
At Burger King I walked up to a table where a young man was reading (actually, doing his homework) and began a conversation before I realized how young he really was. Mario is the youngest person I've initiated this type of exchange with, but I think we both learned a lot from our conversation. Mario and his brothers and sisters have been attending a church in Indiana with a bus ministry that picks up kids in Chicago neighborhoods and brings them to their Indiana location for church on Sundays. He is no longer interested in going to church, but said he believes in God and knows he will go to heaven because he was "saved" at about age 8 while at the church. "Saved from what?" "From going to hell" "Who goes to hell?" "People who don't believe in God" I explained that hell is God's punishment for those who disobey God's commandments, and spent a lot of time explaining them in detail. I felt it important to help teach this young man some basic Judeo-Christian values which will help guide him in life while helping him understand the seriousness of his sin and his need for forgiveness. His idea of being "saved" was simply going forward after a sermon and having someone pray for him. He had no idea how this had saved him or what Jesus had to do with it. I told him that Jesus encourages a childlike faith but that it is best to understand what his faith is in, so I explained the way of salvation as clearly as I could. I believe Mario may be a good example of someone who has been "inoculated" against the Gospel. They are given a weak form of it based not on faith in Christ but faith in one's good works, sincerity of repentance, baptism, or, in Mario's case, a "salvation decision". From what I could tell he had decided to be "saved" without actual faith in Christ. He was then given a false assurance of salvation and ended up going on in life without giving God another thought - a result of churches who try to plant the seeds and reap the harvest without waiting for the growth that only God can bring.
At Burger King I walked up to a table where a young man was reading (actually, doing his homework) and began a conversation before I realized how young he really was. Mario is the youngest person I've initiated this type of exchange with, but I think we both learned a lot from our conversation. Mario and his brothers and sisters have been attending a church in Indiana with a bus ministry that picks up kids in Chicago neighborhoods and brings them to their Indiana location for church on Sundays. He is no longer interested in going to church, but said he believes in God and knows he will go to heaven because he was "saved" at about age 8 while at the church. "Saved from what?" "From going to hell" "Who goes to hell?" "People who don't believe in God" I explained that hell is God's punishment for those who disobey God's commandments, and spent a lot of time explaining them in detail. I felt it important to help teach this young man some basic Judeo-Christian values which will help guide him in life while helping him understand the seriousness of his sin and his need for forgiveness. His idea of being "saved" was simply going forward after a sermon and having someone pray for him. He had no idea how this had saved him or what Jesus had to do with it. I told him that Jesus encourages a childlike faith but that it is best to understand what his faith is in, so I explained the way of salvation as clearly as I could. I believe Mario may be a good example of someone who has been "inoculated" against the Gospel. They are given a weak form of it based not on faith in Christ but faith in one's good works, sincerity of repentance, baptism, or, in Mario's case, a "salvation decision". From what I could tell he had decided to be "saved" without actual faith in Christ. He was then given a false assurance of salvation and ended up going on in life without giving God another thought - a result of churches who try to plant the seeds and reap the harvest without waiting for the growth that only God can bring.
01/06/09 Raul, 32
I stopped at a Dunkin Donuts and found Raul at a table enjoying some coffee and reading a book. "Excuse me, I don't mean to bother you, but I'm wondering if you have a few minutes for some opinion questions." "Sure" "Mind if I sit down?" "No problem" Raul said. I began, "I'm from a church nearby and I've been asking random people about their spiritual beliefs and background. Would you consider yourself a spiritual person?" This began a long conversation that brought Raul from faith in his own goodness before God to the realization that he is a lawbreaker deserving God's wrath, but has a Savior to put his faith in. He asked me about how my faith began so I told him how at age 17 I found out that Jesus had given His life for me; the least I could do was to try to give my life to Him. I saw Raul's cautious, guarded demeanor change to interest and gratitude. He agreed he had some things to work out with God "before he goes to sleep tonight." When it was time to leave he gave me a handshake and sincerely thanked me for stopping to talk. As I walked to the parking lot I saw he had abandoned his book for the additional info I left him.
I stopped at a Dunkin Donuts and found Raul at a table enjoying some coffee and reading a book. "Excuse me, I don't mean to bother you, but I'm wondering if you have a few minutes for some opinion questions." "Sure" "Mind if I sit down?" "No problem" Raul said. I began, "I'm from a church nearby and I've been asking random people about their spiritual beliefs and background. Would you consider yourself a spiritual person?" This began a long conversation that brought Raul from faith in his own goodness before God to the realization that he is a lawbreaker deserving God's wrath, but has a Savior to put his faith in. He asked me about how my faith began so I told him how at age 17 I found out that Jesus had given His life for me; the least I could do was to try to give my life to Him. I saw Raul's cautious, guarded demeanor change to interest and gratitude. He agreed he had some things to work out with God "before he goes to sleep tonight." When it was time to leave he gave me a handshake and sincerely thanked me for stopping to talk. As I walked to the parking lot I saw he had abandoned his book for the additional info I left him.
01/05/10 Steven, Anita, Darryl, all about 40
At an all black south side grocery store I had separate conversations with 3 middle-aged shoppers, all of whom had almost the same answers to my questions. All three grew up in churchgoing families, claimed to attend church now, believe in God, believe in heaven, and believe they are good enough to make it there. When I questioned this last belief, they each agreed they aren't perfect, but still maintained they are "good enough". When I used a few commandments to test this belief and personalize their sins, they each admitted that, while they may not be "good enough", at least they had confessed and repented - surely God would forgive them on this basis. But our faith can't be in our own goodness OR the sincerity of our repentance. There is a reason Jesus died on the cross - to pay the penalty for our sins and once I explained this, each of these three easily agreed. Yet at first they were "good enough" for heaven! What is it that causes church people to so easily put their faith in their own goodness rather than the finished work of Christ on the cross? 2 Cor.13:5 says "Examine yourselves to see whether you are in the faith; test yourselves." to see if Christ is in us. It is biblical to point to the changes God brings in our lives as evidence of faith in Jesus, but I think there is much confusion between "cause' and "effect" - our good works don't cause salvation but rather salvation results in the effect of good works and repentance. Do these three people have saving faith in Jesus? It's not for me to decide but I do know one thing - they won't be able to clearly share the gospel with others if they aren't clear on it themselves.
At an all black south side grocery store I had separate conversations with 3 middle-aged shoppers, all of whom had almost the same answers to my questions. All three grew up in churchgoing families, claimed to attend church now, believe in God, believe in heaven, and believe they are good enough to make it there. When I questioned this last belief, they each agreed they aren't perfect, but still maintained they are "good enough". When I used a few commandments to test this belief and personalize their sins, they each admitted that, while they may not be "good enough", at least they had confessed and repented - surely God would forgive them on this basis. But our faith can't be in our own goodness OR the sincerity of our repentance. There is a reason Jesus died on the cross - to pay the penalty for our sins and once I explained this, each of these three easily agreed. Yet at first they were "good enough" for heaven! What is it that causes church people to so easily put their faith in their own goodness rather than the finished work of Christ on the cross? 2 Cor.13:5 says "Examine yourselves to see whether you are in the faith; test yourselves." to see if Christ is in us. It is biblical to point to the changes God brings in our lives as evidence of faith in Jesus, but I think there is much confusion between "cause' and "effect" - our good works don't cause salvation but rather salvation results in the effect of good works and repentance. Do these three people have saving faith in Jesus? It's not for me to decide but I do know one thing - they won't be able to clearly share the gospel with others if they aren't clear on it themselves.
01/04/09 Kevin, about 20
After work today I met Marty (an elder at church) at his office and we went to a nearby grocery store to find someone we could share the good news of salvation with. Marty is new to "grocery store witnessing" so I assured him we wouldn't be arrested! He observed how I begin a witnessing conversation with a few laughs by giving people a million dollar bill gospel tract (the ones I had today have President Obama on the front). I try to be very up front in explaining that these are gospel tracts and then I just jump right in and ask people about their beliefs and how they think God might judge them. People usually seem open to talking a little but are often too caught up in their shopping for a long conversation. Today we talked longest with Kevin, who said he isn't sure if he believes in God or heaven anymore. He had been involved in church and seemed to have a good understanding of his guilt in breaking God's commandments and the message of Jesus and the cross, but told us he is no longer interested in church because of the hypocrisy he observed in the members there. I tried to help him understand first that not all church attendees are believers, and that those that are often need to be more mature. I encouraged Kevin to reconsider faith in Christ and who we are without Him, gave him some additional info, and Marty and I went on our way.
After work today I met Marty (an elder at church) at his office and we went to a nearby grocery store to find someone we could share the good news of salvation with. Marty is new to "grocery store witnessing" so I assured him we wouldn't be arrested! He observed how I begin a witnessing conversation with a few laughs by giving people a million dollar bill gospel tract (the ones I had today have President Obama on the front). I try to be very up front in explaining that these are gospel tracts and then I just jump right in and ask people about their beliefs and how they think God might judge them. People usually seem open to talking a little but are often too caught up in their shopping for a long conversation. Today we talked longest with Kevin, who said he isn't sure if he believes in God or heaven anymore. He had been involved in church and seemed to have a good understanding of his guilt in breaking God's commandments and the message of Jesus and the cross, but told us he is no longer interested in church because of the hypocrisy he observed in the members there. I tried to help him understand first that not all church attendees are believers, and that those that are often need to be more mature. I encouraged Kevin to reconsider faith in Christ and who we are without Him, gave him some additional info, and Marty and I went on our way.
01/03/10 Quinn, about 30
Sunday night at Starbucks. Quinn, a CPA and father of three young children, sought refuge there with his laptop to catch up on some accounting work before Monday morning. I told him I am from a local church and he graciously agreed to answer some questions about his beliefs. Quinn grew up Catholic, fell away from church soon after college, and has recently begun to attend mass again for the sake of his children. He believes all major religions teach basically the same thing and appreciates the moral benefits of religion for his children and society in general, but doesn't believe in the biblical concept of God or eternal life. "To me the idea of eternal life lessens the importance of love and commitment and everything that makes life worth living in the here and now". I told him I felt the opposite, that life would be meaningless if this is all there is to it. His views on morality are that good and bad are relative to one's culture, which makes sense if there is no God to determine absolute morality. If there IS a God whom we are accountable to, Quinn told me he would be judged to have done more bad than good in his life, and this surprised me because the vast majority of people I talk to think the opposite. We looked at this blog on his laptop and he asked what else I've learned from all my conversations. The main thing is how much a work of God salvation is. Just as we didn't choose to be born, no one can choose to be born again. It's not a decision; it simply becomes our only option. Thanks for a good conversation Quinn, hope I did it justice! Write a comment or e-mail me!
Sunday night at Starbucks. Quinn, a CPA and father of three young children, sought refuge there with his laptop to catch up on some accounting work before Monday morning. I told him I am from a local church and he graciously agreed to answer some questions about his beliefs. Quinn grew up Catholic, fell away from church soon after college, and has recently begun to attend mass again for the sake of his children. He believes all major religions teach basically the same thing and appreciates the moral benefits of religion for his children and society in general, but doesn't believe in the biblical concept of God or eternal life. "To me the idea of eternal life lessens the importance of love and commitment and everything that makes life worth living in the here and now". I told him I felt the opposite, that life would be meaningless if this is all there is to it. His views on morality are that good and bad are relative to one's culture, which makes sense if there is no God to determine absolute morality. If there IS a God whom we are accountable to, Quinn told me he would be judged to have done more bad than good in his life, and this surprised me because the vast majority of people I talk to think the opposite. We looked at this blog on his laptop and he asked what else I've learned from all my conversations. The main thing is how much a work of God salvation is. Just as we didn't choose to be born, no one can choose to be born again. It's not a decision; it simply becomes our only option. Thanks for a good conversation Quinn, hope I did it justice! Write a comment or e-mail me!
01/02/10 Anthony, about 25
At Chicago's south loop Target I asked several people sitting at tables in the cafe area if they had a few minutes to answer some opinion questions. They all turned me down and I really didn't feel bad because, after all, maybe they really didn't have a few minutes. I headed over to the books/music department where shoppers tend to be in less of a hurry and initiated a conversation with Anthony. He had grown up Catholic and attended Catholic High School, but said he has no interest in religion. "How can we know anything for sure, and if there is a God, I'll take my chances." "Would you say you are a good person?" I asked. "Oh I'm a VERY good person" he replied. I couldn't believe how blatantly he emphasized the "VERY", and he wasn't kidding about this. He explained that he is just naturally good, and doesn't think he needs to worry about any thoughts of heaven or hell. He sees it as selfish to ask questions like this. When I asked about a few commandments, he admitted to breaking them but cut me short - "I've heard all this before, and I think you are wasting your time. If there is a God, I'm willing to take my chances with him, whoever he is."
At Chicago's south loop Target I asked several people sitting at tables in the cafe area if they had a few minutes to answer some opinion questions. They all turned me down and I really didn't feel bad because, after all, maybe they really didn't have a few minutes. I headed over to the books/music department where shoppers tend to be in less of a hurry and initiated a conversation with Anthony. He had grown up Catholic and attended Catholic High School, but said he has no interest in religion. "How can we know anything for sure, and if there is a God, I'll take my chances." "Would you say you are a good person?" I asked. "Oh I'm a VERY good person" he replied. I couldn't believe how blatantly he emphasized the "VERY", and he wasn't kidding about this. He explained that he is just naturally good, and doesn't think he needs to worry about any thoughts of heaven or hell. He sees it as selfish to ask questions like this. When I asked about a few commandments, he admitted to breaking them but cut me short - "I've heard all this before, and I think you are wasting your time. If there is a God, I'm willing to take my chances with him, whoever he is."
01/01/10 "Initiative Evangelism"
First day of the New Year and I've already failed. I've fallen short of my goal to have at least one witnessing conversation every day. The good thing about it is I won't have any temptation to be proud that "I haven't missed a day all year!" I'm also glad that I haven't made any promises that I can't keep - after all, this is a goal, not a vow or a sacred commitment. It's simply a goal that I ask God and others to help me with.
So why did I miss yesterday? It's simple. I didn't take the initiative. I used to pray that God would send opportunities my way to share my faith. I sort of expected some obvious "Divine Appointment" to happen, whatever that's supposed to look like. I hear that phrase a lot in Christian circles, and whatever it is it somehow means that one way or another God himself will take the initiative to put a person in my path, or cause a conversation to naturally start, where there is no risk of failure on my part because I didn't stick my neck out to make it happen. Oh I might do all sorts of subtle, goofy things to drop hints to people that I'm a Christian and would love to talk about it - but for years I expected them to get the hints and take the initiative. What about all the hints from a lost world that they are looking for someone to care, someone to reach out to them? What about the escapism or slow suicide of drugs and alcohol, or the arrogant boasting of beautiful people trying to convince others that they are "living the dream", or the loneliness of the guy reading a book in public when he could just as well read it at home? In our non-confrontational culture people simply aren't going to admit they are lost, and most don't even know they are. But Jesus tells me otherwise, and He says "Go".
Of all the terms for it - street witnessing, personal evangelism, outreach, whatever - I think the phrase "Initiative Evangelism" best describes our role. Jesus commands us to go take advantage of the opportunities around us, not to passively sit back and wait for opportunities to come to us - "divine appointment" or otherwise. Wherever there are people who have a little time to talk there are opportunities, and for us as people of faith it will always mean that we must step out of our comfort zone. For me, I'm not going to consistently step out of my comfort zone without deciding on purpose to do so in advance, and so at this point in my Christian journey I need to set some sort of unnatural goal to get myself to do something that I guess should come naturally. Maybe one day it will; God isn't finished with me yet.
I want to encourage you to take the iniative - set an everyday evangelism goal on Steve Sanchez's Everyday Club at http://StoneThePreacher.com In many ways, it has been one of the best and most helpful goals I've set.
First day of the New Year and I've already failed. I've fallen short of my goal to have at least one witnessing conversation every day. The good thing about it is I won't have any temptation to be proud that "I haven't missed a day all year!" I'm also glad that I haven't made any promises that I can't keep - after all, this is a goal, not a vow or a sacred commitment. It's simply a goal that I ask God and others to help me with.
So why did I miss yesterday? It's simple. I didn't take the initiative. I used to pray that God would send opportunities my way to share my faith. I sort of expected some obvious "Divine Appointment" to happen, whatever that's supposed to look like. I hear that phrase a lot in Christian circles, and whatever it is it somehow means that one way or another God himself will take the initiative to put a person in my path, or cause a conversation to naturally start, where there is no risk of failure on my part because I didn't stick my neck out to make it happen. Oh I might do all sorts of subtle, goofy things to drop hints to people that I'm a Christian and would love to talk about it - but for years I expected them to get the hints and take the initiative. What about all the hints from a lost world that they are looking for someone to care, someone to reach out to them? What about the escapism or slow suicide of drugs and alcohol, or the arrogant boasting of beautiful people trying to convince others that they are "living the dream", or the loneliness of the guy reading a book in public when he could just as well read it at home? In our non-confrontational culture people simply aren't going to admit they are lost, and most don't even know they are. But Jesus tells me otherwise, and He says "Go".
Of all the terms for it - street witnessing, personal evangelism, outreach, whatever - I think the phrase "Initiative Evangelism" best describes our role. Jesus commands us to go take advantage of the opportunities around us, not to passively sit back and wait for opportunities to come to us - "divine appointment" or otherwise. Wherever there are people who have a little time to talk there are opportunities, and for us as people of faith it will always mean that we must step out of our comfort zone. For me, I'm not going to consistently step out of my comfort zone without deciding on purpose to do so in advance, and so at this point in my Christian journey I need to set some sort of unnatural goal to get myself to do something that I guess should come naturally. Maybe one day it will; God isn't finished with me yet.
I want to encourage you to take the iniative - set an everyday evangelism goal on Steve Sanchez's Everyday Club at http://StoneThePreacher.com In many ways, it has been one of the best and most helpful goals I've set.
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