9/30/10 Eli, about 30
Although I don't take a "canned" approach to gospel conversations, I do have a general direction in which I'd like the conversation to go - from acknowledging our appointment with eternity and helping the person take personal responsibility for their sin and need for forgiveness, to sharing God's love and the way of salvation in Jesus. I met Eli on the sidewalk today and started a conversation by saying, "Excuse me, can I ask you an interesting question?" I found out he was so confident of ending up in heaven that he never thinks about the things of God and rarely goes to his church's mass anymore. I told him "most people believe they will go to heaven, but Jesus said the road is wide that leads to destruction, and many enter through it, but small is the gate and narrow the road that leads to life, and only a few find it. (Matt.7:13-14) In fact, though most churches rarely talk about it, Jesus warned about hell 33 times in the 4 gospels. If He took it that serious, maybe we should too. Of course no one likes to talk about it, but ignoring hell won't make it go away." This got Eli's attention. I know because at first he talked while looking away, down the street, probably thinking about where he needed to go. But now he looked at me, and we had a heartfelt conversation. He agreed, at least on the level of mental assent, that he needs to get into a right relationship with God, and I challenged him to repent and put his trust in Jesus today.
Gospel conversations from the streets and marketplace....
9/29/10 Jose. Alberto, about 30, 45
I went to the park on this beautiful sunny afternoon, hoping to practice some Spanish while sharing the gospel. Of the four people I approached for a conversation, two spoke English but politely declined to talk about religion. The other two only spoke Spanish so I got the practice I had hoped for. An older man, Jose, was resting in the shade by his bike. He is a traditional Catholic and very curious about my church and what I believe. In particular, he wanted to know what I thought about Mary, the mother of Jesus. I shared how we all have sinned, that no one is perfect except Jesus, and that we can't trust in good works to save us. He seemed to be getting a little annoyed, either from my poor Spanish or differing beliefs, so I decided to leave before I wore out my welcome, hoping he'll still read the Spanish gospel tract I gave him. Then I met Alberto at the playground, watching his two kids. He grew up Catholic but now believes like many people that our souls are nothing but energy and will simply join into God's energy when we die. So many people have told me they believe this so I wondered where he got his beliefs from, but he said he came up with it on his own. He had to leave to pick up an older child from school, but wanted to come back to continue the conversation. I told him I needed to go to my own son's soccer game, but I asked "Do you believe it's at all possible that what the Bible is true?" He was open minded enough to agree that its possible, so on that note I gave him more info to read.
PS Today is my 365th post! ...although the first few months I would post multiple stories at once. Just the same this seems like a milestone to praise God for! I've learned a lot about evangelism, the Bible, myself, the church, and especially about human nature in this whole process. But I feel I've only scratched the surface and the Lord has so much more to teach me!
I went to the park on this beautiful sunny afternoon, hoping to practice some Spanish while sharing the gospel. Of the four people I approached for a conversation, two spoke English but politely declined to talk about religion. The other two only spoke Spanish so I got the practice I had hoped for. An older man, Jose, was resting in the shade by his bike. He is a traditional Catholic and very curious about my church and what I believe. In particular, he wanted to know what I thought about Mary, the mother of Jesus. I shared how we all have sinned, that no one is perfect except Jesus, and that we can't trust in good works to save us. He seemed to be getting a little annoyed, either from my poor Spanish or differing beliefs, so I decided to leave before I wore out my welcome, hoping he'll still read the Spanish gospel tract I gave him. Then I met Alberto at the playground, watching his two kids. He grew up Catholic but now believes like many people that our souls are nothing but energy and will simply join into God's energy when we die. So many people have told me they believe this so I wondered where he got his beliefs from, but he said he came up with it on his own. He had to leave to pick up an older child from school, but wanted to come back to continue the conversation. I told him I needed to go to my own son's soccer game, but I asked "Do you believe it's at all possible that what the Bible is true?" He was open minded enough to agree that its possible, so on that note I gave him more info to read.
PS Today is my 365th post! ...although the first few months I would post multiple stories at once. Just the same this seems like a milestone to praise God for! I've learned a lot about evangelism, the Bible, myself, the church, and especially about human nature in this whole process. But I feel I've only scratched the surface and the Lord has so much more to teach me!
9/28/10 Xavier, about 45
Just when I was beginning to wonder where the true believers in Jesus are I've come across four just in the last two days, one of whom was Xavier whom I met while he was walking his dog. Xavier attended an evangelical church for years, but wasn't truly born again until God got his attention through a lifesaving surgery a year ago. Every morning he looks at his surgical scar and praises God for another day of life. I encouraged him to share his faith, that God could also use him to "get people's attention" before resorting to something so drastic as surgery. I told him about the increasingly uncommon but very biblical approach of using the law to prepare peoples' hearts for grace.(Gal.3:24) "People don't hang on to the Savior until they know they need saving".I explained. Because his own church is so far away from where he lives, he was glad to hear about my church nearby and would like to visit soon. I prayed with him, for God's blessing on his faith, his church, his family. I thank God for the rare but encouraging conversations I am privileged to have with Christians while witnessing, not just "church people" but those who have truly trusted Christ alone for a right relationship with God. I wonder though, is it rare to find them because God puts mainly unbelievers in my path who need to hear the gospel the most, or are there really so few Christians out there? I hope it's the first reason, but I suspect it's the second. (Matt 7:13-14)
Just when I was beginning to wonder where the true believers in Jesus are I've come across four just in the last two days, one of whom was Xavier whom I met while he was walking his dog. Xavier attended an evangelical church for years, but wasn't truly born again until God got his attention through a lifesaving surgery a year ago. Every morning he looks at his surgical scar and praises God for another day of life. I encouraged him to share his faith, that God could also use him to "get people's attention" before resorting to something so drastic as surgery. I told him about the increasingly uncommon but very biblical approach of using the law to prepare peoples' hearts for grace.(Gal.3:24) "People don't hang on to the Savior until they know they need saving".I explained. Because his own church is so far away from where he lives, he was glad to hear about my church nearby and would like to visit soon. I prayed with him, for God's blessing on his faith, his church, his family. I thank God for the rare but encouraging conversations I am privileged to have with Christians while witnessing, not just "church people" but those who have truly trusted Christ alone for a right relationship with God. I wonder though, is it rare to find them because God puts mainly unbelievers in my path who need to hear the gospel the most, or are there really so few Christians out there? I hope it's the first reason, but I suspect it's the second. (Matt 7:13-14)
9/27/10 Kevin, about 20
After so many long gospel conversations lately, its hard to imagine that a two minute conversation could do much good. But if I am trusting in the Holy Spirit rather than my own efforts, who am I to limit God ? Luke (church elder) and I enjoyed a time of fellowship, walking around the neighborhood and looking to initiate a gospel conversation or two. I spoke with a young man waiting for the bus (Kevin) who was the opposite of Dan (yesterday) because he offered little opinion about anything spiritual. Was this because he didn't want to get in an extended conversation with the bus on its way, or because he truly hadn't thought much about it? I may never know this side of heaven but I did get some of God's word in his hand and some gospel truths in his heart before the bus arrived. Long conversation or short, seeds can be planted that only God can make grow. (1 Corinthians 3:5-7)
After so many long gospel conversations lately, its hard to imagine that a two minute conversation could do much good. But if I am trusting in the Holy Spirit rather than my own efforts, who am I to limit God ? Luke (church elder) and I enjoyed a time of fellowship, walking around the neighborhood and looking to initiate a gospel conversation or two. I spoke with a young man waiting for the bus (Kevin) who was the opposite of Dan (yesterday) because he offered little opinion about anything spiritual. Was this because he didn't want to get in an extended conversation with the bus on its way, or because he truly hadn't thought much about it? I may never know this side of heaven but I did get some of God's word in his hand and some gospel truths in his heart before the bus arrived. Long conversation or short, seeds can be planted that only God can make grow. (1 Corinthians 3:5-7)
9/26/10 Dan, 35
Today I met Dan, who was walking his dog Lucy at the park. He is here from L.A. to perform the wedding ceremony for his sister (he has been "ordained" on the internet). Dan grew up Catholic but joined a Pentecostal Church after being led to pray a "sinner's prayer" when he was 18. He became heavily involved and well-versed in the Bible and apologetics, going to witness at malls and parks regularly. At some point, however, he fell away from church and into alcoholism. He is now recovering with the help of A.A., and from his strong arguments against the faith has obviously spent a lot of time finding ways to debunk what he formerly believed - the inspiration of the Bible, Jesus' divinity, and our need for salvation among other things. He still considers himself very spiritual, getting inspiration from nature, but prefers to pick and choose what moral guidelines he will follow. He blames God, who created the world, for the state that it is in, and thus avoids responsibility for his sin. He thinks there is no reason to fear God and he made many statements in judgment of God, though he feels God has no right to judge him. Was Danny truly a fellow believer at one time? Apparently not, for one evidence of genuine faith is "if you continue in your faith, established and firm, not moved from the hope held out in the gospel" (Col. 1:23)
Today I met Dan, who was walking his dog Lucy at the park. He is here from L.A. to perform the wedding ceremony for his sister (he has been "ordained" on the internet). Dan grew up Catholic but joined a Pentecostal Church after being led to pray a "sinner's prayer" when he was 18. He became heavily involved and well-versed in the Bible and apologetics, going to witness at malls and parks regularly. At some point, however, he fell away from church and into alcoholism. He is now recovering with the help of A.A., and from his strong arguments against the faith has obviously spent a lot of time finding ways to debunk what he formerly believed - the inspiration of the Bible, Jesus' divinity, and our need for salvation among other things. He still considers himself very spiritual, getting inspiration from nature, but prefers to pick and choose what moral guidelines he will follow. He blames God, who created the world, for the state that it is in, and thus avoids responsibility for his sin. He thinks there is no reason to fear God and he made many statements in judgment of God, though he feels God has no right to judge him. Was Danny truly a fellow believer at one time? Apparently not, for one evidence of genuine faith is "if you continue in your faith, established and firm, not moved from the hope held out in the gospel" (Col. 1:23)
9/25/10 Jesus and Nikki, both 16
I was on the sidewalk at a busy intersection waiting for the stoplight to turn green when a young man (Jesus) suddenly ran across past me, misjudging how close the oncoming traffic was and leaving his girlfriend (Nikki) behind. In his haste he somehow dropped his wallet, so when the light did change I picked it up on the way across. When I gave it to him on the other side I couldn't help but ask "Where would you be if you had gotten hit by that car?" Nikki joined in - "Yeah, what were you thinking?" He had a look of bravado on his face, but I continued on "No really, what do you think comes next after this life?" They are young and haven't given it much thought, though in general Nikki said she believes in God and Jesus believes in a higher power of some sort. He agreed that he will be judged some day, and since energy can't "judge" us it is possible that God exists, so I continued with that assumption. I gave them the "good person" questions based on individual commandments to help them personalize and take responsibility for their own sins, and they seemed convicted by this. Jesus in particular agreed that if this is all true then he would deserve the punishment of hell, so this was a good time to addressed his disbelief in God: "No wonder so many people don't want to believe in God, so they don't have to face up to the punishment they deserve." They wanted to hear more, so I had the privilege of sharing the good news of Jesus there at that busy intersection.
I was on the sidewalk at a busy intersection waiting for the stoplight to turn green when a young man (Jesus) suddenly ran across past me, misjudging how close the oncoming traffic was and leaving his girlfriend (Nikki) behind. In his haste he somehow dropped his wallet, so when the light did change I picked it up on the way across. When I gave it to him on the other side I couldn't help but ask "Where would you be if you had gotten hit by that car?" Nikki joined in - "Yeah, what were you thinking?" He had a look of bravado on his face, but I continued on "No really, what do you think comes next after this life?" They are young and haven't given it much thought, though in general Nikki said she believes in God and Jesus believes in a higher power of some sort. He agreed that he will be judged some day, and since energy can't "judge" us it is possible that God exists, so I continued with that assumption. I gave them the "good person" questions based on individual commandments to help them personalize and take responsibility for their own sins, and they seemed convicted by this. Jesus in particular agreed that if this is all true then he would deserve the punishment of hell, so this was a good time to addressed his disbelief in God: "No wonder so many people don't want to believe in God, so they don't have to face up to the punishment they deserve." They wanted to hear more, so I had the privilege of sharing the good news of Jesus there at that busy intersection.
9/24/10 Demas, about 40
I flagged down a man on a bicycle (Demas) and asked what he believes about life after death. He is Catholic but unsure about what will happen to him. He believes in the Bible, in Jesus the Son of God, in God's holy standard of perfection and his own sin. He believes that when Jesus died on the cross He saved us from the devil. I asked what he would say if a person came up to him and asked him how one can be sure of heaven. He thought long on this and answered, "read the Bible". He had a simple, childlike faith and humility that seemed to come naturally to him. Like a person who knows little about nutrition but benefits from food, Demas doesn't understand much in terms of theology but does believe in Jesus. I spent some time explaining the details more clearly, and believe he understood and received it all graciously, but in the end I believe he will return to that simple, childlike faith. "I tell you the truth, unless you change and become like little children, you will never enter the kingdom of heaven." Matthew 18:3
I flagged down a man on a bicycle (Demas) and asked what he believes about life after death. He is Catholic but unsure about what will happen to him. He believes in the Bible, in Jesus the Son of God, in God's holy standard of perfection and his own sin. He believes that when Jesus died on the cross He saved us from the devil. I asked what he would say if a person came up to him and asked him how one can be sure of heaven. He thought long on this and answered, "read the Bible". He had a simple, childlike faith and humility that seemed to come naturally to him. Like a person who knows little about nutrition but benefits from food, Demas doesn't understand much in terms of theology but does believe in Jesus. I spent some time explaining the details more clearly, and believe he understood and received it all graciously, but in the end I believe he will return to that simple, childlike faith. "I tell you the truth, unless you change and become like little children, you will never enter the kingdom of heaven." Matthew 18:3
9/23/10 Omar 30
He doesn't go to church or read the Bible or even pray except when he's in trouble but in some ways Omar has a better understanding of God than most religious people I've met. He knows that we can't hide anything from God, yet has seen many church people do their religious duty in church on Sunday morning only to act like the devil the rest of the week. He knows God's standard is perfection, and that no amount of good works can save us, yet he sees church people attempt to earn God's favor with good deeds. Omar will have none of this. He was sitting on a park bench texting someone and I almost passed by thinking he was too busy to talk. Yet I did stop to ask about his beliefs and during our conversation he was so interested he must have ignored 10 phone calls. Omar can't relate to the Catholic tradition he grew up in, so he has just neglected his faith. He didn't think it possible to approach God without hypocrisy, until I told him about the forgiveness he can have in Jesus. He knows good people don't go to heaven because there aren't any, but forgiven people do. But like the Ephesians in Acts 19, his idea was that God will just forgive us automatically when we confess our sins. That may sound nice, but its only half the story. In repentance, we confess and turn away from our sins, but the other side of the same coin is faith - we turn from sin and in faith we turn to Jesus. I encouraged Omar to repent and trust Jesus today.
He doesn't go to church or read the Bible or even pray except when he's in trouble but in some ways Omar has a better understanding of God than most religious people I've met. He knows that we can't hide anything from God, yet has seen many church people do their religious duty in church on Sunday morning only to act like the devil the rest of the week. He knows God's standard is perfection, and that no amount of good works can save us, yet he sees church people attempt to earn God's favor with good deeds. Omar will have none of this. He was sitting on a park bench texting someone and I almost passed by thinking he was too busy to talk. Yet I did stop to ask about his beliefs and during our conversation he was so interested he must have ignored 10 phone calls. Omar can't relate to the Catholic tradition he grew up in, so he has just neglected his faith. He didn't think it possible to approach God without hypocrisy, until I told him about the forgiveness he can have in Jesus. He knows good people don't go to heaven because there aren't any, but forgiven people do. But like the Ephesians in Acts 19, his idea was that God will just forgive us automatically when we confess our sins. That may sound nice, but its only half the story. In repentance, we confess and turn away from our sins, but the other side of the same coin is faith - we turn from sin and in faith we turn to Jesus. I encouraged Omar to repent and trust Jesus today.
9/22/10 Dave early 20's
Martin (a church brother) and I went to the student center at IIT to initiate a gospel conversation. We met Dave, who is a chemical engineering student and a member of the armed forces, having been stationed recently in Turkey. Dave grew up in a Catholic family and, after exploring other religions and philosophies both through study and experience, still considers himself to be Catholic. He believes everyone will go to heaven, with no one being punished for sin because he thinks that, deep down, everyone is basically good at heart. He acknowledges the evil that is so prevalent in this world but attributes it to peer pressure - that otherwise good people do evil actions because of the bad influence of being in groups. When asked about how he thought God would judge him his focus was on the corporate sin that all of us are caught up in as part of being in this sinful world, such as our support of companies that use child labor or pollute the environment. After hearing all this my goal was to help him take personal responsibility for his sins against God. I started with Adam and Eve, and how they rebelled against the one simple law God gave them not because of peer pressure but because though they knew right from wrong they chose to disobey anyway. From there we see God holding all humanity responsible because we all have "the knowledge of good and evil" (Genesis 3:22) and choose to disobey regardless, putting ourselves first over obedience to God. I went on to explain how God's love for justice and his love for the world were both satisfied at the cross of Christ. Dave was running late for a meeting, but was clearly considering much that he hadn't considered before.
Martin (a church brother) and I went to the student center at IIT to initiate a gospel conversation. We met Dave, who is a chemical engineering student and a member of the armed forces, having been stationed recently in Turkey. Dave grew up in a Catholic family and, after exploring other religions and philosophies both through study and experience, still considers himself to be Catholic. He believes everyone will go to heaven, with no one being punished for sin because he thinks that, deep down, everyone is basically good at heart. He acknowledges the evil that is so prevalent in this world but attributes it to peer pressure - that otherwise good people do evil actions because of the bad influence of being in groups. When asked about how he thought God would judge him his focus was on the corporate sin that all of us are caught up in as part of being in this sinful world, such as our support of companies that use child labor or pollute the environment. After hearing all this my goal was to help him take personal responsibility for his sins against God. I started with Adam and Eve, and how they rebelled against the one simple law God gave them not because of peer pressure but because though they knew right from wrong they chose to disobey anyway. From there we see God holding all humanity responsible because we all have "the knowledge of good and evil" (Genesis 3:22) and choose to disobey regardless, putting ourselves first over obedience to God. I went on to explain how God's love for justice and his love for the world were both satisfied at the cross of Christ. Dave was running late for a meeting, but was clearly considering much that he hadn't considered before.
9/21/10 Jonathan, 29
Trying to explain the need for repentance when witnessing seems so simple, yet is so impossible for people to grasp. It too quickly becomes associated with the good works that the Bible says can't earn salvation. The basic sin of selfish pride we need to repent of is the very thing that keeps us from repenting. At the park today I met a young man (Jonathan) who obviously lives hard and fast. He said he believes he will go to hell if he doesn't change his sinful ways. From what I could tell his hope and faith lies in his ability to turn his life around before its too late. In fact, he said if he died today he would go to hell. I explained that he is right - but warned him that if he could change his ways and never commit another sin for the rest of his life, he would still be just as guilty as he is today. A right relationship with God can't be earned by our efforts at doing good or being sorry for the bad we've done. Our righteousness comes from Christ alone and I explained that to Jonathan. So must we repent to earn God's favor? No, but the heart that has truly been made new in Christ can't help but respond with repentance. There is no other way. If the Jesus we respond to is only our Savior and not our Lord, he's not the real Jesus but only the result of our selfish wishful thinking. At least Jonathan knew that much.
Trying to explain the need for repentance when witnessing seems so simple, yet is so impossible for people to grasp. It too quickly becomes associated with the good works that the Bible says can't earn salvation. The basic sin of selfish pride we need to repent of is the very thing that keeps us from repenting. At the park today I met a young man (Jonathan) who obviously lives hard and fast. He said he believes he will go to hell if he doesn't change his sinful ways. From what I could tell his hope and faith lies in his ability to turn his life around before its too late. In fact, he said if he died today he would go to hell. I explained that he is right - but warned him that if he could change his ways and never commit another sin for the rest of his life, he would still be just as guilty as he is today. A right relationship with God can't be earned by our efforts at doing good or being sorry for the bad we've done. Our righteousness comes from Christ alone and I explained that to Jonathan. So must we repent to earn God's favor? No, but the heart that has truly been made new in Christ can't help but respond with repentance. There is no other way. If the Jesus we respond to is only our Savior and not our Lord, he's not the real Jesus but only the result of our selfish wishful thinking. At least Jonathan knew that much.
9/20/10 Alex about 23
I will always have more to learn about evangelism, and writing these stories everyday helps me to reflect on conversations in order to learn from them. Today Jake (from church) and I went to the IIT campus and met Alex, a first-year graduate student. He welcomed my question about life after death, saying "I've been thinking a lot about that lately". He said he finds himself surrounded by atheistic friends, but just can't believe that everything happened by chance. Yet he doesn''t know what to believe about God, either, like whether God is an impersonal force or has a personality. He was very unsure about all this, so much in fact that he didn't really have much of an opinion one way or another. Yet he was sincerely interested, so I went on to explain about God's law and grace - both equally important parts of the Gospel, as well as I could. After a little while Alex stopped asking questions and just listened, so that this was more like a presentation than a conversation, and I'm not sure he was tracking with me. In the end, he seemed to dismiss it by saying he had heard much of this before. If I had it to do over again - and I will in a conversation with someone else - I will try to spend more time getting to know the person before sharing the Gospel so that I can relate it better to their pre-existing experiences and beliefs.
I will always have more to learn about evangelism, and writing these stories everyday helps me to reflect on conversations in order to learn from them. Today Jake (from church) and I went to the IIT campus and met Alex, a first-year graduate student. He welcomed my question about life after death, saying "I've been thinking a lot about that lately". He said he finds himself surrounded by atheistic friends, but just can't believe that everything happened by chance. Yet he doesn''t know what to believe about God, either, like whether God is an impersonal force or has a personality. He was very unsure about all this, so much in fact that he didn't really have much of an opinion one way or another. Yet he was sincerely interested, so I went on to explain about God's law and grace - both equally important parts of the Gospel, as well as I could. After a little while Alex stopped asking questions and just listened, so that this was more like a presentation than a conversation, and I'm not sure he was tracking with me. In the end, he seemed to dismiss it by saying he had heard much of this before. If I had it to do over again - and I will in a conversation with someone else - I will try to spend more time getting to know the person before sharing the Gospel so that I can relate it better to their pre-existing experiences and beliefs.
9/18/10 Ruben about 25
Being intentional about evangelism has taught me a lot about human nature. I would never have guessed that so many people like to talk about themselves as much as they do. When asked about his beliefs today, a young man walking to the train (Ruben) told me he is trying to rediscover the spirituality of his ancestors, the Aztec and Mayan peoples. He believes their spirits wander this earth yet today, and he actively tries to communicate with them through native dances and drug induced hallucinations. I actively listened and asked questions about Ruben's belief's for about 20 minutes with sincere interest, not agreeing but letting him know that I understood them and finding some common ground with Christianity. For example, he believes in life after death; a Creator God; the concept of good and evil; God's right to give rules and hold us accountable to them; the rebellion of man against God's rules; and man's responsibility to care for the earth. After a certain point I felt I had won Ruben's trust and it was only natural to share my own beliefs. I said "You know, we have a lot in common but there's a few key differences that I'd like to point out." I asked if these "spirits" of his ancestor's were now morally perfect, and he said that they were not, and are undergoing a purifying process much like the Catholic idea of purgatory. I explained how this will not satisfy God's justice, that our unforgiven sin is what keeps us from a right relationship with God. My time of listening and asking good questions had earned Ruben's respect, and he listened to the Gospel with interest. Though I emphasized that Jesus taught that he is the only way to the Father (John 14:6), I finally had to leave Ruben with his belief that all religions are basically the same, though he now has a new Bible, my contact info, and a sincere desire to find out more about Jesus.
Being intentional about evangelism has taught me a lot about human nature. I would never have guessed that so many people like to talk about themselves as much as they do. When asked about his beliefs today, a young man walking to the train (Ruben) told me he is trying to rediscover the spirituality of his ancestors, the Aztec and Mayan peoples. He believes their spirits wander this earth yet today, and he actively tries to communicate with them through native dances and drug induced hallucinations. I actively listened and asked questions about Ruben's belief's for about 20 minutes with sincere interest, not agreeing but letting him know that I understood them and finding some common ground with Christianity. For example, he believes in life after death; a Creator God; the concept of good and evil; God's right to give rules and hold us accountable to them; the rebellion of man against God's rules; and man's responsibility to care for the earth. After a certain point I felt I had won Ruben's trust and it was only natural to share my own beliefs. I said "You know, we have a lot in common but there's a few key differences that I'd like to point out." I asked if these "spirits" of his ancestor's were now morally perfect, and he said that they were not, and are undergoing a purifying process much like the Catholic idea of purgatory. I explained how this will not satisfy God's justice, that our unforgiven sin is what keeps us from a right relationship with God. My time of listening and asking good questions had earned Ruben's respect, and he listened to the Gospel with interest. Though I emphasized that Jesus taught that he is the only way to the Father (John 14:6), I finally had to leave Ruben with his belief that all religions are basically the same, though he now has a new Bible, my contact info, and a sincere desire to find out more about Jesus.
9/17/10 Rudy, about 25
I met Rudy while he was walking his dog and, with his permission, asked about his spiritual beliefs. This led to a long gospel conversation which led Rudy from doubting the reality of life after death to "counting the cost" of following Jesus. "I'm just not ready to make that leap" he said. Now I understand that God's timing is different from mine, and I told Rudy that Jesus did say to count the cost, (Luke 14:25-33) but also that tomorrow is not guaranteed, that th e Bible says "now is the day of salvation" (2 Cor. 6:2) I said "You might think you can always choose to follow God later in life, but the truth is that every time we turn away from Him we become even more hard hearted and unable to hear Him the next time."(Eph 4:17-19) Rudy admitted that yes, he has been rebelling against God, and that he does feel himself becoming more hard hearted. I prayed with him and continue to pray for him, that he will repent and believe today.
I met Rudy while he was walking his dog and, with his permission, asked about his spiritual beliefs. This led to a long gospel conversation which led Rudy from doubting the reality of life after death to "counting the cost" of following Jesus. "I'm just not ready to make that leap" he said. Now I understand that God's timing is different from mine, and I told Rudy that Jesus did say to count the cost, (Luke 14:25-33) but also that tomorrow is not guaranteed, that th e Bible says "now is the day of salvation" (2 Cor. 6:2) I said "You might think you can always choose to follow God later in life, but the truth is that every time we turn away from Him we become even more hard hearted and unable to hear Him the next time."(Eph 4:17-19) Rudy admitted that yes, he has been rebelling against God, and that he does feel himself becoming more hard hearted. I prayed with him and continue to pray for him, that he will repent and believe today.
9/17/10 William about 50
While out for a jog I felt led to stop to talk to a well dressed African-American man standing outside an IIT classroom building, and asked if I could run an interesting question by him. I asked what he believes about life after death. We talked a while and he generally believes in God's existence but has been turned off by the hypocrisy he has seen at church. He has seen "too many rich preachers in expensive suits and driving fancy cars". He doesn't read the Bible but said he believes he falls short of God's requirements for salvation as taught in church. I have come to believe that people will not live with the belief that they will go to hell when they die, so they do whatever they can to avoid this belief - such as discrediting belief in the Bible and changing their idea of God to one that they are more comfortable with, or deciding not to believe in God in the first place. I explained the gospel, really trying to emphasize that we are saved by God's grace, not our own good works (Ephesians 2:8-9). However when I talked about Jesus, William seemed to think that in Jesus God became human in order to better relate to us, but had an unfair advantage because of his divine nature. This is the same man-centered theology that says "If you were the only person in the world, Jesus would have died for you" Its just not biblical. We kept talking about this until Fred, a Buddhist, came and joined our conversation, but that would be another story to tell.
While out for a jog I felt led to stop to talk to a well dressed African-American man standing outside an IIT classroom building, and asked if I could run an interesting question by him. I asked what he believes about life after death. We talked a while and he generally believes in God's existence but has been turned off by the hypocrisy he has seen at church. He has seen "too many rich preachers in expensive suits and driving fancy cars". He doesn't read the Bible but said he believes he falls short of God's requirements for salvation as taught in church. I have come to believe that people will not live with the belief that they will go to hell when they die, so they do whatever they can to avoid this belief - such as discrediting belief in the Bible and changing their idea of God to one that they are more comfortable with, or deciding not to believe in God in the first place. I explained the gospel, really trying to emphasize that we are saved by God's grace, not our own good works (Ephesians 2:8-9). However when I talked about Jesus, William seemed to think that in Jesus God became human in order to better relate to us, but had an unfair advantage because of his divine nature. This is the same man-centered theology that says "If you were the only person in the world, Jesus would have died for you" Its just not biblical. We kept talking about this until Fred, a Buddhist, came and joined our conversation, but that would be another story to tell.
9/16/10 Omar, 14
After work I stopped at the park and flagged down a teenager on his bicycle (Omar) teling him I had an interesting question for him. "What do you think happens after this life?" He shrugged, seeming not to care. He had that fatalistic "running the streets" look which made me curious, so I asked "How long do you think you will live?" He guessed he wouldn't live to be older than 21 and I could tell he wasn't kidding. Omar was one of the small percentage of people who told me that he believes he will go to hell when he dies, and one of an even smaller percentage whom I believe meant it. I wanted to talk him out of it, tell he's not that bad, give him happy news that he surely doesn't deserve such a severe punishment, but if what Jesus said is true, that we are all "condemned already" (John 3:18), then I would be lying and giving him false hope. Instead I took a different approach, telling him that even the most religious people he knows, including a church guy like me, don't deserve heaven but deserve the punishment of hell for breaking God's law. The truth is that compared to other people, Omar might not be so bad but compared to God's standards, such as the Ten Commandments, he is just as guilty as the rest of us. Though I could tell this was a lot for him to take in, I talked briefly about the forgiveness that comes through faith in Jesus. I felt he needs to come to grips with his sin and accountability before God, but I wanted him to see that there is hope too.
After work I stopped at the park and flagged down a teenager on his bicycle (Omar) teling him I had an interesting question for him. "What do you think happens after this life?" He shrugged, seeming not to care. He had that fatalistic "running the streets" look which made me curious, so I asked "How long do you think you will live?" He guessed he wouldn't live to be older than 21 and I could tell he wasn't kidding. Omar was one of the small percentage of people who told me that he believes he will go to hell when he dies, and one of an even smaller percentage whom I believe meant it. I wanted to talk him out of it, tell he's not that bad, give him happy news that he surely doesn't deserve such a severe punishment, but if what Jesus said is true, that we are all "condemned already" (John 3:18), then I would be lying and giving him false hope. Instead I took a different approach, telling him that even the most religious people he knows, including a church guy like me, don't deserve heaven but deserve the punishment of hell for breaking God's law. The truth is that compared to other people, Omar might not be so bad but compared to God's standards, such as the Ten Commandments, he is just as guilty as the rest of us. Though I could tell this was a lot for him to take in, I talked briefly about the forgiveness that comes through faith in Jesus. I felt he needs to come to grips with his sin and accountability before God, but I wanted him to see that there is hope too.
9/15/10 David and Darell, both about 25
I went to a White Sox game, not primarily to share my faith but to enjoy the game with my family. However I did want to have at least one gospel conversation, so about the 7th inning I went for a walk around the field, past the groups of partiers and people waiting in lines. Being in such a huge crowd, all focused on beer and baseball, I truly felt like the "alien and stranger in the world" that Peter wrote that we as Christians are. (1 Peter 2:11) In that same verse Peter advises us "to abstain from sinful desires, which war against your soul". I did feel that war in my soul as I tried to remind myself of my purpose here on this earth while in the midst of all the distractions of the party scene. "Where do I start?" I wondered, but my goal was to talk to just one person, not the thousands I was in the midst of. Other excuses filled my head. "I don't want to be a party pooper" "These people are too drunk" "Everyone seems too busy to talk" "They'll be mad because the Sox are losing and take it out on me" I went outside on the exit ramp for some fresh air and a quiet moment for prayer, then dove back into the crowd. I found David and Derrick, two African-American young men, and had a good talk with them. They were a little silly at first, being caught up in the frivolitry, but a turning point in the conversation happened when I looked at them and sincerely said "I want to see you in heaven some day" They became very respectful, knowing I had their best interest at heart. They both have typical church backgrounds, caught up in trying to be "good enough" and forgetting Jesus - the way, the truth, and the life of our faith.
I went to a White Sox game, not primarily to share my faith but to enjoy the game with my family. However I did want to have at least one gospel conversation, so about the 7th inning I went for a walk around the field, past the groups of partiers and people waiting in lines. Being in such a huge crowd, all focused on beer and baseball, I truly felt like the "alien and stranger in the world" that Peter wrote that we as Christians are. (1 Peter 2:11) In that same verse Peter advises us "to abstain from sinful desires, which war against your soul". I did feel that war in my soul as I tried to remind myself of my purpose here on this earth while in the midst of all the distractions of the party scene. "Where do I start?" I wondered, but my goal was to talk to just one person, not the thousands I was in the midst of. Other excuses filled my head. "I don't want to be a party pooper" "These people are too drunk" "Everyone seems too busy to talk" "They'll be mad because the Sox are losing and take it out on me" I went outside on the exit ramp for some fresh air and a quiet moment for prayer, then dove back into the crowd. I found David and Derrick, two African-American young men, and had a good talk with them. They were a little silly at first, being caught up in the frivolitry, but a turning point in the conversation happened when I looked at them and sincerely said "I want to see you in heaven some day" They became very respectful, knowing I had their best interest at heart. They both have typical church backgrounds, caught up in trying to be "good enough" and forgetting Jesus - the way, the truth, and the life of our faith.
9/14/10 Martin, about 35
When a person sets a goal they know that to meet that goal will often involve sacrifice and planning ahead. One of my goals is to share the gospel every day. Today I knew that I would be busy after work and this evening, so during my break I went to a nearby Dunkin' Donuts for some coffee and conversation. Inside I saw a middle-aged man sitting near a booth of giggling high school girls who seemed to be watching me for some reason. It wasn't easy, because there's always that fear of rejection, but I went over to ask the man (Martin) if he would be willing to answer some interesting questions. He said he couldn't speak English very well so I asked if I could practice my Spanish, and he agreed. Why I, a 48 year old man, would worry about embarrassment in front of a bunch of high school girls now sounds silly but I was very glad he agreed to talk. It turned out that he is taking English classes and his English is much better than my Spanish. We went on to a good conversation in which he taught me much about Spanish, and I was able to share the Gospel with him in both Spanish and English. Martin grew up Catholic in Mexico, but hasn't read the Bible since his catechism classes and now only attends church for special occasions. I also gave him a Spanish New Testament and invited him to church. The faith he has is based on having been told at some point that God forgives "good people" for their imperfections, and as long as he avoids serious sins, he will go to heaven. Exposure to the Ten Commandments helped him see his guilt, and sharing the good news of Jesus helped him see God's love and mercy.
When a person sets a goal they know that to meet that goal will often involve sacrifice and planning ahead. One of my goals is to share the gospel every day. Today I knew that I would be busy after work and this evening, so during my break I went to a nearby Dunkin' Donuts for some coffee and conversation. Inside I saw a middle-aged man sitting near a booth of giggling high school girls who seemed to be watching me for some reason. It wasn't easy, because there's always that fear of rejection, but I went over to ask the man (Martin) if he would be willing to answer some interesting questions. He said he couldn't speak English very well so I asked if I could practice my Spanish, and he agreed. Why I, a 48 year old man, would worry about embarrassment in front of a bunch of high school girls now sounds silly but I was very glad he agreed to talk. It turned out that he is taking English classes and his English is much better than my Spanish. We went on to a good conversation in which he taught me much about Spanish, and I was able to share the Gospel with him in both Spanish and English. Martin grew up Catholic in Mexico, but hasn't read the Bible since his catechism classes and now only attends church for special occasions. I also gave him a Spanish New Testament and invited him to church. The faith he has is based on having been told at some point that God forgives "good people" for their imperfections, and as long as he avoids serious sins, he will go to heaven. Exposure to the Ten Commandments helped him see his guilt, and sharing the good news of Jesus helped him see God's love and mercy.
9/13/10 Ted, Paul, Sally, Ricardo all middle aged
After church yesterday I planned a 'fishing expedition" with Paul, an older church brother, so we met after work today to share the gospel with whomever we might come across. We had conversations with Ted, Paul and his girlfriend Sally, and Ricardo, and they all had some things in common - they all have heard the gospel clearly through various ministries of our church, and they all continue to trust in their own "good works" for salvation. I know Jesus said "But I, when I am lifted up from the earth, will draw all men to myself" (John 12:32) and I trust that He will, but the means that God has ordained is the proclamation of this gospel through people like you and me, which we must be ready to do as many times as neccesary to help people overcome their obstacles to faith. For Ted and Sally, a big obstacle seems to be a lack of comprehension; for Paul it seems to be alcoholism; and for Ricardo it seems to be unbiblical religious traditions that he won't let go of. How many of us heard the Gospel from a variety of people before we came to faith in Jesus? Don't we owe more than one opportunity to others?
After church yesterday I planned a 'fishing expedition" with Paul, an older church brother, so we met after work today to share the gospel with whomever we might come across. We had conversations with Ted, Paul and his girlfriend Sally, and Ricardo, and they all had some things in common - they all have heard the gospel clearly through various ministries of our church, and they all continue to trust in their own "good works" for salvation. I know Jesus said "But I, when I am lifted up from the earth, will draw all men to myself" (John 12:32) and I trust that He will, but the means that God has ordained is the proclamation of this gospel through people like you and me, which we must be ready to do as many times as neccesary to help people overcome their obstacles to faith. For Ted and Sally, a big obstacle seems to be a lack of comprehension; for Paul it seems to be alcoholism; and for Ricardo it seems to be unbiblical religious traditions that he won't let go of. How many of us heard the Gospel from a variety of people before we came to faith in Jesus? Don't we owe more than one opportunity to others?
9/12/10 Vincent, about 40
After church I went with Brad out to share the Gospel at a nearby park. Brad is relatively new to our church, and I enjoyed getting to know him between several shorter conversations with people. One short conversation was with Vincent, a middle-aged African American man who said he believes in God and comes from a Baptist background. He said he believes in heaven but not hell, and that when unbelievers die they just wander around like ghosts here on earth. I asked if he reads his Bible much and he admitted that he does not, so I told him that in the Bible Jesus speaks more about the realities of heaven and hell than anyone, and He warned that "wide is the gate and broad is the road that leads to destruction, and many enter through it. But small is the gate and narrow the road that leads to life, and only a few find it." (Matthew 7:13-14) Vincent said, "I'm late for a meeting, but tell me where your church is, I'd like to check it out next Sunday." I pray that this "seed" we planted won't end up among thorns, where "the worries of this life, the deceitfulness of wealth and the desires for other things come in and choke the word, making it unfruitful." (Matthew 4:18-22)
As we left I noticed a man with a long ponytail, carrying a pizza, and the back of his t-shirt read "Christians to the Lions". I didn't know what the front said but I was curious, so I hurried to catch up to him and asked "Excuse me, but I'd like to ask about your shirt" Without looking back he said "I don't want to talk about 'spit'! Get away from me!" I write this to say that reactions like this are very few and far between, especially in situations where people have some time to talk, and besides, the devil might tell me I've been rejected, but in reality how could this man reject me? He doesn't even know me!
After church I went with Brad out to share the Gospel at a nearby park. Brad is relatively new to our church, and I enjoyed getting to know him between several shorter conversations with people. One short conversation was with Vincent, a middle-aged African American man who said he believes in God and comes from a Baptist background. He said he believes in heaven but not hell, and that when unbelievers die they just wander around like ghosts here on earth. I asked if he reads his Bible much and he admitted that he does not, so I told him that in the Bible Jesus speaks more about the realities of heaven and hell than anyone, and He warned that "wide is the gate and broad is the road that leads to destruction, and many enter through it. But small is the gate and narrow the road that leads to life, and only a few find it." (Matthew 7:13-14) Vincent said, "I'm late for a meeting, but tell me where your church is, I'd like to check it out next Sunday." I pray that this "seed" we planted won't end up among thorns, where "the worries of this life, the deceitfulness of wealth and the desires for other things come in and choke the word, making it unfruitful." (Matthew 4:18-22)
As we left I noticed a man with a long ponytail, carrying a pizza, and the back of his t-shirt read "Christians to the Lions". I didn't know what the front said but I was curious, so I hurried to catch up to him and asked "Excuse me, but I'd like to ask about your shirt" Without looking back he said "I don't want to talk about 'spit'! Get away from me!" I write this to say that reactions like this are very few and far between, especially in situations where people have some time to talk, and besides, the devil might tell me I've been rejected, but in reality how could this man reject me? He doesn't even know me!
9/11/10 David, 47
A man came up to me on a sidewalk to give me some coupons for a new store opening in the neighborhood, and I told him I had an interesting question for him. "Do you have any spiritual beliefs, like a belief in a higher power?" He turned out to be a Buddhist from, of all places, Columbia in South America. He claimed that he didn't believe in God but had found inner peace through Buddhism. I asked "What do you believe happens after we die?" "You will receive back whatever you do in this life" was his answer. "But if there is no God, who decides?" I asked. Dave replied "Its the law of consequences." "But if there's a law, there must be a lawgiver, right?" Dave dismissed this question with a lot of spiritual-sounding rhetoric, saying the important thing is that he finds peace by knowing he is forgiven for all his mistakes. "But who does the forgiving" I asked. Again, more spiritual rhetoric, that he must come to peace and forgive himself. "Forgive yourself?" I questioned. He tried to explain, "We believe there are spirit beings that report our activities to the universe." I wasn't asking these questions just for the sake of arguing but to reveal the illogic of what David was saying. He had to get going, so I gave him the "Why Christianity?" booklet, which compares world religions and shows how biblical Christianity alone addresses the problem of our sin which comes between us and our Creator. Colossians 1:21-23
A man came up to me on a sidewalk to give me some coupons for a new store opening in the neighborhood, and I told him I had an interesting question for him. "Do you have any spiritual beliefs, like a belief in a higher power?" He turned out to be a Buddhist from, of all places, Columbia in South America. He claimed that he didn't believe in God but had found inner peace through Buddhism. I asked "What do you believe happens after we die?" "You will receive back whatever you do in this life" was his answer. "But if there is no God, who decides?" I asked. Dave replied "Its the law of consequences." "But if there's a law, there must be a lawgiver, right?" Dave dismissed this question with a lot of spiritual-sounding rhetoric, saying the important thing is that he finds peace by knowing he is forgiven for all his mistakes. "But who does the forgiving" I asked. Again, more spiritual rhetoric, that he must come to peace and forgive himself. "Forgive yourself?" I questioned. He tried to explain, "We believe there are spirit beings that report our activities to the universe." I wasn't asking these questions just for the sake of arguing but to reveal the illogic of what David was saying. He had to get going, so I gave him the "Why Christianity?" booklet, which compares world religions and shows how biblical Christianity alone addresses the problem of our sin which comes between us and our Creator. Colossians 1:21-23
9/10/10 Rahm, about 22
I went with Marcos, a church brother and a junior at IIT, to the IIT campus where we met Rahm, a student from India, on the sidewalk. When I asked about his beliefs he said that he doesn't believe in God or any kind of higher power, yet he does believe in a heaven and hell for good and bad people. When I pointed out that someone must be the final judge to determine where we end up, he finally said that he is a Muslim and believes that Allah is that judge. When I found this out, I began a line of reasoning specifically for Muslims. I talked about God's infinite holiness, something Muslims must agree with. From there the next logical step is to explain how God's perfect justice would demand an infinite punishment when we disrespect Him by disregarding His law, and how He would be offended when we try to bribe him with our good works, described in Isaiah as "filthy rags". (Isaiah 64:6) Rahm agreed that no amount of good deeds could "pay" for the bad we've done. I said all this to explain why and how we need a Savior, and from there it was easy to talk about our need for Jesus and the cross. Rahm received all this on an intellectual level and appreciated the conversation.
I went with Marcos, a church brother and a junior at IIT, to the IIT campus where we met Rahm, a student from India, on the sidewalk. When I asked about his beliefs he said that he doesn't believe in God or any kind of higher power, yet he does believe in a heaven and hell for good and bad people. When I pointed out that someone must be the final judge to determine where we end up, he finally said that he is a Muslim and believes that Allah is that judge. When I found this out, I began a line of reasoning specifically for Muslims. I talked about God's infinite holiness, something Muslims must agree with. From there the next logical step is to explain how God's perfect justice would demand an infinite punishment when we disrespect Him by disregarding His law, and how He would be offended when we try to bribe him with our good works, described in Isaiah as "filthy rags". (Isaiah 64:6) Rahm agreed that no amount of good deeds could "pay" for the bad we've done. I said all this to explain why and how we need a Savior, and from there it was easy to talk about our need for Jesus and the cross. Rahm received all this on an intellectual level and appreciated the conversation.
9/9/10 John, 46
I struck up a conversation with a father (John) who was watching his son at a soccer game and found out he had immigrated here from Romania 12 years ago. He grew up in a Pentecostal home there, so I asked how he had been treated by the communist government that had been in charge there before the fall of the Soviet Union. John had been singled out while in the army which used various hardships to convince him to renounce his faith over a period of three months. When they failed in this they shipped him off to another military base, warning him things would be much worse for him there but in fact they became much better. As we talked I could tell he is active in his church and very familiar with the Bible. Wanting to be sure of his faith, I asked how he would respond if I had asked him how I could be sure I will go to heaven. "After all, we must be ready to share our faith in season and out of season, right?" (2 Timothy 4:2) He agreed but confessed he wouldn't know what to say. He said he does try to witness when he walks his dog at a park, and asks people "Do you know where you are going?" When they ask "where?" he responds "Go to church, they will tell you!" I told him about "The Way of the Master" which follows Jesus' example with the rich young ruler in using the Ten Commandments to show him his need for a Savior. (Mark 10:17-27) John had already heard about it from one of his sons who is a junior at the Moody Bible Institute. Like many church people who don't regularly share their faith, John knew that "Jesus died for us" but couldn't explain why. I spent some time doing so, demonstrating how I witness at the same time. I told him that as Christians we can't afford to wait for the world to come to our churches, we need to go out from our churches into the world. John said that they never taught this growing up in Romania, "but its not too late for me to start!"
I struck up a conversation with a father (John) who was watching his son at a soccer game and found out he had immigrated here from Romania 12 years ago. He grew up in a Pentecostal home there, so I asked how he had been treated by the communist government that had been in charge there before the fall of the Soviet Union. John had been singled out while in the army which used various hardships to convince him to renounce his faith over a period of three months. When they failed in this they shipped him off to another military base, warning him things would be much worse for him there but in fact they became much better. As we talked I could tell he is active in his church and very familiar with the Bible. Wanting to be sure of his faith, I asked how he would respond if I had asked him how I could be sure I will go to heaven. "After all, we must be ready to share our faith in season and out of season, right?" (2 Timothy 4:2) He agreed but confessed he wouldn't know what to say. He said he does try to witness when he walks his dog at a park, and asks people "Do you know where you are going?" When they ask "where?" he responds "Go to church, they will tell you!" I told him about "The Way of the Master" which follows Jesus' example with the rich young ruler in using the Ten Commandments to show him his need for a Savior. (Mark 10:17-27) John had already heard about it from one of his sons who is a junior at the Moody Bible Institute. Like many church people who don't regularly share their faith, John knew that "Jesus died for us" but couldn't explain why. I spent some time doing so, demonstrating how I witness at the same time. I told him that as Christians we can't afford to wait for the world to come to our churches, we need to go out from our churches into the world. John said that they never taught this growing up in Romania, "but its not too late for me to start!"
9/8/10 Mario, about 35
I brought my son early to his soccer game and had some extra time so I went for a walk and found a bicyclist (Mario) resting at a park bench. With his permission I asked about his beliefs: "Of course I believe in life after death" he told me, and went on to speak of good and bad karma, reincarnation, and what he was really passionate about, the effects of junk food on our energy "vibrations". He didn't follow any organized religion but claimed to have tried being a "born-again Christian" among other religious beliefs. He seemed to be quite biblically literate, but when held accountable to particular biblical teachings he was quick to say that the Bible is man-made and can't be trusted. As I clarified more and more biblical truths he began to agree more and more to a biblical perspective but eventually after I shared about how Jesus' death on the cross satisfied God's demand for the just penalty for our sins, Mario agreed but added that reincarnation helps purify our souls and makes us fit for heaven. I pointed out that the only opinion that matters is God's, and if he declares us forgiven from the penalty of sin when we have faith in Jesus, then we can go on to live in a right relation to Him regardless of our guilt and the punishment of hell we deserve.. Our long conversation took many turns, but this was a point that got Mario's attention. I left him with more to read and my contact info, inviting him to contact me to talk further.
I brought my son early to his soccer game and had some extra time so I went for a walk and found a bicyclist (Mario) resting at a park bench. With his permission I asked about his beliefs: "Of course I believe in life after death" he told me, and went on to speak of good and bad karma, reincarnation, and what he was really passionate about, the effects of junk food on our energy "vibrations". He didn't follow any organized religion but claimed to have tried being a "born-again Christian" among other religious beliefs. He seemed to be quite biblically literate, but when held accountable to particular biblical teachings he was quick to say that the Bible is man-made and can't be trusted. As I clarified more and more biblical truths he began to agree more and more to a biblical perspective but eventually after I shared about how Jesus' death on the cross satisfied God's demand for the just penalty for our sins, Mario agreed but added that reincarnation helps purify our souls and makes us fit for heaven. I pointed out that the only opinion that matters is God's, and if he declares us forgiven from the penalty of sin when we have faith in Jesus, then we can go on to live in a right relation to Him regardless of our guilt and the punishment of hell we deserve.. Our long conversation took many turns, but this was a point that got Mario's attention. I left him with more to read and my contact info, inviting him to contact me to talk further.
9/7/10 Ernesto, about 40
I began a conversation today by asking a Latino man at the park, who couldn't speak any English, if he would help me practice Spanish. He was glad to, and we talked for an hour in a wide-ranging conversation. After some time I told him of my Christian faith and asked about his beliefs. The problem with an informal "shooting the breeze" conversation like this is that it can be very awkward to try to keep the conversation focused in a spiritual direction, since this wasn't the agreed upon topic of conversation in the first place. I find it better to intentionally begin a conversation with a stranger by talking about spiritual things up front, usually by asking for permission to do so or by giving a tract as a conversation starter. Then when the conversation drifts off-topic it is only naturally to get back to what we started out with. Ernesto was open to talking about his religious beliefs, which were very minimal as a child and even less important to him now, but he is passionate when talking about politics. I did give him a Spanish Bible and circled some key passages in it for him to focus on. I pray God's Word in printed form will do for Ernesto what I didn't do so well verbally - share the hope we have of eternal life in Christ.
I began a conversation today by asking a Latino man at the park, who couldn't speak any English, if he would help me practice Spanish. He was glad to, and we talked for an hour in a wide-ranging conversation. After some time I told him of my Christian faith and asked about his beliefs. The problem with an informal "shooting the breeze" conversation like this is that it can be very awkward to try to keep the conversation focused in a spiritual direction, since this wasn't the agreed upon topic of conversation in the first place. I find it better to intentionally begin a conversation with a stranger by talking about spiritual things up front, usually by asking for permission to do so or by giving a tract as a conversation starter. Then when the conversation drifts off-topic it is only naturally to get back to what we started out with. Ernesto was open to talking about his religious beliefs, which were very minimal as a child and even less important to him now, but he is passionate when talking about politics. I did give him a Spanish Bible and circled some key passages in it for him to focus on. I pray God's Word in printed form will do for Ernesto what I didn't do so well verbally - share the hope we have of eternal life in Christ.
9/6/10 Leo, early 20's
A young man, dressed "Goth" style, earbuds in, was walking down the sidewalk toward me. I got his attention and asked for permission to run a few questions by him about his beliefs. "For example, do you believe in a higher power?" I've found that starting in these general terms assures people that I am willing to hear about whatever beliefs they might have, and Leo gave me an earful. He grew up with Jehovah's Witness parents and has been exploring and experimenting with other religions and beliefs for years, from Satanism and Mormonism to Buddhism and beliefs about Greek gods. He said "I just want to de-convert my family from the Jehovah's Witnesses" but I could tell he hasn't found anything worth converting them to. His view of God, however, is a major stumbling block: "I basically think God is like an overgrown child who was experimenting with people and doesn't really know what he was doing, and is now just sitting back to see how it will all turn out." Leo's sense of morality seemed to swing between extremes, from going to people he had offended and apologizing for wrongs against them, to stating that he sees nothing wrong with abortion or genocide "because the world is just too overpopulated as it is." I wanted to help personalize his sin and accountability to God without going down the rabbit trails of controversial issues or hypothetical situations, so I asked him specific questions about how well he has kept the Ten Commandments. Though he could clearly see his guilt, he said "I welcome death. It's the next great adventure wherever I end up, whether it's heaven or hell or someplace else!" "You sound like someone who has no fear of hell" I said. He agreed, and went on to talk about other alternative beliefs, like he has a choice in the matter.
A young man, dressed "Goth" style, earbuds in, was walking down the sidewalk toward me. I got his attention and asked for permission to run a few questions by him about his beliefs. "For example, do you believe in a higher power?" I've found that starting in these general terms assures people that I am willing to hear about whatever beliefs they might have, and Leo gave me an earful. He grew up with Jehovah's Witness parents and has been exploring and experimenting with other religions and beliefs for years, from Satanism and Mormonism to Buddhism and beliefs about Greek gods. He said "I just want to de-convert my family from the Jehovah's Witnesses" but I could tell he hasn't found anything worth converting them to. His view of God, however, is a major stumbling block: "I basically think God is like an overgrown child who was experimenting with people and doesn't really know what he was doing, and is now just sitting back to see how it will all turn out." Leo's sense of morality seemed to swing between extremes, from going to people he had offended and apologizing for wrongs against them, to stating that he sees nothing wrong with abortion or genocide "because the world is just too overpopulated as it is." I wanted to help personalize his sin and accountability to God without going down the rabbit trails of controversial issues or hypothetical situations, so I asked him specific questions about how well he has kept the Ten Commandments. Though he could clearly see his guilt, he said "I welcome death. It's the next great adventure wherever I end up, whether it's heaven or hell or someplace else!" "You sound like someone who has no fear of hell" I said. He agreed, and went on to talk about other alternative beliefs, like he has a choice in the matter.
9/5/10 Jack, about 35
Before church this morning I brought Pat, an older brother who has come to faith in Christ later in life, to a nearby park for an opportunity to share the gospel. We found an Asian man (Jack, his Western name) who had come from China six years ago and speaks English well. He agreed to answer our questions and told about growing up in China in a non-religious family but within a Buddhist culture. He was a "Buddhist atheist" in the sense that it was a Buddhist view of God that he rejected. He agreed that he has a sense of right and wrong that he tries, but fails to follow. He was also concerned about keeping up appearances with both the government and among relatives, and seemed kind of relieved that in America he doesn't have to worry about that so much anymore. With little knowledge of both religions, his impression was that both Buddhism and Christianity teach of a final judgment and future in heaven or hell based on his good behavior. I used some of the commandments as a standard for him to test his behavior and he could clearly see that according to this standard he falls short. It was getting late so I switched over to sharing my own testimony of coming to faith in Christ. This is often a good way of summing up the faith without interruption, because no one can really question what someone else has personally experienced, so that's what I did and left some good info for Jack to read later.
Before church this morning I brought Pat, an older brother who has come to faith in Christ later in life, to a nearby park for an opportunity to share the gospel. We found an Asian man (Jack, his Western name) who had come from China six years ago and speaks English well. He agreed to answer our questions and told about growing up in China in a non-religious family but within a Buddhist culture. He was a "Buddhist atheist" in the sense that it was a Buddhist view of God that he rejected. He agreed that he has a sense of right and wrong that he tries, but fails to follow. He was also concerned about keeping up appearances with both the government and among relatives, and seemed kind of relieved that in America he doesn't have to worry about that so much anymore. With little knowledge of both religions, his impression was that both Buddhism and Christianity teach of a final judgment and future in heaven or hell based on his good behavior. I used some of the commandments as a standard for him to test his behavior and he could clearly see that according to this standard he falls short. It was getting late so I switched over to sharing my own testimony of coming to faith in Christ. This is often a good way of summing up the faith without interruption, because no one can really question what someone else has personally experienced, so that's what I did and left some good info for Jack to read later.
9/4/10 Suluv and Deval, early 20's
A relatively new believer at our church, Marcos, is a senior at IIT so I brought him to the IIT campus to share our faith. We waited at a giant outdoor chess board for two men (Suluv and Deval) to finish their game and then got their permission to ask about their beliefs. Both grew up Hindu but take a "wait and see" approach toward religion. A point that got their attention early in the conversation is that they know right from wrong but can't even live up to their own standards. Suluv said that he had learned from Hinduism that we live in the third of three eras in time that have grown progressively more evil, and that what was more evil in the first era, such as telling a lie, is no longer judged to be evil by today's standards. They also both seemed deeply concerned that we live in an evil society, where simply by participation we can't avoid supporting certain evils such as injustice or pollution. It was fairly easy to point out the hypocracy that they were using our corporate guilt to condone personal sin. After listening to their beliefs and having a good, logical exchange of ideas such as these, I went on to explain the gospel as clearly as I could. They listened with interest and at the end I told them that as a Christian I want to see them in heaven one day but that I also realize this would mean a whole change of thinking, from a circular world view in which reality is an endless cycle of history repeating itself, to a linear worldview, involving a final judgment and an eternity in heaven or hell. I gave them the booklet "Why Christianity" which explains how biblical Christianity is the only faith that deals with the problem of our sin that keeps us from a right relationship with God.
A relatively new believer at our church, Marcos, is a senior at IIT so I brought him to the IIT campus to share our faith. We waited at a giant outdoor chess board for two men (Suluv and Deval) to finish their game and then got their permission to ask about their beliefs. Both grew up Hindu but take a "wait and see" approach toward religion. A point that got their attention early in the conversation is that they know right from wrong but can't even live up to their own standards. Suluv said that he had learned from Hinduism that we live in the third of three eras in time that have grown progressively more evil, and that what was more evil in the first era, such as telling a lie, is no longer judged to be evil by today's standards. They also both seemed deeply concerned that we live in an evil society, where simply by participation we can't avoid supporting certain evils such as injustice or pollution. It was fairly easy to point out the hypocracy that they were using our corporate guilt to condone personal sin. After listening to their beliefs and having a good, logical exchange of ideas such as these, I went on to explain the gospel as clearly as I could. They listened with interest and at the end I told them that as a Christian I want to see them in heaven one day but that I also realize this would mean a whole change of thinking, from a circular world view in which reality is an endless cycle of history repeating itself, to a linear worldview, involving a final judgment and an eternity in heaven or hell. I gave them the booklet "Why Christianity" which explains how biblical Christianity is the only faith that deals with the problem of our sin that keeps us from a right relationship with God.
9/3/10 Anthony, about 30
Luke (church elder) and I took some time out of our busy schedules to share the gospel with whoever we might find and met Anthony, an African-American man who confidently told us he has been a Christian ever since he was four years old. I said "I want to be sure I'll see you in heaven, so how can you know you will go there after you die?" "I am very, very, very confident that my good deeds will outweigh my bad" was his answer. I asked what sort of good deeds it takes to erase our sins and he shared about some of his volunteer activities. "That seems impressive but the Bible says we ought to do good, (James 4:17) that is what we are here for." Anthony agreed and I asked "We are only doing what is expected but what about the bad we do?" Anthony didn't seem to think it was any big deal so I asked if I could give him a good person test (based on the Ten Commandments). He was so confident that, like most people, he readily agreed, and like most people, failed miserably - but he still thought his sin is no big deal. "God forgives me, as long as I'm really sorry" He took us inside a store to meet his foster mother, whom he had been waiting for, and told her about our conversation. When he left to pull the car up to the door I told her, knowing of her strong church background, that I was concerned about Anthony's trust in his good works rather than in Christ for salvation. When she told me that "our good deeds can cover a multitude of sins" I realized where his beliefs had come from.
Luke (church elder) and I took some time out of our busy schedules to share the gospel with whoever we might find and met Anthony, an African-American man who confidently told us he has been a Christian ever since he was four years old. I said "I want to be sure I'll see you in heaven, so how can you know you will go there after you die?" "I am very, very, very confident that my good deeds will outweigh my bad" was his answer. I asked what sort of good deeds it takes to erase our sins and he shared about some of his volunteer activities. "That seems impressive but the Bible says we ought to do good, (James 4:17) that is what we are here for." Anthony agreed and I asked "We are only doing what is expected but what about the bad we do?" Anthony didn't seem to think it was any big deal so I asked if I could give him a good person test (based on the Ten Commandments). He was so confident that, like most people, he readily agreed, and like most people, failed miserably - but he still thought his sin is no big deal. "God forgives me, as long as I'm really sorry" He took us inside a store to meet his foster mother, whom he had been waiting for, and told her about our conversation. When he left to pull the car up to the door I told her, knowing of her strong church background, that I was concerned about Anthony's trust in his good works rather than in Christ for salvation. When she told me that "our good deeds can cover a multitude of sins" I realized where his beliefs had come from.
9/2/10 Mike, 22
After work today Marcus, a brother in the Lord, and I went out to share the Gospel. We ran into a young man on the sidewalk, Mike, who told us he has been "saved" most of his life and attends a well-known evangelical church in our area. He talked the talk of the church subculture but I have run into too many church people who are false converts, so I had to ask a few key questions as to what he truly puts his faith in. Mike has attended a biblically sound church for years, been involved in its youth group, came from a Christian family, and even has brother who is now the youth pastor. I asked him what it means to be "saved" and he said "Well I haven't been saved lately. I don't think there's anything wrong with drinking and smoking and having fun with sex. Everyone at church does it, but at least I'm honest about it." He looks at others from church as hypocrites. He no longer reads the Bible, having stopped after his mother passed away and going through a time of being angry at God. I asked him specific questions about the Ten Commandments, and though he knew his guilt he felt like he would still go to heaven because he believes himself to be a good person who gives money to beggars and helps his friends and believes in God. We talked quite a while and I asked him not to take his salvation for granted, because based on what he had told me, I don't believe he is saved. "Examine yourselves to see whether you are in the faith; test yourselves..." 2 Corinthians 13:5
After work today Marcus, a brother in the Lord, and I went out to share the Gospel. We ran into a young man on the sidewalk, Mike, who told us he has been "saved" most of his life and attends a well-known evangelical church in our area. He talked the talk of the church subculture but I have run into too many church people who are false converts, so I had to ask a few key questions as to what he truly puts his faith in. Mike has attended a biblically sound church for years, been involved in its youth group, came from a Christian family, and even has brother who is now the youth pastor. I asked him what it means to be "saved" and he said "Well I haven't been saved lately. I don't think there's anything wrong with drinking and smoking and having fun with sex. Everyone at church does it, but at least I'm honest about it." He looks at others from church as hypocrites. He no longer reads the Bible, having stopped after his mother passed away and going through a time of being angry at God. I asked him specific questions about the Ten Commandments, and though he knew his guilt he felt like he would still go to heaven because he believes himself to be a good person who gives money to beggars and helps his friends and believes in God. We talked quite a while and I asked him not to take his salvation for granted, because based on what he had told me, I don't believe he is saved. "Examine yourselves to see whether you are in the faith; test yourselves..." 2 Corinthians 13:5
9/1/10 Frank, Jose, Israel - late teens
A few days ago I wrote about a man named Vido who seemed very calloused and hardened by sin. I assumed it took a lifetime to reach this state, but today I met two teens (Frank and Jose) whose utter disregard for others and the things of God would make Vido blush. The constant use of profanity and vulgarity, of joking references to sin and the use of blasphemy and mockery of God were hard to hear as I carried on a conversation with them. In addition, they had such short attention spans that, even though they asked some questions about God, they were not patient enough to listen for the answer. I had explained the bad news about "sin, righteousness and judgment" (John 16:8), but when they indifferently asked how they could be saved I replied "That's a secret you're not ready for" and for good reason - they had no sense of conviction yet and to tell them the good news of the cross and our hope of salvation in Jesus would have been like "throwing your pearls to the pigs" (Matt 7:6) Although much of what they had said was to try to shock the "church guy", I think when I said this they were shocked into wanting to hear more. Another young man that I've witnessed to before named Israel had joined the conversation and he was much more respectful, so I asked him to read out loud from the tracts I had given, and we had a good discussion about each point. He helped them to be more respectful, and they helped him vividly see the rebellion against God that our sin is.
A few days ago I wrote about a man named Vido who seemed very calloused and hardened by sin. I assumed it took a lifetime to reach this state, but today I met two teens (Frank and Jose) whose utter disregard for others and the things of God would make Vido blush. The constant use of profanity and vulgarity, of joking references to sin and the use of blasphemy and mockery of God were hard to hear as I carried on a conversation with them. In addition, they had such short attention spans that, even though they asked some questions about God, they were not patient enough to listen for the answer. I had explained the bad news about "sin, righteousness and judgment" (John 16:8), but when they indifferently asked how they could be saved I replied "That's a secret you're not ready for" and for good reason - they had no sense of conviction yet and to tell them the good news of the cross and our hope of salvation in Jesus would have been like "throwing your pearls to the pigs" (Matt 7:6) Although much of what they had said was to try to shock the "church guy", I think when I said this they were shocked into wanting to hear more. Another young man that I've witnessed to before named Israel had joined the conversation and he was much more respectful, so I asked him to read out loud from the tracts I had given, and we had a good discussion about each point. He helped them to be more respectful, and they helped him vividly see the rebellion against God that our sin is.
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