11/30/10 Ron, Jimmy, Don all about 50
Today I met Marcus after work, a fairly new believer at our church who has lived on the streets for almost 40 years. We headed to a nearby McDonalds in Bronzeville, an African American neighborhood near our church where Marcus hung out years ago. I told some older men at a table that I'm from a nearby church and asked if they'd answer a few questions. Ron claimed to be a member of a well-respected church and said he absolutely didn't want to talk about it. Jimmy said he is an atheist. Don joined the conversation later, claiming to be a Christian. All of them had much more in common than it seemed at first - they all believe God is "supposed" to forgive our sins - as often as we ask Him to - "unless you have done something really bad, like murder". Don seemed to have the most biblical background of the three - yet stated "ït doesn't matter what you have faith in - it could be Jesus, Allah, Buddha, or that building or that fence over there - as long as you believe." These three were all very streetwise and their beliefs seemed to be a mixed bag of various opinions they had picked up around the neighborhood. For almost an hour I just presented the gospel, putting out "brushfires" - various unbiblical beliefs - as the conversation progressed. At the end they started to get caught up in discussing politics and various conspiracy theories, but I summed up all we had discussed and we left. Marcus agreed - "If you had stayed to talk about other things, they'd forget what you had told them about the Lord, but you planted seeds of truth and then left. They won't forget that."
Gospel conversations from the streets and marketplace....
11/29/10 Sergio (again) mid 40's
Today after work I stopped in a residential area for a walk, and came across a middle aged man doing push-ups and stretching out before a run. I congratulated him for his ambition and he brightened up, recognizing me. "I remember you! You're Jeff, right?" We had a conversation across the street from my church one Sunday morning, (5/23/10) but I had to admit I didn't remember him. I asked what impact our conversation had on him. He happily told how he is turning his life around. He had given up a drug habit for a gambling habit, but recently gave them both up and has been attending his Catholic church again. He told how happy his wife and kids have been with the changes he has made. As we talked further, however, I could see he is still in the trap of thinking he can earn a place in heaven through good works, and I realize he has basically repented of his sin without the flip side of the same coin - belief in Jesus unto salvation. Repentance and belief can't exist without each other so I did all I could to help Sergio realize what was missing. He promised he would read more carefully the booklet I had given him a few months ago and start reading his Bible. I was glad to see the progress in his life and it was good to run into someone I had talked to months before.
Today after work I stopped in a residential area for a walk, and came across a middle aged man doing push-ups and stretching out before a run. I congratulated him for his ambition and he brightened up, recognizing me. "I remember you! You're Jeff, right?" We had a conversation across the street from my church one Sunday morning, (5/23/10) but I had to admit I didn't remember him. I asked what impact our conversation had on him. He happily told how he is turning his life around. He had given up a drug habit for a gambling habit, but recently gave them both up and has been attending his Catholic church again. He told how happy his wife and kids have been with the changes he has made. As we talked further, however, I could see he is still in the trap of thinking he can earn a place in heaven through good works, and I realize he has basically repented of his sin without the flip side of the same coin - belief in Jesus unto salvation. Repentance and belief can't exist without each other so I did all I could to help Sergio realize what was missing. He promised he would read more carefully the booklet I had given him a few months ago and start reading his Bible. I was glad to see the progress in his life and it was good to run into someone I had talked to months before.
11/28/10 Kudic, Steve , both about 20
Every person is different. This is a lesson I need to learn and relearn repeatedly. Today I was out jogging and stopped by the IIT campus, where I came across an engineering student from India named Kudic. He grew up in a Hindu household, but took no interest in the spiritual beliefs of his family nor in having a conversation about spiritual things with me. He focuses on his studies and doesn't believe in a higher power or feel motivated to think about such things. The best I could do was give him some general advice that just as he is preparing for a career, so eternity is worth preparing for too. A minute later I had a similar conversation with Steve, also an IIT student, but unlike Kudic he said he does believe there is some kind of life after this one and some kind of higher power out there, though he had no ideas about it. In hindsight I believe he would have been happy to discuss these questions further, but I treated him as if he had the same disinterest as Kudic and so I gave him the same sort of general advice about eternity. One of my goals in evangelism is to avoid the "cookie-cutter" approach and learn to genuinely listen to people individually and respond as I feel led by the Holy Spirit. I didn't do that today.
Every person is different. This is a lesson I need to learn and relearn repeatedly. Today I was out jogging and stopped by the IIT campus, where I came across an engineering student from India named Kudic. He grew up in a Hindu household, but took no interest in the spiritual beliefs of his family nor in having a conversation about spiritual things with me. He focuses on his studies and doesn't believe in a higher power or feel motivated to think about such things. The best I could do was give him some general advice that just as he is preparing for a career, so eternity is worth preparing for too. A minute later I had a similar conversation with Steve, also an IIT student, but unlike Kudic he said he does believe there is some kind of life after this one and some kind of higher power out there, though he had no ideas about it. In hindsight I believe he would have been happy to discuss these questions further, but I treated him as if he had the same disinterest as Kudic and so I gave him the same sort of general advice about eternity. One of my goals in evangelism is to avoid the "cookie-cutter" approach and learn to genuinely listen to people individually and respond as I feel led by the Holy Spirit. I didn't do that today.
11/27/10 Stephan and Kwame , 21, 16
I met John, from church, for a "fishing expedition". We went to a park where we ran into two African-American young men, Stephan and his younger brother Kwame. I asked about their beliefs and they came up with various theories about life after death, involving reincarnation or ghosts trying to complete unfinished work from their first life. Even though they grew up in a Baptist church, which Kwame still attends, they said they just don't take it very seriously, citing the hypocrisy of the pastor, the multitude of other beliefs, and their doubts about the divine inspiration of the Bible. Stephan affirmed that he believes in God but doesn't want to end up in hell "for believing the wrong thing". Many people think Christianity teaches that people will be punished primarily for their sin, not for wrong beliefs, which tends to make them think God is unreasonable and therefore unbelievable. I used an analogy about the lack of a parachute being blamed for death caused by jumping out of an airplane, when in reality such a death is caused by defying the law of gravity in the first place. In the same way we defy God's law, so for us it becomes the law of sin and death. (Romans 8:2) We must cast off the sin that entangles us and hold unto Jesus like we are holding on to a parachute. As I described all this both brothers were in agreement - intellectually - but I could see they were holding back so I asked "What is it that keeps you from putting your faith in Jesus today? Stephan was honest - "Would I have to give up smoking marijuanna? Is it sinful?" This started another discussion that let me know they were starting to count the cost of following Jesus.
I met John, from church, for a "fishing expedition". We went to a park where we ran into two African-American young men, Stephan and his younger brother Kwame. I asked about their beliefs and they came up with various theories about life after death, involving reincarnation or ghosts trying to complete unfinished work from their first life. Even though they grew up in a Baptist church, which Kwame still attends, they said they just don't take it very seriously, citing the hypocrisy of the pastor, the multitude of other beliefs, and their doubts about the divine inspiration of the Bible. Stephan affirmed that he believes in God but doesn't want to end up in hell "for believing the wrong thing". Many people think Christianity teaches that people will be punished primarily for their sin, not for wrong beliefs, which tends to make them think God is unreasonable and therefore unbelievable. I used an analogy about the lack of a parachute being blamed for death caused by jumping out of an airplane, when in reality such a death is caused by defying the law of gravity in the first place. In the same way we defy God's law, so for us it becomes the law of sin and death. (Romans 8:2) We must cast off the sin that entangles us and hold unto Jesus like we are holding on to a parachute. As I described all this both brothers were in agreement - intellectually - but I could see they were holding back so I asked "What is it that keeps you from putting your faith in Jesus today? Stephan was honest - "Would I have to give up smoking marijuanna? Is it sinful?" This started another discussion that let me know they were starting to count the cost of following Jesus.
11/26/10 Reggie , 59
I found an older African-American man, Reggie, sitting at a Starbucks reading his newspaper. He agreed to answer my questions and told me he grew up Baptist but stopped regular church attendance after he left his parent's home. He goes to a Catholic mass now and then - "Whenever I feel in the mood". He doesn't read the Bible. He believes in God and that He is good, yet Reggie is confused by all the bad in the world, mentioning first the death of his daughter, but also many other things like poverty, crime, and global warming. "On the other hand" he said, "there are good things going on in the world...Imagine me, a black man, and you, a white man, sitting here talking about the important things in life!" I asked about how he will be judged, and we both agreed that God won't compare people to one another because everyone is born with unique circumstances and gifts and talents, and it would be like trying to compare apples and oranges, but Reggie said "Well I think I'm 90% good, not perfect of course." I said that God has his own standard and after he compared himself to just a few of the 10 Commandments Reggie said, "Now I'm not so sure, maybe I'm 50/50". He had to meet his wife in a few minutes so I shared what I could of the gospel before we parted.
I found an older African-American man, Reggie, sitting at a Starbucks reading his newspaper. He agreed to answer my questions and told me he grew up Baptist but stopped regular church attendance after he left his parent's home. He goes to a Catholic mass now and then - "Whenever I feel in the mood". He doesn't read the Bible. He believes in God and that He is good, yet Reggie is confused by all the bad in the world, mentioning first the death of his daughter, but also many other things like poverty, crime, and global warming. "On the other hand" he said, "there are good things going on in the world...Imagine me, a black man, and you, a white man, sitting here talking about the important things in life!" I asked about how he will be judged, and we both agreed that God won't compare people to one another because everyone is born with unique circumstances and gifts and talents, and it would be like trying to compare apples and oranges, but Reggie said "Well I think I'm 90% good, not perfect of course." I said that God has his own standard and after he compared himself to just a few of the 10 Commandments Reggie said, "Now I'm not so sure, maybe I'm 50/50". He had to meet his wife in a few minutes so I shared what I could of the gospel before we parted.
11/24/10 Junior. about 45
It was cold and raining out after work so I stopped by a grocery store to look for someone with whom I could have a gospel conversation. I met Junior, a truck driver based in Canada but originally from Jamaica. He grew up in a Christian home and at first seemed to have a sound faith in Jesus, but he responded to my questions about his beliefs by telling several stories of times his prayers were answered when he prayed for specific signs of God's existence, or confirmation of other requests. These tests of God seem to have degenerated into the idea that his own positive thought will eventually make positive things happen and vice versa. I believe this in turn will result in reducing his idea of "God" to a non-personal force that can be predicted and manipulated. Later in our conversation, Junior confessed he is a compulsive gambler who has been losing his paycheck at the casino for years. About three months ago he gave it up after gambling away his children's birthday money, but already has a scheme to win the lottery that he said came to him through prayer. Though he is well aware he can't earn his way to heaven through good works, he needed to know that true faith and repentance will lead to good works. (Eph. 2:10) I challenged him to "Examine yourself to see if you are in the faith" (2 Cor.13:5) and told him that regular Bible reading and church attendance will help him stay focused on God. I prayed for him and gave him the booklet "Save Yourself Some Pain" on how to live the Christian life, which might help him to keep from making the same mistakes over again and having to learn all his lessons the hard way.
It was cold and raining out after work so I stopped by a grocery store to look for someone with whom I could have a gospel conversation. I met Junior, a truck driver based in Canada but originally from Jamaica. He grew up in a Christian home and at first seemed to have a sound faith in Jesus, but he responded to my questions about his beliefs by telling several stories of times his prayers were answered when he prayed for specific signs of God's existence, or confirmation of other requests. These tests of God seem to have degenerated into the idea that his own positive thought will eventually make positive things happen and vice versa. I believe this in turn will result in reducing his idea of "God" to a non-personal force that can be predicted and manipulated. Later in our conversation, Junior confessed he is a compulsive gambler who has been losing his paycheck at the casino for years. About three months ago he gave it up after gambling away his children's birthday money, but already has a scheme to win the lottery that he said came to him through prayer. Though he is well aware he can't earn his way to heaven through good works, he needed to know that true faith and repentance will lead to good works. (Eph. 2:10) I challenged him to "Examine yourself to see if you are in the faith" (2 Cor.13:5) and told him that regular Bible reading and church attendance will help him stay focused on God. I prayed for him and gave him the booklet "Save Yourself Some Pain" on how to live the Christian life, which might help him to keep from making the same mistakes over again and having to learn all his lessons the hard way.
11/23/10 Steve, about 30
On my way home after work I stopped at a Burger King and found an Asian man named Steven, enjoying his food and listening to music on his earbuds. He took them off to answer my questions, and I found out he is a musician and music producer, whose self-proclaimed purpose for existence is to exercise his creativity in music. He has no interest or belief in spiritual things or any sort of afterlife. If unbelievers could be put on a scale of 1 to 10, I feel like Steve would be at a "1" because of his apathy and dismissal of the things of God, so I felt that I needed to focus just on God's existence. To try to take him further down the scale - to talk about sin and judgment for example - would have shut down the conversation and given Steve an excuse to continue in unbelief. This is not always the case with people like this, but I just felt strongly that this was all the further I could take him. I talked about how if God exists, as our creator and the maker of physical laws He would be outside the realm of scientific knowledge and impossible for us to discover on our own. We can only know Him by what He chooses to reveal about himself, through his creation but also through others. "Who knows, maybe God sent me here to talk to you today, to let you know that He exists and cares about you". Limiting a conversation like this can and should make me question whether it was the right thing to do - was it limited by the Holy Spirit or the devil?
On my way home after work I stopped at a Burger King and found an Asian man named Steven, enjoying his food and listening to music on his earbuds. He took them off to answer my questions, and I found out he is a musician and music producer, whose self-proclaimed purpose for existence is to exercise his creativity in music. He has no interest or belief in spiritual things or any sort of afterlife. If unbelievers could be put on a scale of 1 to 10, I feel like Steve would be at a "1" because of his apathy and dismissal of the things of God, so I felt that I needed to focus just on God's existence. To try to take him further down the scale - to talk about sin and judgment for example - would have shut down the conversation and given Steve an excuse to continue in unbelief. This is not always the case with people like this, but I just felt strongly that this was all the further I could take him. I talked about how if God exists, as our creator and the maker of physical laws He would be outside the realm of scientific knowledge and impossible for us to discover on our own. We can only know Him by what He chooses to reveal about himself, through his creation but also through others. "Who knows, maybe God sent me here to talk to you today, to let you know that He exists and cares about you". Limiting a conversation like this can and should make me question whether it was the right thing to do - was it limited by the Holy Spirit or the devil?
11/22/10 Jaime, about 45
At the grocery store, I gave Jaime, a fellow shopper, a Spanish MDB and used it to start a witnessing conversation, which was limited because of my poor Espanol. Jaime believes in God and believes he will go to heaven because of his goodness. "How can you be sure?" I asked. "I'm a good worker, a good father and family man" he said. The problem is that his definition of "good" is based on man's standard, not God's. Jesus said "You must be perfect, even as my heavenly Father is perfect". (Matt 5:48) I began to explain God's standard according to his law, but the grocery store is a hard place to work through language difficulties. I believe I told him enough to get him curious about the info I gave him.
At the grocery store, I gave Jaime, a fellow shopper, a Spanish MDB and used it to start a witnessing conversation, which was limited because of my poor Espanol. Jaime believes in God and believes he will go to heaven because of his goodness. "How can you be sure?" I asked. "I'm a good worker, a good father and family man" he said. The problem is that his definition of "good" is based on man's standard, not God's. Jesus said "You must be perfect, even as my heavenly Father is perfect". (Matt 5:48) I began to explain God's standard according to his law, but the grocery store is a hard place to work through language difficulties. I believe I told him enough to get him curious about the info I gave him.
11/21/10 Taylor and his friend, about 20
While out jogging I came across a college film class working on a film project. I talked to two students who were assigned to redirect traffic at the end of the street, asking what they thought about life after death. One of them, Taylor, smiled confidently at the question and told of his belief in God, heaven and hell. He said he is a Christian and tried to explain the gospel but without getting too specific, even leaving Jesus out of his explanation, so I asked some pointed questions to help him explain it more clearly. Before they had to focus back on their project, I heard the essentials of the gospel. So did his friend.
While out jogging I came across a college film class working on a film project. I talked to two students who were assigned to redirect traffic at the end of the street, asking what they thought about life after death. One of them, Taylor, smiled confidently at the question and told of his belief in God, heaven and hell. He said he is a Christian and tried to explain the gospel but without getting too specific, even leaving Jesus out of his explanation, so I asked some pointed questions to help him explain it more clearly. Before they had to focus back on their project, I heard the essentials of the gospel. So did his friend.
11/20/10 Eddie and Louis, both about 20
How much of Christianity involves doing things even when we don't "feel like it"? Do you always "feel like" prayer, readiing the Bible, going to church? Is sharing the gospel any different? After a long, busy day of trying to fix my car and celebrating a family birthday, I didn't have time to reach my daily goal of having at least one witnessing conversation until late at night, and by then I didn't "feel like it". It would be so easy to just forget about it, but I had to run an errand to get some groceries, and God took away my excuses. I'm glad He did, because I found Eddie and Louis, two college students on their Thanksgiving break, having some coffee in the dining area. They trust in their own goodness for salvation but were very open to the gospel and received it gladly, at least on the level of mental ascent. Looking back, as always, I was glad I was obedient, even if I wasn't enthusiastic to begin with. Even Paul said " But what does it matter? The important thing is that in every way, whether from false motives or true, Christ is preached. And because of this I rejoice." Philippians 1:18
How much of Christianity involves doing things even when we don't "feel like it"? Do you always "feel like" prayer, readiing the Bible, going to church? Is sharing the gospel any different? After a long, busy day of trying to fix my car and celebrating a family birthday, I didn't have time to reach my daily goal of having at least one witnessing conversation until late at night, and by then I didn't "feel like it". It would be so easy to just forget about it, but I had to run an errand to get some groceries, and God took away my excuses. I'm glad He did, because I found Eddie and Louis, two college students on their Thanksgiving break, having some coffee in the dining area. They trust in their own goodness for salvation but were very open to the gospel and received it gladly, at least on the level of mental ascent. Looking back, as always, I was glad I was obedient, even if I wasn't enthusiastic to begin with. Even Paul said " But what does it matter? The important thing is that in every way, whether from false motives or true, Christ is preached. And because of this I rejoice." Philippians 1:18
11/19/10 Chris, 48
Today I was outside trying to fix my car when Chris (not real name), an old friend I hadn't seen in years, came by to say hello. Years ago he had been homeless because of drug addiction, and I had given him day jobs on occasion to help him earn an honest wage. I had tried to help teach him biblical truths and how to live for God from time to time back then, but he went on to get caught robbing a house and has been in prison the last four years. I shared about the gospel and the Christian life but didn't stress God's law and justice, just His love and forgiveness. So today I decided to share the whole gospel - both law and grace. I asked Chris what would happen if he died now, and he told me he believes he would go to hell. "Why is that?" I asked. "Well I think I need to get my act together - get a job, stay off drugs, probably start going to church...” It was obvious that his impression of Christianity was that it is about striving to be good enough to earn heaven. Because I told about the savior but hadn't stressed Chris' need to be saved, I am guilty of contributing to his false belief in good works, so I began to set the record straight. Today Chris heard of both his condemnation based on God's law and salvation based on Christ. I described how, even if he perfectly followed God's law for the rest of his life, he would still be guilty of his past sins without the forgiveness that comes through faith in Christ. I think he is preoccupied with starting a new life now that he is out of prison and may need to hear it many more times, but hopefully he's moving in the right direction.
Today I was outside trying to fix my car when Chris (not real name), an old friend I hadn't seen in years, came by to say hello. Years ago he had been homeless because of drug addiction, and I had given him day jobs on occasion to help him earn an honest wage. I had tried to help teach him biblical truths and how to live for God from time to time back then, but he went on to get caught robbing a house and has been in prison the last four years. I shared about the gospel and the Christian life but didn't stress God's law and justice, just His love and forgiveness. So today I decided to share the whole gospel - both law and grace. I asked Chris what would happen if he died now, and he told me he believes he would go to hell. "Why is that?" I asked. "Well I think I need to get my act together - get a job, stay off drugs, probably start going to church...” It was obvious that his impression of Christianity was that it is about striving to be good enough to earn heaven. Because I told about the savior but hadn't stressed Chris' need to be saved, I am guilty of contributing to his false belief in good works, so I began to set the record straight. Today Chris heard of both his condemnation based on God's law and salvation based on Christ. I described how, even if he perfectly followed God's law for the rest of his life, he would still be guilty of his past sins without the forgiveness that comes through faith in Christ. I think he is preoccupied with starting a new life now that he is out of prison and may need to hear it many more times, but hopefully he's moving in the right direction.
11/18/10 Ashim, about 25
After attending a wake for the grandmother of one of her students, Anne (my wife) and I stopped by the IIT student center, where I struck up a witnessing conversation with Ashim, an electrical engineering grad student from India. He had grown up in a Muslim home but has also looked into Hinduism and Christianity and now considers himself an agnostic. He said he was content to take a "wait and see" approach to religion, so I talked about the importance of taking eternity seriously. I pointed out that Ashim is spending a lot of time preparing for his career of some 30 or 40 years, but what is he doing in preparation for eternity? He graciously listened to my typical law and grace gospel message, which I believe explains things pretty clearly, but in the end he said, "You know, we're looking for the same thing. You've found it, but I'm still looking". This is just another reminder for me not to trust in my own efforts, but that the battle belongs to the Lord. (2 Chronicles 20:15)
After attending a wake for the grandmother of one of her students, Anne (my wife) and I stopped by the IIT student center, where I struck up a witnessing conversation with Ashim, an electrical engineering grad student from India. He had grown up in a Muslim home but has also looked into Hinduism and Christianity and now considers himself an agnostic. He said he was content to take a "wait and see" approach to religion, so I talked about the importance of taking eternity seriously. I pointed out that Ashim is spending a lot of time preparing for his career of some 30 or 40 years, but what is he doing in preparation for eternity? He graciously listened to my typical law and grace gospel message, which I believe explains things pretty clearly, but in the end he said, "You know, we're looking for the same thing. You've found it, but I'm still looking". This is just another reminder for me not to trust in my own efforts, but that the battle belongs to the Lord. (2 Chronicles 20:15)
11/17/10 Joel, about 20
This afternoon I met with Brad, from my church, and we went over to a nearby college campus to initiate a gospel conversation. We talked to Joel, asking about his spiritual beliefs, and he quickly asserted that he is a Christian who is active in the Inter-Varsity Christian fellowship there on campus. He grew up Lutheran, was active in the youth group, but only recently has he taken ownership of his faith now that he lives away from home. He believes he will go to heaven, but when asked about the basis for this belief he kept referring to his own goodness: "Though I'm not perfect, I believe God knows my heart, and He's a God of love so I'm pretty sure I'll go to heaven." I asked Joel the same questions about the Ten Commandments that I ask unbelievers and people of other religions; in the end if Joel is trusting in his goodness to save him he is no different than any other non-believer. I used God's Law to help him personalize his sin. "If you never lied again the rest of your life, would you still be a liar?" He had to agree that he would and I could see the guilt written on his face. He began to protest that God was loving and forgiving, maybe wondering what kind of "Christian" I am, but the law was doing its job, leading him to Christ, showing his need for forgiveness. Now I could tell him of Jesus and the cross and resurrection which he had heard many times before, but with the help of the law it was making a lot more sense to him.
This afternoon I met with Brad, from my church, and we went over to a nearby college campus to initiate a gospel conversation. We talked to Joel, asking about his spiritual beliefs, and he quickly asserted that he is a Christian who is active in the Inter-Varsity Christian fellowship there on campus. He grew up Lutheran, was active in the youth group, but only recently has he taken ownership of his faith now that he lives away from home. He believes he will go to heaven, but when asked about the basis for this belief he kept referring to his own goodness: "Though I'm not perfect, I believe God knows my heart, and He's a God of love so I'm pretty sure I'll go to heaven." I asked Joel the same questions about the Ten Commandments that I ask unbelievers and people of other religions; in the end if Joel is trusting in his goodness to save him he is no different than any other non-believer. I used God's Law to help him personalize his sin. "If you never lied again the rest of your life, would you still be a liar?" He had to agree that he would and I could see the guilt written on his face. He began to protest that God was loving and forgiving, maybe wondering what kind of "Christian" I am, but the law was doing its job, leading him to Christ, showing his need for forgiveness. Now I could tell him of Jesus and the cross and resurrection which he had heard many times before, but with the help of the law it was making a lot more sense to him.
11/16/10 Gene, about 22
When sharing our faith with someone with a post-modern, post- Christian mindset who rejects belief in "God", we must first help them understand more about just what "God" it is that they are rejecting. Today while out jogging, I met an IIT physics student named Gene who quickly displayed many traits of post moderns - a lack of belief in absolute truth, a constant questioning of the basic meanings of words, a lack of meaning in life or any sort of authority to which he is accountable to, and Biblical illiteracy. He even questioned his own existence, taking great pride in his own enlightened acceptance of the meaninglessness of this world. He claims he does not believe in the Judeo-Christian God, yet his biblical illiteracy keeps him from really understanding just what it is he rejects. After we talked quite a while, I asked 2 things: 1.) does he believe the existence of God as described in the Bible is possible (yes) and 2.) Does he know how he would be judged by that God? Like most people, he believes he is a very good person, but the idea of being accountable to God seemed foreign to him. In fact, he said he would judge God, blaming Him for the mess this world is in. I talked about some of the specific commandments God uses as his standard of judgment, and how because he is without excuse he would be found guilty of breaking them because he has a God-given conscience that tells him right from wrong. Gene never had a conversation like this with his friends or other students, and thanked me as I left. Though Gene gave me no outward reason to claim success, I believe God is at work in his life because some seeds of truth have been planted.
When sharing our faith with someone with a post-modern, post- Christian mindset who rejects belief in "God", we must first help them understand more about just what "God" it is that they are rejecting. Today while out jogging, I met an IIT physics student named Gene who quickly displayed many traits of post moderns - a lack of belief in absolute truth, a constant questioning of the basic meanings of words, a lack of meaning in life or any sort of authority to which he is accountable to, and Biblical illiteracy. He even questioned his own existence, taking great pride in his own enlightened acceptance of the meaninglessness of this world. He claims he does not believe in the Judeo-Christian God, yet his biblical illiteracy keeps him from really understanding just what it is he rejects. After we talked quite a while, I asked 2 things: 1.) does he believe the existence of God as described in the Bible is possible (yes) and 2.) Does he know how he would be judged by that God? Like most people, he believes he is a very good person, but the idea of being accountable to God seemed foreign to him. In fact, he said he would judge God, blaming Him for the mess this world is in. I talked about some of the specific commandments God uses as his standard of judgment, and how because he is without excuse he would be found guilty of breaking them because he has a God-given conscience that tells him right from wrong. Gene never had a conversation like this with his friends or other students, and thanked me as I left. Though Gene gave me no outward reason to claim success, I believe God is at work in his life because some seeds of truth have been planted.
11/15/10 Robert, about 35
During a conversation with a young man named Brandon and his mother outside a store I became aware of another man - Robert - listening and patiently waiting for us to finish talking. When we were done he asked if I had any change to spare. "I'm not giving money but I can give you some good advice" I said. He stayed to talk as I spoke of the law and grace of the gospel. He claims to trust in Jesus as his savior, but knows he isn't being faithful, so being careful not to give him false assurance of salvation - since only God truly knows his heart, I talked about how God doesn't leave Christians when they sin, but rather the Holy Spirit witihin is grieved. (Eph 4:30) He agreed that this is what he feels has been happening - seeming to forget his request for money - and felt like maybe God was trying to get his attention.
During a conversation with a young man named Brandon and his mother outside a store I became aware of another man - Robert - listening and patiently waiting for us to finish talking. When we were done he asked if I had any change to spare. "I'm not giving money but I can give you some good advice" I said. He stayed to talk as I spoke of the law and grace of the gospel. He claims to trust in Jesus as his savior, but knows he isn't being faithful, so being careful not to give him false assurance of salvation - since only God truly knows his heart, I talked about how God doesn't leave Christians when they sin, but rather the Holy Spirit witihin is grieved. (Eph 4:30) He agreed that this is what he feels has been happening - seeming to forget his request for money - and felt like maybe God was trying to get his attention.
11/14/10 Maurice , about 30
Two years ago I would never have done this. I was much too worried about my self image, unconcerned about what God says about me and far too concerned with what other people think. Even among most Christians I have discovered there is no glory in witnessing, so if its admiration I'm looking for, this isn't the way to find it. I went to the nearest Starbucks, to people working on laptops, and asked if they had a few minutes to answer some questions. Our culture says this is taboo, but the way I see it, these people are adults and they can say no if they want to - and some did. The first man was willing to talk until I told him my questions were about his spiritual beliefs. The second man said he is a Muslim and is not interested. A young lady said she was busy studying for a big exam. "That's okay", I said, "Thanks anyway". The fourth man - Maurice - lost in his headphones and hard at work on his laptop, was willing, and we had a long, interesting conversation. Maurice grew up in Chicago's Robert Taylor housing projects and is now an accountant. He claimed to have no religious background but had a wide variety of questions about the nature of God's existence and his purposes for creating us. His bottom line - after I had told him of both God's terrible wrath and tremendous love - "If I have to believe in a God who holds me accountable and will punish me for disobeying him, then I'll take my chances and go to hell if its all true." This was hard for me to hear, but I have to remind myself that God isn't finished with him yet.
Two years ago I would never have done this. I was much too worried about my self image, unconcerned about what God says about me and far too concerned with what other people think. Even among most Christians I have discovered there is no glory in witnessing, so if its admiration I'm looking for, this isn't the way to find it. I went to the nearest Starbucks, to people working on laptops, and asked if they had a few minutes to answer some questions. Our culture says this is taboo, but the way I see it, these people are adults and they can say no if they want to - and some did. The first man was willing to talk until I told him my questions were about his spiritual beliefs. The second man said he is a Muslim and is not interested. A young lady said she was busy studying for a big exam. "That's okay", I said, "Thanks anyway". The fourth man - Maurice - lost in his headphones and hard at work on his laptop, was willing, and we had a long, interesting conversation. Maurice grew up in Chicago's Robert Taylor housing projects and is now an accountant. He claimed to have no religious background but had a wide variety of questions about the nature of God's existence and his purposes for creating us. His bottom line - after I had told him of both God's terrible wrath and tremendous love - "If I have to believe in a God who holds me accountable and will punish me for disobeying him, then I'll take my chances and go to hell if its all true." This was hard for me to hear, but I have to remind myself that God isn't finished with him yet.
11/13/10 Felicia, Steve, Jose, and others
While standing in the deli line at the grocery store, I decided to share some gospel truth with the next person who joined the line. It turned out to be a young African-American woman named Felicia. I gave her a MDB gospel tract, and she said she believes in God and that she will go to heaven because, as she put it, "I've never really done anything wrong" She doesn't attend church but did as a child, so I appealed to some of her prior knowledge: "Well I'm sure you know you're not perfect" "Right" "So the question isn't whether you are good, but are you good enough" "That's right" Now compared to other people, you can always think of someone worse than yourself, but God has his own standards - the Ten Commandments." She again agreed. "How do you compare to God's standard? If you're like me, you know you haven't kept his commandments. I deserve punishment, but that's why Jesus came - for sinners like me, not for 'good' people"... This was the same kind of short conversation I had with a dozen people while grocery shopping - not deep or long but something you and I can do in the course of our daily activities. Every one of the people I talked to today initially stated they believe they will go to heaven because they are good people. Whether they are confused Christians or unbelievers, they can all be blessed by a friendly reminder of our need for Christ crucified. (1 Cor. 1:23)
While standing in the deli line at the grocery store, I decided to share some gospel truth with the next person who joined the line. It turned out to be a young African-American woman named Felicia. I gave her a MDB gospel tract, and she said she believes in God and that she will go to heaven because, as she put it, "I've never really done anything wrong" She doesn't attend church but did as a child, so I appealed to some of her prior knowledge: "Well I'm sure you know you're not perfect" "Right" "So the question isn't whether you are good, but are you good enough" "That's right" Now compared to other people, you can always think of someone worse than yourself, but God has his own standards - the Ten Commandments." She again agreed. "How do you compare to God's standard? If you're like me, you know you haven't kept his commandments. I deserve punishment, but that's why Jesus came - for sinners like me, not for 'good' people"... This was the same kind of short conversation I had with a dozen people while grocery shopping - not deep or long but something you and I can do in the course of our daily activities. Every one of the people I talked to today initially stated they believe they will go to heaven because they are good people. Whether they are confused Christians or unbelievers, they can all be blessed by a friendly reminder of our need for Christ crucified. (1 Cor. 1:23)
11/12/10 Andy, 17
While out for a jog I crossed the street to talk to a young man walking down the sidewalk. I told him I'm from a nearby church and asked if he would answer a few questions. He was guarded at first, but warmed up to the conversation and asked me a few questions after he realized I was truly listening to his answers and not just forcing my opinions on him. Andy said he doubts God's existence but has some friends and family members, mostly Catholic, trying to convince him to believe. I felt led - hopefully by the Holy Spirit - to emphasize two points: 1.) That as a young person who may or may not have his whole life before him, the more he rejects faith in God the harder it will be to have faith as he grows older, for his heart will become calloused; and 2.) We talked a lot about how to read the Bible and what to look for, and I emphasized that if he wants to know what God is like, he should look to the life and teachings of Jesus, the image of the invisible God. Andy cheerfully received my advice and concern as I looked him in the eye and told him "I want to see you in heaven one day". I truly hope we all will.
While out for a jog I crossed the street to talk to a young man walking down the sidewalk. I told him I'm from a nearby church and asked if he would answer a few questions. He was guarded at first, but warmed up to the conversation and asked me a few questions after he realized I was truly listening to his answers and not just forcing my opinions on him. Andy said he doubts God's existence but has some friends and family members, mostly Catholic, trying to convince him to believe. I felt led - hopefully by the Holy Spirit - to emphasize two points: 1.) That as a young person who may or may not have his whole life before him, the more he rejects faith in God the harder it will be to have faith as he grows older, for his heart will become calloused; and 2.) We talked a lot about how to read the Bible and what to look for, and I emphasized that if he wants to know what God is like, he should look to the life and teachings of Jesus, the image of the invisible God. Andy cheerfully received my advice and concern as I looked him in the eye and told him "I want to see you in heaven one day". I truly hope we all will.
11/11/10 Jeff, 42
Please pray for my friend Jeff who has both liver and pancreatic cancer. The doctors have given up on chemotherapy or any sort of treatment and are now focusing on reducing the pain and hospice care. Jeff began to visit our church half a year ago and has slowly been growing in his understanding of the gospel. I've shared God's plan of salvation with him clearly several times, and others have as well. I did once again at the hospital today, with mixed feelings. In a way, of course, it seems so much more critical that he comes to a right relationship with God as he faces the probability of dying soon. But it was tempting to feel that talking about eternity is to admit defeat or maybe even a lack of faith that God will heal him here and now. I said a few things that helped put it in perspective and want to share here for others in the same situation. First, I expressed hope for healing of course but also reminded him that even if he is healed of his cancer, he will still die one day. Life isn't guaranteed - he could die in an accident on his way home from the hospital. So whether he is healed from this present disease or not, it is absolutely crucial that he come to Christ and be saved now, not waiting any longer. Second, I reminded him of what we are saved from - God's righteous wrath over our rebellion against Him. For any one of us to be blessed with another day of life is an act of loving mercy on God's part - something none of us deserve. Jeff's extended terminal illness is a blessing in one way - it gives him time to repent and believe and be saved. Jeff feels he must try to become a good person and try to prove his repentence in order to be forgiven. Please pray that he will trust in Christ's work, completed on the cross, and not feel he has to add anything to it to be saved.
Please pray for my friend Jeff who has both liver and pancreatic cancer. The doctors have given up on chemotherapy or any sort of treatment and are now focusing on reducing the pain and hospice care. Jeff began to visit our church half a year ago and has slowly been growing in his understanding of the gospel. I've shared God's plan of salvation with him clearly several times, and others have as well. I did once again at the hospital today, with mixed feelings. In a way, of course, it seems so much more critical that he comes to a right relationship with God as he faces the probability of dying soon. But it was tempting to feel that talking about eternity is to admit defeat or maybe even a lack of faith that God will heal him here and now. I said a few things that helped put it in perspective and want to share here for others in the same situation. First, I expressed hope for healing of course but also reminded him that even if he is healed of his cancer, he will still die one day. Life isn't guaranteed - he could die in an accident on his way home from the hospital. So whether he is healed from this present disease or not, it is absolutely crucial that he come to Christ and be saved now, not waiting any longer. Second, I reminded him of what we are saved from - God's righteous wrath over our rebellion against Him. For any one of us to be blessed with another day of life is an act of loving mercy on God's part - something none of us deserve. Jeff's extended terminal illness is a blessing in one way - it gives him time to repent and believe and be saved. Jeff feels he must try to become a good person and try to prove his repentence in order to be forgiven. Please pray that he will trust in Christ's work, completed on the cross, and not feel he has to add anything to it to be saved.
11/10/10 Chris, about 28
I stopped a bicyclist (Chris) on the sidewalk by saying "Hey! I have a question for you!" He grew up in the U.S.Virgin Islands in a Rastifarian household, but abandoned these beliefs because he refused to worship its founder, Haile Selassie I of Ethiopia. "I refuse to be beholden to anyone" he explained, and this also helped me see why he also rejects the idea of a Creator God who has rules he must follow. Chris seemed like a real free spirit, with many questions and open to consider new ideas about religion. He favors Buddhism, but had many questions about the Bible and Christianity, not for the purpose of trying to disprove it in order to avoid being held accountable, but because he really wanted to know more about it. Even though Chris hadn't changed his mind about God's existence, I was able to share the gospel clearly for 3 reasons: 1.) I was able to share what God reveals about himself in the Bible on the basis of the possibility that it is true, not because I had proven it as fact; 2.) I was able to continue talking about God on this same basis - acknowledging that Chris doesn't necessarily believe what I am saying but that he wants to know more about it nonetheless; 3.) I was able to share the gospel clearly in several ways - directly teaching it, sharing my own testimony, sharing why I share what I believe ("If such and such is true and our eternal fate is in question, then what kind of person would I be to withhold it from anyone?") We talked for almost an hour and he agreed that what I was saying made a lot of sense. I pray his heart will catch up to what his mind agrees to.
I stopped a bicyclist (Chris) on the sidewalk by saying "Hey! I have a question for you!" He grew up in the U.S.Virgin Islands in a Rastifarian household, but abandoned these beliefs because he refused to worship its founder, Haile Selassie I of Ethiopia. "I refuse to be beholden to anyone" he explained, and this also helped me see why he also rejects the idea of a Creator God who has rules he must follow. Chris seemed like a real free spirit, with many questions and open to consider new ideas about religion. He favors Buddhism, but had many questions about the Bible and Christianity, not for the purpose of trying to disprove it in order to avoid being held accountable, but because he really wanted to know more about it. Even though Chris hadn't changed his mind about God's existence, I was able to share the gospel clearly for 3 reasons: 1.) I was able to share what God reveals about himself in the Bible on the basis of the possibility that it is true, not because I had proven it as fact; 2.) I was able to continue talking about God on this same basis - acknowledging that Chris doesn't necessarily believe what I am saying but that he wants to know more about it nonetheless; 3.) I was able to share the gospel clearly in several ways - directly teaching it, sharing my own testimony, sharing why I share what I believe ("If such and such is true and our eternal fate is in question, then what kind of person would I be to withhold it from anyone?") We talked for almost an hour and he agreed that what I was saying made a lot of sense. I pray his heart will catch up to what his mind agrees to.
11/9/10 Luis, 55
After praying that God would allow me to be a blessing to someone at the park today, I met Luis, who was sitting at a picnic table, and asked if he would answer some questions about his beliefs. He did, and I found him to be ignorant of the things of God, but sincere in wanting to know more. He grew up Catholic and believes in God, but said all the different opinions about the life to come just makes him feel confused. I agreed, saying "If you ask a 100 people, you'll get a hundred different opinions, right? But the only opinion that matters is God's opinion and what He has revealed about himself". I explained that the Bible is where God chose to reveal Himself to us, and Luis agreed but said it was too hard to read. He had been bogged down in all the genealogies found in Genesis. I spent some time giving some practical advice on how to read the Bible as a beginner, and went on to tell him about God's law and grace, getting the impression he had never heard it put that way before. I gave him a Gospel of John in Spanish, his own language, and prayed for God''s blessing upon his work, family and especially that he could have a right standing with God through faith in Jesus.Ending the conversation with a prayer of blessing for Luis seemed so natural after having prayed that I could be a blessing to him before we even met.
After praying that God would allow me to be a blessing to someone at the park today, I met Luis, who was sitting at a picnic table, and asked if he would answer some questions about his beliefs. He did, and I found him to be ignorant of the things of God, but sincere in wanting to know more. He grew up Catholic and believes in God, but said all the different opinions about the life to come just makes him feel confused. I agreed, saying "If you ask a 100 people, you'll get a hundred different opinions, right? But the only opinion that matters is God's opinion and what He has revealed about himself". I explained that the Bible is where God chose to reveal Himself to us, and Luis agreed but said it was too hard to read. He had been bogged down in all the genealogies found in Genesis. I spent some time giving some practical advice on how to read the Bible as a beginner, and went on to tell him about God's law and grace, getting the impression he had never heard it put that way before. I gave him a Gospel of John in Spanish, his own language, and prayed for God''s blessing upon his work, family and especially that he could have a right standing with God through faith in Jesus.Ending the conversation with a prayer of blessing for Luis seemed so natural after having prayed that I could be a blessing to him before we even met.
11/8/10 Abraham, about 40
I've been doing some traveling away from Chicago and was on a sidewalk in downtown Minneapolis, praying that I could be a blessing to someone, when I met an African immigrant from Somalia named Abraham. I had used a million dollar bill gospel tract (MDB) as a conversation starter and he said that he grew up in the "Optic" church in Somalia, (not "Coptic" as I was familiar with) and occasionally attends church now that he lives in Minneapolis. He said he believes he will go to heaven because he is a good person, but I'm learning that not everyone who says this only have that misled trust in their good works for salvation. My further questions to Abraham indicated that he knows he could never be good enough, that faith in Christ is his only hope and that his good works are only a result of that faith. He seemed to me to be a true believer who confuses the "cause and effects" of salvation and good works. This is a shame because, while people like this may already be saved, they can be very confusing to other people whom they try to explain the gospel to. We continued to talk and I advised him to regularly attend church, that not only is he missing out on the fellowship God intends for him but he is denying others of the same. I encouraged him to read his Bible daily, that as our spiritual food its best to partake a little every day rather than a lot all at once. He received my admonishments gladly and thankfully, and we both believed God may have orchestrated what may appear to some to be a random conversation on the sidewalk.
I've been doing some traveling away from Chicago and was on a sidewalk in downtown Minneapolis, praying that I could be a blessing to someone, when I met an African immigrant from Somalia named Abraham. I had used a million dollar bill gospel tract (MDB) as a conversation starter and he said that he grew up in the "Optic" church in Somalia, (not "Coptic" as I was familiar with) and occasionally attends church now that he lives in Minneapolis. He said he believes he will go to heaven because he is a good person, but I'm learning that not everyone who says this only have that misled trust in their good works for salvation. My further questions to Abraham indicated that he knows he could never be good enough, that faith in Christ is his only hope and that his good works are only a result of that faith. He seemed to me to be a true believer who confuses the "cause and effects" of salvation and good works. This is a shame because, while people like this may already be saved, they can be very confusing to other people whom they try to explain the gospel to. We continued to talk and I advised him to regularly attend church, that not only is he missing out on the fellowship God intends for him but he is denying others of the same. I encouraged him to read his Bible daily, that as our spiritual food its best to partake a little every day rather than a lot all at once. He received my admonishments gladly and thankfully, and we both believed God may have orchestrated what may appear to some to be a random conversation on the sidewalk.
11/5/10 Greg, about 25
At a truckstop somewhere in Wisconsin, I had a two minute talk with a young man (Greg) at a gas pump that, God willing, could have an eternal impact in his life. Using a MDB as a springboard into talking about eternal things, I asked if he believes in heaven and thinks he will go there. "If i can stop drinkin' so much" he said. I asked about his church background, found out he is Catholic, and asked "If we could get to heaven by being good people, then why did Jesus die on the cross?" He shrugged. I continued - "He died for sinners like me and you, right? We can't ever earn our way to heaven by being good enough, but doing good is a result of what God has done to save us" That's it. Just a quick friendly reminder of the gospel to a man who already feels he can't make it on his own. Maybe God will use that
At a truckstop somewhere in Wisconsin, I had a two minute talk with a young man (Greg) at a gas pump that, God willing, could have an eternal impact in his life. Using a MDB as a springboard into talking about eternal things, I asked if he believes in heaven and thinks he will go there. "If i can stop drinkin' so much" he said. I asked about his church background, found out he is Catholic, and asked "If we could get to heaven by being good people, then why did Jesus die on the cross?" He shrugged. I continued - "He died for sinners like me and you, right? We can't ever earn our way to heaven by being good enough, but doing good is a result of what God has done to save us" That's it. Just a quick friendly reminder of the gospel to a man who already feels he can't make it on his own. Maybe God will use that
11/4/10 Ramon, Romell in their 30's
Can we witness to other Christians? I love going to witness at the park because I always spend time in prayer, enjoying God's beautiful creation first. Today I prayed that no matter who I end up talking to or where they are at with the Lord, that I could just be a blessing one way or another. For me, praying like this takes the pressure off of what we traditionally know as evangelism, and frees me to just allow the Holy Spirit to work through me however he might choose. I found two brothers fishing, and they were so friendly we talked for perhaps half an hour about many things before I asked them about their beliefs. They were so glad I asked because they are Christians also, trusting in Christ alone for salvation. They also share their faith regularly, and were glad to hear some of my thoughts about it. We were all greatly encouraged by the conversation, and before I left I prayed for them, for God's blessing on their families, their work and their church. If witnessing means testifying as to who God is to me and what he has done in my life so that others may be encouraged to draw near to the Lord also, then yes, I believe Christians can witness to other Christians.
Can we witness to other Christians? I love going to witness at the park because I always spend time in prayer, enjoying God's beautiful creation first. Today I prayed that no matter who I end up talking to or where they are at with the Lord, that I could just be a blessing one way or another. For me, praying like this takes the pressure off of what we traditionally know as evangelism, and frees me to just allow the Holy Spirit to work through me however he might choose. I found two brothers fishing, and they were so friendly we talked for perhaps half an hour about many things before I asked them about their beliefs. They were so glad I asked because they are Christians also, trusting in Christ alone for salvation. They also share their faith regularly, and were glad to hear some of my thoughts about it. We were all greatly encouraged by the conversation, and before I left I prayed for them, for God's blessing on their families, their work and their church. If witnessing means testifying as to who God is to me and what he has done in my life so that others may be encouraged to draw near to the Lord also, then yes, I believe Christians can witness to other Christians.
11/3/10 Augustin, about 60
I used a MDB to start a gospel conversation with an older man (Augustin) out feeding the geese at the park with his grandaughter, and he was more than happy to talk about his beliefs. Though raised Catholic in Mexico, Augustin has been exploring different ideas - not the major religions but new teachings such as Scientology and conspiracy theories and the like. He recently read a book that he couldn't stop talking about, though he couldn't remember the name. Much like the "name it and claim it" false teachers of the Bible, it taught him that through transforming his thoughts he can have what he wants here and now, control his destiny, and by extension have what he wants in the next life. His thoughts and words seemed to constantly gravitate toward this belief and he rejected pretty much anything that denied him of this hope as negative thinking that comes against it, yet Augustin still seemed to have some respect for the Bible as God's word. I felt led to drive home the point that whatever teachings he follows needs to have the authority of God's word behind it. I explained how we break the 2nd Commandment against false idols when we imagine our own version of God according to what we are comfortable with. Only the Bible is God's authoritative word and I talked about reasons why I believe this. His "nieta" had fun playing while we talked. Her only concern was that he take her to McDonald's like he promised.
I used a MDB to start a gospel conversation with an older man (Augustin) out feeding the geese at the park with his grandaughter, and he was more than happy to talk about his beliefs. Though raised Catholic in Mexico, Augustin has been exploring different ideas - not the major religions but new teachings such as Scientology and conspiracy theories and the like. He recently read a book that he couldn't stop talking about, though he couldn't remember the name. Much like the "name it and claim it" false teachers of the Bible, it taught him that through transforming his thoughts he can have what he wants here and now, control his destiny, and by extension have what he wants in the next life. His thoughts and words seemed to constantly gravitate toward this belief and he rejected pretty much anything that denied him of this hope as negative thinking that comes against it, yet Augustin still seemed to have some respect for the Bible as God's word. I felt led to drive home the point that whatever teachings he follows needs to have the authority of God's word behind it. I explained how we break the 2nd Commandment against false idols when we imagine our own version of God according to what we are comfortable with. Only the Bible is God's authoritative word and I talked about reasons why I believe this. His "nieta" had fun playing while we talked. Her only concern was that he take her to McDonald's like he promised.
How NOT to witness...
While shopping for car insurance I was asked if I'd like a free quote for an extended car warranty. "Why not" I thought, picturing a quick minute on the phone to satisfy my curiosity. So today a car warranty salesman called, going through a long process of questions about my car and a masterful sales pitch that made it hard to say no without feeling like a jerk after he had gone to all that trouble. Well, when I finally heard the quote I said I needed time to think about it. Truth be told, I didn't really intend to get one in the first place. Finally the salesman told me he would try to get a special deal if he could get his manager's approval. After several minutes the "manager" came on the phone, telling how he could get several hundred dollars knocked off the price by using a dealer's private number and claiming the warranty was sold through a dealer referral. Suddenly I had an idea, thinking maybe I could turn this into a witnessing conversation or at least get off the phone. "So basically what you want me to do is lie, saying that I was referred by a car dealer when you know perfectly well I wasn't, and you want to lie about it too. And you expect me to do business with you on that basis?" I said, from my high horse of self-righteousness. But this guy knew better. "There must be some other reason you don't want the warranty". Uh oh, he was right, I had to admit there was. I never really intended to buy one, and just wanted an excuse to get off the phone, or start a gospel conversation. I never told him I am a Christian and I'm kind of glad, because I wasn't acting like one. Maybe I could have apologized and redeemed the situation, but I didn't. Our "law to the proud, grace to the humble" message needs to come only from humble people, and today I was disqualified.
While shopping for car insurance I was asked if I'd like a free quote for an extended car warranty. "Why not" I thought, picturing a quick minute on the phone to satisfy my curiosity. So today a car warranty salesman called, going through a long process of questions about my car and a masterful sales pitch that made it hard to say no without feeling like a jerk after he had gone to all that trouble. Well, when I finally heard the quote I said I needed time to think about it. Truth be told, I didn't really intend to get one in the first place. Finally the salesman told me he would try to get a special deal if he could get his manager's approval. After several minutes the "manager" came on the phone, telling how he could get several hundred dollars knocked off the price by using a dealer's private number and claiming the warranty was sold through a dealer referral. Suddenly I had an idea, thinking maybe I could turn this into a witnessing conversation or at least get off the phone. "So basically what you want me to do is lie, saying that I was referred by a car dealer when you know perfectly well I wasn't, and you want to lie about it too. And you expect me to do business with you on that basis?" I said, from my high horse of self-righteousness. But this guy knew better. "There must be some other reason you don't want the warranty". Uh oh, he was right, I had to admit there was. I never really intended to buy one, and just wanted an excuse to get off the phone, or start a gospel conversation. I never told him I am a Christian and I'm kind of glad, because I wasn't acting like one. Maybe I could have apologized and redeemed the situation, but I didn't. Our "law to the proud, grace to the humble" message needs to come only from humble people, and today I was disqualified.
11/1/10 Jerry. 17
After work today I talked with Jerry, an African-American and a senior in high school. I had shared the gospel with him about two years ago, and he clearly has been doing a lot of thinking since then. We talked for an hour and a half about origins, God's existence and the nature of the Christian faith. Although Jerry favors science and doesn't believe in God, he says he isn't an atheist either. He understands that a true scientist shouldn't rule out any possibilities as part of the scientific method - including the possibility of God's supernatural involvement. In addition to his intellectual doubts, Jerry also has theological questions, about things such as free will and the existence of hell. The conversation continued for so long because he felt free to ask these questions without my judging him and, maybe even more importantly, without my thinking I was convincing him. I kept reminding him as I explained things that I know he doesn't necessarily agree with me but is nodding merely to affirm that he understands what I am saying. I believe this is a key thing to do in conversations - let your listener know that they don't have to agree with everything you say, but ask if they'll hear you out just so they can better understand what Christians believe. On this basis, Jerry heard a very complete gospel presentation and knows the choices and consequences that stand before him, if God does exist.
After work today I talked with Jerry, an African-American and a senior in high school. I had shared the gospel with him about two years ago, and he clearly has been doing a lot of thinking since then. We talked for an hour and a half about origins, God's existence and the nature of the Christian faith. Although Jerry favors science and doesn't believe in God, he says he isn't an atheist either. He understands that a true scientist shouldn't rule out any possibilities as part of the scientific method - including the possibility of God's supernatural involvement. In addition to his intellectual doubts, Jerry also has theological questions, about things such as free will and the existence of hell. The conversation continued for so long because he felt free to ask these questions without my judging him and, maybe even more importantly, without my thinking I was convincing him. I kept reminding him as I explained things that I know he doesn't necessarily agree with me but is nodding merely to affirm that he understands what I am saying. I believe this is a key thing to do in conversations - let your listener know that they don't have to agree with everything you say, but ask if they'll hear you out just so they can better understand what Christians believe. On this basis, Jerry heard a very complete gospel presentation and knows the choices and consequences that stand before him, if God does exist.
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