Hawaii Witnessing (part 1)

We had a great week in Hawaii. We got to enjoy activities with the family by BBQing, snorkeling, hiking, zip-lining, making our way to waterfalls, got to see a black sand beach, we attended a Hawaiian Christian worship service and enjoyed a Christian based Luau (that we think was part of a YWAM organization). But we also were able to leave tracts at places we went, gave them to those who lead our tours and activities, and also we planned for spending one afternoon on the streets with a couple we met on through a Christian ministry.

On Thursday morning we put on our sun block, got ready, ate breakfast, sorted our tracts, and headed out to the place we were going to meet with Virgil and Rhonda in Kona, Hawaii. We found our way down the main strip on Ali'i (ah-lee-E) drive to a free parking area. We walked down to the church area where we met. The church is a place that the couple witnesses outside of regularly on Wednesday's as the huge cruise ships pull into the port a block from there and they tend to get a bunch of those people on this main road heading to the "sites" (this church is popular for historical things), and to the souvenir shops along the water front and to enjoy lunch at the restaurants on the street that have breezy window free buildings to enjoy the scenery and the wind to cool you down.

I contacted the couple on my cell and know they're there. I waited until we got out of the car before explaining to my nephew, who has never gone out with me to hand out tracts or talk to people about Jesus, that "we might run into people who do not want them, or they might yell or be mean, but it is only because they do not understand what we are trying to tell them about Jesus. So I told him not to feel bad if people act that way or if he see people behaving like that to anyone in our group." I didn't want to tell him this before we went or he would feel scared, so I just shared it as information for him to be aware of, once we got there. Especially since he has hardly ever been to church unless my mom brings him, though she has conversations with him about Jesus since he was young.

I walked toward the church with my parents and my 7 year old nephew, (who looks older than and is twice as tall as the others in his 1st grade class). I hoped I would recognize Virgil. As we got closer I realized he and his wife were indeed in front of the church, and were engaged in conversations already. Glory to God! Virgil had a cowboy hat on and a stack of tracts in his hand, she had some items in hers as well, and that is how I confirmed "they were them", lol.

We hung back until they were done with the conversations and then we all were introduced. We prayed over the things the Lord would use us for that day in reaching out to those who are not saved, giving us the words to share and thanked him for the opportunity to come together and reach the lost. Then we took some group photos before we started....

They showed us some tracts and materials they had there and offered that if we felt moved to share them with those we talked to we could. And they showed us a neat gospel tract post card that they published this year. I think it is a good one. Plus, whoever sends these in the mail, no one will ever know who sent it to them, so it shouldn't cause anyone to be afraid to reach others for Christ. Then they showed us the celebrity millions, which I had not seen before "in real life", and wondered if they would actually work. Would they be a stumbling block or would they be useful in reaching people? We'd find out.

My dad sat down to observe how we witnessed, as he has not participated in sharing tracts yet and is a little shy. It took me a couple years from learning WOTM material before I stepped out, so I am glad that they came along. The last few years in Los Vegas I have been unable to get them to come with me on the streets, to observe (and be there because there is safety in numbers, esp. in that town). My mom has handed out some tracts to children at VBS when she was a teacher in it at their Church. She then moved on to showing the curved tract to children in restaurants in the last few years whenever she felt bold enough to do it. They leave MDB's and other tracts at restaurants. Their favorite was the large Quarter tract Living Waters used to offer until this year. Well, I wondered if she was going to step out and hand tracts to people today. I wanted to pair them with Rhonda and Virgil so they could see how people minister in conversations, but we ended up doing all our own thing. Virgil went across the street and so did my nephew. He handed tracts out pretty boldly, even about 20 yards away from those who were coming. I don't know that anyone refused a tract from him. Kids are kind of cute that way, no one wants to hurt their feelings. Rhonda said the area is usually very hard to witness in and they are always encountering spiritual warfare there pretty intensely.

Rhonda and I stayed on the side of the church and my mom hung out near us by the church, (as a tourist pretending to be a tourist, lol). We handed out tracts and people took them. It was a little weird with the celebrity tracts whenever I tried using them. I had my own stash of tracts that I brought the LW (http://tinyurl.com/livingwaters) million dollar bill, a couple good person tracts from fellowshiptractleague.org, and the your moment of truth tract, (which are good to use because if you don't finish your conversation, they'll read it later and end up with all the things you wanted to tell them but they wouldn't listen too, and there is more information on the website the tract points to).

Virgil ended up in a good long conversation with a big guy across the street and he took a full sized Bible with him. I hope Virgil shares that encounter with us, because I overheard him telling Rhonda and my mom parts of it, as I passed out tracts a few feet away and tried to get conversations with people. Not a lot of people stopped to talk to us, but some did take tracts. Others didn't want them. When I used the celebrity bills people did not seem as interested in them as the million dollar bill. The Your Moment of Truth tracts (http://www.yourmomentoftruth.com/) worked pretty well and they enabled me to get a foot in the door to a conversation for a minute. However, regardless of the tract we used to snag them into a conversation most people kept walking cause they didnt want to talk to us about religious things. It was a little hard to get people into conversations with the celebrity bills than with the other tracts. I don't think I am going to offer them to people, even in my own area (Hollywood, CA). We handed tracts out to college age and older adults, and also to a few locals who might be homeless.

A Korean lady with a stroller and her little 2 year old boy walking next to her stopped to let me show the boy something neat. I held up the two curved tracts (http://tinyurl.com/livingwaters) asked him which one is bigger? He pointed to the pink one, then I switched them and looked at his mom for a split second and asked him again "which one is bigger?" he pointed to the blue one. I told him "they are both the same size. They just look like they are bigger." And then I said "you can have this for free to take home with you" and he took them and started running gleefully down the pathway while his mom was still surprised by the illusion and smiled at me while she chased after him. He was like the happiest kid ever, it was so cute!

(Two more parts to the witnessing in Hawaii can be found below....)



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Witnessing in Hawaii (part 2)

In Part one of our Hawaii witnessing blog…

I shared how we got to Hawaii, and pre-arranged to meet with local believers there, to share the gospel in the main touristy area.

After handing out tracts for a while I saw three girls coming down the pathway. Two were preoccupied, with one having an ipod zombie-ing her out, the other was fidgeting with things in her hands, and the third one was not incapacitated so when they came by I had three MDB’s in my hand to give to them. One thing I like to do is to have two different kinds of tracts with me so that when I hand them out, their friends get a different design then they do, so it occupies them for a few minutes when they walk away. I handed them to her and told her they were million dollar bills and there was one for each of her friends there too. They walked away and Rhonda and I talked for a minute awaiting others to come by. The girls came back after reading them, and said they were “giving them back to me, because they were theology students and didn’t want them”. I told her “Oh, well there is good information on the back that they should at least consider” and I said something else to that effect as well. They didn’t want them. When they walked away I was perplexed as to why I was unable to move into a spiritual discussion with them. Perhaps the Holy Spirit was telling me not to continue. They were closed to the conversation, and I think they think they are “good to go with God” and are closed minded right now. When they walked away I told Rhonda that I originally though they came over as those who think they are intellectual because they go to college, and I thought they said they were “Philosophy majors” but really they said “Theology majors”. I couldn’t believe I made that error. Though I was glad to say what I did in hindsight, because both unsaved Philosophy and unsaved Theology students still need to be saved.

It was hot out, and Rhonda and I talked about how thankful we are for the trees that were there to shade us (between the walk way and the street). We then walked over to the other side of the street and Virgil traded places with us. I had hoped Virgil would get my dad to stand next to him, but he was so close to Virgil anyway, he could still hear any conversations. It might take a while for him to move into conversations with people, because he is really shy. He doesn’t like being the substitute teacher in Sunday School, but he does it as long as my mom teams up with him to do it. So while she has come out of her shell a little more, he has not yet. But I hope one day he will.

Rhonda and I stood on the other side of the street and not many people came by at all, so we decided to split up the group (there were too many of us there in one place anyway), and we headed down the (land based) board walk. I grabbed some tracts and caught up with Rhonda. We went over to a shop there and she got coffee and I got a lemonade drink. When I paid for the drink I told the guy I would put this (a million dollar bill tract) in the jar but he was right there so I handed it to him. We chatted for a minute and then I left to catch up with Rhonda. She had walked over to a couple and was starting to hand them a 10 commandment coin (tract item). And we found out they were from Egypt. Since YWAM (Youth With a Mission [that’s not about the gospel]) has a university kind of school thing nearby we assumed they were visiting to go there for a training course. I realized they had Egyptian Bible’s open and were studying something because there were papers or notebooks around them. We told them we go out on the streets to share the gospel with people and we hand them gospel tracts to start conversations. She gave them a couple million dollar bill and your moment of truth tracts. They took them and said they would keep one and give the duplicates away. We encouraged them to do so. We talked for a minute and then went on our way.


When we were almost leaving the boardwalk we ran into two girls at the corner retail shack (its an open air one with no windows). One worked there and the other one was shopping. I handed them a YMOT tract and we talked about the tv show your moment of truth for a minute. I shared with her about the girl on there who answered the question “are you a good person” wrong. Her conscience told her she was not a good person, though she thought she was. Because of that belief she lost everything. The information in the tract tells us that we are not good people and that if we think we are we will lose everything when we stand before God, that we will lose our soul and end up in Hell, but that Jesus did something for us so we don’t have to go to hell. They agreed about that and thanked us for talking with them.

We went back past our group and down the waterway path and ran into a homeless looking Rastafaria guy (with a few missing teeth) came by us holding a ukulele (guitar). Rhonda offered him a tract and the guy told us he believed in God. He stopped for a minute and we attempted to strike up a conversation with him and ended up “getting in the door” by asking him about his ukulele. He said he plays “backyard style” which means he doesn’t know how to play and just strums on it. So we asked him to play something and he strummed a little. I told him he “played really well.” I also mentioned that it appears one “doesn’t need to know how to play that instrument to make beautiful music” (it truly is beautiful). Then he asked us which church we go to. Rhonda told him where she goes and I told him I am here on vacation and go to a church in Los Angeles, California. So he then broke out in song with the ukulele paying “Amazing Grace”. And Rhonda started humming and singing along so I joined in and then before I knew it she was recording us singing. I’m not sure if you will find that popping up on Utube, but if you do… forgive my voice it’s just a joyful noise box.

We also spoke to a Hawaiian native on the street who then talked to us briefly too, cause he was sitting near where we talked to the homeless guy. I had given him a gospel tract earlier to take with him as he seemed in a hurry at the time. I love the your moment of truth tract because is great for situations like that! Whether you talk to them, only get part of a conversation with them, or just hand it to them…it has the complete gospel in it. So the young guy spoke to us a few minutes but we didn’t get anywhere in the conversation. At least he had the tract I gave him from earlier. He was with his mom who was next to us weaving baskets from palm leaves, as she sells them for a living.

Tune in next time for the rest of the witnessing trip… you don’t want to miss it!

Hawaii Evangelism pt 3

Witnessing in Hawaii, the Conclusion....

Rhonda and I walked on and ran into a mother and daughter sitting on a curb outside a shaved ice store. They were waiting for her husband to come out with their cool snack. It was pretty hot out. I walked up to her and offered them each a regular million dollar bill tract and told them it was free.

I asked the mom if she had a religious background. She said yes, catholic. And I told her the back of the million dollar bill asks an important question. Will you go to heaven when you die. I asked if she could name any of the 10 commandments. She said she couldn’t think of any. I told her I’m sure she could remember at least one. (I tried to get her motivated to talk with me)... x
She said she couldn’t, and she really didn’t want to talk to me about religious things. It’s a personal thing for her. I told her we are out today talking with people because we know its important to make sure we know where we are going when we die. She was adamantly in her attitude, not really nice, and kind of non responsive (I could tell she wanted me to leave her alone). She wasn’t rude or mean, just in a weird way just not wanting to talk. Her preteen daughter was sitting with her and so, I tried to encourage her to read the back of the million dollar bill because its important. I felt like that was a swing and a miss. At least they had the tract and hopefully what I was trying to say to her would make sense after she read the tract. Since she has a catholic background she may not even read it, but perhaps her daughter will.


We went back to our meeting spot with the group and attempted to give out a few other tracts. Some college age guys took some from me, a few younger girls, and a couple who were walking by my nephew (as I was approaching him to call him to come back a little closer to us) as he offered the MDB the lady asked what it was. He looked at me and I flipped it over and showed her the million dollar question on the back. And read it right out to her “the million dollar question: Will you go to heaven when you die?” She said yes and we talked a minute. She said her and her husband go to a church down the road from here [so they are locals] and that they know people at YWAM. We talked for about 10 minutes. We shared with them that we are on vacation and are out with a local couple who witness there to the locals and those who come off of the cruise lines. We told them how we share the gospel and etc. It was a nice conversation.

At one point a creepy older homeless guy (white but very tan, with long blond dreadlocks) came our way and while we tried to talk to him he was just not interested in talking.

I spoke to another native Hawaiian lady who also appeared homeless who had a local friend with her. Most of the people there are white or Hawaiian natives, or tourists.

Later on we packed up and headed back to meet up with the rest of our family. I’m sure we were out for about 3 hours and that was a pretty long time for my parents’ first street “outing.” And I was glad to hear that my mom had been handing out tracts in the walkway in front of the church. After we got back to the resort, she told me she had the hardest people come past her when Rhonda and I walked down the boardwalk. She said she handed out to a few people as they were walking by and they took the tract and didn’t stop, others turned their face and snubbed her or would not only refuse the tract, (either thinking it was cult material or because they were anti-Christian), but they would also speak rudely to her or say “No” in a very mean way. She tried to hand a large 100 dollar bill to a mother of a couple young children who were walking by, offering it as “play money” and the mother grabbed her little children by the arm and dragged them away as she firmly said in a rude and aggressively way “NO!” Her kids didn’t understand and she treated her children badly because of her (the mom’s) behavior. My mom told Virgil she couldn’t understand how the mother would react that way since the kids can’t even read. I told her there could be many reasons why. It could be due to a situation in her life where she is mad at God right now, had a pushy family member or someone else she knows try to get her to church, or she had a bad experience with someone who professed to be a Christian and ended up causing her to walk away from spiritual things. No one knows but God, and at least my mom tried.

After we returned home from Hawaii Rhonda sent me an email and told me that she and Virgil went back to see if the Egyptian couple was still there so they could talk to them, and encourage them. They were there, and they had a great conversation. The very next day they ran into that couple in a local store and had mentioned to Rhonda and Virgil that they were greatly encouraged by all of us to share the gospel. That was an encouragement to us because we’ve found it’s rare to get a YWAM’er interested in sharing the gospel. I look forward to hearing about Rhonda and Virgil’s witnessing encounters from this outing too.

Praise God for all the opportunities we had to talk to people, and hand out tracts.

Reaching the Lost Online

Christian: Welcome to chat! Let me know how I can help you know God better, answer any questions, or help you to make sure you are saved.

Den: hi. I am looking to chat. I am a Christian, I am saved.
Christian: Hi Den, Welcome.
Christian: Let me ask, how did you get saved?
Den: i have 3 uncles who are pastors and they shared about how to be saved
Christian: (rephrased - How do people get saved?)
Den: he just let me follow prayer to accept Christ as my personal savior
Christian: I'm kind of confused about your answer so I am probing a little. Please stay with me on this....
Den: ok…
Christian: why would someone need to do that. Why do we need to accept Jesus and pray? what I am saying is that your answer to my question is a little squishy. I am just trying to figure out how you got saved and the reason you wanted to be saved.
Christian: why do you think people need to be saved?
Den: to be in heaven, so that people can have eternal life..
Christian: but why cant people just get to heaven automatically when they die?
Christian: there must be a reason they need saving
Den: become all of us have sinned
Christian: ok. what is sin?
Den: um…
Christian: most people cant answer that, because they've never been told what it is and why its important, but its so vital to the reason we need to be saved.
Den: sin are the bad things we do and disobeying Gods commandments
Christian: can you name some of the commandments?
Den: love God above all
Den: thou shall not 4get the sabbath day
Christian: Yes, we need a day to rest!
Christian: that's true
Den: honor your father and mother
Christian: how about adultery....
Christian: Jesus said if you look with lust, its adultery of the heart
Den: thou shall not kill
Christian: And Jesus said if we hate someone we are guilty of murder in the heart
Den: stealing is another
Christian: You're right! Those are some of the commandments.
Christian: They cut right to our heart, and they even compose of the things we do in our thoughts and the things we think we do in secret.
Christian: Den, who see's these things we think and do when no one is around?
Den: Jesus
Christian: We'll God tells us that we all fall short of the Glory of God, and his Standard. that standard is the Ten Commandments. God shows it to us as a mirror to our heart. So we see ourselves in truth...
Christian: and so if we break one Commandment in thought word or deed.. we have broken the Law...
Christian: and God demands the death penalty for our crimes.
Christian: Our crimes are not against other people, because they did not create the Law. No, our crimes are against our Holy God.
Christian: And he seeks the death penalty.
Christian: so there's nothing we can do to not want to sin by hating someone. we're all ready in trouble and we cant do anything to get out of it
Christian: This is why Jesus is so important.
Christian: We don't get saved to go to heaven or get eternal life. “We get saved”, or “come to Jesus” so that we will be saved from God's wrath against our crimes.
Christian: And we come to Jesus out of gratitude and love for what he did on the cross for us.
Christian: We broke the Law, Jesus paid our fine. Does that make sense?
Den: yes,but what if i committed a mortal sin? what should i do not to hate someone?
Christian: all sins are sins. There is no difference
Christian: If we do something against the Law of God (whether towards God or man) its only a crime against God.
Den: then what should i do?
Christian: well, that is why we come to Jesus for salvation.
Christian: We come because we know we are sinners, that we do not do good (God's word says no one is good and no one does good). His word says “all the things we do are as filthy dirty rags that are only fit to burn.”
Christian: And “we can not earn salvation”, we can not bribe God (the Judge of our soul) with any deeds (because they are worthless).
Christian: All we can do is fall at the feet of Jesus Christ and obey the Gospel...
Christian: This is why I asked you earlier because not everyone who thinks they are saved... is. They hear a gospel message that sounds good but its not the real one. In the end it leads to destruction and hell, that is why I like to make sure anyone I talk to “is” saved by asking these kinds of questions, so that they can hear the biblical message of what we need to do to be saved, and the reason why we need to be saved.
Christian: Has anyone ever told you what you must do to be saved? What God's terms are...?
Den: all i understand is that to accept God as my personal saviour
Christian: But the question is… what does that mean. The gospel tells us that we do not accept God, God accepts us. And we have to know why we need God and what Jesus has to do with it all.
Christian: What we give God is not a flippant acceptance. its based on obedience to the gospel.
Den: after I’m saved i should do good things
Christian: Well, after we are saved we will do things that please God because we are saved, and because GOD does those things through us.
Christian: So this is what the gospel message of God declares and commands:
Christian: “God calls all men everywhere to repent, because he has appointed a day (judgment day) where in he will judge the world in righteousness (according to the Law) through the One he appointed (Jesus Christ)...”
Christian: He calls us to Repent and Trust in Jesus....
Christian: Repentance isnt saying a prayer or saying your sorry and continuing to live as you did before...
Christian: Repentance is a ONE TIME situation where you Talk to God (yourself personally in private - no one else around)....
Christian: Repentance is admitting to God that you are a sinner, that you have violated the Law of God... you name as many sins as you can think of.... and you ask Jesus to forgive you of those sins. Your sins (past, present and future) will be forgiven (once and for all).
Den: is that what should i do 2 be 4given by God?
Christian: I'm still explaining...hold on….
Den: what if im already saved and i committed a sin? can God still forgive me?
Christian: Well, lets first confirm that you are saved first. Because it doesn’t sound like you really are. (ie. since you couldn’t tell me how to be saved, why to be saved, and you gave me a different answer that a Christian should give to those questions…let's confirm you're saved, and then I'll answer that question ok?)
Christian: So, Repentance is admitting to God that you are a sinner, that you have violated the Law of God... (name as many sins as you can think of when you talk to God).... and ask Jesus to forgive you of those sins. Your sins past present and future will be forgiven (once and for all).
Den: ok
Christian: The other part of "repentance" is the turning from those sins. It’s a forsaking of sin. You no longer desire to do what is against God (rebellion, sin, etc)... and you abhor sin (means to hate it, hate it, hate it and want nothing to do with it anymore)...
Christian: So first is Repentance... and the second part is... Trusting Jesus.
Christian: (This is not a fluffy kind of trust.)
Christian: it means that you “believe” Jesus is who the Bible says He is, and who Jesus says He is in the Bible. It also means that you believe that Jesus died on the cross for you’re your sins… that only Jesus can save you from God's coming punishment that will fall upon all who die in their sins (unforgiven sinners).
Christian: If your sins are forgiven ... you are a “forgiven sinner” and not an unforgiven sinner.
Christian: The TRUST you have is that Jesus Christ died on the cross to pay for your crimes against God. And if you receive it, it’s PAID IN FULL. And your case is closed before God.
Christian: You broke the Law and Jesus paid the fine. If you RECEIVE Jesus payment on your behalf, by Telling God you want that FREE gift God offers in Jesus (Forgiveness and eternal life)...
Christian: Then its as if Jesus comes into God's court room... and you are about to be sentenced for serious crimes. You dont have the money or the ability to get out of the situation, are about to be sentenced... and Jesus bursts into the court room... runs up to the Judge and says "I love this man, I sold all I have to pay for His fine." and the Judge looks at you and says you are free to go. This person paid your fine for you. Jesus paid the fine with his life’s blood on the cross. The Justice of God is served, because the fine is paid for IN FULL.... and you are now a free man…with an new friend in whom you are grateful to, and live out that gratitude from this day forward. Praising and Thanking God for saving you.
Christian: Does that make sense?

Den: yah
Christian: Repentance and Trusting in Jesus. That’s it. That’s all you need to do to be saved.
Christian: Once you do that, as you talk to God in prayer, GOD will ACCEPT Jesus work on your behalf, and you will instantly become a forgiven sinner, and an adopted child of God.
Christian: Does that make sense?
Den: yah
Christian: great.
Den: ill do it
Den: thanks
Christian: So when your relatives tried to tell you about the gospel and how to be saved, it doesnt sound like they gave the biblical gospel message. However, I am glad you are going to "Get right with God" and become saved today. You’ll be a Born Again believer!
Christian: You know Jesus not only said to “Repent”, but also that one “Must be born again to enter heaven”.
Den: i think they did tell me, i just didn’t understand so clear.

Christian: If you repent and trust in Christ then you will be born again, and God's spirit will make you into an new person. That transformation is amazing.
Christian: We no longer desire to sin, (but that doesn’t mean we don’t mess up and sin).

Den: im a born again
Christian: Being born again is what happens after you obey the Gospel. You're going to do that tonight, right now, right?
Den: yeah
Den: thanks
Christian: awsome! Praise God. I am so happy. You know... the Bible says that
when you get saved.. .”the Angels in heaven rejoice!”
Den: ive heard that verse J

Christian: Here is a website to help you as you begin to grow in the faith, study the Bible (your own personal time in the Bible between you and God).... *****************
Christian: There are important articles in there for new believers to know. But don't go there until after you pray/talk to God.
Den: thanks. i’ll visit it
Christian: Thank you for talking with me tonight!
Christian: BTW, I lead a Bible study class online for new believers. feel free to swing over and join us! **********
Den: okey,by the way its morning here today
Christian: have a great day then and God bless!
Christian: PS.. your question will be answered at that website!
Den: okey thanks

Den: thanks God for using you as a channel
Christian: Have a great day Den! I am blessed to have been here to help you come to know God! Den: thanks to you
Christian: thanks to God using me!
Den: yes
Christian: ok (Go pray to God now)!

Den: are you signing off?
Christian: yep, unless you have another question.
Christian: (I am usually here one hour earlier than we chatted tonight.)

Den: can you help me to share this gospel with my friend?
Christian: Yes. Send them to www.NeedGod.com and then just tell your friend about our conversation.
Den: he's a catholic
Christian: Great. Everyone needs to be saved. Even if they don’t want to hear the gospel of the Bible... YOU know it and YOU will obey it. Don’t let anyone discourage you from the faith! This faith is the only one that saves!

Den: its hard for me to share this with him because dont know if hes interested about listening to God
Christian: its ok. You can just tell him/her about your conversation, and that you became born again today by obeying the gospel of the Bible.
Christian: show him the website and let GOD do the work in him/her towards the truth.
Note…. It could be years and years before they come to Jesus, but God can save them right now if they are open to wanting to be saved!

Christian: Ok, have a great day....and Go pray to God right now before you do anything else!
den: okey, I will
den: thanks
den: good evening

**Chat ended**

Firefighter Loses Faith

The Evangelism Ministry, where I learned how to share the gospel, has received a very sad email this week and sent it on to me. I wanted to share it with you because it is something that everyone should gleen truth from and proper understanding about things in this world. I pray this information helps you as you live for Christ and reach out to others about God.

The Letter is from a man who had lost faith in God. He was a firefighter who was close friends with a woman firefighter. He said, "She brought me even closer to God and His word. She also did mission work. She was full of life and love, even though she was only 24 years old when we met. She showed me that no matter what, God should always come before anything else.

. . . We decided to attack [a fire] from two different sides. Just let me say that we both had hundreds of hours of training and both knew what to do if anything went wrong. She was only 150 to 200 yards to the south of me when the wind shifted violently! We had been through this training a thousand times, but I could hear her screaming my name over all the other noises around me! The survival process is simple she would always tell me. First thing above all, before you do anything, is you believe in God! Then you take out your survival blanket and cover up, and God will do the rest. To me God didn't do His part! By the time I could fight my way through the smoke and fire, she had already burned to death! Her blanket had gotten hung on a small tree, so she had no chance! I carried her burned body over a mile and placed it in a body bag! I also placed my faith in God in that same body bag along with all my hopes and dreams."

What this man endured was a horror beyond words. However, just this week hundreds died in an earthquake in horrific circumstances. Most were buried alive. Also this week, parents lost their children though cancer, others were crushed in car accidents, and others were horribly murdered. No doubt, many of these people prayed and believed in God. Some may even have trusted in the Savior, and knew that Jesus spoke of two builders. One man built his house on sand, while the other built his house on rock. Both builders were hit by the same storm, but only the one built on the rock stood firm. The one who stood firm was the one who heard the words of Jesus and obeyed them. So, even (especially) during the calm times, be obedient to the Scriptures. Read them daily and be totally surrendered to the will of God. That way, when a storm hits, you may be shaken, but you won't fall. Please pray for the fireman.

If these things happen in your life or around you just remember Christians know that tragic things happen in this world - because of the Fall of Man: the sin nature and consequences of sin. There are other tragedies from the Fall also that permeate within creation itself. Disease, Floods, Tornados and even Fires that result in death.

While God’s will for the firewoman’s life was to call her to heaven at that time, the fireman is left behind, just as we are when these kinds of things happen. But they happen for a reason and God will always get glory from it. Perhaps those she knew will hear the gospel at the funeral and come to Christ. It could be her sister, her brother, her mother, her elderly grandmother, a coworker, several people she knows, or perhaps a friend’s boss upon hearing the employee is going to a funeral of a dear Christian friend ends up in a conversation about Christ. It could be the paramedic who just started on the job, it could be someone who passed by the fire and thought about a recent gospel message and was contemplating the shortness of life when he drove by the accident and saw a body bag being carried to the ambulance. It could be a number of encounters that happen all around the Christian firewoman’s death. I always pray that is the case every time I see an ambulance. I hope it will touch those involved, those around them, those they know and create a ripple effect. That Christians around these people will reach out, or if the person in the ambulance is not saved that someone at the hospital…perhaps a Christian roommate, a Christian Chaplain, a Christian family member, etc… will be able to pray with them and reach out to them in this delicate situation to reach them with the gospel so they can be saved. They may not have much time left, or they may recover. They may die on the operating table after a second procedure.

Whatever it is… whether they are a Christian who will discuss these things with others they know after they leave the hospital, or with those who come to visit them during recovery, or among their circle of influence at home or at work or with a stranger, or someone who comes to Christ because of a Christian sharing the situation with someone else….God’s glory will be done and Christ will shine forth as the Savior and God will receive all the credit for whatever the results are relating to the firewoman’s death or the life of one who is in an ambulance that is racing down the street.

These are the reasons I pray in all situations that I hear of, and when any ambulance passes by. Because I care about the salvation of all men. I also pray that there will be laborers in the field around the situation so that the gospel can be proclaimed and God will receive Glory. That the Lord will compel a believer to step out of their comfort zone and speak to others a word of hope and share the gospel that saves souls.

Will you pray with me that this firefighter is a Christian who is just struggling with this situation right now because he doesn’t understand it, and due to the loss of this influential Christian woman and friend of his, he is confused and needs answers. Will you pray that he will receive a clear understanding of God’s will, purpose, glory and etc in the death of this firewoman at the funeral and or from fellow Christians, so that he can clearly *understand these things in life, and
*thank God for all that he will do through her death in the coming days, months and years as those she knows testify about her,
*the tragedy of a life cut short
*the truth of no guarantee of a long life and
*that God’s glory will be revealed as souls are saved and seeds are planted for salvation.
*and everything else I mentioned in this email, and more.

Pray also that you will stand strong in the faith, with a clear understanding of God’s sovereignty and will and glory in all things, so that you can continue in Christ through tragedies, and assist others (for Christ) with this information and reach out to them with the gospel, so that they can become saved and have peace with God – even amidst storms in life and tragedies too.

By VangyBlue
Resources that may help you as you life for Christ, witness to those you know and meet, and to encourage those in your church with evangelism training, can be found at: www.RiversofTruth.com, www.PhyreMinistries.org, www.sbcfellowship.com

PS. Feel free to copy this information "in its entirety" and send to your Christian friends and those in your circle of influence to share this message with them. God Bless

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welcome to my blog

In 2006 I decided to set up this blog. It was for many reasons: (1) to help others who are learning or wanting to know how to share the gospel with others. By sharing my experiences and training on the streets others could see how simple, easy and biblical they too could present the gospel to people around them; whether friends, family or others. (2) bring Glory to the Lord in sharing these stories of how he works in his children's lives and the lives of those who hear the gospel and consider its eternal truths, and their need for salvation.

I took down most of the bloggings from the last couple of years, and uploading bloggings with new adventures! I will also toss in some previous adventures to encourage and uplift you too. Some of my favorites; like the first street witnessing encounter I had (at a local mall).

I hope this blog will not only encourage you to get equipped (trained) to share the gospel, but also give you helps, tips and resources you can use to reach out to the unsaved as well.
God be with you.

Earthquake Evangelism

Earthquakes, Mysticism, Taoism, Buddhism and more…

I wonder if what happened tonight was part of a divine appointment. If it brought many to think of the tragedy earthquake occurrence cause around the world. Deaths by the dozens and hundreds, or emotionally shaken people in a frenzy about what just happened. I do know that tonight a former taoist/buhhdist and possible false Christian convert (or atheist trolling/troller) was given information to think about regarding eternity and the real reason we need Christ, and how to be right with God.

January 8, 2009
Online Evangelism Chat Room

Christian: Let me know when you join the room!!
Christian: Welcome everyone! I am here to help you learn more about God, Jesus, Salvation and the basic important topics every new believer needs to know. If you have any questions about salvation; how to be saved, or ensuring you are… just let me know. I am here to help you know more about God and your need for Christ.
Chatter: Hi
Christian: Good evening!
Chatter: Hi, am I the only one here with you?
Chatter:…
Chatter: Is there something wrong with the pc or are you still here?

(time lapsed…)

Christian: I am still here. Sorry... We just had an 5.0 earthquake!
Chatter: Wow ! Sorry to hear that…
Christian: Yeah! But I'm still here chatting!
Chatter: Are you ok?
Christian: Yep! Praise the Lord!!
Chatter: Yes. Thank God.

Chatter: Am I the only person in the room right now?
Christian: It depends. Tonight is a slow night, apparently – but a fast rock n rollen one for me here at home (lol).
Christian: Appears those who were supposed to be here tonight, for the first lesson 2009 did not make it yet. We’ll see if they show up at some point this hour. Maybe they forgot it was tonight.
Christian: Just gives us time to chat a little before we begin…

Chatter: Today is my first day with you. I've been attending chat with Amy and Mike
Christian: Glad to meet you!

Christian: FYI - incase there is a larger earthquake coming (some first ones are just the beginning), I plan to run out of the house. LOL.

Chatter: Where are you ?
Christian: Los Angeles, USA
Christian: You?
Chatter: I'm in Malaysia for 2 months. Will go back to the Netherlands in March and then continue with Amy’s class.
Chatter: Right now, I attend Mike's class
Christian: I see. So when you're in different time zone you pop into another class...
Chatter: Yes. I try to attend every week. I go for bible chat either with Amy or Mike. Only when I'm in the right time zone for each chat.
Christian: that’s good.

Christian: So, what are you learning in the other chat rooms?
Chatter: (statement) I'm a new Christian

Christian: So tell me a little about you - when did you come to Jesus?
Chatter: Some 17 years ago. I had a dream and heard a voice telling me that I will be a Christian one day.
Christian: What was happening in your life (around) the time you had that dream?
Chatter: Nothing. I wasn't close to any Christians and didn't understand anything then.
Chatter: I was only baptized in December

Christian: Forgive me; 17 years ago doesn’t sound like you're a “new” believer. J
Chatter: I know. But I took 16 years to be baptized.
Christian: oh..well,… baptism and being a believer are two different things.
Christian: Were Mike and Amy able to explain that to you?
Chatter: They taught me many things to help my faith grow

Christian: Were there any Christians that came into your life, talked to you, or that you had heard about, 16 years ago?
Chatter: No. But God had His way with me.
Chatter: He was so persistent and I couldn't escape !
Christian: How did you know what a “Christian” was, and how did you “become” a Christian then?
Chatter: When I had the dream, everyone I knew were either taoist or buddhist
Christian: so how did you know the word "Christian"?
Christian: and its meaning?

Chatter: One day, I traveled to the Uk and was ‘stranded’ there for 3 months. Then, I met ‘a long lost relative’ whom my family never knew existed, and God took me from there.
Chatter: from then, I was taught what a Christian is and who Jesus was

Christian: (its my job as a teacher to know where people came from, where they are, and it helps me to understand them and help them in Christ. so sorry if it sounds like I am poking or prying. Just trying to get info to fellowship and teach)

Christian: Oh, So God had a divine appointment for you to go to the UK and meet a Christian. And they told you what Jesus was all about.
Chatter: Not to worry. I wrote my testimony to Mike. The complete story. It's kinda long so if you're interested, I can email it to you.
Christian: no its ok. Chat is fine.

Christian: What did they tell you a "Christian is" ?
Chatter: It was years ago when they exposed me to Christ. From what I learn now, to be a Christian is to take the cross and follow Jesus
Christian: Do you understand what “take the cross and follow Jesus” means? Also…
Christian: do you believe this is “encounter with other believers” is why you had the dream? Because you were learning something or hearing something that you never knew before?
Chatter: Jesus is the bridge to heaven.

Christian: do you believe this encounter with a relative is why you had the dream? Because you were learning something or hearing something that you never knew before?
Chatter: No, I've never heard of anything then.
Christian: so, how did you know what a "Christian" was, from your dream, and what it had to do with God, the God?
Chatter: The dream just came unexpectedly. I was working, I was happy, not that I was under any stress or pressure. The dream just happened and it was so clear that I could still remember that voice !
Chatter: It’s a long story, but God paved the way for me.

Christian: So, just before you came to Jesus, what did you hear that caused you to realize you should be a Christian?
Christian: and why ...
Chatter: Through a business I had been running, things changed, God had a bigger plan for me. Now that site is for a Christian one.
Chatter: It only happened after I got baptized.
Christian: (lets pass on that topic point for now…)

Christian: He always takes things and turns them into what could be for good, if those who follow him obey him and live in the "right".
Chatter: Since I live in Holland, I don't speak Dutch and I couldn't find an English speaking church and stumbled on a website - where I found your organization.
Chatter: Your volunteers helped found me a great bilingual church in Holland
Christian: that sounds great

Christian: So, just before you came to Jesus, what did you hear that caused you to realize you should be a Christian? Like what did someone say to you, ..and then you realized you wanted Jesus…

Chatter: Everyone encouraged me. My parents are both Christians. My mother was converted 7 years ago, my dad was baptized together with me.
Christian: If they encouraged you, over 17 years ago you came to Jesus, how is it that they are just now converted?

Christian: (lets pass on that part for now…) I mean, for you to make the decision you wanted Jesus... what was the reason you decided to? (stay with me, I am going somewhere with this..)

Chatter: in December, when I got baptized, it was good for our family.
Chatter: It was my brother. He got cancer.
Chatter: I was lost and desperate. My brother accepted Christ - but I didn't think it was enough.
Christian: You are right!
Christian: Because someone else went to Jesus...and they said it made them "happy" – it doesn’t mean that it is the true right reason for coming to Jesus, and nor does it mean it would be enough...if you came to Him for happiness or a better life.

Chatter: After I became a Christian, I converted my uncle's family to accept Christ into their lives as well.
Christian: How did you convert them?
Christian: (I mean, help them toward Jesus)

Chatter: I asked them if they really understood what their religion was all about (taoist) and whether they know what happens after they die. They had no clue. And then my aunt asked me what Jesus did for us and all I could say to her is to see the movie "passion of Christ"
Christian: Many follow what they know (in any religion), because they are told it is true, but do not know why they really do it, its expected that everyone has always lived that way as far back as they can know, and so they just do it too. They don’t think anyone would lead them away from the truth of things.

Christian: (by the way, I am saying all these things in a nice tone of voice) Just wanted to make sure you know that … I am not being overbearing, just asking questions to see where you are and how you got there.)
Christian: so, how did a movie about someone being beaten and crucified help them become converted?
Christian: the movie is not in english, it is in latin.
Christian: though it has subtitles....if you can keep up with them, and the visual on the screen (pretty impossible. I know because I watch them).

Chatter: Well, in the taoist beliefs, after one dies, one goes to hell. Her father died a year ago and the monks told her that he went to hell.
Christian: I was told Taoists dont believe in heaven or hell. that is strange. that they believe that, but if they did, why would any Taoist question it. Hell would just be a fact of life and the way things are. It would not cause alarm or fear in those of that religion.

Christian: how did she know he sacrificed and how does she know it was for everyone...just from watching the movie
Chatter: After the movie, she couldn't sleep. It got so deep into her that she started to dream all night. She cried because she saw how Jesus sacrificed for all of us.
Chatter: I told her so.
Christian: oh i see

Chatter: Taoists believe in hell. Heaven is only for their gods and angels. Not for human. Everyone goes to hell. They have 18 levels of hell altogether. So it depends on which level they end up in.
Christian: wow. I never heard that before. And I’ve looked into that belief.
Christian: I have a friend who grew up catholic, not really going to church, and then over the years, even through conversations with me, she has gone a different way. Her boyfriend is muslim, but in the last few years – she changed/leans toward Taoist belief. I find that odd that she envisions only hell then... and not of any heaven.
Christian: weird
Chatter: Its all a kind of "chinese hell" thing.
Chatter: You will find a lot on Chinese hell and nothing on chinese heaven if you search online for it.
Christian: Maybe you can help me with that in a couple of minutes... the questions I have on that, that I am not very familiar with, that might help me with my friend.
Chatter: Yes, sure.

Christian: So back to my original question... what did people say to you that made you realize Jesus was necessary?
Christian: Was it to have a happy and good life, or was it something else, something more important.
Chatter: God planted many dreams into me.
Chatter: The most important thing for the Christian is the eternal life after death !
Christian: but dreams can not teach anything to us that is of truth, when we have not "heard" the truth first, from the Bible or one who teaches the bible. Dreams can be all mixed up with truth and error and fantasy. Its not based on reality and truth.

Christian: You said it is important for life after death. Tell me (in your understanding), why would anyone not get eternal life after death? What I am asking is…Why wouldn’t it be expected for a good eternal life?

Chatter: Jesus came to life after the 3rd day, He has defeated death and He has shown us all that only through Him we will be saved. This is what I tell people.

Christian: why do people need to be saved?

Chatter: Jesus mentioned in the Gospel of John 8 times, "I tell you the truth" for Jesus, being the righteous one, tells us all about the truth.
Christian: yes, that is what I was saying earlier when I said that dreams do not offer truth, they are non reality, fantasy as we sleep at night. All kinds of things from our day are mixed up in our minds, processing it if you will, crossing wires of each data, and weird resulting dreams appear sometimes. But there is no truth revealed or taught in dreams.
Chatter: Being first a taoist, buddist and then truth as a Christian makes me understand the truth. I can compare the differences of these religions and look at them in truth.
Christian: Right, now you are talking about the Bible, and not about dreams...when it comes to the things of God...only the truth is from the Word of God, from God, recorded in the Bible for us to know and learn from.
Christian: That part between the religions and Christianity isgood for comparing. It would be helpful for many people. I am glad others are out there with that knowledge to help bring light to darkened and decieved minds of the lost

Chatter: Before I was converted, I had dreams of heaven
Christian: That is confusing to me, if you do not know about, and do not believe in a heaven, but only know of and believe in a hell... it confuses me as to how you could have such dreams. You would not even know the definition of these things, including heaven Please explain...

Chatter: I know, That's why. Then I didn't know what it was about. Then the dreams became very scary when I ignored the dreams about heaven.
Christian: how can dreams about a good and wonderful place, scare someone?
Christian: (just asking)
Chatter: I had dreams about heaven a few times and the last time, I had a dream where I found a dead body wrapped in a cocoon and when I pealed open the cocoon, it was a very serene looking person but this person has very large wings on the back.
Christian: Do you think that at that time in your life, you were hoping for something better in life and death?
Christian: the image seems like a butterfly
Chatter: I was so scared cos' it looked like an angel. I couldn't see whether the wings looked like those of a butterfly.

Christian: if you didnt know what heaven was all about, or the “word” nor “definition of it” for that place {heaven}, how could you know what angels were defined as or were?
Chatter: But after I was baptized, I don't dream of these anymore but I do dream of preaching to people.
Christian: I was hoping you would explain to me more about the Taoist heaven and angels, I suppose I can ask more about that later…

Christian: so, in truth, the dream may not have been about heaven, but about flying free in life – away from burdening religious requirements of the eastern religion…or about butterflies?

Chatter: I didn't know. I asked people who knows but they didn't understand either. I only realize it now after reading the bible.
Christian: Dreams and the Bible? Not sure I follow…
Christian: hold on a minute....
Chatter: Another earthquake ?
Christian: LOL... No... I wouldn’t type for that. Hehehe
Christian: you would just not hear from me for a few minutes or so....LOL I would just run out the door. You would have to hang out for a short time. J Prayer is good too.

Christian: ok... so really, I am getting at tonight, reaching towards, of what I wanted to find out from the beginning…. as to when I asked you why you came to Jesus is the main point, and most important one in Christianity. If this understanding is wrong, the whole faith the person is clinging to is wrong.

Christian: so.. when someone says they came to Jesus... they would normally give an answer that explains “why” they came to Jesus.
Christian: let me put it another way….If you met someone on the street, back then - after you came to Jesus, what would you tell them about WHY they need to be for Jesus?

Chatter: About the understanding…Yes. I know. Many Christians especially those who were brought up from parents who are Christians don't take the trouble to learn into the faith.
Christian: well, not the “deep” about the faith, just the “main” important part. the part that specifically identifies them before God as true believers. The "yes this person is really saved, they came to Jesus for the right reason" or "no this person came under a false gospel, one that does not save, and while they are doing religious things...they still aren’t a real believer” kind of thing…

Christian: So If you met someone on the street, shortly after you came to Jesus, what would you tell them about WHY they need to be with Jesus?
Chatter: I would tell these people that the most important thing in life is the “after life”, which is eternity, that one needs to be saved. We are all only visitors on this earth. Our life here, whether it is suffering or wealth or happiness is only temporary. The most important thing is the life “afterwards” which is eternity.

Christian: I would say that is a little off. Let me explain, the most important thing in life is to 1. Be right with God before we die, or we will not go to a good afterlife. and 2. to live a life of holiness and righteousness because we love Jesus (not because a religious requirement to do things).

Christian: So based on what I said in the last few posts...
Christian: Would you say you came to Jesus because 1. You were sad and wanted to be happy, or 2. because you wanted a better life, or 3. another more important reason ?
Chatter: No, I would say, Jesus came to me first. He gave me the dream, He talked to me.
He sent me to the Uk to meet the right person.

Christian: well, since that doesnt work for everyone in the world equally... I mean in a general way...and for someone to be saved they would have to all come under the same necessary purpose.
Christian: So, what was the reason you made that decision in that moment of time to come to Jesus?
Chatter: He made me understand that we are all beyond control of our live’s when my brother became very sick.
Chatter: Which means, I was lost and He gave me light.

Christian: It is true, we are weak and frail. Life is short, and things in this life are not in our control.
Chatter: Yes. Then He showed me the right way to live. And that we are all just a passerby here on earth, and that He is the only way to eternal life.
Chatter: Then the burden of the fear of death is lightened.
Christian: Ok, but understanding life is short, and learning to live right... something is missing in the middle there that I am trying to get to… in between those two things and it is why you came to Jesus and how.
Christian: there is a reason the fear of death goes away or is lighter
Christian: and its the thing missing in the middle of your explanation; Its the real reason we get right with God and the way we are to do it.
Christian: do you see it?
Christian: here... let me help... perhaps this will spark the response I am hoping you'll see or give me...
Christian: If I said that life is short, and the truth is that we all die ...

Christian: Can you tell me - why do we all die?
Chatter: Well, when I said that life is short, meaning the wealth that you accumulate in this lifetime is meaningless. The most important thing is the spiritual wealth (that is with God and through Jesus' teaching and the words from the bible).

Chatter: The weird thing for me after I've accepted Christ is, the things that made me want so much before I became a Christian became unappealing and uninteresting for me.
Christian: but people dont see that it is worth value, if they are living their happy life doign what they want...
Christian: that last part you said is true... but those who change their moral lives can do that too. they can just stop wanting or doing things. Whether from guilt or from trying to be a better person.

Christian: So...
Christian: Do you believe you are a good person yourself?

Chatter: After seeing what my brother went through, you can be rich, famous and have everything you want, once you are sick, you will realize that whatever you've gotten in this life becomes meaningless.
Christian: It doesn’t matter who we are or what we have in this life materially or if we have power or fame, we will all one day die. People see that in the end they will take nothing with them to the grave. When people see life is short and can end anytime…they think about it, and in truth, are afraid of death. Not knowing what is on the other side....in real answers. not knowing what is really beyond this life

Chatter: So...I tell people, what have you got to lose ? If all that is mentioned by Jesus is true, you go to Heaven. If it's not true, you don't lose anything by believing !
Christian: I totally agree with that.
Christian: but two things... they dont see that it matters, and they don’t want to try anything when they are happy in the lifestyle and behaviors they are comfortable with…and they dont have a reason to come to Jesus that is compelling enough (based on what you have said to me so far).

Chatter: When I was a buddist and taoist, I believed there is no heaven
Chatter: But now I see what Jesus said is true.
Chatter: That if you worship idols, you will not go to heaven.

Christian: Again, the people you or I speak to about God… do not understand about God and Jesus because they are not interested in spiritual things - because their current way of life. They do not want to change, and do not want to think about God or death.

Christian: Let me ask you about your current life…Do you believe you are a good person yourself? good natured, good at heart, etc...

Chatter: I believe that although I haven't done anything wrong, somehow, I've done something that is not right to other people's view.
Christian: what do you mean by "not doing anything wrong"?
Christian: There is only one solid truth as to what is right and wrong. Other people's beliefs in right or wrong are invalid against that truth.
Chatter: I've not harmed anyone
Chatter: Nor stolen
Chatter: Nor cheated
Chatter: Nor lied
Chatter: Nor drank alchohol
Chatter: Nor smoked
Chatter: Nor commited adultery
Christian: Ok, so you are going through some of the commandments. So you see that....
by comparing ourselves to the only true standard, God's Law, …we are not doing right things, we fail to do them perfectly…we are living wrong in God’s eyes and against his commands.
Chatter: I need to leave in a few minutes

Christian: Well, we are just getting to the point I was trying to get to earlier in our conversation, I hope you will stick around to finish that part. Its taken 30 minutes to get here. lol
Christian: So, can you honestly, before God right now, say that you have never told a lie in your whole life?
Christian: Think about it…children tell lies all the time to get out of trouble for things they did that were wrong and do not want to be punished for.

Chatter: A white lie, yes
Christian: The Lord doesn’t separate a type of lie from other lies. A lie is a lie. So in your whole life... how many lies do you think you have told?
Chatter: After becoming a Christian, I would say, I haven't told a lie
Christian: Really? There is a new research statistic that says the average person lies 3 times every 10 minutes.
Christian: Well, I am not the Judge of the Universe, and I know that everyone lies, everyone makes their own choices. They do what is wrong because they want to cover up something they said or did, or make things look in a better light for their own pride or to gain something from it.
Christian: we do it because of our sinful nature we received from Adam and Eve
Christian: Also, just because we claim Christ as our God, doesn’t mean that we are not making mistakes as we live the Christian life. We will still sin, because we are not perfect. We struggle against sin so that we can crucify ourselves daily and follow in Jesus example of godly living.

Christian: So, how many lies do you think you have told?
Chatter: My mother is sitting next to me, she just said I lied by telling her that my bible chat is an hour long. So what do you think of this ?
Chatter: Was I lying when I told her that the bible chat is an hour ?
Chatter: I was telling her the truth but then, I want to hear you out and therefore takes more than an hour which to her, I was lying.
Christian: that is not anything to do with a lie. That is a change of situation.
Christian: a lie is a decision to deceive someone

Christian: I am glad your mother is there with you. Not many people have the joy of their parents living long lives so they can be around when we (you) are a grown adult.
Chatter: I need to go now.
Christian: ok. Well I just wanted to chat a little and go through information with you. My main goal is to make sure those who claim the name of Christ, are really truly saved. If not, I encourage them to get right with God today. You can find this helpful information at www. NeedGod.com. It’s important...please check it out today.
Christian: because whether someone is saved for real, or deceived about thinking they are saved, when they are not... is so important to find out so one can be assured they are saved.
Christian: I wouldn’t want to miss meeting you in heaven some day!
Christian: I do hope we get to chat again.

Chatter: I will be here next weke.
Christian: I am available on open regular chat during the week. You can find me on the schedule page. Visit my chat anytime!
Christian: I'd love to chat more, and see what you have learned too.

Chatter: Can I come to this chat room class next time?
Christian: well, this class is reserved for only new believers; brand new ones. It’s just to help get people started on the right footing as a new believer.
Christian: if you are saved, and have been for years, this class is not for you... but the open regular chat is available to everyone who wants to ask questions or talk more about salvation and Jesus?
Christian: Hope to see you on the live chat some time!
Chatter: Yes.
Christian: ok. I am there once a week.
Chatter: Thanks! See you next week

Christian: have a good night!!!!
Chatter: My email is @yahoo.com
Christian: ok. I'll swing by to ask you some info about Taoist and Buddhist stuff
Christian: thanks!!!
Chatter: good n ight
Christian: don’t forget to check out www.NeedGod.com... and pray about it.
Christian: May God Bless you!
Chatter: God bless you
Christian: good night


Do you think this guy was an (1) atheist troller, (2) non believer just making things up (3) a former eastern religious person (4) a church goer (5) a saved Christian?
Answer: Only God knows. We can take some things from this discussion and look at what is being said, what was not said, what was not answered, how the person responded, how open they were, how closed or defensive, proud or humble (or humbled), and many other things too, just by their questions, answers, responses, or lack of responses, or lack of ‘reasonable or good’ responses. Perhaps the person is a believer and has never grown, perhaps they just needed help understanding the gospel and how to share it. Well that was what I attempted to do tonight. Explain some things that would either lead them to know how to share the gospel biblically, or lead them through the gospel beginning at the Law, sin, and ending with our need for a Savior to rescue us from God’s righteous coming judgment. Please pray for this person. You can call him amaze-ng. the Lord knows his real name, and real spiritual condition. We are just to bring understanding, light and the gospel message that has the power to save souls.

Happy New Year to you and your family! May you know the Lord more this year, and glorify Him more and more as you tell others about Jesus Christ and their need for Him.

The Twin Towers and the Titanic

An Evangelistic History
By VangyBlue
(C) 2008 All Rights Reserved

I had prayed the day we saw the planes fly into the Twin Towers in New York. I have no idea why my husband was drawn to turn on the tv that morning. We never do that. At the time I was working down town LA and decided to stay home that day (I have faith in God, but only an idiot puts themselves into potential harms way) after watching what happened. I prayed there were born again Christians in the towers Twin Towers who, (through all the people’s hysterics and startling emotions knowing they each would not survive or feared they would die), would step forth, in fear and in hope, tell those around them how they could be right with God, now, before they died, explaining quickly why they needed Jesus, and encourage them to repent and trust in Christ (righ then) for they were all about to step into eternity through death’s door.

I had always wondered if there were faithful believers there who did that. But I also had thought about those who were on the Titanic in much the same way. They were told everything was fine. They could go about their business. But tragedy was just around the corner for both. I had imagined what, (in hope), these Christians would say to those around them, (if there were any) in the Towers that day. I wondered if anyone had reached out with the gospel to those around them; imagining the faces and reactions of the frantic people who became scared for their lives, before they heard the gospel. Many did not get that kind of opportunity and had died instantly or while running through the stairwells.

It is true, that most people never get the chance to grow old or die slowly and have time for reflection on life and God before they pass away. Most people die in tragic situations in which they never saw it coming. Such was the fate of those who were on the Titanic. Over 1,500 people died that night. Something like 3,000 died in the Twin Towers terrorist attacks. I know that over 160,000 die every day in the world, and it makes me wonder if there were any faithful believers who reached out to those who were around them when the tragedy struck. On the Titanic, most were not worried or freaking out about the severity of the situation until it really started creaking and they were on the deck, or were in the lifeboats and saw the ship slowly sinking into the ocean.

We will never know about any faithful witnesses in the Twin Towers, this side of eternity. But today I learned that there was one person on the Titanic who evangelized the lost while it was sinking. In fact, he was even leading bible studies onboard, during the trip, even before the tragedy. This faithful servant of Christ was called John Harper.

The Titanic tragedy happened on April 15, 1912. Four years later, at a Titanic survivors meeting in Canada, a man tearfully gave his testimony recounting how John Harper had led him to the Lord.

Let me tell you about this man John Harper and the impact he had on this one; his last convert. John was a Scottish pastor, who lived in London. He started a small Baptist church just shortly after his wife had died. He, his daughter and a nanny were headed to the Moody church in Chicago to preach for three or four months. They sailed there on a new and amazingly large boat. When the ship hit the iceberg he ran to his daughter and made sure she was put into the life raft with the women and other children. John ran back through the ship. Harper was heard shouting, "Let the women, children and the unsaved into the lifeboats." Survivors reported that Harper took off his own life jacket and gave it to another man. No one thought it was a serious situation, because they had been told that this ship was “unsinkable”. When John gave his life jacket away he said "Don't worry about me, I'm not going down, I'm going up!"

As the musicians were playing ragtime tunes, they quickly began to realize the seriousness of the situation and began playing hymns as the stood on the deck of the ship. They played “Nearer my God to thee”, as the ship started to break apart. The band went down with the ship. The last hymn they played was "Autumn," which concludes with the prayer

Hold me up in mighty waters
Keep my eyes on things above,
Righteousness, divine Atonement,
Peace, and everlasting Love.

As the ship was sinking, those who remained on the boat were tossed into the water, or went down with it. By the time the rescue ships arrived, only 6 people were still alive. One man told the story of John Harper when he was interviewed. He said John drifted over to him holding a round preserver, and gave it to him. John said “You need this more than I do.” Then he asked me “Man, are you saved?” I replied “No sir”. John said “Believe on the Lord Jesus Christ and you will be saved.” And then a wave took him away. Not long after, John drifted back towards me and said “Man, are you saved yet?” I replied “No sir, not yet.” With his dying breath, John said “Believe on the Lord Jesus Christ and you will be saved.” The man recalled, “Shortly after that John sunk into the ocean and drown.” [Thinking of that fateful day he then said] “I was John’s last convert - I have been saved.”

His daughter and the nanny survived, and this man, who got saved, was saved twice that day.

Scripture tells us: "Greater love hath no man than this, that he lay down his life for another..." John Harper cared about the souls of men! I hope you do too, every day…not just when tragedy strikes.

I don’t know about you…But I hope that if my life ends tragically, there are many people around in whom I can holler to about the gospel of Christ that saves. Pray to the Lord today, that you would be a more bold witness than you are today, and that he helps equip you to do it biblically and with patience, and with concern for their eternal soul.

Answering Email from Atheists

Dear Family, Friends, and Fellow seed sowers. Here's another great witnessing encounter. I hope it encourages you to boldly share the gospel, and gives you ideas on what you could say to objections or questions you encounter as you witness for Christ.

This was an email conversation I had with an atheist last night, via a conglomerate evangelism ministry that I volunteer at. I was glad to answer their objections and hope that they would gain some understanding as to why there must be a Creator (justice and righteousness must prevail), as well as how we should have such gratitude towards such a wonderful God and Savior; for doing what He didn't need to do, and for offering something to us that we don't deserve, and not giving us what we do deserve.

Dear Ms. Sanza,

Thank you for visiting our site to investigate Jesus more. Surrendering your life to God is the most important decision anyone will ever make in their life. I am here to help you to know God better. Let me start by answering your questions and sharing some things with you to consider.

Aren’t you lying about a God who doesn’t exist?

God most certainly does exist. All you have to do is look out side and see the creation. Just as a painting has a painter, and a building has a builder, so creation has a Creator. He is the master Scientist. His amazing design weaved into creation shows a brilliant intelligent God. This is so very evident if you look into anything in creation, for example the complexity of DNA and the little microscopic like machinery that makes the tiniest parts of our being work and reproduce. God is so very evident in creation.

Where does God define marriage the "Bible?

God defined marriage when he instituted it in the beginning. See the book in the Bible called “Genesis”. This is where God created man and woman and told them to multiply and fill the earth with more people.

If there was a God he/she/it would never allow the kind of hate and things you people spread on it’s behalf anyway.

First, God does not teach us to hate others. He cares about people and that is why he sends his Christians to share the gospel of Love with everyone. Also, God clearly tells us throughout the Scriptures that He is a “He”. Jesus himself in the flesh was a male. However, the Triune God, as a spirit has no sexual gender. Only created beings do. However when Jesus came to earth he took on the masculine form. We were created in God’s image. The first human created by God was a male.

You should be ashamed of spreading lies about God, instilling fear and hate in the hearts of people...

Believers are not ashamed of “the gospel of truth” because it truly offers “truth and life”. By this, God offers us a personal relationship with Him and it is available through the Savior Lord Jesus Christ. We only share what God has said. *Note: We are not ashamed or feel guilt any longer over our sins, because God has removed our crimes against Him forever, by the work of Jesus on the cross.

God is so kind that he offers us a warning about our sins and where it will lead us. Just as a parent tells a child to stay away from the fire or they’ll get burned. Since we have sinned “one time” in our life… the decision to rebel against God, (committing a crime against Him), has caused us to be in trouble with Him. Serious trouble.

This God who created all we have, all we see and has given us the blessings in this life that are good… He deserves our respect, honor, and has every right to call us to be accountable for our lives. He has every right to govern over all that he has created and make the rules for those he created and placed into the world that he owns and rules over. The fear we have towards God is a good and useful fear, just as one who knows a cliff is up ahead on the path along a mountain trail (ie. it is good to fear going near the edge for it will end their life if they slip and fall to their death). So it is good to fear offending God and causing his wrath to abide upon us, to fear the consequences (because we know we are guilty). However, God in his love, grace and mercy has offered us a way out of this serious situation… We are criminals who will be called to the eternal court room to have justice served in our court case before God. However, we can escape this Judgment Day if we are humble and gratefully receive the free gift God offers in Jesus Christ; forgiveness of all sins, right standing with God and eternal life in Heaven. Instead of what we rightly deserve – eternal punishment in Hell for our crimes against God. What a wonderful God and Savior! We do not deserve what he is offering us. God himself came to earth to save us from himself, from his wrath and the consequences of the Law of sin and death. He is not only gracious to warn us of the punishment that is coming, and telling us what it is, but also to offer us a way of rescue and escape from that deserved fate…by the shed blood of Jesus Christ and his death on the cross, and victory that came from His resurrection.

This information alone should melt your heart towards God, and assist you to move from the realm of hating God, to having gratitude for all that God has done for you through Jesus Christ. You can have a right relationship with God, know God personally and live free from sin (by way of life and liberty and freedom) that is found only in Jesus Christ. Your sins and the guilt you have over them can be removed permanently, and so can your case before God – if you (1) repent of your sins, forsake them and stay away from sinning against God, (2) by trusting in Jesus Christ. So, Turn to Jesus and cling to him as you would a parachute…knowing the jump is near. Perfect love in Jesus Christ casts out all your fears and allows you to rejoice and thank God for all he has done for you, as he has for me too.

To learn more about you crimes against God visit http://www.needgod.com/ and see the real reason why you need Jesus Christ.

I hope this helps you in your search for the truth.

May you be blessed!

PS> If you have any other questions please feel free to email me. I will answer any reasonable and thoughtful questions you have that will assist you in your search for the truth. However, you will find many answers to your questions through the below reference materials which are available online or at local (or online) libraries. So check them all out first. They will probably answer all your questions or objections.

How to Know God Exists http://www.livingwaters.com/Merchant2/merchant.mv?Screen=PROD&Product_Code=160

Intelligent Design vs. Evolution http://www.amazon.com/gp/search?index=books&linkCode=qs&keywords=0882701665

Scientific Facts in the Bible http://www.amazon.com/gp/search?index=books&linkCode=qs&keywords=0882708791

Real Evidence and Answers http://www.amazon.com/gp/search?index=books&linkCode=qs&keywords=0882709054

Reasonable Discussion about Evolution for Grown Ups http://www.livingwaters.com/Merchant2/merchant.mv?Screen=PROD&Product_Code=163

There are no Atheists http://www.amazon.com/gp/search?index=books&linkCode=qs&keywords=0882709224

Again, I hope this helps you as you seek to find the real truth.

God tells us all that" if we will seek him with all our heart we will find Him". And His Truth will set you free!

Friday - An Unexpected Event!

For a few years now I have been using the biblical principles of the Way of the Master evangelism training to reach out to the lost. I think people who study the simple material will find, as I did, that it is not only biblical, but easy and do-able, and useful every day conversations too. And once they taste the good thing the Lord does through biblical evangelism in one-on-one conversations…they end up getting on fire for the Lord and sharing the gospel with strangers and those they know too. A few years ago I was a member of a street team and I longed for Friday nights so I could come out and join fellow believers in the cause of the gospel. Since then, I have joined a few other believers, and recently found some regular team mates to reach the lost on the streets at that fishing hole. We have been reaching the lost and encouraging those who attend church, we come together on one night, and sometimes draw people in, in our own way. It certainly has brought the Lord’s message to this area, and I could not imagine this area not having a Christian influence at least once a week, especially since there are so many people who come through here regularly.

Tonight I was so very tired from a very busy and hard day at work (a temp job I’m at). I was so exhausted from the last couple of days at the job, that I needed some rambunctious music to wake me up and get me to the fishing hole. I chose Toby Mac’s 20 hit remix. It helped me revive as I praised the Lord, and asked him for help tonight and guidance.

Read the rest of the story here: (http://seek180.homestead.com/Blog-Speaking.html) and listen to the recording!

I hope this encourages you and helps you to move out of your comfort zone to reach the Lost if you havent yet as a believer, or havent done so in a while. God bless ><>

FIREPROOF (the movie) helps Prepare you to Protect your Marriage

My whole family and I went to see it together. It is great for preparing people for the struggles that can take place in a marriage; especially when a spouse becomes selfish. If you plan to get married one day, are engaged, or have been married for years...go see it. I highly recommend this movie!

I am very thankful that the movie was a positive option for families to enjoy; without the fear of blasphemous language, nudity, and things that are offensive to God and those who follow Christ. Knowing that Kirk Cameron, who met his real wife on the set of Growing Pains, came to Christ, and has a ministry that proclaims the biblical gospel… I decided to see the movie.

Kirk Cameron plays the leading role, where much of the plot was focused, his professional experience and quality acting made “Fireproof’s” overall a quality movie. Once the story line “grabbed” me… I was sucked in and enjoyed the movie and the lesson they were teaching the audience. There were several very good action scenes, and one that really shocked me. The seriousness was also broken up at the right times with some well-placed moments of humor. There were several twists and turns in the movie which made me realize in the end, that there were actually several plots taking place all along in many of the earlier scenes. This aspect makes me want to see it again so I can see those plots in more detail in the early parts of the movie.This movie hit on more serious and theological elements than other Christian movies out there. The most obvious was the scene where the gospel message was presented. Leading up to this scene, credibility was given to the gospel by having true Christian character being witnessed by others. In one previous scene, Kirk says to one firefighter, about the faith of another, “You may not agree with him, but you and I both know he is the ‘real deal’.” A comment that all Christians should hope others would say about them.

In the scene where Kirk hears the gospel - I was most impressed. The gospel was presented to him in the correct biblical way (as someone who has violated the commandments of God and is in need of redemption). In a great play on words, after hearing the gospel, Kirk vents to his dad about his wife and their problems, and the words he uses to describe his wife are the very words God uses to describe a sinner’s attitude toward God. The holiness of God and the desperation of man in need of a Savior were clearly articulated in this scene. It gave me goose-bumps to be honest. I prayed that any man in the audience who was not saved and treated his wife as Kirk’s character did, (or a man who claims to be a Christian and yet treats his wife that way), would fall to his knees before Jesus Christ in prayer repenting of his attitude and behavior towards his wife, get right with God, and without any pre-requirements he may think of for his wife… put those aside and be the husband he was created and called to be in Christ.

Another Biblical aspect of the movie that I really liked was the clear demonstration of how the gospel truly changes someone. Paul says that we are “new creations” when we are “in Christ” (2 Cor. 5:17). Contemporary evangelical Christianity often promotes the idea that Christians should behave like the world in order to be “relevant.” The attitude of “You’re cool, and I’m cool, and I like Jesus, so you probably would like Jesus too, why don’t you try Jesus and see how cool He is,” has become a common false “gospel” of our day. This often leads to professing Christians continuing in sin and being a part of the world, when in reality the Bible teaches us to be holy, forsaking sin, and be among the world but not like those in this evil world.

In “Fireproof” the message is very clear that sinners are expected to act like sinners, but that the gospel changes one’s desires from loving their sin to hating their sin, and from hating righteousness to hungering and thirsting after righteousness. It achieves this. The reality of how hard the Christian life can be comes out and brings more Biblical credibility to the story. The movie demonstrates well that “the way of the transgressor is hard” (Proverbs 13:15) and that “obeying God often prevents sinful consequences”, and it does it without insinuating that becoming a Christian will fix all the problems that person has or will have in life (as the false gospel does).

Biblical messages are highlighted throughout the movie in the wisdom of mature Christians. The Biblical idea that “love” is not a feeling or an emotion, but is a decision, is demonstrated both in the gospel presentation, as what Christ has done for us, as well as in how we should love others. Forgiveness also is demonstrated Biblically, not as simply forgetting what others have done to us, but as a decision to not hold anything against others or use the things from the past to harm the relationship; just as Christ has done for us.

“Fireproof” succeeds in showing that the gospel is powerful in killing sinful desires and wrong motives, and in saving sinners for the glory of God. While the movie adequately moved me unto the end, I felt like I had been in a Biblically-centered two-hour counseling session when I left. That may sound negative to some, but I don’t mean that in a negative way. The messages were very clear and Biblically sound and demonstrated how powerful the true gospel of Christ is in repairing relationships as well as in saving lost souls.

I would highly recommend the movie to anyone, as well as the “Love Dare” bible study materials for church study groups. Besides the new movies “The Gospel of John” and “Time Changer”, Fireproof is now one of my top favorite Christian movies. May the messages in it reach the hearts and minds of spouses in this country, and world, as well as in Christian homes –for the saving of souls and the complete transformation of personalities and mind frames within the family unit.

Seeds and Souls

Tonight started out slow, there were hardly any people around. Doug and his son began playing the guitar and singing hymns along the store front. Some friends would arrive soon and join us. I ran into some members from my old street team who came to visit at our fishing hole. It was nice to see them again. I didn’t get much time to spend with them because I was waiting for my group to arrive, and because I was tracting and starting some conversations. There would be some great one on one’s to happen this evening.

Before they all arrived, I tracted and had a couple conversations. First, I spoke some youth wearing black clothing and metal music slogans on them. One didn’t believe in what I was saying, but because of “IF”, he listened. His girlfriend seemed to be the most open in the group, and another girl who apparently goes to church several times a week was a little flippant about the things I was talking about in a “not interested” way, but still being polite, and so her friends could talk to me if they wanted to. I know it wasn’t the best conversation, but I hope the things I said 1) planted seeds and 2) wasn’t too much information for them to process.

Next I spoke with a huge group of preteen girls in the middle of the plaza. I handed each of them a YourMomentOfTruth gospel tract and started to talk with them about their ultimate moment before God. I didn’t go into it because they were all in conversation when I walked up to them, and they looked like they were about to head off somewhere. So since this tract is very thorough I knew it would do the talking for me. As I got ready to walk away, one of the girls tried to give the tract back to me, and another one said one of their friends (in the group) was a Christian. I said “that’s great, go ahead and read it anyway” in a nice way.

Then I walked over to two 20ish guys on a bench. They were into their ipod music. I handed them one of the tracts each and said I had just given some to the girls over there. I asked them if they had seen the show. We ended up talking about the good person test. One of the guys is sort of a leader among young people in their catholic church. So I was glad to be reaching out to this guy, who could have an important role in the lives of other youth. We went through the Law, they realized they were in trouble with God. We talked about the courtroom, about Heaven and Hell, about the need to Repent and only trust in Jesus. He paid the fine, and only God deserves the credit/glory for our salvation. Nothing we can do to earn it, it’s a gift.

Then I walked around looking for others and couples to talk to, but the place was pretty bare. When I did see some people they were all coming or going somewhere, so I simply handed out tracts. I think I gave out over 75 of them tonight. At one point, I had to take a break for a while and get something to eat as I had hardly ate all day today.

When others from our group arrived, I took them around with me to talk to others. I took Doug’s son with me to get a feel for personal witnessing. He hung back when I talked to people and just listened. I explained before I started how we start in the Natural and swing to the Spiritual, that we talk about the 10C and the gospel. At one point they were so candid with each other, trying to discuss something when I asked them to “think about it before you answer” and they thought and came to the conclusion that if they did not go to confession before they died they would be in trouble for those things they did. I told them that it is more serious then that, because you cant just ask a judge to forgive you and expect that you wont be held accountable for your crimes. The law must punish sin, and nothing anyone does after that crime could ever make up for what they have done. After discussing it they realized it made sense. I did get to talk about the courtroom analogy and one guy said he would be “grateful”, and I explained how that illustration showed what Christ did for us, while we were his enemies. I said in life you may find someone whom you just cant stand, you wouldn’t warn them if a truck was headed their way and the person would collide with the truck and die. But we are greater enemies towards God, always in rebellion to Him and his Law, yet God did something wonderful to us. Instead of giving us what we deserve, he offers something we don’t deserve – through Jesus.

We had a great conversation with them. We didn’t get to the full ending because his parents were calling them into the shop. They were wanting to stay and finish the conversation, but also had to go into the store to close up with their parents. So I just encouraged them to read the information I gave them, because it would tell them what to do. I also told the mother that I was holding them up, because I was, and I didn’t want them in trouble for it. She smiled at them as they walked into the door. I hope they read the tract tonight and don’t let another day pass before they turn to Jesus for salvation.

I went back to our meeting spot in the plaza and another couple from the group, who had not been on the streets in years, came along with me, and some of the others headed home for the evening. We had a time of prayer before I took off with the other couple. I explained to them, as we walked around searching people to talk to, that since they weren’t familiar with the WOTM training, I didn’t want any “well intentioned” but disastrous situations when I was witnessing… so I told them we talk about Sin and explain what it is and how it is about the Law of God, we talk about judgment and Hell and then share the gospel news of Jesus as Savior. They were used to the Evangelism Explosion methods, which are slightly different. But they were “onboard” with what I was going to say. I asked them to just hang back and let me talk, but if there was something I couldn’t answer and they could (should a question come up and I forget the answer), that they could jump in and help. It would be a blessing! We had a nice time together tonight, praise God!

Well, we walked around and finally met an asian couple, probably in their 20’s. We had a great conversation with them. I did most of the talking, they were really receptive, and seemed to understand their need for God. Even though they, also, had a catholic background. I was amazed that I was able to share some additional things with them, as well as about the court room and our need for Jesus to pay our fine. If my recording is decent quality I might upload it so you can hear it. My battery was running low so I know there was a point in the evening when it shut down, but I am sure this one was recorded. Sometimes its not close enough to the interviewees and therefore background noise overwhelms the audio. The couple with me talked a little after I was done and then I again encouraged them to not let the evening pass before they talk to God and get right with him. There was a little more conversation and then we headed out. I had hoped that all the additional information didn’t overwhelm them, I felt like we stayed too long. It seemed like they were ok with it, because when I talked to the girl before we left I basically said “I hope we didn’t take up too much of their time.” She seemed like it wasn’t a problem, and seemed glad we stopped to talk. So praise God for that!

I handed out more tracts as we walked around. We decided to look for one more group to speak to before we ended the night. We would end up leaving a little after 10pm, and I had got there around 7. I didn’t want to keep them if they were ready to head home. So we headed off, but there were not many left in the area. We walked a little further and I noticed someone waiting at the bus stop around the corner. I said, let’s go talk to them. *I didn’t even think their bus would be arriving soon, but I suppose that is because the Lord had this divine appointment set up for it to arrive after our conversation. I cant remember all that happened, but it was a great conversation…

I handed them a million dollar bill. I told them there was a gospel tract on the back of it, and asked if they had a Christian or religious background. One of them said “catholic”. I then asked them if they remember the 10 commandments, and then how many could they name. I mentioned it could be like a trivia thing. They named several. I told them that it is rare that anyone can think of that many and that they did pretty good with it. We had a candid conversation. I talked about the fact that if they were on the metro bus and some drunk driving person in a truckers rig plowed into them, and they later died in the hospital, or if they died normally sometime in life, they would end up standing before God, and asked if they would be innocent or guilty of breaking God’s law. They realized they would be guilty and in trouble. We talked about it for a while and they realized they would go to hell. We talked more, and then I asked them if they have ever repented and trusted in Christ. They said no. I asked them if they planned to, they said “yes” in a sincere tone, so I knew it was genuine because of all that took place and the looks on their faces. They said that “they agree life is short and that a metro bus accident could really happen”. They were really open and seemed humbled before the Lord. I asked them if they would consider getting right with God before the night was over. Encouraging them to “just talk to God” tonight, before they go to bed. Tell him that they had broken God’s laws, and that they want to turn from their sins and turn to trust in Jesus for their salvation. One guy said “I don’t know how to pray”, it was so sweet to see such sincerity and honesty in a vulnerable kind of way. We talked to them and said that prayer is just talking to God. I encouraged them to talk to God from their heart and encouraged them to do it before the night was over. The couple that was with me, asked if we could pray for them.

I did so, and simply asked the Lord to lead the boys to turn from their sins, give them the strength and help to not do those things again, that they want forgiveness and a right relationship with God. I asked that God help live from now on in a way that pleases God and is according to what they learn in the Bible. I said that they want to place their trust in Jesus for their salvation, in the work he did on their behalf. And mentioned that while they will grow in their faith and make mistakes sometimes as they learn how to become more like the person God wants them to be, more like Jesus, that God would be with them and help them. After the prayer, they prayed with the boys too, and afterwards mentioned to them that Satan would come after them because they are aligning themselves with Jesus. I said that is true, Jesus tells us in the Bible that the world hated him because it didn’t understand him and because they do not care if they offend God by sinning, and while their friends and family may be used by satan to try and get them to not trust in Jesus, they can simply stand strong in their faith, and seek strength from God and guidance, and he will be with them.


It seems two souls have been won to the Lord tonight, and while like Philip and the Ethiopian, we don’t do follow up with them, but do provide information for them to begin their relationship with the Lord on a good foot, as they embark on this eternal journey with the Lord. The internet is a great tool for evangelism, most youth have internet at home these days and can learn about “what now” as they start out in their new life at peace with God, and desire to know how to follow him. So we offer information online to help them get started; which also encourage them to get plugged into a church near them. If their parents are in a religion, then they have access to discipleship courses and bible studies online through our sites that will help them grow in their faith, while living under their parents’ roof.

We chatted on the way back to our cars and “rejoiced over the seeds sown and the souls won”. Imagine, what souls could have missed the gospel and better understanding of their need for Jesus had we not come out to reach souls tonight. I thank God that we all came out; tired or energized…we were there, and may the Kingdom grow because of our faithfulness in planting seeds. Glory to God!

Closing notes: It’s important to pray for good conversations when you are getting other believer’s feet wet in evangelism. Tonight, I tried to find young people who seemed nice (and probably open to talk to people they don’t know) so they could experience a good gospel conversation. I am so grateful to the Lord for the conversations tonight. I really was blessed to be part of the Lord’s work in all those young people’s lives.

It is interesting that most of the catholics I spoke to tonight made the distinction that they were catholic not Christian. It is rare to find that in America. You will find there is a true with catholics outside of America, but rarely in America because they think they are Christian. The westernized version of it is pretty watered down, run of the mill stuff, but still requires religious duties and tasks to some degree. That has been my experience anyway.


Thank You Lord! There were a few good conversations. And we got tracts into the hands of people who wouldn’t have been touched by God tonight had, we not been there. Please pray for all those who got tracts; that they read them and consider what is in it soberly and sincerely. That those whom we talked to have a better understanding of why they need Jesus… and pray that they will get right with God because of its clarity and their need for Jesus. Pray for the two boys (one was named Kevin and the other was Erling or something like that) who made professions tonight and desired to be right with God. Pray that their hearts desire was genuine and that they did indeed repent and trust in Christ. Pray for their strength as Satan comes to try and destroy their new faith, and that they will seek strength and assistance from God to get through those situations and be faithful to the Lord.

Entitled: "A Day with Youth", or, "Any good tract will do"

Friday, April 18. 2008

I love daylight saving time. The sun is up longer and I get to go out and talk to people about the Lord, whom wouldn’t be out and about if the sun was already setting. The young people are still out and it seemed I ran into them more than adults, though there were a few there; including an African woman with her children who said she was saved. And some older Jewish or Catholic people on a bench who received tracts from me.

There were people lined up by the hundreds to see a new movie, and I walked down the line handing out two different ones that I had from FellowshipTractLeague. While these fail in comparison to the artwork that pops from the Living Waters tracts, they are still useful in reaching people with the word of God. Whenever people asked me what they were, I would say “They are gospel tracts about Jesus”. Some took them and some did not, (probably thinking it was cult materials), and only a couple of them gave it back. I gave out probably a hundred or so tracts in the line. I would say “Ladies, here’s something to read while you are in line. And I’ll give you [a friend standing with them] a different one.” That seemed to help get them into people’s hands.

I finished with that and then walked down the sidewalk to the furthest light handing out tracts. Again, many people reject them because they think it is material coming from a cult, or religious people. When I got to the light I ran into three 21 year olds, who were gathered around a bench. We had a conversation based on the question on the front of the tract “Are you a good person?” We went through the gospel and spoke about a few good questions. I reiterated that they need to do two things – Repent and Trust in Jesus work on the cross. I said this a few times towards the end and encouraged them to not only think about this and read the tract, but also to do it, since we are not guaranteed another day. These guys are the typical young men in the downward spiraling current generation. Please pray that they will see their sins as God does and that they need to get right with Him - and do it now.

Ran into three small pre teen boys who were on little push scooters, as I stood next to the rose lady. I asked if he had got one of the tracts and he said no. He asked what it was about. I told him and we started a conversation into discussing about the after life. He said he was afraid of Hell and doesn’t want to go there. The one boy was very interested in what I was saying,. I was able to get some important thoughts into the kid to consider in all seriousness. He asked some good questions - bright for such a young kid. His friends were going towards an alley on their scooters (cause they couldn’t afford a rose from the lady selling them) and the other friend lost interest in what I was saying. However about a minute after the other kids had left, this kid was still there, but was starting to look like he should take off and stay with his friends. At one point during the conversation the tract I gave him had fell to the ground. He picked it up quickly and held onto it. After the friends were gone, I wrapped up what I was saying and told him the information in the tract will tell him how to get right with God and how he can get into heaven. And then told him to go catch up to his friends. *I didn’t want him to be in trouble for not sticking with his friends, and didn’t want them to “bag” on him for talking about religious things. I believe he will read the tract. Please pray for him.


I then saw, near where the line was for the movie, three other guys (they looked very similar to the ones I just spoke to). As I got closer I realized these guys were younger and were not the same people. LOL. So I talked to them as I offered them tracts. One of the guys said He KNOWS he is a good person. That was a great entrance (to the gospel) if I ever saw one! We had a good conversation about the fact that we are not good, and that we need Jesus. He had a few questions but because the Law always does its work, there were no objections to what was being said. However, he thought he was a good person and I took him down the road to show him again that he wasn’t. When we ended the conversation I told him to not only consider these things and repent and trust in Christ, but also encouraged him to see that he isn’t good and that is why he needs Jesus. I questioned him and said “You are what?” and he seemed perplexed for a minute and then I said (to put it in his head as reality) “Your not a good person, you’re a bad person just like the rest of us.” And he had the look of ‘oh yeah, that’s true’ on his face as we parted. Please pray for him too.

I talked to a group of kids who were coming from around an alley way (in a different area than the last kids I spoke to) that leads through the open mall area. I took a leap of faith and handed one a gospel tract. The others were not really interested at the time. He stopped to ask me about it, and the other kids stopped and stayed to listen. While I did not think they would be open to talk to me, they were. This was probably one of my best conversations with young people about spiritual things. We talked about things from Creation and creator, Heaven and Hell, what Hell is really like, The universe and any possibility of life on other planets, aliens and the scene from the movie The Last Mimzy where the people unzipped themselves from alien looking outfits designed to help them breath and live on a toxic planet, how the scientists are traveling the universe. How there are 3 heavens and how interesting it would be if the reached that third one in the outerspace area and “boing” hit the wall where God is behind. A discussion about were Homosexuals that way by choice, what about scientology (the religion of those who live lives of make believe in Hollywood). We also talked about how we cant earn our way to heaven by works or making up for bad things, talks of history and archeology matching what Scripture already said, Nostradamus & false prophets, scripture and fulfilled prophecy, God’s word preserved through the ages as History, The number of manuscripts (42,000 and pieces) compared to the next best preserved piece of literature in antiquity (ancient history) which is the Illiad with a mere 600 copies. As well as a lot of other things. *Not all of this in the exact order as mentioned, but each question seemed to lead them to the next questions until they seemed to have all their questions answered.

The older boy didn’t seem too interested at first and kind of silently flippant about the conversation, but they were all pulled into the conversation (by themselves) a couple of times, and each of them had some questions that left them with thought provoking answers from God’s perspective scripturally. They asked about whether I believe Jesus is really coming back some day. I started to explain about how it will happen and how it could be any time. Some believers think in the next 50-80 years. One of them did not really know anything about the rapture and I said “really? Are you pulling my leg or do you really not know?” he said he honestly didn’t know. “I said ok, well I don’t want to explain something in a dumbed down way as if you don’t know something. So that is why I asked.” And he appreciated that I said that and felt that way. I probably gained some respect from him at that moment, but believe I had it before then anyway. It just solidified his feelings towards me at that moment.

We talked about one of the most misunderstood truth’s about judgment day – that not all people will stand before God. “Christians will not be judged, because our sins were already judged and dealt with when Jesus die don the Cross. Only those who die without Jesus (repenting and placing their faith in Jesus alone) will be the ones who stand before God on Judgment Day. So if you end up there, you know where you are “going” after you stand before Him”. They also got to hear the Law and Grace and saw their need for Christ. I encouraged them that if they all made that decision to get right with God they could all read the Bible together and help each other be the people God wants them to be. And its not like they will be religious crazy people if they become Christians, they will simply be people who don’t need to cuss, or commit the sins God says is wrong. They can live right by God because He will empower them to do what is right, by the Holy Spirit. I told them the importance of getting right today, before they go to bed, and that just as kids get killed in school shootings, by drunk drivers, or any other tragic and unexpected way, so too could each of them, as we are not guaranteed a long life on earth. So we ended the conversation and we all shook hands. One of the guys said that he “learned more today than he has in a whole year of high school.” Hopefully they all took the conversation to heart, and get right with God. I noticed that even the one older kid who didn’t really believe in God, seemed to see at the end of the conversation that God is real and he is the one in Scripture, based on the evidence in truth that I shared. And I know the gospel which has the power in itself to convict people and convert them to faith in Christ will keep this conversation in them (even as a seed) that is able to produce salvation if they repent and trust in Christ. Please pray that they do, and will grow in solid biblical faith and holiness.


I then went back through the main area and started handing out tracts. Some older high school girls were coming towards me in goth / rock and roll style clothes, and a guy friend (much older than they) was with them. He had tattoos everywhere visible. While the girls took the tract, the guy gave it back, and said he cant take it because of his belief’s. I started to inquire about that, and then he saw some security police coming towards him as he was showing me his neck and ear area (that had a tattoo what looked like a version of God or Jesus) as he proclaimed “but I do believe in God”. I was about to move into the conversation on that segue when the guards came up to him to escort him about 3 more feet away, off the property. I did not realize I was holding him up from leaving. Oops! It was by their direction he was to leave. Apparently they were going to have him arrested for smoking marijuana and causing problems down near the theater. The dark clothed girls were there slightly stunned standing in place. I asked what happened and they told me. I said in a concerned and honest way (as I gave them another tract) “well if he goes to jail he will certainly want to have this. Please give it to him.” And they emphatically said they would. I am sure they were concerned about him, but so goes our current generation of young people. No guidance, discipline, and good teachings in school or at home and laxed or changed laws lead them to be the worst rebellious generation in our nations history.

I walked away towards a small pack of friends gathered and talking, between the area I was tracting earlier and an ice cream shop. A 12 year old girl was hanging out with these who were a little older than she was. At first I thought she was a boy because of her haircut and undeveloped body. I approached the group and offered them tracts, and told them what it was about. I asked if any of them thought they were good. She did. And so began our conversation.

This young girl listened intently as I shared spiritual things with her, discussing the Law and how God sees her. I did not have any objections but she sure was taking it all in. She of all her friends, in particular, seemed quite moved by the message, and stood there firmly taking in what I was saying. And when the friends were walking away about, 4 minutes later, to go associate with some other friends (to my surprise, it happened to be the older gothic girls who were with the older boy who got into trouble a while back). She stood there wanting to continue hearing how she is not good according to the Law and that she would stand before God. She looked back to see how far her friends were from her, as they started calling her. I told her "go catch up with your friends, but read that tract to learn what else I wanted to tell you." Please pray for her as well as everyone else I spoke to, (and tracted!), tonight.

And remember, even if you don’t have the best looking gospel tracts, they can spark great conversations – just look at the ones I had tonight for proof of that. The Spirit will work with the Word of Truth to convict and convert. And the tracts can stay with them longer than we can. They serve as reminders, as do our conversations and those seeds can sprout into salvation of souls.

Have you shared a gospel tract with someone today?

*If you do not have some, you can get free ones at www.FellowshipTractLeague.org or low cost ones at www.YourMomentofTruth.com (these are popular and great tracts that will not only spark great conversations in a one on one situation, but they offer a solid and complete gospel message even if they are left holding a cash tip for a waitress, or simply handed out).

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Strange Encounter

I got hit up at a store in Down Town LA a few months ago to sign a Marriage Protection Amendment petition. How did I end up there you ask? Yes, yes, for those who know me...of course it was when I got lost and needed directions to the freeway (hehehe). The guy outside the store asked me to sign it. Well shortly after that saw another guy doing that in the area I freqent for the gospel. But since I already signed... I didnt sign twice. It wouldnt count.

However, it happened to be the night I was with an evangelism buddy and it was our "evangelism night" (Friday evenings). We talked to the guy and found out he isnt religious but he is doing the petition along with other ones that also lean towards Faith/Values voter concerns.

They guy thought he knew my evangelism buddy and he kept guessing where he might know him from. Finally we both kind of chuckled at the guy because we know he had to have seen us both here in this very location before. That is where he saw us. We hand out tracts and talk to people, lol. So, we started talking to him. During the conversation something sounded "off" about what he believed about life and creation, (we found out he had a very wacky view of life and stuff we have never encountered this kind before). I am still seeking refuting information to help me in the future should I run into someone who thinks like this guy. If you have run into some wacky stuff before just let me know and I'll see if you can assist me with this "special" case.

We did find out that he had some weird view outside of the goofyness that was about God being everything and in everything. We tried all kinds of things in the discussion to reach the guy. We just hope that the information we gave him will melt his hardened heart a little bit and perhaps the Lord's word will become truth to him one day while he is still alive.

Well,after that last conversation of the night, I was able to connect with a group in Australia via the internet. They had ran into people with this one particular thing in common. They told me what this is about and how to refute it, and get them to put up a white flag and listen to the Law and their need for the Gospel and Christ Himself. The message is important, but the Spirit is the one who works in the heart of men to convict and convert them. So, I just pray that our conversation with this older gentleman will stick in his mind and be a seed that will assist others in reaching him with the gospel and his need of Christ.
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Witnessing Encounter

I met with a buddy today to share the gospel in town. When he got there we prayed and took off. Our time was limited because we both had to get home.

After chatting for a few minutes and then beginning in prayer, we spotted some fish nearby. I had a great conversation with two younger girls; 14 and 16. They were sitting down and so when I approached them and handed them a MDB I asked if they have a Christian background. They said “no, a catholic background”; (I am surprised they knew there is a difference). I asked if they were familiar with the 10 commandments. They said yes. I asked if they could name any of them. They named about 4. I asked if they thought they were good people. They said yes. I asked if they have ever told a lie (yes), stolen (yes – after realizing cheating on a test was stealing), blasphemed (yes); I told them the seriousness of that and what God says in that commandment about it.

I also asked if they thought sexually about another person (knowing they are in the crazy modern world i said "with a boy or a girl"), and then they learned that lust is part of the adultery commandment. I also told them what the original word “Pornania” means (all kinds of sexual perversion: sexual thoughts, magazines, pictures, sex before marriage, homosexuality, affair after marriage, etc) . They learned what Jesus said about it too. They asked about homosexuality and why it was wrong. I told them it was wrong because God said so. God created us to be united as a man and a woman only. But because of our sinful natures we want to do what is against God or in rebellion to him and what is right. We want to do those things and gravitate towards them.

I then asked if they have ever hated someone. They said no, been upset but not hate. I asked even when they were younger and had a fit cause they didn’t get their way, or yelled at their parents that they hated them or any other kind of situation in life, but they couldn’t recall it. So I told them I would give them the benefit of the doubt on that one, but that they might be guilty of that. I told them that these were only some of the commandments. I asked if they thought they were good people. They said yes. Then one of the girl’s phones ran. I waited for her conversation to be over. It only took a minute. Apparently their parents would be there in a minute to get them. So I tried to fast forward the conversation as best I could.

We got back to the question. They said they were good. I said that they admitted to doing those things, and when they die and stand before God they will be guilty, (their parents were walking towards us at this time), I said (as they stood up, I kindly yet firmly said) “these are serious crimes, and I don’t want you to go to hell because of them. God did something for you so you don’t have to go…. Read the back of that (tract) and you can find out what that is” and I thanked them for their time. And they ran off. My teammate gave them a “are you a good person” in Spanish mini tract too as they were leaving.

We prayed for them and thanked the Lord for the opportunity to reach out to them.

"A Jewish lady who might be searching for the truth."

Valentines Evangelism 2008

What a valentines gift to God! I had the privilege of talking to a nice lady on the phone today about the gospel and her need for Jesus. I have been confined to my house and not far from a bed or chair for a week because my back is messed up. A nerve in my lower back got pinched and I landed on the floor last week. It has been sore and painful ever since. Today it is stiff. Anyway, I am praising God an rejoicing in a conversation I had on the phone just now.



I just spent 30 minutes on the phone with a girl who called to reach someone from our old church plant. And I am not exactly sure how or why she called our number because of the fact that after talking to her I found out she was Jewish and while not exactly interested in Jews for Jesus she was open enough for me to talk to her about the gospel message via the good person test. I was SHAKING physically the whole time I was on the phone with her, and maybe even my voice too.


"A Jewish lady who might be searching for the truth."


When she called I told her she had the wrong number, but then I remembered that my phone was listed online as the contact number to our old church. So I asked if she was trying to locate a bible study nearby between such and such towns. And she said well more towards Woodland Hills. I told her I new a lady who is a friend of mine who leads the worship music at a church in that area and gave her my friends home number. She then asked me, seeing as how I was personable on the phone, if I new of any Jewish Christians. I told her that I did and I know of a Christian who talks to Jewish people all the time and I know of an Israelite who became a Christian. She seemed confused about that and I told her that a lot of Israelites are Jews, but this one became a Christian. She asked if his wife was Jewish. I said no she is Christian too, not of Israeli descent. I told her I didn't have their phone number, but their brother in law's and if she could hang on while I got into my computer contacts I could give the email info to her. I couldn't get in so I asked her to call me back in a few minutes. So she did! I thought that incase she isn't saved and she is Jewish I would probe a little and then ask her if I can tell her what Christians believe and why people need Jesus. Well after I gave her the info and then realized she was Jewish I asked if I could tell her about that and she said sure.


I told her it would just take a couple minutes unless she had questions then its up to her how long we talk. She said ok. So I went through the good person test with her and told her that we usually look at man's standard for goodness but we need to look at the 10 commandments – God's Law. So we went through it… she didn't think that someone who said a lie in the past was a liar unless they continually lie. I told her that someone who murders another person is still a murderer and the law will catch them and they will still go to court to be punished for it. Then she said "well that is because there can be no reconciliation between them" and I agree with that but I told her that Jesus said if we hate some one we are guilty of murder in our heart. I asked her if she has stolen anything and then moved on to lust. She said she has lusted after someone at sometime as we all have, and I told her that Jesus said if we do that we have committed adultery in our heart. I said looking at pornography was the same thing – its filth and sex of the mind. She kind of understood what I was saying but because one didn't do the "act" itself she didn't think it was adultery. I asked her about Blasphemy if she has ever used God or Jesus name irreverently and she said she had in the past. I told her that is serious because you know the Law and told her what God says about blasphemers. So I told her how God sees her (I never got her name), and I told her that when she dies and stands before God he will judge her according to the Law. I asked about her guilt she said she wouldn't be. And I said we just looked at the Law and you are guilty of those things. I told her that God knows all about us our thoughts and even things we do in secret. It will all be laid out before Him and it will be a guilty verdict. I said if God is a good and Just Judge would he send you to heaven or to hell. She said she didn't know for sure. I said If you were in court for a serious crime and the evidence was there… wouldn't the judge sentence you to jail? She said yes. I said so too will God have to send sinners to hell for their crimes against Him.


So at this point she ran me down some bunny trails but I kept a mental marker of where we were so that I could get back to explaining why people need Jesus, including her. The things she talked about and asked seemed like someone who is trying to put pieces together but not really believing some of what I was saying.


During that part of the conversation we discussed things like:


She did not think Jesus was God but he was a man. I explained how he was of the God head (explained the trinity to her) and how the Word came to earth to represent God in the flesh by taking on human flesh. God wrapped himself in human flesh so that he was 100% human and 100% God. Its like us putting on a backpack and it adds to us. I explained that Jesus had to take on the flesh of man, because Adam sinned and therefore a perfect man must come and take the place of the sinful man – and Jesus did this on the cross. I explained that there must be the shedding of blood for the forgiveness of sins and that we are told this in the days of Moses and the Temple. But she asked me about David sinning and those in the time of Job where there was no shedding of blood. I took her to the Garden and explained how they did know of the animal sacrifice necessary for their sins because of the clothing God gave Adam and Eve, and Abel's sacrifice too. However she did not believe that and said that while the New Testament does say that the shedding of blood is required for the forgiveness of sins. I explained how all the blood shedding in the temple and sprinklings were all shadows and symbolic of the perfect One who was coming – the Messiah who would save us from our sins. And that is Jesus Christ.



As we talked said told me that she doesn't believe that God will judge people by His Law, and that she doesn't believe she needs to be saved from coming wrath because she doesn't believe there is any. I tried to explain that a person guilty of a crime would be punished by the judge and sentenced, and so would God for those who violate His Law. It's of high value to God and it reveals his Character and who He is. We fall short of that standard and that is why we need Jesus to forgive us of our sins and save us. I explained that Jesus went into God's courtroom and paid our fine. It's our decision to take that fine out of gratitude and because the fine would be paid, justice would be served and we can leave free. It doesn't mean we aren't guilty. She said so do you believe in human sacrifice then? I said no not in the sense you might be thinking. See Adam sinned and he was no longer perfect. He couldn't pay for his sins, Only a perfect substitute (like a kinsman redeemer) could pay her fine. The shedding of blood was only until that last Passover when all the lambs were being slain and God took his perfect lamb Jesus Christ and put him on the cross alter for mankinds sin. So a perfect substitute and its blood shed could pay for our sins, and that is what Jesus did. She asked about those who don't know Jesus and I told her that if they are not saved they will not go to heaven. If they haven't repented of their sins, turned from them unto obeying God, and asked forgiveness for all their sins, and also put their trust in Jesus Christ who was the fine payer they would be in trouble on the day of God's Wrath on Judgment day after the resurrection (Jews know about this resurrection teaching from OT times even Mary and Martha knew). I told her that no one wants to be judged by God and go to hell, but if people aren't saved they will go there. And I told her that this is the reason we warn others about it and tell them about Jesus so they don't go there.



She asked me about Christians and Nazi's and those who don't know Jesus. And she asked me about what I do as a Christian living my life. I explained about Jesus being my Master and that I cant belong to him (ie being his slave) unless I belong to him. He bought me with his blood on the cross. I cant do anything for him if I don't belong to him. When I get saved I belong to him, therefore I love him and I serve him. She asked if I have to do good deeds and tell others about Jesus, and she wanted to know how I do it. I told her that Nazi's were not Christians.
I told her the catholic religious people were involved and others too. She said no Christians were too. And I said, let me clarify something here so that you know what I am saying….There may be people who call themselves Christians but they aren't. They are false converts or fakers. For whatever reason they have they like the thought of heaven and going there so they believe in Jesus but are not saved (I defined that word again with her). I told her no true Christian would be involved in something like the holocaust. I told her many are deceived and think they can go to church or be good people or do good things and they will end up in heaven, but that is not the truth. She asked if I was a missionary. I told her no just a Christian. She seemed confused. I told her that I do the things that I do because I love God and out of gratitude. I don't do them for my salvation. I live my life growing in my faith by reading and applying God's word the Bible to my life, and I tell others about Jesus. I told her that I am not good and I don't do good things, but because I am a new creation in Christ, God is able to do good things through me. She didn't really understand that so I explained it more. And then I told her that you can spot the false converts by their fruit by their life and how they live. Eventually you will see that they are not growing in the faith and are just claiming to be a Christian. We talked about this for a few minutes and then I closed the conversation. She still thought something about works but I told her that if I have faith you will see my works and my growth in the faith will be evident because it will radiate from me. I will share the gospel with others and become more godly. But I told her that we wont know about many of the false converts until the day of Judgment when they stand before God. I told her that Christians wont stand before God on Judgment day for judgment. Because Jesus work on the cross and his blood have already paid for our sins. Only those who aren't right with God; those who didn't obeying the gospel command while they were on earth will be the ones judged. Scripture tells us that after we die there is only Judgment awaiting.



She told me that she didn't believe several things I was saying including about the blood and coming wrath and she claimed it wasn't biblical. I challenged her that it certainly was Biblical and God wrote it so it is true. And that my salvation experience is proof of it, I am a new creation and I serve my Savior. And I then told her that now she knows what we believe. I also told her that she also has the contacts she requested and can get in touch with them to find a Christian church or a Jewish temple or whatever she is looking to find and I wished her well.


It was a nice conversation and I hope she is blessed by it.


I then called the brother of the Jewish guy and left him a message about it... because I gave her his number incase she couldn't get a hold of his brother in law. And I wanted him to know what we discussed so they have an idea of what to say to her if she does call to talk more about it.


I didn't want to mess anything up and was subconsciously praying for God's help. I was shaking like a leaf the whole time and even for a time after I got off the phone with her. I wanted to share what we believe in love and be helpful and kind to her on the phone, and hoped that she would have some truth of scripture planted in her for whatever God had in store for her next or later in life that would make everything click into place and whala… salvation.


I thank the Lord for sending that young lady to me today via phone, and hope that some of the things that I said will stick with her and bud forth one day after more studies and understanding of scripture so that she can turn to Jesus and be saved.

*I am not perfect at conversations about extra things like those I had with her, but I do my best to answer the questions and the reason we are to be in the Word regularly so that we can go to verses and discuss subjects well with those seeking answers.

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UPDATE:
I have been thinking about what that lady said about blood in the OT and I ran across this information today that reaffirmed what I was saying was true. She must not have been taught the full verse or the full context of the chapter in the OT that deals with "Atonement for Sin" Here is what Leviticus says:

Leviticus 17:11 says, "For THE LIFE OF THE FLESH IS IN THE BLOOD: and I have given it to you upon the altar to make an atonement for your souls: for IT IS THE BLOOD THAT MAKETH AN ATONEMENT FOR THE SOUL."

GOD prescribed that the blood of an animal belonged to Him and was to be used to make atonement for sin. Sin damages the human soul by separating us from GOD. Because GOD is holy, He cannot tolerate the presence of sin. GOD established a substitutionary system in which the blood of an innocent, sacrificed animal reconciles us with Him. And it was all "temporary" until it would be fulfilled and done with by the one who would take away the sin of the world. It was all based on forward looking to the Messiah who would be the perfect and final substitute for the sin of the world and the sins of those who get saved.

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I just pray that the lady I spoke to will wonder about this and go back and read Lev 17 to see what scripture really does say about the blood. Its not just about not drinking or eating blood as she said it was. I knew it wasnt, but I just hope that she is curious enough to go and read it... so that all we spoke about will make sense to her in a miraculous way and she will come to Jesus for forgiveness and accept his blood shed on her behalf... and that she gets saved.