Talking to a JW at Coffee Time (1 of 3): The Resurrection and Eternal Punishment

A few weeks ago, when I was reading my Bible at Coffee Time, a man came up to me expressing his joy to see me reading the Scriptures. I instantly asked him, “What church are you from?” He told me that he was a former Catholic who converted to become a Jehovah’s Witness. He gave me a tract and used my open Bible to point me to some passages in the Psalms. I invited him to sit down and he proceeded to share more.

He told me about the wicked and the righteous and asked, “But who are the righteous?” I quickly interjected, “That is a very good question. One of the clearest descriptions of what it means to be righteous is found in the Sermon on the Mount in Matthew.” I showed him Matthew 5:48, in which Jesus says, “You therefore must be perfect, as your heavenly Father is perfect.”

How to become righteous became our topic of conversation. He kept wanting to talk about the end times and the evil of this world, but, by the grace if God, I kept bringing us back to this topic: “how can a sinner become righteous?” We must be careful not to jump from trail to trail without ever making progress on any one of them. Sometimes this calls for a boldness to say something like, “Actually, I don’t mind talking about Y, but before we move on, can we spend some more time talking about X? I think we left that issue unresolved.”  

I opened up Ephesians 2:8-9 and we studied these verses. We spent quite a bit of time on how to be made acceptable to God. He insisted that we are not only saved by our faith in the work of Christ, but that our works contribute to gaining a right standing with God. I argued from the Scriptures that justification is by faith alone in Christ alone. Though agreeing with me at first, he soon learned that he does NOT really believe that.

Before he left, I took him to the place Jesus claims to be Jehovah when he says, “before Abraham was, I am” (John 8:58). He did not agree that this was a claim to Diety, but our time had run out. We exchanged numbers to meet again. Accordingly. we met this morning for about two and a half hours. Much was said so I will limit this post to a summary of the first main topic we discussed: the resurrection and eternal punishment. I plan to do part two and three of this talk in two separate posts (on Watch Tower literature and the Divinity of Jesus).

The Resurrection and Punishment: Would a Loving God Punish People Forever?

Upon arriving he started talking about God’s plan to be with man. I agreed with him (furthermore, I endorse his approach as a great starting point for sharing the Gospel). He explained much of Genesis 3 with precision. He taught accurately about death, that is, until I heard him say, “death is like sleep.” Before our meeting, I had just read a Watch Tower tract that said ”the dead are not conscious” so I was curious to know his stance on the resurrection of the dead and the eternal condition of those who are NOT righteous.

He took me to Ecclesiastes 9:5, which says, “For the living know that they will die, but the dead know nothing, and they have no knowledge, and they have no more reward, for the memory of them is forgotten.” The dead have no knowledge – point taken. The OT description of Sheol is the place of the dead.

Be that as it may, the Scriptures also teach that there is a point at which dead are raised. I took him to John 5:28-29, where Jesus teaches that, “an hour is coming when all who are in the tombs will hear his voice and come out, those who have done good to the resurrection of life, and those who have done evil to the resurrection of judgment.” I argued that all people will be resurrected – some to life, others to judgment. He eventually agreed, but what does the ”resurrection of judgment” mean?

We went to Daniel 12:2. It is written, “And many of those who sleep in the dust of the earth shall awake, some to everlasting life, and some to shame and everlasting contempt.” I argued that at the resurrection the dead awake, and are not put to death, but to everlasting shame (they do not arise from sleep to go back to sleep). Whatever else can be said, it is an eternal condition of conscious shame. He would not agree, but argued that dying is “punishment enough.” He then stepped away from the text and asked me pointedly, “When disciplining your child, would you take you child’s hand and put it on the burner of an oven to be burned?” I responded, “No.” He replied, “Would a loving God make someone burn forever? I said, “A Holy God would punish people eternally for sin. For they are sinning against God and He is Holy. In fact, He is infinitely Holy, so the punishment of those who sin against Him will be infinite.” I qualified this and talked about fire as a metaphor for real punishment. I also talked about the infinite nature of God’s holiness and our need to perceive God not only as a parent, but as a Judge.

He continued to tell me that it is impossible for a loving God to punish people forever. I told him, “I don’t want to believe in the doctrine of eternal punishment . . . it is a sad doctrine. It does not tickle me. I do not find pleasure in it. It is hard; but it is true, therefore I must believe it. Jesus taught it. I must subject myself to the Scriptures.”

I took him to Matthew 25:41-46. Verse 46 says, “And [the unrighteous] will go away into eternal punishment, but the righteous into eternal life.” The New World Translation says, “eternal cutting off.” This is a terrible translation that should be cut off itself (and replaced with “punishment”). Whatever the case, unless you play hermeneutical gymnastics you cannot escape the doctrine of eternal punishment in this passage. Even if you did call it “cutting off,” it keeps happening and it is an unpleasant experience to say the least. The punishment is as eternal as the life. The life is as eternal as the punishment. Both are unending. If the punishment is not conscious, why would the life be? interpreters need to be consistent here.

I asked him about the devil and his angels that enter into the eternal fire in Matthew 25:41. He responded, “That means they are consumed by the fire – destroyed. They are no more.” He continued to argue that fire completely destroys things. I responded by reminding him that this is not always the case. I referred him to the burning bush (Ex. 4) which, though it kept burning, was not consumed. My example did not satisfy him. I tried telling him that literal fire is not necessarily Jesus’ main point – his main point is that hell is a bad unending condition (to say the least).

He would not agree. I showed him Revelation 14:10-11 which teaches that “the smoke of their torment goes up forever and ever, and they have no rest, day or night, these worshippers of the beast and its image.” He wanted to talk about the beast, but I would not let the conversation go that way for long. I asked him, ”how can they have NO REST if they are destroyed?” He was silent. I said, “they have no rest day or night because they are awake and being tormented continually.” Again, he could not believe this because of his twisted concept concerning how it is that ”God is love.”

Ironically, he took me to Revelation 20:10 which actually says that the devil, the beast and the false prophet will be “tormented day and night forever and ever.” When he read it, he stopped in his tracks and said, “Oh, yes, you will see this one the same way.” I said, “Tim (fake name), it says ‘forever and ever,’ how else can you interpret that? It is clear. I don’t know what else to say to you? I just don’t know what to say?” He said, “I don’t know what to say either.”

We simply could not agree on this doctrine. I realized that his view of God and Scripture is totally dominated by the systemic theology and teachings of the Watch Tower society rather than a natural reading of Scriptures. (The Watch Tower organization became our next topic of conversation.) Even when confronted with the truth that the punishment of the devil, the beast and the false prophet “will be tormented day and night forever and ever” (Rev 20:10), he refused to believe that “forever and ever” really meant forever and ever.

One explanation for his unbelief is the very passage he read aloud to me in our conversation: “the god of this world has blinded the minds of unbelievers, to keep them from seeing the light of the gospel of the glory of Christ, who is the image of God” (2 Cor 4:4). Oh that he would see the light and live! 

May the Lord remove his blindfold. And may the Lord forever remind us that salvation is all of grace.

Handing out a NT on the TTC

By God’s grace I graduated this past Sunday night! On the Thursday before that Sunday, I took my last exam at the TBS extension site in Guelph. With the desire to make a surprise visit to my fiance in Toronto, I plotted to take the GO bus and TTC to Toronto. I knew I may meet someone along the way so I packed my NT’s with Gospel tracts just in case.

I didn’t meet anyone on the GO bus, but found myself waiting in a really long line at York U (transfer), waiting for my TTC bus. A young man joined the line asking me, “Is this the line for bus 60?” I confirmed that it was and asked him, “Are you a student here?” He said, “No, I am a student from Seneca, but we have a joint program with York.” From this point we talked for a long time about his studies and his stay in Canada, for he is Cambodian and has only been in Canada for one year.

He asked me where I went to school and I told him Toronto Baptist Seminary. I told him that I am training to be a Christian pastor. If my memory is correct, I believe he asked me what I study. I told him, “The Bible.” I asked, “Do you know what the Bible is? Have you heard of it?” “Yes,” he replied and the conversation moved on to other things. Soon the bus came and we were separated in a jam packed bus.

However, he waited outside the bus for me at Finch station. We connected onto another bus and resumed our conversation about his stay in Canada. I was determined to give him a copy of the NT with a Gospel tract. Thus, I waited for the right opportunity, but it did not seem to come. Thus, I concluded that I would give it to him upon departing.

When my bus was within a couple of minutes from my stop, I told him I had something for him. I had lots of luggage on me so I had to drop a bag and search for the NT. I found it and gave it to him, showing him the tract inserted. He was very thankful for it. He responded, “Oh, is this what you study?” I said, ”Yes.” But I started to feel quite nervous for a lady in the bus was intensely staring at me as I gave him the Bible and talked to him. I kept glancing over at her only to find her fixed on me. This was quite unsettling. He was very interested. When he saw my contact information on the NT, he said, “McDonald, that is really your name – like the restaurant?” With a smile, I responded, “Yes.” He asked me if I had Facebook, which I told him I do not have. But I told him he could email me (for my email contact in on the literature I distribute). Cherokee and Finch – my stop had arrived. That was it.

When I left the bus, I thought, “Why did I feel so nervous handing out a NT in front of a bunch of onlookers in a TTC bus?” Having someone intently staring at you can make anyone feel uncomfortable, but was my discomfort completely justified? I think part of the reason I felt awkard was because I started to be more concerned about what people thought than God and His reputation. I was convicted by this fact, but I praise God that He gave me the grace to love this young man and to deliver him the NT Scripture with the tract. Praise God for enabling me to obey Him in spite of my own fears.

May the Lord have mercy on whom He will have mercy, even me.

Last Day of Internship and the Righteousness from God that Depends on Faith

Today was my last day of work. I understand that many people dream of their last day of work, but not me. Well, at least not for this job. I will miss full-time evangelism. Though this summer came with difficulty, God granted grace upon grace to keep me going and looking to Him for help. He is faithful.

So, how did I spend my last day? Well, I spent much time working on preparing the curriculum for our summer kids series (Exploring Egypt to Sinai: 4 P’s that Point You to Christ!). I am hoping to have it ready as a pdf document that can be accessed for free on the Grace Fellowship Church website. Hopefully it will be ready soon and hopefully it will be a blessing to others. I had a long meeting with a Muslim man today. This was our second meeting. Both meetings have lasted at least three hours! Thank the Lord that Tim Horton’s does not have a maximum time limit!

Luis (from the Spanish Church) came out with me again. This time we read in Acts 4 and 18 before praying and hitting the bus stops in Rexdale. I will share one little recap (or snippet) of an encouraging little conversation we had this morning.

The Righteousness from God that Depends on Faith

Luis and I approached a man handing him a coin with the 10 commandments on it. He thought it was neat. We explained that we are from the GFC and how we were out spreading the Gospel. He told us that he is a Christian.

Before long I asked the man, “If you were to die today, do you believe that God would accept you or reject you?” He told me, “That is tough to answer. I mean, we all have sinned and sin cannot be in God’s presence; so we have to repent. But, I have sinned today, if not in my actions then in my thoughts. But I need to repent. You see, that is a tough question. I don’t know.”

I replied by telling him of the importance of the question. He agreed. Then I said, “We can know whether or not God will accept us. Jesus spoke on these very things when he came. I mean - I know. I know that God will accept me.” He said, ”How do you know?” I said, “Because my faith is in Jesus – let me show you a passage.” I went to Philippians 3.7-9. I opened it up and held it before him reading it aloud. Interestingly, he pulled out his pen and underlined everything that I read (while I was reading it). He seemed genuinely interested.

After our public Scripture reading (I love that!), I said, “People refer to an alien as something that comes from outer space, that is, from outside the world. In this passage, Paul speaks of alien righteousness. This is a righteousness that we do not work for. This is the righteousness that I have received because of my faith in Christ. I did not work for it. Now, this is the righteousness that I have which makes me acceptable for Judgment and to God.”

He seemed intrigued. He goes to a Church, but this all seemed like new news to him. Then he said to me, “How can you know if you have faith?” I said, ”That’s a great question.” I flipped to 1st John and told him, “This letter, 1st John, was written primarily to answer that question.” I put my Gospel tract in that part of the NT (which I had given to him) so that he could easily access 1st John.

The bus came and I told him that my contact info is on the NT I gave him. He was thankful and told me that he was going to call me. We will see. Praise the Lord for answering our prayers. Luis and I really prayed for open doors. Accordingly, the Lord opened doors. He is faithful. (Prayer is absolutely essential in evangelism because God is absolutely essential in evangelism).

Philippians 3.9 is one of the clearest verses on the imputation of Christ’s righteousness to believers. Those who are truly saved ”do not have a righteousness of [their] own that comes from the law, but that which comes through faith in Christ, the righteousness from God that depends on faith.” May the Lord grant him faith in Christ that he may receive righteousness from God. How else can we be rightly clothed for Judgment Day?

I think it is fitting to end my internship on the note of Philippians 3.9. Chew on this my friend . . . and savour the flavour! The Gospel of justification by faith alone and the imputation of Christ’s righteousness – this is the Gospel that melts the heart with love and causes the mouth to open and even speak! May the Lord help us in our evangelism as he has in giving us his righteousness.

This Blog

This blog will likely continue into the fall, but I will have to think and pray more about this – please let me know of any ideas you have to make this blog more of a blessing to Christ’s church. To those of you who have been faithfully praying for me and encouraging me: Thank you so much for your interest, love and support. I really felt prayed for and I am thankful to God for you. Sincerely, thank you so much – you co-laboured with me and helped in the spread of the Gospel. Rejoice my friend, rejoice! God did great things this summer – lots of planting! Lots and lots of planting. Oh that we might see a harvest in Canada in our lifetime . . . and if not in ours – oh that it may be in the next! The Lord may do it. Glory is due His Name.

Why Must We Evangelize? (Part 3 of 3)

Q. Why must we evangelize?

A. Because faith comes from hearing the Gospel.

Textual Evidence

In Romans 10.17 Paul writes, “So faith comes by hearing, and hearing through the word of Christ.” Thus, faith comes from hearing the word of Christ. As Thomas Schreiner and Douglas Moo rightly note, “the word of Christ” in this context functions to mean “the word about Christ” (Schreiner, Romans, 567) or “the word that proclaims Christ” (Moo, Romans, 666). Paul is referring to the Gospel message about the life, death and resurrection of Jesus Christ (see context of Romans 10.14-17 and cf. Isaiah 52.7-53.12). Paul is saying that people must hear the Gospel in order to receive saving faith.

This truth corresponds with Romans 1.16: “The Gospel is the power of God for salvation to everyone who believes.” The Gospel is the surgical instrument that goes into the ear. Upon entering the ear, it reaches down to the heart, and if the heart is ready (by God’s grace), the Gospel makes it new and gives it a set of eyes – the eyes of faith (cf. Ephesians 1.18 and 2 Corinthians 3.18-4.6)!

Peter writes about the power of the Gospel to save. In 1 Peter 1.23 he tells us, “you have been born again, not of perishable seed but of imperishable, through the living and abiding word of God.” But, what does he mean by “living and abiding word of God”? Peter is not just talking about any portion of Scripture. He is talking about the Gospel. How do we know this? Look at the context. Notice what he writes in verse 25: “And this word is the good news that was preached to you.” Therefore, people are born again through hearing the Gospel. The Spirit works in conjunction with the Word of the Gospel to make people born again (cf. John 3. 1-8).

Therefore, we must evangelize because unbelievers will NOT believe unless they hear the message of the Gospel. This is a very strong statement worthy of much contemplation. This kind of belief and perspective can change our lives. In accordance with the grace of God we can find ourselves regularly compelled and constrained to speak of Christ – not because it gives us favour with God, nor to avoid God’s wrath, but because of the following logical equation:

1) We have the message that saves people.

2) People need to hear in order to be saved.

3) Therefore, we must to preach the Gospel to them so that they can hear and be saved.

The apostles understood this equation very well. This is one of the greatest reasons why they passionately and consistently preached the Gospel until their dying breath. This may also be one of the reasons why Paul said, “For necessity is laid upon me. Woe to me if I do not preach the gospel!” (1 Corinthians 9.16).

Objection

Who are we to tell people they must turn to Christ? People need to first observe our Christian lifestyle. Once they see that we are different they will ask us why we live the way we do. At this point, we have earned our right to speak; thus, we can share the Gospel. As Saint Francis of Assisi said, “Preach the Gospel all day long and only when necessary use words.”

Response

This objection deserves a response on a number of fronts.  I will address three.

First, who are we to tell people they must turn to Christ? Answer: we are nothing. BUT, our preaching does not actually imply that we think we are something. On the contrary, the message we spread confirms we are nothing and that we desperately need God. We are simply God’s appointed messengers. He is one who commands us to spread the Word. A better question to ask is this: who is God to tell people they must turn to Christ? That is the right question. If you can answer that question correctly, you will quickly see that he has every right to send whoever he wills to speak to whoever he wills whenever and wherever he wills.

I know that there is some merit to the famous slogan that you have to earn your right to speak. Many of us have experienced the Lord open doors for evangelism precisely because someone noticed our love, or kindness, or self-control, etc. However, just because the Lord opens doors this way, that does not mean this is the ONLY WAY He opens doors. Nor does this mean it is the primary way the Lord opens doors. Though we read that we are to “let [our] light shine before others, so that they may see [our] good works and give glory to [our] Father who is in heaven” (Matthew 5.16), they cannot know who the Father really is apart from the message of the Gospel which is ”the power of God unto salvation to everyone who believes” (Rom 1.16).

Second, I do not deny that a Christian’s lifestyle can have a powerful influence upon others. There is no doubt that Christian love (John 13.35) and unity (John 17.21) can have a profound influence upon curious observers. However, as we learned from Paul and Peter, it is the message of the Gospel itself that saves people. And though it is not wrong to wait for the right time to speak of Christ, the right time is not always a long time. Just think, if you believe that you have to live a life of love before a person for X amount of time, where do you get this standard of time from? And how loving do you have to be before you can speak? What if they do not notice your love? Do you have to wait for people to inquire before you can speak? Where do people get such statutes about evangelism? Whenever we read of “being ready to give an answer,” this never presupposes some notion that we are not to evangelize until we are asked questions.

I find the Bible teaching us to love God with all our hearts and to love everyone as our self. This should be manifested in many ways, but hopefully one way is through opening our mouths and speaking of Christ. I find the Bible teaching us to preach the Gospel often (Acts 1-28) and to be praying for the Lord to open doors (Colossians 4.3). Christians should be messengers eagerly looking for open mailboxes to deliver the message of the Gospel. Sometimes doors take a while to open – and that is okay – we cannot force doors to open. But sometimes they do not take that long. You will only know if you go around knocking.

Third, on the famous quote supposedly by St. Francis of Assisi. Truth is, there is no evidence that he actually said that. Furthermore, even if he did, is it biblical? I appreciate a certain aspect of this slogan. I agree that we should live our lives in a manner worthy of the gospel of Christ (Philippians 1.27). We should be holy for the Lord is holy (1 Peter 1.16). And I agree, may our lives have a powerful voice. HOWEVER, should we live exemplar lives and restrict (and limit) our Gospel talk? Where on earth did this idea ever come from? Of course, hypocrisy is a terrible thing. But the cure to hypocrisy is the repentance of the hypocrites, not decreasing the vocals of Christians. In fact, I do not see how you can really live life in a manner worthy of the gospel of Christ WITHOUT actively spreading the gospel of Christ. I know there are shut-ins and other rare circumstances, but the exceptions are few.

In Philippians 1.27-30, God calls the Philippians not only to believe, but also to suffer (1.29). In the context Paul is talking about ”striving side by side for the faith of the gospel” (1.27). Paul tells them that they are to suffer in a similar way that they saw him suffer. Paul is referring to his sufferings in Philippi – the time he was beaten with rods, inflicted with many blows and imprisoned (Acts 16. 23). Thus, God is calling the Philippians to suffer in the work of spreading the Gospel. Therefore, like the Philippians, we must evangelize.

Let us not forget the equation:

1) We have the message that saves people.

2) People need to hear in order to be saved.

3) Therefore, we must to preach the Gospel to them so that they can hear and be saved.

Why Must We Evangelize? (Part 2 of 3)

This post is the second of three. As I explained in part one, these posts correspond to the three points of the sermon that I preached at Grace Chapel this past Sunday.

Q. Why must we evangelize?

A. Because God commands us to make disciples.

Textual Evidence

The resurrected King Jesus commanded his disciples, “Go therefore and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit, teaching them to observe all that I have commanded you. And behold, I am with you always, to the end of the age” (Matthew 28.19-20). This passage is so familiar to many of us that we hardly think it needs exposition and contemplation. We have mastered it, right? Or have we? I do not claim to have mastered it, but I would like to share some thoughts directly related to the topic of evangelism. Let us begin by dealing with a potential objection.

Objection

Jesus commands us to make disciples. That is not exactly a call to evangelism.

Response

Though the command to make disciples is not exclusively a command to evangelize, it is a command which includes the mandate to evangelize. There are three aspects of this passage that I want to highlight. I will save the third point for the conclusion and application section.

First, on making disciples. The most important aspect of making disciples is telling them of their need to repent and believe upon Christ. Jesus said, “This is the work of God, that you believe in him whom he has sent” (John 6.29). My point is this: the command to go and make disciples includes the command to go and spread the Gospel. Have you ever pondered how Peter obeyed the command to go and make disciples? Read Acts 2. You find him preaching the Gospel. Read Acts 2-12. Amongst other things, you primarily find him preaching the Gospel. Of course, there is more to making disciples than exclusively preaching the Gospel, but the Gospel must be central.

Can you imagine making disciples apart from regularly focusing on and preaching the Gospel? You make legalists. These disciples study their Bibles all the way to hell (cf. John 5.39). In fact, they can evangelize all the way to hell. They can ”accept Jesus” and then work work work, but they are not disciples of Jesus Christ unless they persevere in doing the work of believing upon him. Please do not misunderstand me. I know that faith without works is dead, BUT, even these works are to issue forth from confidence in the Cross. When it comes to works, the only thing that counts is FAITH working through love (Galatians 5.6). Therefore, making disciples means we must evangelize.

Second, on “teaching them to observe all that I have commanded you.” Some people object that the call to make disciples (which necessitates evangelism) was primarily for the apostles. These people usually argue that evangelism is primarily reserved for religious leaders (i.e. pastors, evangelists, missionaries, etc.). They are right about one thing. The command to make disciples was specifically given to the apostles. However, they forget one MASSIVELY important point. Jesus also commanded them to teach these future disciples “to observe all that I have commanded you.” This includes the very command he just gave them, namely, making disciples (which includes the command to evangelize)! Thus, their objection is destroyed. Matthew 28.19-20 teaches us that God commands us to evangelize.

Conclusion and Application

As demontrated above, we must evangelize because God commands us to. One word of application should significantly encourage us toward obedience. Thus, third and finally, on Christ being with us. In verse 20, Jesus said, “And behold, I am with you always, to the end of the age.” If you are anything like me, you find evangelism very hard. Evangelism can be frightening. Jesus knows that we struggle with sin (fears often expose idols) and weakness (not every fear is evil). He was well acquainted with Peter’s denial. But in this passage, he tells us, ”I am with you always.” This is my confidence in evangelism: Jesus is with me. The Holy Spirit is in me. By His strength and help, I will obey His command to evangelize. Accordingly, may He receive all the glory for the work that is done. We must walk by faith. Christian, without faith it impossible to please the Lord (Hebrews 11.6).

When Paul was in Corinth, Jesus told him, “Do not be afraid, but go on speaking and do not be silent, for I am with you . . .” (Acts 18:9-10). Christian, Christ is with you. The Spirit is in you. Do not be afraid. Either start speaking or go on speaking. Either way, do not be silent. Christ is with you. Be sure of this: this kind of evangelistic work is not reserved for apostles or evangelists. In Acts 4, Luke tells us of a prayer meeting in Jerusalem. A group of believers prayed for the Lord to give them boldness (4.29). What happened? Well, we read that “they were all filled with the Holy Spirit and continued to speak the word of God with boldness” (4.31). We must evangelize. Take courage my friends, the Lord is with us to help us. May He show Himself strong.

Why Must We Evangelize? (Part 1 of 3)

Yesterday was Grace Chapel’s last fellowship lunch of the summer. Habib had asked me to preach on the call to evangelize the lost. Thus, I preached a sermon focused on three reasons why we must evangelize. I did not argue that these are necessarily the three most important reasons – only that these are three of many reasons. This post states just one reason. I will follow up with the other two reasons with two other posts (later this week).

Q. Why must we evangelize the lost?

A. Because God’s Commands all people everywhere to believe on Jesus Christ.

Textual Evidence

In Acts 17, Paul says, “now [God] commands all people everywhere to repent” (v. 30). Notice, when Paul preaches the gospel to the Athenians, he tells them that God commands repentance. Jesus Christ is not simply the way the Athenians should turn – they must! God is commanding them and they will face judgment (17.30-31).

In Mark 1.15, Jesus comes preaching, “The time is fulfilled, and the kingdom of God is at hand; repent and believe in the gospel.” Jesus, as the King of kings, commands all people to believe. He is NOT simply offering himself as the best option.

In 2 Thessalonians 1.8 Paul writes that God will inflict vengeance “on those who do not obey the gospel of our Lord Jesus.” They are punished precisely because they do not obey the command to believe upon Jesus Christ.

Objection

You may object, “But these passages teach that God commands all people to believe on Christ – NOT that Christians must evangelize.” These are two different commands.

Response

Though these passages do not state that we, as Christians, MUST evangelize, a small dose of reason formulates at least two inferences: 1) I must actively believe the gospel; and 2) People around me must actively believe the gospel.

Therefore, first, I need to examine myself to make sure that really have all my faith placed upon Jesus Christ (2 Corinthians 13.5).

Second, others must believe. (The following argument presupposes that Christians are to love others, as the Scriptures say, ”Love your neighbour as yourself”). As a Christian who does NOT live in a cave, I will share three observations that, taken together, necessarily demand our evangelistic efforts: 1) most people do not obey God’s command to believe on Christ; 2) most people do not know that God is commanding them to believe the Gospel; and 3) most people do not really know the Gospel. (The three uses of “most” carry the meaning “many” and “majority”).

Without being a rocket scientist I can tell you what these observations present us. They present us with a love obligation to TELL people what the Gospel is and that God is commanding them to believe. If Christians were not commanded to LOVE, I would have no basis for my argument. BUT, we are commanded to love and to look out for the welfare of others – thus, we have this love obligation to spread the Gospel (cf. Romans 1.14).

Conclusion and Application

Therefore, we must evangelize. Now, on that point, one word of application. When God opens the door for us to have a conversation with someone about the life, death and resurrection of Jesus Christ, if we have not already made it clear, we ought to tell them that believing in Jesus Christ is NOT simply an option, but that God commands that person to believe. After explaining the Gospel to someone I will often quote from Acts 17.30 emphasizing to them that God is commanding them to repent and turn to Christ.

May the Lord help us. If you feel paralyzed in your evangelism – first things first – believe the Gospel afresh today. Think on it, chew on it and eat it. Christian, God continues to command you to keep believing the Gospel. Possibly your evangelistic neglect is rooted in your own lack of faith in Gospel. I am not saying that you are not a Christian, but maybe you are in a season of little faith (cf. Matthew 14.31) as opposed to being full of faith like Stephen (Acts 6.5). My friend, look the Cross! May our prayer be, “Lord, I believe, help my unbelief!” (Mark 9.24).

A Great Friday Morning with Luis: The Gospel Goes Forth

I was a blessed man this morning. I was delighted to have fellowship in the Gospel of Christ with my dear brother Luis.  Originally from Columbia, he is a member of Church Iglesia Bautista Castellana (Keele and Dundas). He is currently working four days a week and has Fridays off (so we could go out!). A relatively new Christian, he wanted me to go out with him to help him learn about street evangelism (not that I have all the answers . . . but, he is humble enough to learn from even me). His church has recently started an English ministry (basically a young English congregation within a Spanish church) and really wants this ministry (church) to faithfully spread the Gospel in the church neighbourhood. He passionately wants the Lord to save all kinds of peoples and to bring them into his fold to live for His glory. He wants to lead by example and set the tone, not only for a Gospel loving and Gospel believing church, but ALSO, for a Gospel spreading church (meaning orally speaking the Gospel to people). As the Word increased in Acts, may it increase in the Keele-Dundas region!

Rejection

We had great fellowship over the Word (2 Cor 2.12-6.13) and in prayer. Eventually, we hit the streets. We went to the corner and tried talking to a young man. But, he did not want to talk with us. He told us that he was a thief and that as God forgave that man on the cross, so he was forgiven. He told us that as long as you are sincerely sorry for the bad you have done, and ask God for forgiveness, you are forgiven. I wanted to reason with him and tell him what the Bible says about these things, but he wanted none of it.

Handing out a French Tract

We moved on and hit the bus stops at Keele and Dundas. We met a man who was French and did not speak English – I think he was a tourist in Toronto. Thank you to Nick Hill – I had a 2 Ways to Live tract in French. I was able to give him one. He was very thankful for it.

I Guess this is Why We are Not to Talk about Religion and Politics

We walked down Dundas and met a lady having a smoke outside of her workplace. We approached her giving her a penny with the 10 commandments. She gave it back, but we had a good little talk. She said she was Anglican but had not been to church in years.

I asked her about death, “What do you believe will happen to you?” She said, “I’ll go into the ground and that’s it.” I told her that God has spoken on what happens at death. I told her how Jesus came and taught very clearly on heaven and hell.

Referring to Matthew 25 I told her, “The righteous will go into eternal life but the unrighteous into everlasting punishment.” She responded, “We”ll very few people are righteous; basically your telling me that 95 % of the people are going downstairs?” I said, “Actually, no one is righteous.” She replied, “No, there are some good people, not many, but there are some.” I said, “Well, here, let me read to you a few verses from the Bible about this.” With a smile, she said, “Oh my goodness, I haven’t read the Bible in years.” I said, “Well, this will be good for you – it is just a couple of sentences – I will read from Romans 3:10.”

I read Romans 3:10-12. She was listening with curious attentiveness.  In response to the Word of God in 3.12a, she said, “people aren’t worthless.” I said, “Well, you are right, but you are must understand what the Scriptures say about man elsewhere. In other portions of the Bible we learn that man is precious, for he is created in the image of God.” She said, “So there are contradictions.” I said, “No, there are what are called apparent contradictions.” In the spirit of ‘that’s enough for me,’ she replied, “Oh, the differences and disagreements – I guess this is why we are not to talk about religion and politics. I better go back into work.”

I said, “I have one thing for you to consider before you go, please just think about this one thing: People could gossip about you and say different things, but if I want to know the truth, I will come to you. I can find out the truth. You can find out the truth about the way of life and how to be made acceptable to God for Judgment Day. Jesus came and spoke about these things. Do you have a Bible?” She said, “yes.” I continued, “I encourage you to read a Gospel, John is a good one to read. You can find out what Jesus said about these things. You do not know me. You just met me – what if I was lying to you. You need to read Jesus and find out for yourself. But thank you for taking the time to let us speak with you. Thank you.” “Your welcome” she replied. That was it. May the Lord work in her heart – may He cause her to care about her soul and may He breathe life into her.

An Elderly Muslim Man

Later on we met another man out on the street. He was sitting on the ledge of a huge flower pot. He was an elderly Muslim who was friendly to Christians. He had strong and impassioned opinions about many things, some that I fully agree with . . . others that I do not (for they were contrary to Scripture). We talked for a very very long time – it was a great chat (more listening on my side, but that is great . . . listening is very important). We were able to share some Scripture with him (Mark 14.60-64, for he does not think Jesus is the Son of God or equal with God; and Ephesians 2.8-9, for he thought salvation is by works). Furthermore, we were able to clearly explain the Gospel to him – our sin and guilt, the substitutionary life and death on our behalf and his resurrection! He told us to come back and see him again (right there – where he works). May the Lord cause His Word to stay in his heart and work in conjunction with the Spirit to make him born again.

A message for those who read this post:

What a great Friday morning! If you read this post, first I say, “thank you.” Now I say this: “Believe the Gospel afresh today and in due time Preach it!” May the Lord help you. If you are a Christian, remember this: you do not justify yourself in your evangelism (nor are you less acceptable due to faithlessness in evangelism). The Father accepts you. Your standing with God has been sealed by the work of Christ, and by God’s grace, your corresponding faith in Christ. Thus, in light of that FREE GOSPEL what great reason to spread it!!!!! What a Gospel! Behold your God! What Glory! What a Gospel! What good reason do we have to be silent? Lord help us.

Interpretation and Truth

I was talking to a U of T student at the bus stop today. I asked her if she thought God would accept her if she was to die today. She was hoping that God would. She was Catholic. I spent some time explaining how God has given us His Word in human language so that we can know the way to be made acceptable. I emphasized the clarity of the Bible on the topic of the way of salvation.

She responded by telling me that people misinterpret the Bible. She told me that most people have different ideas about what it says. All in all, her argument boiled down to this: we have little hope of knowing for sure what the Scriptures say.

I replied to her objection saying, “Yes, I agree with you. This is a big problem. Many people misinterpret the Bible. They butcher it. However, just because many people misinterpret the Bible, that does not mean we cannot get it right. Think about this: Imagine a bunch of your friends were gossiping about you and saying things about you that are not true. Or, it could be people at your work. Whatever the case, they could tell me things about you that are not true. How am I to know the truth? I can find out. I could go to your closest friend and find out the truth about you. Or, I just go to you to find out the truth. You see, just because people say different things, that does not mean we cannot find what is true. (She nodded for she got my point). The Scriptures are very clear on the way to be made acceptable to God. We can know this truth. God has spoken on it.”

The bus was coming so I gave her a NT and told her that the way to be made acceptable to God is explained on the insert (which I wrote) in the NT. I encouraged her to read it. She told me that she was planning on taking a course on religion at U of T this year. The bus came. That was it.

Approaches to Evangelism, the Real Jesus and One Very Important Question – Do You Deserve to Go to Hell?

Not too long ago, I was out doing some bus stop evangelism with a friend of mine. He was unsure about my evangelistic approach. Now, keep in mind, this was the first time he had come out with me and his uneasiness occurred during the very first conversation we had that day. He was doubtful that it was really best for me to keep talking about God’s standards (righteousness, sin and justice) after the man had already indicated that he has sinned and was simply hoping that he will be okay on Judgment Day. Now, this man (who I was evangelizing) was a nominal Catholic who believed in God, Jesus, the Bible and so on.

So, as my friend and I talked (immediately after the first conversation) the question became this: why not transition the conversation to talk about the love of God that is centered in Jesus (that is, as soon as the man confessed he had sinned)? Why stay on the topic of Jesus’ teaching on righteousness, sin and judgment?

We Must Take a Quick Detour

I have a few things to say before I answer that question. This detour may seem long, BUT it is relevant, intentional and possibly even necessary if I am to avoid being massively misunderstood. Here I go.

Thoughts on Approaches

Let me say this at the outset: I do NOT think it would have been wrong to transition to talk about the love of God that is centered in Jesus. In fact, this would take us to the Cross upon which we could discuss not only love, but also sin, holiness, justice, mercy, wrath, righteousness, grace, faith, life, etc. I am convinced that we must be gracious with each other when it comes to HOW we get to the Gospel and HOW we seek to attempt to make it clear. There are not only many doors into the house of evangelism, but even into the dining room of the Gospel – there is so much to feast on!  However, we must be suspect of those who tell us the exact order or way we need to eat.

Most people have a general understanding that we should have appetizers, then soup/salad, main course, desert, etc. . . . but, would it be wrong to have desert first, that is, to talk of the glories of the new earth before the main course – explaining how to get there? I don’t think so. Now, if that person decided to eat desert first all the time, and not only that, but thought it was the only way to eat and told others they must do the same, then we have a problem. Indeed, we must be gracious with each other when it comes to HOW we get to the Gospel and HOW we seek to attempt to make it clear.

Though I am convinced that it is necessary to speak clearly and firmly of God’s righteous standards, His holiness, His justice, His wrath, judgment and hell, we must be careful NOT to go beyond Scripture when coming to conclusions about the ORDER and METHOD of HOW to evangelize. Indeed, we find descriptions of how to evangelize in the Bible, but these descriptions offer principles that we are to use. Principles can be applied in various ways. Now the command to evangelize is clear (Acts 1.8), but HOW this fleshes out may be different - consider how Paul evangelized the Jews in contrast to the Gentiles. He preached the Gospel to both BUT from different starting points (compare how he spoke to Jewish Galatians in Antioch at Pisidia in contrast the Gentile Galatians in Lystra – see Acts 13.13-14.18). In fact, Luke’s record of Paul’s evangelistic efforts in Acts teach us the very principle that the we need to become all things to people (cf 1 Cor 9.19-23). In other words, upon learning more about a person (especially his/her worldview), we ought to interact and preach the Gospel accordingly. I will save this worldview stuff for another post, for though it is important and deserves attention, it will take us off the intended track of this post – we are already on a detour!

What we do NOT find in the Bible is a course on how to do evangelism. By the way, I am not against such courses – in fact, I think they can be a great benefit to the church! I mean that. That being said, as much as I love Ray Comfort and the positive influence he is having on many individuals and churches, we must remember that “The Way of the Master” is more broad than working from the question, “Do you think you are a good person?” or “Do you know the ten commandments?” These are great questions to ask, and I highly recommend them in evangelism, BUT, it is not the ONLY WAY to talk about Jesus. Furthermore, might I add another note to all of my friends who like Matthius Media’s brilliant, insightful and sound evangelistic literature: working through redemptive history is NOT the only way (though it is great!). Hopefully, we can have ongoing dialogue with people to the extent that they can make more sense of who Jesus is and what He has done in light of the context of His coming (i.e., redemptive history), but let us think about the nature of the Gospel of Mark.

Mark was written primarily to Gentiles (cf. Carson and Moo, An Introduction to the New Testament, 182-83). Mark’s focus is on the identity of the person of Jesus Christ. Of course, his references to the OT point the reader (hearer) back to OT context, but the focus is Jesus as the Son of God (Christ/King/Messiah). Though the hard-heartedness of his disciples and antagonists is highlighted throughout his Gospel presentation, Mark does not start out talking about sin, law and judgment. And even though his Gospel starts off within the framework of God’s promise to Israel as the one who would prepare the way of the Lord (Mark 1.2-3), by Mark 1.9 the focus is on Jesus for the rest of the book. That being said, I think it is great to talk about sin, law and judgment AND to explain much of redemptive history before focusing on the life, death and resurrection of Jesus, HOWEVER, these are not the only ways to evangelize – just read Mark (which is a Gospel presentation seeking to convince the reader [hearer] that Jesus is the Son of God). You may respond to me and say - ”Yes, but Mark is the 41st book of 66; Mark comes to us in a historical context and AFTER the law.” That is a reasonable objection. However, do you really think that everyone who heard Mark had a working knowledge of the first 39 books? There is good reason to believe that Mark has both kind of readers (hearers) in mind.

Back on Track

Now, we are finally back on track. I hope the detour did not weary you. We were talking about the conversation I had with my friend. He was uneasy about my evangelistic approach. The question where we left off at was this: Why stay on the topic of Jesus’ teaching on righteousness, sin and judgment?

Well, this often depends on who is setting the course of the conversation. Sometimes, I am interacting with their good questions and objections (which alters the course of conversation). But, sometimes I tend to set the course. In this case, I set the course and we had already talked about God the Judge and whether or not he thought God would accept him. He thought God would, but he was not overly confident, just hopeful. I thought it would be good to talk about the standards of righteousness found in Matthew 5 (perfection). He admitted that he was not perfect, and said he was hoping that God would accept him. I stayed on the topic of God’s righteous standards. I thought it wise to explain more about these perfect standards so that he could see that he has no chance (of being accepted). You see, here is one major problem: he was not convinced that he was guilty to the extent that God would actually reject him. The bus soon came and I handed him a NT with a Gospel tract. I encouraged him to read it.

So, why did I stay on the topic of God’s righteous standards? I wanted this man to see that he is not only a sinner, meaning imperfect, but a SINNER, meaning a person who deserves God’s rejection (hell). This is a BIG difference. I have already stated that going to God’s love at this point would not be wrong. However, I think in this instance (if I was reading the man correctly), it would not be best. I think talk of God’s love would be made more sensible after fleshing out God’s righteous standards, sin, justice and judgment a little more. But, my friend thought different. I am thankful he told me.

So, he was concerned with my approach. I became concerned with his concern. For, the truth is – it is good and fitting to share the Gospel in a manner in which we talk about law, sin, Jesus’ teaching on righteousness and judgment before John 3.16 (especially when we plan to give Gospel tracts at the end of the conversation anyhow). Again, not that this is the only way, but it is a good way. Granted, these talks are not easy and can be uncomfortable, but what kind of surgery is comfortable?

Some Thoughts on Comfortable Evangelism

In evangelism we sometimes have to open up the heart. May the Lord help us. May he make us bold. If you are striving for comfortable methods of evangelism, I am concerned that you actually may be more concerned about your own comfort than you really are the condemned people you seek to reach (maybe not, but maybe . . . it would be good for us to examine our hearts on our selectiveness in our evangelistic endeavors). This is a whole other topic, but for now, let me make one qualification – this does not mean we should seek uncomfortable situations thinking that makes us more spiritual. It is good to evangelize wherever we are, whenever we can (and this will mean in comfortable and uncomfortable situations). Who is your Lord? I think when it comes to evangelism we sometimes try to be God. We will determine when we speak. We will determine who we speak to. May the Lord help us to really see the sinfulness in this type of lordship; and may such abhorrence quicken us to the Cross and repentance. I simply do not see the Biblical principle in the NT to seek for comfortable ways to evangelize – in fact, the NT evangelists seemed to go through much discomfort in their Gospel work.  Whatever the case, the post is already taking too many twists and turns – straightforward I go!

Back on Track – Do You Deserve to Go to Hell?

So, as my friend and I discussed this issue (of approaches), he used it as a chance to do more evangelism (which was great!). He asked a young lady who was standing nearby what she thought. Suddenly, we were have a three way conversation! He briefly explained to her the conversation we were having and asked her how she plans to get to heaven. With great confidence she said, “By faith in Jesus Christ.” In fact she may have said “Only by faith in Jesus Christ.” We were all silent (really, it was kind of an odd moment). We stayed silent for a bit. She must have wondered what was going on. I asked her if she goes to a church in the area and she does. It was silent again for a second. Then I asked her, “Do you believe you deserve to go to hell?” She said “No.” Again, we were all silent. Then I said, “Then what have you been saved from?” She thought for a bit and then replied, “I don’t know.” Again, we were silent (really silent). We all stood there contemplating. I did not know what to say. I don’t think the other two did either. Soon the bus came and she left.

My friend said to me, “I see your point.” Though he is still uncomfortable with the approach I used in the first conversation, he saw this point: people can “believe” in Jesus, but not really think they are all that bad. This is what we call “false faith.” For when we speak of faith, we are speaking of where one’s confidence is placed. What are they ultimately banking on to gain God’s acceptance? Is it their works? Is it Jesus plus works? Or, is it Jesus alone? And if they say Jesus alone, are they really relying on His righteousness alone? Do they know Him as “The Lord Our Righteousness”? If people do not have at least a vague idea of what they are saved from – are they really saved?

Well, what do we make of the young lady we spoke to? Can she really be a Christian? I think it is doubtful, but I must be careful here. Let me explain. It is possible for Christians to doubt the goodness of God. It is possible for Christians to doubt the justice of God. Now, I am about to say something wherein some may disagree so brace yourself: I think it is also possible for Christians, in seasons of darkness, to struggle to believe that God is just to punish them eternally. Such a struggle of faith signals serious spiritual sickness (weakness of faith) and hopefully it is only for a time, but it does not necessarily follow that “so and so” is not a Christian. Hopefully, this fight of faith is eventually won and the believer comes out of such darkness - believing God is good, and that His Word is true concerning His infinite Holiness, the exceedingly sinfulness of our sin and the justice of God in eternal condemnation.

With all that being said, why do I say that it is doubtful that the young lady was a Christan. Well, she did not believe that she deserved hell. She was certain of that. She did not appear to be wrestling with the goodness and justice of God on this issue. Furthermore, she honestly did not know what Jesus saved her from. So why does she believe? Herein is the question that would help discern whether or not she knows the real Jesus. Though this can be an insightful question, I am not sure if she could give the answer, for the purposes of man’s heart are deep waters (Prov. 20.5). I am not saying she can’t, I’m just saying that she may not really know (in light of our heart’s deceitfulness).

If she doesn’t really think she is all that bad, then it is highly unlikely that she is truly banking all of her trust in the righteousness of Christ on her behalf. Even if she thinks she is, she likely isn’t. Some people simply think they are sinners, in the sense that they are imperfect. This is distinctly different than being convinced they are SINNERS, meaning they deserve to be rejected by God (hell). This distinction is more important than the church has often realized. I argue that it is the difference of heaven and hell. Until people see that they are sinful to the extent that God will utterly reject them, what is it they want saved from? Now I know that the awareness of our sin is something we grow in as Christians, but even at the point of conversion (though this process looks quite different for different people) is there not an initial understanding of being saved from hell? This question is not rhetorical . . . if you have read this blog this far (thank you for your endurance), please let me know what you think. I would like to think that I am teachable here.

I think the heart is so deceitful (Jer 17.9) that even under the best preaching there exists professing believers who really do not believe that they deserve to go to hell. In fact, they may have never really believed they deserve to go to hell because they really don’t think (and never have thought) they are really that bad. Sure, they have been awakened to the fact that they are sinful (as in – not perfect). God has opened their eyes to see that Jesus is the Savior . . . even that there is only one way to get forgiveness of sins. They have been told that Jesus is the One who forgives and that they are to go to him freely – thus, they do (sort of). However, they see themselves as sinners, not SINNERS. They know they have failed on the moral test and that Jesus can give them the points they missed (in other words, He can make up for their bad – He died  for those sins). They failed bad and got 30 (or 40, 50, 60, etc.) out of 100. They know they need Jesus. They need Jesus to make up for the other 70 (or 60, 50, 40 etc.). BUT, deep down in their heart of hearts, they do not believe they are so sinful that God would be just to punish them eternally.

These people are in our churches. They are nice. They may be theologically sound. They help you when you need help. As there are good Muslims, kind Hindu’s, moral atheists, there are good and friendly “Christian” people. They read their Bibles daily, pray often and are faithful at church. They really are nice. They may even be generous financially. You would be as shocked as they would be to find that their faith is actually not fully rooted in Christ alone. In their heart of hearts they never were fully convinced that they were wicked (that is, really bad). They are convinced that they are sinners and that they need God’s forgiveness and mercy, but to think they have NOTHING good to bring to God . . . they may not voice this, but they do not believe that.

I have met some of these people (I think . . . and by the way, I sincerely hope I am wrong in my judgment). I will keep the church anonymous and the individuals too. Not too long ago, I ministered to a few professing Christians who go to a sound church with good teaching. By God’s grace he gave me the boldness to ask them some heart penetrating questions. Nothing in their moral lives told me I should be suspect. I had been asking many professing Christians questions about their conversion, faith and confidence of assurance. The heart is deceitful above all things – who are we kidding to assume all the professing Christians in our churches are really Christians? After much dialogue the one stated firmly that she would not consider herself to be a wretch. She thought that that term should be used for the bad people, “like murderers.” I will not tell the whole story, but it was a very telling comment. If you heard the whole story, you would learn that she was saying, “I am not perfect, but I am not a bad person.” I am not sure what she thinks of when she sings amazing grace, but my heart melts to think that she does not consider herself a SINNER. The other also did not believe she was a bad person – just imperfect. Not a SINNER, just a sinner.

Another Jesus

Imperfect Christians put their faith in Christ – but is this the real Jesus? They know that they must turn to Him. However, they do not put their faith fully in Christ. Whether they know it or not, they do not really believe that they need to. They really do believe that something they did helps make them fit for heaven (at least in a ver y small measure . . . though they know that salvation is not by works). Thus, I am convinced they have put their faith in another Jesus. They sit on pews in Baptist, Pentecostal, United, Presbyterian, Anglican, Mennonite, and Brethren churches (to name a few . . . some of these “Christians” actually don’t attend church). May the Lord help us to spread the Gospel even to these. And may we evangelize them as fellows sinners, pleading with them to realize their sinfulness and to put fullness of faith in Jesus Christ.

A great example of this problem is demonstrated in the parable of the Pharisee and the tax collector. The Pharisee knew he was imperfect. He knew he needed God’s grace (at least in a small measure) - that is likely one reason why he prays.  He acknowledges God; in fact, he thanks God. He is a very religious man who fasts, gives and evidently prays. To think that he does not realize some sort of minimal need for God would be a butchering of the text.  However, deep in his heart, he is quite happy about the good he has done. He is self-righteous. I would doubt that he consider himself to be self-righteous. No, he considers himself to be righteous (there is a difference). He is happy that he is better than the tax collector. This is like the Protestant (or Catholic) Christian today who looks to Jesus and prays thanking God for how good he is doing in his Bible readings and in abstaining from various sorts of evil (etc. etc.), however, deep down he is quite glad that he is not like others (the filthy sinners). However, the tax collector has absolutely nothing to offer God. He has come to grips with his sin. He has nothing to appeal to in order to gain God’s ear (just faith in His abundant mercy). He knows that he deserves rejection. He cannot look to heaven - He cries, “God, be merciful to me, a sinner!” (see Luke 18.9-14). According to the way I have used the terms sinner and SINNER in this post, the tax collector considered himself to be a SINNER.

Wow, this was a long post. If you got this far, thank you for your endurance (very impressive!). It is my prayer that the Lord will use this reading (at least in some measure) for your good. And if you comment – may that be for my good. Also, a little note on how things went with my friend. We discussed our differences , sought to better understand each other, prayed and hugged. Brotherly love – I love it!

A Personal Note

I deserve the fierce wrath of God forever. I certainly deserve to go to hell. My ongoing love affairs with the world, my spiritual pride, my lack of love for God and others, my impure heart and mind, my love of self, and a host of idols not to mention a long list of other intensely offensive sins all sentence me to everlasting punishment. However, Jesus became sin for me that, in Him, I might become the righteousness of God (2 Cor 5. 21). May I devote my life to the Son of God who loved me and gave Himself for me (Gal 2.20). I will never see the wrath I deserve! I am also thankful that I came to Jesus because the Father chose me (John 6.44). He gave me eyes that see Him (and consequently my sin as well). Only by His grace do I see that I deserve to go to hell. We must remember this as we prayerfully spread the Gospel to others.

I write this post as a SINNER saved by GRACE - GRACE that is GREATER than all my SIN. Amen.

Some Closed Doors

Paul H. was out with me on Saturday. The Lord opened some doors for us to have some good talks. However, there were some closed doors too. I will mention two.

We approached one man who was leaning against the garbage bin as he waited for the bus travelling South on Islington. We approached him and I offered a free coin that has the 10 commandments on it. He refused by simply saying no. I mentioned that we were from the church and he instantly motioned with his hand that he did not want to talk. In a friendly manner, I quickly assured him that we were not trying to sell anything. 

As I was assuring him, he turned his back and walked away with both of his hands in the air. He walked about twenty feet or so, stopped, and stood with his back toward us. As he walking away, in a friendly manner I said something . . . something to the effect of, ”Come on, what about friendliness – we’re in Canada.” I do not know why I said this. I would not necessarily recommend making comments like that when people turn (as he did). Whatever the case – that is what happened. That is a closed door ( for now) - pretty normal stuff that I encounter at bus stops (normal in the sense it is not unusual . . . it happens every now and again).

Later on we were talking to a lady from Vietnam. Her English was not great, but she was willing to talk. Paul H. started talking with her. Beside her was another man waiting for the bus. He was too close not to overhear our conversation, thus, I took a couple of steps and offered him a coin. He refused and with a big smile on his face he said, “No English, I do not speak English.” Since he said that with great clarity (and in English), with a smile I said, “You speak English.” Interestingly, he understood me and again, with a smile he said, “No English, I do not speak English.” We went back and forth for a bit. Finally, I said, ”What do you speak?” He said, ”No English.” I said “What do you speak? Where are you from? Italy?” There are many Italians in the immediate neighbourhood. He said, “Assyria.” I thought to myself, “Well, I do not Assyrian – I guess we will not be talking.” He seemed very happy that he had an excuse not to talk to me. Who knows – maybe he really hardly speaks any English and thought I looked funny? The Lord knows. Whatever the case – this was another closed door – a common one might I add. I wish I had a tract in Assyrian. I should have one.

I often like sharing the break through conversations that the Lord ordains. Indeed, we had some good conversations on Saturday; however, the purpose of this post is to share some the closed doors that are quite common to bus stop evangelism in Rexdale.