The constant noise of contemporary life makes it easy to miss the most profound message the world has ever known: Jesus loves you. Innovative teachers Craig Gross and Jason Harper will separate the religious from the real as they show how this simple truth is worth our undivided attention. The authors weave Jesus' narrative with their own stories of serving among the "least of these" in this inspiring summons to world-changing faith. Join them as they encounter shut-ins, drunks, inmates, porn stars, and others while striving to follow Christ in their daily lives.
Proof?
The worst part of this journey is the occasional conversation that I have with those that call themselves a skeptic. That is not what I would call them; they have doubts. I get it. On a recent flight I was drawn into a conversation with the people on the left and right of me. I was in the middle. Right after take off, the inevitable question is asked of me, “What do you do?” At this point I can answer it three different ways. But when traveling on the book tour, I usually say, “I am traveling and speaking seeking to rebrand Jesus.”
Proof?
I can’t prove God. To attempt to leads to arguments that usually lack civility. I can talk about probability, empirical evidence, scripture validity using mathematical probability, archeological data, etc. But still there is a measure of faith that I have to put my trust in scripture. I have to exercise the measured statement of “I believe.”
Do you?
If you are engaged in a question or conversation like I was, consider these three thoughts.
1. I have never met anyone who was argued into a love with God.
2. It is OK to say, “I don’t know the answer.” It increases authenticity.
3. Remember it is a process not a final destination. We are all still growing in our faith.
Speak life. Show love.
Much love.
Comments
Harper, good stuff guy. The best thing I ever did in terms of having those conversations was release myself from the idea that I needed to 'close the deal'. We don't earn a commission. It's not our job to prove anything. It's our job to SHOW God to those we connect with. God draws them, prepares them. He does the work. And sometimes, He drops us in their path so we can mirror Him to them. Sometimes we get the privilege of sharing a prayer and witnessing their transition to into a new life. Often, we're there to simply provide another nudge towards Him. Take the pressure off ourselves, and just do what He's asked us to do... love them and get out of His way.
I have found myself in those positions numerous times. Why do we have to be seated in the middle? I guess so you can't get away from the moment! ;-) Anyway, I always try to tune in to what the Holy Spirit is saying and doing. There was a time that I was seated between a Jewish lawyer and a woman studying to be a "spiritual guide". As the topic of faith came up, we had three different views. Every time I would chime in, I would be interrupted by the lawyer to my left. He even insulted me a few times, although to him they were not insults. Finally, I became quiet enough to ask God what He would have me to say. Suddenly the Lord said, "She's not married," referring to the woman to my right. I looked down at her hand and saw a wedding ring. I gently asked her, "So, are you married?" What do you think she said? "No, I'm divorced." Then, my faith increased. Then it felt as if my belly opened up and I heard the word BARREN, and it felt like tears were falling in my belly. I then asked her if she had been barren. Again, the answer was yes. In the end, God opened up this woman's whole life to me and showed me how to effectively minister to her and the lawyer, who again was Jewish, said that he was moved by the way I explained the Scriptures. He said it was as if I had been there and that it was real to me. I think that an important part of sharing your faith is listening to the Holy Spirit, taking risks when necessary and ultimately letting God connect with people through you. Whether it's by the boldness of your faith, the sincere love with which you communicate the "good news", or by striving to "fully preach the gospel of Christ" by releasing signs, wonders and miracles (Romans 15:19), thereby proving the existence of God and His Kingdom (Matt. 10:7-8), when your heart is to advance the Kingdom and see men come to God, anything you do will be made effective in the long run. Hope this helps and sorry it was so long.
I read thru your post and i have been similar situation.
But here is the answer-God existence can be proven-
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=VpHNal57ix0&f
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=wTmvyq_LLCo&f
amen.
I just read starving Jesus.
Thank you for existing. :) What almost all modern Christian literature is showing (weather they try or not) is that there is a church revolution going on, so thanks.
I suggest reading "The irresistible Revolution" by Shayne Claiborne. :)