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Have You Received Jesus Christ into Your Life?

young man

My lack in evangelism embarrassed me. Though I was a Spirit-filled pastor, I had gone months, sometimes years without leading anyone to Christ outside of church services.

One night God impressed me, “Lift up your eyes and see the fields, that they are white for harvest.” (John 4:35) Weeks passed until I finally thought, “If God said that, I better test it out.”

I Asked a Simple Question

So when a man came to buy a lamb I had raised, I asked him straight out, “Have you received Jesus Christ into your life?”

“No,” he replied.

“But you’d like to, wouldn’t you?” I asked.

He paused pensively for a moment and then stated, “Yes, I would.”

I gave him a brief gospel lesson, “Jesus Christ died for our sins and rose again from the dead.” “Would you pray to receive Jesus Christ right now?” I asked.

“Yes, but I don’t know how,” he said with fright in his face. I led him in a simple prayer, which he repeated after me. After prayer, he looked up with the sweetest words and expressions of gratitude.

The next day I brought a Bible to his house. He was cutting down a tree, so I took the axe and helped. When his wife came out, I introduced myself and asked her, “Have you received Jesus Christ into your life?” She replied “No,” but added that she wanted to. I gave her the same gospel message. She wanted to pray silently, so I acknowledged her wish.

This began a series of encounters with people I met in everyday life. I’ve been able to lead a girl to Christ at a flower shop, a young man at Wal-Mart and a fellow at an auto repair shop. Not everyone receives Christ on the spot, of course. Recently, while waiting for someone, a college girl named Cassie was in the same room. After chit-chat, I asked her, “Have you received Jesus Christ into your life?” Unlike most, she couldn’t say yes or no although she admitted she was searching. This opened the door to give her a Josh McDowell booklet to help answer her quest and boost her along the road to discipleship.

Evangelism Adds Zest to Life

I’m still learning. Here’s what I’m discovering. Evangelism is a lot of fun.

Jesus is right—the harvest is ripe. People are ready; they just need to be shown how to receive Christ.

Surprisingly, this key question, “Have you received Jesus Christ into your life?” does not seem to offend people; rather, they welcome the opportunity to talk about their faith. Almost everyone—more than 9 out of 10–answers the question yes or no.

The great commission is best translated, “As you go . . . make disciples.” I’m able to begin this discipleship process in the normal course of life without going out of my way.

A Simple Question

This simple question is a great opener, but more than a starter. It leads to salvation. We are called to reap, not just sow or water. (John 4:37) If appropriate I often ask, “Is there any reason why you wouldn’t want to receive Jesus Christ into your life right now?” Some people are prepared and waiting. Other Christians have already done the legwork with them. We come along and follow up on their labor. Jesus gave this principle about evangelism, “One sows and another reaps.” Jesus said, “I have called you to reap.” (John 4:37-38)

A Simple Gospel

There is power in the gospel. Invariably, I give a clear gospel summary according to I Corinthians 15:1-4. Jesus Christ died for our sins. Jesus Christ rose from the dead. The gospel is the power of God for salvation. Get a handle on this one if you can! Use the simple gospel. Use the name of Jesus. The gospel is the only power of God for eternal salvation. When I started stating the gospel clearly, people started getting saved!

Jesus didn’t follow up everyone. If He didn’t try, why should we? Let the Spirit lead.

When I’m filled with the Holy Spirit and have vision for people (seeing the fields), evangelism comes more naturally. The risk is still breath-taking–but what an adventure!

I have made a decision not to criticize but rather be supportive of various forms of evangelism. There’s a lot of variety. “Different spokes for different folks.” What works for one may not work for another. Find a style that works for you and use it.

The world is waiting. We’re winning not just “souls”. It’s Judy or Jim or Megan or Brett who are going to hell. We turn them around by caring enough to ask simple questions and giving the simple gospel.

Have You Received Jesus Christ into Your Life?

My lack in evangelism has embarrassed me. Though I am a Spirit-filled pastor, I have gone months, sometimes years without leading anyone to Christ outside of church services.

One night God impressed me, “Lift up your eyes and see the fields, that they are white for harvest.” (John 4:35) Weeks passed until I finally thought, “If God said that, I better test it out.” So when a man came to buy a lamb I had raised, I asked him straight out, “Have you received Jesus Christ into your life?”

“No,” he replied.

“But you’d like to, wouldn’t you?” I asked.

He paused pensively for a moment and then stated, “Yes, I would.”

I gave him a brief gospel lesson, “Jesus Christ died for our sins and rose again from the dead.” “Would you pray to receive Jesus Christ right now?” I asked.

“Yes, but I don’t know how,” he said with fright in his face. I led him in a simple prayer, which he repeated after me. After prayer, he looked up with the sweetest words and expressions of gratitude.

The next day I brought a Bible to his house. He was cutting down a tree, so I took the axe and helped. When his wife came out, I introduced myself and asked her if she had received Jesus Christ into her life. She replied no, but that she wanted to. I gave her the same gospel message. She wanted to pray silently, so I acknowledged her wish.

This began a series of encounters with people I met in everyday life. I’ve been able to lead a girl to Christ at a flower shop, a young man at Wal-Mart and a fellow at an auto repair shop. Not everyone receives Christ on the spot, of course. Recently, while waiting for someone, a college girl named Cassie was in the same room. After chit-chat, I asked her, “Have you received Christ Jesus into your life?” Unlike most, she couldn’t say yes or no although she admitted she was searching. This opened the door to give her a Josh McDowell booklet to help answer her quest and boost her along the road to discipleship.

I’m still learning. Here’s what I’m discovering. Evangelism is a lot of fun.

Jesus is right—the harvest is ripe. People are ready; they just need to be shown how to receive Christ.

Surprisingly, this key question, “Have your given your life to Jesus Christ?” does not seem to offend people; rather, they welcome the opportunity to talk about their faith. Almost everyone—more than 9 out of 10–answers the question yes or no.

The great commission is best translated, “As you are going. . . make disciples.” I’m able to begin this discipleship process in the normal course of life without going out of my way.

This simple question is a great opener, but more than a starter. It leads to salvation. We are called to reap, not just sow or water. (John 4:37) If appropriate I often ask, “Is there any reason why you wouldn’t want to receive Jesus Christ into your life right now?” Some people are prepared and waiting. Other Christians have already done the legwork with them. We come along and follow up on their labor. Jesus gave this principle about evangelism, “One sows and another reaps.” Jesus said, “I have called you to reap.” (John 4:37-38)

There is power in the gospel. Invariably, I give a clear gospel summary according to I Corinthians 15:1-4. Jesus Christ died for our sins. Jesus Christ rose from the dead. The gospel is the power of God for salvation. Get a handle on this one if you can! Use the simple gospel. Use the name of Jesus.

Jesus didn’t follow up everyone. If He didn’t try, why should we? Let the Spirit lead.

When I’m filled with the Holy Spirit and have vision for people (seeing the fields), evangelism comes more naturally. The risk is still breath taking–but what an adventure!

I have made a decision not to criticize but rather be supportive of various forms of evangelism. There’s a lot of variety. “Different spokes for different folks.” What works for one may not work for another. Find a style that works for you and use it.

The world is waiting. We’re winning not just “souls”. It’s Judy or Jim or Megan or Brett who are going to hell. We turn them around by caring enough to ask simple questions and giving the simple gospel.

Workers in the Harvest

image of gloucester docks

Workers in the Harvest

Editors Note: Brian from England is one of the workers in the harvest who will have his reward in heaven. I greatly respect Brian for his faithfulness. He volunteers regularly to bring the gospel, including healing to street people. You can learn more about him at his website. I am publishing Brian’s post here for a good reason: Many, many people are ready to receive Jesus Christ as Savior when they hear the gospel from someone who cares about them. Jesus said, “Do you not say, ‘There are yet four months, and then comes the harvest’? Behold, I say to you, lift up your eyes and look on the fields, that they are white for harvest.”

I was at the local docks area (pictured above) where we had a team offering to pray for people – for healing or whatever their need was. We serve together as part of a team of workers in the harvest. One woman went for prayer, so I was directed to chat to her husband who was waiting a few yards away. He told me he was into “Mindfulness”, which is all the current rage here in the UK. Sadly, it leaves God out of the equation, as I indicated to him.

He was obviously reviewing his life, as he admitted to me. I was able to share the gospel in some detail, plus share a lot of my personal testimony, including the time Jesus appeared in my bedroom. He was quite keen to hear what I had to say, and thanked me for sharing. As his wife came over to join him I gave him my card and encouraged him to check out my website New Christian UK.

After they left one of our team said that the wife had given her life to Christ during the 10 minute period she was there. Praise God! Great example of chicken evangelism! Bring up Christ before you chicken out.

 

Flower Girl Receives Christ

Flower Girl Receives Christ

Flower Girl Receives Christ

She was the clerk at the flower shop in  our local Hy-Vee grocery store. I will call her the “flower girl” in this story. We had never met before.

(I’m writing this story to show how some people are so open to God and how easy it is to lead a person to salvation in Jesus Christ. You can do it as well as I. Just share Christ before you “chicken out!” Remember to make the gospel clear, and help them to actually receive Jesus Christ into their life through faith. You will be glad you did.)

I wanted to buy flowers for my wife. After selecting a beautiful pink rose, I came to the counter to pay. The young attendant was helpful. Since she was not busy with other customers, I asked her, “Have you received Jesus Christ into your life?”

“My mother attends mass every week,” the flower girl replied. Instantly I knew she personally had no real connection with the Savior. She added that occasionally she attended with her mom.

“That’s great!” I answered. “Then you may have heard that Jesus Christ died for your sins and rose again from the dead.” She nodded, but made no reply.

My answer surprised me. In the past I had never known what to say to Roman Catholics. I knew some were saved and some were not, as in every denomination. For some reason I had always been stymied in trying to witness to Catholics. With my answer this time (“that’s great!”), I sensed the Holy Spirit was present and leading me. He was teaching me and giving me a word of wisdom to help the flower girl.

I continued with fresh enthusiasm. “This is the good news. Jesus died for our sins, rose from death, and is offering us a free gift—eternal life.” She kept focusing on what I was saying.

Right then another employee came, heard us talking, and interrupted. I didn’t know what to do, so I asked him the same question, “Have you received Jesus Christ into your life?” He answered affirmatively, then poured cold water on the conversation by saying, “Yes, but I don’t want to talk about it!” I was so riled I could have wrung his neck. Fortunately, he left the area and went on his way leaving me alone at the counter with the flower girl.

You can be certain I prayed fervently for no more interruptions!

“I have really great news for you. Jesus Christ died for our sins. He rose again from the dead. He has a free gift of salvation for all who receive Him by faith. Does this make sense to you?” She wasn’t sure. It seemed like new thoughts to her.

So I continued. “It’s not how good or bad we are. Salvation is a free gift which we can receive in childlike trust. God is offering it to you right now. Would you like to receive Jesus and His free gift into your heart?”

The flower girl nodded affirmatively this time and said, “Yes.”

“Then go ahead and ask Jesus into your heart right here. No one will know what you are doing,” I informed her. She bowed her head and prayed there at the counter. (For my part, I prayed for all I was worth that no customers would come right then. None came!)

After prayer the flower girl lifted her eyes and smiled with the most beautiful radiance that the world can ever hope to see. It’s the radiance of a newborn babe in Christ that only those who have led another to faith in the Savior have the privilege to see. I prayed aloud and asked God to seal and anchor the eternal work God had done in her life.

I left her with her newly acquired radiance, took the flowers for my wife, and went on my way rejoicing.

Jesus said, “Lift up your eyes, and look on the fields, that they are white for harvest.” In other words, see what He sees, get a vision for the lost. It’s about love. Love for Him and love for people. We don’t want anyone to go to hell.

You can lead people like the flower girl to Christ. Jesus said, ” I sent you to reap that for which you have not labored. Love helps us open our mouth to tell of Jesus. Share Christ before you “chicken out!” Because we love ’em, we tell ’em.

 

to Christ

Chicken Evangelism Pros and Cons

The Pros and Cons of Chicken Eangelism

The Pros and Cons of Chicken Evangelism

Chicken Evangelism Pros and Cons

 

Let’s examine Chicken Evangelism pros and cons. At this website we espouse every legitimate form of Christian evangelism. Currently the church is searching for new concepts of witnessing. Chicken Evangelism is as old as the Bible but will strike some as “new and innovative.”

What is Chicken Evangelism?– It’s an effective way to overcome fear by bringing Christ into the conversation before you chicken out.

Before we get into Chicken Evangelism pros and cons please enjoy this short story.

Today I Talked with a Most Interesting Fellow

 

He has no credit cards and no debt.  He and his wife have four kids together.  Everything is paid for including his car.  The only exception is his house.

 

All this came out after I popped the question, “Have you received Jesus Christ into your life?”

 

It all began when the cable technician came to my office to hook up the internet connection.  I showed him where the exterior entry point should be and brought him to my office.  He ran his tests and I went out to shovel snow off the sidewalks.  When I returned he had a little down time, so we talked.  It turned out he works with one of the guys from the church, a guy who has a good reputation at work.  I knew if I was ever going to ask the question about Christ, I’d better do it before I chickened out.

 

I took a shallow breath and asked sincerely, “Have you given your life to Jesus Christ?”  N.’s answer was clear and unsurprising.  “No, I’m not into that,” he stated matter-of-factly.  His answer was no surprise since I’ve found that about 90% of everyone with whom I ask that question answers with either a yes or no. I commended him for giving an honest answer.  He responded that he was not ashamed and since he didn’t have a faith he might as well own up to it.

 

I agreed and gave him my testimony.

 

I was raised in a Christian home, but when I went to college I began doing a lot of thinking.  I had to know for sure about God and the Christian life.  I decided that if Jesus Christ really rose from the dead, I would give my life to Him.  If He didn’t rise from the dead, I would give the whole thing up. 

 

Since I was majoring in history, I knew some of the canons of historiography.  In other words, I knew how to evaluate historical data.  For example, was the writer an eye-witness of an event or was it just hearsay?  How long after an event was the manuscript written?  (A manuscript written shortly after an event has more veracity than one written much later.)  What were the sources of the manuscript in question?  How many manuscripts purport to describe this same event?  What was the character of the writer and how was he related to the event he described? 

 

What I found surprised me. The evidence for the resurrection of Jesus Christ from the dead was overwhelming!  No other event in ancient history was so well attested.  From a purely historical point of view, the evidence for the Resurrection of Christ is incontrovertible.  So I gave my life to Jesus Christ and never looked back.

 

N. listed to all this with obvious attention.  I offered to get him some research materials if he were willing.  “I know I’ll get into it someday; I’m just not there yet,” he replied.

 

I knew I couldn’t leave him without a gospel witness.  “I have good news for you,” I spoke enthusiastically.  Jesus Christ died for your sins, of which we all have plenty.”  N. nodded.  I told him how just yesterday I had offended someone and had to ask forgiveness.   He smiled.  “It’s not how good we are—no one is good enough to get to heaven.  Rather, it’s accepting the free gift of righteousness that Jesus gives.  Jesus rose from the dead to live inside us.  Christianity is not just a bunch of do’s and don’ts—it’s Jesus inspiring us from the inside.  Life with Christ is an adventure!  And to not receive Christ—well, the default position for not taking Jesus into our life is, well—not very good.”  I didn’t want to mention the hell word.

 

N. took it all in.  He started opening up with his own life.  That’s when He confided about his family, his finances, and his children.  We talked about music and how he plays guitar in a band.  I located a couple of “evidence books” about the Christian faith and offered him a choice.  He chose Josh McDowell’s More than a Carpenter when I related how the book had helped me personally.  When I offered to talk with him again someday, he replied affirmatively, “Yeah, or I could talk with that guy at work from your church!”

 

We enjoyed a great talk with mutual understanding and appreciation.  As I write this, I’m praying for N. and hope to see him again.  If the discipleship process wasn’t launched before, it is now!

Chicken Evangelism Pros and Cons

OK, let’s get into specifics.

Pros—when done with love and sensitivity

It is strongly biblical. Most of Christ’s outreach ministry took place on first encounters.

It overcomes fear, one of the greatest hindrances to witnessing for Christ.

It begins a conversation with a stranger that likely would not occur otherwise.

It’s a great conversation starter. Most Christians do well if they can get started.

It can lead to conversion: Jesus said, “Lift up your eyes and see the fields; they are ripe for harvest” (John 4:38).

It shows faith in Jesus and His word: Jesus said, “I sent you to reap that for which you have not labored; others have labored and you have entered into their labor” (John 4:38).

It opens the door to proclaim the gospel.

It often leads to friendship.

It can begin the discipleship process, even with a stranger.

It reveals the heart of the Christian.

Most people respect someone who is straightforward and “up front.”

It causes a person to think about his or her eternal destiny.

Every encounter is a risk, an adventure for the person who witnesses. Consequently, Chicken Evangelism keeps a Christian out of spiritual lethargy.

It causes the witness to cry out to God in prayer.

It can be done going about our daily lives and schedules. Jesus said, “As you are going . . . make disciples” (Literal translation of Matt 28:19).

It’s simple; no special training or memory work is required.

It can be done quickly.

It allows a stranger to talk about his or her faith, something most people desire to do.

Cons–

Some Christians misunderstand, think it requires great boldness.

Some believers are afraid it will offend people.

Some believers are under the mis-impression you have to build a relationship before talking about faith.

Like any other witnessing, if it’s done without love and sensitivity, it can be offensive.

With Chicken Evangelism pros and cons, the pros clearly outweigh the cons. When you try it you will most likely overcome fear and find a wonderful release. Some people are ready to give their life to Christ. Go ahead, try it and see how God will honor you!

If you want to talk more about chicken evangelism pros and cons browse this website or contact Ethan or me.

God bless you!

 

Chicken Evangelism Makes Disciples

Chicken Evangelism Makes Disciples

Chicken Evangelism Makes Disciples

 

Chicken Evangelism Makes disciples

Chicken Evangelism makes disciples. It’s an adventure. It’s fun. It’s personal evangelism that crushes fear by “sharing Christ before you chicken out!”

What is Chicken Evangelism and Why Does It Work?

Chicken Evangelism (Share Christ before You Chicken Out) is based on Jesus’ words to His disciples in John 4:35, “Behold, I say to you, lift up your eyes and look on the fields, that they are white for harvest.” Christ maintains some folks are ready to receive Him as Savior right now. They just need to be shown how.

Chicken Evangelism—Get a Vision for the Lost

I have taken Christ at His word. He has helped me ask a crucial question of people, often on our first encounter. “Have you received Jesus Christ into your life?” The responses have amazed me and many others. Here’s the story of how a college age man received Christ as Savior a few minutes after we met.  Gas station attendant receives Christ.

Chicken Evangelism—Make Disciples

Chicken evangelism (Bring up Christ before you chicken out) is sometimes criticized by those who’ve never tried it for “making decisions, not disciples.” All I can say is, “Pardon me, your slip is showing!” Let’s examine this criticism under the microscope.

While it is true that chicken evangelism does not always lead to discipleship (and the same can be said of any form of evangelism), consider the case of Dave Kerr. The first or second time I met Dave I asked him, “Have you received Christ Jesus into your life?” He answered that he had a different way of looking at things. Yet as time progressed, Dave changed. He became the leader of our  group for men and served faithfully for many years.

Or consider Flynn Collier. When I first approached Flynn with the question, “Have you received Jesus Christ into your life?” He didn’t  want to talk and said so in no uncertain terms. But God used the question to stir his mind. Two weeks later Flynn showed up at church uninvited. He has rarely missed a Sunday since! He connected with Christ through the apostles creed, “I believe in Jesus Christ His only Son, our Lord.” Now Flynn hears God’s voice and is an example of obedience to God for all to see. We call him Flynn “Fantastic” Collier.

Then there’s the lady in our church who asked a sales clerk “Do you have Jesus in your heart?” She challenged him to receive Christ on the spot, but he didn’t want to pray on the job. Yet her question left an impact. He was stirred. Immediately after work he went out to his car and prayed a prayer of salvation. As soon as he got home he told his daughter what he had done and encouraged her to do the same. She prayed a prayer of salvation and received Jesus that same night. The following week she went out and enrolled in confirmation classes at the Lutheran Church. This is discipleship at its finest. Don’t tell me chicken evangelism doesn’t make disciples!

Chicken Evangelism  “As You’re Going”

Matthew 28:19 is often written, “Go therefore and make disciples of all the nations,” but is perhaps best translated, “as you are going make disciples.” Or as a footnote for the NASB  translates, “Having gone (into the world).” The thought in Jesus Great Commission is that we have already gone into the world where we live, work, and do our daily activities. The beauty of Chicken Evangelism is no one has to go out of his way to share good news. Rather, as we are going shopping, buying gas, paying bills, we meet people along the way. Some of these are ready to receive Christ. Consider the cell phone sales lady.

Chicken Evangelism—Get Filled with the Holy Spirit

“But you will receive power when the Holy Spirit has come upon you; and you shall be My witnesses both in Jerusalem, and in all Judea and Samaria, and even to the remotest part of the earth” (Acts 1:8). Although people understand this verse in various ways, we can all agree with Jesus that the fullness of he Holy Spirit is intended to help us share our faith.

Chicken Evangelism—The Bible Way to Pray for the Lost

Here’s a radical idea, and it’s altogether Biblical. Instead of praying for the lost, pray that God will open the mouths of Christians to make the gospel clear.  Paul knew this secret and often asked people to pray for him to enable him to share the gospel (Eph 6:19 and 20). “And pray on my behalf, that utterance may be given to me in the opening of my mouth, to make known with boldness the mystery of the gospel, for which I am an ambassador in chains; that in proclaiming it I may speak boldly, as I ought to speak.”

Chicken Evangelism—Ask the God Question Before You Chicken Out!

When some people hear about chicken evangelism, they think I am bold, but I am not. Nor am I an evangelist. I overcome fear by asking the God question early. Here’s the story of a Texas State student who received Christ. I find I have about a five minute window when I meet a new person. If I don’t ask the question within the window, I chicken out! I’m for all forms of evangelism. I support relationship evangelism, friendship evangelism, and every form of outreach. Relationship evangelism may be the best form of all. The problem is I rarely see it happening.

Chicken Evangelism–Make the Gospel Clear

This is a crucial key! 1 Cor 15:1-6  has helped me so much because it makes the gospel clear. “Now I make known to you, brethren, the gospel: Jesus Christ died for our sins. Jesus Christ rose from the dead.” We must make the good news glorious and clear. Salvation is a free gift based on Jesus death and resurrection. As soon as I started making the gospel clear, people started getting saved! Without the gospel people don’t get saved.

Chicken Evangelism–Let the Holy Spirit Lead about Follow Up

I have always taught workers to follow up on people. Yet, study the Scriptures with me. Outside of the twelve and Mary, Martha, and Lazarus, how many times did Jesus follow up on those he ministered to? The answer may surprise you. Follow up is something that must be led by the Holy Spirit.

I Invite You  . . .

This post explains what Chicken Evangelism is (bring up Christ before you chicken out!) and adds a few aspects that make it work. Go ahead, try it out–you may be surprised at how many are ready to receive Christ! And if you want to talk about it, contact me.

Evangelism is Easier than You Think

Laying-Hen-2

Why make evangelism so hard? Jesus said it’s easy. If it’s as difficult as some people think, we need a mental adjustment.

For some, fear and evangelism go together like ice and snow. “You can’t have one without the other,” they shudder. For many Christians, fears paralyze. Let’s identify three biggies in the devil’s fear-factor industry and then see how “chicken evangelism” overcomes the boogey-man every time.

Do These Things Scare You?

First, “I don’t witness because I might lose a friend.” That’s unlikely. More realistically, your friend will respect you for sharing your faith. But if losing a friend concerns you, get started by witnessing to strangers. With strangers you have little to lose.

Second, “I don’t know where to start or how to begin.” Try Chicken Evangelism; it’s tailor-made to help overcome fear and get started.

Third, “I might say the wrong thing and make things worse.” That’s doubtful, and if you don’t say anything, the prospect could end up in hell. Which is worse, his eternity in hell or your fear of saying the wrong thing?

Jesus Made Evangelism Easier Than You Think

Let’ see how Jesus made evangelism easy. Almost immediately after meeting a woman of Samaria, Jesus invited her to receive Him and his gift (John 4:10). No beating around the bush! Later, He explained basic principles of evangelism to his disciples.

“I have food to eat that you do not know about” (John 4:32). Evangelism God’s way is satisfying. It’s as easy as eating. It fulfills a person. Eating is something we do at leisure, at rest. Eating is enjoyable and so is evangelism God’s way.

“My food is to do the will of Him who sent Me and to accomplish His work” (John 4:34). When God asks us to do something, He simultaneously gives us the grace (ability) to do it. It has to be this way; otherwise, He would expect us to accomplish His will by our own power which is clearly not His expectation. Reaping souls is God’s work and we are joining His crew. To reiterate, it’s His work, not ours. He is the initiator and the One responsible for the outcome. Knowing evangelism belongs to Him frees us from the responsibly of the outcome. He gets the credit and we get the privilege of flowing with Him.

Our family lives near the Mississippi River which has a powerful current. I have tried to swim upstream against the Mississippi current. It doesn’t work. To swim or paddle against the flow is exhausting, almost impossible, for more than a few minutes. God’s way of evangelizing is like flowing with the current. Evangelism God’s way is like getting in a boat and floating downstream. It’s effortless and relaxing!

“Do you not say, ‘There are yet four months, and then [emphasis added] comes the harvest?’ Behold, I say to you, lift up your eyes and look on the fields, that they are white for harvest” (John 4:35). Jesus sees something we may have missed. He sees hungry people ready to be reaped. He sees men, women, young people, and children with hearts hungry for Him.

Pascal, the great French Physicist noted, “There is a God-shaped vacuum in the heart of every person, and it can never be filled by any created thing. It can only be filled by God, made known through Jesus Christ” (Blaise Pascal, Pensees, published 1670).  Jesus said the fields are white (ripe) and ready for harvest. As Bill Bright and Campus Crusade have taught for years, many people are ready to be saved; they just need to be shown how.

One of the salient points of Chicken Evangelism is many people are ready to be saved. Perhaps you have found some who are not ready. Has that has clouded your vision? The fact remains for every day in every century, Jesus said, “The fields are white for harvest.” We need the eyes to see what He sees and the faith that God will lead us to ready-to-be-reaped people.

“Already he who reaps is receiving wages and is gathering fruit for life eternal” (John 4:36). Jesus corrected the idea that more time was needed, that better relationships had to be formed, that people were not ready. He said in effect, “Now, already people are being saved for eternity.” Paul chimed in, “Now is the acceptable time. Behold, now is the day of salvation.” (2 Cor 7:1)

“I sent you to reap that for which you have not labored; others have labored and you have entered into their labor” (John 4:38). This is the primary reason evangelism is easy: Somebody before you has done the work. They preached the gospel, they set the example, and they lived the life. Perhaps that someone developed a relationship. No one person can do it all. God didn’t plan for one person to do it all; rather, He planned that someone works, another tags along and eventually leads the “ripe” man to salvation. If an individual is not ready for harvest, we go on to the next until we find the one who is. We are called not just to witness or build relationships—we are called to reap.

There is a place for labor in evangelism. The gospel must be preached. Sacrifices must often be made. Patience is required as people consider the claims of Christ. When I say, “Evangelism is easier than you think,” let no one construe this to imply that the labor intensive work of steadily teaching, preaching, writing, and living the life of the gospel is unnecessary or unimportant. The opposite is true. However, the scales have tipped too far to the opinion that evangelism is an odious, time-consuming, and wearisome job best left to professionals or super-Christians.

The time has come to tip the scales the other way. This is what Chicken Evangelists understand: In the case of reaping souls, much of the work is already done: “Today is the day of salvation.”

Is evangelism really easier than most people think? Is this scenario realistic? Does it work? To answer, here’s a true story.

Here’s what I want you to do. Grab three keys.

First Key: Pray

  • That you be filled with the Holy Spirit (Eph 5:18)
  • That God will open your mouth (Eph 6:19-20)
  • That God will lead you to the hungry (John 4:34-38)
  • You don’t need to take extra time
  • You don’t need to plan
  • You don’t need to go out of your way
  • Just go about your regular business, and as you are going . . .

Second Key: “As you are going . . .  “ (literal Greek for Matt 28:19)

  • You don’t need to take extra time
  • You don’t need to plan
  • You don’t need to go out of your way
  • Just go about your regular business, and as you are going . . .

Third Key: Pop the God Question early

  • Do it before you chicken out.
  • Ask “Have you received Jesus Christ into your life?” (or similar question)
  • Expect a yes or no answer.
  • If yes, encourage them and talk about it. Ex: Great! How did it happen for you?
  • If no, give them the gospel in story or testimony.
  • Follow with “Is there any reason why you would not want to receive Jesus right now?
  • Let them pray (or pray with them) to receive Christ

Chicken evangelism makes soul-winning easier than most people think. It’s a way to bypass fear by bringing God into the conversation right away. It’s an adventure and it’s easy.

What do you think? Drop me a comment. I’m interested in your thoughts. Or better yet, are you willing to give Chicken Evangelism a try? If you are, contact me and let me know how it goes. I’ll talk with you.

Flower Girl Receives Christ!

Flower Girl Receives Christ
Flower Girl Receives Christ

Get Filled with the Holy Spirit

People understand the fullness of the Holy Spirit in various ways. No matter how you understand it, most agree that the Holy Spirit and His fullness influence and empower witnessing to unbelievers. Jesus promised, “[But] you shall receive power when the Holy Spirit has come upon you, and you shall be My witnesses both in Jerusalem, and in all Judea and Samaria, and even to the remotes part of the earth (Acts 1:8).

Speaking in tongues in my morning prayer time makes a monumental difference for me. Without getting filled with the Holy Spirit, I’m a no-show when it comes to witnessing. Praying in tongues fills me with His Spirit and keeps me that way. It lifts me out of myself and gives me a “lightness” that I don’t normally possess in my mundane self.

Whatever works for you, or however you understand “being filled with the Holy Spirit,” get some power to speak of Jesus to unbelievers. The Holy Spirit is God’s “Provider” to help us witness. Don’t leave home without Him!

The story below is an example of how God’s Spirit helped me lead a girl to salvation in Christ.

Flower Girl Receives Salvation through Christ

I went to the flower shop at our local Hy-Vee store to buy flowers for my wife. After selecting a beautiful pink rose, I came to the counter to pay. The young attendant was helpful. Since she was not busy with other customers, I asked her, “Have you received Jesus Christ into your life?”

[BTW, the girl in the photo is not the actual girl that received Christ. It’s a good picture from Unsplash and I would give credit if I had not lost she proper info.]

“My mother attends mass every week,” she replied. Instantly I knew she personally had no real connection with the Savior. She added that occasionally she attended with her mom.

“That’s great!” I answered. “Then you may have heard that Jesus Christ died for your sins and rose again from the dead.” She nodded, but made no reply.

My answer surprised me. In the past I had never known what to say to Roman Catholics. I knew some were saved and some not, as in every denomination. For some reason I had always been stymied in trying to witness to Catholics. With my answer this time, I sensed the Holy Spirit was present and leading me. He was teaching me and giving me a word of wisdom to help the flower girl.

I continued with fresh enthusiasm. “This is the good news. Jesus died for our sins, rose from death, and is offering us a free gift—eternal life.” She kept focusing on what I was saying.

Right then another employee came, heard us talking, and interrupted. I didn’t know what to do, so I asked him the same question, “Have you received Jesus Christ into your life?” He answered affirmatively, then poured cold water on the conversation by saying, “Yes, but I don’t want to talk about it!” I was so riled I could have wrung his neck. Fortunately, he left the area and went on his way leaving me alone at the counter with the flower girl.

You can be certain I prayed fervently for no more interruptions!

“I have really great news for you. Jesus Christ died for our sins. He rose again from the dead. He has a free gift of salvation for all who receive Him by faith. Does this make sense to you?” She wasn’t sure. It seemed like new thoughts to her.

So I continued. “It’s not how good or bad we are. It’s a free gift which we can receive in childlike trust. He’s offering it to you right now. Would you like to receive Jesus and His free gift into your heart?”

She nodded affirmatively this time and said, “Yes.”

“Then go ahead and ask Jesus into your heart right here. No one will know what you are doing,” I informed her. She bowed her head and prayed there at the counter. (For my part, I prayed for all I was worth that no customers would come right then. None came!)

After prayer the flower girl lifted her eyes and smiled with the most beautiful radiance that the world can ever hope to see. It’s the radiance of a newborn babe in Christ that only those who have led another to faith in the Savior have the privilege to see. I prayed aloud and asked God to seal and anchor the eternal work God had done in her life.

I left her with her newly acquired radiance, took the flowers for my wife, and went on my way rejoicing.

What is an “Open Heaven?”

What is an “Open Heaven”?

Do you live with an open heaven?

One night I had a dream where one angel was telling another angel to “move the golden hole.” Hmmn . . .

It was like there was a “hole” or “window” in heaven that they moved over a young man we know. He was in his 40’s and not yet married, although he desired to be married.

I knew instinctively that he was going to be blessed and would be married soon after the “window” of heaven had been “moved” above him.

And, yes, he was soon married after I had the dream.

This got me thinking. What causes God to open heaven for us? What can we do that moves God or the angels to move “the golden hole” above us? What are some of the ways that God opens heaven?

I was able to spot several instances in His word that specifically state the heavens opening.

1. Tithing – Malachi 3:10

“Bring the whole tithe into the storehouse, so that there may be food in My house, and test Me now in this,” says the LORD of hosts, “if I will not open for you the windows of heaven and pour out for you a blessing until it overflows.”

2. Water Baptism – Mark 1:10

“Immediately coming up out of the water, He saw the heavens opening, and the Spirit like a dove descending upon Him;” Matthew 3:16

“After being baptized, Jesus came up immediately from the water; and behold, the heavens were opened, and he saw the Spirit of God descending as a dove and lighting on Him,” Luke 3:21

“Now when all the people were baptized, Jesus was also baptized, and while He was praying, heaven was opened.”

3. Prayer – Acts 10:11

“On the next day, as they were on their way and approaching the city, Peter went up on the housetop about the sixth hour to pray. But he became hungry and was desiring to eat; but while they were making preparations, he fell into a trance; and he saw the sky opened up, and an object like a great sheet coming down, lowered by four corners to the ground.”

4. Full of Holy Spirit/martyrdom

“But being full of the Holy Spirit, he (Stephen) gazed intently into heaven and saw the glory of God, and Jesus standing at the right hand of God;” and he said, “Behold, I see the heavens opened up and the Son of Man standing at the right hand of God.” Acts 7:55,56

5. Seen by Jesus

Jesus answered and said to him (Nathaniel), “Because I said to you that I saw you under the fig tree, do you believe? You will see greater things than these.”

And He said to him, “Truly, truly, I say to you, you will see the heavens opened and the angels of God ascending and descending on the Son of Man.” John 1:51

6. Divine Dreams

He (Jacob) had a dream, and behold, a ladder was set on the earth with its top reaching to heaven; and behold, the angels of God were ascending and descending on it. Gen 28:11

7. Divine Visions

Now it came about in the thirtieth year, on the fifth day of the fourth month, while I (Ezekiel) was by the river Chebar among the exiles, the heavens were opened and I saw visions of God. Ezekiel 1: 1

After these things I (John) looked, and behold, a door standing open in heaven, and the first voice which I had heard, like the sound of a trumpet speaking with me, said, “Come up here, and I will show you what must take place after these things.” Revelation 4:1-2

And I (John) saw heaven opened, and behold, a white horse, and He who sat on it is called Faithful and True, and in righteousness He judges and wages war. Revelation 19:11

8. Divine Call – Acts 9:3

As he was traveling, it happened that he (Saul) was approaching Damascus, and suddenly a light from heaven flashed around him;

9. Divine Provision – Psalms 78:23,24

“Yet He commanded the clouds above and opened the doors of heaven; He rained down manna upon them to eat and gave them food from heaven.”

There are many ways to get under God’s “open heaven” (God’s abundant blessing) mentioned in His word that don’t specifically call it an “open heaven”. See how many you can find. Hint to get you started: Matthew 5: 2-12.

Photo by NOAA on Unsplash

The Apple and Bun

The Apple and the Bun–Healing Power in Communion

The Apple and the Bun

God Heals through the Eucharist (Holy Communion).

The apple symbolizes death and separation; the bun symbolizes Life and communion with Christ Jesus.

Can you imagine the condition of the Israelites just before the Exodus? They were slaves, harassed and whipped by merciless slave masters. Without a doubt, many were sick, weak, or injured. They were laden with the diseases of Egypt. Then, in one night, something dramatic, something as momentous as the Exodus itself occurred.

They ate the Passover Lamb.

Psalm 105:37 relates the thrilling result of eating this Lamb, the figure of Christ Jesus:

Then He brought them out with silver and gold, and among His tribes there was not one who stumbled.

The King James Version translates and there was not one feeble person among their tribes.

And all of them were healthy and strong states the Good News Translation.

Oh, the power of the Lamb! The Passover Lamb was for the healing of a nation! Oh, to claim the power of the Passover Feast.

Communion (Lord’s Supper, Last Supper, Eucharist or whatever we choose to call it) is rooted in the Passover. As historic as the Passover is, it is merely the forerunner of the Eucharist. The Lord’s Supper is the fulfillment of the Passover. The Eucharist is the perfection of the Passover and completes it’s purpose and power. If the passover was powerful, the communion is designed to be even more potent.

Look with me at the Lord’s Supper.


The Apple and Bun

Eve (and Adam) ate the apple. The world immediately fell into sin. We call it The Fall. Genesis laments their choice and expulsion.

Christ died on the cross. The world was gloriously lifted out of sin. We call it Redemption. Communion celebrates His death and resurrection.

Adam ate in unbelief; in contrast, Christ tasted death in faith.

Adam bit the apple in disobedience. Christ tasted death in obedience.

Adam’s act in unbelief destined the world to death; Christ’s act in faith destined the world to life for all who believe.

Adam’s lack of trust brought a curse; Christ’s faithfulness issued a never-ending blessing.

Adam’s sin brought condemnation; Christ’s obedience brought the twin free gifts — the abundance of grace and the gift of eternal righteousness (Romans 5:17).

Adam’s act brought separation from God; Christ’s act brought communion with God.

In communion, we eat the bun, the Bread of Life.

Just as Adam’s act of disobedience (eating the apple) brought a certain curse, so Christ’s act of obedience brings certain blessings.

To eat the Bun (the Bread) is to reverse the curse of the apple. Jesus said, This is My body, broken for you. Certain consequences automatically ensued when Adam ate the apple. In a different way, certain results supernaturally pursue those who eat the Bun in faith.

I say, in a different way, because the Bible emphasizes the results of the death of Christ are MUCH MORE in magnitude, in power, and in certainty than the results of the sin of Adam. The death of Christ is NOT like the sin of Adam. The results of the death of Christ and the eating of the loaf (the Bun) are much more certain and powerful.

Supernatural breakouts are automatically designed to emanate from tasting the Bun in faith during this God designed event, the Eucharist.

Power of God at Communion

In her book Miracles Do Happen, Sister Briege McKenna, O.S. C. relates the following story about a mass in a rural area of Latin America.



…I realized the important aspect of the Eucharis is not what I do, but what Jesus does and what I allow Him to do in Me. I must let the loving Jesus heal me and transform me through His body and blood. It is not my effort alone, but His action, that transforms me.


A little boy was brought there who was suffering from very severe burns and sores on his body. I remember thinking, “My goodness, there’s nothing that can be done. It’s so bad. We have no doctors or medicine here.”


We prayed with the little boy, then the priest said to the old woman wo had carried him to the mass, “Just leave him under the table here and let’s continue with the celebration of the Eucharist.”


As the mass progressed, I was overwhelmed at the participation of the people in the mass.


As we approached the consecration, I had my eyes closed. When I opened them I discovered that the people were prostrated on the ground. They lifted up their eyes to adore the Lord. The look on their faces made me think, “They really believe that this is Jesus.” Then when I looked at the sacred Host [at Jesus], in my own imagination, I got the most beautiful image of Jesus with His two hands out. He was smiling with great love and compassion.


After this mass, I went around to see how the little boy was. He had been placed under the table which served as the altar. But he wasn’t there. I said to the woman who had brought him to the mass, “Where is he?” She said, pointing to a group of children playing nearby, “There he is.”


I looked at the child and he was fine. There wasn’t a thing wrong with his little body.


I said aloud, but more to myself, “What happened to him?”


The old woman looked at me and said, “What do you mean, ‘What happened?’ Didn’t Jesus come?”

Here are the points. There are certain, definite results for those who follow the man who tasted the apple in the garden: sin, sickness and death. There are certain, definite results for those who follow the Man who tasted death on the cross: forgiveness, health and eternal life.

According to Romans 5 the latter is much more certain than the former!

Holy Communion (eating the Bun) connects the believer with the crucified and risen Lord Jesus Christ.

What are You Eating — The Apple or the Bun?

The Apple and the Bun.

There’s more to this than a catchy title. Jesus said, “This is My body.” Let’s chew on that awhile.

We have seen spontaneous deliverance and other supernatural manifestations at Holy Communion. I am expecting to see more. At our next communion, let’s expect to meet Christ and experience His manifestation.

What have you seen as a result of the Lord’s Supper? Do me a favor and pass on what God is doing in your church or your own experience of Holy Communion.