Cataclysm in Atlanta

catalysm: 1. a momentous and violent event marked by overwhelming upheaval and demolition; 2. an event that brings great changes. 

Arguably the most influential evangelical event in the world; the 2012 Catalyst Conference has closed its doors on yet another year. (Though they have many regional conferences). 

With this passing comes the overwhelming feeling that mainline evangelicalism has entered into a species of apostasy not seen since the time of Christ. 

Amazingly, and just when it appeared that the 150 year old 'Exxon-Valdez-Oil-Spill' of liberal theology had finally been contained; yet another barge has struck, carrying far deadlier cargo, and in much greater abundance.

 

The stated goal of this conference is to ignite a passion for Christ. Undoubtedly, this is a worthy goal. One must press on to ask, however, if this goal can be attained through one of the most bizarre marriages to this world-system that a professing Christian group has ever recorded. 

That 13,000 Christian leaders gathered in Atlanta to be exposed to some of the crassest entertainment possible; to hear from some of the strangest speakers conceivable;  and be instructed by some of the most unholy men imaginable, is a clear sign that powerful, creed-affirming, evangelical leaders have been given over to a terrible, terrible deception. 

May God protect us in these evil days, and may we be ever certain that our houses are built on Christ that solid rock; for the coming storms will test every man's foundation. Of this we can be sure. 

"Let he who has an ear hear what the Spirit is saying to the churches" (Revelation 2:7 et al.) 

"Leather Festival" in San Francisco (Pt. 2)

The Folsom Street Fair is the largest sadomasochistic event in the world and the last place I ever envisioned preaching the gospel. In fact I was determined not to. Apparently, the Lord had other plans. You can read a little bit about how we ended up there here.

We made our way over to the fair, and in situations like this there is really nothing else to do but walk right into the thing and start offering people Christ. So that's exactly what Nate did. I marveled to see the courage of this 20 year old fearlessly preaching Jesus in the midst of the most difficult circumstances conceivable. 

**Editorial Note: Young Christians, you do not have to 'try out the world' for seven years before you give it all up for Christ. You can have joy unspeakable now by simply laying it all down for the sake of the gospel :)

Sadly, it did not last long. Two police officers came over and explained that this would create a very difficult and dangerous situation for them and so they respectfully asked us to either move to the free speech zone or to cease all together. We struck a compromise where we agreed to preach right outside the entrance/exit of the fair. This worked out just as well, as all coming in and going out would have to pass by the glad-tidings. 

Once we reached our new location I began preaching. It was an extremely powerful experience and it showed me the power of the gospel and the love of God in a way that I have never experienced before. Here's how:

I. I knew theologically that I was no better than any of those people I was preaching to - but the Lord made this clear to my understanding in a very profound way. Its hard to explain - but I just knew, in the depths of my being, that the only thing that made me different from them was amazing grace.

II. The above experience gave the preaching tremendous 'contextualization.' I was speaking to their consciences and they knew it. How? What possible worldview categories could I share with people who celebrate the most deviant and ghastly behaviors,  devoting much of their lives to 'inventing new forms of evil' (Romans 1:30)???

As I said before, I knew was just like them. Yes, the power of sin has been broken in my life and I now have a principal in my members which wars against my corruption - but, alas, that corruption is ever present and it was not all that long ago when it reigned unchallenged. Simply put, I was speaking to them as a fellow sinner and not as a glorified saint. This gave them ears to hear. 

**Editorial Note: Young Christians, you do not have to get tattoos, drink a bunch of beer, and cuss in order to contextualize the gospel to unbelievers. Rest assured that you share the same devilish nature with them; thus mortify your sin, live holy in Christ Jesus, and simply go tell the starving man about where you found the Bread of Life :)

III. I simply cannot comprehend the power of the gospel. The Lord shut the mouths of the Lions!  Bless God, the gospel was going forth with such authority that it simply could not be shouted down.    Countless times I would look up, see someone just about to rail me, and then simply put their heads down and walk away. As Kuyper reminded us, there is not one square inch in the universe of which  the the sovereign Christ does not say "Mine!" Jesus was establishing His dominion - even over Sodom. 

IV. The content and context of the message: Obviously, everything pointed to Christ - primarily as the giver of life. This was the great argument: They believed that their sexual deviance was the very definition of life - but I explained to them that it was rather the very shackles of death; and that they knew it. 

When they lay in bed at night, they knew it. As they shuffled out of that fair, they knew it. As they got in their cars and drove home, they knew it. I could see it on their faces. They knew it. 

The preaching was very much - and I can't quite explain it - but it was very much the Father rebuking wayward children. No, I am not theologically confused, somehow suggesting that unrepentant sinners are 'children of God' other than the fact that God did create them, and does love them - and He was definitely making His appeal through me to 'leave the pig stye and come home.'

V. Finally, and very importantly - the Lord completely protected us from all defilement. This is huge. He knows how to preserve His people in the midst of unimaginable sin. This was Nate's testimony as well. Not a single stain on our garments after swimming in a sea of filth. Only God!

As we were leaving - that was when the railing began. People started shouting all sorts of unspeakable things from the apartment buildings that towered above us. I turned to Nate and said "Blessed are you when people revile you and utter all sorts of evil against you on My account, for great is your reward in heaven, for in the same way they persecuted the prophets who were before you" (Matt. 5:11-12). Nate said in return, "I feel like we just popped out of the book of Acts."

Amen. May it be so. 

"Leather Festival" in San Francisco (Part 1)

**Mature Content**

The $10 parking lots that are normally empty on Sundays were charging $40 and were completely full. With the exception of 'Gay Pride' weekend it was the busiest I have ever seen the city.

We asked around and come to find out that all the hoopla was over Folsom Street's annual "Leather Festival." Yes, I know.

Essentially it's a giant gathering for sado masochist aficionados. The largest of its kind in the world. Demonic with a capitial 'D' and without question, the last place on earth I wanted to preach.

We got away from that scene as fast as we could and headed down to the trolley stop where we had a rather strange encounter. An elderly African-American gentleman approached us and said, "You know, you boys should really be down preaching at that there leather festival. Those are the folks that really need it. That would be a great challenge for you. You ain't scared, are you?"

Nate and I just looked at each other quizzically and after prayer I started preaching. I could tell it was going to be a powerful day. Prior to heading into the city my soul had been in turmoil for hours. This is the kind of warfare that usually foreshadows a lot of 'spiritual movement.'

Sure enough, the Lord saw fit to attend the proclamation with clarity and unction. Unfortunately, there was not the crowd that we usually see down there; so Nate did the unthinkable: He suggested that maybe we should head down to the 'Leather Festival.'

So we did....

[Part 2 Soon]

The Catalyst of the Coming Persecution

The Atlanta Catalyst Conference, according to it’s organizers, is a “movement of world changers who love Jesus, see things differently, and feel a burden for our generation.” They go on to explain that their supreme passion is “the pursuit of God.” Scores have joined this pursuit. Evidence: even at $300 a ticket, they are having no problems filling stadiums of over 13,000 seats. The conference aims to minister to Christian leaders under 40 years of age. 
    
The movement is the brainchild of Andy Stanley, pastor of the second biggest congregation in the United States - North Point Community Church. The list of speakers for the three day event reads like a virtual Who’s Who of the country’s brightest and most influential thinkers. As a result, people from all over the globe are flocking to hear this eclectic ensemble of best selling authors, television producers, mega-church pastors, and progressive politicians, expound to them the principals of success which they have so obviously mastered. 

For example, Mark Burnett will be explaining to church leaders how to put forth a more viable product for their constituency. The super-producer who is the juggernaut behind blockbuster’s like the “MTV Movie Awards” and “The Celebrity Apprentice” obviously knows a thing or two about marketing. He is indeed in elite company, being one of the only producers to have a renewed series on each of the four major networks. 

Sam Adams, mayor of the beautiful city of Portland, Oregon will be addressing attendees on the subject of leadership. Sam is one of a handful of openly homosexual mayors in the country and the Catalyst webpage bio on him informs us that his partner, Peter Zuckerman, is an author. 

A lighting-rod for controversy of late, Catalyst founder Pastor Andy Stanley sent considerable shock-waves throughout the evangelical world when he not-so-clandestinely celebrated the new possibilities available to homosexuals who want to have families of their own. Stanley cited a gay couple from his own fellowship as an example. Al Mohler did a good job explaining the obvious dilemma this places evangelicals in when one of it’s most visible personalities sanctions and seemingly celebrates same-sex relationships.

Thickening the plot, three great pillars of the younger evangelical world - Matt Chandler, Francis Chan, and David Platt will be headlining the conference. The latter two are household names since their respective best-selling books Crazy Love and Radical have defined afresh what trenchant obedience to Jesus looks like. 

As these men have so persuasively reminded us, one of the more conspicuous features of fidelity to Christ has always been a healthy separation with this world system and the unbelievers who propagate its views (2 Cor. 6:14). Evangelicals hold this value of separation as part of their creed and authors like Chan and Platt have sold scores of books exhorting the church to examine their profession in light of this New Testament doctrine. Faithful have they been in challenging us to follow the Lord wherever He leads. 

This places before us a rather obvious question: Would the Lord lead one of His faithful servants to participate in a conference like Catalyst? Perhaps. He has often put His prophets in tight spots. 

Elijah, for example, was once at a worship service with 400 of Baal's choicest spokesmen and even Jesus walked in the midst of the money changers on a couple of occasions. The fact that both of these encounters ended badly, however, does not bode well for Chandler, Chan, nor Platt. 

A couple of things could happen at this event. If they do the obvious and ‘call-out’ what appears to be the boldest attempt yet to yoke the evangelical church with the world, then they may find themselves running for their lives on the backside of a desert like Elijah - or even worse - being ‘escorted’ to the brow of a hill as Jesus was by His townsfolk.

Or... they could say nothing and simply ‘spread the light.’ This, in our opinion, would place them in an even a tighter spot, for then they would have validated a movement that is clearly awry by lending their august names to it’s billboard. This would confuse a lot of sheep to say the least. 

In what must be considered a striking providence, Catalyst is not the only Christian conference in Atlanta on this weekend. A few miles away a much smaller gathering entitled “The Coming Persecution” will commence. Unlike Catalyst, a stadium will not be necessary. The organizers report that a comparatively tiny number have registered - even though the event is completely free. 

The speakers at this conference are perhaps a bit radical (to borrow Mr. Platt's word). They receive no payment for their services, they are convinced that a global persecution is imminent, and they stubbornly preach the most unpalatable of all messages - that judgment will soon begin in the house of the Lord. 

The convergence of these two conferences in the same city on the same days is a prophetic sign and in this way: The "Catalyst" gathering will undoubtedly be a major catalyst in the coming persecution that the  "Coming Persecution" folks assure us is at the door (pun, by divine decree, unintended).

Here's one possible scenario: If Chan, Platt, and Chandler do not distinguish themselves from this movement by speaking out against it’s unlawful marriage with the world then a new mould could be cast for tens of thousands of younger evangelicals - and for years to come. 

The great doctrine of separation will be shelved, the social gospel will again replace the promises, and the pragmatic model, which we thought was in the very throws of death, will rise again to horrific resurrection power. 

When the prophets eventually arise in protest they will find themselves out numbered ten-thousand to one, and unless a fiery chariot whirlwinds down to the rescue, their heads may indeed end up on a platter. Especially if they go preaching in Portland.

We shall see. We shall indeed see. 

Angry Atheist vs. Sovereign God

Recently at the Santa Rosa Street Fair we were being heckled by a militant atheist. It's kind of funny because he actually looked like Charles Darwin. Anyway, he was more of a nuisance than anything else, but I could tell that as soon Nate started preaching he was going to be a real problem.

I told Nate, "Let's pray about this guy." Once we bowed in prayer he even started heckling us then: "Oh what a bunch of bull. Do you really think God hears you? What a bunch of superstitious garbage," etc., etc.

We prayed, "Lord, we know that it is your will that your gospel go fourth and this man is proving to be a real distraction. We ask that you would please remove him so that your word may be proclaimed without hindrance."

The Atheist heard every word of the prayer and all he had to do in order to 'prove' that God is a farce was to stay and continue to mock.

Nate started preaching and after about 30 seconds I looked up and saw Mr. Atheist walking across the street, never to be seen again.

Soli Deo Gloria

A Year in Review

I realized that my post yesterday was the first in many, many months so I wanted to give a more complete update on what's been happening.

Many businesses operate on a 'fiscal calendar.' In the same way, I believe that there is also a ‘spiritual calendar’ as well.

For me, the spiritual year began on Wednesday, the 21st of September, 2011. It was here that for the first time (after 15 years of being a Christian) I witnessed a true outpouring of the Holy Spirit.

This took place at the Expect Conference in Colorado Springs. I would tell you who the speakers were but it really doesn’t matter - Jesus was there (that’s all that matters) and He poured forth the Promise of the Father. For three days we were at the very gates of heaven.

Even as I am writing this I realized something very interesting. About two years ago the Lord gave me a very clear word when I was walking down the hall of the school where I teach. It was so simple: "Autumn will be your most fruitful season."

It was a wonderful word! I grew up in New England and autumn is breathtakingly beautiful! It is truly a time of Harvest.

Anyway, I realized that autumn began in 2011 on September 23 - the day after the Expect Conference ended! How awesome of God to confirm His word to me with such a clear sign.

Moreover - I turned 40 several days ago and thus autumn has truly begun!

Since that Conference I have seen what I would call 2 general moves of the Holy Spirit at two different 'retreats.' One adult, men's retreat and one college retreat.

I have also seen 1 general move of the Holy Spirit at a local church.

Praise the Lord!!

Santa Rosa Street Fair (8-1-12)

Nate and I went to the Santa Rosa Street Market tonight. This is an extremely difficult and glorious venue to preach at. Difficult because we preach to thousands of youth who are convinced we are their enemies. Glorious because Jesus literally loves these kids through us.

Have you ever felt your heart absolutely break as you plead with lost souls to come to Jesus? Have you ever had the supernatural experience of feeling Christ actually pour His love into your heart as they rail, blaspheme and mock everything that is precious and holy to you.

I met the most beautiful young woman tonight whom we will call Jane. She said, "Let me ask you a question. I am a hermaphrodite. I was co-joined with my brother in the womb and we were incompletely separated. He ended up dying and now no matter what I do I am gay and being gay is a sin."

I told her, "You’re physically broken like me and everyone else. You’re sexually broken like me and everyone else. This is why Jesus came and if you come to Him He will walk you through all these heartaches."

She began to get teary. "You know," she said, "my grandma is dead now but she was the most beautiful person I ever knew and she was a devote Christian." I told her, "Your grandma spent countless hours praying for you - that's why I am standing before you tonight. Would you take another look at Jesus?"

She looked at me and said, "I will."

Church; can I be real with you? What happened tonight was 10 billion times better than any foolish softball game. I weep for the church as she amuses herself to death. I pray she would repent of her lukewarmness and enter the fields; for they are white unto harvest.

Yes, the labor is hard, but there and only there you can find the fullness of joy...




The love of Christ pouring out of Nate...

This is 'Outreach' 



Pacific Beach Men's Retreat

This weekend I had the unspeakable privilege of preaching at the P.B. Bible Church Men's Retreat. The Lord's Presence was powerfully among us.

I stopped the first sermon a little short as I observed that most of the men were weeping. The Lord fell on our meeting. One man ran out sobbing uncontrollably, shouting "I have to get things right with my wife." Several men went to call loved ones and told them to come up to the meeting as it appeared we were near revival conditions.

The next three sessions went extremely well, but there was definitely not the same sense of God's Presence as at our first session; which leads me to ask the question: "Did we somehow grieve the Spirit of God?" My fear is we may have, though I am not exactly sure how at this point.

My life was profoundly changed at this retreat though and it did much to deepen my conviction that the church of Jesus Christ desperatly needs a revival. We must have Christ come visit us in power.

The Pruning Principle

I preached this sermon at 360 Church of Petaluma on 1/21/12. I am unspeakably thankful for the Lord's Presence at this meeting and the many reports I heard afterwards of changed lives. May God send the revival we so desperately need.

Great Article

Here is a great article on the lost art of street preaching.

Ashley (1-16-12)

Ki-Ki and I headed into the city today. We set up at the trolley turn-around on Market & Powell. I explained Romans 1:16-17 to the crowd for a while. The Lord blessed me with a considerable amount of clarity and conviction and thus many paid attention to the words spoken.

After about twenty minutes, William the tap dancer showed up with his massive sound system. Once he arrives on the scene he pretty much drowns out all noise but his own; and not to mention that what he does is actually illegal since San Francisco municipal codes only allow for ten watts of amplification and his system is clearly over two-hundred! For whatever reason though the police do not hassle him.

Once he started dancing we headed up to Union Square for a while. That did not last long however since one really needs to project one's voice to be heard over the cars and thus the unamplified preacher soon becomes hoarse.

So we headed back down to Market and set up outside of Westgate Mall. As I stood there I remember praying audibly to the Lord, "What possible hope is there of reaching these people? Please Lord, do something."

I was preaching for about two minutes when I noticed a girl who stopped to hear what I was saying. As I was talking about Christ I could tell that something was going on in her heart so I began to very aggressively expound on His grace - fixing my attention on her the whole time.

As I would declare things like, "Jesus says that if you come to Him, He will never cast you away" and "He's the Great Physician and He is ready to restore your soul," I noticed that she began crying and thus I began speaking directly to her: "He's ready to wash all your sins away. Will you come to Him?" "He's ready to take all your shame away, Will you come to Him?" "He said He would pardon the worst of sinners, Will you come to Him?"

At that point this young lady pretty much started weeping - in fact several people stopped to see what was going on.  I stepped down off my 'soapbox' and asked her to come over to me. When she did I asked her if she wanted to come to Jesus. She said - through many tears - that she did, but she did not know how to and she feared that He would not accept her for all that she has done.

So we both cried out together to the Lord that He would indeed meet this poor broken soul where she was at and reveal His amazing grace to her.  I have good reason to believe that He did.

Her name is Ashley and it turns out that about a month ago she was singing in a brass band downtown and she heard us preaching and said that something happened to her then that she was not able to forget.

How gracious of the Lord to cause our paths to cross again; one time for the sowing and another time for the reaping.

When we were leaving Ki-Ki said to me "Why was that girl crying?" I said, "Because it seems like she just came to the Lord." It was a special moment for sure.

God bless you as you simply and sincerely "Declare His glory among the nations!" (Psalm 96:3).

December Update

I have been taking Ki-Ki into the city with me. He has been begging me to go preaching. At first I was apprehensive, but it has ended being up  some incredibly precious time together. He is technically still in diapers but is nevertheless extremely excited about proclaiming the gospel. The second we get off the bus he says, "can I preach first"?

His message is pretty simple: "Come to Jesus, and He will give you rest;" but its biblical, and I am very grateful to have this opportunity to disciple him. Go proclaim His glory Ki-Ki, and let "no one despise you for your youth, but set the believers an example in speech, in conduct, in love, in faith, in purity" (1 Tim. 4:12)

I had the privilege of preaching in Times Square a few weeks ago. It really was a dream come true and quite difficult to put into words. Its impossible to truly know the power of the gospel until you see it reach people's hearts even in that chaos. Several people were arrested by the word and sought council from folks in our group. We also had many, many Christians greatly encouraged to see the word being publicly heralded. A few minutes after I started, the most gracious, young, African-American man said to me, "I thank you so much for doing this. Can I buy you a cup of coffee?" He came back a few minutes later with a hot drink and a very generous gift certificate.

Beyond that, the preaching continues in San Francisco unabated. I am grateful for every opportunity to "Declare His glory among the Nations!" (Psalm 96:3).  

Guns, Devils, Eggs & Brooklyn

I have not updated for a couple of months as I have felt too busy. Generally I let the blog sit until someone specifically asks me to update it. That happened twice today, so here goes:

Our main ministry continues to be the streets of San Francisco. This is a dark city and that makes preaching Christ there all the more wonderful.

GUNS

A few weeks ago myself and Chuck were waiting for Jim to come and pick us up and head into the city. Robin was outside cleaning the car when all of a sudden she ran in. The reason why was because three cop cars had the neighborhood on lock down as they were ordering the man that lives across the street out of his car at gun point. After the 30 minute ordeal the cops let him go: mistaken identity.

The man's wife came over very shaken and talked to Chuck and I. We prayed for her and she began weeping profusely. Lesson learned: in preaching the gospel to the masses, don't forget the one hurting soul that may live next door. Jesus didn't and so now I'm glad Jim was late.

DEVILS

In other news, John Crowder came to Petaluma recently. Mr. Crowder is the possibly the worst false teacher alive who claims the name of Christ. He makes Benny Hinn look like John Calvin. You can see him here but I warn you; it's demonic.

Two of my close friends were going to attend his 'service.' There was no clear plan. Basically they were going there in order to pray against it, etc. I told my wife that I was invited, but that I really did not feel like going. She rightfully chastened me: "This is why these false teachers have free reign - because the church sits around and talks about how awful it is, but then does nothing." I felt convicted, so I went. I knew I needed to be there.

This is what happened in a nutshell: Got there at six (the official 'service' started at seven) and started praying. At six thirty a couple Crowder-disciples came spilling out of the venue; 'drunk in the glory' (see video below at 2:17).

At that point I saw how completely unprepared I was to enter into that vile temple. My friend said that it looked like I had seen a ghost. My chest got real tight and I told them that I needed to go for a walk and be alone and that I would meet them in there.

When I finally went in the 'service' was about to begin. How do I explain it? There is no way to. If you want to know what it was like, I would simply ask you to read Exodus 32:1-6.

After they continued their 'drunken-glory' dancing for about half an hour (see 2:17 into this video) I told my friend that I was going to take off in a few minutes. It just did not seem that I was doing anything but getting defiled. As I was about to leave, something very providential happened. The man who was setting up the microphone system for Crowder did something wrong and it made one of the loudest 'booms' I have ever heard. The 'drunken-glory-dancers' sobered up right away.

What happened next was uncanny. In the flash of a second I imagined all these people before the Great White Throne - eternally sobered - saying to Jesus, "But Lord, Lord, did we not dance in your name, and spread the drunken glory in your name?" You know how the rest goes... (Matt. 7:21-23).

I will not go into great detail about what happened next, but the organizer of the event came over and grabbed me by the neck and just about everyone in the meeting rushed over to escort us out. I felt like the gates of hell had been opened and every demon was coming at me in fury.

For the glory of Christ, and the protection of your own soul in these last days, I would invite you to listen very carefully to what happened next: Two women pushed through the crowd and began to lay hands on me and flatter me in every way possible. Clearly, clearly, they were operating under an unclean spirit.

Every time they would lay their hands on me I would push them off. Finally one said to me (with a look in her eyes I could never quite describe) "You have such a beautiful, powerful voice. I bet you are a street preacher - yes, you are a street preacher in San Francisco - Oh that's wonderful." It was so clear what was happening - a demon was telling her information about me (Acts 16:16).  Immediately I rebuked it and exposed it for what it was. About twenty minutes later she went on to tell me things about me that she could not possibly otherwise know. Dark days are coming, church. Are we ready?

I want to put on record what happened next - just in case anyone doubts the spirit that this (Crowder's)ministry is working under; and what I am about to say was witnessed by dozens of people.

By some miracle, they let me back into the meeting. My friend Tim said to the organizer, "Why did you kick my friend out?" The man said he didn't. Lie. Scores saw him grab my neck and push me out. What Tim said next was so wise that it must have been from the Lord: "Well, if you didn't kick him out, then why don't you let him back in?"

What was the guy to say? Tim had called him out in front of a lot of people. Unbelievably, he said OK. The sea of people parted and in almost what I would describe as an out-of-body experience I found myself making a bee-line towards Crowder himself.

He is a big man, but he was hunched over and would not look up at me. I bent down and said, "Sir, do you know that you are a devil?" He walked around his pulpit and put his arm around me. I immediately felt incredibly defiled. What he did to me next goes beyond the bounds of Christian modesty so I will just leave it at that - but everyone in that meeting saw what he did and if they continue to follow this man then their blood will be on their own heads (Ezekiel 33:9).

I will say what he whispered in my ear though. Seemingly in the voice of Lucifer himself he said "If you want to stay, you have to play" (which brings us back to Exodus 32).

Anyway, enough of this. I went home, took the longest shower of my life, had my wife anoint me with oil and went to bed.

EGGS

Jim and I hosted our first 'Preacher's Breakfast' this morning. About twelve or thirteen guys showed up. We all ate together and then headed into the city to proclaim the gospel. It was a glorious day indeed. We prayed with about twelve people and several men who have never preached before, 'Declared His glory among the heathen' (Ps. 96:3). A fire is spreading in Sonoma County.

BROOKLYN

Finally, I am heading to New York with the 360 gang to preach the gospel and visit two of the most powerful local churches in the country: The Brooklyn Tabernacle and Times Square Church. It should be absolutely amazing: Please pray for traveling mercies and a fruitful visit...

God bless you as you simply and sincerely tell people about Jesus....

Punched or Praised?

In Philippians 1:29 Paul reminds the Christians in that city that as surely as they have believed in Christ, so they will also suffer for His name; as they walk in a manner worthy of the gospel (v. 27).
And just so they completely understood what he meant by 'suffering' he explained to them that it would be 'the same conflict that you saw I had' (v.30).

So I ask myself, what was that suffering and conflict that the Philippians had observed in Paul's life? Acts 16 tells us. Essentially, it was that he was beaten - physically. First by the local businessmen, then by the crowds and finally by the magistrates (Acts 16:19-24). This, of course, was how Paul was treated in every city he went (Acts 20:23).

Yes you say, but that was Paul. He was not talking about or to the average Christian. Yes he was; for that is not only the immediate context of this passage but also the proportion of the entire New Testament. A servant is not above his master. If they hated Jesus then they will hate you as you follow Him.

So I offer this question to Christian men in general, but specifically to those who claim to be called gospel-preachers: When is the last time you have been punched, kicked, spit on or beaten for simply heralding the gospel?

You say, "Well never; the times have changed you know." Yes, times have changed - but the devil has not, nor has this world and neither has the prideful, rebellious heart of man. Perhaps the gospel has changed? Not, of course, that the gospel could ever actually change; but perhaps rather the way you are preaching it?

May God raise up a generation of young men who will judge the success of their preaching not by how many times they have been praised but rather by how many times they have been punched.

"...and they rejoiced that they were counted worthy to suffer dishonor for the Name" (Acts 5:41).

Calling & Anointing

One lesson the Lord has been teaching me of late is the difference between calling and anointing. All Christians have a calling but not all Christians have an anointing.

A calling signifies the place you occupy in Christ's body. Some people are the mouth (speakers), some are the hands (servants) and others are the eyes (prophets), etc. In Romans chapter twelve Paul refers to these callings as 'gifts.' Since all Christians are members of Christ, all have unique callings. And since you can never be taken out of Christ, you will have this calling or 'ministry' for the rest of your life and possibly throughout eternity.

An anointing is something completely different. This is how much of the Presence of God refracts off your life in general and off your ministry specifically. The word 'anoint' literally means 'to smear or pour oil over.' In the biblical worldview, oil is almost always symbolic of the Holy Spirit (1 Sam. 16:13) and thus someone who is 'anointed' has the Holy Spirit 'all over' them. Simply put, an anointed person or ministry will be overflowing with the presence of Jesus.

So why are some Christians anointed and others are not? The first reason should be obvious enough. Most Christians have no overflowing presence of Jesus in their lives or ministries because they are never themselves in the presence of Jesus. There is simply no heart devotion. This is sad but common and I have been there times without number. Christians who don't continually place themselves in the presence of Jesus through prayer and worship will soon lose this 'anointing.' Remember what we are told in Acts: "Now when they saw the boldness of Peter and John, and perceived that they were uneducated, common men, they were astonished. And they recognized that they had been with Jesus" (Acts 4:13).

The second reason why Christians would not have this anointing is equally obvious and I would offer myself as an example: I am called to preach the gospel. I know this. I will preach it till the day I die even if it means that I am killed in doing so. I have no doubt whatsoever of my 'calling.'

I have noticed, however, over the last five or six months; less and less of an anointing on my preaching. Less loving, more crass. Less of a witness, more of an advocate. Less assurance, more striving. Less joy, more angst. Less power, more flesh. Less sincerity, more hypocrisy. Why?

Last week the Lord showed me. It became very clear that I still had feelings of resentment towards a brother. It had been so long and I had become so used to my sin that I hardly even noticed it anymore. My deceitfully wicked heart had got one up on me.

Recently I saw the brother expected the normal small talk that we so often have. Just enough exchange not to be rude and then off we go. This time, however, it was very different. I could tell immediately that he himself was a new man. The thing was so obvious. The presence of Jesus - the anointing - was all over him and as soon as I saw that all my bitterness and resentment completely lifted off of me...never to return.

It was only then that I understood how much this one sin had almost completely eradicated my anointing. I bless God for His mercy and realized afresh that if we want Christ's companionship we can harbor no willful sin - no matter how justified we believe we are in doing so (1 John 1).

As I was driving into the city today to go preach the glorious gospel I was literally weeping over the goodness of God. I got my anointing back simply through another brother getting his back. The presence of Jesus on his life had 'washed away' my sin of resentment! I was so filled with faith and wonder I could have lept for joy. Thousands heard the glad tidings. Indeed, it was the most wonderful day I have had preaching in a long time.

Dear brother or sister...I know you are called. The question remains: are you anointed?

June/July Update

Several weeks ago the entire family went into the city with me. The kids got to see me preach outside a church for the first time. Ki-Ki is still a bit young but a couple of times he got on the box and it looked like he was going to start proclaiming Christ. Hannah was extremely interested the whole time and gave me several texts to expound. Robin offered some much needed advice that I trust, if headed, will make me a better communicator of the good news.

In late June we preached at the Sonoma County Gay Pride Parade. I have a lot to say about that but I can't spend the time right now commenting and developing the points I want to make. Suffice it to say that if evangelical churches continue down the path of cowardice then our lampstands will be removed entirely (Rev. 2:5).  The institutionalization of sin must be boldly confronted with the gospel of Jesus Christ.

Just to give you a glimpse of where we are at; this particular gay pride parade ends every year with a 'Interfaith Service.' Notice that 11 of the 16 faith representatives are professedly Christian. The implication is clear - those who dare to call homosexuality a sin are fast becoming fundamental fringes even within Christendom. Think hard about this brethren, for it is our children who will perish in Sodom's gates and on Gomorrah's alters if the silence continues.

The last several Sunday's I have preached 'alone.' Alone is in quotes because God is always so faithful to bring brethren along to encourage and exhort me. Two weeks ago this happened in an exceptional way. I noticed when I was preaching that a young mom was standing next to me the whole time. It appeared that she was nursing her baby under one of those giant bibs. Anyway, she said that she really appreciated what I was doing but exhorted me to not use 'theological laguage' that she felt was getting lost on my hearers. She also strongly encouraged me to speak more of my own personal testimony. I really took to heart what she said. After she left, her husband (who is a Vineyard pastor) came over and gave me some really anointed encouragement and prayed for me right there. I can't really explain it, but the whole exchange was an extremely powerful experience.

Finally, a young woman named Madeline approached me when I was preaching this last week, truly seeking salvation. Join me in praying for her. That's all for now. May the Lord continue to bless you as you 'Declare His glory among the Nations.'

Come, Let Us Reason Together (SF - 5/28/11)

Reasoning is a critical part of preaching the gospel. God says through the prophet Isaiah “Come now, let us reason together, says the LORD: though your sins are like scarlet, they shall be as white as snow; though they are red like crimson, they shall become like wool (Isa. 1:18). It is not going too far to say that the primary job of the evangelist is to reason with his hearers.

All throughout Acts we read things like, “And they came to Ephesus, and he left them there, but [Paul] went into the synagogue and reasoned with the Jews” (Acts 18:19). Oh to have heard one of those sermons. We can see Paul’s reasoning powers clearly enough in the book of Romans but to have seen that logic set ablaze during the preaching event would have been a sight to behold.

Reasoning is basically the process by which we draw conclusions from a premise or from a set of premises. If I told you that the Red Sox won the World Series in 2004 then from that premise you could conclude that the Yankees did not (among other things).

In preaching, reasoning is essentially exposition. You take a biblical text in hand and you expound it – or, if you prefer – explain it to your hearers. You want to help them draw conclusions about what you are saying. Take for example Jesus’ statement “Very truly I tell you, everyone who sins is a slave to sin” (John 8:34). How could a text like this be expounded?

On this particular day in San Francisco I spent quite a bit of time explaining to my hearers what slavery to sin entailed. For example; sin has dominion over people. It rules them. In other words, no man just flirts with pornography. If he looks at it at all he is bound by it. It controls him and masters him. Or take the liar. No liar lies once, but whenever the need for falsehood arises and until truth is no longer recognizable. Such is the nature of sin - to exhaust itself like a parasite on its host.

Secondly, sin is deceptive. It is patient and spreads the net slowly. I once saw a documentary on wolves in Alaska - how the hunters caught them. They would stick a knife - blade up - into the ground and place a piece of meat on it. The wolf would lick through the frozen meat and eventually start lapping the knife itself. Finally it would bleed to death. This is always the goal of sin - to slowly lead its victim to death.

Finally, sin is hard. “There is no peace,” says the LORD, “for the wicked” (Isa. 48:22). Most slaves will say that their lives are hard. The slave to sin is no different. Oh what a burden jealously is. Oh what a horrible taskmaster is pride and covetousness. Oh what a hard bargain sin drives and what diminishing returns.

So this is how I preach on the streets of San Francisco. I reason with people; and if they have followed me this far; that is, if they are willing to reason with me (and some are) then I give them the Glorious News: “But  if the Son sets you free, you will be free indeed (John 8:36). (!!!!!!) Oh what a glorious gospel!

Market and Stockton (5-14-11)

It would be untrue and harmful if I gave the impression that every time I preached the gospel, heaven was rent in two and a direct beam from the courts of glory pierced my heart as I rapturously proclaimed the glad tidings of the eternal God.

As glorious as the gospel is, my heart is anything but. Left to itself it is cold, unfeeling, unloving and totally indifferent to the things of God. As horrific as it sounds, that is the condition I found myself in for most of the day. Nevertheless, Saturday came with many, many blessings despite my unfortunate condition.

About a year ago a man donated a very expensive (and powerful) piece of sound equipment to our ministry. We had never used it but for whatever reason Jim decided to bring it out on this day. We gave it a whirl and it was amazing. It amplified our voices powerfully without any of the 'shrill' of a bullhorn (which we never use unless absolutely necessary).

In a wonderful providence and with our new equipment in hand - we 'stumbled' across a new location that, almost unbelievably, we had never before considered. The crossroads is Market and Stockton. The amount of foot traffic is staggering and the potential for gospel proclamation is limitless. Indeed, this was a most wonderful development for our ministry.

While Jim was preaching I would often run across the streets and intersections doing sound-checks to determine the range of the new equipment. When I would stand at a crosswalk, I was amazed to hear the people waiting to cross talking about the preaching. If I were standing next to Jim I never would have guessed that. I would have assumed they were talking about their lunches or new shoes or whatever. It made me realize how many seeds are being planted as we proclaim Christ.

It was time for my last preach of the day. We had to leave in a few minutes in order to get home in time for me to make an appointment. Jim said, "last preach of the day; plead with them." Finally, the clouds broke and my cold heart was warmed by the glory of the gospel. Revival sprang forth for a few minutes and I was pleading and preaching Christ in earnest.

Paul told Timothy to 'stir up the gift' that was in him. It turns out that this was all that was necessary to lite the fire again: the realization that this would be the last preach of the day and possibly of my life. The realization that I am a dying man preaching to dying men. The realization that preaching the gospel is not a matter of life or death - it is a matter of heaven or hell.

"A preacher can be sincere on the low ground of prudential ethics and morals, but he becomes earnest only when he seeks the salvation of the souls of his hearers" (Macartney)

Ventura College (4-26-11)

I got to the school around 10:30 AM and went right to the campus police center to see if they had a free speech area.

Officer Castro told me that the whole campus was a free speech zone and thus I walked away very excited at what appeared to be an open door to proclaim Christ to a lot of people.

After about forty minutes of scattered prayer, jittery Scripture reading and serious heart- searching; students started pouring out of their classes and thus I started to preach.

I started with 'the cross as the foolishness and weakness of God' (1 Cor. 1:18-25). By God's grace I immediately felt the glory of the text and began to preach in earnest. After about ten minutes a gentleman came over and told me that I could not, in fact, preach on the campus. I explained that I had already checked in with campus police and that I had received a green light from them. He then said that he was the vice president of the college and thus I would have to listen to him and stop preaching. I told him that I would be happy to if an officer asked me to.

As the VP walked away I could tell he was torn. He would walk away to the police center and then stop and walk back towards me. He did this a couple of times. Finally he came back with Officer Castro. The officer explained to me that although I was not doing anything wrong I should go to the 'Civic Center' office and register with them.

I did not really understand what that meant but I was happy to comply. I went to the office, spoke with Elouise and explained that I was told to see her about formally registering to speak on campus. It turns out that this whole goose-chase was about renting the amphitheater right across from where I was already preaching on the quad. She explained that I would need to fill out the lengthy application, pay the fee and show proof of a million dollar insurance bond. They would let me know in two weeks if I was approved! Things were starting to get complicated.

I went back to see Officer Castro and explained that there must have been some misunderstanding; I did not want to rent the amphitheater and put on a show. I simply wanted to preach the gospel. I asked him plainly if it was against the law to do so. He said it was not, but that 'some people' were having a problem with it.

I went right back to my spot. A couple of Christians asked me what I would be preaching on now. I told them 'Christ the Good Shepherd.' They stood by me. The campus came alive. Christians were giving support, others were starting to jeer, several hundred were listening. The gospel was going forth. It was glorious.

A small crowd had gathered around me. One of them was a young man with a red shirt and a tennis racket. He asked me, 'how do I get my sin forgiven?' I explained to him the gospel. He wanted more clarification and then asked, 'but how do I actually experience this forgiveness?'

I told him to go cry to God for mercy. He asked me how he would know if he received it. I explained to him that he would know....'you can't be raised from the dead spiritually and not know it young man.' The Christians standing around me encouraged him. I pray that the Jesus brought this sheep home.

Finally Officer Castro called me over. It was getting too hot for him. The whole time I was preaching I saw him across the quad on his phone. He said that he was getting too many calls and thus it would be best if I stopped. I agreed. We shook hands and I departed. Here's what I learned:

1) The First Amendment, glorious as it is, means next to nothing. Open doors to preach the gospel are from God - period.

2) Although I have preached the gospel alone on many occasions, I have never actually been alone. The Lord has always sent Christians beside me to encourage me and help me. I am so grateful for this.

3) Preaching Christ must flow out of a heart of worship. I feel the glory of Christ when I preach, but I must feel it so much more. His glory must absorb and control the preacher.

4) When Christians proclaim the gospel they have the full resources of God at their disposal: "All authority in heaven in earth has been given to me....go."

Market and Powell & Union Square (4-16-11)

I have been publicly declaring the gospel now for about fifteen months and if there was ever a day that I wish I could somehow put into a bottle and save, it would have been this Saturday in San Francisco. I am aware of how selfish that sounds. The gospel is all about the glory of God and the salvation of souls - period. And yet the sheer joy I receive from declaring Christ to the masses is so overwhelming that at times that I am tempted to feel guilty. Yesterday was one of those days.


We got to the city around noon and set up camp at Market and Powell. The preaching went like this: "Good afternoon San Francisco. We have come here today to tell you the good news about Jesus Christ, for that is what the word 'gospel' means, literally, 'glad tidings of great joy' and as I am preaching this gospel to you, you should be struck with a sense of the glory of it; it's freeness; it's grace; it's accessibility to even the worst of sinners. And as I preach, what should flood your mind are words like 'liberty' and 'emancipation' and 'forgiveness;' but, if instead, words like 'religion' or 'condemnation' or 'judgment' are coming to your mind as I am preaching, then you are not hearing me nor the gospel correctly."

I then went on to explain to them the desperate condition of man, his depravity, and how great that depravity is, especially when compared to the utter perfections of Christ. Then onto the glory of God in the person of Christ. The glory of His character, His miracles, His patient dealings with sinners; His glory before Pilate; His glory before the Sanhedrin; the glory of His cross; the glory of His words on the cross 'It is finished;' the infinite glory of His resurrection and subsequent ascension to the right hand of the throne of God. The glory of His gracious promises "whoever comes to me I will never cast out" (maybe my favorite), etc., etc.. Then I implore the people with everything in me, 'come to the Savior, fly to Him...He will not cast you out, etc."

Even as I write these words I pant for a street corner to herald them from! Oh what a message we have church! Arise and declare His glory among the heathen!!



Jim preaching at Union Square