Moments of Silence

Yesterday was the 20th anniversary of the 9/11 terrorist attacks. Many Americans recalled what they were doing when four hijacked planes caused the deaths of nearly 3,000 people. Some commemorate that and other events with moments of silence. Is this beneficial?

There’s an old saying, “Silence is golden.” Some people talk too much and would be better off practicing moments of silence. One should be cautious of opening their mouths, especially when they are angry. That way, they won’t utter anything hastily. Ecclesiastes 3:7 says there is ”a time to keep silence, and a time to speak.”

Usually, I spend a few minutes per day “soaking” while soft music is playing in the background. At the very least, it quiets my mind. Often God speaks to me through a vision. However, moments of silence (just like thoughts) don’t take the place of spoken prayers. James 4:2 (KJV) says, “…ye have not, because ye ask not.”

After John Lennon died in 1980, his widow Yoko Ono requested ten minutes of silence on his behalf. That didn’t change John’s eternal destiny. Honoring the dead will not cause them to go from hell to heaven. Their fate has been determined. Psalm 115:17 says, “The dead do not praise the LORD, nor any who go down into silence.”

Religious folk will tell you to be quiet in their institutions and in public like what happened with the two blind men who called out to Jesus for healing (Matthew 20:29-34). People won’t get saved and delivered unless they hear the truth. God gave us mouths to speak. Let’s use them to share the Good News, edify the brethren, and cry out against tyranny and deception.

“Behold, it is written before Me: I will not keep silence…” - Isaiah 65:6

Saved by Tongues?

Today is Pentecost Sunday, which is acknowledged by many churches and is even a holiday in Germany. Pentecost literally means “50.” Fifty days passed from the Resurrection to when early believers received an impartation of power as described in Acts 2…

1 When the Day of Pentecost had fully come, they were all with one accord in one place. 

2 And suddenly there came a sound from heaven, as of a rushing mighty wind, and it filled the whole house where they were sitting. 

3 Then there appeared to them divided tongues, as of fire, and one sat upon each of them. 

4 And they were all filled with the Holy Spirit and began to speak with other tongues, as the Spirit gave them utterance.

The manifestation of speaking of tongues continues to be a controversial topic amongst the Body of Christ. Many believers don’t believe it exists today. Some claim it’s of the devil. Yet tongues can a powerful weapon against demonic forces. I heard John Bevere share a story about a mother and her daughter whose home was broken into by a burglar. This burglar threatened to kill them until the mother started praying in tongues loudly. The burglar got scared and ran away.

A few Christians think speaking in tongues is necessary for salvation. I remember an incident when witnessing to three people smoking outside a McDonald’s in Pennsylvania. One of them named Chelsea wasn’t sure of her eternal destiny. I later learned she was backslidden and went to a church that taught one must be baptized and speak in tongues to be saved. Strangely enough, Chelsea defended that doctrine after praying along with her two friends to get born again.

The Baptism of the Holy Spirit with the evidence of speaking in other tongues is a gift God wants every believer to have. However, salvation is solely based on our faith in the risen Savior. (Acts 16:31, Romans 10:9-10, Ephesians 2:8-9). My sister and her husband weren't Spirit-filled but constantly prayed that I would recognize my need for Jesus. In March 1991, they led me to the Lord. Two months later, I received the Baptism of the Holy Spirit at the Full Gospel church I attended. It took a while before speaking in tongues became natural for me.

When evangelizing, I rarely discuss speaking in tongues with new converts unless they appear to have a hunger for the deeper things of God. My focus is on getting people saved. As J. Lee Grady stated in his latest column: “You may speak in tongues, but if you don't use the Spirit's power to reach lost souls, you have cheapened the definition of a Pentecostal. We often say that tongues is the initial evidence of the infilling of the Spirit. But if someone isn't bold to witness, they can't be full of the Spirit. Lord, give us souls again!”

“And these signs will follow those who believe: In My name they will cast out demons; they will speak with new tongues; they will take up serpents; and if they drink anything deadly, it will by no means hurt them; they will lay hands on the sick, and they will recover.” - Mark 16:17-18

8 Reasons Not to Support Black Lives Matter

Almost a year ago, the death of George Floyd in Minneapolis sparked riots there and in other cities. Then last Sunday, the police shooting of Daunte Wright in the adjoining suburb of Brooklyn Center resulted in more unrest. These and other incidents have spurred greater attention to the Black Lives Matter movement. Their mission “is to eradicate white supremacy and build local power to intervene in violence inflicted on Black communities by the state and vigilantes.” 

Certainly, I’m against racism. However, there are reasons why I will not support BLM…

1. Black Lives Matter dishonors authority. I’ve seen protesters make ugly remarks and gestures toward the police. Those crying “justice for Daunte Wright” need to be reminded he was being arrested for an outstanding warrant. While it’s tragic Daunte was accidentally shot and killed, that wouldn’t have happened if he hadn’t committed another crime: fleeing the police. Romans 13:4 says, “For he is God’s minister to you for good. But if you do evil, be afraid; for he does not bear the sword in vain; for he is God’s minister, an avenger to execute wrath on him who practices evil.” There are consequences for breaking the law.
2. Black Lives Matter disrespects other people’s time. One of their tactics that immediately turned me off to their cause is blocking highways. These types of protests cost time and money for commuters trying to get to work. What if somebody dies because an emergency vehicle cannot get around a BLM protest? Their lives matter, too. Philippians 2:4 says, “Let each of you look out not only for his own interests, but also for the interests of others.”
3. Black Lives Matter has little regard for other people’s property. While some protesters simply display signs and banners, others write graffiti (often profane remarks) on public property and businesses. Greater New York Black Lives Matter president Hawk Newsome warned last year in a Fox News interview that if the United States “doesn’t give us what we want, then we will burn down this system and replace it.” Looting is not the answer. Ephesians 4:28 says, “Let him who stole steal no longer, but rather let him labor, working with his hands what is good, that he may have something to give him who has need.”
4. The BLM website calls for defunding the police. This is a ridiculous idea. Who are we supposed to call when criminals threaten our communities? Without our men and women in blue, there would be more chaos and anarchy. Most law enforcement officials strive to do their jobs with excellence. Far more people die from medical malpractice than police shootings.
5. Black Lives Matter promotes deviant lifestyle choices. Their website states, “We affirm the lives of Black queer and trans folks.” 1 Corinthians 6:18 says, “Flee sexual immorality.”
6. Black Lives Matter promotes anti-Semitism. Their platform has described Israel as an “apartheid state” that perpetrates “genocide” against the Palestinian people. As a result, they endorse the Boycott, Divestment, and Sanctions campaign. Scripture encourages us to bless the Jewish people (Genesis 12:3, Psalm 122:6). The United States has suffered devastating consequences when our government enacts policies against Israel.
7. Black Lives Matter co-founder Patrisse Khan-Cullors and her fellow organizers are avowed Marxists. A Norwegian politician named Petter Eide who represents the Socialist Left Party nominated BLM for the 2021 Nobel Peace Prize. Marxism results in reduced freedom for everyone except those in political power. The Black Lives Matter Global Network Foundation took in over $90 million in 2020. Patrisse has spent at least $3.2 million on personal real estate. The mother of Breonna Taylor (another police shooting victim) has called her local Black Lives Matter chapter a fraud.
8. The Black Lives Matter website calls for banning Donald Trump from future political office and all digital media platforms. The 45th President of the United States isn’t perfect but his policies are more in line with Judeo-Christian values than what the Democratic Party promotes. Trump has First Amendment rights just like every other American.

This past Thursday, I went with two friends to share the gospel with those gathered near the Brooklyn Center Police Department. Many tracts were handed out. Some people received prayer. A few of them got saved. Racial injustice and police brutality are wrong but so are Christians aligning with ungodly causes. One can minister to Black Lives Matter supporters without getting caught up in their agenda. The root problem isn’t black violence or white privilege but sin. The answer is red…the blood of Jesus that washes away our sin if we repent and forgive others.

“You must not follow the crowd in doing wrong. When you are called to testify in a dispute, do not be swayed by the crowd to twist justice.” - Exodus 23:2 (NLT)

A Peculiar Way

Sometimes when God leads us to do something, the outcome doesn’t go as planned. This weekend, my friend Gretchen and I attempted a road trip from Minnesota to Texas. We both prayed before leaving and perceived this was God’s will. The original plan was for us to stay a few days with an intercessor who lives outside Dallas. While checking my text messages in Missouri, I found out the intercessor doesn’t allow dogs in her home. Gretchen had brought along her chihuahua. Nevertheless, we continued our trip since Gretchen has a daughter in Austin she could stay with. Hours later, Gretchen received an emergency phone call from her parents. It became necessary for us to turn around and return to Minnesota. 

This wasn’t a wasted trip from an eternal perspective. Gospel tracts were handed out along the way. One recipient was a McDonald’s employee in Kansas City who had to bring our order out in the rain. She still prayed with me to receive salvation. Jesus said in Luke 15:10, “…there is joy in the presence of the angels of God over one sinner who repents.” Gretchen and I also stopped at the International House of Prayer of Kansas City. She received a prophetic word that ministered to her.

I recall a story told by Kenneth Copeland. One time the Lord instructed him to fly to Israel to minister to one woman. At first, Kenneth questioned this mission as being a bit extravagant. The Lord told him, “I am extravagant...I am never wasteful.” He then asked Kenneth if one of his daughters was on the other side of the world and would only listen to one person, wouldn’t he send that person to get her out of trouble. 

Kenneth replied, “When do I leave?”

One of the cities Gretchen and I drove through was Peculiar, Missouri. One of the two exits from Interstate 49 was “Peculiar Way.” That had me thinking about how God’s ways are often peculiar. We may not fully understand why He leads us to do things that in the natural seem to be poor handling of our resources. However, everything works out for good if we continue trusting in Him.

“Trust in the LORD with all your heart, and lean not on your own understanding; In all your ways acknowledge Him, and He shall direct your paths.” - Proverbs 3:5-6

Monopoly Makeovers

As a boy, I loved playing Monopoly. My parents originally taught me how to play this property trading board game. They soon resisted my requests to play it again because our games took too long. To pass the time on Christmas Eve, my sister and I often played Monopoly before Dad came home from work and we opened presents. One Christmas, Dad brought home a borrowed Nintendo Entertainment System that included a Monopoly cartridge. I played that several times on our TV.

The classic version of Monopoly released in 1935 has properties named after locations in or near Atlantic City, New Jersey. In recent years, numerous specialty editions have come out with renamed properties connected with movies, colleges, or other themes. Updates of the game include new game pieces and credit cards for purchases instead of cash.

This past Thursday, Hasbro announced Monopoly will get a “long overdue” socially conscious makeover. All sixteen of Monopoly’s Community Chest cards will be changed. Gone will be “outdated concepts” like collecting $10 for winning second place in a beauty contest. A website has been set up where people can vote for their favorite newer cards. Here are some examples…

“You rescue a puppy — and you feel rescued, too! GET OUT OF JAIL FREE.”

“You pass out umbrellas to people standing at a bus stop on a rainy Monday morning. COLLECT $10 FROM EACH PLAYER.”

“You held a neighborhood party — but you didn't recycle your trash! PAY $100.”

There’s already a Go Green edition of Monopoly for the environmentally-conscious. While I’m all for being good stewards of our planet’s resources and helping the less fortunate, I resent the idea of getting fined for not recycling or being forced to pay for someone else’s random act of kindness.

Hopefully, Hasbro will continue manufacturing Monopoly games with the original Community Chest cards. I have no interest in playing an edition appealing to those who have an unwarranted sense of entitlement. In real life, God rewards those who multiply their resources without being concerned about how people think of them.

“Take heed that you do not do your charitable deeds before men, to be seen by them. Otherwise you have no reward from your Father in heaven.” - Matthew 6:1

Believe and Receive

Let’s suppose you were a parent with five children. One of your sons came up and asked if you would take the family to the mall. You reply, “Sure. We’ll go there this afternoon.”

A minute later, your other son who overheard his brother asks if you would take the family to the mall. You reply, “I already told your brother I’d do that.”

Seconds later, one of your daughters who was within earshot of her brothers approached you and asked about going to the mall. What would your answer be? By this time you might be a little annoyed but if you were a good parent, you would still say “yes.”

Within the next couple of minutes, your two other daughters ask the very same thing. You reply in frustration, “Didn’t you kids believe me when I said ‘yes’ the first time?”

This scenario sounds ridiculous, but this is how many people approach God in prayer. There was one prayer group I briefly attended where this sort of thing happened all the time. After discussing our prayer requests, we each took turns uttering petitions before the Lord. The first person prayed for several of the requests. Then the next person did the same thing, repeating many of the requests the first person already prayed. Then the third person did likewise and then the fourth and so on. 

Many people seem unconvinced God heard their prayers the first time. Some Christians cite the persistent widow in Luke 18 to justify their pestering God with the same need. Keep in mind the widow was dealing with an unjust judge.

On the other hand, the Lord wants to give us the desires of our heart (Psalm 37:4). Whenever we need something from God, the best thing to do is pray and then keep thanking Him until the answer manifests. Jesus said in Mark 11:24, “Therefore I say to you, whatever things you ask when you pray, believe that you receive them, and you will have them.”

Delays in answered prayer are not because God wasn’t listening. Sometimes they are due to demonic opposition. In Daniel chapter 10, the prophet had been fasting and praying for three weeks. Notice what the angel told Daniel beginning with verse 12… 

12 “Do not fear, Daniel, for from the first day that you set your heart to understand, and to humble yourself before your God, your words were heard; and I have come because of your words. 

13 But the prince of the kingdom of Persia withstood me twenty-one days; and behold, Michael, one of the chief princes, came to help me, for I had been left alone there with the kings of Persia.”

There are situations we must be persistent in intercession when it involves other people’s wills. Examples would include the government and a loved one’s salvation. For the latter, it’s better to pray for laborers to cross that family member’s path (Matthew 9:38) instead of habitually praying, “Lord, save So-and-So.” God wants your family members in the kingdom more than you do but needs His people to get the gospel to them.

In some prayer meetings I’ve been to, one person would verbally pray for all our needs. The rest of us would be in agreement. In other groups, each person would pray for another person’s request. That way, everybody took part in praying. All petitions got covered without being mentioned over and over.

Jesus warned us in Matthew 6:7-8 against making “vain repetitions as the heathen do. For they think that they will be heard for their many words. Therefore do not be like them.” So the next time you need something from God, avoid the temptation to keep asking for it again and again. Believe and then receive!

“But let him ask in faith, with no doubting, for he who doubts is like a wave of the sea driven and tossed by the wind.” - James 1:6

Make a Move

As a young Christian, I read many books by Kenneth E. Hagin and his son Kenneth Hagin, Jr. One of the latter was titled “It’s Your Move”, which compares our walk with the Lord to a chess game. When we make a move, then He makes a move. Dad Hagin often said, “It is easier to steer a car when it is moving than when it is parked.” I’ve seen this truth manifest many times during my missionary travels.

Back in 2003, I flew to Berlin, Germany. After staying in a prayer house for nearly three weeks, two women invited the caretaker and me to go on a road trip with them to Nuremberg. I was reluctant to step out until one of the women said she knew a hotel owner that would provide a room for two nights. Upon our arrival in Nuremberg, we attended a church service. The first worship song I heard was based on Romans 8:1-2. I had read those same verses out loud in the car moments before. I also heard a minister say, “God moves with those who move.” That assured me I did the right thing. The next night, I taught on evangelism at this church. God later opened doors for me to minister in other German cities.

Last month, I moved to San Antonio, Texas. A couple that had been missionaries themselves hosted me the first few nights. However, they questioned the way God was leading me. Without having other lodging possibilities, I rented a motel room to fast and pray. A breakthrough developed after I took a bus downtown one day to go for a prayer walk and evangelize. Across the street from The Alamo, I met a woman playing guitar and singing worship songs. While we fellowshipped, this woman told me about the church she attends. I felt led to go there the following Sunday. The pastor asked me to speak for a few minutes. After the service, his assistant offered me a place to stay.

Are you seeking divine direction? Abraham had a promised land set aside for him but didn’t find it until he left his home country. Unless He specifically tells you to wait on Him, the Lord is likely waiting for you to do something. Jesus is the “great Shepherd of the sheep” (Hebrews 13:21) and will let you know if you’re going the right way or need to adjust your steps, but not until you start moving.

“In the same way, faith by itself, if it is not accompanied by action, is dead.” 

- James 2:17 (NIV)

Was Jesus Poor?

While walking around downtown San Antonio last Sunday, I noticed this “homeless Jesus” statue in front of a church. I didn’t examine the accompanying plaque but assumed it was inspired by Matthew 8:20, “…the Son of Man has nowhere to lay His head.” Later, I learned it quoted Matthew 25:40 (ESV), “Assuredly, I say to you, inasmuch as you did it to one of the least of these My brethren, you did it to Me.” The Lord certainly wants us to be compassionate to the less fortunate. That doesn’t mean He wants us living like them.

One thing that repels sinners from Christianity is religious folk promoting the idea that Jesus was poor. A few celebrities have more sense than some church-going people. Pamela Anderson told one interviewer, “I don't know anybody…that would have people gambling for His underwear. That was some fine stuff He wore.” Jesus had to be prosperous because the Roman soldiers who crucified Him gambled for His expensive undergarments. Anderson went on to say, “The poor will follow the rich, the rich will follow the rich, but the rich will never follow the poor.”

Those who preach an impoverished Jesus need to study their Bibles more. Matthew 2:11 says, “And when they had come into the house, they saw the young Child with Mary His mother, and fell down and worshiped Him. And when they had opened their treasures, they presented gifts to Him: gold, frankincense, and myrrh.” Notice this verse mentioned a house. Contrary to the traditional Christmas story, this didn’t happen while Jesus was lying in a manger. The expensive gifts from the wise men were probably used to finance His family’s escape to Egypt.

During His earthly ministry, there were times Jesus and His disciples slept outside while traveling. However, they also had places to stay. John 1:38-39 mentions one of them. Matthew 4:13 talks about Him dwelling in Capernaum. So does Mark 2:1. The New American Standard Bible states, “…He was at home.” Later, four people dug a hole in the roof to let down a paralytic who was then healed. Being a carpenter, Jesus might have gone up to the roof to mend it.

Jesus had people that gave to His ministry. Luke 8:2-3 says, “and certain women who had been healed of evil spirits and infirmities—Mary called Magdalene, out of whom had come seven demons, and Joanna the wife of Chuza, Herod’s steward, and Susanna, and many others who provided for Him from their substance.” The Lord even kept a treasurer on His staff that embezzled from Him. How many pastors would do that today?

The only time Jesus took on earthly poverty was when He went to the cross. 2 Corinthians 8:9 says, “For you know the grace of our Lord Jesus Christ, that though He was rich, yet for your sakes He became poor, that you through His poverty might become rich.”

So when you have opportunities to share the gospel this holiday season, don’t let people feed you the lie that Jesus was poor. Who in their right mind would worship Someone who wants them lacking all the time? The Lord wants us blessed so we can be a blessing to others.

“And my God shall supply all your need according to His riches in glory by Christ Jesus.” 

- Philippians 4:19

My Faith Compels Me to Vote Red

Once again, we are in the midst of an election that is becoming more contentious than in 2016. As previously stated in this blog, I vote for Republican candidates because that party’s platform is more in line with Judeo-Christian values. Nevertheless, I have a few friends and relatives who vote for Democrats. I won’t belittle their convictions but question how professing believers can support policies that go against God’s word.

There’s a meme circulating online by progressive Christians titled “My Faith Compels Me to Vote Blue.” Here’s my response to all their listed reasons…

“Refugees and immigrants should be fully welcomed.” I’m okay with foreigners moving to America if they do so legally and assimilate as law-abiding citizens. I don’t agree with letting just anyone cross our borders. Would you welcome a stranger into your home without knowing his intentions? What if that stranger wanted to rob you or cause harm to your family?

“All people deserve access to affordable healthcare.” I agree medical costs could be less expensive. However, I believe in divine healing and see a doctor only when necessary. 2 Chronicles 16:12 says, “And in the thirty-ninth year of his reign, Asa became diseased in his feet, and his malady was severe; yet in his disease he did not seek the Lord, but the physicians.”

“Women should have autonomy over their own bodies.” What about the bodies of unborn children inside pregnant women? Shouldn’t they have a right to live? Instead of encouraging abortion, those babies can live by promoting adoption as an alternative.

“Every race and gender and orientation deserves respect.” The Bible forbids homosexuality and transvestism. Christians can share the love of Jesus with those practicing immoral lifestyles without condoning them. Romans 1:32 warns, “…who, knowing the righteous judgment of God, that those who practice such things are deserving of death, not only do the same but also approve of those who practice them.”

“Mass incarceration and the death penalty are not pro-life.” Our prison system could use some improvements. However, the Bible calls for capital punishment upon those who commit murder. Genesis 9:6 says, “Whoever sheds man’s blood, by man his blood shall be shed; For in the image of God He made man.” It’s contradictory for pro-choice advocates to say a woman can murder her innocent unborn child but then claim the death penalty is wrong.

“The planet and atmosphere are our responsibility to care for.” I agree man should be good stewards of the earth’s resources. However, Christians should be more concerned with people’s eternal destinies. The only thing we can take to heaven with us is souls. God will someday renovate this world with fire. (see 2 Peter 3:10)

“All faith traditions are equally valid.” Jesus said in John 14:6, “I am the way, the truth, and the life. No one comes to the Father except through Me.” Christians shouldn’t be preaching doctrines that discourage people from getting born again. Jesus told the Pharisees in Matthew 15:6, “Thus you have made the commandment of God of no effect by your tradition.”

“Poverty and hunger are unacceptable.” When doing street ministry, I go out of my way to offer food and then the gospel to homeless people. Sadly, some individuals are poor and hungry because they choose to be. 2 Thessalonians 3:10 commands, "If anyone will not work, neither shall he eat.” Christians shouldn’t endorse government programs that promote welfare over employment.

“Black lives matter.” So do the lives of Latinos, Asians, Native Americans, and Caucasians. Acts 17:26 says, “And He has made from one blood every nation of men to dwell on all the face of the earth…”

“God is not a straight, white republican man.” I happen to be one. Thankfully, my God is willing to forgive everyone regardless of their race or political beliefs. “For whoever calls on the name of the Lord shall be saved.” (Romans 10:13)

A Facebook friend found the “Vote Blue” meme posted on a page honoring Jimmy Carter. The 39th President of the United States professed faith in Jesus and even taught a Sunday school class. Ever since he left the White House four decades ago, the Democratic party has radically changed. Their increasingly socialistic policies go against what the founding fathers intended for this country. References to God have been removed from their party platform. 

My faith compels me to vote red. 

“I call heaven and earth as witnesses today against you, that I have set before you life and death, blessing and cursing; therefore choose life, that both you and your descendants may live” - Deuteronomy 30:19

Casting Out Devils

Mention the Great Commission and most Christians only think of “preaching the gospel to every creature.” Yet Jesus gave other commandments in the sixteenth chapter of Mark. One of which in verse 17 is to cast out devils. That commandment must be important. It is listed before speaking in tongues and laying hands on the sick.

Many churches in Western nations don’t do deliverance ministry at all. Some ministers believe Christians cannot have a demon. I can testify that this is not true. Over the years. I’ve witnessed numerous devils cast out of God’s people. I’ve done my share of exorcisms.

During the mid-1990s, I became close friends with “Stacy” (not her real name), a middle-aged woman often placed on my team during our church’s evangelism outreaches. Despite her faithfulness in sharing the gospel, Stacy was often oppressed. One particular afternoon while I prayed for Stacy, these words came out of her mouth: “You can’t have her! You can’t have her!” I recognized this as Satan speaking through my friend and commanded him to come out in Jesus’ name. Stacy fell over and was motionless on the floor for several minutes.

Sadly, my friend didn’t stay delivered as she continued giving place to the devil through bitterness. One night after an outreach, Stacy burst into the church yelling accusations against the evangelism pastor. She had to be forcibly removed from the premises. The last time I heard from Stacy was when a mutual friend handed me a note from her laced with profanity.  

Christians can become “repossessed” by being disobedient to God’s word. After healing the man by the pool called Bethesda, Jesus told him in John 5:14, “See, you have been made well.  Sin no more, lest a worse thing come upon you.”  Jesus also warned in Matthew 12…

43 “When an unclean spirit goes out of a man, he goes through dry places, seeking rest, and finds none. 

44 Then he says, ‘I will return to my house from which I came.’ And when he comes, he finds it empty, swept, and put in order. 

45 Then he goes and takes with him seven other spirits more wicked than himself, and they enter and dwell there; and the last state of that man is worse than the first. So shall it also be with this wicked generation.”

Every human is full of something. One must feed on God’s word to stay strong spiritually especially after receiving deliverance. Otherwise, that leaves room for the devil to get in. 

Last Sunday, my friend Gretchen and I ministered to a woman who “lost her faith” due to terrible things that happened to her and her eight children. Mercedes insisted the devil has more power than God. Gretchen and I spent about twenty minutes testifying how God will provide and protect those who put their trust in Him. Mercedes’ countenance changed after she prayed to recommit her life to the Lord.

I like what Jim Kaseman says: “If you talk more about what the devil is doing than what God is doing, then you are a devil worshipper.” We don’t need to be demon hunters looking for demons behind every doorknob. But when they manifest, then we must be ready to deal with them.

 “You are of God, little children, and have overcome them, because He who is in you is greater than he who is in the world.” - 1 John 4:4

I Still Believe - A Review

With the coronavirus lockdown in effect, many of us remained at home this past Easter weekend. The night before Resurrection Sunday, a friend I was staying with recommended seeing a new movie he had downloaded. I watched it the next morning.

“I Still Believe” is about Christian rock musician Jeremy Camp. The movie begins with Jeremy leaving his hometown in Indiana to attend college in California. There he meets a woman named Melissa. Not long after the two get engaged, Melissa discovered she has cancer. Jeremy temporarily moved in with her parents to care for his fiancé who he later married. Melissa has successful surgery but the cancer came back. During another hospital stay, it appeared she was supernaturally healed since her pain went away. Sadly while Jeremy went to inform the doctors, Melissa suddenly died. After a time of mourning, Jeremy was inspired by a note written by his late wife to continue making music. He would go on to a successful career.

While it’s God’s best for His people to live a long life of divine health, the reality is that doesn’t always happen. We live in a fallen world where Satan comes to steal, kill, and destroy (John 10:10). “I Still Believe” reminded me of having a significant other that died at a young age. During the late 1990s, I became close friends with a woman who ended up spending time in a psychiatric hospital. Despite my praying for her, Jolene died of hardening of the arteries. She was only 38 years old.

“I Still Believe” demonstrates that true love involves sacrifices and sometimes suffering. Even when our prayers appear to go unanswered, God is still on the throne and has a good plan for our lives. Because movie theaters are currently closed, “I Still Believe” is available online from various sources. I recommended seeing this movie.

“For I know the thoughts that I think toward you, says the Lord, thoughts of peace and not of evil, to give you a future and a hope.” - Jeremiah 29:11

A Ride on the Trump Train

Recently I got to see the President of the United States in person for the first time. My friend John and I attended the Evangelicals for Trump rally at King Jesus church in Miami, Florida. A few days before I kept perceiving the Lord wanted me to go to Miami but didn’t know why. Then shortly after Christmas, John called me from his home in the Washington, DC area. He asked about staying with me at the missionary house I’ve been living in Tampa. I had goosebumps when John mentioned going to Miami after that. Soon I learned Donald Trump was having a rally there on January 3rd.

Originally I thought of riding with John without going to the rally. I had it on my heart to evangelize on the streets of Miami. John attended previous Trump rallies where people stood in line for hours with no guarantee they would get inside. But on our way through Southern Florida, I felt more of a stirring to be at the rally. During pit stops at McDonald’s I got to lead three people to the Lord (and later had a fourth at 7/11 on the way home).

We arrived at the church around 10:45 a.m. To our surprise, the line wasn’t as long as John and I expected. Worship music playing on an outside sound system helped maintain a godly atmosphere and probably kept extra protesters away. There was one man I encountered holding signs listing the Ten Commandments and his claim that Trump is not a Christian. I felt led to tell him, “He who is without sin cast the first stone.”

John and I fellowshipped with people in line around us. One of them named Jose was a member of the church. He told us they would start letting people in at 2:00 p.m. The line began moving earlier than that. Of course, getting inside took awhile since Secret Service agents had us empty our pockets and walk through metal detectors. John and I eventually got seats in the twelfth row. I thought this was symbolic since the number 12 in Scripture refers to government (like the twelve tribes of Israel).

Around 3:30 a worship band played three songs. The first of which was appropriately titled “Freedom.” Then the same recorded music heard outside played again for several minutes. Meanwhile, many well-known Christian leaders and musicians showed up and took seats in front of us. Among those we recognized were Robert Jeffress, John Hagee, Rod Parsley, Rodney Howard-Browne, Michael Tait, Jonathan Cain and Stephen Strang from Charisma magazine.

Sometime after 4:00, Pastor Guillermo Maldonado opened the ceremony with an anointed prayer. Tony Perkins from the Family Research Council followed with a few remarks. Then Paula White-Cain emerged to introduce the president. The announced start time was 5:00 but Donald Trump appeared 15 minutes early. Paula invited seven other people onstage to join her in surrounding Trump as they prayed for him. Jentezen Franklin led the prayer followed by Maldonado.

During a speech that lasted over an hour, the President addressed various political issues but talked at length about his support for Israel and maintaining religious freedom. Before closing, Trump invited two pairs of women to speak from the podium. The first two were students at Fresno State University where they encountered persecution for promoting pro-life ideas. Among the other two was an African-American woman that nearly stole the show. Angel talked about the president assisting her in helping those devastated by a hurricane that struck the Florida panhandle. This woman also chastised the media’s skewed reporting of the president while they were filming several feet away.

Aside from perhaps Lee Greenwood’s “God Bless the USA” (which has become an anthem for patriotic Americans), the only secular song heard throughout this event was The Rolling Stones’ “You Can’t Always Get What You Want.” This continues to be Trump’s play-out tune. Robert Jeffress ended the rally with a closing prayer.

Despite the recent impeachment by the House of Representatives (which likely won’t get past the Republican-controlled Senate), it was encouraging to see Christians of different races and denominations unified to support a president who cares for the welfare of this country. Critics may think Trump’s supporters have blind allegiance to him. On the contrary. A few people wore T-shirts that simply stated our beliefs as American Christians: “Jesus is my Savior. Trump is my President.”

“Honor all people. Love the brotherhood. Fear God. Honor the king.” - 1 Peter 2:17

Redefining the Prosperity Gospel

Recently a video went viral of evangelist Benny Hinn talking about how he’s changing his receiving offerings. He stated, “When they invite me to telethons I think they will not like me anymore...if I hear one more time, break the back of debt with $1,000, I’m gonna rebuke them. I think that’s buying the gospel. That’s buying the blessing. That’s grieving the Holy Spirit.” 

It’s encouraging to see Benny Hinn making these adjustments. I’ve attended a few of his meetings and strongly perceived God’s presence there. However, I asked to have my name removed from Benny’s mailing list because of receiving too many fundraising letters. I resist giving to ministers who apply pressure or use questionable gimmicks to receive money from me. We are not to handle the word of God deceitfully (2 Corinthians 4:2) and for personal gain (2 Peter 3:16).

Some have suggested Benny is reacting to a book written by his nephew. Costi Hinn’s “God, Greed, and the (Prosperity) Gospel” talks about how his family supposedly exploited millions around the world by trading miracles for money. While glancing at a sample of his book on Amazon, I noticed Costi listed other books he recommends reading. Many of them are by John MacArthur, an outspoken cessationist who believes the gifts of the Holy Spirit stopped after the original apostles died. I won’t read materials scoffing at God doing supernatural things today.

Critics have also insisted Benny Hinn should return money to his donors. They compare that to what Zacchaeus did in Luke 19:8. There’s a big difference between a tax collector intimidating taxpayers and a minister receiving free will offerings. Benny’s revenue has taken the gospel to the nations and financed mission projects. His website states, “This ministry continues to reach out to thousands of children each day through hospital care, housing, food, clothing, medical supplies, and educational materials.”

If someone asks if I believe in the prosperity gospel, that depends on how it’s defined. Certainly, I don’t believe one must pay money to be saved. Nor do I believe in a poverty gospel. Psalm 35:27 says, “Let the Lord be magnified, who has pleasure in the prosperity of His servant.” Some describe the prosperity gospel as the promise of one obtaining wealth through positive confessions plus giving tithes and offerings. Many Scriptures support these concepts. However, other factors can affect one’s financial status. (For additional study on this subject, please read my article “Wealth in the Word.”)

The gospel is free but it takes money to get the message out whether it’s through passing out Bibles and tracts on the streets or preaching to millions through the media and evangelistic crusades. Many so-called prosperity preachers are generous givers. Those that oversee megachurches often renounce their salaries since they receive income from other sources. I know one pastor whose church offers this challenge: “If you tithe for six months and you don’t see God’s response to His promise, we will refund 100% of your tithe.”

God desires His people to prosper so they can fulfill His plans and purposes on the earth. He doesn’t mind us having things as long as the things don’t have us. Jesus said in John 10:10, “I have come that they may have life, and that they may have it more abundantly.” Therefore, I choose to believe in a prosperity gospel.

“Beloved, I pray that you may prosper in all things and be in health, just as your soul prospers.” - 3 John 2

Pearls Before Swine

While I’m evangelizing, the Lord will often direct me to avoid certain individuals. Some Christians think this contradicts Jesus’ command to “Go into all the world and preach the gospel to every creature.” (Mark 16:15) Salvation is available to those who want it. Sadly, not everyone values the things of God.

One day while doing street ministry in Richmond, Virginia, I walked up to what appeared to be a Black Muslim. I perceived the Lord didn't want me talking to this man but witnessed to him anyway. He wasted my time rambling about what he thought the Bible says. I walked away since he wouldn’t let me respond to his misguided claims. 

Then last month, I found out comedian Kip Addota had died. I posted a link to an article about that on Dr. Demento’s Facebook page since Kip’s recordings are often played on Dr. D’s radio show. My post included the comment, “I hope Kip knew the Lord.” That immediately triggered some mocking messages. I felt led to delete my post. Then I remembered what Jesus said in Matthew 7:6, “Do not give what is holy to the dogs; nor cast your pearls before swine, lest they trample them under their feet, and turn and tear you in pieces.” 

A footnote in the Amplified Bible’s rendering of Matthew 7:6 points out “dogs” and “pigs” represent those who despise sacred things. Jesus also said in Matthew 15:26, “It is not good to take the children’s bread and throw it to the little dogs.” There have been other times when I tried describing spiritual things to people who didn’t appreciate them. They either weren’t saved or immature in the faith.

Amos 5:13 says, “Therefore the prudent keep silent at that time, for it is an evil time.” While our labor in the Lord is not in vain (1 Corinthians 15:58), there are times it’s best not to say anything to people who will bring nothing but persecution. It’s more fruitful reaching out to those who recognize the value of what’s being offered to them.

“Again, the kingdom of heaven is like a merchant seeking beautiful pearls, who, when he had found one pearl of great price, went and sold all that he had and bought it.” - Matthew 13:45-46

An Open Letter to Julie Brown

Dear Julie,

I happened to log on your Facebook page a few days ago and noticed your post: “Why are Christians condemning Pete Buttegieg [sic] for being gay? Wasn’t Christ loving and kind and accepting of everyone?” I decided to write a response even though it might trigger a flood of negative comments from fans of yours who won’t respect my beliefs. I’m aware you have a significant following from the LGBTQ community. Therefore, I felt the best approach is to post this letter in my blog and then send you a link to that.

First, let me tell you a little bit about myself. I’m an evangelist who previously sought a secular music career. Like yourself, I’ve had songs aired on the Dr. Demento radio show. I enjoyed many of your recordings and saw the movie “Earth Girls Are Easy” based on your song of the same name. I consider you a talented and attractive performer (I’ve always liked redheads). ;)

You asked why Christians are “condemning” Pete Buttigieg for being gay. I don’t condemn Pete as a person. Jesus died for him as well as everyone else. What Bible-believing Christians don’t agree with are alternative lifestyles that go against Scripture. Personally, I know individuals who overcame same-sex attraction and transgenderism with God’s help. Therefore, I cannot accept the idea that homosexuals and transsexuals are born that way.

What I find more troubling is God-fearing business people being threatened with legal action if they won’t participate in events celebrating these lifestyles. One Christian baker who already won a Supreme Court case supporting his decision not to make a same-sex wedding cake was recently sued again for not making a cake acknowledging a gender transition. A homosexual president would likely condone more persecution like this.

You also asked, “Wasn’t Christ loving and kind and accepting of everyone?” The answer to that question is “no.” Jesus said in Matthew 7:21-23, “Not everyone who says to Me, ‘Lord, Lord,’ shall enter the kingdom of heaven, but he who does the will of My Father in heaven. Many will say to Me in that day, ‘Lord, Lord, have we not prophesied in Your name, cast out demons in Your name, and done many wonders in Your name?’ And then I will declare to them, ‘I never knew you; depart from Me, you who practice lawlessness!’” Throughout the gospels, Jesus rebuked the Pharisees for their pride and religious hypocrisy.

Jesus did reach out to prostitutes, tax collectors, and other sinners. It wasn’t for the purpose of affirming their sin but to offer redemption. He told one woman caught in adultery, “Neither do I condemn you; go and sin no more.” (John 8:11) The Lord is saying the same thing today to anyone willing to repent of sexual immorality. 

Hopefully, I’m not coming across as self-righteous. None of us are perfect and deserve to go to heaven. Even if you haven’t had a Christian upbringing, perhaps you’re familiar with John 3:16, “For God so loved the world that He gave His only begotten Son, that whoever believes in Him should not perish but have everlasting life.” Everyone has the opportunity to receive the free gift of salvation. My prayer is that you choose to do so. 

Sincerely, 

Todd R. Post

(The artist formerly known as Krypton)

“For God did not send His Son into the world to condemn the world, but that the world through Him might be saved. He who believes in Him is not condemned; but he who does not believe is condemned already, because he has not believed in the name of the only begotten Son of God.” - John 3:17-18