First Baptist Church of Stratford



January 13, 2012

Grace and Peace to you from God the Father of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ!

Conversation with a 13-year old

One of my Bible study students asked me, “How do you know heaven is real?” I replied, “How do you know the wind is real?” He looked at me and explained how he could feel the wind and see the leaves blowing. I asked him if he could see the wind. He answered, “No.” I then explained to him how I can feel God’s presence in my life and see him working things out for me. Yet, I can’t see him. Furthermore, I asked him if he believes Jesus exists. He responded, “Yes.” My next question was, “Do you believe Jesus tells the truth?” Again, he responded, “Yes!” I replied, “Therefore, since Jesus tells the truth, He assures us that heaven is real.”



Conversation with 17-year old

“Do you believe heaven is real?” he asked. I thought briefly and responded, “Yes!” Just because I don’t see heaven doesn’t mean it isn’t real. I never saw my great grandfather; yet, there is no doubt in my mind that he was real!



The Burden of Proof is on God

We in EE are so grateful that the burden of proof falls on God and not us! We don’t have to prove that heaven is real. We just have to obey God (Matthew 28:19-20) and tell others that God is real and He desires a personal, abiding relationship with them! The real questions are: What if heaven is real? What are you doing to make certain you get there? Why should God let you in? These are the questions that we all should be pondering!



Racing again the Clock

Jesus spoke about those who did not know God. He explained that they were dead (Matthew 8:22). Jesus commanded us to go into the world and preach the gospel. People are dying younger and younger. We are literally racing against the clock. We need more Christians to tell before more people face hell!



Our witnessing results

Last semester God showed his power through us. We made approximately 50 attempts to reach the lost. We presented the gospel to 12: 4 accepted Christ, 2 received assurance, 3 were already saved and 3 made no decision. And, most importantly, 3 of them joined our fellowship!



Conclusion

Is heaven real? Jesus said, “And if I go and prepare a place for you, I will come back and take you to be with me that you also may be where I am.” (John 14:2-3)

Yes, heaven is real and God wants everyone to make it his/her home.

Please join us in preparing ourselves to share the good news of Jesus Christ! Our next session starts January 27, 2012 at 5:30 p.m. at 40 Johnson Annex. As always please keep us and our Pastor in your prayers!

Please contact me (203) 335-0549 or any Disciple of the EE Ministry for additional information.

Yours in Christ,

Deacon La-Nelle Harris

Local EE Administrator