This morning I encountered a man who I have known for a considerable amount of time. I don't particularly enjoy spending time with him because his language can be filthy and his behavior fluctuates from mild mannered to lunatic. For at least 15 minutes I listened to him tell me about his life and how ruff it has been lately. Because I know that he has a temper, I didn't mind listening to him. I knew that I was going to share with him so I was nervous. Listening to him gave me time to calm down and to figure out how I was going to create a spiritual conversation. I had decided in my mind that as soon as he finished talking I was going to change the subject and ask if he had any spiritual beliefs. My plan was quickly scrapped when he suddenly commented that he once produced a Christian album while he was in Nashville. Recognizing that as a clear path to the gospel I asked, "Are you a Christian?" "Yes, saved by grace alone. I am a Methodist. I am very methodical like John Wesley" he replied. I was surprised to hear his answer because I have seen very little fruit in his life. Like a doctor checking the health of one of his patients I ask, "Do you read your Bible?" He replied, "Yes. I actually started reading it a few weeks ago." That was a good sign. He mentioned that he had read the book of John last night, so I thought that it was appropriate to bring up what Jesus says to Nicodemus, "Unless one is born again, he cannot see the kingdom of God." This man expressed multiple issues that he has with the church and his upbringing, but I trust that this verse and the many others that I shared with him will give him something to think about.
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