Tuesday, September 15, 2009

Not one day passes that we don't receive feedback from those who listen to or view our sermons either by web or television. Oftentimes the notes are kind and encouraging, thanking us for preaching the Word with truth and clarity. Other replies are filled with angst, written by those who have been irritated by the Gospel message. Some simply write to argue, some to sincerely question because they're seeking. We welcome them all.

We recently received a response from a listener who does not claim to believe in God. This individual adamantly expressed his view that God is not the Creator of all that is; that idea is completely false in his mind. Instead, their faith rests in the fact that our billions of stars and planets 'simply happened.'

Our very own Al Roever stepped forward to respond. I figured that this man of God, who once lived life as an atheist, might enjoy sharing his thoughts with this person. He gave a great reply and so I'll share it here:
 "It's interesting that you would choose "the center of the universe" as your "creator" when science shows conclusively that there is no "center of the universe." It is definitely hard to understand given the "Big Bang" theory, but somehow the universe has no center - check it out for yourself. However, it is certain that the universe DID have a beginning. Out of no space and no time came both space and time. It is absolutely counterintuitive and foreign to our experiences that an event can happen without a cause. It is especially difficult to figure out how non- matter, non-energy, non-time and non-intelligence could bring about matter, energy, time and intelligence. The argument that the universe is eternal has major problems with the laws of physics and the evidence for the "Big Bang."

I have made a personal commitment to the premise: In the beginning, God! It has certainly proved to be more satisfying than: In the beginning, nothing. Especially since I have had a personal relationship with God for over forty years."

This is a great answer that blends science with personal experience. I remember a quote from my dear friend, Leonard Ravenhill, who beautifully stated, "The man that is intimate with God, will never be intimidated by man!" There's also a widely circulated quote that says basically, "The man with an experience is never at the mercy of a man with only an argument."

Let me encourage you to live prepared to give an answer for what you believe as in 1 Peter 3:15 - "But in your hearts set apart Christ as Lord. Always be prepared to give an answer to everyone who asks you to give the reason for the hope that you have. But do this with gentleness and respect,"

Each day brings fresh opportunity to let your light so shine before men so as to bring glory to the Lord. I pray that you be so full of His love and presence that you overflow to those around you.