Answers

Q:

Recently I've been watching some reruns of your crusades, and I'm thankful for your clear preaching. But why do you always ask people to come forward at the end of your messages? Can't people put their faith in Christ wherever they are, not just in a stadium?


A:

Yes, God certainly can speak to people anywhere, and people can respond to Christ anywhere. The

important thing isn’t the place, but the sincerity of their response to Christ’s call to believe in Him and follow Him.

In fact, over the years we’ve received countless letters from men and women who responded to the Gospel in the privacy of their homes, or in a hotel, or even while briefly watching a telecast sitting in a bar. God is able to break through the defenses of even the most hardened heart, because there is power in His Word. I am often reminded of the Bible’s words in Hebrews 4:12: “For the word of God is living and active. Sharper than any double-edged sword, it penetrates even to dividing soul and spirit….”

At the same time, whenever Jesus called someone to follow Him, He did so publicly. When we take a public stand for Christ, we are making a clear break with our past and are declaring our commitment to follow Him. Jesus said, “I tell you, whoever acknowledges me before men, the Son of Man will also acknowledge him before the angels of God” (Luke 12:8).

The real question, however, is this: Have you committed your life to Jesus Christ — clearly and openly? Christ died for you openly. Now live for Him openly — at work, at home, at church, everywhere. May you be able to say, “I am not ashamed, because I know whom I have believed” (2 Timothy 1:12).