New Believer 4

http://developingoutreach.blogspot.com/


Addison Roberts
CRL 233 Developing Outreach and Discipleship Programs
Instructor Gerry Stoltzfoos

Phil
Phil's journey to faith was a long one. He had survived being shot, stabbed, hit by cars and a serious car accident and he found himself in jail wondering if this was really the way his life had turned out. He wondered if he should just accept it or if he has a purpose and a chance to change his life. He got a letter from his finance and then they got back together with her and had three boys. He took that as a sign that God was giving him a second chance. He decided to follow God so that he could be a great father and husband and break the cycle of abuse that his father had started . He is believing that he can break it forever and I am praying that his beliefs are realized.

For Phil, the best parts of being a Christian are the freedom from bondage he has enjoyed and the fact he doesn't have to worry about what tomorrow will bring. The hardest parts for Phil are submission to the rules of the Freedom House and to a leader that is younger than he is. Phil has been helped on his journey by the guys at the house and the people at the church. They have led him by example, accepted him for who he is and made an honest effort to build a relationship with him. Also, the testimonies of the men in the house have helped encourage him as he seeks his own freedom.

Phil wouldn't give anyone who is like he used to be any advice. He would just tell them about what building a relationship with God has done in his life. He would also tell them what they need to do to build a relationship with God. After that, it is their choice as to weather or not they want to change.