Pokemon Go and Christians part 2

Navigating the Spiritual Landscape of Pop Culture: My Thoughts on Pokémon and Faith

Hey everyone, Conrad here from ConradRocks.Net, and welcome back! It’s always great to connect with you all and lift up the name of Jesus. Today, I want to dive into a topic that’s been on my mind, sparked by a recent conversation I had with Bob Strachan from Scotland Baptist. We talked about something that took the world by storm a while back and still lingers in our cultural consciousness: Pokémon.

You know, when Pokémon Go first exploded, it felt like the whole planet was captivated, wandering around with their phones, trying to "catch 'em all." As a Christian, and someone who tries to view everything through a spiritual lens, I couldn't help but wonder: What does this phenomenon mean for us? How does it intersect with our faith and our walk with Jesus? This led to a fascinating two-part interview with Bob, and today, I want to share some of my reflections and expand on our discussion.

The Imaginary and the Real: Discerning Spiritual Implications

One of the key questions that arose in our conversation was whether we were making a leap from something imaginary to something potentially harmful on a spiritual level. Are these just harmless characters in a game, or could there be deeper implications? Bob wisely pointed out that just because these creatures aren’t named after demons doesn’t automatically make them good or neutral.

This got me thinking about the concept of "vain imaginations" mentioned in the Bible. If we’re constantly engaging with something that, at its core, is a fantasy, could it be subtly shaping our thoughts and values in ways that pull us away from the knowledge of God? The Apostle Paul, in 2 Corinthians 10:5 (KJV), urges us to cast down "imaginations, and every high thing that exalteth itself against the knowledge of God, and bringing into captivity every thought to the obedience of Christ." This verse really resonates here. It's not just about blatant evil; sometimes, it's the seemingly innocent things that can capture our minds and hearts.

Bob brought up some specific Pokémon names, like Abra, Kadabra, and Alakazam, noting their connections to the occult, specifically "abracadabra," a term with roots in witchcraft and used by figures like Aleister Crowley. While I hadn't personally delved into the etymology of every Pokémon name, hearing this raised a red flag for me. As believers, we are called to be discerning. 1 Thessalonians 5:22 (KJV) tells us to "Abstain from all appearance of evil." If something even hints at or borrows from the occult, shouldn't we approach it with caution?

Serving Two Masters: Pokémon and the Pursuit of God

Our conversation also touched on the idea of serving two masters, a powerful teaching from Jesus in Matthew 6:24 (KJV): "No man can serve two masters: for either he will hate the one, and love the other; or else he will hold to the one, and despise the other. Ye cannot serve God and mammon." While "mammon" is often interpreted as wealth, Bob astutely connected it to the Pokémon world. The more you play, the more you collect, the more powerful you become within the game. It’s a system built on acquisition and mastery.

But Jesus Himself told us not to be called masters, for we have one Master, who is Christ (Matthew 23:10, KJV). When we pour our time and energy into becoming a "Pokémon Master," are we inadvertently shifting our focus and devotion away from our true Master? It’s a challenging question, and one that requires honest self-reflection. Where do our priorities lie? What consumes our thoughts and our time?

The Creation Narrative vs. Pokémon Evolution: A Foundational Conflict

The origin story within the Pokémon universe also presents a stark contrast to the biblical account of creation. The idea of Arceus being born from an egg in a void and then creating other beings with control over time and space directly contradicts the Genesis account of God creating the heavens and the earth in six days. This isn't just a minor detail; it strikes at the very foundation of our understanding of who God is and how the universe came to be.

As Christians, we believe in a Creator God who spoke the world into existence (Psalm 33:9, KJV). The concept of evolution within the Pokémon narrative, where creatures evolve into more powerful forms, also stands in opposition to the biblical understanding that this world is groaning under the weight of sin and decay (Romans 8:22, KJV), not progressively getting better on its own. My own personal conviction aligns with the prophetic word that speaks of a fallen creation awaiting its ultimate redemption through Jesus.

It's crucial that we train up our children in the way they should go (Proverbs 22:6, KJV). If their minds are constantly being filled with the Pokémon universe and its creation myths, are we adequately grounding them in the truth of God's Word? As Bob rightly pointed out, if a child is given a choice between reading the Bible and playing Pokémon, the allure of the game often wins out. This highlights the importance of intentionally and diligently teaching our children the Holy Scriptures from a young age, as Paul instructed Timothy (2 Timothy 3:15, KJV).

The Subtle Snares of the Enemy: Bondage and Double-Mindedness

Our discussion then moved into the realm of spiritual warfare. Bob highlighted how an intense focus on something like Pokémon can lead to a form of bondage, where a person feels compelled to engage with it, even to the detriment of other responsibilities and their relationship with God. This reminded me of the power of addiction, whether it’s to substances, entertainment, or anything else that takes hold of our hearts and minds.

The Bible speaks of the spirit of bondage (Romans 8:15, KJV), and it contrasts this with the spirit of adoption we receive through Christ, which allows us to call God "Abba, Father." When we find ourselves constantly drawn back to something, feeling an almost irresistible urge, we need to ask ourselves: Is this leading me closer to God or further away? Is it fostering freedom or bondage?

Furthermore, Bob touched on the concept of a double-minded man being unstable in all his ways (James 1:8, KJV). If part of our mind is consumed with the world of Pokémon and another part is trying to follow God, we will inevitably experience internal conflict and instability. Our hearts need to be fully devoted to God (Psalm 86:11, KJV).

The Altered States of Consciousness and Media Influence: A Modern-Day Challenge

One of the more eye-opening parts of our conversation was when Bob discussed how engaging with screens, like phones while playing Pokémon Go or watching television, can induce altered states of consciousness, specifically the alpha brainwave state. This research, he mentioned, dates back to the 1960s. In this state, our critical thinking can be diminished, making us more susceptible to suggestions and programming.

Think about the implications of this in the context of Pokémon Go. People walking around, engrossed in their phones, are not necessarily engaging in critical thought. They are following the prompts of the game. Bob drew a compelling analogy with the guards at Buckingham Palace representing our conscious minds. When our conscious mind is "distracted" or in an altered state, things can slip into our subconscious more easily, potentially shaping our desires and behaviors.

This also connects to the influence of media in general. Bob astutely pointed out the correlation between the rise of Hollywood and the decline in teachings on spiritual warfare in churches. It's as if the enemy has subtly shifted tactics, using entertainment and media to shape worldviews and distract people from the reality of spiritual battles. As Paul wrote in 2 Corinthians 2:11 (KJV), "Lest Satan should get an advantage of us: for we are not ignorant of his devices." However, sadly, many believers today seem unaware of these subtle yet powerful influences.

The Seared Conscience and the Importance of Truth

Bob then referenced 1 Timothy 4:1-2 (KJV): "Now the spirit speaketh expressly, that in the latter times some shall depart from the faith, giving heed to seducing spirits, and doctrines of devils; Speaking lies in hypocrisy; having their conscience seared with a hot iron." This scripture powerfully illustrates what can happen when we repeatedly ignore or rationalize things that are contrary to God's Word. Our consciences can become desensitized, making it harder to discern right from wrong.

When someone raises concerns about the spiritual implications of something like Pokémon, the reaction can sometimes be dismissive or even hostile. People may argue, "It's just a game!" or "You're taking it too seriously!" But as believers, our standard for truth isn't based on popular opinion or cultural trends; it's based on the unchanging Word of God. Jesus said in John 8:32 (KJV), "And ye shall know the truth, and the truth shall make you free." Knowing and adhering to the truth is essential for our spiritual well-being and discernment.

Personal Experiences and the Reality of Spiritual Influence

Bob shared a powerful personal anecdote about a child who was deeply involved in Pokémon and had a strong negative reaction when the parents decided to get rid of the associated items. He recounted an instance where a Pikachu toy seemed to manifest a demonic presence when it was being burned. While some may find this hard to believe, it underscores the potential for spiritual forces to attach themselves to seemingly innocuous things, especially when there is an unhealthy obsession involved.

These kinds of experiences remind us that the spiritual realm is real, even if we don't always see it with our physical eyes. Ephesians 6:12 (KJV) reminds us, "For we wrestle not against flesh and blood, but against principalities, against powers, against the rulers of the darkness of this world, against spiritual wickedness in high places." We need to be aware of these forces and how they might try to influence our lives and the lives of our loved ones.

Redeeming the Time: Prioritizing the Kingdom of God

Ultimately, our conversation circled back to the importance of redeeming the time, as Paul urged in Ephesians 5:15-16 (KJV): "See then that ye walk circumspectly, not as fools, but as wise, Redeeming the time, because the days are evil." How much time are we spending on things that have no eternal value? How much time are we investing in our relationship with God, in studying His Word, and in sharing the Gospel with others?

The story of someone quitting their job to play Pokémon full-time, which Bob mentioned, is a stark example of how something can grip a person's life and distort their priorities. As citizens of a heavenly country (Hebrews 11:16, KJV), our focus should be on things above (Colossians 3:2, KJV), on the eternal rather than the temporal.

Conclusion: A Call to Discernment and Action

So, what are my final thoughts on Pokémon and its place in the life of a Christian? While the game itself might seem like harmless fun on the surface, I believe we need to approach it with discernment, considering its underlying themes, its potential for distraction and even obsession, and its stark contrast with biblical truths.

This isn't about condemning anyone who has played or enjoyed Pokémon. It's about urging all of us to be mindful of what we allow to occupy our minds and hearts. Are we prioritizing our relationship with Jesus above all else? Are we diligently teaching our children the Word of God? Are we being aware of the subtle ways the enemy might try to distract us and lead us astray?

My encouragement to you today is to take these thoughts to prayer. Seek God's wisdom and guidance in all things. Be willing to examine your own heart and priorities. And let us all strive to be citizens of that heavenly country, living lives that reflect the love and truth of Jesus to a world that desperately needs Him.

I'd love to hear your thoughts on this. Feel free to leave a comment below and share your perspective. And if you've found this discussion thought-provoking, please consider subscribing to my newsletter and following me on social media for more content like this. Let's continue to grow in our faith together, always seeking to dig deeper and go higher in our walk with the Lord!

Stop Chasing Pokemons, Start Chasing Jesus: A Christian Perspective on the Pokemon Go Epidemic Part 1

Stop Chasing Pokemons, Start Chasing Jesus: A Christian Perspective on the Pokemon Go Epidemic

Today, we're diving into a topic that took the world by storm a few years back – the Pokemon Go phenomenon – and examining it through a Christian lens. Some of you might remember a podcast I did with Pastor Bob Strachan from Scotland Baptist, where we discussed the subtle yet pervasive influences of paganism in Christianity. If you haven't had a listen, I highly recommend you dig into the archives here on the site. It was an eye-opening conversation, touching on some truly spiritual matters.

The Pokemon Go Craze: A Look Back

Then came Pokemon Go. Suddenly, it seemed like the entire planet was glued to their smartphones, wandering around in search of these digital creatures. Remember that? It was quite a spectacle! People were out in droves, exploring their neighborhoods in a way they hadn't before, all in the pursuit of catching 'em all.

I recently had the privilege of reconnecting with Pastor Bob Strachan to get his prophetic insights on this whole Pokemon Go situation. Our conversation, which I’m thrilled to share with you today in blog post form, really shed light on some crucial aspects that Christians should consider. Pastor Bob, joining me all the way from Jedburgh Baptist in Scotland, brought his characteristically insightful and biblically grounded perspective to the table.

For those unfamiliar with Pastor Bob's ministry, I encourage you to check out ScotlandBaptist.com. His website is a treasure trove of biblically sound teachings, tackling topics many shy away from, including spiritual warfare and the discernment of pagan influences in our modern world. He also runs Little Flock Radio.com, a 24/7 gospel music and Bible teaching online radio station – a fantastic resource for anyone seeking to deepen their faith.

Pastor Bob’s mission is clear: to teach and equip the body of Christ. As he eloquently put it, while soul-winning is paramount, teaching those who are won how to also win others is exponentially more impactful. His heart is to see believers grounded in biblical truth, shying away from the fleeting trends of modernism and returning to the foundational teachings of the Bible, mirroring the ministry of Jesus and His disciples.

When the World Goes Digital: My Initial Thoughts

Honestly, when Pokemon Go first hit the scene, my initial reaction was a mix of amusement and bewilderment. Seeing people of all ages walking around, phones in hand, eyes glued to the screen, felt a bit supernatural in its own way. On one hand, I thought, “Hey, at least they’re getting some exercise!” As Pastor Bob pointed out, there's a sliver of a silver lining in people getting off the couch and moving around, much like with geocaching.

However, the sheer intensity of the phenomenon quickly raised red flags for me. Susan and I often go for prayer walks in our neighborhood here in Brantley, Alabama, and we started noticing something peculiar: cars driving slowly down the street, occupants clearly engrossed in their phones, in areas where we'd never seen such traffic before. It was a tangible sign of how this virtual world was impacting the real one.

Then I saw a meme of a church sign – I can't recall the exact wording – but it essentially invited Pokemon Go players to take advantage of the church as a "Pokestop." While I understand the desire to connect with people and perhaps draw them in, it made me question the underlying motivation. Are we offering them Jesus, or just a chance to snag a digital creature?

The Tangible Dangers: More Than Just a Game

Pastor Bob rightly highlighted some very real physical dangers associated with Pokemon Go. We discussed news reports of people driving dangerously while playing, leading to accidents. Imagine crashing your car over a virtual monster! It sounds absurd, but it happened. People were so engrossed in their phones that they were oblivious to their surroundings, leading to falls, injuries, and even tragically, deaths. Nothing in the virtual realm holds value over a human life.

Beyond personal safety, there are also serious concerns about exploitation. The game often involves going to specific locations, and unfortunately, this opened doors for nefarious individuals. Pastor Bob, with his background in law enforcement, raised valid alarms about children being lured to isolated areas, potentially leading to muggings or worse. The camaraderie that spontaneously arose among players also presented a risk, as children might interact with strangers they would normally be cautioned against. As Christian parents, our primary responsibility is the safety and well-being of our children.

The Deeper Questions: A Biblical Examination

This brings us to the crux of the matter: should Christians be participating in Pokemon Go? What does the Bible say that can guide us in this area? I’m so glad Pastor Bob addressed this directly. Proverbs 22:6 (KJV) tells us:

“Train up a child in the way he should go: and when he is old, he will not depart from it.”

Our focus as Christian parents should be on training our children in the ways of God, not in the pursuit of virtual novelties that hold no eternal significance.

Jesus Himself, in Matthew 6:19-21 (KJV), exhorted us:

“Lay not up for yourselves treasures upon earth, where moth and rust doth corrupt, and where thieves break through and steal: But lay up for yourselves treasures in heaven, where neither moth nor rust doth corrupt, and where thieves do not break through nor steal: For where your treasure is, there will your heart be also.”

Our time, energy, and resources should be directed towards things that have eternal value, towards furthering God's kingdom.

While I'm not suggesting we all quit our jobs and become full-time missionaries (though that’s a noble calling for some!), we need to evaluate how we spend our time. Is chasing virtual pets truly aligning with laying up treasures in heaven? These digital fads, while momentarily engaging, are often fleeting. Remember Moshi Monsters or even the Beanie Baby craze? They captured everyone's attention for a while, then faded. While Pokemon has had more staying power, the principle remains: our ultimate focus should be on the eternal, not the temporal.

Some might argue that Pokemon Go could be used as a tool for evangelism, with churches becoming "Pokestops" to attract people. However, as Pastor Bob astutely pointed out, people are coming for the Pokemon, not necessarily for the Gospel. If we lure them in with a game, we’ll likely need to keep entertaining them with worldly things. True and lasting change comes through the power of the Word of God. When people are drawn to the truth of the Gospel and experience the transformative power of Jesus, that’s what will sustain them.

Think about the story of the rich young ruler (Matthew 19:16-22). He came to Jesus seeking eternal life, but when faced with the cost – selling his possessions and following Christ – he walked away, saddened by his great wealth. Jesus didn't chase after him; He allowed him to make his own choice. God desires hearts that willingly serve Him out of love, not by coercion or through worldly enticements.

The most powerful way we can promote Jesus is through our personal testimonies, sharing our own experiences of how He has changed our lives, coupled with the unchanging truth of the Word of God. As Mary Magdalene did after encountering the resurrected Christ, we can simply say, “I have seen the Lord!” (John 20:18).

The Roots of Pokemon: A Cause for Concern?

Delving deeper, Pastor Bob explored the origins of Pokemon, tracing it back to the trading cards and video games of the mid-1990s. He drew a parallel to the intense obsession that developed around these cards, even leading to alarming incidents like a child attacking a teacher for confiscating them or another being stabbed over stolen cards. This level of fixation should give us pause.

Interestingly, Pastor Bob pointed out that the company behind Pokemon is the same one that owns Dungeons and Dragons and Magic: The Gathering – games with well-documented links to the occult. While this doesn't automatically condemn Pokemon, it warrants a closer look at its underlying themes and potential influences.

Considering the words of Jesus in Luke 6:43-45 (KJV), we are called to examine the roots of things:

“For a good tree bringeth not forth corrupt fruit; neither doth a corrupt tree bring forth good fruit. For every tree is known by his own fruit. For of thorns men do not gather figs, nor of a bramble bush gather they grapes. A good man out of the good treasure of his heart bringeth forth that which is good; and an evil man out of the evil treasure of his heart bringeth forth that which is evil: for of the abundance of the heart his mouth speaketh.”

If the roots are questionable, can the fruit truly be good?

Many in the modern church try to use worldly methods – movie clips, superhero analogies – to connect with people and share the Gospel. While the intention might be good, we must be discerning. Are these truly the most effective and biblically sound ways to represent Christ?

Unpacking the Spiritual Implications

Pastor Bob shared some fascinating insights from an interview with Satoshi Tajiri, the creator of Pokemon. Tajiri stated that a key element of the game's success was that the monsters are controllable by the players. He even suggested that these monsters could represent the "monster within you," like fear or anger, contained in capsules. Furthermore, players can give their Pokemon individual names, fostering a deeper attachment.

This concept of controlling creatures, even if they represent inner struggles, bears an unsettling resemblance to occult practices, specifically witchcraft, where the idea of summoning and controlling spirits exists. While I understand that on the surface, it’s just a game, we as Christians need to be aware of any underlying philosophies that might subtly shape our thinking or desensitize us to certain spiritual concepts.

The fact that these Pokemon can gain power through training and the strong emotional bonds players form with them also echoes concerns found in some false religions and cults, where entities gain influence through worship and devotion. While I’m not definitively saying that Pokemon are demonic entities, we need to exercise discernment and be mindful of the potential for unintended spiritual consequences.

Pastor Bob clarified that while some might claim all Pokemon names are derived from demons, he hasn't found conclusive evidence for this. For example, Pikachu’s name seems to be based on Japanese onomatopoeia for electric sounds and the word for mouse. However, he did note that some names do sound rather suggestive.

Conclusion: Where Does Our Allegiance Lie?

As believers, our allegiance is to Jesus Christ. Our pursuit should be Him and His Kingdom. While something like Pokemon Go might seem like harmless fun, we need to consider its potential dangers, its underlying themes, and whether it truly aligns with our calling to lay up treasures in heaven.

Let us be wise stewards of our time and resources, focusing on what truly matters for eternity. Let’s prioritize teaching our children the Word of God and living lives that reflect His love and truth. Instead of chasing virtual creatures, let's wholeheartedly chase after Jesus, the One who offers true and lasting fulfillment.

What are your thoughts on this? Have you considered the spiritual implications of seemingly harmless entertainment? I’d love to hear your perspective in the comments below. And if you found this discussion valuable, please subscribe to my newsletter and follow me on social media for more content that brings Jesus to your face!

Until next time, keep digging deeper and going higher in your walk with the Lord! God bless you.

www.ScotlandBaptist.com

www.LittleFlockRadio.com

From the Pit to the Frontlines: My Interview with Jonny Gaston on Prophetic Ministry and Supernatural Faith

Jonny Gaston Testimony - Ministry Spotlight Interview  

Today, I want to share something that has profoundly stirred my spirit. I recently had the honor of interviewing a man who is the embodiment of a firebrand for Christ. His name is Jonny Gaston, the founder of  Frontline Ministrires, and he is an evangelist who doesn't just talk the talk; he walks the walk, right into the heart of the fire.

When I spoke with him, he was live on the ground in Baton Rouge, Louisiana, ministering in the wake of the tragic police shootings there. This was right after he had been called to do the same in Dallas, Texas. This isn't a man who sits on the sidelines. He hears the call of God, and he goes. His passion for Jesus is, I believe, unparalleled among the people I know.

This interview was more than just a ministry spotlight; it was a raw, unfiltered look into a life completely transformed by a supernatural God. It’s a story of what happens when a person truly grasps the urgency of the Gospel and allows God to turn their greatest pain into their most powerful purpose. So grab your coffee, and let’s get into it.

The Mandate That Drives the Mission

One of the first things I wanted to know was why. What motivates a person to leave the comfort of their home and run toward chaos and grief?

Jonny’s answer was both simple and deeply profound. He doesn’t see himself as some radical, special-ops Christian. "That's just me being a basic biblical Christian," he told me. His entire ministry is built on the foundation of what he calls our mandate, not a suggestion, from Jesus Himself in Mark 16:15 (KJV): "And he said unto them, Go ye into all the world, and preach the gospel to every creature."

He shared a statistic that should shake every believer to their core: only two to three percent of Christians regularly share their faith. "I'm not okay with that number," he said, the conviction evident in his voice. "That bothers me... that hurts me."

It's a convicting thought. Jonny challenged me to consider what the modern church would look like if we placed it inside the pages of the Book of Acts. Would it even be recognizable? The Book of Acts never truly ended; it’s the continuing story of the acts of the Apostles, and we are the next chapter. If our lives don't reflect that same passion for the lost, have we lost the plot? This isn't just about ministry; it's about obedience.

A Personal Journey from the Depths of Hell

Jonny's fire for the Lord is so intense that you might assume he was born in a pew, radiating passion from the cradle. But the truth is far more gripping and a testament to the redemptive power of Jesus.

I asked him if he was always this on fire, and he was brutally honest. No. His journey to the frontlines began in the deepest, darkest pit imaginable.

The Roots of Pain

Before Christ, Jonny was a practical atheist, a compulsive liar, and a thief, drowning in pornography and sin. His disbelief in a loving God wasn't an intellectual choice; it was forged in the fires of a childhood home he described as "hell." He spoke of a workaholic father, of constant yelling and profanity that echoed through the walls, and of a home utterly devoid of love.

The darkness deepened with horrific abuse. He was sexually abused by a neighbor, an act that stole his childhood innocence and purity. This trauma, compounded by the emotional and verbal abuse at home, plunged him into a spiral of pain and hatred. The weight of it all became so unbearable that he began to self-harm, cutting his own flesh to find an outlet for the torment inside. He showed me a scar on his wrist, a permanent reminder of a time when death seemed like the only escape. He even wrote a suicide letter, ready to end his life with his father's gun.

The Supernatural Moment of Salvation

Right there, on the absolute brink, God intervened. A youth pastor reached out and shared the Gospel with him. Jonny’s initial reaction was rage. How could anyone speak of a good and loving God when his life was a testament to pain and suffering?

But this youth pastor was faithful. He didn’t back down. He explained the concept of a fallen world, that Jonny was a victim of someone else’s sin problem. And in that moment, something clicked. For the first time, Jonny had a framework to understand his suffering. It wasn't that God was cruel; it was that the world was broken and in desperate need of a Savior.

When he heard that Jesus, in His infinite love, had paid the penalty for his sin, that God saw his hurt and offered not just forgiveness but healing and complete restoration, the walls came down. He repented and gave his life to Christ. It was a perfect illustration of what the Apostle Paul writes in 1 Corinthians 1:18 (KJV): "For the preaching of the cross is to them that perish foolishness; but unto us which are saved it is the power of God." The Gospel was the power of God that literally pulled Jonny out of the grave he was digging for himself.

Prophetic Action in the Face of Tragedy

Jonny’s testimony is the "why" behind his ministry. Because he was rescued from the pit, he now spends his life pulling others out. His work in Dallas and Baton Rouge was a prophetic act, a declaration that even in the midst of unspeakable tragedy, God's light shines brightest.

The Dallas Awakening

When Jonny first heard about the five officers shot in Dallas, his honest, initial reaction was apathy. "Oh, here we go again," he thought, desensitized by the constant barrage of bad news. But that numbness scared him. He went alone into his room and prayed, "God, you got to break me again."

And God did. As Jonny prayed, his heart broke for the families, for the children who lost their fathers, for the wives who lost their husbands. He was reminded of Nehemiah, who, upon hearing of Jerusalem's ruin, wept, mourned, fasted, and prayed before the God of heaven (Nehemiah 1:4). Like Nehemiah, Jonny knew prayer wasn't enough. He had to go.

In a stunning display of supernatural provision, he made one post on social media about his calling to go to Dallas. Within eight hours, while he was out cutting lawns to make a living, $2,500 was raised to fund the mission.

His strategy in Dallas was clear: go where the hurt is. He knew that when people are confronted with death, they begin to ponder their own mortality. It's in that moment of questioning that their hearts are most open to the hope of everlasting life. His obedience yielded incredible fruit. He told me the story of an officer who, after receiving a Gospel tract, violently grabbed his arm, turned him around, and with tears in her eyes, pleaded, "Please tell me how I can know that if I die, that I can go to heaven." By the end of his four-day trip, Jonny had led four officers to a saving faith in Jesus Christ.

The Spiritual Climate: A Tale of Two Cities

One of the most eye-opening parts of our conversation was Jonny’s comparison of the spiritual atmospheres in Dallas and Baton Rouge.

In Dallas, a city filled with massive, "Six Flags over Jesus" mega-churches, he was stunned by the lack of visible ministry on the streets. He and his team felt like they were the only ones there, actively reaching out to the hurting.

Baton Rouge was the complete opposite. The moment they arrived, a police chaplain pulled them into a prayer circle. They saw believers everywhere, from other ministries like the Billy Graham Evangelistic Association to local Christians handing out tracts. He attended a prayer service with 7,000 believers from every denomination imaginable, all united in worship and intercession for their city. It was a picture of the Church being what it’s called to be: alive, active, and present in its community. It was a living example of Ephesians 5:14 (KJV): "Wherefore he saith, Awake thou that sleepest, and arise from the dead, and Christ shall give thee light." The sleeping giant of Baton Rouge was awake.

Creative Evangelism: Putting Feet to the Faith

Jonny's ministry, Frontline, doesn't just preach; it serves. They utilize creative, disarming methods to build bridges from the natural to the spiritual. In Baton Rouge, they set up a "Need Prayer?" tent, giving out cold water on hot days. They stood on street corners with a "Free Money" sign, handing people a real dollar bill attached to a Gospel tract. They gave local police officers gift cards for a free meal, showing appreciation before sharing the hope of Christ.

These aren't gimmicks. They are relational tools. They use humor and generosity to break down walls, earn the right to be heard, and open a door to share the most important message a person can ever hear. The result? They prayed with three teenagers at their prayer tent who all gave their lives to Jesus that day.

My Personal Reflections on a Modern-Day Apostle

Talking with Jonny was like receiving a prophetic jolt to the system. Here is a man living out the truth of 2 Corinthians 5:17 (KJV): "Therefore if any man be in Christ, he is a new creature: old things are passed away; behold, all things are become new."

God took his story of brokenness, abuse, and suicidal despair and transformed it into a powerful weapon for the Kingdom. He is fearless, not because he is reckless, but because he has been to the bottom and knows that Jesus is the Rock at the bottom. He understands the urgency of the mission. As he reminded me, 150,000 people die every single day, swept into eternity without a second chance. That reality fuels his fire.

It's a fire that should fuel all of us. We are all called to be ambassadors. We are all given a ministry of reconciliation. Jonny’s story isn't meant to make us feel inadequate; it’s meant to make us ask ourselves a hard question: Are we answering the call?

At the end of our interview, Jonny prayed for the Church, for God to wake up the "sleeping giant" and for believers to become the hands and feet and mouthpiece of Jesus. He prayed for us to be broken by the things that break the heart of God, so that our hearts, in turn, move our hands and feet.

I want to echo that prayer. Jonny's life is a testament to the fact that God doesn’t call the equipped; He equips the called. He’s not looking for perfect people, just willing hearts.

What is God calling you to do? Who in your life needs to experience the supernatural, life-changing love of Jesus?

Leave a comment below and share your thoughts. How has this story challenged you?

And as always, thank you for being a part of ConradRocks.Net. Until we meet again, dig deeper and go higher.