EV TIPS: Guys with Guns Always Win

The question was asked: “How far can you go when sharing your faith or handing out a tract?” I answered, “As far your courage lets you.”

When we were at the Redondo Beach Pier last Saturday, our team of evangelists had just manuevered into position, million dollar bill gospel tracts in hand, when a police officer said in his authoritative voice, “You need a permit to hand those out here.” I gently and respectfully replied, “But this is our First Ammendment right to do this.” To save face, he said this as he quickly walked away: “I’ll have to check on the Municipal Code…”

In a country where rights to free speech are slowly eroding away, we need to be mindful that the laws protecting our freedoms will not always be enforced, due to ignorance, or through the force of an individual’s will, in this case, a police officer. We had the right to do this, but a cop can essentially do whatever he wants because he has a gun and the authority of the State. I told our team that we should move to another part of the pier to be on the safe side. I also encouraged our cameraman to always record these incidents—just in case.

There will always be a risk when sharing Christ; we are promised persecution. Where you go and share is determined by your boldness. Remember, we have the commendation and approval of God on our side—even when we sit in a jail cell unjustly accused.
-SS

Comments (4)

  1. Bizzle

    Reply

    Well done! Bravo for defending your right. Please get this out to all of your congregation and even your non-Christian brothers and sisters. We all need to be aware of this.

  2. Bizzle

    Reply

    You know, come to think of it, this might be a great way to transition into talking about the Gospel. Hook people in with talk of eroding freedom and tell them you’re finding it harder to spread your message, then bam! right into the Gospel!

  3. Carol Nicholson

    Reply

    When I first read in Revelation 21:8, specific sins that keep us out of heaven, I had difficulty understanding why the FEARFUL. Being obedient to the Great Comission, truly makes the bible come alive, and greatly helps in “developing the mind of Christ”. I have often encountered the same situation, with the officers telling me I cannot use the sound system. My response is the same, I keep on preaching, and God strenghtens my vocal cords. We cannot allow the devil to shut us up, but we must also comply with the authority. We do not want to blow our witness. Sometimes there is a fine line, when we know they are usurping their power. You did the right thing Steve. Fear God more than you fear men! Keep up the good work!

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