collegiansforchrist-new

God Has Conquered Everything

Mon, 27 Apr 2026 08:00:09 GMT

We as humans get this idea stuck in our minds that the things around us have to keep us captive.

We often let impatience keep us in anxiety. We let worry keep us from wisdom. We run around chasing our emotions like a dog chasing its tail. A never-ending cycle of sad happy sad happy. How often do we look to the truth of the Bible, “For with God nothing shall be impossible.”

Luke 1:37

How great is this truth, how often do we let it slip past our minds, how great is the love of God for us. That He would send His only Son to love us, to teach us, to die for us, His Spirit to live within us, and to give us strength for each and every day.

Nothing is impossible with God, He has conquered everything. God hasn’t simply given us strength through worries or trials. He hasn’t made our loads lighter or burdens simpler, but He has conquered it all. He has taken away everything which keeps us in bondage. He has gone away with the old and given us new. New life, new hearts, new love, new minds, new rest, and a peace which surpasses beyond any stretch of our imaginations.

God has conquered all. He has gone out of the bounds of all logic in His grace and mercy, giving us that which we do not deserve in loving us so much that He would suffer and die for our good. Because of this we are now given all that we need for every moment in all things at all times.

We have the grace of Christ, the love of God, and communion with the Holy Spirit of our God most high. Truly we can say, “Nay, in all these things we are more than conquerors through him that loved us.” Romans 8:37

The Lord our God is our Shepherd, our Father, our Lord, and above all things He is the Conqueror Who is on our side fighting every battle and lifting every burden.

We must pray,

Lord,

guide me in my thoughts and help me to trust all that I have with You. You love me, and this truth will I never let go. You give to me all the things that I need for each and every moment. Never am I left wanting, never am I left unsatisfied, never do I remain broken because You are my God, Conqueror of everything that is against me. Lord, I love You and every day will I choose to because I am also made a conqueror in the name of Jesus, by the blood of Jesus, through the love of God.

Lord, conquer my heart.

Amen

Come Sunday Morning

Mon, 20 Apr 2026 08:00:23 GMT

Oh this life, filled with troubles, traps, trials.

We often let these issues take over our hearts. They occur so much so that people seek out therapists, they are ridden with stress, and even have these problems lead them down far worse paths.

You might be on one of those broad and lonely paths of stress yourself this very day. Finances, people, other circumstances all lead to the same result when faced alone. This world can be defined as evil. People’s own greed and pride lead them to addictions, apathy, and full out wars. That is the fallen nature of man and the broken structure of this world. But, to say that man is fallen and this world is broken is to say that there is a greater standard to the two that is waiting to be attained.

It is true, man was created to be in a more perfect state of living. This world was created to be full of life and peace. As we would say, it is what God had intended. But, man being selfish took whatever they could into their own hands and it has led us to all of this hurt of struggle, pain, death that we face day to day.

You are not alone in what you are facing. So many are on the same path you are.

To say all of this without revealing the greater truth would be to speak in vain. For there is no greater truth than when we realize that each week will come Sunday morning. Sunday morning, not just another day in the mundane week, but a day of remembrance on the greatest act of loving power to ever occur. Sunday morning is when our LORD and our Savior, the living Son of God, Jesus, rose from the grave!!! No longer was He laid down in His tomb but He rose Himself from the dead to life!

How does this help us in all of our troubles??? It is with no doubt that I can tell you, because He lives we can live in Him! Jesus did not come from Heaven to do a magic trick, He came to save every single soul! He came to free you from this world and save your soul from Hell. Because Jesus lives we can live with Him in Heaven. Because Jesus lives we can live in joy each and every day, free from our addictions, and full of life!

Do not worry for the things of this world, because come Sunday morning we are corporately reminded of the great love and freedom Jesus provides!

True Salvation!

Mon, 13 Apr 2026 08:00:04 GMT

If you died today, where would you go?

If the Lord had said that your time has come and it is now time for you to go, would it be Heaven or Hell? There are many answers which people give to this question, they might say, “I hope Heaven,” they might say, “I don’t know,” or they’ll confidently say, “I know I would go to Heaven.”

Sadly, all too often we’ll we hear the first two answers. Not knowing, or hoping, removes the assurance of the precious blood of Jesus. The Bible is clear on, “These things have I written unto you that believe on the name of the Son of God; that ye may know that ye have eternal life, and that ye may believe on the name of the Son of God.” 1 John 5:13

Salvation isn’t something that we hope for or something that we work towards, but it is a free gift of Jesus Christ.

I encourage you do not rob yourself of peace from the assurance of Jesus by saying that you do not know if you would go to Heaven. if you are truly a child of God you can know because Jesus has promised it.

Now, this knowing does not come from being good enough for God, it does not come from knowing more about God, it does not even come because your family is Christian or because you were born a Christian. The Bible says that we are born in sin, and that all have fallen short of the glory of God. Meaning that we alone cannot be good enough for God. We are all guilty in our trespasses and sins against God and we know it each and every day through the guilt that we bear. If you think that you were born a Christian or have always been a Christian, this is not what the Bible says. Salvation from Jesus is a gift. The Bible says not by works lest any man should boast, but by the grace of God. Being a gift it must be received by the person. We are not born having the gift of salvation. Romans 10:9 says, “that if thou shalt confess with thy mouth the Lord Jesus, and shalt believe in thine heart that God hath raised him from the dead, thou shalt be saved.”

My question to you is have you ever received this gift?

Has there been a moment in time where you directly called out to the Lord and received his salvation? Again, you can know all about God, you can grow up going to church, and you can live your life, giving everything you have to the poor and being a good person, but none of these things will get you to Heaven. Only the blood of Jesus can save us , that being the sacrifice of Jesus on the cross, enduring Hell so that we don’t have to. The Bible is clear that you must call out to Jesus and believe in your heart that He is the Son of God and that God truly has raised Him from the dead because if you have not, if you cannot recall a moment where you’ve done this, then there is no other way to get into Heaven.

Jesus is the Way the Truth and the Life, no one can come to the Father, but by Him. So don’t lose Heaven on a maybe, don’t hope that you can get to Heaven, or don’t know that you can get to Heaven, or try to get to Heaven on your own, but call out to Jesus and believe on Him!!!

This one-time thing can never be taken from you!

Praise the Lord!

Mon, 06 Apr 2026 08:00:28 GMT

When you think about the Lord, what is He owed?

When you begin to remember what He’s done in your life, who has He been? I cannot speak for every person, but I know that in my own life, the Lord has been faithful and merciful.

While I may not know the details of each individual in this world, I know that He has created every single person according to His image with the blessings of life and breath, offering them all truth, love and salvation. While the goodness of God is not received by every single soul, it is offered unto all souls. On this same note, God is a god of justice requiring the right payment for the sins of man, but what is unusual to us is that alongside this rightful justice the Lord shines with so great a mercy and so great a grace that is incomparable to any other example found in this world.

While the world would say that you are a lost cause and a rebel owed complete eternal punishment. The Lord says He will take your punishment for you, and will pay His own justice with His own blood that you might have life and life everlasting.

Praise the Lord today, glorify His holy name, for He has given us life, joy, and peace and shown us kindness. When I think about the Lord, I think about this new life, He has given me. The old is gone and the new is come. Truly, I am a new creation in Christ for the same Spirit which raised Christ from the dead now lives in me and the life which I now live I have it more abundantly!

When I think about the Lord, I also think about the many blessings He has bestowed onto me. He has given me many wonderful friends and a kind family. I can say to you that even if your earthly family may be broken, there is a heavenly family that the Lord brings us into. Even if your earthly body is hurt or ridden with disease, there is a heavenly body awaiting us in Heaven where we can live eternally with the Lord who loves us. When I think of these things, and so much more, I have no choice but to praise the Lord, for whatever is broken in this world will be made whole when we meet with Him at that blessed home in Heaven.

The Importance of Female Laborers

Thu, 02 Apr 2026 17:08:08 GMT

The Importance of Female Laborers in College Ministry

I bet if we all closed our eyes and thought of our favorite elementary teacher, a face or memories of a sweet lady would pop into most of our heads. I know my mind immediately goes to my second-grade teacher. She had the sweetest personality, a loving—yet sometimes stern—voice that brought guidance and direction, and a God-given desire to invest in future generations.

If we look around at our college ministries, I’d say that college students—both males and females—could all use a loving, guiding voice from a trusted, wise woman to speak truth into their lives. Someone who is a few steps ahead in life, who can encourage and equip, and be an example for the young ladies walking around college campuses. When a female college student walks into a Bible study and sees a welcoming smile from a female mentor, there is an immediate sense of belonging. Seeing a woman serve and invest can provide the encouragement that they, too, can pour into the generation after them.

The Bible provides several examples of women, both married and single, who made an impact for the cause of Christ. Deborah, a prophetess and judge, used God’s Word to settle disputes among His people. Phoebe provided aid and protection to those in her church. And Priscilla served alongside her husband as a teacher and missionary with Paul. She opened her home to early believers, helped establish local churches, and faithfully taught from God’s Word. Clearly, we have many examples of women making an extraordinary impact on the life of the church—so where are those same examples today?

You may think, as a woman, that God hasn’t called you to be a leader in your church or a specific ministry, but that could not be further from the truth. The church needs strong, biblical female examples for the next generation to follow. You can model what a godly wife looks like for a male college student who longs for a future spouse. You can show the young women in your Bible study what it looks like to open your home and create a welcoming space for community. You can be an encouragement simply by showing up—even when you’re exhausted from whatever life has brought you that week.

So the next time your mind tells you that you’re not making a difference, think of someone in your life who made a difference for you. Then humbly ask God to use your life for His glory—you may be amazed at what He can do through you.

The Active Life

Thu, 26 Mar 2026 19:22:55 GMT

In following Jesus, we accept a gift unlike any other.

There was a sacrifice made by Christ, an eternal life and forgiveness offered to us, and a relationship made between the two. It seems to be, for so many people, the beginning of this relationship is where so many Christians choose to remain. So many forsake the active life we are called to live in Christ Jesus, our Lord, through His Holy Spirit within us.

To be Christian is to be as Christ. It is to be an ambassador of the risen Savior here on Earth until He returns once more.

Now, the gift of salvation is freely offered to all who believe in the resurrection of the son of God, Jesus, there is no doubt about that. The important part of this relationship, often overlooked and undervalued, is the active life which comes after salvation. This active life entails constant pursuit of Christlike living, fleeing from the snares of the enemy, and being transformed from our lustful flesh into righteous children of God. These aspects of sanctification are not simply at the point of our acceptance of the salvation of the Lord, but sole priorities to be chased as we live the rest of this life here on Earth.

We are soldiers, racers, those called to serve the living God and to run His most valuable race! This is the life we are called to as believers and this is the sole purpose of what we must live for.

Christlikeness is not simply an attitude, a group of moral ethics, but the way of living itself. Christ came and lived the ultimate life of perfection, we are to see His great example and be led by the Son of God! To live an active life we must live in Christlikeness; prayer, fasting, fellowship, the Word, love, are all aspects of active living in Christlikeness!

Actively fleeing from the ways of sinfulness brings us closer to Christ. Just because you are a Christian does not mean the devil will stop trying everything in his power to tear you away from living for Jesus. The enemy comes to steal, kill, and destroy. Stand guard against the sin in your life and the temptations to come! Pursue Jesus in every possible way you can!

This life we have been called to, the breath we have been blessed with, must not be traded for the riches of this world. For surely it all will fade away but the love of Christ forever will stay!

The Importance of Mentorship

Thu, 26 Feb 2026 19:40:01 GMT

What is Mentorship?

To many in the Christian world mentorship, discipleship, Christian brotherhood are words which all too often boil into one course of action. That being a 12 to 14 week book study where an older person leads a younger person once a week for 45 minutes through a prepared set of questions on specific readings and lessons.

It is situations such as these where the question comes, "What would Jesus do?"

When Jesus pursued His ministry, He said, "And when he had called the people unto him with his disciples also, he said unto them, Whosoever will come after me, let him deny himself, and take up his cross, and follow me." Mark 8:34

Jesus defines mentorship as full commitment, being ALL IN. This mentorship with Christ wasn't bound by a weekly book reading, but it is a life on life ministry where the mentor and the mentee have much to learn and to teach in all areas of this Christian walk.

What should the mentor expect?

Whether you are a leader at a church, in Bible study, amongst your classroom or household, mentorship is the call of every Christian who has grown in Jesus. While there is not a specific time at which each person is to take on the role of a mentor, it is completely dependent on your maturity and faith. The Bible does not say, "Believe and remain disciples," it says, "Go and make disciples."

As a Christian you are an example to all people at all times in all places. As a mentor you are a teacher to a specific person or small group of people for a specific time.

Mentorship, for both females leading females and males leading males, encompasses Bible study, accountability, faith living, prayer, and consistent fellowship. Each of these aspects are individual and important in giving the mentor the opportunities to lead the mentee in all ways.

Bible Study allows the mentor to teach on a solid biblical foundation where all lessons are not opinions but truth.

Accountability keeps both parties kept to standards of holiness and Christlikeness in honest communication.

Faith living causes the relationship to affect every aspect of the mentee's life. From the lessons being taught by the mentor and the actions witnessed, the mentee ought to follow and take action in his or her own life. Whether that be evangelizing, grabbing lunches, prayer walks, faith living is the application of preparation.

Prayer consistently from both parties over one another allows them both to stay strong and encouraged as their relationship grows. Remembering that it is through Christ alone by which all things can be done.

Consistent fellowship is where the life on life comes into play. In any way necessary, the mentor invites the mentee into his or her life through lunches, grocery shopping, coffee at home, on-campus evangelism, door-to-door tract knocking. This provides a first person look at how ministry is pursued in all parts of a Christian's life.

What should the mentee expect?

Being a mentee, the first step is to look for a mentor. Your first thought might be to create a checklist of who you want teaching you and going out choosing exactly who fills those requirements. But, the first step of finding a mentor is to pray. Pray that the Lord will reveal to you who He would have to teach you. When you ask God to grow for Jesus, your prayers will never return empty.

When you do have options for mentors, make sure that they are faithful in church, that they are Christlike in their interactions with others, and that their personal walk with Jesus is one to be modeled after.

The best way to learn about mentorship from a mentee's perspective is to hear what one here at CFC has had to say, "In coming here to CFC, I prayed for a mentor, and it wasn't long until God opened that door. After over a year of being mentored I have practically grown in my faith. From having a one-on-one relationship with the Lord that was wrapped up in Bible reading here and there and daily prayer I have learned what it means to live a Christian life, wherever I go, around all types of people. My mentor has seen the desires of my heart and given me opportunities to grow through evangelism, teaching, Bible study, and even leading others to the Lord. One-on-one consistent and intentional mentorship has given me a solid foundation in my faith to where I am now ready to mentor others, who will then mentor others, growing God's kingdom!"

Take Note.

The fullness of biblical mentorship can't be confined to one single blog post. That being said, take note of these important challenges when you pursue mentorship.

Be personable .
See the needs of your mentee and be patient .
Ask your mentor specific questions and be teachable .
Always be honest and communicate often.

Go, Make Disciples!

True biblical mentorship is not something to be done sparsely, but ought to be pursued by every Christian seeking to grow the Church. Mentorship is so important because it provides new believers with the opportunity to be led and taught by seasoned believers. When believers are to start from scratch in their knowledge of the Lord, left with nobody to teach them, then the body of Christ has no strength. But when mentors teach others, the body of Christ grows with knowledge passing from generation to generation.

The call of every believer is to GO! To make disciples of every nation, multiplying our efforts and growing exponentially in the name Jesus Christ.

Resources for Teaching and Learning

Tue, 27 Jan 2026 17:08:07 GMT

Bible Studies are always Available!

Whether you are leading a CFC on your campus, teaching through the Bible with your new-believer friend, or seeking to learn the Bible to grow in Christlikeness, all of the Bible studies we have to offer are filled with biblical truth free for you to use. We believe that the Bible ought to be taught, heard, and applied in order to fulfill our mission to reach, teach, connect and impact first college campuses and second the world! Every Bible study we have created is available and free to use for all people for these key purposes of honoring the Gospel. These Bible studies are available in a study guide, teacher outline, and mp3 formats that are downloadable.

Below you will find three of the latest Bible studies available on our website for you to teach!

Just click each picture and you will be able to find the study guide to provide to students, the teacher outline with all necessary background, and the mp3 to learn the subjects yourself.

Getting to Know God

How we know someone will determine what we think of them, how we interact with them, how we respond, and what we will do for them. Knowing God is the ultimate goal and achievement in life. It has been said that, "What we know to be true about God is the most important thing about us." This study will help us to understand God in a deeper more personal way that will affect all areas of our life.

Understanding and Practicing Forgiveness

Forgiveness must cost you something which is why forgiveness may be one of the hardest truths to practice in life. How often and how far do we have to go with forgiveness? What about when someone keeps needing forgiveness? How do we handle forgiveness and establishing boundaries at the same time? These are just a few of the questions we will answer as we seek to gain a full understanding of what forgiveness is and how we can apply that our lives practically.

The Parable of the Two Sons

The Parable of the two sons reveals two different ways to be separated from God and to seek acceptance or favor with God into heaven. It reveals two very different ways of life that people pursue personal significance, worth, meaning, happiness, and purpose. This study will examine in detail both sons and how their approach to God and life relate so closely to people's approach today.

Learn and Teach!

Every resource at Collegians For Christ is available for leaders and learners alike, use it!

Engaging an Almost Christian

Wed, 10 Dec 2025 20:35:49 GMT

The importance of never assuming.

You can never assume anyone is saved! This may be one of our biggest problems in reaching Almost Christians. We assume they are good because they look and talk the part or because they say they are Christian. We have to stop assuming and do our part in discovering. It is our job to be sure. God says in 1 John 5:13, that a person can know 100% for sure that they are saved. Since that is the case, we have to make 100% sure people are saved. We can assume people right to Hell. We have to be sure. If someone says they are a Christian, they should have no problem telling us about how they became a Christian. We should have no problem asking them about how they came to know Jesus. For a true believer, this should never be a hard or awkward conversation. If it is, that is a big clue that they are an Almost Christian.

The importance of digging deeper to discover.

Discover their true testimony.

Our role as an evangelist is to diagnose where they truly are so we know where to go. Ask open-ended questions to discover what the person believes.

Questions to avoid asking:
Are you saved?
Are you going to Heaven when you die?
Are you a Christian?
Almost Christians will typically answer yes to these questions very quickly. This will stop the conversation and make it hard to go further.

Questions to ask:
Share with me your testimony. Who you were before you came to Jesus, how you came to know Jesus, and what He has done in your life since?
Tell me about the time when you got saved?
Share with me when you called on Jesus Christ to save you?
If you died today, where will you go?

Listen well to word choices to clue you in.

Listen to their responses well so you know where you need to go. Here are some responses that detect an Almost Christian:

Conversations about God, church, and faith are natural, but conversations about Jesus, salvation, and the gospel are awkward.
They talk all about God but little to nothing about Jesus.
They have always been a Christian. They have been a Christian for as long as they can remember.
They refer back to going to church, church membership, or baptism constantly.
They talk all about what they have done.
They talk about how they are a pretty good person or are not a bad person.
They refer back to their family, heritage, or upbringing as the bases for being a Christian.
They are never able to pinpoint a time or decision.

Ask probing discovery questions.

Take the question a step further. This step may be the most important part of witnessing to an Almost Christian. This step is what will help reveal whether they are a true Christian or an Almost Christian. This step is the difference between Heaven and Hell, between truly having a relationship with Jesus and just knowing of Him. Be willing to get out of your comfort zone and dig deeper to reveal the truth.

Whatever they respond with, you follow with:

What do you base that on?
How do you know that?
What makes you a Christian?
What gets a person to Heaven?
How does a person believe in Jesus?
What do you mean by that?

The importance of being patient.

For most people, coming to a true understanding of the Gospel may be a huge change in their belief system. It can be hard to change a belief, especially if it has been held for a long time and comes from people we love or trust. It can take people time to make this change. They may need time to internalize that what they have been taught or understood is not correct or fully true. There can be many layers of false beliefs that must be peeled back and removed. There can be the issue of what they believed came from people they trust and love, but it now means those people are wrong. It may take time to process and accept this before they are ready to believe in Jesus. For some, this can happen through one conversation, but for others, it may take multiple conversations and a longer period of time.

The importance of pinpointing a decision.

We need to help them understand what it means to be a Christian. There should be a time in their life that they can go back to. They might not remember an exact day or date that it occurred, but they can trace it back to a specific time in their life when they called on or believed in Jesus to be their Savior. If they cannot pinpoint a time, this may be revealing that there has never been one. Faith is a verb and is “venturing trust” in Jesus. As such, there should be a specific time when a person makes the decision to call on Jesus. If there has been one, then we can help them with assurance of their salvation and understanding what it means. We can help them understand how to communicate it clearly. If there has not been a time for them, we need to help them see their need for Jesus and how to call on Him.

The importance of getting them lost.

This is very important to get them further. Since they think they are good because they feel they are already a Christian, it is important to help them see that they are not. This will reveal their need to make a decision for Jesus. We will need to help them understand whatever it is they are identifying with that makes them a Christian is not truly sufficient. In this area, deal with people in love and compassion.

Get them lost to reveal their real need for Jesus Christ.

Use the law.
Help them see that being good enough is not enough. We are all guilty of breaking God’s Law. Help them to see why Jesus had to come and how we can receive the gift He offers to us.

Use the gift of eternal life.
Help them understand what the gift is all about and that it must be received. Share with them how a gift is freely given and the fact that it can’t be earned or bought, it can only be received.

Use the thief on the cross from Luke 23:32-43.
He is a powerful illustration that helps them to see that there is nothing else associated with being a Christian other than calling on Jesus Christ.

The importance of leading them to a point of decision for Jesus.

Often people will come to the realization that they have not taken the biblical step of calling on Jesus to save them. When they are ready, lead them to a point of decision to call on Jesus as their Savior. Help them to understand what they have done and that by calling or venturing trust in Jesus that is why they are saved.

Engage in confidence!

Almost Christianity is a prevalent version of Christianity and is extremely dangerous. The most important thing to remember is to never assume anyone is saved. It is our responsibility to get a clear testimony of when they called on Jesus.

Identifying an Almost Christian

Wed, 03 Dec 2025 20:43:37 GMT

Suggestions They Might Think.

In Identifying an almost Christian, they typically will fall into the thought categories which follow:

The idea that being a good American citizen automatically makes you a Christian.
Too often people equate being an American with being a Christian. "Since I have grown up in America and Christianity is the predominant religion, then I must be a Christian."

The idea that being a good moral person automatically makes you a Christian.
Almost Christians tend to think their good outweighs their bad. You may hear responses like: "I’m a pretty good person." "I’ve never been in jail or murdered anyone." "I’ve made decent grades." "I have worked hard and taken care of my family."

The idea that being raised around Christianity or in church automatically makes you a Christian.
Almost Christians will have the idea that having Christian heritage is the same as having faith. They think you inherit Christianity or salvation from a family member or someone close to them who is Christian. It is automatically transferred to a person just because they know people who are Christians or grew up around Christians. They equate church attendance or membership to salvation. When asked about salvation, they might respond by identifying with a church or denomination. You might hear, “I am Baptist, Methodist, or Catholic,” or “I grew up going to church."

Statements They Might say.

Jesus revealed that on the day of judgment, the people called out, “Lord, Lord,” and then followed with statements of all that they had done. These were their reasons why Jesus should let them into Heaven. Here are some statements you might hear an Almost Christian say as their reasoning:

Didn’t I pray for my meals?
Didn’t I vote my moral values?
Didn’t I believe in God and Heaven?
Didn’t I go to church?
Didn’t I want prayer and the Bible to stay in school?
Didn’t I give money to the church?
Didn’t I get sprinkled or baptized?
Didn’t I own a Bible?
Didn’t I get confirmed?
Didn’t I get angry when people said there is no God?
Didn’t I get tears in my eyes when I heard “God bless America” sung?

Just like in verse 21, it is all about what “they” did and nothing about what He has done. These are all great byproducts of being a Christian but not the basis for becoming one.

Signs They Might Display.

They may have a vague or generic belief in God but have no clear understanding of Christian doctrine or God’s character. These are people that believe in God, have a Bible, and believe in heaven. They know about Jesus and are sincere. They know His name, but He does not know them. There is no shortcut to Jesus or such a thing as automatic Christianity.

They may talk a lot about God and church but very little about Jesus as Savior. The generic belief in God comes out in their conversation. Everything points back to God, but very little is mentioned about Jesus. It is important to clarify their understanding of Jesus and the resurrection.

They may not understand how a person is saved or what it means to be saved. They often confuse salvation with doing something. They do not understand that it is a free gift that must be received.

They may substitute religious activity for a personal relationship with Jesus. The focus in their life will be on religious activity, which fuels their misunderstanding of Christianity. They equate activity with salvation.

Understanding an Almost Christian

Tue, 25 Nov 2025 18:25:47 GMT

The Dangers of Being an Almost Christian.

The destination of an almost Christian is dangerous.

Jesus teaches about two different doors with two completely separate destinations. The large door is the way many people will go that leads to Hell. The small door is where few people will go that leads to Heaven. He talks about disguised distractors that will try to purposely lead people to the wrong door. This creates a real danger for people.

2. The deception of an almost Christian is dangerous.

The deception comes from thinking that knowing of God, knowing of Jesus, going to church, or growing up in a Christian environment is enough to save them. They truly think they are good but are not. This deception is so dangerous because it becomes self deception. They think they are good, so they do not see the dangerous reality of their condition. The challenge is to help them come to the realization of their condition and true need for Jesus.

The Distinctions of Being an Almost Christian.

They think good intentions make them a Christian.

Matthew 7:13-15, 21-23 reveals that there are well-meaning people who have good intentions. They are very nice and giving. They do many good works for Jesus. They believe they are good people doing the actual teachings of Jesus. But, in the end, while they thought they knew Jesus, His response is that He never knew them. He reveals that they will not go to Heaven but will instead go to Hell.

2. They think growing up Christian makes them a Christian.

Just because a person grows up going to church faithfully means nothing when it comes to their own salvation. Just because their family is Christian and goes to church means nothing. Just because they know the Bible stories, were baptized, or know Christian songs means nothing when it comes to their own salvation. Our job is to help the almost Christian see past these external aspects of Christianity and see their true need to have a point in time when they have called on Jesus for salvation.

3. They think that knowing of God or Jesus Christ makes them a Christian.

In Matthew 7:21, these people know the name of Jesus, but He does not know them. Many people think that knowing “about God” or “of Jesus Christ” is enough to get them to Heaven. You can have an intellectual acknowledgment of something but not have ventured trust in it. What is the difference? The Bible tells us in James 2:19 that “The devils believe and tremble.” This reveals that we can have a head knowledge of Jesus but have not ventured faith in Him. This is why you can know all about Jesus but not believe in Him for salvation. This is why you can do many good works for Jesus but not believe in Him for salvation. In Jesus’ day, many people saw Him with their eyes. They knew His name and heard His teachings, but neither of these meant they were saved. The Bible teaches that there has to be a decision of our free will which occurs at a specific point in time.

Many people and many religions believe there is a God. Are all these going to Heaven? If this is the case, then why did Jesus have to die? Why must we call on Jesus Christ for salvation? Why must believers go into all the world and preach the gospel? It is those who do the will of the Father that Jesus knows and go to Heaven. What is the will of the Father? John 6:40 tells us, “And this is the will of him that sent me, that every one which seeth the Son, and believeth on him, may have everlasting life: and I will raise him up at the last day." Notice the two words that Jesus uses, “sees” and “believes.” Simply seeing Jesus or knowing of Him is not enough. It requires believing in Him. Believeth is a verb meaning to trust or place confidence in. We can help these almost Christians understand what it means to believe in Jesus or place their faith in Him.

Faith is “ventured trust.” Faith is venturing trust into something or someone because you have good reasons to do so. Faith is full “belief in” not merely “belief of.” A plane can help people understand faith. We can stand looking at a plane, knowing it is a plane, and know all about every aspect of that plane. We can stand staring at the plane with our ticket in hand and believe that it is safe and reliable. This is a form of knowledge but it is not faith. It only becomes faith when we “venture onto” the plane. You do not have faith in the plane and its pilots until you step onto the plane. Stepping onto the plane is venturing trust in the plane or placing your faith in the plane. Faith is a free act of the will. The mind discovers and can give reasons to believe but it is an act of the will to believe. You can check the plane out all you want but you have to exercise your will to get on the plane.

Avoid Being an Almost Christian.

The Bible uses two words, “call” and “believe”, interchangeably in order to place our faith or venture trust in Jesus. Both of these are verbs that require a deliberate decision at a specific point in time. You have “ventured trust” in Him when you call out to Jesus to save you.

Creative Ideas for Outreach Tables

Tue, 28 Oct 2025 17:38:04 GMT

What Is the Mission?

Before committing to any project, the purpose must be established. Understanding what you're doing and why you're doing it is key to faithfully accomplishing outreach tables. This can begin with a simple mission statement. The mission statement typically entails one to a few keywords which your outreach tables will actively seek to pursue. The mission statement for Collegians For Christ as well as these outreach tables, being a biproduct of CFC, is,

" Reaching college students by teaching the truth of God's Word and providing connection opportunities in order to impact our world with the Gospel! "

By looking at this mission statement we see that the outreach tables are for the purpose of reaching the secular campus, teaching students of the Bible study to outreach, connecting students with other students, and impacting the campus as a whole with the Gospel.

How Is this Mission Accomplished?

Following the mission statement to abide by is key towards efficient and organized tables, but how do you go about accomplishing the mission statement? A wonderful way to make sure every project in ministry is going by its specific mission statement is to ask questions. Using the statement above, you may ask,

"does this outreach table reach the university students well?"
"am I seeing the members of my ministry connecting with each other and being taught about God through these projects?"
"has there been an evident impact for the Gospel through these tables?

Asking yourself these questions and analyzing the tables by the framework of the mission statement can actively help you to adjust your projects, fruitfully growing your ministry and glorifying God. Make sure to consistently debrief the setup, process, and outcome of every outreach table in full.

Outreach Tables

Outreach tables are wonderful ways for college ministries to reach out to students on university campuses. They can range from comfortable and caring to personal and thought-provoking. The types of outreach tables in their creativity, purpose, set-up, and efficacy are endless. Some tables will need a trusted team of students from your ministry. For example, 2-4 equipped and trained students, who attend your Bible study, to stand behind the outreach table in guiding and serving the recipients of the table. Other outreach tables might be better with an older leader so that the recipient can more personally interact with the given prompts. You may have more thought-provoking tables which will require knowledgeable leaders to be seated behind the table. Remember, there is nothing new under the sun, so utilizing outside ideas in new ways for your outreach table is perfectly acceptable! Searching, "outreach table ideas," on Pinterest can easily be a tool for your creativity. Below, you will find a variety of creative ideas for outreach tables which have proven to be beneficial.

What's On Your Mind?

The focus of this table is the question, "What's on your mind?"

Reaching out to the students on a personal level, breaking the ice between you and their heart, to shine the light of Jesus is the greatest goal of college ministries. Finding a way to do this softly is where this table comes in. This table has a displayette of the question, "What's on your mind?", facing both directions of a pathway in front of the table. Having this question visible opens up the minds of the students to begin to analyze themselves. In front of the displayette are notecards with sharpies and three jars with the words, "gratitude," "grief," and "guidance," written on them. This allows the students, once analyzing the state of their minds and positions of their hearts, to write whatever personal prayer they might need to share. This table works well with 2 leaders and/or students sitting behind the table to present a comfortable and approachable space for students to either write their thoughts or even begin to talk about what is on their minds.

Exam Gift Bags

Exam gift bag tables are wonderful ways to show the students on campus that you care about their well-being. Having gift bags with a couple pieces of candy, electrolyte packets, wristbands, pens with the logo of your ministry and more can advertise your ministry while giving the students products they may need to prepare for their upcoming exams. More importantly, this table can open the door for conversations, such as talking about peace in times of stress. Exams are a stressful time for most any student, and all of them are seeking peace in their minds as they prepare for the exams. Being at a table, before the students, with gift bags, providing care, shows them that you are able to present them with comfort and peace. You are offering them immediate comfort as well as a Bible study, a community which will lead to long-term peace in Christ Jesus.

Envelopes of Encouragement

This table's focus is sharing the Word of God and encouraging the students walking by.

Having a displayette with a straight-to-the-point summary of the purpose of the table is useful for quickly catching the eye of any student walking by. For example, this table has, "take your pick!" It tells the student that they are being asked to take something of their choice. Having the tripod with the board, "Envelopes of Encouragement," shows the student that there is a quick and easy way for them to pick up some encouragement. Every student needs encouragement. Every person has struggles and nobody would deny a quick way to find relief from those struggles, or added strength to get through those struggles. This table approaches the struggles in the students' lives in a fun way, allowing them to take part in some mystery and chance.

Within each envelope is a card, containing both a verse and an application of encouragement. This effectively presents the Word of God to the recipient while also directing them in the way it should be applied, not leaving the Bible up to random interpretation, but deliberate Spirit-filled wisdom. Examples of these cards are:

"Casting all your care upon him; for he careth for you." 1 Peter 5:7
Give your worries to God, let go and let God love you.
"Trust in the Lord with all thine heart; and lean not unto thine own understanding." Proverbs 3:5
When things are confusing, look to God. He is the truth!
"Have not I commanded thee? Be strong and of a good courage; be not afraid, neither be thou dismayed: for the Lord thy God is with thee whithersoever thou goest." Joshua 1:9
No matter what happens or where you go, God is with you! Be strong.
"And we know that all things work together for good to them that love God, to them who are the called according to his purpose." Romans 8:28
I don’t have to stress, when I am following God, I am safe.
"God is our refuge and strength, a very present help in trouble." Psalm 46:1
God is there for me, in every moment He is the only place of safety.
"This is the day which the Lord hath made; we will rejoice and be glad in it." Psalm 118:24
Be grateful for what you have! You woke up this morning, life is a gift!
"Jesus saith unto him, I am the way, the truth, and the life: no man cometh unto the Father, but by me." John 14:6
We can’t be good enough on our own, we need Jesus!

Prayer-Box

The Prayer-Box table is a fantastic way to reach the students in deep personal connection. This table presents a locked wooden box beside notecards and pens along with a displayette which says, "Can we pray for you?" Whether you have leaders comfortably sitting at the table, or an unmanned and approachable table, most every student is willing to receive an offer of prayer. Having leaders at the table can be a great way to spark personal conversation with the students. While having the table run itself can be a great way for students to understand that your ministry is reaching out, but not invasive, thus offering personal prayer.

Give it a try!

Your next step now is to either gather a team of students or to get out on campus and watch the Lord work! There are numerous ways to reach out to the ripe harvest of college campuses. Utilize these outreach table ideas and many others as you seek to glorify Jesus with the mission of the Gospel!

Communicating the Gospel through Scripture

Tue, 21 Oct 2025 17:32:09 GMT

There are various ways to communicate the Gospel to people. There is not a set 1-2-3 method. We will walk through one method that has proven to be extremely effective and easy to remember.

After we ask our spiritual discovery question of, "If you died today, where would you go?” typical responses will be something like: “I hope Heaven.” “I think Heaven.” “I’m not really sure.” “Can I really know?” “You can’t really be sure.” From there you can ask permission once again and follow with one of these questions: “Can I show you how you can know 100% for sure you can go to Heaven from the Bible?” “Do you mind if I show you what the Bible says about that?” “Do you have a few minutes for me to show you how to receive the gift of eternal life?”

If they answer yes, they have given you permission to share the Gospel. Use the Bible and walk through the gospel. Allow the person to see and read the scriptures for themselves. It is helpful to mark your Bible with the following verses by highlighting the verse and then writing the next verse on the page somewhere so you know where to go next. Memorize and know these verses inside and out.

1 John 5:13

This is a great verse to start with because it shows us that we can know whether we have eternal life or not. You can share something like this, “God wants you to know whether you have eternal life or not. You can receive it, and you can know you have it.” Now you can begin to show them how we can know.

Romans 3:23

We must help them see their need for Jesus. To do this, they must understand that they are a sinner and guilty of breaking God’s Law. Use this verse and then a couple of the Ten Commandments to reveal their sin and guilt towards God. You can ask a few questions.

"Have you ever lied about anything, no matter how small it may have been?" The Bible tells us, “Thou shalt not bear false witness.”
"Have you ever wanted something that someone else had?" The Bible tells us, “Thou shalt not covet.”
"Have you ever disobeyed your parents or guardians?" The Bible tells us to, “Honor thy father and thy mother.”
"Have you ever stolen something one time, regardless of its value?" The Bible tells us, “Thou shalt not steal.”
"Have you ever hated someone?" Jesus said it’s the same as murder. The Bible tells us, “Thou shalt not murder.”

You can now ask, “If you stood before God on Judgment Day, would you be innocent or guilty?” If they respond with guilty, you can now let them know what God has done for them.

Romans 5:8

You can share with them that the whole purpose of Jesus coming to Earth, dying, and resurrecting was to show God’s love to us and provide a way to have our sins forgiven. On the cross, He took your place and punishment.

Romans 6:23 & Ephesians 2:8-9

Let them know that sin has caused both spiritual and physical death. Sin has separated them from God, and there is a wage or payment required for their sin, which is physical death. That is why all people die. Emphasize that God has not left us in this condition but has offered us a free gift which is salvation through Jesus Christ.

Since a gift is so easily understood by people no matter their background, it is a powerful tool to use. Take a moment to illustrate what a gift is and how it is received. A gift cannot be earned. There is nothing you can do to earn a gift, or it would not be a gift. Salvation is not based on attending church, getting baptized, giving money, or any other type of works. A gift cannot be taken back. Once you receive the gift, it can never be taken back from you. It is not something that you have to keep doing over and over. Once you receive the gift, you are saved for eternity. A gift must be either received or rejected. God is offering them the gift, but they have the choice of whether to take it. If they do not take His gift, they are ultimately rejecting the gift.

You can ask at this point if they would like to receive God’s free gift of salvation. If they want to, you can now show them how in the next verse. If someone is struggling to understand that they don’t have to do something, you can talk about the thief on the cross in Luke 23:32-43. The thief could not do anything. He could not attend church, get baptized, read the Bible, give to the poor, or do any type of ministry-serving. All he could do was call on Jesus to save him. When he called on Jesus, Jesus responded that today he would be with Him in heaven.

Romans 10:13

Calling on Jesus is how a person receives the free gift. God says that it is, "whosoever," which means anyone. God does not say that we must clean ourselves up first and stop sinning. He just says that we are to call on Him. You can illustrate how to call on Jesus by how we use a phone to call someone. We dial a person’s number and that is who we are calling and when they pick up that is who we are talking to. We call out to Him by praying to Him and asking Him to save us. Ask them if they would like to call on Him to receive the free gift of salvation. Guide them into praying to Him. Encourage them to pray out loud if they are comfortable. If not, have them pray silently or with you as you guide them. Just remind them it is not a specific set of words but them simply calling out to Him from their heart.

An example: “Jesus, I know that I am a sinner and am asking you to forgive me. I’m calling on you to be my Savior.”

1 John 5:13

Once they have called on Jesus Christ as their Savior, you can end with the verse you started with. Read it and now ask them the question: “If you died today, where would you go?” They should respond with, "Heaven," and be able to tell you why at this point. If someone is still uncertain, go back and re-cover the verses and clear up any misunderstanding. Get them a Bible if they do not have one. Encourage them to write the date and any other information surrounding their decision so they can go back to it.

This is not the end but just the beginning. As we move forward and try to build a relationship, we should seek to disciple them, plug them into a church, share about the next step of baptism, and provide any resources and guidance to help them grow in their faith.

Communicating the Gospel by Being SALT

Wed, 15 Oct 2025 19:01:52 GMT

S tart a conversation

Be intentional. It all begins with intentionally engaging the person in conversation. It will not happen by accident. Think of each person God has placed around you and ask, “Do they know Jesus Christ as their Savior?” Make it your goal to find out. You can never assume!

Be conversational. Find common ground and ask questions about the person. Show interest in them. Do things to show you care. Share a meal or a cup of coffee together. Build a relationship. Get to know them as much as possible. Depending on how well you know the person will depend on how long this may take. If it is a stranger, ask questions about them until you find some common ground. If it’s someone you already know well, you are ready for the next step.

A sk Questions

Always use open-ended questions. These questions give you so much more information compared to a simple “yes” or “no” answer. These questions are designed to help you discover where the person is and to keep the conversation going. These types of questions learn more and dig deeper. “Yes” or “no” questions shut down the conversation quickly and make it harder to witness.

Ask permission before a sensitive question. For example, “Do you mind if I ask you a question?” This gives you the permission to ask the next question.

Ask spiritual discovery questions . "If you died today, where would you go?" "What is your belief system?" "What do you believe about God?" "What do you believe about Jesus?" "Can I pray for something for you?" "Have you ever felt that God was pursuing you?" "Tell me about a person whose spiritual life you admire." "What are your thoughts about the spiritual side of life?" The spiritual discovery question is the most important part of witnessing. This is where you intentionally take the conversation towards sharing the Gospel.

Ask questions to stay in control of the conversation. Continue using open-ended questions to guide the conversation. Using questions takes you off the hot seat, always having to answer. "What do you mean by that?" "How did you come to that conclusion?" "What do you base that on?" "How do you know that is true?"

L isten

Listen to show you care. Listen intently and genuinely to the answers to your questions. It will allow you to understand their background and what they are thinking in order to know where to go next.

Listen with your eyes, genuinely acknowledging what they are saying. This may be one of the most important aspects in our culture today and the opposite of what we typically think of when witnessing because we have something to share. Listening and showing genuine interest earns you the right to speak into their lives. When you show people you care, they will let you care about their soul.

Listen to determine where your audience is. Discover where your audience is to help you know where to start.

Listen for the deeper message. There may be another issue that needs to be answered before the Gospel can be shared. There is a lot that lies beneath the surface of small talk.

Listen without judgment. Show no judgment, no matter what they believe or how they respond. Watch your facial expressions. Allow them to be transparent and real with where they are and what they believe. In order to truly get to know the person, you have to give them an open door to open up.

T alk about Jesus and other spiritual matters

The goal at this point is to either leave them with something to think about or bring them to a point of decision. If we are not careful, we can short-change them by not guiding them to and through a point of decision. People do not always know what to do in order to call or believe on Jesus.

Leave them with something to think about. With so much confusion planted in the minds and hearts of people, sometimes the first encounter may not bring them to a ready point of decision. Many times the goal in our witnessing will be to leave them thinking. When we challenge their thinking by asking questions, the Holy Spirit can use that to convict and draw them to Jesus at a later time.

Bring to a point of decision. If you are able to share the gospel completely with the person, bring him or her to a point of decision as the Holy Spirit guides you. Again, use questions such as: “Would you like to receive God’s gift of eternal life?” “Would you like to call on Jesus Christ to save you?” “Do you want to take the next step to believe on Jesus Christ?” If they respond with a “yes,” then guide them on how to call on Jesus Christ.

Communicating the Gospel through Conversations

Wed, 08 Oct 2025 11:24:02 GMT

Engaging through conversations is a biblical method.

Paul’s main method of witnessing in Athens and Ephesus was through “ disputing ” (Acts 17:17, 19:9). This word does not mean that Paul argued or got into heated debates with people. It is not a confrontational word.

Disputing literally means “to speak separate.” It means to speak back and forth or to converse with. It is where we get our English word “dialogue” from. It simply means Paul had conversations in which he engaged people in for the purpose of sharing the Gospel.

When you examine the Scriptures, both Paul and Jesus were conversationalists. Jesus’ main method of engaging unbelievers was through conversation. When He wasn’t preaching, the overwhelming majority of His ministry was in conversations in and around daily life. He intentionally did life with people while He shared the truth with them.

Engaging through conversations is an effective method.

There are various methods of communicating the Gospel to other people, and each has its place and effectiveness. There has been a noticeable shift over the years in the effectiveness of the methods.

The book, Faith for Exiles , describes this shift: “In a previous era, we had semblance of success with mass-producing disciples. We had big rallies and crusades and whiz-bang events, and many young people came forward to pledge their lives to Christ. But as the growing dropout rate starkly reveals, that approach alone doesn’t seem to work here and now as well as it did there and then. In digital Babylon, faithful, resilient disciples are hand-crafted one life at a time.”

One way that stands out in our current culture is a more conversational one-on-one approach. What’s so effective about utilizing conversations? True conversations are a two-way street. One where we share well and also listen well. Conversations build relationships and tear down walls. Conversations should be a space where both people can share openly and honestly. Building relationships and utilizing conversations involve follow-up. Conversations are not about winning any argument of whose belief or religion is right. This misses the entire point of the gospel completely. The goal of our conversation is to help people know what they believe and why they believe it.

Regarding conversations in witnessing, research from the book, Faith for the Curious , reveals that, “People of no faith are more likely to have positive responses to spiritual conversations that are exactly that: a true conversation, one where dialogue (even across differences) is embraced. In these scenarios, stories are shared and questions are asked.” Unbelievers are actually wanting to and looking to engage in conversations about spiritual matters.

The book also describes what spiritually open people want from spiritual conversations. They are hoping to interact with Christians who listen without judgment. This is vital to engaging someone in a spiritual conversation and building a relationship. Seek to find common ground. They want people who are honest about their own doubts. Transparency is key to engaging in authentic conversations. If you are honest, they will be honest. They want people who do not force a conclusion but instead let others draw their own conclusions. Forcing a conclusion is telling people what they should believe. For example, "The Bible says it, so you should believe it." Allowing them to draw their own conclusions is presenting the information in a logical way, answering any questions they might have. This helps them move from what they believe to why they believe it.

Dancing with Sin

jeremy@spirelight.com (Jeremy Goldsborough) — Wed, 19 Mar 2025 15:23:47 GMT

Lust and sin are two words commonly used in Christian communities. But I am willing to bet

that if you went up to anybody on the street, on a college campus, at your local grocery store,

they would be able to talk about lust and sin. This being that there has never been a person to

ever exist, who has not dealt with lust and sin. Whether that is stealing, cheating, inappropriately

looking, rudely speaking, or doing anything against the character of God. So often do people

dance with sin.

Attraction to Sin

In Genesis 19, when Lot and his family are running away from Sodom, Lot’s wife disobeys the Lord and looks behind back at the city. Though she is running away from Sodom, her eyes were set back at a city filled sin. We, so often, can be like Lot’s wife; with our feet directed towards God, running toward Him, away from sin, but with our eyes and our hearts still set on sin. We can be internally dancing with sin, being no different than Lot’s wife.

Implications of Sin

Sin is not a light term, the definition of it being an immoral act against God, ”means that it is going directly against the most perfect, good, just, righteous, Creator of all things. He sets morality up for a purpose, not as a vain set of rules. So, we should listen when God says to do something, otherwise expect there to be consequences. We cannot hide sin, even the smallest of dances with it bleeds into every aspect of our lives. It will affect our relationships, energy, thoughts, and walk with God. The Devil rejoices in the aftermath of sin, how far he can take you away from God. This being the ideas of unbelief, struggle, worry, anxiety. Though the consequences of sin linger, the redemption, new creation, freedom, liberty, and victory found in Christ is forever!

Victory over Sin

Even the simplest dances with sin are dangerous, but in God there is complete victory! Stay on the straight and narrow path, focus on the Way, the Truth, and the Life, that is Jesus Christ. Be in the Word of God, seek to abide in Him and He will abide in you. Think back to Lot’s wife, she might’ve been doing the right things, trying to work her way back to safety, but her heart wasn’t in it. She was dancing with sin. So leave this dance, it doesn’t last. Eternal life is far greater than a fading moment in this world. Have your feet and eyes directed on Him, do not look back. Greater is He that is in you, than He that is in the world.

Trust in the Direction not the Destination

jeremy@spirelight.com (Jeremy Goldsborough) — Mon, 10 Feb 2025 15:13:10 GMT

Many of us build five-year plans, but we forget that where we think we’ll end up may be vastly

different than where the Lord has planned. Our eternal destination is Heaven, but our daily

destination on Earth is uncertain. The only certainty as followers of Christ is the direction of the

Way Who is Jesus.

“By faith Abraham, when he was called to go out into a place which he should after receive for

an inheritance, obeyed; and he went out, not knowing whither he went. By faith he sojourned in

the land of promise, as in a strange country, dwelling in tabernacles with Isaac and Jacob, the

heirs with him of the same promise: For he looked for a city which hath foundations, whose

builder and maker is God.” Hebrews 11:8-10

Abraham stepped out in faith, not knowing the destination, only the direction. He went out and

sojourned because he trusted the God Who called him. Abraham immediately stepped out in pure

faith when God called him to a promised land, when God said He would provide Abraham with

descendants, and when God called Abraham to sacrifice his only son. What would it take for us

today to step out in pure faith? Would we be content with a direction and not a detailed

destination?

Many times, the Lord gave directions for Abraham to follow, without sight of a destination. But

every step Abraham took with God was immediate and out of pure faith. Abraham should have

questioned everything, but he didn’t. And because he didn’t, God provided. We overwhelm

ourselves, we worry, we fall, because we misplace our eyes. Our eyes need to look to nothing

more than each step led by Jesus. Abraham not only sojourned in a strange land, but this land

was of a promise. We are, “heirs with him of the same promise.” Just as Abraham looked for the

city “whose builder and maker is God,” let us stay with the Direction, not the destination, Who is

Christ Jesus!

New Bible Study Series Available

Tue, 15 Oct 2024 20:51:26 GMT

New Bible Study Series Available For Free

You can now get the 4 lesson "But God" study series to use personally or to teach to a group or class. This study examines four key passages the have the powerful transition "But God." Each lesson has a study guide, teacher notes, slides, and a podcast version of the lesson to listen to. You can get this study and others for free here .

The Secret Place

jeremy@spirelight.com (Jeremy Goldsborough) — Mon, 09 Sep 2024 11:00:02 GMT

Life in the secret place is the place to be.

Matthew 6 provides incredible insight into the secret parts of living for God. We are called by Jesus to do alms in secret, pray in secret, fast in secret. We are practically called to do all things in secret for the Lord. When we look at it, this isn’t a list of things to do as much as a command to live in that secret place; whatsoever we do, let us do it sincerely for the Lord and not for the approval of man. When we pray, don’t pray to satisfy the ears of others. When we fast, don’t do so to establish a reputation. When we give, don’t even let your left hand know what your right hand is doing, give from a generous unconditional heart.

The idea of living in this secret place is a sort of finding God in solitude. We must come to a point where we realize that, though we are relational beings, we cannot rely on others but must be firstly fully satisfied by the Lord. Our cups overflow by the fountains of Him. He doesn’t fill us half way and expect us to do the rest, He is our All in all.

It may seem like the answer to loneliness is surrounding us by more people, or even finding that one person, but that thought process will quickly lead to disappointment. It’s a good thing to desire fellowship, but it is a godly thing to live in that secret place fully content with the Lord.

Arguably the most beautiful way we can live our lives is going to God first in every situation. To run to Him with joy as a little child excited to talk to Him. To go to Him with our burdens knowing that only He can comfort us. To seek wisdom in Him alone Who provides.

He is the Creator King, the great I Am, the omnipotent Lamb. Christ our Savior, all powerful, in the form of a precious babe, finishing the work of salvation in sacrificial perfect completion.

God Will Never Let Us Go

jeremy@spirelight.com (Jeremy Goldsborough) — Mon, 02 Sep 2024 11:00:03 GMT

The truth that God abides in believers produces the greatest promise in the world...that God will never let us go!

How great is our God? How much greater than great is He?

There is no word I could speak to capture Who He is because He, simply and infinitely, is uncontainable! In every second I seek to thank Him, to sit and dwell on Who He is, to connect what He does in my life with what He’s promised. It’s all so high above all that I can think and imagine. My God is faithful, my God is true, my God is sovereign, my God is… good.

Because He is good, do not forget what He has told us. Do not forget the protection He’s promised, the comfort He provides, and the commands He’s established. We were rebellious, lost from Him, and He found us. Since that glorious day, He has grown us. Now He calls us to go forth and disciple, sharing His Gospel with the ones who are in the very place we were.

As you live for Him, remind yourself and tell others: Our God will never let us go. The enemy tries to take us from Him, but ultimately your dwelling with Him depends on you. Christ has promised those who remain in Him that He remains in them. This has nothing to do with salvation, our salvation is certain, but this has to do with life.

Do you want your life to be lukewarm? Do you want to devote yourself to God on Sundays and be broken every other day?

When we remain in Christ every moment we will be attacked, we will be tested emotionally and physically, we will be confused in the unknown; but the key is that we have the living God abiding within us. When you have the Lord of all creation within you, filling you with all that you need (remember the difference between what we want and what we need), you immediately are in the safest position you ever could be. We may see the arrows fly past us and be in fear, but that’s all they will do… fly past you. With the living God on your side no weapon formed against you will prosper. With the living God on your side you have all that you need.

Take a Moment to Stop and Breathe

jeremy@spirelight.com (Jeremy Goldsborough) — Mon, 26 Aug 2024 11:45:00 GMT

Life is often so busy and fast that it feels like we cannot catch our breath.

Let your light shine by the Spirit of Christ within you. For we are only human, and we need Him to take over. We need Him to fuel our desires, strengths, emotions. We need Him to guide everything which comes from within. Becoming a new creation doesn’t just happen, it takes a surrendering to the Creator.

I mean why wouldn’t we hand ourselves over? We’ve found that on our own we fail way too often, but with God all things are made possible and there is an eternal peace. Take a look at ourselves... we wonder why it’s so difficult to find the time to do the things we must, while it’s so easy to find the time to do the things we want. We’re able to spend time with our friends when we haven’t called our family in days. We’re able to work the bare minimum when we could make the most of every conversation. We’re able to use our tiredness as an excuse when we could learn more about the Word of God. We’re able to drown in personal worries when we could pray over our brothers and sisters. This world has made it easy to fulfill the lusts of the flesh. While fulfilling the desires of the Lord requires a higher help!

Y’all, just take a moment, stop and breathe . This life is so full. It is beautiful what we have been given, and we choose to waste so much of it. Back down from your pride, give yourself to God, help your neighbors. Feed the hungry, heal the sick, stand with the weak. Be thankful for every breath, every new morning, and go to bed with tears of joy for lives you’re surrounded by.

CFC Bible Certificate Program

Tue, 20 Aug 2024 18:35:24 GMT

Collegians for Christ is offering the opportunity for currently enrolled ECU or Pitt CC students to earn a one year CFC Bible Certificate or a two year CFC Advanced Bible Certificate.

Classes meet in the fall and spring semesters. Three classes will be offered each semester with each class meeting for four weeks. Students will receive a notebook with all the covered content. Each class will only have two short homework assignments to complete. The goal is to help you grow in your biblical knowledge and faith, equip you to know what you believe and why you believe it, and learn how to make an impact as a believer in our culture and your vocation.

To earn the CFC Bible certificate, a student must complete six classes and to earn the Advanced Bible Certificate the student must complete all twelve classes. Students can enroll in the certificate program at the beginning of any semester.

Classes are held each Thursday 3:45-4:45pm at the CFC Campus House Beginning Sept. 5th, 2024

You can get more info on class offerings and how to register here .

The Two Lives of a Christian

jeremy@spirelight.com (Jeremy Goldsborough) — Mon, 19 Aug 2024 13:00:03 GMT

I am so moved to remember the value of life, both the first breath of infants, and the life we receive from Christ. It is in the first life where so much beauty is unraveled from the caring intimate creation of the Father. It is in the second life that we witness such grace and mercy. Grace and mercy which has no greater example than that of the Jesus Christ on the cross. After all, there is no greater love than that which He so faithfully displayed on the cross.

Now because of these two lives, we are never individual nor alone. We have such a duty to connect with others. Our greatest call as Christians is to go and reach the world! We have no need for loneliness, for in Christ we have a great Friend, in the body of believers we have an established family, and in the world we have souls which must be reached!

My prayer for all God’s children is that we never devalue the precious lives around us, and that we are prepared to give all for them… even unto death.

CFC Campus House Opening Aug. 19

Mon, 12 Aug 2024 18:57:25 GMT

The CFC Campus House Opens back up at ECU & Pitt Community College

On August 19th, the CFC Campus House will be back open for the Fall 2024 semester! The daily hours are 9:30am-5:00pm. If you are a current East Carolina University or Pitt Community College student, stop in any time to study, grab a snack or coffee, gather for a time of prayer, meet other students, ask questions,, or attend any of the upcoming events. You can get more info at www.cfccampushouse.org .

College & Career Retreat 2024

Wed, 01 Nov 2023 18:45:57 GMT

Winter College & Career Retreat in Feb. 9-10, 2024

The upcoming College and Career Retreat will be held in Greenville, N.C. on February 9-10, 2024, hosted by People's Baptist Church. This retreat will focus on biblical preaching, relevant breakout sessions for college students and young adults, training sessions for college and campus ministry leaders, a real talk session, fun activities, delicious food, and much more. The cost is $35 per person and the registration deadline is Jan. 28, 2024. There is an early bird discount of $10 if registered by Jan. 1, 2024 . You can get more information and register at www.CFCretreats.com

Brand New Campus Ministry at Clemson University

Tue, 26 Sep 2023 20:40:12 GMT

Weekly Bible Study at Clemson University

We are excited to share about a brand new CFC campus ministry at Clemson University. Meetings will kick off on Oct. 3 at 6pm. You can get more info on the ministry and meeting location at www.cfcclemson.com

New CFC Ministry at University of Arizona

Tue, 05 Sep 2023 18:10:36 GMT

Weekly Bible Study each Thursday at 6:30pm

We are excited about one of our newest CFC ministries at the University of Arizona. The weekly Bible studies will kick-off Sept. 7th meeting each Thursday at 6:30pm in the Harvill building to 210. You can get more info at www.cfctucson.com

Weekly Bible Study - Pitt Community

Tue, 05 Sep 2023 17:57:56 GMT

Weekly Bible Study Wednesdays @ 7pm

Our weekly meetings and events kick-off on August 30th meeting jointly with CFC at East Carolina University in the Main Student Center room 307. Also, check out the CFC Campus House right across the street from the Student Center on Monday-Thursday from 9:30-5pm. It is a place for students to come study and connect with others students in a Christian environment. There will be weekly events hosted at the house. Visitors are always welcome!

CFC Campus House

1011 Anderson Street

Greenville, NC 27858

Weekly Bible Study at East Carolina University

Wed, 16 Aug 2023 19:30:34 GMT

University Ministry at ECU Starts on Aug. 30th

Our weekly meetings and events kick-off on August 30th at ECU in the Main Student Center room 307. Also, check out the CFC Campus House right across the street from the Student Center on Monday-Thursday from 9:30-5pm. It is a place for students to come study and connect with others students in a Christian environment. There will be weekly events hosted at the house. Visitors are always welcome!

CFC Campus House

1011 Anderson Street

Greenville, NC 27858

The Truth about Abortion - New Bible Study Series

austin@cfccampusministry.com (Kyle Austin) — Tue, 23 Aug 2022 19:02:55 GMT

With so much talk about abortion and the Roe vs. Wade decision of the Supreme Court in 2022, we must know the truth about abortion. We have a brand new Bible study series dealing with this relevant topic. It provides a teacher outline, a student study guide, powerpoint slides, and a podcast mp3 of each study all for FREE. You can download each resource and use for your personal study or to teach.

This study dives into the worldview driving abortion and provides both a biblical and logical foundation upon which to understand the abortion issue. It also offers many practical tools to defend the pro-life biblical view and to engage others in meaningful conversations on the issue.

Download the studies here

How do I handle getting hurt by people in the church?

austin@cfccampusministry.com (Kyle Austin) — Wed, 04 Aug 2021 17:52:04 GMT

All too often we hear or experience people who leave the church or the faith because of the hurtful actions of someone in the church. Whether the hurt is verbal, emotional, or whether it goes as far as being physical, people experience hurt in the church.

Have I personally experienced hurt in the church? Yes. I've had people say and do things to me that I did not like that were very hurtful. When I was growing as a young Christian becoming a new member of a church, I decided to move closer to the pastor in order to pay closer attention. As a result, I was told that I was not welcome to sit in that seat because it had been their seat for twenty plus years and I needed to move. If that had been six months earlier, I would have been one of those that left the church because of the actions of somebody else! That has happened to me twice. We also experienced a very big issue that caused deep, deep hurt personally and also in the life of my family. It was years deep and to be honest I wanted to quit. I wanted to walk away. I can say to you that I understand how real and how hard the hurt can be.

Did you know this that Jesus experienced hurt from church members? Jesus was hurt by His disciples who were the first church members. Jesus was betrayed. He was sold out by His church members. He was talked about behind His back. He was lied straight to His face. Think about Judas pretending to be someone that he was not and all the lies he fed Jesus. Jesus was forsaken in His moment of greatest need by all His members. Jesus feels your hurt because He understands the hurt He felt from those closest to Him.

I may not be able to fix your hurt but I want to give you some truths I have learned personally that may help you have a better perspective or to gain a greater understanding on how to deal with the hurt.

Be careful not to place unrealistic expectations on people or the church.

I made this mistake early on. I did not grow up in church. When I became a believer I thought the church was going to be this perfect place. I was away from the world and the treatment I experienced there. I thought the people will act perfect. These are Christians, right? But that's not the case at all. You see, the church is made up of unperfect, messed up people. So they're going to have problems. I made the mistake of placing unrealistic expectations on people to treat me perfect and without any wrong doing but that's just not the case. Why? Because a church is a group of unperfect, messed up people who have voluntarily joined themselves together to carry out the Great Commission. Notice I emphasize "unperfect" and "messed up". We are believers and have been forgiven but we still have a sin nature that hinders us from treating and act perfectly all the time.

A church includes people who are at every stage of growth in their Christian life. You have some that are brand new to the faith. There may be some coming out of a life of addiction and so they're going to have some rough edges. You have some that are mature who have been growing in their faith. They've been a part of a church and they're living out Christ's teachings. You're going have some that could care less about the teachings of Christ. You have some that may be backslidden. With this many messed up people there's a big possibility someone may do or say something to you that will hurt you.

Remember not every person in the church is a Christian.

I know that's a hard one to swallow but Paul taught this. He said there are wolves in sheep's clothing and they desire nothing more than to kill and destroy the church and its members. So there are just some people who don't care a bit about treating you like Jesus teaches and their main objective is to stir up strife. On the flip side of that, there are some amazing believers in churches! I know many of them and am friends with some tremendous families in our church. So in order to experience the amazing ones, you won't have to put up with the crazy ones! That's just the way it is.

Practice forgiveness.

Practice the same forgiveness that you have received from Jesus Christ which was unconditional forgiveness. We all need forgiveness and extra patience. When I say forgiving, it doesn't mean that you have to allow someone to hurt you again or run all over you. That's not the idea of forgiveness. Forgive but be wise and discerning. Don't dare put yourself in harm's way again. Can I say this? Don't get bitter, get better! That's what forgiveness will allow you to do. Forgiveness will allow you to move forward walking through the hurt.

Don't blame God for t he actions of others.

So many times I hear people getting mad at God or making accusations at God for the hurt they have experienced on behalf of someone else. God created us all with a free will. We have the ability to choose and with that comes the ability to harm people or love people. Also, don't blame others in the church for the actions of another. Don't get mad at the entire church for the actions of one or just a few.

You have or will soon hurt someone too.

We are always worried about ourselves and someone hurting us. We must remember that we're unperfect and messed up too. So at some point you have or will hurt someone. Don't hold others to a higher standard than yourself!

You are responsible for you not them.

God is not going to accept my excuses nor is He going to accept your excuses for not worshiping and serving Him in the context of a local church because of the actions of another. He tells us in Romans 14:10, "But why dost thou judge thy brother? or why dost thou set at nought thy brother? for we shall all stand before the judgment seat of Christ. For it is written, As I live, saith the Lord, every knee shall bow to me, and every tongue shall confess to God. So then every one of us shall give account of himself to God." We are not responsible for the actions of others, We are responsible for our own actions. We can stand and give God every single excuse for not being a part of a church but He is not gonna accept those excuses because we're responsible ourselves.

I understand you may be deeply hurt right now at this very moment or you may have been hurt at a very recent time. I don't minimize it one bit. But can I say this, you can work through the hurt and you can grow through this. Pray and seek God's help for forgiveness. That's where it begins. It's forgiving that person, that party, or that family. Then, pray and seek God for clarity and understanding in the matter. God can and will help you through the hurt that you've experienced in your life.

CFC Leadership Resource

austin@cfccampusministry.com (Kyle Austin) — Thu, 15 Jul 2021 13:50:26 GMT

We are excited about the brand new CFC Leadership Resources geared towards everything related to campus ministry, college ministry, and young adult ministry. Whether you are already involved or are thinking about starting a ministry, this resource is meant to help you in your journey to start and grow an effective ministry. The first episode is now available and features our special guest, Joel Norris, who is the young adult director at Franklin Road Baptist & the CFC campus minister at Middle TN State. He shares extremely helpful insight from his experience as God is growing a thriving ministry at Franklin Road Baptist Church. You will not want to miss this episode!

You can find new conversations and resources every other week via podcast or watch the videos on our YouTube channel . We pray this resource will be an encouragement and help to you as we journey together in reaching young adults for Christ.

Subscribe to the podcast here .

Subscribe to the YouTube channel here .

Why are so many college students rejecting their faith?

austin@cfccampusministry.com (Kyle Austin) — Mon, 10 May 2021 12:25:21 GMT

Why are so many college students rejecting their faith? Research has revealed over the past few years this: anywhere from 52 all the way up to 63% of freshmen who identify as a born-again believer after 4 years of college will completely reject their faith. This is staggering and alarming! What is going on? Why is this happening? We can look at various reasons, but I believe the biggest one is this. They are not prepared for the opposition to their faith they will encounter on the college campus.

Professor Richard Rrorty, who worked at Princeton, University of Virginia, and Stanford had this to say,

“When we American college teachers encounter Christians we do our best to convince these students of the benefit of secularization. Rather, I think those students are lucky to find themselves under the benevolent teaching of people like me and to have escaped the grip of their frightening, vicious, dangerous parents.”

Notice the word there, "convince." They are intentional about trying to convert young people from their Christian beliefs over to the religion or the idea of a secular worldview or humanism. And it goes on to say that parents who would bring up their children with a Christian worldview are frightening, vicious, and dangerous ! Now this is just one of many voices or teachers that would have this perspective and this agenda on a college campus. So when people like this professor in leadership positions of higher education purposefully try to tear down a student's faith it is no wonder why so many young people are rejecting their faith at college.

David Kinnaman, who is the president of the Barna Group, in one of their recent books evaluating and looking at why some young people kept the faith and why others rejected it had this to say,

"We believe many parents, educators, pastors, and other leaders are trying to prepare young Christians for Jerusalem. To keep them safe and well protected for a world they no longer live in.”

So the idea is they are protecting them or preparing them to live in Jerusalem, when in fact they live in the culture of Babylon. And so they're unprepared once they step outside of that Christian bubble to counteract or to deal with what they are experiencing in Babylon.

So what are you and I as Christians going to do to counteract this? We must work intentionally to prepare young adults for the opposition they will encounter on the college campus! A professor at Yale conducted research years ago trying to test the theory of why people come to embrace the ideas they find compelling. So he tested six strategies on how they would resist opposition to those ideas so they can hold on to them. Out of the six, the least effective strategy is that of only giving a person the truth and repeating that truth over and over again. It was less effective than a person not being prepared for the opposition at all. Think of that!

So the most effective strategy was this:

Teach them the truth.
Expose them to the lies that people will use to deceive them.
Equip them to refute those lies.
Prepare them with the thinking skills necessary to continue resisting the lies.

So just to teach them the truth is not enough! When you have people in higher education giving students ten reasons why not to believe and you and I are supplying only one reason to believe it is no wonder that this many young people are rejecting their faith in college. The good news is there is a solution! But you and I as Christians and the church must get busy equipping and preparing young people for the culture that they live in.

What is a stake? It is the hearts and minds of our children and therefore the future of the church and our country!

What Is God Doing About Evil & Suffering?

austin@cfccampusministry.com (Kyle Austin) — Tue, 04 Aug 2020 18:43:11 GMT

What is God's answer to all the evil and suffering in our world today?

1. There is coming a day when God will judge people for the evil they have committed and the suffering they have caused.

We must remember that j ustice delayed does not mean that justice is denied. God is delaying justice out of love and compassion because people are still coming to him for salvation. There is coming a day when everyone will give an account for their life before a holy and just God.

II Peter 3:9-10 says,

"The Lord is not slack concerning his promise, as some men count slackness; but is longsuffering to us-ward, not willing that any should perish, but that all should come to repentance. But the day of the Lord will come as a thief in the night; in the which the heavens shall pass away with a great noise, and the elements shall melt with fervent heat, the earth also and the works that are therein shall be burned up."

2. Jesus is the supreme example of what God is doing about evil.

God left His place and came right down to this earth to face and experience all the evil and suffering you and I face. Peter Kreeft, author of Making Sense out of Suffering said is best, “He himself entered into all the agony, he himself bore all the pain of this world, and that’s unimaginable and shattering and even more impressive than the divine power of creating the world in the first place. Just imagine every single pain in the history of the world, all rolled together into a ball, eaten by God, digested, fully tasted, eternally. How could you not love this being that went the extra mile, who practiced more than he preached, who entered into our world, who suffers our pains, who offers himself in the midst of our sorrows? What more could he do?”

So, What is God doing about Evil and Suffering?

God gave His only son, Jesus Christ, as a remedy to the evil & suffering.

John 3:16 says,

"For God so loved the world, that he gave his only begotten Son, that whosoever believeth in him should not perish, but have everlasting life. For God sent not his Son into the world to condemn the world; but that the world through him might be saved. He that believeth on him is not condemned: but he that believeth not is condemned already, because he hath not believed in the name of the only begotten Son of God."

The next question that needs to be asked is, W hat have you done with Jesus Christ? God is not willing that any should perish so He provided a remedy. Perish means to die and spend an eternity in Hell. Why would this happen to you? Romans 6:23 says, "For the wages of sin is death. " It is the required payment for your sin or what you owe for breaking God's law. Thankfully God does not leave us there as Romans 6:23 goes on to say, "but the gift of God is eternal life through Jesus Christ our Lord." You can receive this remedy by believing on Jesus Christ! Will you take God’s remedy? You can c all upon him to save you right now. Romans 10:13 says, "For whosoever calls upon the name of the Lord shall be saved."

You can say something like this:

Dear Lord Jesus, I know that I have broken your law and am a sinner. I deserve to die and spend an eternity in the place called Hell. I believe that you died and rose again for me, and I am calling out to you now to save me from my sin. I ask you to forgive me for my sins and come into my life. Help me now to live for you. Amen.

If you called upon Jesus Christ to save you, please let us know about your decision by filling in this quick form which can be left anonymous. We want to pray for you and are happy to provide resources to help you grow in your relationship and faith if you would like.

Why Does God Not Stop Evil & Suffering?

austin@cfccampusministry.com (Kyle Austin) — Mon, 20 Jul 2020 15:33:20 GMT

1. Removing evil removes man’s freedom .

Think with me just for a moment. Try to take God’s place and create a better world in which you stop all suffering but in doing so you must think completely through each choice and thus the consequences of everything you do. Each time you use force to remove evil you are removing man’s freedom. To prevent all evil and suffering would be to remove all freedom. Now you have reduced humans to mere robots who have lost the ability to love.

2. There is the potential for good to come from evil & suffering.

The life of Joseph is a perfect example of how God can bring good from evil and suffering. He was severely mistreated and the evil against him was undesired and unjust. Jospeh would say to the very ones who committed the evil acts against him, "But as for you, ye thought evil against me; but God meant it unto good, to bring to pass, as it is this day, to save much people alive." (Genesis. 50:20) One writer said, “ all suffering contains at least the opportunity for good but not everyone actualizes that potential .”

How could anything good come out of evil and suffering?

Suffering tests and strengthens faith. Suffering doesn’t destroy faith, it refines it. Only by testing is real faith discovered.
Suffering of the cross produced eternal salvation through Jesus Christ. Who would have thought that through the false accusations, a rigged trial, beaten to the point of death, being unjustly hung on a cross to die, and the tremendous suffering emotionally and physically could have produced anything good. The disciples of Jesus sure could not see it at first but God brought about the absolute greatest from the absolute worse, eternal salvation!
Suffering brings repentance. Pain and suffering are the means God uses to motivate people to surrender to Him and seek Jesus Christ for salvation. CS Lewis said, “God whispers to us in our pleasures, speaks in our conscience, but shouts in our pains. It is his megaphone to rouse a deaf world.”

3. Suffering and evil are compatible with God’s love when it is used to bring about a better good.

This occurs in the medical field everyday. The surgeon must inflict more pain and suffering in order to bring about healing. Here is an illustration. I broke my hip in an ATV accident and walked around on it for five days. My knee was the only area of my body that hurt a little. I finally went to the hospital because I started dragging my leg. Here the x-ray revealed the break. I was rushed in for surgery and when I woke up the pain was absolutely excruciating! I went in with only a sore knee and after the surgery I was in intense pain for a couple of days. The surgeon had to inflict more pain to bring about a better good which was me being able to walk on that leg for life. Another illustration to consider is how a doctor uses chemotherapy which can cause severe sickness and suffering in order to heal the cancer.

It may be that we need to adjust our view. Rather than asking God, “Get me out of this suffering”, we need to be asking “God what can I get out of this suffering.”

Where Does Evil & Suffering Come From?

austin@cfccampusministry.com (Kyle Austin) — Tue, 07 Jul 2020 12:48:35 GMT

The severity and depth of suffering that we see and experience all around us generates serious questions about life and God. One probing question is, “How can evil and suffering exist with a loving God?” This is a question that many people have asked and struggled with whether believer or unbeliever. We will begin to answer this question through our next few posts.

Lets begin by stating a few key truths. We know that God exists, God is love, God is all good, God is all powerful, and God is all knowing. We also know that evil and suffering exist. In oder to discover where evil and suffering came from, we must go back to the beginning.

Genesis 1:31 says,

And God saw every thing that he had made, and, behold, it was very good.

And the evening and the morning were the sixth day.

In the beginning, God’s creation is morally good without sinful corruption. God placed Adam & Eve in this perfect world without sin, evil, and suffering. If that is the case then where did evil and suffering come form?

1. God created the possibility of evil .

In Genesis 2:16-17, God gave Adam & Eve clear instructions to enjoy everything in the garden except for one tree which was forbidden. God clearly gave the consequences for each choice. For obedience - physical immortality. For disobedience - physical death. Up to this point, man was neither holy nor sinful but innocent. Man cannot be holy or sinful without the exercise of his will which was tested at this moment in time by God’s law. Now Adam and Eve have to choose what they will do.

2. Man produced evil’s potential.

The source of evil is not God but man’s freedom to choose or exercise his free-will. Adam & Eve exercised their free-will and chose to disobey God’s one command.

Genesis 3:6-8 says,

And when the woman saw that the tree was good for food, and that it was pleasant to the eyes, and a tree to be desired to make one wise, she took of the fruit thereof, and did eat, and gave also unto her husband with her; and he did eat. And the eyes of them both were opened, and they knew that they were naked; and they sewed fig leaves together, and made themselves aprons. And they heard the voice of the LORD God walking in the garden in the cool of the day: and Adam and his wife hid themselves from the presence of the LORD God amongst the trees of the garden.

What was the result of this decision? This sin or breaking of God’s law produced all the evil, suffering, and death you and I experience.. It moved from potential to actuality.

Romans 5:12 says,

Wherefore, as by one man sin entered into the world, and death by sin; and so death passed upon all men,

for that all have sinned:

3. Free-will allows man to choose evil over God with suffering being the result.

We may be tempted to say, “Well God could have created a world without evil and suffering.” He did! But humans messed it up. We must remember that creating a world where there is free-will and no possibility of sin or evil is a self contradiction. You cannot have both. God created man with a free-will to love or hate Him, to obey or disobey His law.

Navigating a New Normal on Campus this Fall.

austin@cfccampusministry.com (Kyle Austin) — Tue, 23 Jun 2020 14:22:21 GMT

There is still much up in the air about the fall semester, but we do know that it is going to be much different than the norm. As a returning student or an incoming freshman, how do you navigate this new normal on campus?

Here are a few thoughts to consider:

1. Practice extreme patience.

It does not mean it will be easy! Ask God to help you each and every day to practice patience with people and situations you will encounter. Patience is one of the key indicators of a follower of Jesus Christ. Allow your patience in dealing with the circumstances around you to be a testimony to others of your relationship with Jesus Christ. Exercising patience actually produces hope in our lives. Think of that!

"And not only so, but we glory in tribulations also: knowing that tribulation worketh patience; And patience, experience; and experience, hope: And hope maketh not ashamed; because the love of God is shed abroad in our hearts by the Holy Ghost which is given unto us." Romans 5:3-5

"Knowing this, that the trying of your faith worketh patience.

But let patience have her perfect work, that ye may be perfect and entire, wanting nothing." James 1:3-4

2. Remember everyone else around you is experiencing the same new normal.

You are not alone in what you are experiencing. Millions of students across the country are walking through the same issues as you on a daily basis.

3. Remember the main purpose why your are there.

While you want your college life to be perfect and exactly like what you had expected, you must remember the main purpose is to get an education and degree. This is a very important 4-8 years of your life but, it is just that, a small window in the bigger picture of your entire life.

4. Remember that God is still in control.

God has not taken His hands off of the wheel. He sees and hears everything that is going on in your life and He cares deeply!

"And the LORD said, I have surely seen the affliction of my people which are in Egypt,

and have heard their cry by reason of their taskmasters; for I know their sorrows;" Exodus 3:7

5. Seize this unique moment to find creative ways to share Jesus Christ with others.

This may be a time for you to shine! Seek creative ways that you can be an encouragement to others. They will definitely need it! This may be a unique time that they are more open to Jesus Christ and you might be the one to reveal His love and grace to them. Do not look at the circumstance as all negative but rather seek ways to produce positive through these unique circumstances.

Journey with us in the latest Bible study - Spiritual Gardening

Thu, 28 May 2020 14:23:53 GMT

We are sitting in class with Jesus Christ as instructor. He is using the analogy of gardening as a platform to teach us more in-depth spiritual truths about sharing the truth with others. Download the free study guides or listen to the podcast here .

Praying for Our Seniors

Mon, 18 May 2020 18:38:04 GMT

Praying for the class of 2020!

The students of the class of 2020 have experienced a final semester that they neither planned for nor ever expected to have. We sense the heartache that the students are facing by not having the typical ceremony to celebrate the hard work and effort they put in to receive their diploma. Our thoughts and prayers go out to each one of you as you celebrate this monumental step in your life.

Upcoming Fall College & Career Singles Retreat

Tue, 14 Apr 2020 13:40:24 GMT

Fall Retreat in Ann Arbor, Michigan

Mark your calendars and join us for a fall college & career singles retreat on October 30-31, 2020 in Ann Arbor, Michigan. For more details or to register online click here.

Our Brand New Bible Study Series is Now Available

jeremy@spirelight.com (Jeremy Goldsborough) — Wed, 01 Apr 2020 18:21:43 GMT

Who am I?

Our latest Bible study series is now available. Journey with us each week as we seek to answer the questions of: “Who am I?”, “Why am I here?”, and “What is my purpose?” You can download the study guide for each study and/or listen to the podcast here .

Free Bible Study Resources Available During COVID-19

jeremy@spirelight.com (Jeremy Goldsborough) — Tue, 31 Mar 2020 17:40:04 GMT

Utilize the Current Circumstances to Grow

We are offering FREE Bible study series during this time. You can download the study guides and/or the corresponding podcast for each lesson. There are many series to choose from! find them here .

With Universities Closing...

austin@cfccampusministry.com (Kyle Austin) — Thu, 19 Mar 2020 19:41:55 GMT

Adapting to the changes invoked by COVID-19

We are discovering that most schools are transitioning to virtual classes requiring students to leave campus through the remainder of the semester. This is definitely causing an abrupt halting in on-campus meetings and outreach. Though heartbreaking, we are trusting God to use these events to awaken young people to their need for Jesus Christ. May God help us to seize this unique moment in history.

Constraints tend to bring out awesome creativity! Some groups are attempting to continue meeting off campus with those students still living in town. Others are running into the fact that most students are gone leaving little option to meet.

Here are a few ideas to continue interacting with your students and conduct ministry online.

Utilize Zoom which is a FREE virtual meeting platform to hold bible studies, meetings, etc.
You can record an audio or video file of a bible study or meeting which we can upload directly to your CFC group's webpage during this time.
Utilize the tools of social media.
Stay connected via calls and text with your students to encourage during this trying time.

Would you take a quick moment to help?

Tue, 28 Jan 2020 14:49:52 GMT

You can be a tremendous help as we continue to build effective resources.

You input is extremely valuable. Would you consider taking a moment to fill out a quick form answering three questions that will help us continue building resources for you.

The form can be found here:

New Ministry at Middle TN State

austin@cfccampusministry.com (Kyle Austin) — Sat, 09 Nov 2019 21:20:28 GMT

Brand new CFC Ministry at MTSU

We are excited to announce our latest CFC ministry kicking off for the fall 2019 semester at Middle TN State! You can get more info and meeting times at CFCmtsu.com

Resource Spotlight

austin@cfccampusministry.com (Kyle Austin) — Thu, 03 Oct 2019 16:18:20 GMT

A Positive Perspective on Millennials and Gen Z!

With all the negative stats and talk about the loss of 18-29 year olds in the church, here are some encouraging thoughts on those who remained plugged into the church. Through all the excellent research that Barna Group has conducted, this book brings to light what makes young people remain in the church. I highly recommend anyone working in college/singles ministry to grab a copy and dig into it. This book provides valuable insight into the why but also offers extremely practical ideas on keeping these young people plugged in, helping them grow in their relationship with Jesus, and in turn developing more young people to get plugged into the church and grow. You can grab a copy at Christianbook.com or Amazon

Getting Up Close & Personal

austin@cfccampusministry.com (Kyle Austin) — Tue, 01 Oct 2019 17:49:30 GMT

How close are we willing to get to people?

There is just no way around it. Jesus Christ commanded His followers to go to all people and share the Gospel (the fact that Jesus died, was buried, but arose from the dead) with each person. No beleiver is excluded based on any circumstances. In order to fulfill this, we have to get up close and personal with people.

We find Philip in Acts 8:26-40 fulfilling Jesus' last command as a government official is being escorted back to Ethiopia. Philip sees this man and the Bible says, "Then the Spirit said unto Philip, Go near , and join thyself to this chariot." Philip gets up close and personal with this man and seizes the opportunity. This man has questions and says how can he understand "except some man should guide me." Philip answers his questions and shares who Jesus Christ is. The eunuch believes and is baptized!

I wonder how many Ethiopian eunuchs are sitting all around us as we walk across campus. Some we would even feel intimidated to talk with because of their position, appearance, education, etc. Jesus does not discriminate nor are we allowed an excuse! So many young people have legit questions they truly want answered but are waiting for someone willing to get up close and personal with them. Will you and I get up close and personal with those on campus this year?

Our Podcast is Now Available on I-tunes, Google Play, & Spotify

Fri, 20 Sep 2019 19:29:08 GMT

Subscribe to our podcast on these new platforms.

Our Podcast is now available on I-tunes, Google Play, and Spotify. Subscribe today to stay up to date on the latest studies episodes.

New Bible Study Series for Fall Semester

Tue, 17 Sep 2019 14:06:36 GMT

Join us for Our Brand New Bible Study Series

We are beginning our brand new Bible study series discussing the heart searching question, "Why do bad things happen to good people?" You can listen to the weekly podcast and download the study guide each week here . You can also subscribe to our podcast to stay up on the all the latest studies.

Join us at the Loving & Leading Conference Nov.7-9, 2019

austin@cfccampusministry.com (Kyle Austin) — Fri, 06 Sep 2019 13:35:12 GMT

Mark Your Calendar & Plan to Join Us Here

Mark your calendar for the Loving and Leading Conference on November 7-9, 2019 in Milford, Ohio. We are excited about the opportunity to be a part of this year's conference and offer equipping sessions for everything college and singles ministry related.

For more info or to register visit: Lovingandleading.org

Brand New Sports Tracts Now Available

Thu, 05 Sep 2019 17:54:30 GMT

Will You Win or Lose?

Our brand new sports tracts are now available. These have been written specifically for college students and can be customized with your CFC information, school colors, and the team schedule. Currently available for football and basketball. Click here to order

Spiritual CPR

Tue, 03 Sep 2019 15:59:34 GMT

Spiritual CPR is an effective tool to help you pray

I first learned about Spiritual CPR years ago at a conference. I gave it a try and it honestly it helped change my prayer life tremendously. So many times we come to God in prayer first and only with our requests. The "give me, give me, all about me" attitude.

The idea behind Spiritual CPR is to use your Bible during prayer reading and meditating on specific verses for each topic - (Confession, Praise, & Request). Rather than beginning with requests you begin with confession getting your heart right before God. Next is praising God for who He is and what He has already done in your life. After our heart is right and we have rightfully given God praise we are now ready to request. It will amaze you at how many times you get stuck at only confession or praise. Give it a t ry it for a week or two and see what happens to your prayer life.

Below are a few verses to get you started while you pray. Add verses as you go along.

1. Confession

Proverbs 4:23-27
Galatians 5:19-24
I John 2:15-16

II. Praise

Psalm 100

III. Request

Philippians 4:6

New Ministry at North Carolina State University

austin@cfccampusministry.com (Kyle Austin) — Mon, 12 Aug 2019 13:22:17 GMT

We are excited about a brand new ministry kicking off fall 2019

We are so excited about the approval of our latest ministry at North Carolina State University! Their weekly meetings will kick-off very soon. If you are interested or want more information visit their website at CFCraleigh.com

Put Yourself in Their Shoes

Mon, 18 Feb 2019 01:43:54 GMT

Imagine leaving the comfort of friends and family...

Imagine leaving the comfort of home and family to fly 5,000 miles away to a completely new place and culture. You get off the plane and are greeted by a stranger who drives you to the new university and drops you off. You find yourself all alone on this new campus and town. You slowly find your way around and navigate the slight language barrier of those who speak English so fluently. You are far away from home, family, and friends. It is scary and lonely but you are in America to get your education that you have dreamed about.

Who are you? One of 1,094,782 international students who come to America to study. Place yourself in their shoes. How wold you be feeling right now? What would be going through your mind? How would you want those around you to respond and treat you?

The international student population has increased to a record high for the 12th straight year in a row. There are students from all parts of the world walking around next to you on campus from every imaginable background. Do not ignore or overlook these students! Take the time to introduce yourself and be friendly. Offer to help the student with any questions or navigate the campus or town. Ask questions to learn about their family, culture, faith, likes, dislikes, etc. In return share about your family, American culture, idioms, your faith, etc.

We have been told that a very common complaint of students who come to America to study and return back home is they never had the opportunity to be in an American home. Many of these young people really want to discover Americans and what life is all about here. Take the time to invest into these students to make them feel at home while they are so far away from home.

How should you treat these students? The same way you would want to be treated if you were in their shoes?

Listen to Our Newest Podcast Series

Wed, 06 Feb 2019 01:43:47 GMT

New podcast available!

Our newest podcast series, “Are You Bored with God?”, is now available. This series will challenge you to search your heart and your walk with God to see if you are possibly bored in any areas of your Christian life. We will walk through what God says about being bored with Him, reason we can become bored with God, and ways to get out of boredom and enjoy fully all that God has for you. Click here to listen

New Ministry at UNC Charlotte

Thu, 31 Jan 2019 01:43:31 GMT

An exciting announcement!

We are so excited about the approval of our latest ministry at the University of North Carolina at Charlotte. The students and workers are excited about their kick-off meeting on January 29th. If you are interested or want more information visit their website at www.CFCunccharlotte.com

collegiansforchrist-new

God Has Conquered Everything

We as humans get this idea stuck in our minds that the things around us have to keep us captive.

Come Sunday Morning

Oh this life, filled with troubles, traps, trials.

True Salvation!

If you died today, where would you go?

Praise the Lord!

When you think about the Lord, what is He owed?

The Importance of Female Laborers

The Importance of Female Laborers in College Ministry

The Active Life

In following Jesus, we accept a gift unlike any other.

The Importance of Mentorship

What is Mentorship?

What should the mentor expect?

What should the mentee expect?

Take Note.

Go, Make Disciples!

Resources for Teaching and Learning

Bible Studies are always Available!

Getting to Know God

Understanding and Practicing Forgiveness

The Parable of the Two Sons

Learn and Teach!

Engaging an Almost Christian

The importance of never assuming.

The importance of digging deeper to discover.

The importance of being patient.

The importance of pinpointing a decision.

The importance of getting them lost.

The importance of leading them to a point of decision for Jesus.

Engage in confidence!

Identifying an Almost Christian

Suggestions They Might Think.

Statements They Might say.

Signs They Might Display.

Understanding an Almost Christian

The Dangers of Being an Almost Christian.

The Distinctions of Being an Almost Christian.

Avoid Being an Almost Christian.

Creative Ideas for Outreach Tables

What Is the Mission?

How Is this Mission Accomplished?

Outreach Tables

What's On Your Mind?

Exam Gift Bags

Envelopes of Encouragement

Prayer-Box

Give it a try! ﻿

Communicating the Gospel through Scripture

1 John 5:13

Romans 3:23

Romans 5:8 ﻿

Romans 6:23 & Ephesians 2:8-9

Romans 10:13

1 John 5:13

Communicating the Gospel by Being SALT

S tart a conversation

A sk Questions

L isten

T alk about Jesus and other spiritual matters

Communicating the Gospel through Conversations

Engaging through conversations is a biblical method.

Engaging through conversations is an effective method.

Dancing with Sin

Attraction to Sin

Implications of Sin

Victory over Sin

Trust in the Direction not the Destination

New Bible Study Series Available

New Bible Study Series Available For Free

The Secret Place

Life in the secret place is the place to be.

God Will Never Let Us Go

The truth that God abides in believers produces the greatest promise in the world...that God will never let us go!

Take a Moment to Stop and Breathe

Life is often so busy and fast that it feels like we cannot catch our breath.

CFC Bible Certificate Program

The Two Lives of a Christian

Give it a try!

Romans 5:8

Don't blame God for t he actions of others.