No One Is Beyond the Reach of God | Heaven or Hell

Feeling a bit disconnected in your walk Feeling a bit disconnected in your walk with Christ? Well, Pastor Greg Lori has with Christ? Well, Pastor Greg Lori has with Christ? Well, Pastor Greg Lori has a great new book called What Every a great new book called What Every a great new book called What Every Growing Christian Needs to Know that'll Growing Christian Needs to Know that'll Growing Christian Needs to Know that'll help. Let's say you're feeling lethargic help. Let's say you're feeling lethargic help. Let's say you're feeling lethargic and tired. You know, if you have a diet and tired. You know, if you have a diet and tired. You know, if you have a diet of social media and you don't take time of social media and you don't take time of social media and you don't take time for the word of God, this is going to for the word of God, this is going to for the word of God, this is going to have a damaging effect. So, this is just have a damaging effect. So, this is just have a damaging effect. So, this is just one of the things we talk about in this one of the things we talk about in this one of the things we talk about in this new book called What Every Growing new book called What Every Growing new book called What Every Growing Christian Needs to Know, available at Christian Needs to Know, available at Christian Needs to Know, available at harvest.org. org. harvest.org. org. harvest.org. org. Is Christianity just another religion? Is Christianity just another religion? Is Christianity just another religion? Pastor Greg Lorie says no. He explains a Pastor Greg Lorie says no. He explains a Pastor Greg Lorie says no. He explains a key difference between Christianity and key difference between Christianity and key difference between Christianity and other religions of the world. If you other religions of the world. If you other religions of the world. If you were to sum up religion in one word, it were to sum up religion in one word, it were to sum up religion in one word, it would be the word do. Do this and you'll would be the word do. Do this and you'll would be the word do. Do this and you'll reach Nirvana. Do this other thing and reach Nirvana. Do this other thing and reach Nirvana. Do this other thing and you might get to heaven. If you were to you might get to heaven. If you were to you might get to heaven. If you were to sum up Christianity in one word, it sum up Christianity in one word, it sum up Christianity in one word, it would be the word done. It's done. It's would be the word done. It's done. It's would be the word done. It's done. It's finished. It's completely because of the finished. It's completely because of the finished. It's completely because of the death of Christ on the cross.

This is the day This is the day when I begin. In spite of the fact that when I begin. In spite of the fact that when I begin. In spite of the fact that eternal life is a free gift from God, eternal life is a free gift from God, eternal life is a free gift from God, paid for by Jesus' death at Calvary, paid for by Jesus' death at Calvary, paid for by Jesus' death at Calvary, some accept that gift and some don't. some accept that gift and some don't. some accept that gift and some don't. That's startling to believers. Heaven or That's startling to believers. Heaven or That's startling to believers. Heaven or hell, take your pick. Yeah, I just don't hell, take your pick. Yeah, I just don't hell, take your pick. Yeah, I just don't think heaven's the right fit for me. think heaven's the right fit for me. think heaven's the right fit for me. Well, today on A New Beginning, we'll Well, today on A New Beginning, we'll Well, today on A New Beginning, we'll take a look at that choice and how take a look at that choice and how take a look at that choice and how people each make the choices that lead people each make the choices that lead people each make the choices that lead to life or death. Pastor Greg is to life or death. Pastor Greg is to life or death. Pastor Greg is presenting an enlightening series in the presenting an enlightening series in the presenting an enlightening series in the book of Acts called the upside down book of Acts called the upside down book of Acts called the upside down life. This is the day life. This is the day life. This is the day where life begins. where life begins. where life begins. >> I want to look at two men in the Bible >> I want to look at two men in the Bible >> I want to look at two men in the Bible that are placed side by side. Saul of that are placed side by side. Saul of that are placed side by side. Saul of Tarsus and Simon the magician. One had a Tarsus and Simon the magician. One had a Tarsus and Simon the magician. One had a real conversion. The other did not. And real conversion. The other did not. And real conversion. The other did not. And this is a reminder that time will tell this is a reminder that time will tell this is a reminder that time will tell if a person is really a believer. Acts if a person is really a believer. Acts if a person is really a believer. Acts chapter nine, definitely one of my chapter nine, definitely one of my chapter nine, definitely one of my favorite stories in the Bible. Verse favorite stories in the Bible. Verse favorite stories in the Bible. Verse one, Saul was uttering threats with one, Saul was uttering threats with one, Saul was uttering threats with every breath, and he was eager to kill every breath, and he was eager to kill every breath, and he was eager to kill the Lord's followers. So he went to the the Lord's followers. So he went to the the Lord's followers. So he went to the high priest. He requested letters high priest. He requested letters high priest. He requested letters addressed to the synagogues in Damascus, addressed to the synagogues in Damascus, addressed to the synagogues in Damascus, asking for their cooperation and the asking for their cooperation and the asking for their cooperation and the arrest of any followers of the way.

arrest of any followers of the way. arrest of any followers of the way. underlined that phrase, the way he found underlined that phrase, the way he found underlined that phrase, the way he found there. He wanted to bring them both men there. He wanted to bring them both men there. He wanted to bring them both men and women to Jerusalem in chains. This and women to Jerusalem in chains. This and women to Jerusalem in chains. This guy was heartless. As he was approaching guy was heartless. As he was approaching guy was heartless. As he was approaching Damascus on this mission, a light fell Damascus on this mission, a light fell Damascus on this mission, a light fell from heaven and had suddenly shone down from heaven and had suddenly shone down from heaven and had suddenly shone down around him and he fell to the ground and around him and he fell to the ground and around him and he fell to the ground and heard a voice saying, "Saul, Saul, why heard a voice saying, "Saul, Saul, why heard a voice saying, "Saul, Saul, why are you persecuting me?" "Who are you, are you persecuting me?" "Who are you, are you persecuting me?" "Who are you, Lord?" Saul asked. The voice replied, "I Lord?" Saul asked. The voice replied, "I Lord?" Saul asked. The voice replied, "I am Jesus whom you are persecuting. Now am Jesus whom you are persecuting. Now am Jesus whom you are persecuting. Now get up and go into the city, and you'll get up and go into the city, and you'll get up and go into the city, and you'll be told what to do." But the men who be told what to do." But the men who be told what to do." But the men who were with Saul stood speechless, for were with Saul stood speechless, for were with Saul stood speechless, for they heard the sound of someone's voice, they heard the sound of someone's voice, they heard the sound of someone's voice, but saw no one. We'll stop there. Don't but saw no one. We'll stop there. Don't but saw no one. We'll stop there. Don't you love that story? So, here's Saul. you love that story? So, here's Saul. you love that story? So, here's Saul. He's like a wild animal. Verse one says, He's like a wild animal. Verse one says, He's like a wild animal. Verse one says, "He was uttering threats." And this is "He was uttering threats." And this is "He was uttering threats." And this is an interesting phrase. It it means he an interesting phrase. It it means he an interesting phrase. It it means he was ravaging people to destroy them. He was ravaging people to destroy them. He was ravaging people to destroy them. He he was just filled with fury. In fact, he was just filled with fury. In fact, he was just filled with fury. In fact, Paul said in Acts 26:11 when giving his Paul said in Acts 26:11 when giving his Paul said in Acts 26:11 when giving his testimony, a raging fury obsessed him.

testimony, a raging fury obsessed him. testimony, a raging fury obsessed him. And if you were to have told Saul, "Hey And if you were to have told Saul, "Hey And if you were to have told Saul, "Hey buddy, before you get to the end of this buddy, before you get to the end of this buddy, before you get to the end of this trip, you're going to be a Christian." trip, you're going to be a Christian." trip, you're going to be a Christian." He would have laughed in your face. I He would have laughed in your face. I He would have laughed in your face. I love this description of the first love this description of the first love this description of the first century Christians. In verse two, he century Christians. In verse two, he century Christians. In verse two, he requested letters addressed to the requested letters addressed to the requested letters addressed to the synagogues asking for the cooperation in synagogues asking for the cooperation in synagogues asking for the cooperation in the arrest of any followers of the way. the arrest of any followers of the way. the arrest of any followers of the way. Of the way. I mentioned to you before Of the way. I mentioned to you before Of the way. I mentioned to you before that the Christians did not get together that the Christians did not get together that the Christians did not get together and decide to call themselves and decide to call themselves and decide to call themselves Christians. They were called followers Christians. They were called followers Christians. They were called followers of the way. They called themselves of the way. They called themselves of the way. They called themselves followers of the way. No doubt based on followers of the way. No doubt based on followers of the way. No doubt based on the statement of Jesus in John 14:6 the statement of Jesus in John 14:6 the statement of Jesus in John 14:6 where he said what I am the where he said what I am the where he said what I am the >> that's right the way, the truth and the >> that's right the way, the truth and the >> that's right the way, the truth and the life. So they were followers of the way. life. So they were followers of the way. life. So they were followers of the way. They believed that Jesus was the way to They believed that Jesus was the way to They believed that Jesus was the way to God as we believe today. Well, most of God as we believe today. Well, most of God as we believe today. Well, most of us or some of us. How many of you us or some of us. How many of you us or some of us. How many of you believe Jesus is the only way to a believe Jesus is the only way to a believe Jesus is the only way to a relationship with God? Raise your hand.

relationship with God? Raise your hand. relationship with God? Raise your hand. Okay, that's good cuz this is a Okay, that's good cuz this is a Okay, that's good cuz this is a non-negotiable. non-negotiable. non-negotiable. And I bring this up because it's now And I bring this up because it's now And I bring this up because it's now controversial to say that to say that controversial to say that to say that controversial to say that to say that there's only one way to a relationship there's only one way to a relationship there's only one way to a relationship with God and that is through Jesus with God and that is through Jesus with God and that is through Jesus Christ. Some would say, "Well, that Christ. Some would say, "Well, that Christ. Some would say, "Well, that that's that's not right." I read that's that's not right." I read that's that's not right." I read recently that 70% of bornagain recently that 70% of bornagain recently that 70% of bornagain Christians were pulled and they said Christians were pulled and they said Christians were pulled and they said they did not believe that Jesus is the they did not believe that Jesus is the they did not believe that Jesus is the only way to God. My response is, "Are only way to God. My response is, "Are only way to God. My response is, "Are you sure you're a born-again Christian? you sure you're a born-again Christian? you sure you're a born-again Christian? How can you say that?" Because it's so How can you say that?" Because it's so How can you say that?" Because it's so clear in scripture how this is a clear in scripture how this is a clear in scripture how this is a non-negotiable non-negotiable non-negotiable truth. Why do I believe Jesus is the truth. Why do I believe Jesus is the truth. Why do I believe Jesus is the only way to the father? Because Jesus only way to the father? Because Jesus only way to the father? Because Jesus said so. Now, it really comes down to said so. Now, it really comes down to said so. Now, it really comes down to that. Are we going to believe the Bible that. Are we going to believe the Bible that. Are we going to believe the Bible or not? I know it seems very open-minded or not? I know it seems very open-minded or not? I know it seems very open-minded of you, maybe even compassionate of you of you, maybe even compassionate of you of you, maybe even compassionate of you to say, "Well, all roads really lead to to say, "Well, all roads really lead to to say, "Well, all roads really lead to God." And really, when you get down to God." And really, when you get down to God." And really, when you get down to it, all religions really teach the same it, all religions really teach the same it, all religions really teach the same thing, which is your way of saying, "I thing, which is your way of saying, "I thing, which is your way of saying, "I don't know what the heck I'm talking don't know what the heck I'm talking don't know what the heck I'm talking about."

about." about." Because if you take an honest look at Because if you take an honest look at Because if you take an honest look at the great religions of the world, you the great religions of the world, you the great religions of the world, you will see they clearly do not all teach will see they clearly do not all teach will see they clearly do not all teach the same thing. the same thing. the same thing. In fact, if you were to sum up religion In fact, if you were to sum up religion In fact, if you were to sum up religion in one word, it would be the word do. in one word, it would be the word do. in one word, it would be the word do. Do. Do this and you'll find inner peace. Do. Do this and you'll find inner peace. Do. Do this and you'll find inner peace. Do that and you'll reach nirvana. Do Do that and you'll reach nirvana. Do Do that and you'll reach nirvana. Do this other thing and you might get to this other thing and you might get to this other thing and you might get to heaven. If you were to sum up heaven. If you were to sum up heaven. If you were to sum up Christianity in one word, it would be Christianity in one word, it would be Christianity in one word, it would be the word done. It's done. It's finished. the word done. It's done. It's finished. the word done. It's done. It's finished. It's completed because of the death of It's completed because of the death of It's completed because of the death of Christ on the cross. So, you have a choice. You can go with So, you have a choice. You can go with done or you can go with do. Do and do. done or you can go with do. Do and do. done or you can go with do. Do and do. Acts 4:12 says there's salvation and no Acts 4:12 says there's salvation and no Acts 4:12 says there's salvation and no one else. There's no other name under one else. There's no other name under one else. There's no other name under heaven given among men by which we must heaven given among men by which we must heaven given among men by which we must be saved. There were people of the way, be saved. There were people of the way, be saved. There were people of the way, not our way or a better way. They were not our way or a better way. They were not our way or a better way. They were people of the only way. So it's people of the only way. So it's people of the only way. So it's afternoon. The sun's probably shining.

afternoon. The sun's probably shining. afternoon. The sun's probably shining. Saul's on his way to kill Christians. Saul's on his way to kill Christians. Saul's on his way to kill Christians. It's a good day in the mind of Saul of It's a good day in the mind of Saul of It's a good day in the mind of Saul of Tarsus. Verse three, he says, "A light Tarsus. Verse three, he says, "A light Tarsus. Verse three, he says, "A light fell from heaven and shone around him fell from heaven and shone around him fell from heaven and shone around him and he fell to the ground." And the and he fell to the ground." And the and he fell to the ground." And the voice says, "Saul, Saul, why are you voice says, "Saul, Saul, why are you voice says, "Saul, Saul, why are you persecuting me?" I love Saul's response, persecuting me?" I love Saul's response, persecuting me?" I love Saul's response, "Who are you, Lord? Who are you?" And I "Who are you, Lord? Who are you?" And I "Who are you, Lord? Who are you?" And I know that Saul's probably thinking, know that Saul's probably thinking, know that Saul's probably thinking, "Don't say Jesus. "Don't say Jesus. "Don't say Jesus. Don't say Jesus. Who are you, Lord? Don't say Jesus. Who are you, Lord? Don't say Jesus. Who are you, Lord? I am Jesus. That's echo. That's echo. Who you are persecuting? And Saul said, Who you are persecuting? And Saul said, Who you are persecuting? And Saul said, don't. don't. don't. Obscure Homer Simpson reference in case Obscure Homer Simpson reference in case Obscure Homer Simpson reference in case you missed it. He realized that the very you missed it. He realized that the very you missed it. He realized that the very God he thought he was serving, he was in God he thought he was serving, he was in God he thought he was serving, he was in fact opposing. And it's also interesting fact opposing. And it's also interesting fact opposing. And it's also interesting how Jesus says, "Why do you persecute how Jesus says, "Why do you persecute how Jesus says, "Why do you persecute me?" me?" me?" Jesus identifies with his people. When Jesus identifies with his people. When Jesus identifies with his people. When someone raises their hand against us, someone raises their hand against us, someone raises their hand against us, they are in fact raising a hand against they are in fact raising a hand against they are in fact raising a hand against Christ himself. So if you're hurting, I Christ himself. So if you're hurting, I Christ himself. So if you're hurting, I want you to know Jesus knows. He's more want you to know Jesus knows. He's more want you to know Jesus knows. He's more than aware. Fascinating verse, verse 5, than aware. Fascinating verse, verse 5, than aware. Fascinating verse, verse 5, Jesus says, "It's hard for you to kick Jesus says, "It's hard for you to kick Jesus says, "It's hard for you to kick against the goats." Now that's a against the goats." Now that's a against the goats." Now that's a statement that is hard for us to statement that is hard for us to statement that is hard for us to understand. What does that even mean? A understand. What does that even mean? A understand. What does that even mean? A goat was basically a sharpened stick. So goat was basically a sharpened stick. So goat was basically a sharpened stick. So back in the first century, instead of back in the first century, instead of back in the first century, instead of putting the pedal to the metal, you put

putting the pedal to the metal, you put putting the pedal to the metal, you put the goat to the ox. Okay? A goat was a the goat to the ox. Okay? A goat was a the goat to the ox. Okay? A goat was a sharpened stick. You want the ox to go sharpened stick. You want the ox to go sharpened stick. You want the ox to go faster. You want to shift into second faster. You want to shift into second faster. You want to shift into second gear, you give him a poke, right? So gear, you give him a poke, right? So gear, you give him a poke, right? So this is the picture Jesus uses. You're this is the picture Jesus uses. You're this is the picture Jesus uses. You're kicking against the goat. So I'm kicking against the goat. So I'm kicking against the goat. So I'm prompting you to believe. I'm convicting prompting you to believe. I'm convicting prompting you to believe. I'm convicting you. You're fighting with me. You're you. You're fighting with me. You're you. You're fighting with me. You're kicking against that. So what would kicking against that. So what would kicking against that. So what would these goats socalled be? I think the these goats socalled be? I think the these goats socalled be? I think the arguments life and death of Stephen was arguments life and death of Stephen was arguments life and death of Stephen was one of them. The way he died, as I one of them. The way he died, as I one of them. The way he died, as I pointed out, I think the spread of the pointed out, I think the spread of the pointed out, I think the spread of the gospel and the response of the believers gospel and the response of the believers gospel and the response of the believers were goals as well. Saul probably were goals as well. Saul probably were goals as well. Saul probably wondered, "How can these people suffer wondered, "How can these people suffer wondered, "How can these people suffer and die if it's all a lie?" So Saul and die if it's all a lie?" So Saul and die if it's all a lie?" So Saul believes, and we're going to have to put believes, and we're going to have to put believes, and we're going to have to put that in freeze frame, and we'll come to that in freeze frame, and we'll come to that in freeze frame, and we'll come to that later because now we're going to that later because now we're going to that later because now we're going to shift gears and look at the other shift gears and look at the other shift gears and look at the other character in our story. We have one who character in our story. We have one who character in our story. We have one who was converted, Saul of Tarsus. Now we was converted, Saul of Tarsus. Now we was converted, Saul of Tarsus. Now we have another who appears to be converted have another who appears to be converted have another who appears to be converted but in fact he is opposer because things but in fact he is opposer because things but in fact he is opposer because things are not always as they appear. I was are not always as they appear. I was are not always as they appear. I was with Chuck Smith years ago and uh we did with Chuck Smith years ago and uh we did with Chuck Smith years ago and uh we did a TV show together and afterwards we a TV show together and afterwards we a TV show together and afterwards we went into the little back room and they went into the little back room and they went into the little back room and they had a whole bunch of sushi out there. So had a whole bunch of sushi out there. So had a whole bunch of sushi out there. So there was some wasabi. You know what there was some wasabi. You know what there was some wasabi. You know what wasabi is? you. So, you take a little wasabi is? you. So, you take a little wasabi is? you. So, you take a little bit of wasabi, you mix it up in the soy bit of wasabi, you mix it up in the soy bit of wasabi, you mix it up in the soy sauce, and you dip your sushi in the sauce, and you dip your sushi in the sauce, and you dip your sushi in the wasabi, right? Well, so I'm there with wasabi, right? Well, so I'm there with wasabi, right? Well, so I'm there with Chuck Smith. He's looking at all this

Chuck Smith. He's looking at all this Chuck Smith. He's looking at all this food and and he was get he's filling his food and and he was get he's filling his food and and he was get he's filling his plate with sushi. I said, "Wow, Chuck, I plate with sushi. I said, "Wow, Chuck, I plate with sushi. I said, "Wow, Chuck, I didn't know you love sushi." He says, "I didn't know you love sushi." He says, "I didn't know you love sushi." He says, "I love sushi." Great. And then he takes a love sushi." Great. And then he takes a love sushi." Great. And then he takes a big ball of wasabi, a big ball, and he big ball of wasabi, a big ball, and he big ball of wasabi, a big ball, and he pops it in his mouth. I'm like, and he pops it in his mouth. I'm like, and he pops it in his mouth. I'm like, and he turns bright red and tears are starting turns bright red and tears are starting turns bright red and tears are starting to come out of his eyes and he just to come out of his eyes and he just to come out of his eyes and he just stands there and then he finally stands there and then he finally stands there and then he finally swallows it and I said, "Chuck, you're swallows it and I said, "Chuck, you're swallows it and I said, "Chuck, you're not supposed to eat that." And Chuck not supposed to eat that." And Chuck not supposed to eat that." And Chuck says, "I thought it was guacamole." Oh man, it's brutal, but a great story. Oh man, it's brutal, but a great story. Thank you, Pastor Chuck. Things are not always as they appear. Things are not always as they appear. That's certainly the case with Simon. That's certainly the case with Simon. That's certainly the case with Simon. Simon the sorcerer. Pastor Greg Lori will have the second Pastor Greg Lori will have the second half of his message in just a moment. half of his message in just a moment. half of his message in just a moment. You know, I've heard people describe a You know, I've heard people describe a You know, I've heard people describe a trip to Israel as seeing the Bible trip to Israel as seeing the Bible trip to Israel as seeing the Bible actually come to life. Hey everybody, actually come to life. Hey everybody, actually come to life. Hey everybody, Greg Lori and I've been to Israel many Greg Lori and I've been to Israel many Greg Lori and I've been to Israel many times and I've led a lot of tours and I times and I've led a lot of tours and I times and I've led a lot of tours and I have to say that's absolutely true.

have to say that's absolutely true. have to say that's absolutely true. Listen, when you're walking on the same Listen, when you're walking on the same Listen, when you're walking on the same stones that Jesus himself walked on, stones that Jesus himself walked on, stones that Jesus himself walked on, well, that's something that's enriching well, that's something that's enriching well, that's something that's enriching to your faith. It's not just a travel to your faith. It's not just a travel to your faith. It's not just a travel experience. It actually energizes and experience. It actually energizes and experience. It actually energizes and enhances your study of the Bible. Think enhances your study of the Bible. Think enhances your study of the Bible. Think of it this way. It's a vacation with a of it this way. It's a vacation with a of it this way. It's a vacation with a purpose. and we're going to be taking a purpose. and we're going to be taking a purpose. and we're going to be taking a tour of Israel April 6 to 15, 2027. tour of Israel April 6 to 15, 2027. tour of Israel April 6 to 15, 2027. You can find out more at You can find out more at You can find out more at israel.harvest.org. israel.harvest.org. israel.harvest.org. Step right into biblical history. Join Step right into biblical history. Join Step right into biblical history. Join Pastor Greg for a tour of the Holy Land Pastor Greg for a tour of the Holy Land Pastor Greg for a tour of the Holy Land April 6th through 15, 2027. April 6th through 15, 2027. April 6th through 15, 2027. Get details at israel.harvest.org. Well, Pastor Greg has been focusing on Well, Pastor Greg has been focusing on the life of Saul of Tarsus. And now he the life of Saul of Tarsus. And now he the life of Saul of Tarsus. And now he contrasts it with the story of Simon the contrasts it with the story of Simon the contrasts it with the story of Simon the magician or Simon the sorcerer. magician or Simon the sorcerer. magician or Simon the sorcerer. >> Little backdrop on his story before we >> Little backdrop on his story before we >> Little backdrop on his story before we read about it. Philillip was in town and read about it. Philillip was in town and read about it. Philillip was in town and he was praying for people and miracles he was praying for people and miracles he was praying for people and miracles were happening and uh it's a great time.

were happening and uh it's a great time. were happening and uh it's a great time. Enter Simon the sorcerer. Acts chapter 8 Enter Simon the sorcerer. Acts chapter 8 Enter Simon the sorcerer. Acts chapter 8 verse9. We're going back now back to verse9. We're going back now back to verse9. We're going back now back to Acts 8 verse 9. Acts 8 verse 9. Acts 8 verse 9. A man named Simon had been a sorcerer A man named Simon had been a sorcerer A man named Simon had been a sorcerer for many years, amazing the people of for many years, amazing the people of for many years, amazing the people of Samaria and claiming to be someone Samaria and claiming to be someone Samaria and claiming to be someone great. Everyone from the least to the great. Everyone from the least to the great. Everyone from the least to the greatest often spoke of him as the great greatest often spoke of him as the great greatest often spoke of him as the great one, the power of God. They listened one, the power of God. They listened one, the power of God. They listened closely to him because for a long time closely to him because for a long time closely to him because for a long time he astounded them with his magic. But he astounded them with his magic. But he astounded them with his magic. But now the people believed Philip's message now the people believed Philip's message now the people believed Philip's message of the good news concerning the kingdom of the good news concerning the kingdom of the good news concerning the kingdom of God and the name of Jesus Christ. As of God and the name of Jesus Christ. As of God and the name of Jesus Christ. As a result, many men and women were a result, many men and women were a result, many men and women were baptized. Then Simon himself believed baptized. Then Simon himself believed baptized. Then Simon himself believed and was baptized and began following and was baptized and began following and was baptized and began following Philillip wherever he went. And he was Philillip wherever he went. And he was Philillip wherever he went. And he was amazed at the signs and great miracles amazed at the signs and great miracles amazed at the signs and great miracles Philip performed. So at first glance, it Philip performed. So at first glance, it Philip performed. So at first glance, it looks like this guy Simon became a looks like this guy Simon became a looks like this guy Simon became a believer. So, Simon the magician, believer. So, Simon the magician, believer. So, Simon the magician, he was probably steeped in occultism, he was probably steeped in occultism, he was probably steeped in occultism, but he probably had some pretty cool but he probably had some pretty cool but he probably had some pretty cool magic tricks up his sleeve that were magic tricks up his sleeve that were magic tricks up his sleeve that were nothing more than slight of hand and nothing more than slight of hand and nothing more than slight of hand and trickery. We have a professional trickery. We have a professional trickery. We have a professional magician that attends our church over on magician that attends our church over on magician that attends our church over on Maui. His name is Warren. I went to one Maui. His name is Warren. I went to one Maui. His name is Warren. I went to one of his shows. It's incredible. And of his shows. It's incredible. And of his shows. It's incredible. And Warren's a Christian and he uses his Warren's a Christian and he uses his Warren's a Christian and he uses his magic and not it's not literal magic, magic and not it's not literal magic, magic and not it's not literal magic, but he uses illusion to make spiritual but he uses illusion to make spiritual but he uses illusion to make spiritual points. It's very convincing. And I points. It's very convincing. And I points. It's very convincing. And I asked him after I saw his show, tell me asked him after I saw his show, tell me asked him after I saw his show, tell me how you did this. He wouldn't reveal how how you did this. He wouldn't reveal how how you did this. He wouldn't reveal how he did it. And uh but I just tell you

he did it. And uh but I just tell you he did it. And uh but I just tell you this, when someone comes and wants to do this, when someone comes and wants to do this, when someone comes and wants to do a card trick, I hate card tricks. Okay? a card trick, I hate card tricks. Okay? a card trick, I hate card tricks. Okay? Pick a card and just stop. I don't want Pick a card and just stop. I don't want Pick a card and just stop. I don't want to pick a card. Go away with your cards. to pick a card. Go away with your cards. to pick a card. Go away with your cards. Okay? But whatever Simon did, it was Okay? But whatever Simon did, it was Okay? But whatever Simon did, it was very impressive. It was very convincing. very impressive. It was very convincing. very impressive. It was very convincing. So it might have been a combination of So it might have been a combination of So it might have been a combination of trickery, illusion, and devilish power trickery, illusion, and devilish power trickery, illusion, and devilish power on display. But whatever it was, he had on display. But whatever it was, he had on display. But whatever it was, he had the people eating out of his hand. He the people eating out of his hand. He the people eating out of his hand. He was very popular. He was even called the was very popular. He was even called the was very popular. He was even called the great one. You're the great one. Well, great one. You're the great one. Well, great one. You're the great one. Well, he enjoyed that. Well, along comes he enjoyed that. Well, along comes he enjoyed that. Well, along comes Philillip. And Philip wrecks everything. Philillip. And Philip wrecks everything. Philillip. And Philip wrecks everything. And he preaches the gospel. and real And he preaches the gospel. and real And he preaches the gospel. and real power is now on display because there's power is now on display because there's power is now on display because there's no power that can compete with the power no power that can compete with the power no power that can compete with the power of the gospel because it's the power of of the gospel because it's the power of of the gospel because it's the power of God unto salvation. So Simon had no God unto salvation. So Simon had no God unto salvation. So Simon had no magic trick to match this. So we read in magic trick to match this. So we read in magic trick to match this. So we read in verse 13, he believed and was baptized. verse 13, he believed and was baptized. verse 13, he believed and was baptized. Now was he converted? Well, I don't Now was he converted? Well, I don't Now was he converted? Well, I don't know. I kind of tend to doubt it for know. I kind of tend to doubt it for know. I kind of tend to doubt it for this reason because if you drop down to this reason because if you drop down to this reason because if you drop down to verse 20, we see that Peter showed up in verse 20, we see that Peter showed up in verse 20, we see that Peter showed up in town along with John and they were town along with John and they were town along with John and they were performing miracles by the hand of God.

performing miracles by the hand of God. performing miracles by the hand of God. And Simon said, "Listen, I want to buy And Simon said, "Listen, I want to buy And Simon said, "Listen, I want to buy this trick, this thing you guys are this trick, this thing you guys are this trick, this thing you guys are doing. I want this in my repertoire." doing. I want this in my repertoire." doing. I want this in my repertoire." So, how much to buy this ability? Well, So, how much to buy this ability? Well, So, how much to buy this ability? Well, that didn't play well. Peter says in that didn't play well. Peter says in that didn't play well. Peter says in verse 20, "May your money be destroyed verse 20, "May your money be destroyed verse 20, "May your money be destroyed with you for thinking God's gift can be with you for thinking God's gift can be with you for thinking God's gift can be bought. You have no part in this, and bought. You have no part in this, and bought. You have no part in this, and your heart is not right with God. Repent your heart is not right with God. Repent your heart is not right with God. Repent of your wickedness and pray to the Lord. of your wickedness and pray to the Lord. of your wickedness and pray to the Lord. Perhaps he will forgive you of your evil Perhaps he will forgive you of your evil Perhaps he will forgive you of your evil thoughts, for I can see you're full of thoughts, for I can see you're full of thoughts, for I can see you're full of bitter jealousy and held captive by bitter jealousy and held captive by bitter jealousy and held captive by sin." Wow. So, it's a super serious sin." Wow. So, it's a super serious sin." Wow. So, it's a super serious charge that Peter is leveling at Simon charge that Peter is leveling at Simon charge that Peter is leveling at Simon when he says, "May your money be when he says, "May your money be when he says, "May your money be destroyed with you." But wait, it says destroyed with you." But wait, it says destroyed with you." But wait, it says he believed and was baptized. Doesn't he believed and was baptized. Doesn't he believed and was baptized. Doesn't that mean he was a Christian? Not that mean he was a Christian? Not that mean he was a Christian? Not necessarily. It is my belief that he was necessarily. It is my belief that he was necessarily. It is my belief that he was not a believer at all. You know, not a believer at all. You know, not a believer at all. You know, in a technical sense, you could say the in a technical sense, you could say the in a technical sense, you could say the demons believe. And by that, I don't demons believe. And by that, I don't demons believe. And by that, I don't mean that I think they're followers of mean that I think they're followers of mean that I think they're followers of Jesus. They're the very opposite of Jesus. They're the very opposite of Jesus. They're the very opposite of that. But yet, James 2:19 says, "You that. But yet, James 2:19 says, "You that. But yet, James 2:19 says, "You believe there's one God." You're right.

believe there's one God." You're right. believe there's one God." You're right. Even the demons believe that and Even the demons believe that and Even the demons believe that and tremble. Oh foolish man, don't you know tremble. Oh foolish man, don't you know tremble. Oh foolish man, don't you know faith without works is dead. Let's say I faith without works is dead. Let's say I faith without works is dead. Let's say I interviewed a demon. That'd be freaky, interviewed a demon. That'd be freaky, interviewed a demon. That'd be freaky, wouldn't it? Let's say I interviewed wouldn't it? Let's say I interviewed wouldn't it? Let's say I interviewed Lucifer himself, the devil. If I were to Lucifer himself, the devil. If I were to Lucifer himself, the devil. If I were to ask Satan, Satan, let me ask you a ask Satan, Satan, let me ask you a ask Satan, Satan, let me ask you a question. Do you believe that Jesus is question. Do you believe that Jesus is question. Do you believe that Jesus is the son of God? What do you think his the son of God? What do you think his the son of God? What do you think his answer would be? answer would be? answer would be? >> Yes. How do I know that? Because in the >> Yes. How do I know that? Because in the >> Yes. How do I know that? Because in the temptation in the wilderness, he said to temptation in the wilderness, he said to temptation in the wilderness, he said to the Lord, "Since you're the son of God, the Lord, "Since you're the son of God, the Lord, "Since you're the son of God, why don't you turn this rock into a why don't you turn this rock into a why don't you turn this rock into a piece of bread?" He was not questioning piece of bread?" He was not questioning piece of bread?" He was not questioning that. Satan believes Jesus is a son of that. Satan believes Jesus is a son of that. Satan believes Jesus is a son of God. If I were to ask the devil, "Do you God. If I were to ask the devil, "Do you God. If I were to ask the devil, "Do you believe that the Bible is the word of believe that the Bible is the word of believe that the Bible is the word of God?" What do you think his answer would God?" What do you think his answer would God?" What do you think his answer would be? Yes, he knows it. As we already read be? Yes, he knows it. As we already read be? Yes, he knows it. As we already read in that verse, the demons believe and in that verse, the demons believe and in that verse, the demons believe and tremble. That he knows it's true, but tremble. That he knows it's true, but tremble. That he knows it's true, but obviously he's in rebellion against it. obviously he's in rebellion against it. obviously he's in rebellion against it. See, Simon, I think, was faking a See, Simon, I think, was faking a See, Simon, I think, was faking a conversion because it was something he conversion because it was something he conversion because it was something he really wanted. But the Bible leaves the really wanted. But the Bible leaves the really wanted. But the Bible leaves the story open-ended. He was told to repent.

story open-ended. He was told to repent. story open-ended. He was told to repent. Did he repent later? I don't know. Did he repent later? I don't know. Did he repent later? I don't know. Hopefully, he did. But this much is Hopefully, he did. But this much is Hopefully, he did. But this much is true. You can say you're a Christian and true. You can say you're a Christian and true. You can say you're a Christian and not be a Christian. In John 2, we read not be a Christian. In John 2, we read not be a Christian. In John 2, we read that when Jesus was in Jerusalem at the that when Jesus was in Jerusalem at the that when Jesus was in Jerusalem at the Passover, many believed in his name when Passover, many believed in his name when Passover, many believed in his name when they saw the signs which he did. But they saw the signs which he did. But they saw the signs which he did. But then this statement, but Jesus did not then this statement, but Jesus did not then this statement, but Jesus did not commit himself to them, for he knew all commit himself to them, for he knew all commit himself to them, for he knew all men. Wait, what? Many believed in him men. Wait, what? Many believed in him men. Wait, what? Many believed in him when they saw the signs, but Jesus did when they saw the signs, but Jesus did when they saw the signs, but Jesus did not commit himself to them. You could not commit himself to them. You could not commit himself to them. You could translate it this way. Many believed in translate it this way. Many believed in translate it this way. Many believed in him, but he didn't believe in them. him, but he didn't believe in them. him, but he didn't believe in them. That's John 2. Right on the heels of That's John 2. Right on the heels of That's John 2. Right on the heels of that is John 3. Amazing insight. that is John 3. Amazing insight. that is John 3. Amazing insight. And what do we read in John 3? Now there And what do we read in John 3? Now there And what do we read in John 3? Now there was a Pharisee named Nicodemus who came was a Pharisee named Nicodemus who came was a Pharisee named Nicodemus who came to Jesus at night and what happened with to Jesus at night and what happened with to Jesus at night and what happened with him? Well, he believed. We know that him? Well, he believed. We know that him? Well, he believed. We know that later Nicodemus became a believer but he later Nicodemus became a believer but he later Nicodemus became a believer but he had this conversation with Christ. So had this conversation with Christ. So had this conversation with Christ. So that's a contrast. Hey, many appeared to that's a contrast. Hey, many appeared to that's a contrast. Hey, many appeared to be believing but they were not be believing but they were not be believing but they were not believers. But here's this guy, the most believers. But here's this guy, the most believers. But here's this guy, the most unexpected guy, Nicodemus, a leader of unexpected guy, Nicodemus, a leader of unexpected guy, Nicodemus, a leader of the Pharisees who actually did become a the Pharisees who actually did become a the Pharisees who actually did become a believer. We have that same picture in believer. We have that same picture in believer. We have that same picture in this story before us. Here's a man who this story before us. Here's a man who this story before us. Here's a man who did not want to become a believer. The did not want to become a believer. The did not want to become a believer. The last thing he wanted was Jesus. His name last thing he wanted was Jesus. His name last thing he wanted was Jesus. His name was Saul. He became a true Christian.

was Saul. He became a true Christian. was Saul. He became a true Christian. Here's a man that appeared to want to be Here's a man that appeared to want to be Here's a man that appeared to want to be a believer, but he really did not. His a believer, but he really did not. His a believer, but he really did not. His name was Simon. If you're a real name was Simon. If you're a real name was Simon. If you're a real believer, you need to repent of your believer, you need to repent of your believer, you need to repent of your sin. That's what Peter said. He He said, sin. That's what Peter said. He He said, sin. That's what Peter said. He He said, "You need to repent of this." And "You need to repent of this." And "You need to repent of this." And repentance doesn't just mean being repentance doesn't just mean being repentance doesn't just mean being sorry. It means being sorry enough to sorry. It means being sorry enough to sorry. It means being sorry enough to stop. stop. stop. In closing, I wonder if I'm talking to In closing, I wonder if I'm talking to In closing, I wonder if I'm talking to someone that's been kicking against the someone that's been kicking against the someone that's been kicking against the goats. And by that, I mean you're goats. And by that, I mean you're goats. And by that, I mean you're kicking against the Holy Spirit. You're kicking against the Holy Spirit. You're kicking against the Holy Spirit. You're you're resisting the convicting work of you're resisting the convicting work of you're resisting the convicting work of the spirit who's trying to draw you to the spirit who's trying to draw you to the spirit who's trying to draw you to himself. Why? Well, we get this idea himself. Why? Well, we get this idea himself. Why? Well, we get this idea that ah being a Christian such a drag. that ah being a Christian such a drag. that ah being a Christian such a drag. Rules, regulations, absolutes. I want to Rules, regulations, absolutes. I want to Rules, regulations, absolutes. I want to just do what I want to do and go where I just do what I want to do and go where I just do what I want to do and go where I want to go and live the way I want to want to go and live the way I want to want to go and live the way I want to live and hang out with the people I want live and hang out with the people I want live and hang out with the people I want to hang around with. And then you go to hang around with. And then you go to hang around with. And then you go down that path and you see how empty down that path and you see how empty down that path and you see how empty that is. And meanwhile, Jesus is still that is. And meanwhile, Jesus is still that is. And meanwhile, Jesus is still calling you. Did it ever occur to you calling you. Did it ever occur to you calling you. Did it ever occur to you that God's plan for you is far better that God's plan for you is far better that God's plan for you is far better than your plan for yourself?

than your plan for yourself? than your plan for yourself? I love that verse that I quote often, I love that verse that I quote often, I love that verse that I quote often, Jeremiah 29:11. It says, "I know the Jeremiah 29:11. It says, "I know the Jeremiah 29:11. It says, "I know the thoughts that I think toward you, says thoughts that I think toward you, says thoughts that I think toward you, says the Lord. thoughts of peace and not of the Lord. thoughts of peace and not of the Lord. thoughts of peace and not of evil to give you a future and a hope. evil to give you a future and a hope. evil to give you a future and a hope. Reminds me of a story I heard about a a Reminds me of a story I heard about a a Reminds me of a story I heard about a a guy who was being pursued by an attorney guy who was being pursued by an attorney guy who was being pursued by an attorney and this man was certain that that and this man was certain that that and this man was certain that that attorney wanted to serve him with a attorney wanted to serve him with a attorney wanted to serve him with a subpoena. So this guy made it his subpoena. So this guy made it his subpoena. So this guy made it his mission in life to evade the attorney. mission in life to evade the attorney. mission in life to evade the attorney. This went on for 13 years and that This went on for 13 years and that This went on for 13 years and that attorney was never able to make contact attorney was never able to make contact attorney was never able to make contact with this man. Well, the man got very with this man. Well, the man got very with this man. Well, the man got very sick and he was actually dying and he sick and he was actually dying and he sick and he was actually dying and he was in the hospital and lo and behold, was in the hospital and lo and behold, was in the hospital and lo and behold, they wheeled that attorney in right next they wheeled that attorney in right next they wheeled that attorney in right next to him. He was sharing the room with the to him. He was sharing the room with the to him. He was sharing the room with the attorney. The man turned to the attorney attorney. The man turned to the attorney attorney. The man turned to the attorney and said, "Go ahead, serve me the and said, "Go ahead, serve me the and said, "Go ahead, serve me the subpoena. I don't even care now. I'm subpoena. I don't even care now. I'm subpoena. I don't even care now. I'm going to die." The attorney said, going to die." The attorney said, going to die." The attorney said, "Subena, "Subena, "Subena, I have a written document telling you I have a written document telling you I have a written document telling you that you had inherited $45 million." that you had inherited $45 million." that you had inherited $45 million." See, that's us running from God.

See, that's us running from God. See, that's us running from God. Oh, I don't want God's will. God wants Oh, I don't want God's will. God wants Oh, I don't want God's will. God wants to bless you. to bless you. to bless you. God wants to forgive you. God wants to God wants to forgive you. God wants to God wants to forgive you. God wants to guide you. God wants to use you. God guide you. God wants to use you. God guide you. God wants to use you. God wants to put supernatural gifts in your wants to put supernatural gifts in your wants to put supernatural gifts in your life and use you to change the world. life and use you to change the world. life and use you to change the world. What are you running from? What are you What are you running from? What are you What are you running from? What are you afraid of? You should be running to him, afraid of? You should be running to him, afraid of? You should be running to him, not away from him. And you could do that not away from him. And you could do that not away from him. And you could do that right now. There might be somebody that right now. There might be somebody that right now. There might be somebody that is caught in a cycle of addiction. and is caught in a cycle of addiction. and is caught in a cycle of addiction. and you've tried so many times to break you've tried so many times to break you've tried so many times to break free. This can be your moment where free. This can be your moment where free. This can be your moment where everything changes because of Jesus. everything changes because of Jesus. everything changes because of Jesus. Maybe there's somebody here that has Maybe there's somebody here that has Maybe there's somebody here that has been fighting with God and fighting with been fighting with God and fighting with been fighting with God and fighting with Christians and and that, by the way, is Christians and and that, by the way, is Christians and and that, by the way, is a losing proposition. Don't get in a a losing proposition. Don't get in a a losing proposition. Don't get in a fight with God. You're going to so lose, fight with God. You're going to so lose, fight with God. You're going to so lose, right? As it's been said, your arms are right? As it's been said, your arms are right? As it's been said, your arms are too short to box with God. too short to box with God. too short to box with God. Just submit to God. His plan for you is Just submit to God. His plan for you is Just submit to God. His plan for you is good. He's not trying to serve you with good. He's not trying to serve you with good. He's not trying to serve you with a subpoena. a subpoena. a subpoena. He's trying to give you an inheritance.

He's trying to give you an inheritance. He's trying to give you an inheritance. He's trying to bless you. He's trying to He's trying to bless you. He's trying to He's trying to bless you. He's trying to get you on the right course. And maybe get you on the right course. And maybe get you on the right course. And maybe somebody here needs to get on that somebody here needs to get on that somebody here needs to get on that course. Jesus died on the cross for your course. Jesus died on the cross for your course. Jesus died on the cross for your sin. Paid the price for every sin you've sin. Paid the price for every sin you've sin. Paid the price for every sin you've ever committed. And he will forgive you ever committed. And he will forgive you ever committed. And he will forgive you right here, right now, in a moment if right here, right now, in a moment if right here, right now, in a moment if you will turn to him. Not a fake you will turn to him. Not a fake you will turn to him. Not a fake conversion like Simon, a real conversion conversion like Simon, a real conversion conversion like Simon, a real conversion like Saul. Let's all pray. Father, we like Saul. Let's all pray. Father, we like Saul. Let's all pray. Father, we thank you for your word to us. We know thank you for your word to us. We know thank you for your word to us. We know it's true. And I know there are people it's true. And I know there are people it's true. And I know there are people here that need to get right with you. here that need to get right with you. here that need to get right with you. And I'm praying that at this very And I'm praying that at this very And I'm praying that at this very moment, your Holy Spirit will convince moment, your Holy Spirit will convince moment, your Holy Spirit will convince them of their need for Jesus and bring them of their need for Jesus and bring them of their need for Jesus and bring them to yourself. In Jesus name I pray. them to yourself. In Jesus name I pray. them to yourself. In Jesus name I pray. Amen. Pastor Greg Lori with an important Pastor Greg Lori with an important prayer. And if you'd like to make a prayer. And if you'd like to make a prayer. And if you'd like to make a change in your relationship with the change in your relationship with the change in your relationship with the Lord today, Pastor Greg will help you Lord today, Pastor Greg will help you Lord today, Pastor Greg will help you with that in just a moment before this with that in just a moment before this with that in just a moment before this edition of A New Beginning concludes.

edition of A New Beginning concludes. edition of A New Beginning concludes. Are you receiving Pastor Greg's daily Are you receiving Pastor Greg's daily Are you receiving Pastor Greg's daily devotions each day via email? If not, devotions each day via email? If not, devotions each day via email? If not, let's take care of that right now. You let's take care of that right now. You let's take care of that right now. You can sign up today free of charge at can sign up today free of charge at can sign up today free of charge at harvest.org harvest.org harvest.org and you'll receive a daily inspirational and you'll receive a daily inspirational and you'll receive a daily inspirational thought from God's word each day in your thought from God's word each day in your thought from God's word each day in your inbox. Again, go to harvest.org. inbox. Again, go to harvest.org. inbox. Again, go to harvest.org. >> Well, Pastor Greg, you spoke today about >> Well, Pastor Greg, you spoke today about >> Well, Pastor Greg, you spoke today about having a relationship with the Lord. having a relationship with the Lord. having a relationship with the Lord. >> Yeah. >> Yeah. >> Yeah. >> Someone can enter into that kind of >> Someone can enter into that kind of >> Someone can enter into that kind of relationship with God right now, can't relationship with God right now, can't relationship with God right now, can't they? they? they? >> Yeah, they really can. That's the >> Yeah, they really can. That's the >> Yeah, they really can. That's the amazing thing. I think people are amazing thing. I think people are amazing thing. I think people are surprised that it doesn't take years to surprised that it doesn't take years to surprised that it doesn't take years to become a Christian. It doesn't take become a Christian. It doesn't take become a Christian. It doesn't take months. It doesn't take weeks. It months. It doesn't take weeks. It months. It doesn't take weeks. It doesn't take days. It doesn't even take doesn't take days. It doesn't even take doesn't take days. It doesn't even take hours. You can believe on the spot. hours. You can believe on the spot. hours. You can believe on the spot. There's a story in the book of Acts of a There's a story in the book of Acts of a There's a story in the book of Acts of a jailer who cruy mistreated the Apostle jailer who cruy mistreated the Apostle jailer who cruy mistreated the Apostle Paul and also Silas. And there was a Paul and also Silas. And there was a Paul and also Silas. And there was a moment where he saw his need for Jesus moment where he saw his need for Jesus moment where he saw his need for Jesus Christ. And he asked this question, Christ. And he asked this question, Christ. And he asked this question, "What do I need to do to be saved?" Paul "What do I need to do to be saved?" Paul "What do I need to do to be saved?" Paul said, "Believe on the Lord Jesus Christ said, "Believe on the Lord Jesus Christ said, "Believe on the Lord Jesus Christ and you will be saved." And right there, and you will be saved." And right there, and you will be saved." And right there, that man believed. It can happen in that man believed. It can happen in that man believed. It can happen in seconds. Would you like it to happen to seconds. Would you like it to happen to seconds. Would you like it to happen to you? Would you like to have Christ live you? Would you like to have Christ live you? Would you like to have Christ live inside of you? Would you like to know inside of you? Would you like to know inside of you? Would you like to know with assurance that when you die, you with assurance that when you die, you with assurance that when you die, you will go to heaven? I'll tell you what, will go to heaven? I'll tell you what, will go to heaven? I'll tell you what, it can happen right now because God, it can happen right now because God, it can happen right now because God, he's only a prayer away. And I would he's only a prayer away. And I would he's only a prayer away. And I would like to lead you in a prayer where you like to lead you in a prayer where you like to lead you in a prayer where you can ask for his forgiveness. A prayer can ask for his forgiveness. A prayer can ask for his forgiveness. A prayer where you can receive Jesus Christ into where you can receive Jesus Christ into where you can receive Jesus Christ into your life as your savior and lord. So if

your life as your savior and lord. So if your life as your savior and lord. So if you want Christ to come into your life, you want Christ to come into your life, you want Christ to come into your life, if you want him to forgive you of your if you want him to forgive you of your if you want him to forgive you of your sin, if you want a second chance in sin, if you want a second chance in sin, if you want a second chance in life, if you want to go to heaven when life, if you want to go to heaven when life, if you want to go to heaven when you die, stop what you're doing and pray you die, stop what you're doing and pray you die, stop what you're doing and pray this prayer with me. In fact, if you this prayer with me. In fact, if you this prayer with me. In fact, if you like, you could even pray it out loud. like, you could even pray it out loud. like, you could even pray it out loud. As I pray, you pray after me these As I pray, you pray after me these As I pray, you pray after me these words. Lord Jesus, I know I am a sinner words. Lord Jesus, I know I am a sinner words. Lord Jesus, I know I am a sinner and I'm sorry for my sin and I turn from and I'm sorry for my sin and I turn from and I'm sorry for my sin and I turn from it now and I choose to follow you from it now and I choose to follow you from it now and I choose to follow you from this moment forward as savior and lord this moment forward as savior and lord this moment forward as savior and lord as God and friend. Thank you for loving as God and friend. Thank you for loving as God and friend. Thank you for loving me and calling me and forgiving me in me and calling me and forgiving me in me and calling me and forgiving me in Jesus name I pray. Amen. Jesus name I pray. Amen. Jesus name I pray. Amen. >> Amen. >> Amen. >> Amen. And listen, if you have just prayed And listen, if you have just prayed And listen, if you have just prayed those words with Pastor Greg, the Lord those words with Pastor Greg, the Lord those words with Pastor Greg, the Lord has heard you and forgiven you of your has heard you and forgiven you of your has heard you and forgiven you of your sin. The Bible says Jesus is faithful sin. The Bible says Jesus is faithful sin. The Bible says Jesus is faithful and just to forgive us of our sin and and just to forgive us of our sin and and just to forgive us of our sin and cleanse us from all unrighteousness. And cleanse us from all unrighteousness. And cleanse us from all unrighteousness. And we'd like to send you some materials to we'd like to send you some materials to we'd like to send you some materials to help you begin to live this new life.

help you begin to live this new life. help you begin to live this new life. Foremost in this packet of material is Foremost in this packet of material is Foremost in this packet of material is Pastor Greg's New Believers Bible. It's Pastor Greg's New Believers Bible. It's Pastor Greg's New Believers Bible. It's a Bible with scores of helps for those a Bible with scores of helps for those a Bible with scores of helps for those who are new to the faith. Let it help who are new to the faith. Let it help who are new to the faith. Let it help you build a solid foundation for your you build a solid foundation for your you build a solid foundation for your walk with God. Just ask for it and we'll walk with God. Just ask for it and we'll walk with God. Just ask for it and we'll send it to you free of charge if you send it to you free of charge if you send it to you free of charge if you prayed for the first time today with prayed for the first time today with prayed for the first time today with Pastor Greg. Just give us a call anytime Pastor Greg. Just give us a call anytime Pastor Greg. Just give us a call anytime at 1 8008213300. or go online to harvest.org or go online to harvest.org and click the words know God. You know, and click the words know God. You know, and click the words know God. You know, Pastor Greg, we hear from people all the Pastor Greg, we hear from people all the Pastor Greg, we hear from people all the time who tell us how these daily studies time who tell us how these daily studies time who tell us how these daily studies have impacted their lives. have impacted their lives. have impacted their lives. >> So many have found the Lord and been >> So many have found the Lord and been >> So many have found the Lord and been encouraged through this teaching. encouraged through this teaching. encouraged through this teaching. >> That's right. >> That's right. >> That's right. >> And we hope our listeners might pray >> And we hope our listeners might pray >> And we hope our listeners might pray about making an investment so these about making an investment so these about making an investment so these studies can continue. studies can continue. studies can continue. >> Yeah, it's really true, Dave. You know, >> Yeah, it's really true, Dave. You know, >> Yeah, it's really true, Dave. You know, and even a little bit helps. You know, and even a little bit helps. You know, and even a little bit helps. You know, people need to hear the gospel so badly. people need to hear the gospel so badly. people need to hear the gospel so badly. They need to hear the teaching of the They need to hear the teaching of the They need to hear the teaching of the word of God. It changes everything word of God. It changes everything word of God. It changes everything because it changes us. And I'm so because it changes us. And I'm so because it changes us. And I'm so passionate about it and I'm called to do passionate about it and I'm called to do passionate about it and I'm called to do it and I'm thankful for it. But I can't it and I'm thankful for it. But I can't it and I'm thankful for it. But I can't do it alone. So, I'm going to ask folks do it alone. So, I'm going to ask folks do it alone. So, I'm going to ask folks that are listening, if you think more that are listening, if you think more that are listening, if you think more people need to hear the gospel, if you people need to hear the gospel, if you people need to hear the gospel, if you believe more people need to hear the believe more people need to hear the believe more people need to hear the teaching of the word of God, then teaching of the word of God, then teaching of the word of God, then prayerfully consider investing in prayerfully consider investing in prayerfully consider investing in Harvest Ministries and maybe even become Harvest Ministries and maybe even become Harvest Ministries and maybe even become a Harvest partner, which means you're a Harvest partner, which means you're a Harvest partner, which means you're someone who stands with us every month

someone who stands with us every month someone who stands with us every month in your faithful giving and that opens in your faithful giving and that opens in your faithful giving and that opens up a lot of new opportunities for us. up a lot of new opportunities for us. up a lot of new opportunities for us. So, thanks for that. Yeah, that's right. So, thanks for that. Yeah, that's right. So, thanks for that. Yeah, that's right. And we really are thankful for your And we really are thankful for your And we really are thankful for your partnership. You can reach us anytime, partnership. You can reach us anytime, partnership. You can reach us anytime, day or night, at 1 800-821-3300. Or just go online to harvest.org. Or just go online to harvest.org. Well, next time, Pastor Greg points out Well, next time, Pastor Greg points out Well, next time, Pastor Greg points out that we're living in a time when we can that we're living in a time when we can that we're living in a time when we can literally take the gospel to everyone on literally take the gospel to everyone on literally take the gospel to everyone on the planet. We'll talk about doing that. the planet. We'll talk about doing that. the planet. We'll talk about doing that. Join us here on a new beginning with Join us here on a new beginning with Join us here on a new beginning with pastor and Bible teacher Greg Lorie. pastor and Bible teacher Greg Lorie. pastor and Bible teacher Greg Lorie. Day Day Day when life begins.