The old adage “practice makes perfect” came to mind as we read Cliff & Chris’ story! Enjoy the story of the day Chris exchanged records with Jesus, making him acceptable to God.
“For by one offering He [Jesus] forever made perfect those who are being made holy.”(Hebrews 10:14)
Believe it or not, this amazing event happened during role playing at Victory Baptist in Walhala, SC. Yes! Chris, a guest that evening, was observing Cliff and Pastor Tom as they practiced giving the gospel. Chris began answering the questions. So, Cliff wisely began to direct the questions his way. Chris’ answers were so sincere that Cliff decided to take him to a more private setting where he shared the gospel truths of God’s holiness, justice, love and grace. When Chris saw the Exchange chart, depicting his personal sins on one side and Jesus’ perfect record on the other, he realized the amazing depths of the love of God. Suddenly, Chris threw his arms around Cliff and said, “I want Jesus to get rid of my sins. I’m a bad person because….” He began to list sins. It was a light-bulb moment. The Holy Spirit was doing just what He promised He would do – convict of sin, righteousness and judgment (Jn. 16:8)
As Chris placed his faith in the finished work of Jesus Christ on the cross, he experienced just what it means to be justified – declared righteous. On November 12, 2023 Chris was baptized and continues to grow in Christ through the ministry of Victory Baptist.
What a powerful testament to the transformative power of the gospel! Cliff and Chris’s story beautifully illustrates how a simple act of sharing the gospel in a role-playing scenario led to a life-changing encounter with Jesus for Chris. It’s incredible to see how the truth of God’s love and grace penetrated Chris’s heart, leading him to surrender his life to Christ and experience the freedom of forgiveness and justification.
The imagery of the Exchange chart, with Chris’s sins on one side and Jesus’s perfect record on the other, vividly portrays the essence of salvation through faith in Christ. Chris’s genuine realization of his need for Jesus and his decision to embrace Him as Savior is truly inspiring.
Moreover, the role of the Holy Spirit in convicting Chris of sin and leading him to repentance and faith highlights the supernatural work that takes place in salvation. It’s a beautiful reminder that salvation is not merely a human decision but a divine encounter orchestrated by God Himself.
Chris’s baptism and ongoing growth in Christ serve as a testament to the enduring impact of encountering Jesus and committing one’s life to Him. This story is a powerful encouragement for believers to continue sharing the gospel faithfully, knowing that God can use even the simplest acts of obedience to bring about profound transformation in people’s lives.