by Suellen Estes | The Church Awakening, Young Intellectuals
When I first began my search for truth, God began to speak to me in unusual ways. (At least they were unusual for me at the time).
In January, 1981, American hostages were being held in Iran. The Embassy had been overthrown and all the government workers had been held captive for more than a year…a tense situation indeed.
One night, just as my head hit the pillow, a voice said, “What if you could send a coded message to the hostages with a perfect plan of escape?” Of course, I said, “That would be great!” But I have to admit, I was confused by the thought. (more…)
by Suellen Estes | The Church Awakening, Young Intellectuals
As I scan across the internet and see what people are saying, I find certain themes are prevalent. Many – especially young people – are questioning the existence of God. Is He real? Does He speak to us? And what about Jesus? What is He all about? Is He a myth?
These questions are sometimes posed outright, but more often implied in the views which are expressed. Furthermore, peoples’ actions give them away. It’s obvious that the many distractions of our age, whether they are career achievements, sports, or social life, can dull the nudge within a person’s heart. Often it seems that people don’t care.
This saddens me, but doesn’t surprise me. There have been so many mistakes by those of us in “organized Christianity.” Hypocrisy, apathy,and in-fighting sometimes have made us poor role models. But the faults of others don’t have to determine your life. (more…)
by Suellen Estes | The Church Awakening
The year was 1985 and our family was visiting my parents on the southeastern coast of Georgia. As my husband and I drove over the causeway to Sea Island, we were overwhelmed with the beauty – the huge Live Oaks, the windswept trees, the sand dunes, and the array of extraordinary vacation homes. Each home was unique, but each was manicured to perfection – and very expensive. (more…)
by Suellen Estes | The Church Awakening
Do you want more of God? Do you feel convicted to serve him? You may be at a critical juncture in your life. John Estes explores this “middle ground” after the jump.
In looking at the ministry of Jesus, he seemed to have supporters of varying degrees. It’s not hard to see the difference between the masses and his closer, more devoted disciples. For one, the crowds were large masses of people; think upwards of 5000 people. These people wanted to hear the latest sensation and wanted to see Jesus work miracles. When I picture the crowds that came to hear Jesus speak I envision people saying things ranging from “I think I’ve heard of this guy” to “I’m his biggest fan!” I think of these people being like the crowd at a concert. They’ve come when the artist visits their town.
These people knew who Jesus was from afar, but there was no personal connection. They were his supporters, but not his friends. Their commitment was there as long as it was comfortable, but not much more than that.
On the other hand, there were the disciples. These guys had given up their careers (Matthew 4:18-20). They had left family behind (Matthew 4:21-22). They had the desire to do what it took to be close to Jesus. Their relationship with the Christ was so impactful that they knew they would never be able to turn back to the way things were before knowing Him. (more…)
When I first began my search for truth, God began to speak to me in unusual ways. (At least they were unusual for me at the time).
