I read this story in the latest edition of One Body magazine:
"Dad (Don DeWelt) was holding the audience in the palm of his hand as he told them a fascinating story of how he had met a wealthy man on a flight into Joplin. It seems that this businessman was a dedicated Christian who was anxious to use his resources for the sake of the kingdom.
"The auditorium became as still as a tomb as my father went on to say that this newly discovered friend and brother had made an incredible offer. Dad had been sharing with this brother his own passion for the lost and how he wished he could motivate people to care more about people who needed to know Jesus. Then came the bombshell. This wealthy and now convicted believer said that he would be willing to pay any Christian the sum of $1,000 for every person that they would lead to the Lord during the next twelve months. All they had to do was report in to my dad with the specifics and the money was theirs! As this information was relayed to the audience, the attention level began to reach record levels! In fact, though a very young man at the time, I was even paying attention.
"Try to imagine what happened next as my father followed up by stating that he had simply said to the businessman that he was sure that no one would be interested! His reasoning? He told him that he was certain no real Christian would do for money (I think he said 'filthy lucre') what they would not do on their own for the pure love of the Lord!
"The audience had stopped breathing! Then with a masterful smile, he simply added, 'Now, I just made that whole story up to see if you were listening!' After a split second, the audience broke into laughter, although there were many nervous sidelong glances" (Chris DeWelt, One Body, Fall 2008, Volume 25, Number 4, page 21, "Don DeWelt and Motivation to Reach the Lost").
"For Christ's love compels us..." (2 Corinthians 5:14).
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6 comments:
It's all about the money, isn't it? Even in the church.
I'm a little concerned that I would starve if it were all about the money. I have rarely--if ever--been the sole person involved in someone coming to Christ. Thanks for the comment, Christy!
I know a few people who'd be rich. :)
They are special people. Thanks for the comment, Wes!
Very good story that exposes hearts and minds. I wonder if the motivation of money is more powerful than love for some.
I have often marvelled at the efforts I see Christians put into to multi-level marketing business. They don't seem to have the same zeal to preach Christ.
Very good points, Mike! Thanks for the comment.
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