| Due to the sensitive nature of this ministry, some details, photos and videos have been removed from the below update that was sent to our prayer partners. Prayer Partners: Thank you for your support! Reminder: All of January, I am planning to be back in Pennsylvania and would be blessed to share at your church. Please reply if interested. Neighborhood Youth Ministry – Blessed with Special Guest Speaker: Soccer is hugely popular in Cambodia. Several of our youth dream of playing professional sports. After we studied how Gideon tore down the altar to Baal (Judges 6), “C” stepped up to share testimony. While Cambodians commonly offer sacrifices to appease demons (e.g. avoid curses, gain good luck), witchcraft is commonly practiced in C’s country of Cameroon, Africa. He was told he would never make it in professional sports unless he practiced witchcraft (i.e. bow to the “god of this world,” 2 Cor 4:4; Matt 4:8-10). Refusing to worship Satan, “C” chose to stand for the Lord Jesus Christ. Today, by the Lord’s grace, he is a pro soccer player for a Cambodian team. Praise the Lord! C’s hard-hitting testimony encouraged our youth not to return to idol worship that is so deeply ingrained in Cambodian culture. He urged them to worship only the Lord Jesus Christ. It greatly resonated, especially with the teenage boys. Praise the Lord! “Trust in the Lord with all thine heart; and lean not unto thine own understanding. In all thy ways acknowledge him, and he shall direct thy paths.” Proverbs 3:5-6 Youth Ministry Update – The Lord Spares a Fatherless Boy’s Mother: Recap: Fatherless student “P,” with us from the beginning, is the poorest of our kids. His mother, who struggles with a number of ailments, was not able to eat or sleep due to a vast array of neglected dental issues. Losing weight and in severe pain, the Lord led to step in. He is Father to the fatherless. “A father of the fatherless, and a judge of the widows, is God in his holy habitation.” Psalm 68:5 Especially in a developing country, extensive dental work can be a long, arduous process. From tooth extractions to molds and a partial denture, we were up around 15 dental visits by the end. For example, molds and partial dentures are mailed to capital city Phnom Penh and back, fitted, tweaked… back and forth several times before finished. She is finally able to eat more than yogurt and porridge and looks much healthier. The family is overjoyed. Praise the Lord!! Please pray for salvation for the family. “P”s sisters are only living back home now because one of them recently had a baby. Typically it is just “P” and his mom. This boy needs a mom. Thank you for your support!! “Fear thou not; for I am with thee: be not dismayed; for I am thy God: I will strengthen thee; yea, I will help thee; yea, I will uphold thee with the right hand of my righteousness.” Isaiah 41:10 Youth Ministry – J’s Dad: Another teenager with us from the beginning, “J”s parents have been divorced for years. His dad drinks like I used to drink. Over the years, I have shared the gospel and testimony with him several times, ‘The Lord Jesus can help, but you must repent and truly believe in Him.’ One time, he replied, ‘I know. My son (“J”) tells me that all the time.’ “C” said his son “J” evangelizes him using his Bible. “J” is 15 years old. That is genuine fruit. Praise the Lord! Like my grandma used to say, ‘Some people never look up until they are on their backs.’ I can relate. After being released from the hospital on alcohol related problems, “C” was willing to listen. He prayed to give his life to the Lord Jesus Christ. PRAISE THE LORD! We have been studying the Bible together. He seems to have a hunger for the Word. Please pray that he fights forward up the mountains of Buddhist indoctrination and breaking old life habits to VICTORY IN JESUS! “The sacrifices of God are a broken spirit: a broken and a contrite heart, O God, thou wilt not despise.” Psalm 51:17 Evangelizing the LGBTQ – Another Story Demonstrating How the Lord Leads: I heard that one of my former students who had professed to know Christ was now living as a monk at a mountain monastery. So I prayerfully set out to find him. My understanding was that there was only one monastery in that area. I was wrong. From one monastery to another… the Lord used that misunderstanding to open door after door to share the gospel. One would imagine that sharing the gospel with a head monk at his monastery would draw fire. In this case, the Lord gave them a fascination with my height and nationality. They listened to the gospel message, even when I differentiated karma from Biblical salvation. Praise the Lord Jesus Christ! At the end of the day, I went to the closest town to eat and stay the night. There the Lord led into the LGBTQ. “L,” pictured below with a lion on his sweatshirt, recently lost his dad and mom to tragic circumstances. “L” has since delved deeply into Buddhism, dresses as a ladyboy and participates in Buddhist festivals. After listening and comforting, it was the right time to share the gospel message and Christian worldview around homosexuality with him – to tell him about the God who loves him enough to give his life for him. Recently I returned and met L’s friend “V.” Influenced by another believing friend, “V” has been reading the Bible. Around lunch, they took me to see ancient Hindu rock carvings. People offer sacrifices (e.g. incense, food) in front of them. After browsing the carvings, they asked what I thought of them. I explained that I enjoyed the surrounding nature and mountain but that the God who created the heavens and the earth is the One true, living God. Other “gods” are deception from Satan (John 8:44; 2 Cor 4:4; Rev 12:9-11). Often we as believers are called to speak difficult truth that people would rather not hear. Had I silently endorsed Hindu gods by not speaking up, it would have been sin. As believers entrusted with The Truth, we are called to lead, rather than follow. Please pray for salvation for “L” and “V.” Praise the Lord! “For as I passed by, and beheld your devotions, I found an altar with this inscription, TO THE UNKNOWN GOD. Whom therefore ye ignorantly worship, him declare I unto you.” Acts 17:33 Evangelizing the LGBTQ – Ladyboy Prostitutes: “Ladyboys” (a term that Thai and Cambodian men who live as women call themselves) gather along the river in my town to sell themselves in the evenings. We ate together at a food truck in the area. We prayed together before eating. One used to attend church. Another sang a Christian song for the group. Another seemed to be very convicted when asked to read Scripture, specifically the call to repentance. The Lord was working there. Please pray for salvation, specifically for “K.” Praise the Lord! “How then shall they call on him in whom they have not believed? and how shall they believe in him of whom they have not heard? and how shall they hear without a preacher?” Romans 10:14 Evangelizing the LGBTQ – Tourists from Thailand: On the way into a coffee shop, an employee who didn’t know my past joked, ‘Those two in front of you are gays from Thailand.’ (tourists here to visit the temples) I played it cool until they ordered and sat down. Then I introduced myself and asked it if was ok to sit with them. I shared the gospel. They replied that basically all religions seek to make us ‘a good person.’ So I shared key differences between Christianity and Buddhism. One of the two seemed to be more convicted when asked to read God’s Word. At the end, I prayed for them. And they said, ‘Thank you for sharing the right path.’ Praise the Lord! Please pray for salvation. “I have planted, Apollos watered; but God gave the increase.” 1 Corinthians 3:6 “Grade A Nation” Podcast: This is not a Christian podcast. Chris is a skeptical unbeliever, who sought to discredit both messenger and message. Yet the Lord used it. Chris had thoroughly researched and asked deeply personal questions, drilling into great subject matter. We discussed a wide range of issues covered in my books and ministry updates. Praise the Lord! “Casting down imaginations, and every high thing that exalteth itself against the knowledge of God, and bringing into captivity every thought to the obedience of Christ;” 2 Corinthians 10:5 Any of us could die at any moment. Click Here to find out how you can know enduring peace, God’s purpose for your life and be sure you will go to heaven when your brief time on earth is up. PRAISE THE LORD JESUS CHRIST! Ways to Partner: 1. Pray for: – Conviction, eyes to see and ears to hear for the LGBTQ. – That seeds would bear fruit, that the Lord would raise up Cambodian evangelists. – Revival for the U.S. church – that we would stand for difficult truth in these days no matter what the cost. – Pray for our marriage and the promised son. – Financial support to keep me in the field doing what I am called to do. 2. Click to Donate via PayPal (tax deductible)! |
Tag Archives: transgender
October Ministry Highlights
| Due to the sensitive nature of this ministry, some details, photos and videos have been removed from the below update that was sent to our prayer partners. Prayer Partners: Thank you for your support! Rebekah Update: Worship Video: “God Is Good All the Time!” => https://youtu.be/unXOXdtupHE After recording the above video (note the final clip) and before finishing this ministry update, I ran into my wife today for the first time in a while. As you know, we have been separated since July of 2021. Please pray that she repents and comes home. “Some trust in chariots, and some in horses: but we will remember the name of the Lord our God. They are brought down and fallen: but we are risen, and stand upright.” Psalm 20:7-8 Matt in Pennsylvania after Christmas: All of January, I plan to be back in Pennsylvania and would be blessed to share at your church. Please reply if interested. Cambodia – Neighborhood Youth Ministry: We have been studying Job. The kids are learning to lead in steps. For example, “J” and “P” shared the gospel with the group and received feedback. “P” closed the service, incorporating take-aways from the lesson into his prayer, like an adult. Praise the Lord! We went to a local church, and the kids worshipped in song. Praise the Lord! “The earth is the Lord’s, and the fulness thereof; the world, and they that dwell therein.” Psalm 24:1 Indonesia – Ex-Gay Testimony, Youth Group: The Lord provided opportunity to share with a church youth group. Praise the Lord! “And they overcame him by the blood of the Lamb, and by the word of their testimony; and they loved not their lives unto the death.” Revelation 21:11 Indonesia – Worship Leader “J”: It is very difficult to be openly gay in predominantly Muslim Indonesia. Most keep their lifestyles private. One day, I got lost trying to find the jungle to take a hike. Stopping to ask directions from two young Muslim men covered from head to toe in black, I caught a glimpse of mascara on one’s eyes. Unplanned as usual, the Lord had led me right into the LGBTQ! I connected with the apparent leader (who could speak some English) online. Through another turn of events on a rainy day, I ended up at a KFC in his town. The Lord led to reach out and share the gospel with him. Getting out of there after our impending meeting required GPS. The electrical outlets at KFC did not work on my rain-soaked phone. In a next door coffee shop, I tried to charge. Both of the two customers in the coffee shop were openly gay. At first, I made small talk and spoke of my phone issues. When the conversation went to testimony, “J” shed a tear. He turned over his arm to reveal cut marks dating back to a week prior, he said. THAT was about the time the Lord had led me to plan the trip. This series of mishaps were not coincidence! We read Scripture for encouragement, prayed together and connected online. “J” reached out and asked to discuss God’s Word more. He, the same friend and I met for dinner. Beginning with Creation and The Fall of Man, I walked him through the biblical worldview around homosexuality (e.g. Gen 1-3; Jer 17:9; Ps 51:5; Rom 1:20-32, 3:10, 23; 1 Cor 6:9-11). Though raised in a Christian home and having led worship in church, homosexuality had not been directly addressed with applicable Scripture. He seemed to have concluded there was no way out and that he could not be forgiven. I can relate. “J” re-committed his life to Christ right there at the dinner table. Praise the Lord!! After walking through Scripture proving that Jesus can forgive the repentant homosexual, “J” said, ‘Thank you. I learned so much today about the love of God.’ Praise the Lord! Walking away from a gay identity and lifestyle is not easy. But in the power of Christ, all things are possible (Matt 19:26)! Please pray for “J.” “The sacrifices of God are a broken spirit: a broken and a contrite heart, O God, thou wilt not despise.” Psalm 51:17 “Now unto him that is able to do exceeding abundantly above all that we ask or think, according to the power that worketh in us,” Ephesians 3:20 Indonesia – Pastor on the “Down Low”: Those who have lived gay lifestyles are well aware that there is much “undercover” homosexuality around the world. On a flight from one part of Indonesia to another, I met a pastor who showed me photos of his beautiful wife and kids at home. We discussed my testimony and the ministry. Pastor invited me back some day to share testimony at his church. Off the plane, he followed me to the airport-adjoined hotel where I was going to stay for the overnight layover. I assumed that he either followed me there to help with translation or because he was considering getting a room for himself. I was wrong. Pastor asked if it was ok for him to stay overnight in my room with me. Standing there in disbelief, I confirmed with the concierge in front of this pastor that there was only one bed in my room. Confirmed. One bed was not a deal-breaker for the pastor. Through our extensive conversations, it was apparent that this was not some sort of rural custom or cost saving effort. Nothing, I mean NOTHING surprises me these days. “But evil men and seducers shall wax worse and worse, deceiving, and being deceived.” 2 Timothy 3:13 “Keep It Real” Podcast (2-part): Baltimore Baptist church leader Mark and I discuss: (1) the biblical worldview on homosexuality, (2) ex-gay new life realities and (3) handling rejection from the church. Praise the Lord. Part 1 of 2 (59 mins) => https://youtu.be/ZAztL7B29LI Part 2 of 2 (1 hr, 7 mins) => https://youtu.be/KJy8IqwcZso “And he said unto me, My grace is sufficient for thee: for my strength is made perfect in weakness. Most gladly therefore will I rather glory in my infirmities, that the power of Christ may rest upon me.” 2 Corinthians 12:9 Any of us could die at any moment. Click Here to find out how you can know enduring peace, God’s purpose for your life and be sure you will go to heaven when your brief time on earth is up. PRAISE THE LORD JESUS CHRIST! Ways to Partner: 1. Pray for: – Conviction, eyes to see and ears to hear for the LGBTQ. – That seeds would bear fruit, that the Lord would raise up Cambodian evangelists. – Revival for the U.S. church – that we would stand for difficult truth in these days no matter what the cost. – Pray for our marriage and the promised son. – Financial support to keep me in the field doing what I am called to do. 2. Click to Donate via PayPal (tax deductible)! |
September Ministry Highlights
| Due to the sensitive nature of this ministry, some details, photos and videos have been removed from the below update that was sent to our prayer partners. Prayer Partners: Thank you for your support! Youth Ministry Fruit – “Day of the Dead”: For many Cambodian believers, like the Israelites (Ex 32), the greatest challenge is the pressure from family to return to (deeply ingrained and fear-driven) idol worship. “Pchum Ben,” which just finished, is another Buddhist holiday (like April) wherein family pressures new Christians to return to the pagoda and offer sacrifices to demons. One time per year, people believe the gates of hell are opened for the spirits of the dead to roam the earth. In keeping with teaching around karma (do good, get good), the living “transfer merit” to deceased ancestors by giving rice (a food offering / sacrifice) to monks who see to it that it is transferred. As believers, we know that this life is a brief “waiting room” opportunity to accept or reject the only way to heaven – repentance and faith in the Lord Jesus Christ (Matt 3:2; John 3:3, 16, 14:6; Rom 6:23). Everlasting judgment awaits all who have rejected Him (John 12:48). And there is no coming back (Jam 4:14; Heb 9:27; Rev 21:8). This reality fuels evangelism: “And he said unto them, Go ye into all the world, and preach the gospel to every creature. He that believeth and is baptized shall be saved; but he that believeth not shall be damned.” Mark 16:15-16 For the repentant born-again believer who walks according to the Spirit of God, there will be no condemnation (Rom 8:1; Rev 21:4). Moreover, Pchum Ben is yet another lie Satan uses to steal worship from the Lord. Charging the youth to stand for Christ against the establishment, the Lord led to address Pchum Ben using Daniel’s bold stand in Daniel Chapter 1. “And fear not them which kill the body, but are not able to kill the soul: but rather fear him which is able to destroy both soul and body in hell.” Matthew 10:28 Youth Ministry Fruit – “P” & family: Mindful of the aforementioned, the Lord leads to engage families. Recently P’s sister came back home to give birth. I was invited inside the house for the first time. Her husband is Catholic Indonesian, open to talk. Praise the Lord. When asked “spur of the moment” at the end of last Sunday’s service to share the gospel, “P” stepped up. The other kids applauded, which seemed to encourage him. Praise the Lord! “For I am not ashamed of the gospel of Christ: for it is the power of God unto salvation to every one that believeth…” Romans 1:16 Youth Ministry Fruit – “H”: Many youth pray to give their lives to Christ. Not all demonstrate a hunger for the Word or love for the Lord (Matt 7:16-24). But “H” went out of his way to ask for a Bible. He wanted to understand it. He began reading right then and there at Genesis 1 (video below). Then he came to worship despite being very sick (later went to the hospital). I said, ‘Wow, you must really love Jesus?’ With resolve, he replied, ‘Yes, Teacher.’ PRAISE THE LORD! Please pray that “H” continues in the fight! “For by grace are ye saved through faith; and that not of yourselves: it is the gift of God: Not of works, lest any man should boast.” Ephesians 2:8-9 Door-to-Door Ministry Fruit – Man Asks for a Bible & Commits to Read: A neighborhood man with whom our youth shared door-to-door several weeks ago recently asked for a Bible. I took him one, gave him an overview and prayed with him. He vowed to read the whole Bible, jotting down his questions along the way. Please pray that the Lord gives “Bong” faith. “So then faith cometh by hearing, and hearing by the word of God.” Romans 10:17 LGBTQ Evangelism – Pastor’s Son “K”: Compared to usual LGBTQ outreach, periodic meetings with “K” (last ref. June) are refreshing. The Lord has established trust and pushes me to be bold. At the end of a previous conversation, he said he feels soft / girly and that people label him “gay.” I told him it doesn’t matter how girly he feels or people think he is. Then I asked him if he has a penis. He replied, Yes. ‘Then you’re a man!’ I confirmed. He smiled. Our most recent spirited debate was mostly about the credibility of God’s Word. He said there is no God, that it’s just people’s belief in “something” that drives them. After much apologetical and testimonial discussion, referencing Scripture (2 Tim 3:16; 2 Pet 1:20-21), I asked if the Lord had ever spoken to him in any way (e.g. impression). He said, “No.” I asked if I could pray with him that the Lord will reveal Himself to him. “K” agreed. Please pray that the Lord makes Himself known to this man and makes him a warrior for Christ! “Now then we are ambassadors for Christ, as though God did beseech you by us: we pray you in Christ’s stead, be ye reconciled to God.” 2 Corinthians 5:20 Any of us could die at any moment. Click Here to find out how you can know enduring peace, God’s purpose for your life and be sure you will go to heaven when your brief time on earth is up. PRAISE THE LORD JESUS CHRIST! Ways to Partner: 1. Pray for: – Conviction, eyes to see and ears to hear for the LGBTQ. – That seeds would bear fruit, that the Lord would raise up Cambodian evangelists. – Revival for the U.S. church – that we would stand for difficult truth in these days no matter what the cost. – Pray for our marriage and the promised son. – Financial support to keep me in the field doing what I am called to do. 2. Click to Donate via PayPal (tax deductible)! |
August Ministry Highlights
| Due to the sensitive nature of this ministry, some details, photos and videos have been removed from the below update that was sent to our prayer partners. Prayer Partners: Thank you for your support! LGBTQ Evangelism, Bangkok: In 2016, Castaway Ministries was born with outreach to the LGBTQ in global sex tourism & gender re-assignment hub, sin city Bangkok. Recently I returned to Bangkok and hit the old stomping grounds (red light districts) to witness. It is relatively common for Cambodians to relocate to Bangkok for work, including sex work. The Lord led to some transgender prostitutes from Cambodia (“ladyboys”, as they call themselves and are commonly known in Thai/Cambodian culture). If Christ can forgive me, He can forgive them. Praise the Lord. “This is a faithful saying, and worthy of all acceptation, that Christ Jesus came into the world to save sinners; of whom I am chief.” 1 Timothy 1:15 Over the years, the Lord has also provided opportunity to speak biblical truth into life-changing decisions, if you get what I’m saying. Having made just about every poor life choice in the book myself, the Lord leads to use those “lessons learned the hard way” to urge others to avoid making choices that derail God’s plans for them. But even if the decision not to move forward with a procedure is made, the soul is not saved through behavior modification. Beyond avoiding a particular sin and subsequent guilt, the urge and hope is for repentance and salvation by faith in the Lord Jesus Christ (Matt 3:2; John 3:3, 16, 36). Happy lies put a smile on one’s face for today and send him to hell for eternity. If we truly love people, we must tell them the truth. Only the truth can set them/us free (John 8:32; 17:17). “The thief cometh not, but for to steal, and to kill, and to destroy: I am come that they might have life, and that they might have it more abundantly.” John 10:10 Muslim LGBTQ Evangelism, Bangkok: First morning after arriving in Bangkok, I went downstairs in the hotel for breakfast. A man who said he was in town for work-related training asked me to sit with him. Conversation went from, ‘Why are you here?’ to testimony and the gospel. He demonstrated knowledge of the Bible’s Old Testament, which would be highly unusual for the Thai Buddhist majority to know. Then he revealed he is from the predominantly Muslim southern portion of Thailand that borders Malaysia. The Quran, a satanic counterfeit of the Bible, includes some of the Bible’s Old Testament. Additionally, a man named Jesus is revealed as a prophet who performed miracles but never died for our sins. In other words, all of the attributes essential to salvation (e.g. His deity, substitutionary atonement) are removed. This man is a counterfeit Jesus. I corrected him on the deity of Christ (most notably using John 10:30, 14:6), contended that no one can know God apart from the Lord Jesus Christ and told him if the Quranic Jesus is true, we are all bound for hell because God provided only one door to heaven – by repentance and faith in the Lord Jesus Christ (John 10:9; John 3:16-18). Most Muslim men would rebuttal that, but he did not. Hmm… I wondered why. Toward the end, we took a photo and connected through social media. When I saw his profile, I got the feeling that maybe he struggled with same-sex attraction (had not picked up on any cues previously). After breakfast, he asked, ‘Which room are you staying in?’ I told him the floor (many rooms) but did not divulge my room number. He said, ‘I’m on the 6th floor. Room 666.’ I reacted, ‘Wow!’ He looked blankly, unaware of its biblical significance. The Lord was saying, ‘In case you didn’t realize, this is of the enemy… a test.’ This is standard operating procedure for many who live closeted gay lives. Though typically much more overt in my approach, I once was that man. This is my life and ministry. It’s laden with risk. Separated from my wife, I am tested at my weakest moments. Satan whispers, ‘No one has to know!’ It requires in depth knowledge from my past life (“the depths of Satan,” Rev 2:24) plus biblical wisdom and power from the indwelling Holy Spirit to fight. If I were back in Pittsburgh working for the bank, similar testing would come. This is the norm for the ex-gay. The Lord has prepared me… for such a time as this. Praise the Lord! Please pray that M comes to know the Lord Jesus Christ of the Bible, is transferred from the kingdom of darkness to the kingdom of light and fights on the right side of this war over the souls of men (Eph 2:13; Col 1:13). “For this thing I besought the Lord thrice, that it might depart from me. And he said unto me, My grace is sufficient for thee: for my strength is made perfect in weakness. Most gladly therefore will I rather glory in my infirmities, that the power of Christ may rest upon me. Therefore I take pleasure in infirmities, in reproaches, in necessities, in persecutions, in distresses for Christ’s sake: for when I am weak, then am I strong.” 2 Corinthians 12:8-10 Neighborhood Youth Ministry – Door-to-Door Evangelism, Cambodia: Back across the border in Cambodia… Remember from July’s update that an envious mother pulled her three faithful kids out of our youth ministry over a dental emergency. I had been praying and trusting the Lord to resolve. Not long afterwards, apparently the Lord provided through someone else to get her teeth fixed. It seemed to solve the problem, no more need to envy. She really does look good, and I told her so. The kids returned on the last day of the Joseph story where Joseph forgave his brothers. Praise the Lord! It was an opportunity to clarify, contrary to Buddhist belief in karma where people who “do bad receive bad,” that Jesus forgives the repentant! This past Sunday, we door-to-door witnessed in the neighborhood and ended up at their home (unplanned). We shared the gospel with their mom. Her son (oldest) has been stepping up to serve, to share the gospel and pray with/for unbelievers. He walked away from praying for someone with the joy of the Lord, ‘I am so happy in my heart. Before I was scared to share the gospel. Now I’m not scared because I have Jesus in my heart.’ Praise the Lord! True joy is found only in serving the Lord (Matt 16:25-26; Neh 8:10)! A few minutes later, he told me his friend asked him to go to a coffee shop and hang out but that he didn’t have the money (nudge, nudge). Gotta love these kids! “Now the just shall live by faith: but if any man draw back, my soul shall have no pleasure in him.” Hebrews 10:38 Saved and Loved Podcast (Duration: 33 mins): Seema and I discuss content of all three books in the Straight series, including The Church: We Shoot Our Wounded. This interview includes (1) discussion about root causes of the normalization of homosexuality in today’s culture, (2) common gender role reversals, (3) biblical role of women in home and church, women pastors and Male Headship, (4) how to battle LGBTQ indoctrination of our kids and (5) encouragement for ex-gay men to fight forward, standing alone on the Word of God in these last days of rampant heresy and apostasy. Any of us could die at any moment. Click Here to find out how you can know enduring peace, God’s purpose for your life and be sure you will go to heaven when your brief time on earth is up. PRAISE THE LORD JESUS CHRIST! Ways to Partner: 1. Pray for: – Conviction, eyes to see and ears to hear for the LGBT. – That seeds would bear fruit, that the Lord would raise up Cambodian evangelists. – Revival for the U.S. church – that we would stand for difficult truth in these days no matter what the cost. – Pray for our marriage and the promised son. – Financial support to keep me in the field doing what I am called to do. 2. Click to Donate via PayPal (tax deductible)! |
March Ministry Highlights
| Due to the sensitive nature of this ministry, some details, photos and videos have been removed from the below update that was sent to our prayer partners. Prayer Partners: Thank you for your support! Cambodian New Year – Cultural Context: Since eternity past, Satan strives to steal worship from the only God worthy of it. Khmer New Year, by far the most anticipated Cambodian holiday, is a three-day event in mid-April. Cambodians are taught that angels who protect the nation undergo a “changing of the guard”. At a time annually announced by the prime minister, Cambodians bow and worship “angels” (2 Cor 11:14), expressly forbidden by God’s Word (Col 2:18). Cambodians also offer them a sacrifice. For example, for the “year of the monkey”, an appropriate sacrifice on the altar would be bananas. After three days, people are permitted to eat the food offered to demons. Community and family pressure the reluctant (e.g. Christians) with, ‘You are Khmer; therefore, you are Buddhist.’ Praise the Lord for the insight from my Cambodian language & culture teacher. I started prayerfully planning teachings to combat this with Bible truth (ex. Col 2:18; Ex 20:3-6; Acts 5:27-29; Rev 22:8-9). “Whom we preach, warning every man, and teaching every man in all wisdom; that we may present every man perfect in Christ Jesus” Colossians 1:28 Ex-LGBTQ Discipleship – “R”: Recent convert “R” and I have been making steady progress washing out the lies of the world with the inspired, inerrant Word of God. Praise the Lord! “And be not conformed to this world: but be ye transformed by the renewing of your mind, that ye may prove what is that good, and acceptable, and perfect, will of God.” Romans 12:2 LGBTQ Evangelism – “K”: “K” has joined me for church three times. At 22 years old, like most unmarried Cambodians, he lives with his parents and helps with the family business – selling second-hand clothing along the road. The second time I picked him up, his mom scolded him in front of me – ‘Cambodians are Buddhist! We do not believe in Jesus!’ After some pleading, she allowed him to go. When the pastor finished preaching, he handed off to a young Cambodian to share testimony – how she handled the challenge of honoring parents while putting Jesus first. There is no way this was coincidence. God provided guidance specific to his challenge. Praise the Lord! Although he is not yet ready to give his life to Christ (and I appreciate his honesty), I asked if he feels anything during worship. He replied, ‘sro-sreye’, which is ‘fresh’. Praise the Lord for each step! “And let us not be weary in well doing: for in due season we shall reap, if we faint not.” Galatians 6:9 LGBTQ Evangelism – “O” (2+ hrs away): Last you heard of “O” (January’s update), local pastor was not willing to welcome him for worship. Churches rejecting the LGBTQ is a global epidemic. This was an opportunity to prayerfully troubleshoot a workaround. Unable to force pastors to accept the LGBTQ, the only option is to provide a middle ground for strengthening the wounded for release “into the wild”. Taking it easy, I returned to the salon, took him and another transgender co-worker to eat. He loves to read, which works out well. We read “The Prodigal Son”, accompanying Scripture and prayed together. While in the area, I returned to the same church. Pastor was away. As is often the case, the pastor’s wife was much more welcoming of those with “unusual struggles” than the pastor is. She assured me to tell “O”, ‘Don’t be afraid to join for worship.’ Praise the Lord for each step! “By long forbearing is a prince persuaded, and a soft tongue breaketh the bone.” Proverbs 25:15 Neighborhood Youth Ministry: The kids are learning to multiply. We walked through the neighborhood and shared the gospel with several families. Praise the Lord! “Now the just shall live by faith: but if any man draw back, my soul shall have no pleasure in him.” Hebrews 10:38 Drug Rehab Center: Wife of a worship leader friend serves at a drug rehab center and invited me to share with the guys. ‘People are not willing to look up until they are on their backs (hit rock bottom),’ as they say. I shared the gospel and my testimony to dispel the myth that “deep sin” is unforgivable (1 Tim 1:15). We worshipped and prayed together. It was a tremendous blessing. Praise the Lord! “If we confess our sins, he is faithful and just to forgive us our sins, and to cleanse us from all unrighteousness.” 1 John 1:9 LGBTQ Outreach to Rural Farming Community (2+ hrs away): The Lord convicted to go out there on Saturday afternoon. I checked at the church to make sure service times had not changed. Leader there sent me to the pastor’s house. He was not home, but his daughter, aware of my story, brought out her son who struggles with homosexuality and substance abuse. We talked and walked through Scripture. After Pastor arrived, we had a group discussion using my testimony as proof that “Jesus can do this!” Ultimately he said he was not ready to give his life to Christ. Having done my duty, we prayed together. Next day, I rounded up the the willing from the two target families and went to church. On the spot again, the deacon/elder asked me to preach. ‘Don’t Worship Angels‘ was the message I had prepared. A few in the small congregation looked as though they were about to climb out of their skin. After church, mothers of “Barber” and “Tailor” prepared a delicious lunch for us. Praise the Lord! “For the perfecting of the saints, for the work of the ministry, for the edifying of the body of Christ” Ephesians 4:12 “10,000 Reasons” in Khmer: Language teacher has been teaching me hymns and worship songs. The Lord empowers. Praise God! Click to Watch Video – 10,000 Reasons, Khmer language. “Bless the Lord, O my soul: and all that is within me, bless his holy name.” Psalm 103:1 Discussion with Joshua Berglan of Live Mana Worldwide: Joshua has an intense testimony that the Lord is using to reach those who feel that they have gone too far to be forgiven. And he is not afraid to share it. It was a blessing to exchange war stories. Praise the Lord! Click to Watch Video – Discussing respective “deep sin” testimonies (1 hr, 15 mins). “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 Click here to view LGBTQ Evangelism/Discipleship photos. Click here for ministry videos. Ways to Partner: 1. Pray for: – Conviction, eyes to see and ears to hear for the LGBT. – That seeds would bear fruit, that the Lord would raise up Cambodian evangelists. – Revival for the U.S. church – that we would stand for difficult truth in these days no matter what the cost. – Pray for our marriage and the promised son. – Financial support to keep me in the field doing what I am called to do. 2. Click to Donate via PayPal (tax deductible)! Praise the Lord Jesus Christ! And Thank You for your support! |
February Ministry Highlights
| Due to the sensitive nature of this ministry, some details and photos have been removed from the below update that was sent to our prayer partners. Prayer Partners: Thank you for your support! |
LGBTQ Evangelism: A local massage parlor employee prayed to give his life to Christ and made a profession of faith. PRAISE THE LORD! That being said, it’s a long way out of a gay lifestyle and false identity. Please stand with me in prayer that he bears fruit in keeping with repentance and becomes a soul-winner. Like most service industry employees in Cambodia, he gets few Sundays off. Please pray that the Lord provides another job / schedule. We have had two “discipleship breakfasts” so far. “Likewise, I say unto you, there is joy in the presence of the angels of God over one sinner that repenteth.” Luke 15:10 Neighborhood Children’s Ministry: Remember that these first few weeks back in school, the kids were trained, equipped with a gospel tract and challenged to share with a friend. Rough and tough when we are all together, they were afraid to share the gospel one-on-one. So I told them we would do it together. A couple of Sundays ago, we went to a local restaurant where I knew the owner and staff. The kids practiced sharing on them. Considering that getting most adult believers to share the gospel is like pulling teeth, I figure I should go easy on them. In Christ, they can get there! “For God hath not given us the spirit of fear; but of power, and of love, and of a sound mind.” 2 Timothy 1:7 Rural Mission: The Lord creatively led a couple of years ago to a group of LGBTQ in a poor farming community about two hours from my town. Ever since, I have been going back periodically to build relationships and share Christ with two of them – a barber and a tailor. When we hit a stalemate, I sought the Lord. He led to teach their nephews and nieces. Barber’s nephew prayed to give his life to Christ and then seems to have acted as a “sleeper cell” of sorts within his family. Next visit, his dad (barber’s brother-in-law), who has influence with Barber, was willing to read Scripture and hear the gospel. We prayed together. He agreed to go to the nearby church if I joined. Two Sundays ago, I took our neighborhood kids up there. They encouraged the families to worship and sang in front of the church. Barber, his mom, brother-in-law and nephews joined. Tailor’s nephew also joined. That day, I shared ex-gay testimony, the simple gospel message and led in the sinner’s prayer. Pastor invited me back to preach. At two affiliated churches, the Lord led to preach the Sower & the Seed parable (very fitting for a farming community), which naturally flowed into the gospel message. Praise the Lord! Reaching Cambodia’s LGBTQ: As follow-up to last month’s gospel message, my ex-gay testimony in Khmer language has been posted on Youtube and Facebook. What He has done for me, He wants to do for many. Praise the Lord! Click here to watch the testimony video. “And such were some of you: but ye are washed, but ye are sanctified, but ye are justified in the name of the Lord Jesus, and by the Spirit of our God.” 1 Corinthians 6:11 Blessed to be Interviewed by Gary Wilkerson (son of David Wilkerson): David Wilkerson authored The Cross and the Switchblade and founded Teen Challenge. He previously pastored a church in Philipsburg, PA – high school football rival and neighbor of my hometown, Clearfield. His son Gary, who now heads World Challenge, said he was born in Philipsburg but only lived there for a short time. It’s a small world. We covered ex-gay testimony, LGBTQ evangelism and Cambodia missions. Teen Challenge also has operations in Cambodia. Their Cambodia team lead reached out after the interview was aired. What a blessing. Praise the Lord! Click here to watch the interview (44 mins). “For whosoever will save his life shall lose it: and whosoever will lose his life for my sake shall find it.” Matthew 16:25 Click here to view recent LGBTQ Evangelism photos. Click here for ministry videos. Ways to Partner: 1. Pray for: – Conviction, eyes to see and ears to hear for the LGBT. – That seeds would bear fruit, that the Lord would raise up Cambodian evangelists. – Revival for the U.S. church – that we would stand for difficult truth in these days no matter what the cost. – Pray for our marriage and the promised son. – Financial support to keep me in the field doing what I am called to do. 2. Click to Donate via PayPal (tax deductible)! Praise the Lord Jesus Christ! And Thank You for your support! |
January Ministry Update (as a case-in-point)
| Due to the sensitive nature of this ministry, we typically do not post detailed updates in public forums. Below is January’s update with some details and photos removed. Prayer Partners: Thank you for your support! This month, the Lord provided two case-in-point stories that illustrate Castaway’s unique challenges. Story #1: LGBT Evangelism: Remember the three men who identify as transgender in the rural salon? The youngest used to lead worship but says he stopped attending church because he got busy. There may be more to the story. At Christmas, he asked for a Bible. We walked through passages together. He has been active in our Facebook Khmer Bible group, reacting to Scripture almost daily. The oldest of this trio greatly influences the other two. On the way there three days ago, I prayed that he would be singled out. The Lord answered prayer – singled out and not busy – very unusual. We went through the gospel and read Scripture out loud again. My primary aim was to nudge him back into worship. I said, ‘If I truly believe in Jesus, I will join church every Sunday.’ He nodded. I asked if there is a church nearby and asked how to get there. He pointed in the direction of one about a mile away. I said, ‘If I made a decision to follow Jesus and did not follow, I can ask for forgiveness and start over.’ I asked him if he wanted to make a decision to start following Jesus. He said, ‘Yes.’ He followed me in a prayer of re-dedication. Then came a sad reality. While asking directions to the church at a corner store, the pastor pulled up. I followed him there. Even after sharing my testimony, he seemed to welcome me with open arms. In the U.S., not all do. But to him, I represent the richest nation on earth. He pointed out needs the church had, his lack of help and pictures of Americans who have donated and served. I told him my concern is for helping the LGBTQ follow Christ. When asked if he knew the salon worker, he said he did. I asked him to go with me (less than a mile away) to encourage him to come to church. Pastor remembered how busy he is and couldn’t spare five minutes. This is not a Cambodia-specific problem. With no political correctness movement to hide behind and probably with good reason in some cases, pastors here openly bully the LGBTQ. Called to stand in the gap, I am praying for wisdom. Please pray for a solution around the salon worker and the global issue this situation puts on display. “Be not deceived; God is not mocked: for whatsoever a man soweth, that shall he also reap. For he that soweth to his flesh shall of the flesh reap corruption; but he that soweth to the Spirit shall of the Spirit reap life everlasting.” Galatians 6:7-8 Story #2: Evangelistic Mission to a Remote Province: This was my 3rd trip to this province (556 miles roundtrip, according to GPS). 1st trip, roughly 4 years ago, I met a young boy with his dad in a poor fishing village (houses suspended above the ocean on stilts). 2nd trip about 2 years ago, I went to their house only to find that the dad had died of alcohol-related ailments. I cried, while his widow and son sat there dry-eyed as if to say, ‘You only met him once.’ I could have been that guy… but God. The Lord gave a heart for the boy. Through a soccer ball purchase, the Lord led to a seller who identifies as gay. 1st trip, I also met the village’s barber who also identifies as gay. Both responded to the gospel much better the 3rd visit than the 1st or 2nd encounter with a total stranger sharing an outlandish story about a foreign God. It’s all about building trust. I prayed with both. Praise the Lord. The boy’s name is ‘Big’. His younger brother is named ‘Small’. With exposure to the gospel but no church in the area, the mother figured she’d just go to the local pagoda and worship whatever gods. We walked through the gospel (2x with the kids), clarified Exodus 20:3-6 and prayed the sinner’s prayer for all interested in giving their lives to Christ. Praise the Lord! Leaving Big’s house, a man’s voice shouted at me from an apparent woman’s body – a “ladyboy”. Sex workers tend to relate to my humiliating testimony and return the favor with refreshing honesty. He asked many questions. We talked for about an hour, and he asked me to return later. We ate and talked for a long time. He ended by saying he is young and not yet ready to give his life to Christ. I warned that he could die tomorrow. Without Christ, he would spend eternity in hell. He said, ‘Some day, I will probably call you and say, ‘I’m ready.” Will Big’s family realistically succeed in following Christ without attending church? Probably not. Asking around, I located what appears to be the only church within reach. The gate was ajar. I shouted inside to no avail. Hearing noise, I walked near the sanctuary (open air) to a side room. A man came out, encouraged the dog to attack, grabbed a Judo stick and came after me shouting. Backing up, I yelled, ‘Jesus! (making a cross with my fingers, pointing up) I am a missionary! Jesus! Jesus!’ He continued at me, flanking me through the sanctuary with his Judo stick. My heart sank. Is this where we are as a church? What???!!! Bear in mind that I was there to find a place of worship for a fatherless child. When I turned around and started recording the pastor, he calmed down a bit. I walked out. “…as ye have done it unto one of the least of these my brethren, ye have done it unto me.” Matthew 25:40 Neighborhood Children’s Ministry: One of our kids has been “seeing ghosts”. Demonic encounters are common here. Satan terrorizes to steal worship from the Lord and drive those of weak faith back to Satan worship (Buddhism’s teaching that if evil spirits are not appeased through sacrifice and worship, they will curse – e.g. illness, “bad luck”). Click here for last Sunday’s spiritual warfare message. These first few weeks back in school, they have been trained, equipped with a gospel tract and challenged to share with a friend. “…rejoice not, that the spirits are subject unto you; but rather rejoice, because your names are written in heaven.” Luke 10:20 Reaching Cambodia with the Gospel: The gospel message in Khmer language has been posted on Youtube and Facebook for a few weeks. Promoted to a broader Cambodian audience than would normally follow our ministry, it has been viewed over 450 times. Some have reached out with Bible questions. Praise the Lord! “Thou shalt have no other gods before me.” Exodus 20:3 Rick & Carole, Parents of a Gay Prodigal: Reflecting on their handling of my “coming out”, Dad advised regarding, “How to Fight a War Like This”. Mom provided insight from the perspective of a loving mother forced to choose between her son and God’s inerrant Word. Click here to listen (35 mins) “Abraham… took the knife… the angel of the LORD called unto him out of heaven… Lay not thine hand upon the lad… for now I know that thou fearest God, seeing thou hast not withheld thy son, thine only son from me.” Genesis 22:10-12 Click here to view ministry photos. Click here for ministry videos. Ways to Partner: 1. Pray for: – Conviction, eyes to see and ears to hear for the LGBT. – That seeds would bear fruit, that the Lord would raise up Cambodian evangelists. – Revival for the U.S. church – that we would stand for difficult truth in these days no matter what the cost. – Pray for our marriage and the promised son. – Financial support to keep me in the field doing what I am called to do. 2. Click to Donate via PayPal (tax deductible)! |
Praise the Lord Jesus Christ! And Thank You for your support! |
How to Reach out to the LGBT (universal message created for Filipino churches)
ExGay Testimony & Suggestions re: How to Reach out to the LGBT.
Requested by Preacher Jong Madlang-awa with a Filipino (church) audience in mind. The message is universal.
“Know ye not that the unrighteous shall not inherit the kingdom of God? Be not deceived: neither fornicators, nor idolaters, nor adulterers, nor effeminate, nor abusers of themselves with mankind, Nor thieves, nor covetous, nor drunkards, nor revilers, nor extortioners, shall inherit the kingdom of God. And such were some of you: but ye are washed, but ye are sanctified, but ye are justified in the name of the Lord Jesus, and by the Spirit of our God.” 1 Corinthians 6:9-11
Praise the Lord!
2020 Ministry Recap
| Prayer Partners: Thank you for your faithful support! 2020 was tough. We trust that one day we will look at Covid in the rearview mirror. But through it, the Lord reminded that suffering yields gratefulness for blessings big and small. Even the most bitter of unbelievers will have a testimony of thankfulness for simple things that we all previously took for granted – such as eating in a restaurant with family. “My brethren, count it all joy when ye fall into divers temptations; 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 1:2-4 |
2020 began with a much longer-than-expected stay in the U.S. The Lord used it. Many believe that they were born “gay”. Fighting back lies with truth, getting ex-gay testimony out there is vital. To recap highlights:
- We were honored to share ex-gay testimony and become a resource for 23 churches and 1 school.
- Personal testimony was kindly shared 1-on-1, as the Lord led, just like we do in Southeast Asia. However, the reception was much less polite. Although the purpose is to save an individual from a lifestyle of heartache and everlasting judgment, we Americans are known around the world for unwillingness to take correction. Rebuttals ranged from “How dare you judge…!” to “I’ll see you in hell!” and other phrases that should not be repeated. The Lord thickens skin through trial. In the recent words of an old buddy of mine, ‘We’ll be back!’
- By the Lord’s grace, my testimony was published in book form.
- Click here to listen to an interview conducted by the American Family Association of Pennsylvania (AFA).
- Click here to listen to my testimony dramatically retold on “Unshackled“
My testimony is not about me. It’s about what the Lord did for me, that He can do the same for anyone who is willing to repent and fight to follow.
The Lord Jesus Christ is truly “The God of the Impossible”.
“With men this is impossible; but with God all things are possible.” Matthew 19:26
Click here to read more about 2020 U.S. ministry.
In late October, we arrived in Cambodia and hopped back into the saddle. Highlights:
Evangelism with a Focus on Reaching the LGBT:
“Go ye into all the world, and preach the gospel to every creature.” Mark 16:15
| “Long time, no see!” gave way to opportunity. Two men came to church with us. Sharing Ex-gay Testimony in Cambodian Churches & Schools: Before Christmas, I was honored to shared at a Bible school. Click below for video excerpts: |
| I shared, and we sang at another church in the capital city this past Sunday. Five more churches are on deck. Praise the Lord! “Satan, which deceiveth the whole world… And they overcame him by the blood of the Lamb, and by the word of their testimony; and they loved not their lives unto the death.” Revelation 12:9-11 Teaching Neighborhood Children: Against much opposition from culture and family, our neighborhood students are growing and did an excellent job again this year performing in church. Praise the Lord! |
Click here for more Christmas Ministry photos.
“Train up a child in the way he should go: and when he is old, he will not depart from it.” Proverbs 22:6
At 6pm that same evening, the students and their families joined us for Christmas dinner at a Korean restaurant.
Similar to last Christmas, the gospel – including the Second Coming of Christ – was shared prior to asking the blessing. Tracts were made available.
Buddhism focuses on “being a good person” / doing good. It can appear that the Christian is likewise “just trying to be a good person”. This confusion leads people to believe that “All religions are basically the same” and steers them around the cross to everlasting damnation. With unbelieving parents in attendance, my wife suggested that I use this occasion to clarify.
“…seducing spirits, and doctrines of devils” 1 Timothy 4:1
“For laying aside the commandment of God, ye hold the tradition of men…” Mark 7:8
So I worked with our Cambodian language teacher to get the proper words necessary to convey that message clearly. I shared that we do not “do good” because we are trying to “be good people” but because we want to point them to the Lord Jesus Christ – the only One who can save them… so that they will be ready to meet Him when they die. Click below for video excerpts:
Much thanks to Aunt Bobbie who contributed to bless the kids and their families for Christmas, 2020 & 2019.
Praise the Lord!
Ways to Partner with Us:
1. Pray for:
– Conviction, eyes to see and ears to hear for the LGBT.
– Revival for the U.S. – that we would stand for all timeless, Bible truth in these days no matter what the cost.
– Spiritual fruit from U.S. church engagements.
– Open hearts & spiritual fruit here in Southeast Asia.
– Stand with us in prayer for the promised son.
– Financial support to keep us in the field doing what I am called to do.
2. Click Here to Donate via PayPal (tax deductible)!
Praise the Lord Jesus Christ!
And Thank You for your support!
Key Initiative: Serve the Church
Friends:
Thank you for your prayer support.
Considering the sensitive nature of this ministry, providing a public blog update is a challenge to say the least. We apologize for any lack of clarity. Please feel free to contact us with questions.
Castaway Ministries purpose is: “To share the gospel of Jesus Christ by word and deed in the U.S. and abroad. To teach.”
We consider our primary costumers (those we are called to serve) to be:
- Those who struggle with same sex attraction and gender identity
- Families & friends of those who struggle
- Churches who want to reach out
A few weeks ago, my wife and I attended her friend’s wedding outside of town. There on a Sunday, we prayerfully researched local churches. During food & fellowship after the service, we encountered a very sensitive SSA situation. The Lord opened the door to help.
These and similar situations have reiterated that we need to actively pursue speaking engagements at churches.
We do this primarily through testimony and song. In short, the message is: “Stop beating up the broken.”
We aim to:
- Be the Voice of the Broken- to stand up for the young man or woman in the pew who feels alone.
- Build compassion through awareness for the reality of these struggles.
- Encourage churches to accept the broken and provide a compassionate safe place for them to come to know Christ and grow in Him.
We plan to generate a growing list of churches that preach the gospel of Jesus Christ and are willing to accept the broken.
We piloted with two churches. The Lord led to a church with whom I had a previous relationship dating back to 2011. Pastor agreed to add us for the Sunday service. I shared testimony and a call to compassion: ‘(testimony)…Praise the Lord… Maybe people will accept me now that I have a wife. But there are many others out there who have repented and given their lives to Jesus but continue to struggle. Maybe it’s not God’s plan for everyone to have a wife. I don’t know what it’s like to be you until I have been you. You don’t know what it’s like to be me until you’ve been me…. Please have compassion…’ My wife and I then sang “Amazing Grace”.
Now let’s step back for a moment and imagine this ministry. A man walks into a church and claims that God changed him from a sinful gay lifestyle to a monogamous heterosexual lifestyle. My wife standing there in the flesh gives Doubting Thomas something he can see and touch. Without my wife next to me, this type of ministry is only marginally effective. Praise the Lord for my wife.
“A man who finds a wife finds a good thing and obtains favor from the Lord.” – Proverbs 18:22
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Castaway Ministries 