ID Required

This past week I did some evangelistic outreaches with a friend originally from Cuba. Milco regularly attends services at the missionary house I reside at when in Tampa, Florida. The two of us went to a couple of Home Depots. Many Hispanics gather by the store’s parking lot in hopes of finding work. Previously, I’ve witnessed at the Home Depot closest to the missionary house. Since Milco has a car, I requested going to different locations for a change of scenery. 

Milco’s translating resulted in us leading many Hispanics to Jesus. However, one man we approached was very critical of churches. He specifically complained about a fellowship that wouldn’t let him attend a toy giveaway because he didn’t have an ID. I figured he was talking about The River at Tampa Bay Church. Pastor Rodney Howard-Browne started requiring IDs after receiving death threats for keeping his church open during the COVID-19 lockdowns.


Some may think needing identification to get into a church is a bit extreme. Regardless, IDs are a necessity for working regular jobs, attending school, and receiving services to prove your identity. One must have a valid driver’s license to legally drive a vehicle. Those who choose to smoke and drink need an ID to purchase cigarettes and alcoholic beverages. I’ve temporarily stopped flying, but still have to show an ID to travel the country by bus or train, plus when checking into a hotel. More states are finally requiring one to vote in elections. 


It’s possible that Hispanic critic was an illegal alien. I didn’t ask about that, but felt led to tell him, “You will need an ID to get into heaven.” Technically, Christians don’t carry identification from above, but Philippians 3:20 says, “For our citizenship is in heaven…” Everyone who wants to spend eternity there must make sure their names are written in the Book of Life. God won’t allow just anyone to walk through the Pearly Gates. If you aren't born again, you won't get in.


“Nevertheless the solid foundation of God stands, having this seal: ‘The Lord knows those who are His,’ and, ‘Let everyone who names the name of Christ depart from iniquity.’” - 2 Timothy 2:19


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