There Is No Substitute

A new pastor had arrived in his new church district. As he was unpacking, there was a knock on his door. A well-dressed lady, one of his new members asked to have a word with him. She explained that her husband was a well-known skeptic, but did not have long to live.

He had done much against Christianity and had displayed no interest in God at all. Would he please go and visit with her husband immediately? “Well,” he said, “I’ll go as soon as possible.”

“He may not receive you. He can be very unkind, but please don’t delay; his sister and I will be waiting.”

The next day the pastor made his way to the house. It was a large and beautiful home. Nervously, he knocked at the door. The lady of the house opened the door and was thrilled to see the pastor.

He is upstairs. We will be praying for you while you visit with him.” The pastor made his way up the winding staircase. His heart was beating quickly.

As he reached the landing, he came to the door. He knocked and waited. A very tall striking looking gentleman came to the door. The pastor explained that he was new in the area, was told of his condition, and asked to visit him.

Then he told him of his specific errand. “I have come to ask you to accept Christ as your Savior.” The old, distinguished man asked him to enter. “You see all these books?

They are all written by skeptics and infidels. In fact, I have written a few of them. But sir, they offer no substitute.

Here and now, I give you my hand and accept your invitation.” They then knelt, and a new soul was born into the kingdom.