Capitol Ministries

with the perplexed pastor. He explained that the Bible places a priority on ministering to kings and all who are in authority (1 Timothy 2:1–2, Acts 9:15), not only to secure precious souls in eternity, but also so that we may lead a tran- quil and quiet life in all godliness and dignity (1 Timothy 2:1–2). In other words, a conse- quence of our obedience to fulfill the Great Commission in this most effective way, will be to impact society for God. We met another church leader in Philadel- phia, PA who confessed to Nate Belkstrom, LGM Midwest regional director, "I have com- passion for the person on the street with body piercings and tattoos, but when it comes to pol- iticians, I have a stronghold in my heart." Nate offered this church leader the same scriptural references and biblical explanation that Torrey provided to the California pastor. "e lon- ger she talked, the more you could see that the Holy Spirit was touching her heart," said Nate. "It was like she was repenting on the spot." Led by Dr. Dan DeShong, LGM global director, and LGM regional directors, 30 CapMin team members participated in 19 PAD events and 12 national and regional meet- ings of Southern Baptist Conventions and Independent Baptists throughout the year all over the country. e events drew 22,741 par- ticipants and CapMin teams talked with many such pastors. We also distributed Ralph's book, All in Authority: Reigniting the Bible's Top- Down Missions Strateg y, which traces from the Old Testament to the New, the scriptural prior- ity of ministering to political leaders. We par- ticipated in the conferences in order to recruit ministry leaders to lead new Bible studies to city and county officials. We met our main objec- tive, and, propelled by the Holy Spirit, an equal- ly important secondary accomplishment was achieved. ose pastors and church leaders who were not aware of the priority the Bible places on ministering to political leaders, learned from CapMin team members what the Scriptures say about reaching all who are in authority with God's Word. And we rejoiced as the Holy Spirit demolished false beliefs and shattered strong- holds. Praise the Lord! Gene Sipprell Midwest Morris Webster Northeast Dan Marshall Southeast 19

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