Questions and Answers with Raul Ries

Somebody Loves You Crusades - cont.

Q. Does your message appeal to a secular society?

A. I believe it does, God uses man to bring His message to a hurting world. The times are changing and we need to respond. I do not propose compromise since Gods message is timeless and must not be changed. However, I seek ways to proclaim the Gospel so that it is understood by all who hear.


Q. Are the Somebody Loves You Crusades a function of Calvary Chapel Golden Springs?

A. They are, in that Calvary Chapel participates in the Crusades as part of the Christian community. Somebody Loves You Crusades are a cross-denominational effort of the body of Christ to reach our communities with the Gospel of Jesus Christ. It is a joint effort of the pastors and congregations from each community where a crusade is held.


Q. Does your burden for the youth play a part in the crusades?

A. Yes, most decisions for Christ are made by young people, and our desire is to educate them to become the leaders of tomorrow. The Bible offers the following advice in 1 Timothy 4:12: "Let no one look down on your youthfulness, but rather in speech, conduct, love, faith and purity show yourself an example of those who believe." Fortunately, our desire to reach the youth has not limited the age of those in attendance. The crusades attract a wide variety of ages; in fact, we have found that more and more young people are bringing their parents to these meetings.


Q. What is it about your style that crosses cultural boundaries and age groups?

A. God’s Word is the tool that crosses these boundaries, not my style. God has blessed me with a diverse background, such as my Vietnam experience, training in the martial arts and education. Through these experiences, many people identify with my life. It is God’s Holy Spirit that has changed my life and shaped my message.


Q. How do these experiences help you in ministry?

A. God has used these experiences to develop discipline in my life, helping me to run with endurance the race that is set before me. God has blessed me through education. I have progressed from being unable to read, to earning a doctorate. I pray that my background has been an example for others that all things are possible through Christ.


Q. What are your plans for Somebody Loves You Crusades in the future?

A. We have reached capacity attendance in many of the venues we are currently using. We hope to expand into larger arenas. My desire is to take the Gospel message across the United States and to the world.