“I’m perfect!!!!!!”
November 2025 UPDATE
“For by one sacrifice he has made PERFECT forever those who are being made holy” (Hebrews 10:14).
“Turn to your neighbor and say, ‘I’m perfect!’”
I said that line early on in my message this past Sunday, and as expected, everyone hesitated. Can we really say such a thing in church? Isn’t only God perfect? I then explained that while it may sound shocking at first, this is exactly what Scripture declares. Because of the sacrifice of Jesus, God now looks at us with no condemnation—as if we are truly perfect in His sight (Romans 8:1; Hebrews 10:14). When we understand this and begin to think like free people, that is what empowers us to actually live in real freedom.
If you’re interested in hearing the full message I had the privilege of preaching this past Sunday, you can watch it here:
Big Things Are Happening
These past few months have felt like the beginning of something significant that God is doing here in Indonesia! A couple months ago, our Chi Alpha community hit a new record attendance: 161 students gathering to hear about how to connect with God.
We had more students than leaders available to translate that night, so some of our Muslim students actually stepped in and helped translate the message so that other Muslim students could understand the gospel. Yes, you read that right—Muslims were translating the gospel for other Muslims! Only God could have orchestrated something like that.
Some students are turning to Jesus. Many others—who have not yet taken that step—are asking deep, sincere questions. There is an unmistakable hunger for truth.
A couple weeks ago, I was asked to speak to our Chi Alpha students (about 80% of whom are Muslim) on the topic “Why Do Bad Things Happen?” I explained how we live in a fallen world where all of us have rejected God and we are living in the results of that, but I also shared how God can take any bad situation and turn it for good. I pointed to the cross and how God turned the worst day in history into the best day.
For some of our Muslim students, this was their first time ever hearing the gospel clearly presented in this way. I ended by reframing the question: considering all the ways we have rejected God, and yet he continues to bless us, maybe a better question is, “Why do good things happen?”
Big Changes Are Coming
We’re entering a season of major leadership transitions here in Jogja. Some of our team members are moving to new cities to take on new ministry assignments. Others are returning to the U.S. for itineration. I personally plan to stay here, but there is no denying that our community will look very different a few months from now. Even so, when I look at what God is doing and all the amazing things taking place, I have full confidence that He will continue the good work He has begun (Philippians 1:6).
Prayer Requests:
For our team during this major leadership transition — Pray that God would provide clarity, wisdom, and direction.
For health — There has been a lot of sickness spreading through our community recently.
For safety on the roads — Motorbikes outnumber cars 10 to 1 here in Jogja, and most of our team relies on them every day. A couple weeks ago, I experienced what could be called my first motorbike accident. It was very minor, and I walked away without even a scratch on me — praise God! But this was a reminder of how much we depend on God daily for His protection.
Terima kasih untuk doa kalian! / Thank you for your prayers!
I am so grateful for your support and partnership. God is moving, and you are a part of the story!