Portland, Oregon
My stay in Portland was for two weeks of ministry and then I caught a flight back to Virginia for a week. West Hills Baptist Church was home base for me. Pastor Gregory Sanders and the church family received me as their own. Settled in, I set out to discover places and events that many might be impacted for Christ. The past stops in Eugene and Salem had but a few and I was hopeful that Portland would be much different. Here’s a little about what happened.
The first place I preached was Pioneer Square which is the public square. This downtown attraction had three major draws; the surrounding retail department stores, small entertainment venues and public transit system. The crowd here was diverse and so were the responses to the message of The Cross. Pioneer Square became the focal point of ministry. Although railers came and went, encouragement came by way of those I saw who seemed to listen intently for a while. When my time here was done; the gospel had been preached around, through and on every corner of Pioneer Square.
Another place was the Portland Farmers Market down by the riverside on Saturday which had a steady flow of traffic. I set up across the street at a busy intersection and pleaded for souls. Because, I know the Love of God through the Person of Jesus Christ and the Power of the Holy Spirit therefore, I cannot but proclaim:
This gate of the LORD, into which the righteous shall enter. (Psalm 118:20)
Nor am I ashamed of the gospel of Christ: for it is the power of God unto salvation to everyone that believes; (Romans 1:16)
And the lord said unto the servant, Go out into the highways and hedges, and compel them to come in, that my house may be filled. (Luke 14:23)
And saying the time is fulfilled and the kingdom of God is at hand: repent ye and believe the gospel. (Mark 1:15)
Now then we are ambassadors for Christ, as though God did beseech you by us: we pray you in Christ’s stead, be ye reconciled to God. (2 Corinthians 5:20)
Here’s a link to Video excerpts taken Saturday July 6th, 2013 Downtown Portland, Oregon as many went in and out of the farmers market.
As my second week in Portland was coming to an end I was blessed to have Brother Rob’s company as co laborer in the proclamation of the gospel. Friday evening we met at the square and took turns preaching at a couple different locations. Here’s what Rob posted about this on his Facebook Friday July 12th, 2013;
“The gospel went forth tonight in downtown Portland tonight as David Banton and myself brought the truth to lost sinners. There was opposition, and the police told us we cannot use amplification at all in the city of Portland without a permit. This was actually my first run in with the authorities. The validity of the scriptures was questioned, moral relativism was discussed, and we were told that we were a stumbling block to Christ for preaching the gospel. One thing is true; Jesus Christ is still turning this world upside down 2000 years after He was crucified. To God be the glory.”
That’s how street ministry concluded in Portland. On Saturday I flew to Virginia and returned in 8 days to continue; The Journey 50 States One True Story Jesus!!!
Thanks to Pastor Gregory at West Hills Baptist Church my Jesus truck and trailer were as I left them.
The four weeks in the State of Oregon are done (the time has passed) and only God knows what will remain after all to “The Glory of God!”
My beloved brethren in Virginia and those scattered abroad “Thank You” for your prayers and every support!
Until next week and God willing I will write to you again from the State of Washington.
Agape, David