Illusionist tells youth to find supernatural power in Christ

By Lauren Urtel
March 13, 2008

ORLANDO (FBC)—Walking on broken glass unharmed and illuminating a light bulb with his bare hands, Christian illusionist Brock Gill captured the attention of more than 800 Florida Baptist youth attending the “Night Thing” event March 3 at the First Baptist Church of Orlando.

The event, held in conjunction with the 2008 iTell State Evangelism Conference, used creative evangelism to reach youth at their level.

The youth gasped in amazement as Gill performed one illusion after another, escaping handcuffs and even manipulating metal objects. The stunts were “just illusions,” said Gill used to capture attention so he could share the supernatural power of Jesus Christ.

“People have been looking around the world for real supernatural power and they are coming up empty handed,” said Gill. “I did find supernatural power in Jesus Christ.”

“I’ve got what you are looking for,” challenged Gill as he shared his faith with the students.

Gill told the students that growing up he called himself a Christian but that he had never accepted Jesus Christ as his personal savior. “Until that point, my life was an illusion,” said Gill.

He challenged the students to be strong in their faith and to share him with those around them. “If you are following Jesus you have to stand when everyone else is sitting, you have to go right when everyone else is going left. It isn’t easy but Jesus is standing with you and he will give you strength I can’t even explain.”

“After hearing his message, I want to invite my friends to church,” said Brittany Koziara, a junior at Boone High School. “I feel like if I have faith and walk in His light daily, that I can achieve anything.”

Twenty-four students came forward to accept Christ as their personal savior at the conclusion of the Night Thing.

Creative evangelism events like the Night Thing “connects with young people where they are at,” said Jeff Hessinger, director of the Florida Baptist Convention’s Personal Evangelism department who put on the event. “It sparks enthusiasm recognizing the event is just for them.”

The Personal Evangelism department partners with churches and associations annually to bring events like this to Florida, said Hessinger. “We are always looking for outstanding ministry leaders willing to host events like this aimed at successfully reaching young people.”