Mar 22
2018
Supernatural Life
In this video testimony from First Stone Ministries, Andrew Franklin recounts growing up as a praised church kid while secretly hiding deep shame over his effeminate identity. After coming out as gay and hitting rock bottom in New York City, Andrew surrendered to Jesus Christ and discovered for the first time that change was possible. Discipled into his true identity as a son of God, Andrew now devotes his life to speaking identity and destiny into other men — his greatest weakness becoming his greatest calling.
“Such Were Some of You” is a feature-length documentary showcasing the personal stories of over 29 people who left the gay lifestyle after experiencing profound change through faith in Jesus Christ. The film combines these testimonies with insights from theologians and PhDs, exploring the development of same-sex attraction, the process of leaving homosexuality, and the emotional and spiritual healing that followed. Inspired by 1 Corinthians 6:11, the documentary emphasizes that genuine transformation and healing are possible through Christ’s grace and power.
“Hope for the Homosexual” outlines First Stone Ministries’ approach to helping individuals overcome homosexuality and sexual struggles through faith, counseling, and support groups. Featuring the story of Stephen Black, a former homosexual transformed by his relationship with Christ, the article emphasizes that change is possible with biblical guidance and community. It documents the ministry’s origins, its compassionate approach to sexual brokenness, and testimonies of lives changed, ultimately offering hope and practical help rooted in Christian conviction.
Annette Morales grew up invisible — surviving parental abandonment, stepfather molestation, and a chaotic young adulthood before finding stability in marriage. After her husband Rudy's death from cancer, grief drove her into dangerous online sexual relationships that eventually exposed a child exploitation network. Her courageous decision to report the abuse marked a turning point. Through First Stone Ministries' Living Waters program, counseling, and a battle with stage four breast cancer, Annette discovered that God truly sees her — and that her identity is found in Him alone.
"How many of you feel that, within the last year, you’ve been through the most intense spiritual warfare you've ever experienced?" Almost the entire congregation raised their hands. It is as if the enemy knows that his time is short and he is coming against the people of God with great intensity. (Revelation 12:12)
"The Terrors of Hell" by William C. Nichols presents a thorough biblical case for the reality and eternity of hell, arguing that the doctrine is widely neglected yet critically important. The article explores why hell is necessary given God's infinite holiness and perfect justice, describes its torments in vivid scriptural detail, and addresses both believers and unbelievers with urgency. Its ultimate aim is not to frighten readers into faith, but to drive them toward genuine repentance and surrender to Jesus Christ.
James Ryle's article, Fire! Fire!, serves as a heartfelt warning about the dangers of ignoring the biblical teachings on hell. He argues that true love involves alerting others to impending danger, much like warning someone of a house fire. Ryle laments the growing disbelief in hell's existence and duration, asserting that such skepticism undermines the gravity of sin and the necessity of salvation through Jesus Christ. The piece is a passionate call to acknowledge the seriousness of eternal judgment and to act with compassion and urgency in sharing the gospel.
For people desiring to grow in their walk with Christ and experience freedom from sexual and relational brokenness, the Upper Room Community offers Christ-centered mentoring, discipleship and an intentional residential community. Same-sex attraction stems from relational wounds and dysfunction, and many participants experience healing and growth in the URC through the new, healthy relationships God brings together.
A curated reading list for parents and family members of those navigating same-sex attraction or sexual brokenness.
A curated reading list for spouses.