Now is the Time

Faith Under FireIn the early hours of another sleepless night in Kyiv, air raid sirens echoed through the city as missiles and drones struck residential neighborhoods. One apartment building collapsed into a mountain of concrete and smoke. Rescue workers clawed through the rubble searching for survivors. For many Ukrainians, this has become a grim rhythm of life. Yet even amid war, the gospel continues to shine.Recently, Caleb interviewed Ukrainian pastor, professor, and volunteer chaplain Andrii Murzin in Kyiv to discuss how the war has affected the church, the preaching of the gospel, and the spiritual challenges facing Christians in Ukraine today.A Ministry Shaped by WarAndrii Murzin serves at Kyiv Theological Seminary as the director of the Master's program in biblical counseling. His ministry focuses on discipleship, counseling, and helping Christians understand how to minister effectively within Eastern Orthodox culture. But since Russia's full-scale invasion in 2022, his ministry has expanded beyond classrooms and lecture halls. Andrii also serves as a volunteer chaplain to soldiers affected by the war.Andrii on the far left When the war became much closer and much more intense and much more obvious that it is our war not somebody else's war. I realized that as a Christian I have to be active. I cannot ignore that it's the area of one of the biggest needs. For Andrii, chaplain ministry is not political theater. It is obedience to Christ. He pointed to Matthew 25 and reflected that if Jesus were physically walking through Ukraine today, He might say:He could have said I was in prison, I was in the hospital, l and I was in the trenches and you did not visit me.When War Comes to Your DoorstepThe interview itself took place only hours after one of the largest attacks on Kyiv in recent months. Andrii and his wife had chosen to sleep at the seminary that night rather than remain in their high-rise apartment on the 15th floor. Throughout the night they heard explosions nearby as drones and missiles struck the city. By morning, an entire section of a residential building had collapsed. Caleb described watching rescue workers pull bodies from the rubble only a short distance away from where they were filming.For Ukrainian believers, war is no longer distant news. It is outside their windows, above their rooftops, and sometimes directly over their heads.“We Are Fighting for Survival”One of the strongest themes Andrii emphasized was that Ukrainians do not see this war primarily as a battle over territory. I think it's important for the western audience to understand that Ukrainians are fighting for our survival.He explained that many Western narratives oversimplify the conflict as a political dispute over borders. But Ukrainians view it differently. They believe Russia seeks to erase Ukraine as a nation and suppress its identity, language, and freedom. This fear is not rooted merely in speculation, but in history. Andrii referenced the long history of Soviet oppression, mass killings, and persecution that Ukrainians endured under the Russian Empire and later the Soviet Union. Because of this history, many Ukrainians believe surrender would not end suffering, but instead deepen it.Religious FreedomMurzin challenged a common misconception heard in some Western Christian circles; that Ukraine and Russia are spiritually or morally equivalent. According to him, the difference in religious freedom is enormous. In Ukraine, evangelical churches have enjoyed broad freedom to preach the gospel since the fall of the Soviet Union. Churches openly evangelize, serve in schools, minister to soldiers, and conduct outreach across society.By contrast, he described Russia as increasingly authoritarian, where churches are expected to support state ideology and where religious groups with Western ties are often treated with suspicion or hostility. Many reports have also surged from occupied Ukrainian territories where priests and pastors from multiple denominations have been killed or persecutedThe Church in a Time of TestingWar has created both opportunities and pressures for the Ukrainian church. On one hand, churches are serving refugees, supporting soldiers, and ministering to grieving families. Thousands of Ukrainians who previously showed little spiritual interest are now suddenly confronting questions about death, eternity, and hope.[War] makes all people think about eternity, about your soul, about God, and spiritual issues.Chaplain ministry, especially among men in the military, has opened doors many churches struggled to reach before the invasion.Yet the war has also exposed fear within the church itself. Ukraine's military mobilization affects nearly every congregation. Some men avoid traveling across cities out of fear of being drafted. Others wrestle with anxiety about serving near the front lines. Andrii spoke carefully and compassionately about this reality, acknowledging the fear many experience. He himself was once detained and taken to a draft center. Still, he believes the gospel directly confronts humanity's deepest fear - death. He referenced Hebrews 2 and explained that Christ frees believers from slavery to the fear of death through His victory on the cross....So that by his death he might break the power of him who holds the power of death—that is, the devil— and free those who all their lives were held in slavery by their fear of death. - Hebrews 2:14-15Murzin emphases on the fact that this is a time when our actions have to prove that we really believe what we preach.The Gospel Still AdvancesEven in the middle of war, many churches in Ukraine have become places of refuge and hope for people who have lost homes, family members, or any sense of stability. Christians across the country continue sharing the gospel, serving their communities, and pointing people to Christ while daily life is still marked by uncertainty and air raid sirens. The war has turned Ukraine into both a battlefield and a mission field. And through the smoke, sorrow, and uncertainty, many Christians there continue proclaiming the same message the church has carried for centuries - Christ remains Lord, even in wartime.

Conversations surrounding the gospel, identity, and sexuality can often feel difficult, emotional, and complicated. Yet as Christians, the way we approach people matters deeply. Truth should never be separated from grace, and grace should never ignore truth. In these moments, our attitude, focus, and love for others can make a lasting difference.

When we share the gospel, what actually matters?Do we need to address someone's sexual identity? Does it make a difference whether a person identifies as heterosexual, homosexual, lesbian, bisexual, or transgender when presenting the message of Christ? These questions aren't theoretical anymore. They're part of real conversations happening every day. And compared to a few decades ago, something has shifted. More people who identify as part of the LGBTQ community also identify as Christians. That reality means this topic can't be ignored, but it also can't be handled carelessly.Why This Topic MattersThere are strong emotions on every side. Some are quick to call non-traditional sexual identities sinful but struggle to explain why from Scripture. Others argue that the Bible affirms or permits them. Both approaches often skip something essential: a clear and careful understanding of what the Bible actually teaches. Before we can talk about how the gospel relates to sexual identity, we need to understand the Bible's foundation for human sexuality.The Biblical Foundation for SexualityScripture begins this conversation in Genesis. In chapter one, humanity is created in God's image as male and female. So God created mankind in his own image, in the image of God he created them; male and female he created them. Genesis 1:27This distinction is presented as intentional, not accidental. In the next chapter, marriage is introduced. A man and a woman are brought together and described as becoming “one flesh.” That is why a man leaves his father and mother and is united to his wife, and they become one flesh. - Genesis 2:24This becomes the pattern that the rest of the Bible builds on. From the beginning, the picture is consistent: humanity is created as male and female, marriage is between a man and a woman, and sexual intimacy belongs within that relationship.A Consistent Pattern in ScriptureAs the Bible unfolds, this framework doesn't change. Both the Old and New Testaments speak about sexuality within these boundaries. Sex before marriage, adultery, and other forms of sexual behavior outside this design are addressed as sin. Within that same framework, same-sex sexual behavior is also described as outside of God's intended design in several passages like Leviticus 18:22, Romans 1:26-27, and 1 Corinthians 6:9. It's important to note that Scripture does not present any positive example of a same-sex relationship. Every reference appears within a broader picture of humanity moving away from God's design.What About Jesus?Some say Jesus' silence on LGBTQ topics means the issue isn't central. But when He speaks about marriage in Matthew 19, He points back to Genesis—affirming male and female and the union of a man and a woman. He doesn't redefine the standard; He reinforces it. In doing so, He treats the creation account as the authority for understanding marriage and sexuality.Within that same conversation, Jesus also mentions “eunuchs,” which is where some confusion comes in. In context, this refers to men who do not marry, not to alternative sexual identities. The focus of that passage is on singleness and devotion to God, not redefining sexuality. So even though Jesus doesn't use modern categories or labels like gay, lesbian, etc., His teaching still clearly supports the same design for marriage found in GenesisWhere This Leaves UsWhen we step back and see the full picture of Scripture, its teaching on sexuality is consistent and grounded in God's design. But that truth is meant to lead us somewhere. The gospel calls us beyond debate into redemption. It reminds us that every one of us comes as a sinner in need of grace. No label defines someone beyond God's ability to save, and no one approaches Him on the basis of their own righteousness. That means our response must reflect both the truth of His Word and the grace of His heart.‍‍

A Testimony of Truth and TransformationWhat happens when someone raised to believe they have the truth begins to question everything?In a recent episode of the Gospel Today Podcast, Caleb Suko sits down with Melek Steele to explore that very question. Melek's story is of a man deeply formed by the Jehovah's Witness worldview, who eventually found himself confronting its inconsistencies and searching for something more.A Life Shaped by the WatchtowerMelek was a third-generation member of the Jehova's Witnesses, raised from childhood in the structure and teachings of the Watchtower Society. Like many young men in the organization, he was trained early—participating in ministry school, learning how to engage people at their doorstep, and developing the skills necessary to represent the faith publicly. By his late teens, Melek was fully immersed in the community. He served at Bethel, the headquarters of Jehovah's Witnesses, and was on a clear path toward leadership. His life revolved around the organization—its teachings, its mission, and its community. From the outside, it appeared structured, disciplined, and unified. But as he would later discover, appearances can be deceiving.Young Melek serving in the Watchtower SocietyCracks Beneath the SurfaceInterestingly, Melek's initial doubts did not come from theological disagreements but rather from lived experiences. As he took on more responsibility within the organization, particularly in shepherding roles, he began to notice a disconnect between the polished image presented publicly and the realities behind the scenes. Situations involving internal conflict and the mishandling of serious issues raised questions he could not ignore. These moments planted seeds of doubt. If this was the “truth,” why did it not align with the integrity and transparency one would expect? Still, walking away was not simple. When your identity, family history, and entire worldview are tied to a belief system, questioning it feels like stepping into the unknown. Melek described this tension clearly:When you believe something to be the only way your entire life and you watch somebody give their life for these beliefs, you feel like if this isn't the truth then there must not be a truth..The Long Road OutLeaving the Jehovah's Witness organization was not a sudden decision. It was a gradual, often painful process that unfolded over several years. Melek began to investigate other belief systems, exploring philosophy and even Eastern religions like Buddhism. While these offered certain insights or practices, they ultimately left him unsatisfied. They lacked something essential—an answer to the deeper questions of truth, purpose, and salvation.At the same time, Melek returned to the Bible, but with a critical difference: he began reading a translation outside of the Jehovah's Witness framework. This allowed him to examine Scripture without the interpretive lens he had always been given. What he found was striking. Certain key passages—particularly those relating to the nature of Christ—stood in direct contrast to what he had been taught. Passages like John 1 and Hebrews 1 began to take on new meaning. The more he studied, the more he realized that the issue was not just organizational inconsistency, but doctrinal error.The Central Question: Who Is Jesus?Everything in Melek's journey ultimately hinged on a clearly defining question: the true identity of Jesus Christ. Jehovah's Witnesses teach that Jesus is not God, but a created being—they view him as the archangel Michael. This fundamentally alters the understanding of the Gospel. If Christ is not fully God, then His sacrifice is reduced to that of a mere man. Melek came to see that this view could not account for the full testimony of Scripture. The Bible presents Christ not only as Savior, but as divine, eternal, uncreated, and worthy of worship. This realization drastically changed everything. If Jesus is truly God, then the Gospel is not simply about a man dying for others. It is about God Himself entering human history, taking on flesh, and accomplishing what no mere human could. The weight and power of salvation rest entirely on who Christ is.Sharing the Gospel with Jehovah's WitnessesOne of the most practical aspects of this conversation is Melek's insight into how to engage with Jehovah's Witnesses today.Rather than approaching conversations with confrontation or debate, he emphasizes patience and humility. Many Jehovah's Witnesses are deeply committed, often sacrificing relationships and personal opportunities for their faith. This level of investment cannot be undone in a single conversation. Instead, Melek suggests a relational approach to build trust. He urges people to demonstrate genuine Christian love - to live out the Gospel in a way that challenges the assumption that fulfillment is found only within the organization. He also highlights the importance of understanding their perspective. Are they motivated by fear, tradition, or sincere concern for others? Identifying this can shape how you respond. Finally, he encourages the use of Scripture—particularly their own translation—combined with clear, logical reasoning. Since Jehovah's Witnesses value structured thinking, showing inconsistencies within their framework can be effective over time.A Story That Points Beyond ItselfMelek's journey is ultimately not just about leaving one belief system but finding truth.In a world filled with competing claims, his story reminds us that the question of Jesus' identity is not a minor theological detail—it is the foundation of everything. Getting that question right changes not only doctrine, but ones eternal perspective. And perhaps most importantly, it reminds us that behind every door knock, every conversation, and every belief system, there are real people searching, questioning, and in need of the truth that sets them free.‍

Sharing the gospel with atheists requires both truth and compassion. Rather than arguing, focus on understanding and meaningful conversation. While belief in God is reasonable, arguments alone don't change hearts. Point people to God's love, mercy, and truth, and trust Him to work, as many reject Him for personal, not intellectual, reasons.

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After years of war, Ukrainian churches have grown stronger and more focused. They emphasize the gospel, meet practical needs, avoid political division, speak honestly about suffering, and live with an eternal perspective, showing that faith can deepen and thrive even in the hardest circumstances.

Around 70% of Ukrainians identify as Orthodox, often as a cultural tradition rather than personal faith. In this episode of Gospel Today, I share practical ways to share the gospel with Orthodox friends: finding common ground, showing respect, opening Scripture together, and continually pointing to the simple truth of salvation by grace through faith in Christ alone.

What does gospel ministry look like when war becomes daily life? *Read the whole story In this video, The post Hope On Ukraine's Front Lines: Oleksandr Radin first appeared on The Suko Family.

Born in the Soviet Union where faith was forbidden, Christina's journey reveals how God's grace broke through the walls of communism and continues to shine through the darkness of war. The post Childhood in the Soviet Union to Serving Christ in Ukraine first appeared on The Suko Family.

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Two murders have shaken us in recent days. Charlie Kirk was shot and killed in front of thousands as he debated university students in Utah. The post The Murder of Charlie Kirk and the Idol of Safety first appeared on The Suko Family.

What drives a Ukrainian pastor to trade his pulpit for the frontlines of war? In this interview, Chaplain Andriy Zalishuk shares his extraordinary journey from pastoring a small church to walking alongside Ukrainian soldiers in the trenches. The post He Used to Be a Regular Pastor first appeared on The Suko Family.

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Description:Forgiveness is one of the most powerful—and most difficult—acts we are called to as followers of Jesus. The post What Is Forgiveness? first appeared on The Suko Family.

Our ministry has changed a lot since the start of the full scale invasion. Like it or now the conditions around you can have a powerful negative or positive affect on how you share the gospel. The post How Wartime Changes The Gospel first appeared on The Suko Family.

Recently, I've heard claims—mainly from conservative media in the West—suggesting that the Ukrainian government is persecuting churches. Is this true? In this video, The post Persecution of Christians in Ukraine first appeared on The Suko Family.

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As we look at the Bible it doesn't take long to find out that the sexuality of mankind as a central part of creation.

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