New witnessing tool aimed at gamblers

BERRYVILLE, Ark. — Whether Christians should gamble or not is one of this country's most hotly debated theological topics.

Statistically, poker is one of the nation's fastest-growing leisure pastimes. Currently there are more than a dozen TV programs on at least six networks that feature poker or other recreational gambling activities. Poker took over as the No. 1 search term on Lycos' Top 50 list and online search activity for "poker" is up 111 percent.

According to an article posted to Bible.com, studies show that lotteries are the favorite legal gambling game for teen-agers. Statistically, one of seven who play will become addicted. But teen-agers aren't the only ones affected. One out of 10 adults who gamble will become addicted, too.

Now, in a unique spin on the traditional pocket coin used in poker games, Kerusso has introduced "Faith Chips." Faith Chips are actual colorful, round poker chips that are used to share the gospel in a relevant way.

"Faith Chips are not just designed to carry around as a personal reminder—but as a mini tract to hand out," a company new release said.

Five designs with messages on the front and back are available on 11.5-gram chips. The clever sayings include: "Don’t gamble with eternity. Accept Jesus before you cash in your chips" and "Jesus knows how to hold 'em. No one can take you out of his hand."

The messages are designed to persuade nonbelievers against gambling with their eternal souls, but could also be used to help a believing gambler kick the gambling habit.

"Because poker is so popular right now, the designs of the chip create a curiosity about the message," said Kerusso President Vic Kennett.

"It's really no different than using something ordinary, like a T-shirt, to share the gospel,” he said. “The authentic look and feel of the chips will make it likely that people will hang onto them and ponder the meaning of the messages."

Two free acrylic displays hold 200 pieces for $100. Suggested retail is 99 cents. Kerusso expects customers to show interest in purchasing entire sets for recreation or game rooms. For more information, visit kerusso.com.

Assist News Service
Published by Keener Communications Group, September 2005

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