Twenty-two years ago I was asked to come from California to Idaho in order to teach and lead worship at Koinonia House. Chuck was away leading a tour to Israel, and I would be the guest speaker. Shortly thereafter, I was asked to move my family to Coeur d’Alene and join the K-House staff.
At one point, Chuck asked me to begin teaching a Bible study on Thursday nights in the studio. With some hesitation, I agreed. I did not feel equipped to teach in a ministry that served the likes of those who followed the depth and style provided by Chuck Missler. At any rate, with encouragement from Chuck and Nancy, I began. To my surprise, Chuck and Nan attended the study, sat on the front row, and in a way only Chuck would do — took notes. Talk about intimidation — I could not have been more uncomfortable. Nonetheless, I taught, Chuck and Nancy listened, and invited others also.
Twenty-one years have passed and I remain pastor at Candlelight Christian Fellowship here in Coeur d’Alene. It is the outgrowth and development of that small group I taught at K-House. Chuck wanted me to start a church and apparently so did the Lord. I don’t know what would have happened if Chuck hadn’t insisted I teach a Bible study.
Over the years, Chuck attended Candlelight and supported us all along the way. We had our moments of disagreement, but in the end he loved me and I loved him. It was a good relationship. Chuck influenced my teaching and teaching style. He provided me with every K-House product I ever needed/wanted and always told those looking for a Bible-teaching church to come find Candlelight. Chuck was a Barnabas (son of encouragement) to me at a time when I needed him. I am ever grateful for his support, friendship, and love.
Chuck is at least in part responsible for the spiritual development of multitudes around the world, many churches, and the souls of men and women who have been introduced to the Gospel of our Lord Jesus Christ. His unique style and integration of the sciences and business practices allowed his teaching to develop at a level few fully grasp. His God-given gifts have given apologetic support to the thinking man and woman — and through which many have come to the faith. God uses men and women to preach, reach, and teach others with the glorious Gospel of our Lord Jesus Christ. Chuck was willing to be used — and I am glad!
I long for the day when we will all be gathered together around the throne giving praise and honor to the Lord.
Chuck was and is my friend. I will miss our phone calls and moments together — until we see each other again, face to face, in the presence of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ!
Paul D. Van Noy
Pastor, Candlelight Christian Fellowship
Coeur d’Alene, Idaho
