by Roger Hernandez, Ministerial Director, Southern Union
Here is a quote we know very well:
"Christ's method alone will give true success in reaching the people. The Savior mingled with men as one who desired their good. He showed His sympathy for them, ministered to their needs, and won their confidence. Then He bade them, "Follow Me." (Ministry of Healing 143-144)
Here is quote that we don't share as often. (Hint - it follows the previous one!)
"There is need of coming close to the people by personal effort. If less time were given to sermonizing, and more time were spent in personal ministry, greater results would be seen. The poor are to be relieved, the sick cared for, the sorrowing and the bereaved comforted, the ignorant instructed, the inexperienced counseled. We are to weep with those that weep, and rejoice with those that rejoice. Accompanied by the power of persuasion, the power of prayer, the power of the love of God, this work will not, cannot, be without fruit." (Ministry of Healing 143-144)
This quote bundles evangelism and service. Here are some principles to remember:
a. A service lifestyle is part of a divine expectation. It would be helpful to understand that when standing before our maker, instead of asking us to recite the eschatological timeline, God asks "what did you do about my children who needed help?" (Matthew 25:34-36)
b. A service lifestyle takes us out of our comfort zone. It's more than outreach, its reaching out. Even to those who don't look, believe, speak, or act like us. That includes our enemies! (Matthew 5:46-48)
c. A service lifestyle breaks down barriers. It's all about love, and love can indeed conquer all. When we express love, we break down preconceived concepts about the church and God. Most people, when they think about church, associate it more with asking for things than giving you things. Service goes a long way to change that perception.
Remember, there are 37 recorded miracles of Jesus in the New Testament. There is one written sermon of Jesus (Mat. 5-7). Remember the initial quote? "If less time were given to sermonizing, and more time were spent in personal ministry, greater results would be seen."
Questions to ponder with your church leaders:
1. What are some creative ways your church is reaching the community?
2. If money was no object, what would you do? What project would you start?
Discuss these ideas with Roger on our Best Practices Facebook page.