Thursday, September 28, 2006

Discussion: Every Christian's role in evangelism

In our pastor's Bible study class last night, we discussed the parable known to most as that of the "prodigal son" (Read all of Luke 15). I won't go into too many details, but the bottom line is: We should REJOICE when sinners come to repentance.

That's not such a hard thing for me. I am happy to see people who don't look like "typical" churchgoing folks show up at church and I wish there were even "stranger" people coming. (This was one of his examples.) And I see the Kingdom potential in many "sinners."

It's the practical application he shared that gets me: How burdened are we for the lost? We should have such a heart for those who don't know Christ that we're out there searching for them. (See the previous two parables and consider the father in the son parable.)

I don't think I'm quite there. What about you?

What's your understanding of the Bible's teaching on the subject? (Try to use Scripture to back up your answers.)

Is the "Great Commission" (Matthew 28:18-20) for only those disciples who were present, every individual Christian, or for the Church as a whole (each working in their respective assignments: making followers and teaching)?

Are we all to, like Jesus, seek the lost that they might be saved?

Should we get out of our comfort zone even if it means being a mouth when we are gifted as a hand or being an evangelist when we're called to teach? If we are neither mouth nor evangelist, is it merely as the opportunity presents itself that we are to follow the Holy Spirit's leading in sharing the Gospel?

Monday, September 18, 2006

Questions: Ready to Commit?

This is the last in a 6-part series of questions intended to help you find a long-term ministry in which to serve. Part one began with why we do or do not presently serve in a long-term ministry and to share what improvements we think our churches could make in this area. To get the most out of this series, I suggest you work from the beginning.

Are you considering volunteering to help in a ministry, but aren't yet sure whether it's for you? Here are a few questions to consider asking the ministry leader and some reflections to help in your decision.

What is the vision of the ministry? What does the ministry do and what does it stand for? What do you want to see happen? What have you seen happen as a result of this ministry? Are there any improvements you are wanting to make?
Reflect: Is the ministry glorifying to God? Does its purpose agree with your values?

What are the specific duties I would be performing? What do you think are the qualifications of an effective volunteer?
Reflect: How do these answers compare to your expectations? Is there anything you feel particularly suited to do?
What are some of the realities of the work? Are there any dangers or awkward situations? In what way does the church support volunteers in these challenges? What are the rewards of working in this ministry? (You may want to ask these questions of other volunteers in the ministry, too.)
Reflect: Are the challenges exciting to you? Are you encouraged by the support of the church? Do the rewards sound satisfying?

Decision Time: How well does the ministry opportunity fit with the way God made you? Is there anything about it that will force you to be too far removed from who you are? Sometimes it's good to make a stretch, but too much of a stretch can just burn you out.

If the ministry is one that complements your skills, drive, gifts and gears and you feel God is leading you in that direction, it's time to commit! Commit with your head, heart, and hands.

Monday, September 11, 2006

Questions: Brainstorming Exciting Ministries!

This is part five of a series of questions intended to help you find a long-term ministry in which to serve. Part one began with why we do or do not presently serve in a long-term ministry and to share what improvements we think our churches could make in this area. To get the most out of this series, I suggest you work from the beginning.

Now that you have formed a general profile of the way God has formed you, you are ready to brainstorm and compare opportunities. Have your answers from the last several entries in front of you.

If you could do anything in a ministry, even if the ministry doesn't already exist at your church, what would it be? Think creatively and try to incorporate your answers from the profile questions! It may be teaching basic skills from your job, mentoring teenagers in Bible study, or heading up an outdoor adventure retreat. Share your profile answers with others and ask for their ideas.

Do your ideal ministries coincide with any opportunities at your church? in a parachurch organization? Can you see a way to otherwise incorporate them into your life?

Is there something you've been sensing the Lord moving you to do? Pray about that and take appropriate action. For every step you take in line with God's will, you get closer to His ideal plan for your life here on earth: one that will give ultimate glory to Him!

Take it a step farther. Could you use the above answers to turn them into a full-time pursuit? If you're looking for work that's more than just a job, I highly suggest the book Live Your Calling by Kevin and Kay Marie Brennfleck. The assessments in that book will take you step by step through a process that will reveal how God has formed you to serve Him most effectively by living your calling.

Next, we look at some questions to ask when we're not quite sure if a ministry will fit.