Could these days—with the pandemic scare, partisan division, and civil unrest—be an instrument for revival to occur in our land? Widespread spiritual revival may be closer than we realize if we, as followers of Christ, open our eyes to today’s opportunities.
Ministry
We need to be intentional in restoring our local church family members who’ve strayed.
People have been, and are, going through disheartening times; struggling with desolation, desperation, or ungodly dependencies. These aren’t distant problems. These things are affecting people we are close to—those in our community and, yes, within our very congregations!
Jesus heals the leper – a Bible lesson from Luke 5:12
People need hope, compassion, and belonging. But this world can be a lonely and brutal place. Many become ostrasized by society and are treated as loathsome. However uncomfortable it makes us, we need to reach out to them in Christlike love; telling them about Jesus’ mercy, forgiveness, acceptance, and redemption.
Sharing the gospel in love, gentleness, and respect
We aren’t called to argue for the gospel as an attorney. Instead, Jesus said, “You will receive power when the Holy Spirit comes on you, and you will be my witnesses” (Acts 1:8). Witnesses tell of what they have seen or heard firsthand. Our role is to lovingly testify to the gospel and to be witnesses to the reality of how God has worked in our lives.
The early church ministered to a man’s spirit, soul, and body
When a local church ministers to all three aspects within an individual (their spirit, soul, and body), it can make the difference between a relatively stagnant church and one that is making a fruitful impact for Christ in their community. The results can be seen in people being saved, growth of the church body, and spiritual growth in its individual members.
Recipient of 3 book awards – click on cover to learn more
