Ever wonder what “ministry” is really all about? I have pastored for over twenty years in a variety of local church setting and I am often amazed at how many church ministry applications there are. There are as many philosophies as there are pastors. Pastors use a variety of approaches; from evangelism to discipleship. Each approach uses “ministry” applications. But, what is the ministry?
Jesus demonstrated it through service. The disciples demonstrated it through leadership. The early church demonstrated it through carefully defined theology. Today, we demonstrated ministry through programs. Today, the church of America is fully equipped with every kind of resource and activity. Pastors often act as recruiters in the pulpit rather than conveyor of truth.
Ministry has become a rather complex set of programmatic solutions. Church consultants are needed just to understand how to find the right approach. Purpose-driven, seeker-sensitive, worship-art help confuse the meaning of ministry. Day-cares and small groups are created to provide programmatic answers for select demographic groups. Ministry is happening but exactly what is happening remains a mystery.
I question whether there is a strategic pattern to ministry or is it just a random series of programmatic attempts! I am not sure what the answer is but one thing is for sure; the ministry of the local church is not reaching the unchurched neighbor as well as it can.
In Crisis Evangelism, the approach is neither programmatic nor random. It is an attempt to present Christ’s message of love at a time of greatest impact. Crisis Evangelism serves to care for, listen to and pray for those dealing with crisis. It is a ministry of Christ’s presence!
I am reminded of Luke 10 that talks about Jesus sending out the disciples. He instructs them that as they are welcomed in homes to tell people that the Kingdom of God has come near to them. It they are rejected, Jesus says to just move on! It is one of the best illustrations of how ministry can transform hearts through a care-giving effort of love.
The next time you think of ministry, think about this; the impact of the church is best felt by those who need a gentle touch and a kind word. This is not program-driven but rather human and godly intervention. It is by all means a ministry of….God’s presence.
