01. Prepare: Health and Friendship Building Ministries
Prepare the soil of the heart
The first phase in the disciple-making process is to PREPARE the soil of the heart. When we come close to people in friendship and service, we show that we care and gain their confidence. Ministering to people’s practical needs with kindness and compassion prepares their hearts to receive the truth of the gospel.
ESTABLISH HEALTH AND FRIENDSHIP-BUILDING MINISTRIES:
- Elect Health ministry and community service leaders (Church Manual, p. 100, 107).
- Budget annually for need-based ministries and events.
- Assess local community needs (consider contacting civic leaders) along with church personnel and resources that could be used in health and friendship-building ministries and events.
- Plan events* to generate interest, meet needs, and build relationships in the community.
- Provide Leadership support - prayer, promotion, financial support, and participation.
Local church examples of health and friendship-building events include:
- Health Expos
- Cooking Schools
- Centers of Influence
- Free Dental Clinic
- Food & Clothing Ministries
- Disaster response
- Vacation Bible School
- Music Concerts
- Community Gardens
- Family Seminars
- Finance Seminars
- After School Programs
“Jesus...went about doing good” (Acts 10:38).
And when jesus went out He saw a great multitude; and He was moved with compassion for them, and healed their sick” (Matthew 14:14).
“Christ's method alone will give true success in reaching the people. The Saviour 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’” (The Ministry of Healing, p. 143).
“When properly conducted, the health work is an entering wedge, making a way for other truths to reach the heart” (Testimonies for the Church, vol. 6, p. 327).
“The sowers of the seed have a work to do in preparing hearts to receive the gospel” (Christ's Object Lessons, p. 57).