All the church is concerned about is money. Why don’t they take some of that money and help their communities? They’re not doing what Jesus would do.
How many times have we heard this refrain? Is it true? Do churches benefit their communities? Are they ministering outside their own walls?
Are you aware that many food banks were started by Christians and/or churches? Our local church food bank is so big that we service several other smaller churches from it. Twice a month we give food away at our church to 250 families. Then we send out 3 mobile food banks to areas where people have trouble getting transportation to our church. This serves several hundred more people.
We also have a backpack of food that we give to several area public schools to distribute as they see need. We even grow our own vegetables in a garden on church property.
We have paid people’s electric bills. One church changed car oil for single mothers for free. Many churches provide free or reduced rate marriage, substance abuse or sexual addiction counseling and support groups. Some have prison ministry programs, like Prison Fellowship. Several churches in our area support the local Interfaith Shelter for homeless people. Others support City Rescue Missions.
Some support Crisis Pregnancy Centers, which provide support, counseling and supplies for pregnant women who don’t chose to abort their babies. Some support Resale Stores that provide low cost or pay-as-you-can for gently used items such as clothes, dishes, toys, furniture, etc. These proceeds usually go to local area ministries.
The Salvation Army and Saint Vincent de Paul receive support from local Christians and churches. Many churches support Boy & Girl Scout type groups. Many of the free medical clinics have been started by Christians/churches/para-church organizations. Some churches provide job training and assistance skills as well as tutoring for people and school children.
There are so many more things that Christians, churches and para-church organizations do.
One researcher produced a report showing the value that these and other things have been in areas like crime, sex attitudes, education, etc. Its at www.christianapologeticsalliance.com/2016/02/18/americas-blessings-how-religion-benefits-everyone-including-atheists/.
You can also take the free class called “How Christianity Changed the World” at http://BSSSB-LLC.om/video-courses-overview. It talks about the impact Christianity has had on the world. The impact is amazing. Name one other group that has had this kind of impact on society. And the Church has been doing it for 2,000 years. All because Jesus said to ‘feed my sheep’ (Matthew 25:36), ‘feed the hungry, cloth the naked and heal them’ (John 21:17). Is there more that we can do? You bet! So, roll up your sleeves, pitch in and help by giving your time, talent and money to these Christian ministries.
So, do you appreciate your church and those who minister to a hurting world a little more now?
For His Kingdom,
Dave Maynard
http://BSSSB-LLC.com
