In the Gospel of Matthew, Jesus provides a hidden camera view into God's heart with his comments regarding the final judgment: "When you visited them (prisoners, orphans, and hungry) you visited me—enter into the joy of your reward" (Matthew 25:35-37, NIV). Jesus makes what seemed obvious to him, apparent to his followers by pointing out that it counted to him when they anonymously cared for ...

Topics:	Compassion, Evangelism, Kindness, Seekers, Service, Spiritual friendship, Unchurched
Filters:	Evangelism, Outreach, Service
Purpose:	None
References:	Matthew 10:42, Matthew 25:35-37
Date Added:	July 11, 2007

Here is a simple activity to improve the process for connecting newcomers into the life of your church. Simply spend the first 10 minutes writing your answers to the three questions, and then spend the next 10 to 15 minutes discussing them with the team.

First, list at least three key strengths of your church. For example, you may write, "Our church provides ...

Topics:	Assimilation, Community, Growth, Hospitality, New members, Newcomers, Visitors & guests
Filters:	Church staff, Discipleship, Elder, Greeter, Hospitality, Outreach, Pastor, Usher
Purpose:	Ministry
References:	Matthew 25:31-46, 1 Peter 4:9-10
Date Added:	July 31, 2007

About three years ago, a man in our church wondered if there wasn't something we could do for the homeless in our community. He began driving to the shelter each Sunday, offering a ride to anyone who wanted to come to church. No board or committee discussed this in advance. There were no strategic planning sessions, just new faces showing up.

Eventually conversations were rife among board members ...

Topics:	Communication, Cross-cultural outreach, Culture, Diversity, Generational differences, Service, Unchurched, Unity
Filters:	Church staff, Elder, Evangelism, Outreach, Pastor, Service, Worship, Worship leader
Purpose:	Evangelism
References:	Matthew 25:35-40
Date Added:	July 31, 2007