Four Dimensions of Christian Ministry

 

“And that he died for all, that they which live should not henceforth live unto themselves, but unto him which died for them, and rose again.” (2 Corinthians 5:15).

Edward F. Lundwall, Jr.

The individual Christian and the Body of Christ experience growth through an attitude of ministry. Ministry is the privileged work of the Church. It involves:

1. Proclamation, initiation by baptism, and formation in the fundamentals of the Faith.

2. Discipleship that encourages Bible study, prayer, regular attendance at worship, and endurance in the face of conflict, persecution, and worldly pressures.

3. Protection of and provision for the world's needy: orphans, prisoners, the poor, the sick, the abandoned, etc.

4. All ministry should be motivated by the sinner's love of Jesus Christ who died for all. There is no place for ego, personal kingdom building, or exhibitionism.

Focus on these four areas of ministry builds up the individual and the Body of Christ. Clergy and church councils should make these a priority. 

Related reading: Put Handles on Your Faith; On God's Terms; Formed and Informed by the Bible