GET INVOLVED
SERVING OTHERS
Here are some ways to serve others. Click on the titles to learn more about each topic:
DISCIPLESHIP
"Therefore go and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit, and teaching them to obey everything I have commanded you. And surely I am with you always, to the very end of the age." Matthew 28:19-20
Find a local organization or church ministry group that is meeting a need in the community, and be a part of it. If you know of a need that is not being met in your community, do something about it.
MISSION TRIPS
Sometimes a change of environment can help us live out our calling to serve the Lord and others. Consider going on a short-term or long-term mission trip overseas or in your country.
SERVE IN OTHER NATIONS
If you are considering serving overseas, here are some resources for you. These resources are designed to support individuals who may be overseas with work or school, and would also like to help advance the kingdom in their region. If you would like to serve in a part-time or on a temporary basis, helping and learning from the local missionaries and churches can be a good place to start.
Research the country, language and culture before you travel. Understanding more about the culture and being able to communicate with the people will go a long way, even if you only know basic phrases and courtesies. Learn about requirements for insurance, visas, and laws governing international missions.
IDENTIFY THE NEED
Whether you are supporting a local church or reaching out to the community, find out what the needs are so that you can help meet those needs. People do not care how much you know, until they know how much you care. Be there for others and you will have an opportunity to speak into their lives.
COME TOGETHER
We are one team and one body, partnering together to serve the Lord. Find out where and who the believers and missionaries are in your area. Share resources with one another and pray for one another. Find out how to work together and help one another serve the Lord in the community.
MAKE DISCIPLES, NOT AMERICANS
Teach the Bible, not culture. American church culture and traditions can be a hindrance and deterrent to foreigners, particularly in cultures that do not value western lifestyles and values. Be flexible and think of ways to make the church more friendly to them. If they are a community that values nature, have church outdoors. If the idea of pews and a pulpit are strange to them, sit in a circle or meet in a home instead. If they want to learn about Jesus, but do not feel comfortable attending church on Sundays, meet up with them for coffee once a week and go through the bible. Help them study the Bible and worship in their language.
What works for Americans is not necessarily helpful or encouraging to foreigners. Find out what they value, and use that perspective to teach the gospel. Separate out biblical requirements from the way we have been taught and raised to do church. We have an image in our mind of the way things are supposed to be, based off of our church experiences. Identify your church culture preferences and understanding of what church "should" look like, and let it go. Think outside of the box. Help them understand the difference between what is biblical and what is American cultural Christianity, so that they can differentiate between what they have the option to do and what Jesus commands us to do.