Monday, November 20, 2006

Your Philosophy of Ministry

Do YOU have a philosophy of ministry? This is of utmost importance in the local church. Do you even know your church's philosophy of ministry? Every church (and ministry) is in desperate need for a philosophy of ministry because it will help keep the main thing the main thing. Paul says in 1 Cor 9:26, “Therefore I run in such a way, as not without aim; I box in such a way, as not beating the air.” He understands the necessity of running with an aim or a purpose in mind. If you aim at nothing, you will surely hit it.

The necessity of the philosophy of ministry is crucial. If the church does not have a purpose or a goal, and especially a means of attaining and reaching those goals, then it is probable that the church will become sidetracked with other issues that will either divert from the correct path or slow down the process of attaining the goal. A philosophy of ministry will keep the ministry focused on the core elements of the church and it will determine the respective pros and cons of a new prospective ministry.

In my philosophy of ministry, I have encapsulated eight points. They all begin with:
The Purpose of the Church is to:
1. Exalt God
2. Evangelize the Lost
3. Edify Believers
4. Expositionally Teach
5. Encourage Christlikeness
6. Equip Missionaries

May we be those who are faithful to the call with which we have been called. May we be those who rightly divide the Word of Truth (2 Tim 2:15) and Preach the Word (2 Tim 4:2). God is good. His Word is worthy to be heralded. May we never forget the purpose of the church. May we always to that which will aid us in attaining those goals to the honor, glory and praise of our great God and Savior.