Churches are loaded with “do-gooders.” That is a good thing! Actually, it’s part of a good thing. John 15:16, “You didn’t choose me, remember, I chose you, and put you in the world to bear fruit, the fruit that won’t spoil.”
Churches everywhere are busy: feeding the hungry, clothing those who are cold, building houses for the homeless. These are important Christian things to do. Many Muslims also do these things. Many humanists do these things. These are also Christian activities, but they are not unique to Christians.
The biggest challenge to feeding the hungry is that they will be hungry again tomorrow. Those you provide clothing will discover that their clothes wear out. Those who live in your houses eventually die.
So smart churches empower people who are hungry to learn how to garden. Those who need clothes, to make clothes or earn money to buy them. Many Muslims and humanists figured this out too. That’s a good thing. But what about the guy you build the house for, who dies. Then what?
Jesus spells out the uniqueness of the Christian mission that begins with loving others, moves to loving God, and trusting in Jesus, and includes eternal life.
Jesus says, “…I chose you and put you in the world to bear fruit, fruit that won’t spoil.” When you die, you spoil. When you know Jesus as your personal savior, your body spoils but you live. That is the uniqueness of Christianity.
Consequently, our mission is not less. It is not different, but it is more. It is to show love and provide, tell the good news of Jesus and make disciples, feed, empower, and through relationship with Jesus, God gives the gift of eternal life. That never spoils. It’s not one or the other. It is a comprehensive strategy with eternal dimensions. So why do so many leave out the part that uniquely makes Christian missions, well, Christians?
Kent Hunter, founder of Church Doctor Ministries, is known as the Church Doctor. His most recent e-books are The Future Is Now and The J-Dog Journey, available at no cost. Contact him at (800) 626-8515, by email, Twitter, Facebook, or visit www.churchdoctor.org.
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