“The fruit of righteous is a tree of life. And he who wins souls is wise.” Proverbs 11:30
Key #1: Consider Christ
Jesus ministered to masses. He molded and developed 12 men and challenged them to carry His message to the ends of the earth. The ministry of Jesus changed the world! We can learn everything we need to have a successful ministry by looking at the practical ways Christ conducted His earthly ministry.
How can we be like Christ?
* Define your purpose.
*Share your passion.
*Seek your people (develop a team of leaders).
Key #2: Converse with Christ
Jesus spent a great deal of time in prayer. He prayed for those that He was molding and building. He prayed for those who would come to know Him in the future. Prayer is the key to witnessing God’s productive power in your ministry.
How should we pray?
* Bathe everything in prayer.
* Pray for the small things and the big things.
Key #3: Compel them to come
Jesus called many to drop everything and follow Him. His invitation was clear and compelling.
How can we compel others to join us in following after God?
*Advertise your events in print and by word of mouth: invite, invite, invite!
* Canvas the community.
* Invite other churches.
Key #4: Communicate constantly
Jesus used every opportunity to reach out and communicate with others. He not only spoke to and taught people; He was a Master at listening to their hearts.
How should we communicate?
* Write letters and newsletters monthly.
* Send cards for encouragement.
* Make calls and send emails.
Key #5: Compassionate concern
The compassion of Christ was evident in every move He made. He reached out to the poor and broken. He was patient with those who did not understand. He worked among the hurting to make a difference in their lives and to share the love of His Father in a real and tangible way. Everywhere we turn, people are hurting. We are called to minister.
How can we demonstrate compassion?
* Look for needs.
* Listen closely and actively. (Focus on the person speaking.)
* Pray immediately with them (out loud).
Key #6: Coach your leaders
Jesus worked with the twelve to give them the boldness and confidence that they needed to go out and share His message. He taught them as they walked the dusty roads together. He demonstrated how to minister as the twelve looked on. He poured Himself into these men in order to teach them to touch the lives of others for the Kingdom.
How can we develop our leaders?
* Choose prayerfully. (Ask God to help you match gifts to service.)
* Disciple diligently.
* Challenge constantly.
Key #7: Consistently teach the Word
The most important key to having ministry success is to effectively and consistently teach the Word of God. Jesus spoke the words of the Father. He spoke the message of the Gospel wherever He went.
How can we consistently teach His Word?
* Encourage individual study.
* Let every event draw people to the Word. (Use a theme verse.)
* Celebrate growth.
Stephanie Little, Guest Writer
