Show people Jesus - through practical action and demonstrations of God’s love

Another big idea of the movement is that we think that practical demonstrations of the values of the kingdom of God are as impactful as talking about them. And so, the sleeves rolled up, the caring for the needy, the helping the vulnerable, the being the voice for the voiceless, the advocating for justice, the going after things where people are being in some way tortured or separated or rejected. That we as a movement, we go to those places, we put our sleeves up, and we say, we don’t want to just talk about God’s love, we want to show you guys. This is the soup, soap and salvation that has been our history. And I would love it if salvationists would get this idea that actually I can do that. I can knock on a neighbour’s door and say, is there any way I can help you? Is there any way I can serve you?

- General Lyndon Buckingham, Big Idea #2

THIS IS HOW WE LIVE OUT THIS IDEA

                       

WE DEMONSTRATE JESUS THROUGH PRACTICAL ACTIONS

Sharing the Gospel through spoken word, and showing the gospel through compassionate actions work together – like the 2 wings of a bird. Practical action, evangelism, discipleship and pastoral care should all feature in each of our ministry units; whether they are Social Services facilities or corps. How can we do that more effectively? Where multiple ministry units exist in one town, how can we work together effectively, combining resources to maximise our mission impact? See Matthew 5:14-16

 

‘HOW CAN WE HELP YOU?’ IS OUR DEFAULT QUESTION

Motivated by the example and teaching of Jesus (Matthew 25), we see Jesus in the people we meet, and we offer them our support and assistance - without discrimination. We stand alongside people who need help and find ways to speak up for those with no voice.

WE LOOK BEYOND OUR WALLS AND BORDERS

We see the whole community as our ‘parish’, and actively look for opportunities to serve, whether inside our own facilities or in the street and public areas. We review existing activities (ministries) and engage with our communities to identify needs and develop responses. See John 13: 34-35

WE PREPARE FOR DISASTERS AND DEVELOP CAPACITY TO RESPOND TO EMERGENCIES

The Salvation Army has responded to emergencies for more than 100 years. As emergency ministry becomes more specialised, we will develop our capacity to play a part; identifying our assets, developing and training volunteers, networking with other actors (statutory organisations, NGOs and other churches) to find our particular niche and best opportunity to serve. Formal territorial emergency structures will be agreed so we are better prepared and ready to respond when disaster strikes.

How will THQ support you?

  • By adopting a ‘Mission-focussed’ approach to budgets and resource allocation

  • Promoting holistic ministry

  • Offering training in emergency preparedness and investing in facilities and equipment

  • Building a territorial disaster reserve

For personal reflection or discussion:

  • How are these goals evident in your corps or centre?

Live with
Jesus

Talk about
Jesus

Become like
Jesus

The Big
Picture

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