Weekly Ministry Tip #4, Fall 2014
Grow Deep, Reach High
We Can Take Heart And Not Be Afraid
Read the brief story of Jesus walking on the water in Matthew 14. As you read this in context you will notice that the disciples were out at sea on a boat that was being battered by a storm. No doubt they had been fearing for their lives. Jesus came walking to them on the sea and the first words He says are: “Take heart; it is I. Do not be afraid.”
Could it be that Jesus is telling us the same thing? Whatever we’re going through He may be whispering to us to “take heart and do not be afraid, I am by your side.” But the story continues with Peter saying to Jesus, “Lord if it is you, command me to come to you on the water.” As Peter got closer to Jesus, He lost sight of Him and focused on the wind, became afraid, and began to sink.
Jesus then says, “O you of little faith, why did you doubt?” Sometimes it feels like we all might hear those words spoken to us. Let’s keep our focus on Jesus, take heart, and not be afraid or fearful. He is always by our side.
Be Ready At All Times – 3 Components To Focus On
This week I had a very encouraging Skype with a campus that I’m coaching. At the end of our 45 minute call I emphasized three things that were important to focus on to see their ministry continue to grow.
First, continue doing evangelism. This is a core component for each campus ministry. We want to give every student a chance to hear the gospel message of Jesus. Be sure every student is trained in sharing their faith. Take everyone through the “Big Six” Training (“Knowing God Personally” booklet). Here is the written version. This second link will take you to the video version and closing the conversation part of the training. Use both as you train your students.
Second, follow-up on students as quickly, efficiently and effectively as you can. Take a look at the questionnaires you may have done or people who have come to your first week’s activities. Be sure to text, email, Facebook and call each interested student. Keep sending out reminders of your weekly meetings/Bible studies for at least 3 weeks. Don’t give up. Be sure you also know how to engage new or young believers in follow-up and growth principles.
Third, have excellent weekly meetings and Bible studies. Settle for nothing but the best. It does not mean that you have to spend countless hours preparing for your meeting, but do follow some time proven ideas to build up your students faith. Engage them in the meeting, and encourage them to come back. Check out point 3 and especially point 4 of my first weekly tip at the bottom of the page. Find it here.
Talk to you next week,
Ben with Cru