MEMORY VERSE: “As we have therefore opportunity, let us do good unto all men.” Galatians 6:10a
BIBLE PASSAGE: Luke 5:27-32
INTRODUCTION
Evangelism refers to the art of preaching of the Gospel. The Greek word for gospel (euangelion) which literally means “gospeling” IS the same root word for evangelism. Therefore, evangelism is about sharing/ spreading the Gospel (message) of Jesus Christ and encouraging others to accept Him as their Saviour and Lord. It is one Great assignment that Jesus left for the disciples then and the believers now, The sharing of the Gospel can take different forms. One of these is welfare evangelism.
OUTLINE
- WHAT IS WELFARE EVANGELISM?
- BENEFITS OF WELFARE EVANGELISM
WHAT IS WELFARE EVANGELISM?
Welfare evangelism is one of the ways of spreading the gospel to the sinners and the less privileged by providing relief materials, gifts and everything that can enhance their wellbeing. Welfare could mean financial, health, food, care, and other provisions rendered to those who need it. It comprises orphanage evangelism, hospital evangelism, prison evangelism, and Christian social responsibility. It is a simple mission with great and lasting impact on the lives of people and the Society at large.
It can be expressed in simple ways such as giving out free bottled water on a hot day, sharing packs of food to needy people on the street, etc. One of the motivations behind this type of evangelism is that the Bible tells us that God’s kindness leads people to repentance Romans 2:4. That is God showing kindness to the needy through His Ambassadors, His children, the believers.
One of the main reasons Jesus’ earthly ministries was so effective was because it was rooted in compassion for those who were marginalised, forgotten,needy and hurting Matthew 14:14. In Luke 5:29, Levi made a great feast after meeting with Jesus. Jesus was also at the feast and therefore was able to minister to all the people who attended the feast, most of whom were sinners. This is a form of welfare evangelism.
BENEFITS OF WELFARE EVANGELISM
This method is very easy to bring and retain people when you show love and kindness or give gifts John 6:23-27.
- Welfare evangelism gets to the people where they are and through it, God’s love is presented in a unique and indirect ways. People are excited when they receive free services with no strings attached. In fact, it usually arouses curiosity as to why someone would show such kindness Hebrews 13:16.
- It has the potential to soften the hearts of the receivers, while the platform serves as opportunity to present the gospel of Jesus Christ Proverbs 18:16.
- It is a good way to ‘water’ the ‘seeds’ previously sown 1 Corinthians 3:6; Matthew 15:32.
- Engaging in welfare evangelism is a subtle way of fulfilling the great mandate for those who lack confidence and helping them to break free from fear and timidity Romans 12:10.
- Through welfare evangelism, the church can show people outside the church that God cares and give them a reason to want to come inside Acts 2:44-47.
CONCLUSION
Your act of kindness to anyone can be a platform to extend the love of Christ to them Hebrews 13:1.
FURTHER READINGS:
SUN: Matthew 25:34-40.
MON: Hebrews 13:2.
TUE: John 3:16.
WED: Matthew 15:32
THUR: Luke 15:31.
FRI: John 15:16.
SAT: John 15:17.