Archive for Sunday School missions

8 Reasons to Engage Locally and Globally

WHY IS THIS IMPORTANT?

Classes need missions just as missions need our classes to respond, not just by giving and praying for, but by going together. We know that we get to know each other better outside the classroom. We also know that we need to be visible in our world. We are all familiar with the great commission but often fail to apply that to a class or group.

There are many reasons why a class should be involved in local and international mission projects. Some are obvious others perhaps not as obvious.

8 REASONS TO ENGAGE IN MISSIONS

* People need help

* Class members have a deep desire to help

* People need a Savior

* Class members understand this need and know how to meet it

* Our communities need a Christian influence

* Class members can be this positive influence and help by ministering locally

* Class members grow together as we serve together

* Class members are fulfilled when they serve and use their spiritual gifts

We have been involve in missions projects with our classes and know the benefits that await those that get involved. Many times we can get prospects involved in projects because of their skill set. We get to know them in a neutral setting and possibly win the right to share the gospel. God blesses obedience and faithfulness. What project do you think your class would get involved with? The opportunities are limitless and there are members of your class that would love to take the lead and take care of the details. We just have to challenge them and give them the opportunity.

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John Thomas is the Assistant Director of Missions for the Calhoun Baptist Association, Anniston, AL.

Cindy Thomas is Director of Women’s Ministry, Mt. Zion Baptist Church, Alexandria, AL.

3 Reasons to have a Group Mission Board

missionWHAT IS IT? A Missionary Board is a bulletin board or wall space dedicated to keeping the group focused on “why” we are here. It usually contains pictures that remind participants of the mission and ongoing purpose of the group.

WHY HAVE A MISSION BOARD?

REASON #1 – Celebration of Mission Engagement

Posting pictures of the latest mission project or photos of group members ministering in other areas of the church serves as an ongoing celebration of the true purpose of any group – Great Commandment/Great Commission engagement. The pictorial celebration of these events encourages the people in the photo and challenges others to be involved. The photos can also inspire more ideas of mission opportunities in the community.

REASON #2 – Care for Missionaries

Posting photos of people who have left the group to serve in other groups or areas of ministry, reminds group members of their responsibility to provide ongoing care and assistance to these missionaries. One of the difficulties of stepping out to serve, is the feeling of loss that comes from departing the group. Group members should strive to continue in friendship and fellowship with all who serve so they will know they are still valued person in the group.

REASON #3 – Change the Culture

What you value is visible and vocal. There are plenty of grandparents that can show pictures and talk endlessly about their grandchildren. Why? Because they are treasures of great value. By developing a Mission Board, the group makes visible what they value. It also creates opportunities to talk about the importance of growing and going as a group on mission for Christ. When people walk into the meeting place of the group, they should be able to quickly access the community culture by seeing and hearing about those who matter most. A Mission Board will become a valuable tool to change the culture of the group from ‘meeting’ to ‘mission.’

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Daniel Edmonds is the Sunday School missionary for the Alabama State Board of Missions