Baptist Temple Demonstrates a Serving Attitude

In the same way, let your light shine before men,

that they may see your good deeds

and praise your Father in heaven. Matthew 5:16

Bill Hybels identified six evangelism styles; confrontational, intellectual, testimonial, interpersonal, invitational, and serving. A quick survey during a session of Becoming a Contagious Christian revealed that a majority of Baptist Temple Church members preferred the serving style of evangelism.

While the discovery was a pleasant surprise, it was already evident in the variety of community services we provide. We have developed a servant culture at Baptist Temple that attracts others with a servant heart.

People with a servant heart show love through action more than words. They take to heart Jesus teaching about serving him by serving others. They will attach value to even menial tasks. Jesus said, “And if anyone gives even a cup of cold water to one of these little ones who is my disciple, truly I tell you, that person will certainly not lose their reward.” (Matthew 10:42)

Steve Sjogren wrote, in Conspiracy of Kindness, “A can of coke and the power of the Holy Spirit can open a person's heart.”

Kindness evangelism is simply giving someone a token gift or doing a service in the name of Jesus. Steve Sjogren says, “Kindness Evangelism is demonstrating the kindness of God by offering to do some act of humble service with no strings attached.”

Jesus said, “…Freely you have received, freely give.” (Matthew 10:8)

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We are celebrating 40 days of Xtreme Love at Baptist Temple. We started on Feb 14 with a sermon series focused on Mark 12:30-31 and a lunch served by our youth that also served as a fund raiser for youth summer ministries. Later that week we collected and sorted clothing for our thrift shop.

On the second Sunday we provided cards with love assignments to do an act of kindness for a church member (including homebound), relative, friend or neighbor. Most were free but some could cost up to $10. The cards were color-coded according to cost. Tasks ranged from a phone call to taking someone out to lunch. The goal is to accomplish your task during the Lenten season.

That evening we had training on Kindness Evangelism. This involves showing God’s love in a practical way through some small act of kindness or service. These include giving out bottled water, flowers on mother’s day or free gift wrapping at the mall during the Christmas shopping season with NO STRINGS ATTACHED.

A small act accompanied by the power of the Holy Spirit can change a person’s heart. It breaks down barriers because it offers grace without pressure. Remember, NO STRINGS ATTACHED!

“…Freely you have received, freely give.” (Matthew 10:8)

“And if anyone gives even a cup of cold water to one of these little ones because he is my disciple, I tell you the truth, he will certainly not lose his reward.” (Matthew 10:42)

More on Kindness Evangelism