“Each of you should use whatever gift you have received to serve others, as faithful stewards of God’s grace in its various forms.—1 Peter 4:10
As believers our ministry goes beyond the walls of the church. We are called to make disciples and to serve others not only within the church, but outside of it. Our work is required in spaces outside of the four walls that bring us together each week. Going beyond the building requires our ministry, stewardship, time, and discipleship. Our ministry and how we interact with one another should reflect the heart of the church and the body of Christ. You are part of the Kingdom’s calling. The work that is done changing lives and bettering the future of students within the education system is your ministry. The work that is done coaching and developing athletes within the community is your ministry. The work that is done in your career to upbuild the company is your ministry. Whether you are a stay-at-home parent, caregiver, hairstylist, or store manager—consider it your ministry. Those are the very places where God desires to work through you to reach others. You may be the only source of Jesus some people may see. As you show up in the spaces where God has called you, be reminded that you can be the difference maker. What is it that translates beyond the church for you in this season?
It is important for us to recognize that our ministries add value to the world, while also bringing glory to God. The bible points out many examples of ordinary people that transformed the lives of others through their works outside of the church. In Acts chapter 9 verses 36-43, we meet a woman named Tabitha (also known as Dorcas). Tabitha was given a heart to serve and help those in need; this included: the poor, widowed, and the needy. She used her hands to sew clothes in compassion for others. Tabitha impacted those who were on the outskirts of the church. Luke 10:30, shows us the parable of the Good Samaritan. Jesus explains the story of a man who was traveling to Jerusalem and was attacked by a group of robbers. A priest and a Levite passed by the road where the man had been attacked; no one helped. Ultimately, a third person passing by, a Samaritan, stopped to bandage his wounds and took him to an inn to care for him. The Good Samaritan parable is used as an illustration of operating in mercy and hospitality to meet the needs of others—wherever they may be. In Acts 18, we see Priscilla and Aquila preaching and ministering alongside Paul. Later, Priscilla and Aquila take a man to their home and give him better counsel on preaching a more accurate gospel. In addition, we see how their home becomes a refuge and church for teaching and worshipping. This chapter gives us insight on how the church starts within us. We are a living and breathing example of the Father’s purpose beyond the structure.
If we live a life that only reflects and requires Christ within the building, we are losing opportunities to reach the community around us. People came to know Jesus as He walked the earth because He showed us a life beyond Himself that included everyone. He was never confined to a certain place to fulfill His ministry. His ministry surpassed all borders and barriers. Your gifts, passions, and talents do not play small; in fact, they will help you navigate the wheel of your service. Tabitha used her talents to show compassion towards others. The Good Samaritan reached out a helping hand to save someone. Priscilla and Aquila became the church and mirrored Christ’s love. In all of these stories, we can see the markings of hearts that went beyond the formation of a building; serving and stewarding wherever their assignments led them. How can you establish a role in ministry that goes beyond the interior? We are tangible evidence of the church. Let us not only be the light that shines within the church, but the light on the hill that illuminates into this world.
“The church is a community of people called by God and placed under Christ to continue His work in the world.” —Unknown
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