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Social Concern with a Purpose

“Jesus went throughout Galilee, teaching in their synagogues, proclaiming the good news of the kingdom, and healing every disease and sickness among the people.” Matthew 4:23

There are people who don’t know Jesus who have a heart to help others. They feed the hungry, drill wells for those who need water, care for the ill, clothe the naked, and respond to tragedies. It is admirable. So, what makes what we do “Christian” and “godly” and their actions just “good works”? Good question.

Look at what it says in this passage. Jesus was engaging people where they were. As He went, He taught the already convinced or seeking. But along with caring for their sick, He proclaimed the Good News of the Kingdom. That is the difference. If we care for the needs of people but never proclaim the Good News, it will help them for this world but leave them stuck in their lostness. It is vital that we also tell them about Jesus and His Kingdom.

As we say, our desire is that every man, woman and child will have repeated opportunities to see, hear and be able to respond to the Gospel of Jesus Christ.

Prayer Focus: Father, You know that it is more comfortable for us to do things for people than to talk to people. By the power of Your Spirit, help us to get out of our comfort zone to both show and tell them about You.

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