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Lesson 2: The Right Motives
Lesson 2 addresses the critical importance of genuine intent in community outreach. Pastor Cox discusses the common pitfalls in outreach strategies, particularly the emphasis on events over ongoing relationships. He advocates for a presence-based approach, where the focus is on becoming an integral part of the community, building trust, and identifying Persons of Peace. This lesson challenges the idea of outreach as a means to an end and instead promotes it as a way to authentically engage and serve the community for its own sake.
Upon completing the lesson video, reflect on the following questions, either individually or as part of a group discussion:
- How can we ensure our outreach efforts are driven by genuine love rather than the expectation of immediate results?
- Reflect on a time when you saw consistent, relationship-building outreach make a difference. What can be learned from that experience?
- Discuss the importance of becoming a 'local' in your outreach area. How can you apply this concept in your current context?
- What does it mean to you to be present and engaged in your community beyond organized church events?
People in your community know when you're approaching them with the wrong motive.
Pastor Richard Cox
Key Takeaways
- Outreach should be motivated by genuine care, not just a desire to increase church attendance.
- Consistency in outreach builds trust and stronger relationships within the community.
- Being present in the community involves regular, intentional interaction and engagement.
- Identifying and engaging 'Persons of Peace' is crucial for effective outreach.
Key Terms
- Genuine Outreach
- Persons of Peace
- Community Presence