Christian Outreach Tools

Prayer is one example of Christian outreach efforts.

Christian outreach involves active participation in the community and spreading the word of God to others. Specific programs that tutor elementary students, collect winter coats at Christmas and accept donations for the homeless are common outreach programs. Strategic tools, however, can also be used for Christian outreach efforts. These are often intended to educate others about Christianity and identify the ways in which Christ shapes daily life.

Comedy

According to The Grable Group (grablegroup.com), comedy transcends many boundaries that often separate people, including those between Christians and non-Christians. A church event that incorporates comedy can be tailored to youth, middle-aged and elderly people alike. As such, comedy can meaningfully reach a widespread audience without appearing aggressive. Comedy also identifies a church as in-tune with today's culture, while demonstrating a humorous approach to Christian life.

Music

From country to gospel to rap, music helps spread the message of God. Moreover, the common enjoyment of music means it can reach people through all mediums, including those driving in their cars with the radio on, people sitting in bars listening to local bands and office workers passing time with headphones on. Inspirational music is not always recognized as such, with Elvis Presley's "Crying in the Chapel" as a prime example. Furthermore, recording artists can cross genres and take their fans with them, as Lee Ann Rimes did when she released an inspirational album after debuting in country music.

Social Media

Many churches today recognize the importance of social media in connecting with their congregations. Twitter, for example, enables Christians to connect with people across the globe, and tools such as video sharing can spread inspirational messages. Similarly, church announcements, events and invitations can be posted to Facebook for parishioners to read. These mediums can reach critical numbers of people at one time, which keeps Christians abreast of news and may spark interest in others.

Intercessory Prayer

Intercessory prayer is defined as prayer for others, whereby one pleads with God on behalf of one or several people who need intervention. This type of prayer often welcomes non-parishioners into church-based meet-up groups for praying and other social activities. Intercessory prayer can also be conducted by Christians who wish others to connect with Christ. After prayer, Christians can talk to those for whom they pray and begin a dialogue about church.

Community Activities

Helping others is another form of Christian outreach. To illustrate, making plans to watch a movie or have a cup of coffee with a colleague or neighbor reflects hospitality. This can help prevent loneliness and encourage those without many friends to be more social.

Meeting the needs of others by sharing or donating unused goods is another way to foster the name of Jesus and promote Christianity. Examples of goods that may be valuable to another person or family include toys, clothes and sports equipment. When these donations are provided to the recipient, perhaps start a discussion of Christ and how he provides for others.

References

• The Grable Group: 7 Ways Christian Comedy Can Help Your Church with Outreach
• Turn Your Radio On: The Stories Behind Gospel Music...; Ace Collins; 1999
• Christian News Tweets: Social Media, A Great Outreach Tool; March, 2011
• All About Prayer: Intercessory Prayer
• Christian Outreach Ministry: Simple Christian Community Outreach Activities
• Pilgrim Church: What Does Christian Outreach Mean?