4. When a church has an outreach program, it can be perceived as a ministry for the few.
So the majority of the members can say it’s “someone else’s” ministry.
The Great Commission is not a multiple choice question.
5. Most church outreach programs fail to explain that sharing the love of Christ is a vital part of spiritual growth.
Instead, it is often seen as a “check list” among other obligations at the church.
6. Outreach programs can offer excuses for people not to be outwardly focused.
I used to conduct church surveys when I was a church consultant. A common theme I heard was: “I do this ministry, so I don’t have to be involved in evangelism and outreach.” In other words, being an outwardly focused Christian becomes an option among many. And it’s usually not chosen.
7. Outreach programs can put the responsibility of evangelism on institutions.
So if a church is not evangelistic, it’s because the denomination or other resource providers are not doing their jobs. Local churches and local church members shift accountability to an institution.
