Ministry on Youth Alpha
What is ‘ministry’? Praying for people Asking God to touch their lives, through the Holy Spirit Ministry is “meeting the need of others on the basis of God’s resources.” (John Wimber)
Why have ministry? Early church modelled ministry for us In the Bible we read of: Spiritual gifts Demonstration of the Spirit’s power (Acts 2)
Introduction Ministry is result of co- operation between God & man Exodus 14:16,21,22 Moses’ part: stretching out his hands God’s part: Parting the Red Sea We have the easy part!
1. Ministry of the Holy Spirit Right perspective: Luke 10:17-20 Not power over demons, but eternal life When we ask, He comes. Luke 11:13. Expect God to move Keep it simple - pray simply! No need for special effects or efforts Focus on Jesus, the Vine, not the fruit (the signs) It is God at work, not us.
2. Biblical Authority The Spirit & Word never contradict The Word is the Sword of the Spirit Truth sets us free. John 8:32 Truth encounter Build on biblical truths & promises Use Scriptures, not our opinions
2. Biblical Authority Some Scriptures when praying: Repentance - Psalm 51 Fear - Psalm 91 Anxiety- Phil. 4:6-7 Guidance- Psalm 37:5 Temptation- 1 Cor. 10:13 Guilt- Romans 8:1
3. Dignity of the Individual Confidentiality Affirm, do not condemn Faith: do not add burden Allow freedom to come back Avoid all intensity
4. Harmonious Relationships Unity of ministry team. Jn 17:23 “May they be brought to complete unity to let the world know that you sent me...” Lack of unity hinders the Spirit. “Do not quench the Spirit.” (1 Thess 5:19) “And do not grieve the Holy Spirit of God.” (Eph. 4:30) Reconcile & make peace
5. The body of Christ Church as the Healing community Long-term healing & spiritual growth of new believers Church as a Discipling community Believers need to be under the protective umbrella of church authority
When do we do ministry? Group Prayer: usually not until after the talk on prayer “How and Why Do I Pray?” Prayer ministry: happens after “How Can I Be Filled with the Holy Spirit?” at the Alpha Day or Weekend.
A model for ministry Ask permission Explain what will happen How you will pray: laying of hands What you are going to pray for Pray in team of 2 or 3 Relaxed environment One lead & others support: same gender Take time to sort out difficulties Find out if any doubts or fears remain
A model for ministry Stand facing the person Keep eyes open – watch what’s happening Pray simple prayers Eg “Come Holy Spirit” Silently pray to God what He wants to do, to say, etc. Ask what is happening “Do you sense anything?”
A model for ministry Hold on to God’s promises Affirm God’s faithfulness to His promise Don’t focus on experiences When we ask, God answers!