FAQ

How is a household approach more effective evangelistically?

What is the Institute’s relationship to the local church?

What about singles, seniors, and those who are not nuclear families?

Why do you use the term “household ministry"?

How do I sponsor a seminar?

Can the Institute send someone to come and preach at my church or to meet with our church leaders?

How is the Institute funded?

Are my donations to the Institute tax-deductible?

How is a household approach more effective evangelistically?
The household approach makes for more effective evangelism because it makes for more effective discipleship which in the words of our Lord Jesus Christ is the Great Commission.

In Matthew 28:19, 20, Jesus gives us the explicit goal of the Great Commission: discipleship. Verbal evangelism is a vital part of discipleship, but it is not, by-itself, the entirety of the Great Commission. God’s concern goes beyond a profession of faith to the much bigger matter of helping people live in a totally new way.

Perhaps the following words lend some insight on this matter; as Christians we are not so much salesman as much as we are midwives. If our mindset begins with discipleship rather than evangelism, then we will see a much different result, not just people making a decision but people who are committed to living for Christ which will greatly enhance the goals we seek in evangelism.

Jesus instructs us to “teach them to observe all that I have commanded you” (Matt. 28:20). This implies showing others how to apply the commandments which necessitates discipleship (Matt. 4:19; Phil. 4:9). The Great Commission is clearly and primarily discipling people! While we are teaching them, God’s Holy Spirit may be pleased to bring them to a point where they recognize their need for Christ and we have the opportunity to lead them to the throne of Grace. This is not how most church members view the Great Commission.

Most people have a truncated view of the Great Commission; thinking that it is simply handing out tracks or telling someone (usually strangers they don’t know or have never met before) how to be saved and go to heaven. Actually discipling the person should he/she make a profession of faith is commonly viewed as the job of the church staff.

For sure, God calls pastors to preach the gospel faithfully and handing out tracts and sharing with strangers is certainly a valuable part of the Great Commission in which we should all participate. Many need encouragement and instruction to always be able to give an answer for the hope that is within us. (I Peter 3:15). We should all be equipped to give a clear, credible presentation of the Gospel. What else can be done?

God providentially places everyone in a wide variety of relationships. These relationships are usually somewhat long term with neighbors, co-workers, friends, etc. We are to disciple these folks by living God’s truth before them so that they will see the power of God in our lives; giving evidence of the Word we proclaim.

This approach to discipleship through households provides an effective and realistic, demonstration of the Gospel; mercy, grace, forgiveness, restoration, peace, love and joy…what the world seeks in all the wrong places and wrong ways.

This approach also provides meaningful opportunities to equip future generations, beginning with our own children, to aspire to greater obedience to the Great Commission.

What is the Institute’s relationship to the local church?
Institute staff, members of both the Executive Board and the Advisory Council are required to be members in good standing in their local church. In addition to being accountable to the Executive Board, staff are accountable to the leadership of the local churches wherein they are members (Heb. 13:17).

We have a deep love and appreciation for the local church and want everything we do to help increase the affection of members and leaders for the local church; the precious bride of Christ. Therefore, our approach is to work with local church leaders so that we are helping those leaders minister more effectively to the flocks God has given them.

What about singles, seniors, and those who are not nuclear families?
One of the greatest strengths of the household approach is how it ministers to and brings together all of the “individuals” that we traditionally have separated through our programs. As image- bearers of our Creator, we were created for relationship (Gen. 1:26; John 10:11; Rom. 8:15, 38,39).

Relationships as God designed them in the local church are to be interdependent across a spectrum of ages and interests (Matt. 22:39; I Cor. 12; I John 2:9,10). We need each other. How can we use our gifts and fulfill the relational commands of scripture to love one other when –by rule- we are separated from each other?

Why do you use the term “household ministry”?
Throughout the scriptures, we see the words “Household” and “family” used. When studying the meaning of these words, it is quickly established that the concept of extended family, of both blood and non-blood relation is what is meant. The word “family” today has lost this broad, inclusive meaning. “Household”, however, immediately provides a context that is biblically accurate in its inclusivity. Numerous scriptures provide insight into spiritual leadership for households.

“Household” communicates to the church leader, as well as the single, senior, and all groups of individuals who are not nuclear families, that our concern is not simply for the family, but for The People that God has chosen to be His own (Jer. 31:33). Within this context, the challenges associated with each individual group that we try to address through the age and interest-segregated approach can be effectively addressed so that the whole body of Christ, including family units, benefit.

How do I sponsor a seminar?
The Institute has a 4-hour seminar that presents the vision for household ministry and practical tools to help everyone in the church to get started. This seminar can be delivered on one day, or spread out over two days depending upon the requirements of the individual church. The informal, interactive, relaxed, and fun nature of this seminar is also great for church retreats. There are no minimum or maximum attendance requirements. There is a modest fee for the seminar plus all travel-related expenses.

Can the Institute send someone to come and preach at my church or to meet with our church leaders?
An Institute speaker can come to your church to preach and/or to meet with your church leaders to discuss everything from the vision to a specific implementation strategy.

How is the Institute funded?
The Institute is funded through the faithful giving of the individuals, churches, and organizations who believe in its mission.

Are my donations to the Institute tax-deductible?
The Institute is a non-profit organization organized under U.S. Federal Code 501 (c) 3. All donations are tax-deductible.