Why Jesus’ Outreach Is the Best Example to Follow

When we look at Jesus’ outreach, one thing stands out: He genuinely spent time with people.

In Matthew 9, we read, “And Jesus went throughout all the cities and villages, teaching in their synagogues and proclaiming the gospel of the kingdom and healing every disease and every affliction.” A few verses later, He addressed the need for more workers: “The harvest is plentiful, but the laborers are few; therefore pray earnestly to the Lord of the harvest to send out laborers into his harvest” (Matthew 9:37-38, ESV).

1. Feeding the Hungry

One of the most well-known acts of compassion was the feeding of the 5,000. This miracle is recorded in Matthew 14:13-21, Mark 6:30-44, and John 6:1-15. Jesus also fed 4,000 people in Matthew 15:32-39 and Mark 8:1-9.

Meeting physical needs, such as hunger, is a powerful form of outreach. When we share food or essentials, we soften hearts and open doors to share the Gospel.

2. Caring for the Sick

Throughout His ministry, Jesus healed many individuals. For instance, He healed a blind man (Mark 8:22-25 and John 9) and lepers (Matthew 8, Mark 1:40-45, Luke 17:11-19). He also healed a paralytic (Mark 2:1-12 and Luke 5:17-26) and a woman with hemorrhaging (Matthew 9:20-22, Mark 5:25-34, Luke 8:43-48).

Although we may not be able to perform miracles, providing healthcare or support is still a crucial form of outreach.

3. Helping Those in Need

Jesus’ teachings on generosity inspire us to care for the needy.

He told a rich man to sell his possessions and give to the poor (Mark 10:21). Additionally, He instructed us not to refuse a beggar or someone in need (Matthew 5:42). Jesus emphasized that when we care for the marginalized, we are serving Him (Matthew 25:31-46).

By providing essentials like clothing or shelter, we create bridges for conversations that can lead to sharing the Gospel.

4. Visiting Those Who Seek

Another beautiful form of outreach is seen in how Jesus visited people who were seeking Him.

He visited Zacchaeus (Luke 19:1-10) and the woman at the well (John 4:1-26). He also spent time with Martha and Mary (Luke 10:38-42). In our fast-paced world, quality time is precious.

Visiting and listening to others allows us to create meaningful connections and share the message of Jesus.

5. Standing Up for Justice

Jesus didn’t shy away from standing against injustice.

He rebuked the Pharisees for their hypocrisy (Matthew 23:1-4). Additionally, He intervened to stop the stoning of the woman caught in adultery (John 8:1-15).

As His followers, we should be willing to stand against issues such as slavery, abuse, and corruption. Standing up for those without a voice reflects Jesus’ example of outreach.

We Should Emulate Jesus’ Outreach

When we reflect on these examples, we see that being a follower of Jesus means being a worker in His harvest. He has shown us how to engage in outreach, and it’s up to us to continue His mission in our communities.

Join the Conversation; Share Your Thoughts

• How can a Christ-centered outreach ministry impact your local church?
• What practical ways can you incorporate outreach into your daily life?
• Which of these examples from Jesus’ outreach inspires you the most, and why?