+DEV+ Intro to "Soul Care"

Date: December 14, 2014 9:32 PM

Topic: +DEV+  Intro to "Soul Care"

Soul Care

“… Feed my lambs. … Feed my sheep. …  Feed my sheep.” John 21:15-17

Scripture Focus: John 21:15-17

We have visited in my areas of Missouri most of the local churches (some 68 different denomination and Independent Churches) and have found most “wanting” They are good people and their leaders are good preachers but I haven’t found a “PASTOR” in the lot.

I guess my leaning is “old fashion” and probably “out of date” in todays religious understandings. The Larger denominations have the “programs” that most folk with children want to have. Some even show “Love” to people come in. But when a member or visitor needs help (non monetarily) the “preachers” are only available if one is in the hospital. Unless you are a Tither or a brand-new member in need of assistance, but after a while you are just a pew warmer that pays their tithe.

The “pastors” that were in our area have ether moved away, died, retired or just quit.

I differentiate the label of Preacher from Pastor: A preacher preaches the Bible. Some preach accurately and some preach their own “gospel”. A Pastor cares for his congregation and makes sure they are growing in God’s Word, where discipleship is the mainstay of the church.

And when a member is missing due to illness or other reasons there is no follow-up calls cards letter or visits to ask if anything is OK, need anything, Etc., Etc. In other words Soul Care.

I have been reading a book by Peter Lord called “Soul Care”, which brings this into focus and I will be sharing parts of the book over the next 11 devotions.

Please feel free to use this series as a teaching tool in your church or small group Bible Study.

Please feel free to use this devotional to send on to your friends or share with your church fellowship and Bible study groups.

We are in urgent need of Prayer and financial partners,

If you would like to become a prayer partner and or a financial partner with monthly or one time gifts.

A freewill offering to Restoration Ministry may be made via PayPal at our web site:    http://www.rollanet.org/~restore/donations.htm