Announcing EFCA Samaritan Way Partnerships

Point 8 of the EFCA Statement of Faith entitled “Christian Living” is a call for the EFCA to become a holistic ministry movement. As defined in Steve Addison’s book, “Movements That Change the World,”  a ministry movement is informal groupings of people and organizations with an agenda for change, pursuing a common cause.  

Point 8 - Christian Living

8. We believe that God’s justifying grace must not be separated from His sanctifying power and purpose. God commands us to love Him supremely and others sacrificially, and to live out our faith with care for one another, compassion toward the poor and justice for the oppressed. With God’s Word, the Spirit’s power, and fervent prayer in Christ’s name, we are to combat the spiritual forces of evil. In obedience to Christ’s commission, we are to make disciples among all people, always bearing witness to the gospel in word and deed.

As the common cause is for EFCA churches to be places of both proclamation and demonstration of the gospel message, the EFCA is in partnership with several ministries to help churches live out Point 8. Prayerfully consider engaging with one of these ministries to become a better Kingdom witness in your community:  

The mission of the Christian Community Development Association (CCDA) is to inspire, train, and connect Christians who seek to bear witness to the Kingdom of God by reclaiming and restoring under-resourced communities.  Make plans to attend a regional or national conference in 2011. 

Move your church to being a more significant force within your community by joining this network which serves as a connection point for like-minded leaders to share their innovative, externally focused ministry strategies and experiences. Network with other leaders and get resources to execute your mission and impact your community. Find practical resources and tools to engage in serving your communities. Membership is free, simply complete the registration form on the Externally Focused Network website.

Joni and Friends an ministry dedicated to extending the love and message of Jesus Christ to people who are affected by disability around the world helps churches answer the call found in the Gospel of Luke 14, "invite the poor, the crippled, the lame, the blind and you will be blessed…make them come in so my house will be full."  Contact a field ministry office near you to learn more about this ministry.  

More information

EFCA holistic ministry partnerships and opportunities

Questions?  samaritanway@efca.org