Looking Beyond the Need

As a street evangelist, I am continually looking for opportunities in which to minister. However, this ministry can be overwhelming when you constantly hear about all of the needs that exist. As people come to us asking for food, clothes, furniture, and the like, we must remember our main purpose as Christians. There are certain things, above and beyond the current and the physical, which we must do. Let’s take a look at Acts 3:4-6 (NKJV). As a little background, Peter and John are headed to the temple for prayer. On their way, a crippled man asks Peter for money and Peter’s response is one, not only of compassion, but of power. Now, let’s take a closer look to see how this story should affect the sharing our faith.

Verse 4: And fixing his eyes on him, with John, Peter said, “Look at us.”
Just like the Good Samaritan, Peter and John made a decision to look at the crippled man. Do you take the time to look at people, fixing your eyes on them, looking to see what needs you can detect? Or are you afraid to look at them and see for yourself all the people around you who are in great need of help? Peter and John not only looked at the crippled man, but they also got his attention. We must gain the attention of those we are sharing the Gospel with. However, our message and mission cannot stop there.

Verse 5: So he gave them his attention, expecting to receive something from them.
Many will take a small step of faith, once they look at us, hoping that in some way we might be able to help them. As small as this seems, this step allows us to share the Scripture, furthering the growth of this faith within them. In almost all cases, they are never looking for eternal life, but we must clean our spiritual eyes so that we might see the needs that their spirit seeks.

Verse 6, part one: Then Peter said, “Silver and gold I do not have…”
There is no way we will ever possess enough silver or gold to meet all the needs around us. Think of it this way: any rich man could easily walk through the neighborhoods we visit and, with the wave of his magic pen, give money and goods to the people of that area. However, when he leaves the premises, the people left behind are still crippled. When we minister to them in the name of Jesus, they have an opportunity to grab hold of the message of Jesus Christ and receive all that He has to offer them, which includes the ability to rise up and walk. Using a little silver and gold can get people’s attention, but will you take the next step once they are looking at you?

Verse 6, part two: “…but what I do have I give you: In the name of Jesus Christ of Nazareth, rise up and walk.”
What do we have to give them that is more valuable than all the treasure on this earth? The answer is faith in Jesus Christ. Our faith in Jesus is the foundation for our authority. Now, we can speak to those who are crippled and say, “Rise up and walk.” The same people who are asking us to do their walking for them can end up having an encounter with Jesus, producing the ability to walk on their own in Christ.

Summary
Sharing our faith is truly an honor and privilege that we have as Christians. Remember, we have what the lost and the hurting need! We can help people physically to the best of our ability, but we must take just as much time (if not more) to care for their much deeper spiritual needs. We serve a God that offers eternal life and so much more. We can direct them to the One that supplies all of our needs – spiritual, physical, and emotional. I pray that this not only informs you of why we witness, but that it births within you a desire and a boldness to share the Gospel of Jesus Christ like never before. Go forth and execute His Word!