Two Degrees

The church's natural compass points inward. We tend to take care of our own, calling our friends, designing events we enjoy, and making sure our own needs are taken care of. But what if we pushed that compass a little? Just two degrees away from ourselves. Where would it point? More accurately, who would it be pointing to? It would be pointing to people who live near our church, but who don't yet attend.

Organic Outreach

Organic Outreach has a two-degree rule. This rule recommends that churches take their current programs and try to shift them just two degrees toward the community around them. Instead of serving ourselves, what if we served the world around us? While two degrees seem small, the impact of the two-degree rule can be huge.

Shifting Two Degrees

Shifting two degrees away from ourselves requires a major mental shift from "us" to "them." If my faith isn't about me and my friends, then what is it? As we follow this principle, we find that it is a call to honor Jesus' earliest command: "Repent and believe, for the kingdom of heaven is at hand."

Seeking the Lost

That kingdom is here to seek and save the lost. This kingdom's King is the sort of leader who leaves the ninety-nine to pursue the one lost sheep. He's the ruler who searches for prodigals.

Opportunities for Outreach

Tomorrow we have our "Trunk or Treat." Part of me wants to debate the morality of celebrating Halloween. Then I remember the two-degree rule: it's not about me. This might be the way to extend Jesus' message to the hurting world around us. Let's use this as an opportunity to invite a few people in the hopes that this is the first step toward something far greater.

Soon we'll be celebrating Thanksgiving and Christmas, with a few "regular Sundays" in between. These are all opportunities to invite our friends, family, and neighbors to experience Jesus.

Conclusion

Honestly, I wanted to write this week about Reformation Day, but then I remembered that this isn't about me. This is about Jesus, and He commanded us to "make disciples of all nations."

I'm counting on you to help me push the needle by two percent. Are you with me?

Pastor Tim