1st Century Church Outreach Programs

How The Early Church Did Outreach
by Torrey H. Brinkley

Many modern churches today have unique forms of ministry which attempt to reach out to the "seekers" in their communities. From a multitude of musical presentations, coffee bars, sports activities, etc., there seems to be a never-ending number of ways that Christians look to touch and then talk of their faith to non-believers.

Until recently it was not known how the First Century Church also extended an olive branch to its pagan neighbors, those philosophical Greeks, the empire-building Romans, and tradition-bound Jews.But recently unearthed scrolls have given us marvelous insights into what the early church tried to reach the world apart from Christ.

1) Fishing lessons for boys and their dads. This weekend session was taught by Peter and James.

2) Mending tents and repairing fish nets. The Apostle Paul led this class, often just outside the town gate, where he could add theological tips to the exercise.

3) St. Peter's Sword Fighting Skills. This shows young men how to successfully wield this valuable weapon against fierce enemies. Discussion about the Christian's armor follows.

4) Living in the Catacombs. Early church women display their tasteful Christian art decorations in dull, drab, underground living situations, so as to make a warm, pleasant Christian home environment.

5) First Century Hymn Writing. How to create peppy, upbeat songs to remember fun times with Jesus, that will attract Jews and Greeks alike.

6) Christmas Drama Workshops. Teaching local church drama teams how to keep your donkeys, cows and camels from eating all the hay that you've placed in the manger scene.

7) Guided Tours to where Jesus gave the Sermon on the Mount. For those who stay for the re-reading of the message, free fish and loaves of bread will be served.

8) Easter Dramatization Plans. Practicing moving the heavy stone from the rock tombs.

9) Plan Your Wedding With Early Church Wedding Planners: We will turn water you bring into wine, for a small donation.

10) Home Builder's Club meets at the seashore. Watch disciples attempting to build a house upon the rocks. Roman sceptics will concurrently be invited to build their house upon the sandy soil.

11) Free Tax Preparation Seminars. Taught by Matthew and Zachias.

12) Boat rides on the Sea of Galilee. See where Jesus calmed the storm, and hear the Disciples re-tell the thrilling adventure.

If you say, "Impossible! The early church founders, who often were martyred for their faith, would never do such things." Then, why not? And, if such activity would not be acceptable for the Early Church, well, are we not thinking clearly & carefully what our activities our churches today perform?