In an effort to honor the name of Christ and protect FIVE20 Ministries, we ask you to review and agree to these guidelines before participating in any outreach events with us. If you have questions or concerns, we would be happy to discuss them with you. We are fallen creatures and are prone to error. We’re not perfect, and we’re not asking you to be either. We just ask that all efforts are done in excellence and to the glory of God.
1. The goal of FIVE20 Ministries is to proclaim the one true gospel of Jesus Christ and to honor God with how we do it. This can be done through tracts, preaching and one-on-one conversations. This cannot be accomplished through your actions. Although our conduct as Christians is of utmost importance, nobody can “see” the gospel in you. We believe it is God who saves souls through the preaching of His Son. We should strive, however, to let the light of Christ shine through our good works.
2. You are expected to be a member in good standing in a Bible preaching local church, which we may contact. We are not your pastors or leaders, but may contact your pastor to discuss your behavior or qualifications.
3. Only men preach, and not all men may preach. If you are a male and would like to preach, talk to us, and we’ll discuss the possibility. You should have your pastor’s/elder’s recommendation before this conversation occurs. For the sake of the integrity of the ministry and accountability for all involved, we require a letter signed by your pastor/elder before you will be considered for preaching.
4. Men, women and children may pass out tracts to people and engage in one-on-one conversations. There are certain dynamics which may cause a situation to be less than ideal. For example, if a female is engaged in a one to one conversation with a male, this circumstance could lend itself to danger. The same principle may apply to children or to a male with a female.
5. Neither women nor children are ever to be alone. If you are a male, and bring a woman or child with you, you are responsible for their care and protection. If you are a woman and come alone, we will make every reasonable effort to care for your safety. Women and children must always ensure they have a companion while out, preferably a male. Regardless of whether you are a male, female or child, ALWAYS make sure someone knows when you are leaving the ministry area.
6. Coming out with us does not require you to evangelize, preach, pass out tracts or engage people in conversation. You are welcome to come along and watch or pray. Do not feel pressured to do something you are not comfortable doing.
7. It is important to understand that we are intentionally putting ourselves in the ‘world’ in order that we may reach sinners with the gospel. Because of this, please do not be surprised if you encounter:
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- People who are drunk, drinking or possibly using drugs.
- People who are dressed in a way that reveals parts of their body which is not appropriate.
- People who themselves are full of sexual lust.
- People who blaspheme God, use profanity or vulgar speech, and/or hurl insults towards us.
8. Although applicable to everyone, women should be especially be mindful about the way you dress when coming out, as it has the potential to attract the wrong kind of attention. Assuming that any inappropriate or immodest dress on your part is unintentional, you still may incite lust in a sinful soul. You should be extra-cautious in your appearance before an outreach, for your own protection, and so you would not cause an unbeliever or even a fellow teammate to sin. If you want to be sure, ask a brother or sister to honestly tell you; they will see you differently than you see yourself in a mirror.
9.While we are out, we always have one (or more) point person (i.e. someone who is “in charge”). This is important for several reasons. We ask that you humbly submit to the authority of the point person(s) during the outreach. These are the only people who may engage law enforcement unless law enforcement insists upon speaking to someone else, or the point person(s) has designated someone else as authorized. Any issues arising that may require law enforcement intervention must be brought to the attention of the point person(s); DO NOT contact law enforcement on your own. Most times, and historically, conflicts are resolved without the need for law enforcement to get involved.
10. Please remember that for centuries, and even today, people have been arrested, beaten and killed for their involvement in evangelistic work. Although never our goal, this is a possibility for us. As stated above, the goal is to proclaim the gospel, not to be persecuted. We will do nothing which brings about persecution intentionally, but we trust the Lord’s will in this matter. In general, our response to evil is not retaliation, but to overcome evil with good and to “turn the other cheek.” Each situation may be different and will require wisdom and self-control.
We hope these guidelines address and answer questions about our expectations and requirements. Feel free to ask any other’s you have. Please CLICK HERE to print and sign a copy of these guidelines.