World Vision, Compassion International, Food for the Hungry, and Habitat for Humanity are just a few of many relief groups that derive their inspiration from Jesus Christ. They show compassion for people as Jesus taught His followers to do even as they share the Good News of the Gospel. After Jesus announced his mission to establish the Kingdom of God, he called 12 disciples and sent them out on a training mission. They were to deliver the message that people should repent of their sins and welcome God’s kingdom Jesus had come to establish on earth. In sending out His disciples, Christ gave them the ability to perform miracles—to heal the sick and drive out evil spirits from people. These miracles would confirm their message as having divine origin. But the nature of their miracles would not only confirm their authority as God’s agents. The miracles would demonstrate God’s compassion for those who hurt. The two-fold mission of sharing the Gospel and showing compassion to people has been the practice of dedicated followers of Christ ever since.
Dr. Melvin E. Banks, Sr.
Dr. Melvin E. Banks, Sr. is the founder and chairman of UMI (Urban Ministries, Inc.). Under his direction, UMI has grown to be a leading publisher of Christian education resources for churches in the African American community. Read More
