There are many things one could choose to place ones focus upon that would adequately describe the ministry of Jesus while He walked the earth, and, of course, each of these focuses would prove to be justly defended for its need to be near the top of the list. However, there is one thing Jesus desired to do everywhere He went that truly explains His focus: He recognized the many opportunities that were waiting for Him.

One focus for today’s Church is Signs, Wonders, Miracles, & Mighty Deeds. Today, many place the focus for ministry entirely upon these. After all, signs, wonders, miracles and mighty deeds draw a crowd. But Jesus was not set on drawing a crowd to a building. Don’t take me wrong: drawing crowds can be a great thing. In His Great Commission address to His disciples (our commandment), Jesus told them to focus on “As you are going…preach the gospel”. Most of the emphasis for ministry in those days was for outside of buildings.

Yes, crowds followed Jesus but it was because He did Signs, Wonders, Miracles, & Mighty Deeds everywhere He went. Jesus demonstrated this “As you are going” approach to ministry and the need to be fully aware of the many opportunities waiting for us.

Many churches in the Western Hemisphere have become stagnant. We have placed so much emphasis on what happens inside the Church building that we minister to each other – over and over – missing multiplied dozens of ministry opportunities in the marketplace and elsewhere.

Jesus gave us the pattern for ministry. He proved that it works well. While the need to remain culturally relevant and up-to-date is a concern worth considering, Jesus displayed a timeless approach to delivering the Gospel message. It would do us well to take another look at how He ministered to people “As He was going…” If so, Signs, Wonders, Miracles, & Mighty Deeds will be the result of our ministry too. Look around…ministry opportunities are waiting for you today. Selah!

By His grace and for His glory,
Brother Bill