What are the Biblical foundations for an ESL ministry? Perhaps you have considered them in one of our training sessions. At the start of another busy year of teaching and ministry, let us remind ourselves of these important questions:
(1) We often think of ESL ministry as missional outreach. The foundation for mission is a whole-hearted lifestyle of prayerful abiding in Christ and worship. “Missions exists because worship doesn’t. Worship is ultimate, not missions, because God is ultimate, not man. Worship is the fuel and goal in missions” (John Piper). It is out of our worship and enjoyment of God that we are “fueled” to make Him known; and the goal of our mission is that He be known, enjoyed and worshiped by others. Are worship and prayer at the heart of your life and that of your team?
(2) We are at the frontline which is often a battleground. Expect challenges – relationally, spiritually, personally. For example, a student may resist your teaching approach. There may be sporadic attendance. There may be conflicts within your team or amongst the students. Much prayer and wisdom are needed; we should also be ready to confess our sins and walk in the light. Are you keeping your own personal spiritual vitality in tip-top shape? Make sure that pastoral oversight is in place.
(3) Is your Church Leadership totally supportive? More than lip service is required. We need the church’s support spiritually but also financially and with promotion. When the life of the ministry is shaken, the full support of the pastors and the church helps it to continue to stand and thrive. Simply allowing the ministry to happen without active support from the leadership is inviting frustration.
(4) Is your team characterized by “Unity of Spirit and the Bond of Peace”? Is the fruit of the Spirit evident? Remember the team includes those serving with hospitality, refreshments, administration, follow-up support, as well as behind the scenes prayer and encouragement. The team needs to be working together, with one purpose and heart, and with recognition of the importance of each team member. Regular team meetings and prayer together are recommended. Remember, our love for one another is a very strong witness.
(5) Is your program characterized by Integrity? First, don’t promise more than what you can deliver. If at first the volunteers lack training, say you can only provide conversation practice rather than ‘English lessons’. If you intend to give Bible studies (rather than English for everyday purpose), say so explicitly. Second, pursue excellence in all you do. Prepare well; know what the needs are and try to meet them; pursue professional development opportunities for the volunteers (e.g. SOCEM organizes workshops of high quality).
(6) Above all, as 1 Corinthians 13 says, it is all ‘nothing’ without Love. Is your program a testimony to kindness, compassion, hospitality, as well as cultural and pedagogical sensitivity? Have you considered issues such as cultural adjustment, language learning challenges, and how to respect and honour other cultures? Seek to understand all the issues involved, and aim to become ‘a friend’ for the students.
Many of the SOCEM programs are exemplary. Please send in your testimonies, lessons learned, and thoughts to eslministries@gmail.com.