In "Serving in Church Visitation" by Jerry M. Stubblefield, readers are provided with a comprehensive guide to the importance and practicalities of church visitation. The book explores the biblical basis for engaging in this ministry and offers practical tips for making effective visits. Stubblefield delves into the motives and attitudes that should underpin these visits, emphasizing the need for genuine care and love for others. He also provides various strategies for reaching out to different demographic groups, such as the elderly, newcomers, and the sick. Overall, the book serves as a valuable resource for those interested in church visitation, offering practical advice and biblical guidance for making a meaningful impact in people's lives.
Stubblefield begins by highlighting the biblical foundation for church visitation. By grounding this ministry in Scripture, he emphasizes its importance as an expression of Christian love and care for others. He stresses the need for genuine motives and an attitude of servanthood when engaging in visitation, encouraging readers to serve with humility and compassion.
In addition to the spiritual aspect, the author provides practical tips for making effective visits. This includes preparing for visits by researching the individuals or families beforehand and having a clear purpose in mind. Stubblefield also emphasizes the importance of active listening, empathetic responses, and creating a nurturing environment during the visits. He emphasizes the power of prayer and spiritual discernment in guiding these interactions.
Available on Audible
Furthermore, Stubblefield addresses the diverse needs within the congregation and offers strategies for reaching out to specific groups. He provides insights on connecting with the elderly, newcomers, and those facing illness or bereavement. He highlights the importance of adapting to each person's unique circumstances and tailoring visits to meet their specific needs.
Throughout the book, Stubblefield emphasizes the transformative impact that church visitation can have on both the giver and receiver. He reminds readers that these visits are not just about checking a box but are opportunities for building relationships, offering support, and sharing the love of Christ. With practical advice, biblical foundations, and a heart-centered approach, "Serving in Church Visitation" equips readers with the tools they need to make meaningful connections and effectively serve their church community.
What are readers saying?
Jerry M. Stubblefield's book "Serving in Church Visitation" has received mixed reviews from readers. The book focuses on effective ways to serve in church visitation and provides practical advice and guidance. Some readers found the author's insights valuable and applicable to their own experiences, considering the book a useful resource for both beginners and seasoned church visitors. They appreciated the author's personal anecdotes and stories, which added depth and relatability to the content.
However, a few reviewers were disappointed with the book's lack of depth and originality. They felt that the content was too generic and did not provide any groundbreaking ideas or approaches. These readers were hoping for more specific and unique insights into the practice of church visitation.
Another criticism of the book was its repetitive nature. Some readers felt that the author reiterated his points too often throughout the book, making it unnecessarily lengthy and redundant. They suggested that editing and condensing the content could have improved the overall reading experience.
Furthermore, a few readers commented on the book's writing style, describing it as dry and uninspiring. They felt that the author's tone lacked enthusiasm and could have been more engaging. These readers had difficulty staying motivated while reading and suggested that a more dynamic writing style would have made it more enjoyable.
In summary, "Serving in Church Visitation" by Jerry M. Stubblefield receives mixed reviews from readers. While some appreciate the practical advice and relatable anecdotes, others criticize the lack of depth, repetitive content, and dry writing style. The book may be beneficial for those seeking a comprehensive guide on church visitation, but it may not meet the expectations of readers looking for fresh and innovative perspectives on the topic.
ChurchVisitation ServingInChurch ChristianBooks