| VOCAL MUSIC TITLE: "Tears Of The Saints" Album: "Sound Of Melodies" Artist: Leeland |
| INSTRUMENTAL MUSIC TITLE: "Tears Of The Saints" Album: "Best Of Christian Rock" Artist: "Streets Of Gold All Stars" |
THE
BIBLE'S DEFINITION
of
"THE MINISTRY OF
RECONCILIATION"
2Co 5:17-21 "Therefore if any
man be in Christ, he is a new
creature: old things are
passed away;behold, all
things are become new.
And all things are of God,
who hath reconciled us to
himself by Jesus Christ, and
hath given to us the ministry
of reconciliation; To
wit, that God was in Christ,
reconciling the world unto
himself, not imputing their
trespasses unto them; and
hath committed unto us the
word of reconciliation. Now
then we are ambassadors
for Christ, as though God did
beseech you by us: we pray
you in Christ's stead, be ye
reconciled to God. For he
hath made him to be sin for
us, who knew no sin; that we
might be made the
righteousness of God in
him."KJRV
For ways on HOW you might
contribute to Christ's "Ministry
of Reconciliation" through
Bethel Ministries see our
page on CONTRIBUTING.
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ABOUT OUR THEME SONG We invite you to listen to the vocal version below. We found the music which you hear now to be an inspiration and motivation to those of us here at Bethel Ministries! We hope you enjoy it. It depicts the scriptures below. Luke 19:10 The Son of Man came to seek and to save the lost." And Luke 15:32 says, But we had to celebrate and be happy, because your brother was dead, but now he is alive; he was lost, but now he has been found. " Luke 15:3 And he spake unto them this parable, saying, Luke 15:4 What man of you, having a hundred sheep, and having lost one of them, doth not leave the ninety and nine in the wilderness, and go after that which is lost, until he find it? Luke 15:5 And when he hath found it, he layeth it on his shoulders, rejoicing. Luke 15:6 And when he cometh home, he calleth together his friends and his neighbors, saying unto them, Rejoice with me, for I have found my sheep which was lost. Luke 15:7 I say unto you, that even so there shall be joy in heaven over one sinner that repents, more than over ninety and nine righteous persons, who need no repentance. . |
| Bethel Ministries PO Box 44106 Boise, Idaho 83711-0106 Fax: (208) 345-5331 |
| TO DONATE Checks should be made payable to Bethel Ministries, and sent to: Bethel Ministries PO Box 44106 Boise, Idaho 83711-0106 Your support is always greatly appreciated. |
| CRITICAL FINANCIAL CRISIS ___________ CHALLENGES IN MONTHS AHEAD FOR BETHEL Bethel has been experiencing severe financial challenges for several months and consequently may have to curtail some of it's life saving operations. This is not good news for communities! Your prayers, and donations of any amount are especially needed at this time. |
Bethel Ministries is a Biblically Faith Based
MINISTRY OF RECONCILIATION
Utilizing many key Biblical principles of Christ's "Ministry of Reconciliation" found in
the Bible NT Book of 2 Corinthians 5:17-21
WHY CHRIST'S MINISTRY OF RECONCILIATION IS IMPORTANT
1) BECAUSE HUMAN BEINGS NEED IT
We believe that the most desirable lasting change comes through the help and
guidance of Jesus Christ. Bethel provides men's Christian discipleship homes
for transitional living, reeducation and transformation for ex-offenders who desire
to change their lives in Boise Idaho! With the emphasis on "before they re-enter the community".
Bethel utilizes faith in God's promises and practices biblical instruction and discipleship. Such as is
found in the following scriptures. Romans 11:26-27 says, "And so all Israel shall be saved:as it is
written, There shall come out of Sion the Deliverer, and shall turn away ungodliness from Jacob: For
this is My covenant unto them, when I shall take away their sins.John 8:36 says, "If the Son, Jesus
Christ sets one free, then he is free indeed." 2 Corinthians 5:17-21 says, "Therefore if any man be in
Christ, he is a new creature: old things are passed away; behold, all things are become new. And all
things are of God, who hath reconciled us to Himself by Jesus Christ, and hath given to us the ministry
of reconciliation; To wit, that God was in Christ, reconciling the world unto Himself, not imputing their
trespasses unto them; and hath committed unto
us the word of reconciliation."
As a ministry of reconciliation and Christian
partnership, we recognize that such a valuable and
necessary ministry to individuals and our community is
one which only a select few have been blessed and
gifted to perform on behalf of all. Reminded of this scripture,
“Blessed be God, even the Father of our Lord Jesus Christ,
the Father of mercies, and the God of all comfort; Who
comforteth us in all our tribulation, that we may be
able to comfort them which are in any trouble, by the
comfort wherewith we ourselves are comforted of God."
2Corinthians 1:3-4 Therefore we utilize the experiences of those having been
through the fire themselves and renewed unto good works, along with the
volunteer efforts of others who see the need to maintain this unique ministry.
Statistics show that lasting life-altering change can be achieved by ex-offenders
before they re-enter society.
2) BECAUSE COMMUNITIES NEED IT!
As a ministry of reconciliation, while transitioning men back into communities Bethel is helping
TRANSFORM communities into a safer places to live! Bethel Ministries answers specific needs in
our community and the individuals in it. To a Christian, it answers a call to utilize our gifts and talents
in fulfilling the fundamentals of scriptural instruction concerning Christ's clear cut ministry of
reconciliation. Yet, like other ministries, Bethel is a ministry that requires the full support of the
body of Christ to be effectual. Supplying some the deepest physical, moral and spiritual needs a
man could have is not easy. This support is provided by Bethel's program through its volunteers and
supporters, but alone , it is not enough.
“But how can we provide support, this isn't a
typical ministry some may ask?
It requires a supportive Christian network. How?
With each of us having differing spiritual gifts, we
must do what we can in unison. Consider:
1 Corinthians 12:4-12 "Now there are diversities of
gifts, but the same Spirit. And there are differences
of administrations, but the same Lord. And there
are diversities of operations, but it is the same God
which worketh all in all. But the manifestation of
the Spirit is given to every man to profit withal.
For to one is given by the Spirit the word of wisdom;
to another the word of knowledge by the same Spirit;
To another faith by the same Spirit; to another the
gifts of healing by the same Spirit; To another the
working of miracles; to another prophecy; to another
discerning of spirits; to another divers kinds of tongues;
to another the interpretation of tongues: But all these worketh that one and the selfsame Spirit,
dividing to every man severally as he will. For as the body is one, and hath many members, and all
the members of that one body, being many, are one body: so also is Christ." Ephesians 4:11-16
explains, “And He gave some to be apostles; and some, prophets;and some, evangelists; and some
pastors and teachers; for the perfecting of the saints, unto the work of ministering, unto the building up
of the body of Christ: till we all attain unto the unity of the faith, and of the knowledge of the Son of
God, unto a full grown man, unto the measure of the stature of the fullness of Christ: but speaking
truth in love, we may grow up in all things into Him, who is the head, even Christ; from whom all the
body fitly framed and knit together through that which every joint supplies, according to the working in
due measure of each several part, maketh the increase of the body unto the building up of itself in
love.” Serving those in need is as if we are serving Christ himself! United we stand divided we fall. For
further reading, review these basics, Matthew 25:34-46, Romans 12:4-8 and 3:23, and
Philippians 2:3-4.
3) CHRISTIANS' NEED IT TO EXERCISE PERSONAL GROWTH!
How? The Ministry of Reconciliation being conducted through Christin community partnership, while
utilizing and combining their God given talents, abilities, and gifts in service to man and community,
not only are witnessing Christian love and Christ's mercy to all, proclaiming Christ, but also are
blessed with opportunity for developing personal Christian character and a closer walk with Christ!
COMBINING EFFORTS TO CARRY OUT MINISTRIES OF RECONCILIATION SHOULD
PROVIDE MUTUAL SUPPORT AND BUILD UP THE UNIFICATION OF THE BODY OF
CHRIST, BUT UNFORTUNATELY THAT ISN'T ALWAYS THE CASE.
We recognize how valuable and necessary the ministry of Bethel is to our communities.
It is highly specialized and one which only a select few have been blessed and gifted
to perform on the behalf of all. Yet Bethel’s ministry is only a part of the many ministries which
Christ’s body preforms in concert for those in need. It conducts its specific set of ministerial works
just as many other ministries preform specialized services according to applicable gifts and talents,
all of which share the same desired outcome - the fullness and increase of the body of Christ. As
part of His body, the Bethel team recognizes our need for full support from the rest of the body of
Christ in order to be effectual! Every ministry needs the cheering section, supporters and
suppliers. As the whole body of Christ, we are all aware of our individual (Christian) body parts and
how they work interdependently, and how sometimes, we just need to communicate with one
another. Like for example, we tell ourselves, to put our rain coat on, or that it’s time to get some rest.
All in order to take care of the body and keep ALL parts in peak performance. (We are speaking of the
performance of the body of Christ). It pleases the Father to see us, His children's ministries, all
working together and supporting each other. It is always good to be reminded and stir each other
up unto MORE good works!
Bethel is an award winning, non-profit, faith-based organization which should operate primarily on
the foresight and generosity of supporters and volunteers who become aware of Bethel’s services
and understand its value for the good of our communities. But that isn't always the case.
Unfortunately at present, the State only helps our program by providing new residents with a small,
one-time monetary allotment upon leaving incarceration (as well as directives and regular contact
with Department of Corrections and the Department of Parole, who set requirements for program
participation which are required of all Bethel residents). However the day to day operations which
keep our doors open is a constant struggle and unknown from month to month. We are barely
functioning without the additional needed help and support of the rest of the Body of our Lord and
Savior Jesus Christ. Yet we could achieve so much more if regularly fueled by volunteer’s prayers,
financial support, time, goods and sermons.
4) OUR COMMUNITIES’S NEED HE WHOLE BODY OF CHRIST,
HIS CHURCH ON THEIR SIDE, SUPPORTING "THE MINISTRY OF RECONCILIATION".
INDIVIDUALS AND COMMUNITIES ALIKE NEED ALL THE"CHRISTIAN HELP" THEY WILL ALLOW!
Communities all to often complain because something isn't being done to remedy the situation of ex-
offenders being released into communities without being reeducated. And most people admit that
the reeducation these men need is of a moral, ethical and religious nature. It should be of no
surprise that the only organizations that supply that kind of reeducation are faith-based
religious organizations which are few and far between. It is a blessed community which has such
a faith-based ministry in its midst. Such ministries should be in operation in every community
especially those where prisoners are paroled and released.
We function with the help of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ, through the vision of our
volunteer’s prayers, financial support, time, goods, sermon messages and shared education of
others about such ministries as Bethel Ministries. You can serve your community through Bethel and
like ministries in the ways that you have been gifted.
We understand that everyone is not skilled and spiritually equipped to deal with the one-on-one,
day-to-day operations within such a transition home. Yet, in this ongoing saga to overcome evil
with good in our communities, your Church as part of the extended body of Christ, may partner
with such ministries like Bethel's in your community in various ways. We need more people
trained in such ministerial work to volunteer time and conduct speciality classes and Bible studies
from a Christian perspective. Monetary help for example, such as pledging or collecting any dollar
amount as a Church or individual chooses over time helps. For example, just one dollar a month per
member from a congregation would be a tremendous help. Spreading the word, spreading fliers and
sending others to our informative web site here at Bethel, all further our cause and help other such
ministries develop elsewhere! Like others, Bethel Ministries also needs your support to announce to
the rest of the body of Christ," Hey, over here, lend us a hand will you"? Encourage
your church members to participate in the ways that they can.
Unfortunately, it must be said again, "there are far too few ministries like Bethel Ministries." Someone
needs to be doing such work in every community! It is about filling needs within the framework of the
"ministry of reconciliation" for those members of society who want to be renewed to an upright
condition by learning how to respect society and live at peace with all men. To be free, productive and
trustworthy, law abiding citizens.
Bethel Ministries aims high when going forward with its ministry and exercises faith in performing
Christ's "ministry of reconciliation." We know as Mark 10:25-26-27 says, "It is easier for a camel to go
through the eye of a needle, than for a rich man to enter into the kingdom of God. And they were
astonished out of measure, saying among themselves, Who then can be saved? And Jesus looking
upon them saith, With men it is impossible, but not with God: for with God all things are possible."
Bethel maintains four transitional homes in Boise, Idaho with the highest of Christian values
and directives. 90% of all Bethel Ministries graduates have not returned to prison. Most are now
living productive "Christ-changed” lives due to the influence which Christ had on them while in Bethel’
s program. We are confident and have witnessed that even those who may drop out of the
program are embedded with the lasting “seeds of change” which will motivate and prick their
consciences in the future.
All men having experienced the Bethel Ministries program are equipped to hold the tools
needed to etch out a good future as they re-enter society, unmonitored and on their own. Bethel
seeks to implant as many “seeds of change“ and water as much as possible. Lasting good
“seeds of change” that can only sprout new life and bring the much needed change which will benefit
our communities! Bethel promotes Christ's ministry of reconciliation, and strives to motivate and
enlist the help of our Christian communities in this ministry of reconciliation.
It is all about Christians partnering together in the community “taking up HIS cross”,“sharing His
(Christ's) yoke,” and following His example wherever He goes. Due to Bethel's specialized, unique
ministry, only a few are qualified to handle the one-on-one, day-to-day, hands-on operations, yet
these few cannot fully support such a ministry alone. We always need suppliers, laborers
and prayer partners.
5) BY EXAMPLE, THE MINISTRY OF RECONCILIATION IN ACTION PROVIDES COMMUNITIES MUCH
NEEDED CHRISTIAN LEADERSHIP THROUGH EDUCATION AND MOTIVATION.
EDUCATION concerning Christ's Ministry of Reconciliation, what it entails and how ministries like
Bethel's need to be carried out is vital to the health of our communities.
We and other ministries like us need more laborers. Others to hold up the hands of the few so they
do not become weary and worn thin to the point that the ministry would have to close its doors! Satan
would love that!
Unfortunately among communities, Christian volunteer ministries such as Bethel are too often
misunderstood, attacked and shunned while at the same time remain some of the most necessary
Christian ministry services to our communities. It is one of the least understood ministries and most
feared. Therefore we stress education about Christ’s ministry of reconciliation as taught in 2
Corinthians 5: 17-20. Christ's "ministry of reconciliation" can be one of the most tricky and difficult
ministries to teach and grasp. Yet somebody has to teach it and still others have to carry it out using
the gifts and talents given to some to do it.
Every Christian and upright citizen acknowledges the value and benefit of such a ministry. But all too
often it is believed that it is "something that others do." Or it is said, "there are public services and
ministries out there that have THAT NEED covered." This is a popular misconception. Such a
ministry requires the support of the entire body of Christ. The prison populations are growing by
leaps and bounds and very little is being planned where all these prisoners go after being released.
With even less concern for what condition ex-prisoners are in when released, usually in a worse
state than when they went in. Typically, these men are released to continue according to their own
devices as they have all their lives! And more often than not, it is due to a lack of spiritual education.
Yet in the back of many Christian minds, "the least of these" are forgotten or even turned away from
the difficult process of reconciliation. Unfortunately many even fear ministries such as Bethel and as
a result reap the benefits in their communities.
6)THE MINISTRY OF RECONCILIATION IS VERY IMPORTANT!
Will you plant and water those seeds of change with us? The Lord of the harvest will reap fruit in due
season through the numerous ways you are able to help.
For those who come through Bethel's doors; lasting heartfelt change, a renewal of spirit, body and
mind is what is achieved. Motivated and equipped for a successful journey ahead. Those who are
released to Bethel's care need help and a way provided which shows them the way to go and how to
walk in the right paths. Right paths as in: Jeremiah 7:23 "This thing commanded I them, saying,
Obey My voice, and I will be your God, and ye shall be My people: and walk ye in all the ways that I
have commanded you, that it may be well unto you." Micah 4:2 "And many nations shall come, and
say, Come, and let us go up to the mountain of the LORD, and to the house of the God of Jacob; and
He will teach us of his ways, and we will walk in His paths: for the law shall go forth of Zion, and the
word of the LORD from Jerusalem."
__________________________________
MINISTRY OF RECONCILIATION
Utilizing many key Biblical principles of Christ's "Ministry of Reconciliation" found in
the Bible NT Book of 2 Corinthians 5:17-21
WHY CHRIST'S MINISTRY OF RECONCILIATION IS IMPORTANT
1) BECAUSE HUMAN BEINGS NEED IT
We believe that the most desirable lasting change comes through the help and
guidance of Jesus Christ. Bethel provides men's Christian discipleship homes
for transitional living, reeducation and transformation for ex-offenders who desire
to change their lives in Boise Idaho! With the emphasis on "before they re-enter the community".
Bethel utilizes faith in God's promises and practices biblical instruction and discipleship. Such as is
found in the following scriptures. Romans 11:26-27 says, "And so all Israel shall be saved:as it is
written, There shall come out of Sion the Deliverer, and shall turn away ungodliness from Jacob: For
this is My covenant unto them, when I shall take away their sins.John 8:36 says, "If the Son, Jesus
Christ sets one free, then he is free indeed." 2 Corinthians 5:17-21 says, "Therefore if any man be in
Christ, he is a new creature: old things are passed away; behold, all things are become new. And all
things are of God, who hath reconciled us to Himself by Jesus Christ, and hath given to us the ministry
of reconciliation; To wit, that God was in Christ, reconciling the world unto Himself, not imputing their
trespasses unto them; and hath committed unto
us the word of reconciliation."
As a ministry of reconciliation and Christian
partnership, we recognize that such a valuable and
necessary ministry to individuals and our community is
one which only a select few have been blessed and
gifted to perform on behalf of all. Reminded of this scripture,
“Blessed be God, even the Father of our Lord Jesus Christ,
the Father of mercies, and the God of all comfort; Who
comforteth us in all our tribulation, that we may be
able to comfort them which are in any trouble, by the
comfort wherewith we ourselves are comforted of God."
2Corinthians 1:3-4 Therefore we utilize the experiences of those having been
through the fire themselves and renewed unto good works, along with the
volunteer efforts of others who see the need to maintain this unique ministry.
Statistics show that lasting life-altering change can be achieved by ex-offenders
before they re-enter society.
2) BECAUSE COMMUNITIES NEED IT!
As a ministry of reconciliation, while transitioning men back into communities Bethel is helping
TRANSFORM communities into a safer places to live! Bethel Ministries answers specific needs in
our community and the individuals in it. To a Christian, it answers a call to utilize our gifts and talents
in fulfilling the fundamentals of scriptural instruction concerning Christ's clear cut ministry of
reconciliation. Yet, like other ministries, Bethel is a ministry that requires the full support of the
body of Christ to be effectual. Supplying some the deepest physical, moral and spiritual needs a
man could have is not easy. This support is provided by Bethel's program through its volunteers and
supporters, but alone , it is not enough.
“But how can we provide support, this isn't a
typical ministry some may ask?
It requires a supportive Christian network. How?
With each of us having differing spiritual gifts, we
must do what we can in unison. Consider:
1 Corinthians 12:4-12 "Now there are diversities of
gifts, but the same Spirit. And there are differences
of administrations, but the same Lord. And there
are diversities of operations, but it is the same God
which worketh all in all. But the manifestation of
the Spirit is given to every man to profit withal.
For to one is given by the Spirit the word of wisdom;
to another the word of knowledge by the same Spirit;
To another faith by the same Spirit; to another the
gifts of healing by the same Spirit; To another the
working of miracles; to another prophecy; to another
discerning of spirits; to another divers kinds of tongues;
to another the interpretation of tongues: But all these worketh that one and the selfsame Spirit,
dividing to every man severally as he will. For as the body is one, and hath many members, and all
the members of that one body, being many, are one body: so also is Christ." Ephesians 4:11-16
explains, “And He gave some to be apostles; and some, prophets;and some, evangelists; and some
pastors and teachers; for the perfecting of the saints, unto the work of ministering, unto the building up
of the body of Christ: till we all attain unto the unity of the faith, and of the knowledge of the Son of
God, unto a full grown man, unto the measure of the stature of the fullness of Christ: but speaking
truth in love, we may grow up in all things into Him, who is the head, even Christ; from whom all the
body fitly framed and knit together through that which every joint supplies, according to the working in
due measure of each several part, maketh the increase of the body unto the building up of itself in
love.” Serving those in need is as if we are serving Christ himself! United we stand divided we fall. For
further reading, review these basics, Matthew 25:34-46, Romans 12:4-8 and 3:23, and
Philippians 2:3-4.
3) CHRISTIANS' NEED IT TO EXERCISE PERSONAL GROWTH!
How? The Ministry of Reconciliation being conducted through Christin community partnership, while
utilizing and combining their God given talents, abilities, and gifts in service to man and community,
not only are witnessing Christian love and Christ's mercy to all, proclaiming Christ, but also are
blessed with opportunity for developing personal Christian character and a closer walk with Christ!
COMBINING EFFORTS TO CARRY OUT MINISTRIES OF RECONCILIATION SHOULD
PROVIDE MUTUAL SUPPORT AND BUILD UP THE UNIFICATION OF THE BODY OF
CHRIST, BUT UNFORTUNATELY THAT ISN'T ALWAYS THE CASE.
We recognize how valuable and necessary the ministry of Bethel is to our communities.
It is highly specialized and one which only a select few have been blessed and gifted
to perform on the behalf of all. Yet Bethel’s ministry is only a part of the many ministries which
Christ’s body preforms in concert for those in need. It conducts its specific set of ministerial works
just as many other ministries preform specialized services according to applicable gifts and talents,
all of which share the same desired outcome - the fullness and increase of the body of Christ. As
part of His body, the Bethel team recognizes our need for full support from the rest of the body of
Christ in order to be effectual! Every ministry needs the cheering section, supporters and
suppliers. As the whole body of Christ, we are all aware of our individual (Christian) body parts and
how they work interdependently, and how sometimes, we just need to communicate with one
another. Like for example, we tell ourselves, to put our rain coat on, or that it’s time to get some rest.
All in order to take care of the body and keep ALL parts in peak performance. (We are speaking of the
performance of the body of Christ). It pleases the Father to see us, His children's ministries, all
working together and supporting each other. It is always good to be reminded and stir each other
up unto MORE good works!
Bethel is an award winning, non-profit, faith-based organization which should operate primarily on
the foresight and generosity of supporters and volunteers who become aware of Bethel’s services
and understand its value for the good of our communities. But that isn't always the case.
Unfortunately at present, the State only helps our program by providing new residents with a small,
one-time monetary allotment upon leaving incarceration (as well as directives and regular contact
with Department of Corrections and the Department of Parole, who set requirements for program
participation which are required of all Bethel residents). However the day to day operations which
keep our doors open is a constant struggle and unknown from month to month. We are barely
functioning without the additional needed help and support of the rest of the Body of our Lord and
Savior Jesus Christ. Yet we could achieve so much more if regularly fueled by volunteer’s prayers,
financial support, time, goods and sermons.
4) OUR COMMUNITIES’S NEED HE WHOLE BODY OF CHRIST,
HIS CHURCH ON THEIR SIDE, SUPPORTING "THE MINISTRY OF RECONCILIATION".
INDIVIDUALS AND COMMUNITIES ALIKE NEED ALL THE"CHRISTIAN HELP" THEY WILL ALLOW!
Communities all to often complain because something isn't being done to remedy the situation of ex-
offenders being released into communities without being reeducated. And most people admit that
the reeducation these men need is of a moral, ethical and religious nature. It should be of no
surprise that the only organizations that supply that kind of reeducation are faith-based
religious organizations which are few and far between. It is a blessed community which has such
a faith-based ministry in its midst. Such ministries should be in operation in every community
especially those where prisoners are paroled and released.
We function with the help of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ, through the vision of our
volunteer’s prayers, financial support, time, goods, sermon messages and shared education of
others about such ministries as Bethel Ministries. You can serve your community through Bethel and
like ministries in the ways that you have been gifted.
We understand that everyone is not skilled and spiritually equipped to deal with the one-on-one,
day-to-day operations within such a transition home. Yet, in this ongoing saga to overcome evil
with good in our communities, your Church as part of the extended body of Christ, may partner
with such ministries like Bethel's in your community in various ways. We need more people
trained in such ministerial work to volunteer time and conduct speciality classes and Bible studies
from a Christian perspective. Monetary help for example, such as pledging or collecting any dollar
amount as a Church or individual chooses over time helps. For example, just one dollar a month per
member from a congregation would be a tremendous help. Spreading the word, spreading fliers and
sending others to our informative web site here at Bethel, all further our cause and help other such
ministries develop elsewhere! Like others, Bethel Ministries also needs your support to announce to
the rest of the body of Christ," Hey, over here, lend us a hand will you"? Encourage
your church members to participate in the ways that they can.
Unfortunately, it must be said again, "there are far too few ministries like Bethel Ministries." Someone
needs to be doing such work in every community! It is about filling needs within the framework of the
"ministry of reconciliation" for those members of society who want to be renewed to an upright
condition by learning how to respect society and live at peace with all men. To be free, productive and
trustworthy, law abiding citizens.
Bethel Ministries aims high when going forward with its ministry and exercises faith in performing
Christ's "ministry of reconciliation." We know as Mark 10:25-26-27 says, "It is easier for a camel to go
through the eye of a needle, than for a rich man to enter into the kingdom of God. And they were
astonished out of measure, saying among themselves, Who then can be saved? And Jesus looking
upon them saith, With men it is impossible, but not with God: for with God all things are possible."
Bethel maintains four transitional homes in Boise, Idaho with the highest of Christian values
and directives. 90% of all Bethel Ministries graduates have not returned to prison. Most are now
living productive "Christ-changed” lives due to the influence which Christ had on them while in Bethel’
s program. We are confident and have witnessed that even those who may drop out of the
program are embedded with the lasting “seeds of change” which will motivate and prick their
consciences in the future.
All men having experienced the Bethel Ministries program are equipped to hold the tools
needed to etch out a good future as they re-enter society, unmonitored and on their own. Bethel
seeks to implant as many “seeds of change“ and water as much as possible. Lasting good
“seeds of change” that can only sprout new life and bring the much needed change which will benefit
our communities! Bethel promotes Christ's ministry of reconciliation, and strives to motivate and
enlist the help of our Christian communities in this ministry of reconciliation.
It is all about Christians partnering together in the community “taking up HIS cross”,“sharing His
(Christ's) yoke,” and following His example wherever He goes. Due to Bethel's specialized, unique
ministry, only a few are qualified to handle the one-on-one, day-to-day, hands-on operations, yet
these few cannot fully support such a ministry alone. We always need suppliers, laborers
and prayer partners.
5) BY EXAMPLE, THE MINISTRY OF RECONCILIATION IN ACTION PROVIDES COMMUNITIES MUCH
NEEDED CHRISTIAN LEADERSHIP THROUGH EDUCATION AND MOTIVATION.
EDUCATION concerning Christ's Ministry of Reconciliation, what it entails and how ministries like
Bethel's need to be carried out is vital to the health of our communities.
We and other ministries like us need more laborers. Others to hold up the hands of the few so they
do not become weary and worn thin to the point that the ministry would have to close its doors! Satan
would love that!
Unfortunately among communities, Christian volunteer ministries such as Bethel are too often
misunderstood, attacked and shunned while at the same time remain some of the most necessary
Christian ministry services to our communities. It is one of the least understood ministries and most
feared. Therefore we stress education about Christ’s ministry of reconciliation as taught in 2
Corinthians 5: 17-20. Christ's "ministry of reconciliation" can be one of the most tricky and difficult
ministries to teach and grasp. Yet somebody has to teach it and still others have to carry it out using
the gifts and talents given to some to do it.
Every Christian and upright citizen acknowledges the value and benefit of such a ministry. But all too
often it is believed that it is "something that others do." Or it is said, "there are public services and
ministries out there that have THAT NEED covered." This is a popular misconception. Such a
ministry requires the support of the entire body of Christ. The prison populations are growing by
leaps and bounds and very little is being planned where all these prisoners go after being released.
With even less concern for what condition ex-prisoners are in when released, usually in a worse
state than when they went in. Typically, these men are released to continue according to their own
devices as they have all their lives! And more often than not, it is due to a lack of spiritual education.
Yet in the back of many Christian minds, "the least of these" are forgotten or even turned away from
the difficult process of reconciliation. Unfortunately many even fear ministries such as Bethel and as
a result reap the benefits in their communities.
6)THE MINISTRY OF RECONCILIATION IS VERY IMPORTANT!
Will you plant and water those seeds of change with us? The Lord of the harvest will reap fruit in due
season through the numerous ways you are able to help.
For those who come through Bethel's doors; lasting heartfelt change, a renewal of spirit, body and
mind is what is achieved. Motivated and equipped for a successful journey ahead. Those who are
released to Bethel's care need help and a way provided which shows them the way to go and how to
walk in the right paths. Right paths as in: Jeremiah 7:23 "This thing commanded I them, saying,
Obey My voice, and I will be your God, and ye shall be My people: and walk ye in all the ways that I
have commanded you, that it may be well unto you." Micah 4:2 "And many nations shall come, and
say, Come, and let us go up to the mountain of the LORD, and to the house of the God of Jacob; and
He will teach us of his ways, and we will walk in His paths: for the law shall go forth of Zion, and the
word of the LORD from Jerusalem."
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Music volume control is at the bottom of the page with our theme song information. |
BETHEL MINISTRIES
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| Church of the Brethren in Boise Idaho |
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Read the Biblical account of
The Prodigal Son:
Luke 15:11-32
The Prodigal Son:
Luke 15:11-32
| MERCY? HOPE? "What Is Mercy" and "What Is Hope" |
| Bethel Ministries is occasionally mentioned by our local news media. So we have archived the various media pieces for viewing. IN THE NEWS ARCHIVES |
BETHEL
MINISTRIES
IN THE
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MINISTRIES
IN THE
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The Ministry | The Program | The Criteria | Resident Life | Program Applications | Calendar | In The News | Idaho Laws Annual Report | Contact Us | Affiliations & Links | Donate | Bethel Ministries PO Box 44106 Boise, Idaho 83711-0106 | Fax: (208) 345-5331 Bethel Ministries © 2009 | A 501 (c) (3) non-profit organization. |