From Bob Lupton's "Toxic Charities"

Oath:

? Never do for the poor what have (or could have) the capacity to do for themselves

? Limit one-way giving to emergency situations.

? Strive to empower the poor through employment, lending, and investing, using grants sparingly to reinforce achievements.

? Subordinate self-interest to the needs of those being served.

? Listen closely to those you seek to help, especially to what is not being said - unspoken feelings may contain essential clues to effective service.

? Above all, do no harm.

Discussion Questions for:  A Lame Excuse for Urban Missions
Acts 3:1-10

Outreach Sunday, Dan Reeve, CEO or Center for Student Missions

Read the passage.

Opening:

When was the last time you jumped for joy?

Dig:

As the cripple, what would you write as a diary entry for a typical day?

When Peter grabs your hand, what thoughts flood your mind?

What do you write in your diary after the events here?

Reflect:

React to Bob Lupton’s oath when it comes to helping the poor. Which one is easier for you to do? What do you like about the oath? What do you disagree with in the oath?

? Never do for the poor what have (or could have) the capacity to do for themselves

? Limit one-way giving to emergency situations.

? Strive to empower the poor through employment, lending, and investing, using grants sparingly to reinforce achievements.

? Subordinate self-interest to the needs of those being served.

? Listen closely to those you seek to help, especially to what is not being said - unspoken feelings may contain essential clues to effective service.

? Above all, do no harm.

Close by sharing your answers and then praying together.