Onesimus Workbook

A PPENDIX • 49

real life, they became effective ministers of the gospel, and were able to train others to train others.

First Things First: Basic Convictions of Church Internships for Former Prisoners In order for a ministry internship program to work, we as oversight providers must lay a proper foundation. An internship is not just a job opportunity. It is a ministry which is built upon a solid biblical theology. All of the internship’s programs, activities, and functions build on the biblical framework for ministry. The clearer you are about your assumptions at the beginning of the program, the more likely it will be that your program will be effective. One of the first mistakes you can make in discipling former prisoners is to rush God’s leading and preparation in their lives. During the first year they should be careful to focus on finding a church and small group, offering their gifts in service, finding a job, mending relationships, and adjusting their attitudes and actions to conform with life on the outside. Do not quickly lay hands on potential candidates: Give former prisoners time to prove their discipleship in the body. Be wary to encourage a budding Christian disciple recently released from prison to engage in significant ministry leadership such as pastoring, church planting, leading Bible studies or small groups. They should concentrate on being a solid member of the body, participating in its church life, using their gifts in the church under pastoral leadership and in connection with the church’s duly authorized leaders during this year of transition. Do not be offended at your congregation’s concerns about incorporating former prisoners into its church family. A significant part of a congregation’s maturity in Christ is its ability to welcome and receive into its family new members who require a special reception and acceptance. “May the God of endurance and encouragement grant you to live in such harmony with one another, in accord with Christ Jesus, that together you may with one voice glorify the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ. Therefore welcome one another as Christ has welcomed you, for the glory of God” Rom. 15.5-7 (ESV). It may take time for a congregation to learn how to live in grace and love, and to overcome its natural inclinations to misjudge or stereotype believers in your midst who were formerly incarcerated. Because the congregation may feel unsafe to have former Recognize and take into account the unspoken assumptions of the congregation. Allow for time to adjust to civilian life: Let former prisoners learn to be members of the church.