The Divine Call to Rural Ministry: A Harvest Awaits in the American Farmlands

Growing up in a farming community in southwest Kansas, my childhood was punctuated by the hum of tractors, the smell of freshly tilled soil, and the simplicity of rural life. For some surrounding communities, streetlights were a rarity, and so was the presence of a gospel-preaching church. This scarcity is not an isolated issue but a reflection of the broader neglect of rural areas in Christian ministry. The American church has long focused its resources on urban and suburban congregations, often at the expense of rural communities. While cities may offer attractive opportunities for large-scale ministry, we must not neglect the biblical mandate to minister to all people—regardless of their postal code. This article explores the pressing need, favorable outcomes, and practical ways to support rural ministry, particularly in farming communities. Inspired by thought-provoking contributions from Kyle Borg, Alex Eppstein, and Ron Klassen, we will integrate biblical insights to understand God's call to rural ministry.

The Need for Rural Ministry

Kyle Borg's article "The Need for Rural Ministry" effectively highlights the urgency of this focus. Borg reminds us that Jesus Himself did not overlook small and rural towns in His ministry. The Gospels are filled with instances where Jesus performed miracles and taught in villages and remote places. Consider, for example, the Samaritan woman at the well in John 4; a divine appointment in a rural setting had an immense impact.

Borg points out that 15-20% of the U.S. population lives in rural areas. Despite this sizable number, church resources disproportionately flow into urban centers. This neglect has led to spiritual vacuums in rural communities where social and economic challenges such as substance abuse, poverty, and broken families are rife. Borg argues that these issues have spiritual roots and consequences that the Gospel can only address meaningfully.

As Charles Spurgeon once said, "I will throw my weight to strengthen the weak things of Zion, and certainly I will not despise the day of small things." It is high time we heeded this call and directed our efforts toward this critical mission field. Zechariah 4:10 admonishes us not to "despise the day of small things." The Lord values faithfulness in small things (Matthew 25:23), affirming that rural communities are worthy of our time, resources, and Gospel proclamation.

Favorable Outcomes of Rural Ministry

In his article "Laboring Among the Cornfields: Pastoring Rural America," Alex Eppstein provides an invaluable perspective. He posits that ministry in rural areas may not witness explosive growth but can lead to a community of "quiet faithfulness." Eppstein's experience shows that the rural church can be a place of genuine fellowship, where the simplicity of life allows for deeper relationships.

Eppstein also cautions against the assumption that rural America is inherently more Christian. While many may identify as Christian, their faith is often nominal. Rural ministry, therefore, becomes a "hidden mission field" where the Gospel can be proclaimed anew.

During his discussion with Dr. Don Payne in the Engage 360 podcast, Ron Klassen argues that rural ministry allows for a more profound, more meaningful impact. The close-knit nature of rural communities means that ministers can become intimately involved in the lives of their congregations, providing more personalized pastoral care.

Practical Methods to Support Rural Ministry

Klassen's Rural Home Missionary Association offers a course called "Tact" (Town and Country Training) for seminarians. Such specialized training is invaluable for preparing future pastors for the nuances of rural ministry.

Both Klassen and Eppstein stress the need for adaptability, humility, and a deep respect for the unique characteristics of rural life. Ministers must approach rural communities without preconceived notions, ready to adapt their ministry style to meet the needs of the people.

Churches in urban areas can partner with rural congregations, providing them with resources, training, and manpower. Such partnerships echo the stewardship mentality of believing farmers, as pointed out by Dr. Payne.

Conclusion

The call to rural ministry is a divine imperative rooted in Scripture and exemplified in the life of Christ. Its favorable outcomes include forming faith-filled, closely-knit communities that can profoundly impact the Kingdom of God. Practical methods like specialized training, adaptability, and urban-rural partnerships can go a long way in supporting this mission field.

Let us heed the words of Jesus in Matthew 9:37-38: "The harvest is plentiful, but the laborers are few; therefore pray earnestly to the Lord of the harvest to send out laborers into his harvest."

It's time to redirect our gaze towards the fertile mission fields of rural America. There, amidst the cornfields and pastures, lies a harvest waiting to be gathered for the Kingdom of God.