“He sent them to preach the kingdom of God and to heal the sick.” — Luke 9:2
Utanbech Missions International gives all glory and honour to God for the successful medical outreach held at St. Paul’s Anglican Church, Bebi. The outreach was carried out in partnership with Oneness Evangelical Ministry, Ikom, and the Diocese of Ogoja (Anglican Communion), bringing together the body of Christ to serve communities through compassion, prayer, and practical acts of love.
This outreach reflects the heart of Christian mission: reaching people not only with the message of salvation but also with care for their physical, emotional, and spiritual wellbeing. Through medical outreaches, the Church continues the ministry model demonstrated by Jesus Christ during His earthly ministry.
The Ministry of Healing: Following the Example of Christ
Throughout the Gospels, we see that Jesus was deeply concerned about the health and wellbeing of people. His ministry was marked by teaching, preaching, and healing. He did not separate spiritual needs from physical needs; instead, He demonstrated God’s love by restoring people completely.
One of the clearest examples is found in Matthew 9:35, where Scripture says:
“Jesus went through all the towns and villages, teaching in their synagogues, proclaiming the good news of the kingdom and healing every disease and sickness.”
Jesus travelled from place to place, meeting people where they were and responding to their needs. He healed the blind, restored the lame, cleansed those suffering from diseases, and brought hope to those who had been forgotten by society.
The medical outreach at St. Paul’s Anglican Church, Bebi, follows this same pattern. By providing healthcare services and showing compassion, Utanbech Missions International continues to demonstrate that the love of Christ extends to every area of human life.
Healing as an Expression of God’s Compassion
Medical outreach is more than providing treatment; it is an opportunity to demonstrate the compassion of God. Many communities face challenges accessing quality healthcare due to distance, financial limitations, or lack of medical facilities. Through outreaches, healthcare professionals and mission workers bring essential services closer to the people.
In Matthew 14:14, when Jesus saw the crowd, Scripture records:
“He had compassion on them and healed their sick.”
Compassion was at the centre of Christ’s healing ministry. He did not ignore the suffering of people. He responded with mercy and action.
The work carried out at Bebi reflects this same compassion. By reaching out to individuals and families, the mission provided an opportunity for people to experience care, encouragement, and the love of God.
The Apostles Continued the Ministry of Healing
The healing ministry did not end with Jesus’ ascension. The apostles continued to demonstrate God’s power through acts of healing and restoration.
In the book of Acts, we see examples of the apostles caring for the sick and bringing healing through the power of God. In Acts 3:6-8, Peter healed a man who had been unable to walk, declaring:
“In the name of Jesus Christ of Nazareth, walk.”
The man was restored, and his healing became a testimony that pointed people to God.
Similarly, Acts 9:34 records Peter healing Aeneas, who had been bedridden for years:
“Aeneas, Jesus Christ heals you. Get up and roll up your mat.”
These examples remind us that caring for the sick has always been part of the mission of the Church.
Biblical Examples of Caring for the Sick
Medical care and compassion are also reflected throughout the Old Testament. God repeatedly showed concern for the wellbeing of His people. In Exodus 15:26, God revealed Himself as:
“I am the LORD who heals you.”
The Old Testament also highlights the importance of caring for those who are vulnerable. The prophets frequently called God’s people to demonstrate justice, mercy, and practical love toward others.
The story of the Good Samaritan, taught by Jesus in Luke 10:25-37, also provides a powerful lesson about compassionate care. The Samaritan saw a wounded man, attended to his injuries, and ensured he received further help. This story teaches believers that true love requires action.
The Role of Medical Outreach in Modern Missions
Today, medical outreach remains a powerful tool for sharing God’s love with communities. It creates opportunities to serve people who may never enter a church building but can experience Christ through acts of kindness and compassion.
A successful medical outreach can provide:
- Basic health screenings and medical consultations
- Health education and preventive care awareness
- Support for vulnerable families
- Encouragement and prayer for those in need
- A practical demonstration of Christian love
The outreach at St. Paul’s Anglican Church, Bebi, is a reminder that missions involve meeting people at their point of need. The Church is called not only to proclaim the Gospel but also to reflect Christ’s compassion through service.
Giving Thanks to God
Utanbech Missions International appreciates the partnership and support of Oneness Evangelical Ministry, Ikom, and the Diocese of Ogoja (Anglican Communion) in making this outreach possible.
We give God all the glory for the lives touched, the people served, and the opportunity to demonstrate His love through healthcare and ministry.
As we continue this mission journey, we remain committed to following the example of Jesus Christ — bringing hope, healing, and the message of salvation to communities.
“Let us not love with words or speech but with actions and in truth.” — 1 John 3:18
To God alone be all the glory.
