Not Just a Soup Kitchen: How Mercy Ministry in the Local Church Transforms Us All

“David’s personal story of tragedy, hardship and brokenness shows how David was transformed through the powerful gospel of Christ and then called and shaped by God for the ministry of mercy and justice that he has pursued for the past years. As the story unfolds he moves on to tell us how the ACTS ministry of Tenth Presbyterian Church was started and has grown to engage the least, the last, and the lost from the community surrounding the church. This book is a must read for anyone who has been called of God to this kind of ministry. This is one of the most practical books on mercy and justice that I have ever read. I recommend it highly.”

“A must read for church leadership and individuals who sincerely desire to follow Jesus in service to those in need.”

“Combining the moving story of the author’s journey from brokenness and despair to ministry and leadership with great wisdom and ideas on congregational social ministry, this book both inspires and instructs. It is an excellent guide for local congregations seeking to expand their ministry to all kinds of hurting people in their community.

“For the last 20 years, David Apple has been a great friend who has provided an important example for anyone who is interested on doing exemplary work within urban ministry. This book is helpful to all those seeking to move beyond doing charity at an arm’s length and actually empowers those we are serving and bring them fully into the life of the church. I strongly encourage both church leaders and lay people looking to deepen their understanding of service to read this book.”

“David Apple’s life is a story of mercy received and then freely given to others. Through a lifetime of friendship to the urban poor, Dr. Apple has learned many valuable lessons about serving people in need. In this complete guide to mercy ministry, he explains biblical principles for healing, tells captivating stories of personal transformation, gives wise warnings about the mistakes that people often make in ministry, and shares many practical suggestions for truly addressing spiritual and material needs.”

“David Apple has a noble track record of showing mercy and serving ‘the least of these.‘ Not that he would necessarily be happy with that expression because he instinctively sees such people made in the image of God and accords them extraordinary dignity as such. I find that one of the most winsome and characteristic elements of his ministry. He is a champion of those who are most easily overlooked, and like our Lord, reaches out to help them. This ministry of mercy has led to his passion to revisit some of the biblical texts relating to the diaconate and he offers wise advice on how churches develop and utilize that significant office. You will find this work heart warming and challenging. May God use it to His glory.”