The Right Arm of the Gospel

22 Oct 2025, 10:32Goodluck Ajuzie (lDistrict Pastor)Bodmin, Cornwall, England, United Kingdom

The Right Arm of the Gospel

On 27 September 2025, Bodmin Seventh-day Adventist Church hosted the first phase of its Health Expo, offering free health checks and Christian literature to the local community. Praised by council representatives, the event reflected Christ’s ministry in action and laid the foundation for future outreach in Cornwall.

On September 27, 2025, the Bodmin Seventh-day Adventist Church in Cornwall witnessed a beautiful blend of faith and compassion as it hosted the first phase of its Health Expo and Free Health Check. The event provided free blood pressure, blood sugar, cholesterol, and BMI screenings, serving as a beacon of care and community outreach.

The programme was coordinated by Elder David Hatton, the Personal Ministries Leader and Coordinator for Cornwall churches, assisted by Terril Crichton and Cynthia, Bodmin Personal Ministries Leader. The effort was strengthened by the professional service of qualified nurses (Bev, Rata, Mui, and Chinyere), together with dedicated volunteers from the Bodmin and St Austell churches. Brother Mark and his wife, Claudia, journeyed to Exeter, bringing essential medical equipment that contributed greatly to the success of the day.

The response was heart-warming. Many community members came for their free health checks, expressing gratitude for the opportunity to learn more about their well-being. Local council representatives who attended the event praised the initiative, commending the church for its commitment to public service. They encouraged that this good work continues, acknowledging the vital role the church plays in promoting health and wholeness.

This event was far more than a medical exercise; numerous health magazines and Christian literature were distributed, making it the gospel in action. Christ’s ministry was both spiritual and practical. He preached the message of salvation and restored broken bodies, showing that the gospel is not only to be proclaimed but also to be lived out through compassionate service.

The Gospel in Action

When the church reaches out to meet the physical needs of the community, it reveals the compassionate heart of Christ. Jesus’ tender care for the suffering opened doors for spiritual transformation. Likewise, when people experience kindness through health outreach, they become more receptive to the message of salvation.

Ellen G. White beautifully expresses this divine principle:

The medical missionary work is to be to the work of the church as the right arm to the body. The third angel goes forth proclaiming the commandments of God and the faith of Jesus. The medical missionary work is the gospel in practice. All lines of work are to be harmoniously blended in giving the invitation: ‘Come; for all things are now ready.’

Testimonies for the Church, Vol. 8, p.77.2

The Church for the Community

A profound statement that emerged during the Expo was: “The church is for the community, not the community for the church.” These words capture the spirit of Christ’s mission, for He declared, “The Son of Man came not to be ministered unto, but to minister” (Matthew 20:28).

The Cornwall churches have demonstrated this principle through their compassionate service. The Health Expo was not about statistics or recognition; it was love in motion. Every blood pressure check, every kind smile, and every word of encouragement became a sermon of compassion. Those who attended did not just see a church; they experienced Christ through His people.

This is the essence of end-time gospel work. The health message and the plan of salvation are inseparable; together they prepare hearts for the soon return of Christ through both physical and spiritual renewal.

When we share the health message, we are not merely teaching lifestyle improvement; we are pointing souls to the Great Physician, Jesus Christ. Every check-up, seminar, and act of mercy becomes an invitation to experience the abundant life He offers.

Looking Ahead

The first phase of the Health Expo has laid a strong foundation for future outreach. The next phase of the Free Health Expo is scheduled for October 22, 23, and November 29, 2025, offering new opportunities to serve and connect with the community.

As we look forward to this event, may we remember that the right arm of the gospel must never grow weary. The world yearns for both physical healing and the hope that comes from knowing Christ. Let us continue to labour together, united in mission, that through our compassion and service the community may see the love of God revealed.

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