Not Just a Soup Kitchen (Slightly Imperfect)

Endorsements:          

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

—Rev. David W. Delaplane

Former National Chairman of The Clergy Committee

Recipient, US Presidential Award for Outstanding Service on Behalf of Victims of Crime

“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 heartwarming and challenging. May God use it to His glory.”

—Liam Goligher, Senior Minister

Tenth Presbyterian Church

“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.”

—Bill Krispin, Former Executive Director

Center for Urban Theological Studies and CityNet Ministries

“David Apple is a veteran from the front lines of the ministry of mercy. This practical and clear guide offers real-life wisdom gleaned from countless lives blessed through Christlike care. Through Not Just a Soup Kitchen, you and your congregation can be transformed as you partake of the spiritual nourishment offered here.”

—Dr. Peter A. Lillback, President

Westminster Theological Seminary-Philadelphia

“For the last twenty years, David Apple has been a great friend who has provided an important example for anyone who is interested in 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 brings them fully into the life of the church. I strongly encourage both church leaders and laypeople looking to deepen their understanding of service to read this book.”

—Dr. John Perkins

Cofounder of Christian Community Development Association

Founder and President Emeritus of the John and Vera Mae Perkins Foundation

“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.”

—Dr. Philip G. Ryken, President

Wheaton College

“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.”

—Ronald J. Sider

Senior Distinguished Professor of Theology, Holistic Ministry, and Public Policy

Palmer Theological Seminary