1. MERF UPHOLDS THE BIBLE AND THE REFORMED CONFESSIONS.
The evangelical Churches in the Middle East were largely established by Reformed missionaries. In recent days, however, they have been influenced by unbiblical trends, superficiality, and dead spirituality. Reformed Christians in the Middle East have lacked active fellowship and cooperation with like-minded Christians elsewhere. They need encouragement from Reformed churches and believers worldwide. MERF aims to declare the whole counsel of God through all its activities.
2. MERF FOCUSES ON BUILDING UP LOCAL CHURCHES.
The indigenous church is the best body to reach out to the local population. Members know the language and culture and are accepted as part of the community. They are not regarded as foreigners, nor do they have to return home to another country on furlough. As a Christian minority, however, they need to be strengthened in faith and built up in confidence to reach out. They also need to be equipped to disciple new believers.
3. MERF USES RADIO AND INTERNET AS A KEY EVANGELISTIC TOOL.
MERF uses radio and internet in Arabic and 12 other languages to reach out to millions in Muslim lands. A variety of programs are used discussing issues of importance and sharing Christ's teachings. Viewers and listeners are invited to respond. The challenge of the Gospel is presented as each contact is developed over time through private SMS or online interactions.
4. MERF PROVIDES AID IN TIME OF NEED.
Aid is provided through National MERF Committees working through the local church. MERF aims to "do good to all, particularly to those who are of the household of faith." The strategy is to equip people to be self-sufficient rather than to meet immediate needs only.
5. MERF IS WORKING IN MANY COUNTRIES.
MERF is active in evangelism, church extension, biblical training and diaconal aid in Arabic-speaking countries and East Africa and Asia. MERF aims to strengthen the church and reach out to the local community.
6. MERF BELIEVES IN BIBLICAL TRAINING.
The Gospel's main purpose is to reconcile sinful man to the sovereign God, but the good news of the Lord Jesus Christ has implications for all areas of life. It is "the power of God to everyone who believes." The Gospel is not relativised by human culture, but rather transcends it and redeems it. MERF uses the key strategy of equipping the Church through biblical training. The Bible is central to the growth of the Christian.
7. THE WORK OF MERF IS BEARING FRUIT.
Because of the involvement of MERF and the Reformed family of Churches worldwide, the Church throughout the Middle East is being encouraged and strengthened. Non-Christians are responding to the challenge of the Gospel of Christ. They are being discipled by national Christians. Those in need are being helped spiritually and materially.