The Heartbeat of Christian Missions: Prioritizing Eternal Impact
As followers of Jesus Christ, we are part of a unique gospel community commissioned to fulfill a sacred mission. Our churches have a singular responsibility to guard, proclaim, and disciple others in the gospel, ensuring its advancement on God’s terms. Any effort to alter or broaden this mission risks robbing God of His rightful glory.
God’s passion is to receive glory through His mission, and He has provided clear instructions on how to approach it with faithfulness and confidence. The local church plays a vital role in equipping missionaries, transmitting sound doctrine, and encouraging general fruitfulness. By prioritizing the stewardship of the gospel, we keep first things first.
The commission to missions is not only individual but also primarily entrusted to local churches. Through baptism, membership, and discipleship, the local church makes clear who is and who is not a disciple. Healthy, reproducing churches are the aim and end of our missionary effort.
To fulfill this mission, we must prioritize holy lives, faithful prayer, gospel proclamation, and healthy reproducing churches. The local church should actively equip missionaries, support them appropriately, and maintain regular communication to care for their needs. By doing so, we demonstrate our love and honor for God, who has given us a clear vision for advancing His global mission.
In this endeavor, it’s essential to cultivate long-term overseas workers from our own congregation, aiming to eventually staff entire missionary teams from our church or in partnership with like-minded churches. By focusing on long-term partnerships and supporting existing teams, we can make a lasting impact for the glory of God.
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