Therefore, go and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit, and teaching them to obey all that I have commanded you. And surely, I am with you always, even to the end of the age
– Matt 28:19-20
The idea of missions is often associated with people traveling to distant ‘Savage’ lands to share the gospel. While global missions are vital, the truth is that every Christian, regardless of location, is called to participate in God’s great commission. This calling is not reserved for pastors, evangelists, or missionaries alone, but extends to every believer in Christ; and here’s why:
1. The Great Commission is for Everyone
In Matthew 28:19-20, Jesus commands, the disciples the go and share the gospel; this instruction was not just for the disciples of that time but for all believers. Missions is not an optional activity—it is a core part of being a follower of Christ.
As believers we are obligated to share the gospel with those who have not heard it.
Yet when I preach the gospel, I have no reason to boast, because I am obligated to preach. Woe to me if I do not preach the gospel! If my preaching is voluntary, I have a reward. But if it is not voluntary, I am still entrusted with a responsibility.
– 1 Cor 9:16-17
2. We Are Christ’s Ambassadors
Paul writes in 2 Corinthians 5:20, “We are therefore Christ’s ambassadors, as though God were making his appeal through us.” An ambassador is a diplomatic official called to represent their homeland in a foreign place or to deliver an important message. Since our citizenship is in heaven, and we eagerly await our Savior from there, the Lord Jesus Christ; as Christians, we are representatives of Christ while we are on earth, called to reflect His love, truth, and salvation to those around us—whether in our neighborhoods, workplaces, or even across the country and to the world.
3. Missions is a Lifestyle, Not Just an Event
Missions is not about a one-time trip or a church-organized outreach—it is a daily commitment to live out the gospel. Sharing the love of Christ can happen in everyday conversations, acts of kindness, and generally being a light in our communities.
We are called to be missionaries wherever God has placed us. Our hearts of stone were turned into hearts of flesh and we are now a living letter from Christ written not with ink but with the Spirit of the Living God and those around us can read this letter through our actions and the fruits we bear.
4. The World is Our Mission Field
While some are called to travel and relocate for the sake of the gospel, we need to remember that the mission field is everywhere. The workplace, the grocery store, social media, and our own families present opportunities to share the gospel. Jesus said in Acts 1:8, “You will be my witnesses in Jerusalem, and in all Judea and Samaria, and to the ends of the earth.” Our “Jerusalem” is our immediate community, and from there, God willing, our influence can spread outward.
5. Love Compels Us to Share the Gospel
If we truly love others, we will want them to experience the salvation and peace that comes from knowing Jesus. Romans 10:14 asks, “How can they believe in the one of whom they have not heard?” and indeed truly, how can they believe in one they have never heard of? This message of Salvation is too important to keep to ourselves.
6. God Equips Those He Calls
Many Christians hesitate to engage in missions because they feel inadequate or unprepared. I too have struggled with feelings of inadequacy and fear; but in the book of Exodus, we see a flawed man by the name of Moses called and equipped for the great work of leading the Israelites to the promised land. We see that God does not call the equipped—He equips the called. The Holy Spirit empowers believers with boldness, wisdom, and the words to speak (Acts 1:8, Luke 12:12). When we step out in faith, heeding God’s call, He provides what we need.
How to Live Missionally
- Pray for Open Doors: Ask God to bring people into your life who need the gospel.
- Be Intentional: Look for everyday opportunities to share your faith.
- Support Mission Work: If you cannot go, you can give (financially or in kind) to support those called to serve, pray, and encourage them.
- Live Differently: Let your actions reflect the transformation Christ has made in your life. Your fruit will point the lost to the salvation granted by Christ.
Conclusion
Missions is not just for a select few—it is the responsibility and privilege of every Christian. Whether through sharing the gospel with a friend, serving the community, or supporting global missions, every believer has a role to play. The world needs the hope of Christ, and God has chosen His people to be the messengers. Will you answer the call?
Then I heard the voice of the Lord saying: “Whom shall I send? Who will go for Us?” And I said: “Here am I. Send me!”