The Biblical Mandate to Support Global Missions: A Call to Action
Abstract
The Great Commission, as articulated in Matthew 28:19-20, serves as a foundational mandate for Christians to engage in global missions. This article explores the biblical basis for supporting missions, emphasizing scriptural references and theological principles that underscore the importance of spreading the Gospel to all nations. By examining the call to missions through a biblical lens, this article aims to persuade believers of their responsibility to actively participate in and support global missions.
Introduction
The call to global missions is not merely a suggestion; it is a divine mandate rooted in Scripture. As followers of Christ, we are entrusted with the mission of sharing the Gospel with the world. This article seeks to elucidate the biblical basis for supporting global missions, highlighting key scriptures and theological insights that compel believers to take action.
The Great Commission: A Command from Christ
The Great Commission, found in Matthew 28:19-20, is perhaps the most explicit directive regarding missions. Jesus commands His disciples, “Go therefore and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit, teaching them to observe all that I have commanded you.” This command is not limited to the apostles; it extends to all believers throughout history. The imperative “make disciples” emphasizes the active role Christians must play in evangelism and discipleship.
The Biblical Foundation for Missions
The Old Testament also lays a foundation for missions. In Genesis 12:1-3, God promises Abraham that “in you all the families of the earth shall be blessed.” This promise foreshadows the inclusion of all nations in God’s redemptive plan. Furthermore, Psalm 96:3 calls us to “declare his glory among the nations, his marvelous works among all the peoples.” These verses illustrate that God’s desire for His glory to be known extends beyond Israel to all humanity.
The Role of the Church in Missions
The New Testament reinforces the church’s role in missions. Acts 1:8 records Jesus’ instruction to His disciples: “But you will receive power when the Holy Spirit has come upon you, and you will be my witnesses in Jerusalem and in all Judea and Samaria, and to the end of the earth.” This verse highlights the church’s responsibility to witness locally and globally. The early church exemplified this commitment, as seen in Acts 13:2-3, where the Holy Spirit sets apart Paul and Barnabas for missionary work, demonstrating the church’s active involvement in sending missionaries.
Supporting Missions: A Biblical Responsibility
Supporting global missions is not solely the responsibility of missionaries; it is a collective duty of the church. Philippians 4:15-16 illustrates this principle, as Paul commends the Philippians for their financial support of his ministry. He writes, “And you Philippians yourselves know that in the beginning of the gospel, when I left Macedonia, no church entered into partnership with me in giving and receiving, except you only.” This partnership in the Gospel underscores the importance of financial and prayer support for those who are called to go.
Theological Implications of Missions
Theologically, the mandate for missions is rooted in the nature of God. As a God of love and grace, He desires that none should perish (2 Peter 3:9). The urgency of this mission is further emphasized in Romans 10:14-15, where Paul asks, “How then will they call on him in whom they have not believed? And how are they to believe in him of whom they have never heard? And how are they to hear without someone preaching?” This rhetorical questioning highlights the necessity of sending and supporting missionaries to ensure that the Gospel reaches every corner of the earth.
Conclusion
The biblical mandate to support global missions is clear and compelling. As believers, we are called to actively participate in the Great Commission, both through our personal witness and by supporting those who are sent to share the Gospel. By embracing our responsibility to support missions, we align ourselves with God’s redemptive plan for humanity. Let us commit to being faithful stewards of the Gospel, ensuring that the message of Christ reaches every nation, tribe, and tongue.
References
- The Holy Bible, English Standard Version.
- Stott, John. The Cross of Christ. InterVarsity Press, 1986.
- Wright, Christopher J. H. The Mission of God: Unlocking the Bible's Grand Narrative. IVP Academic, 2006.
- Piper, John. Let the Nations Be Glad: The Supremacy of God in Missions. Baker Books, 2010.
