Matthew 28:19-20: This verse encourages making disciples of all nations, baptizing them, and
teaching them.
Acts 1:8: This verse speaks of receiving power and being witnesses to the ends of the earth.
These verses highlight the importance of spreading the Gospel and making disciples.
Matthew 25:35-40: This passage describes serving Jesus by serving the hungry, thirsty, strangers,
naked, sick, and imprisoned.
James 1:27: This verse defines pure religion as looking after orphans and widows and keeping oneself
unstained by the world.
These scriptures emphasize caring for those in need.
Proverbs 19:21: This verse states that while people have many plans, the Lord’s purpose prevails.
Ephesians 2:10: This verse notes that we are created in Christ Jesus to do good works.
Jeremiah 29:11: This verse declares God’s plans for welfare and hope.
These verses suggest that God has a purpose for each person and organization.
Colossians 3:17: This verse advises doing everything in the name of the Lord Jesus, giving thanks.
1 Corinthians 10:31: This verse encourages doing everything for the glory of God.
These verses encourage living intentionally and reflecting God’s character.
Love God and Neighbor: Deuteronomy 6:5-9 instructs people to “love the Lord your God with all your heart, and with all your soul, and with all your strength”. Jesus summarized the greatest commandments as loving God and loving your neighbor as yourself. A mission-focused organization or individual should be driven by genuine love for God and others, which translates to a deep concern for the well-being of those served:
Servant Leadership: Jesus exemplified servant leadership, as noted in Mark 10:45, stating “For even the Son of Man did not come to be served, but to serve, and to give his life as a ransom for many”. Organizations and individuals should prioritize serving others, demonstrating humility and a willingness to put the needs of those they lead or serve above their own.
Integrity and Honesty: Proverbs 11:1 says “The Lord detests dishonest scales, but accurate weights find favour with him”. Integrity and honesty are fundamental in all dealings. This includes being truthful in actions, communication, and decision-making, which builds trust and a strong reputation.
Stewardship: The Bible emphasizes that everything belongs to God and humans are entrusted with the responsibility to manage resources wisely. This applies to finances, time, talents, and even the environment. Organizations should be accountable for their resources, utilizing them efficiently and ethically for God’s glory and the benefit of others.
Making Disciples: The Great Commission, found in Matthew 28:19-20, commands followers to “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, and teaching them to obey everything that I have commanded you”. This implies a focus not just on conversions, but on nurturing spiritual growth and teaching people to live in obedience to Christ’s teachings.
Excellence and Diligence: Colossians 3:23 encourages working “heartily, as for the Lord and not for
men”. This principle suggests striving for excellence in all tasks, recognizing that work is done as unto
the Lord. This mindset fosters dedication, quality outcomes, and a commitment to doing the best
possible work.
Prayer and Dependence on God: James 1:5 states “If any of you lacks wisdom, let him ask God, who gives generously to all without reproach, and it will be given him”. Seeking God’s guidance through prayer and relying on the Holy Spirit is crucial for wisdom, direction, and strength in mission focused endeavors.
Teamwork and Collaboration: Ecclesiastes 4:12 says “though one may be overpowered, two can defend themselves. A cord of three strands is not quickly broken”. Recognizing the power of collaboration and building strong teams enhances effectiveness and enables greater impact.
Patience and Perseverance: Hebrews 12:1-2 encourages running “with perseverance the race marked out for us, fixing our eyes on Jesus”. Building resilience and remaining steadfast, even in the face of challenges and setbacks, is vital for long-term mission effectiveness.
Focusing on the Kingdom of God: Matthew 6:33 advises, “But seek first his kingdom and his righteousness, and all these things will be given to you as well”. A mission-focused organization or individual should align its vision, goals, and actions with God’s overarching purpose and values. Bible Purposes That Can Guide A Mission-Focused Organization Or Individual
Several purposes, based on biblical teachings, can guide a mission-focused organization or individual:
Glorifying God among all peoples: Christian missions aim to bring glory to God by making His name known and worshipped by people from every nation, tribe, and language. Making disciples of all nations: This includes reaching all people groups, baptizing them, and teaching them to follow Jesus’ commands. This is about forming mature followers of Christ within their own cultural contexts.
Loving the lost and demonstrating God’s compassion: Mission work is driven by God’s love for the world, desiring that none should perish. This involves expressing compassion through acts of service and mercy towards the poor, needy, oppressed, widows, orphans, and sojourners, according to Ligonier Ministries
Proclaiming the gospel: The core of mission involves verbally sharing the good news of salvation through Jesus Christ. This requires engaging in evangelism and sharing the transformative power of the gospel with others.
Church planting and strengthening: Establishing and nurturing local churches is vital for mission work. It provides a place for new believers to grow in faith and be equipped for ministry. Building relationships and community: Mission extends beyond sharing the message and involves fostering authentic community and loving fellowship among believers.
Stewardship of resources: The Bible teaches that all resources belong to God, and people are called to be faithful and generous stewards, using them for God’s purposes.
Living justly and mercifully: Reflecting God’s character means actively pursuing justice for the oppressed and demonstrating mercy to those in need, notes the Central Valley Justice Coalition. These purposes, rooted in the teachings and example of Jesus, offer a strong foundation and framework for any individual or organization focused on Christian mission work