Lesson 2 - Why Mission?
Video Lesson
The essence of the mission echoes Ma/hew's Gospel 28 verses 18 through 20. This Great
Commission passage illustrates Jesus' direcAve to go and to make disciples of all naAons,
bapAzing them in the name of the Father, the Son, and the Holy Spirit. The core of biblical
missions is about reaching people with the gospel of Jesus Christ. This might involve some
social acAviAes like caring for physical needs of people, but at the core, it's about advancing
the gospel of Jesus Christ for the glory of God among all people groups.
Discipleship, on the other hand, is a process of reaching people with the gospel, then training,
equipping, and nurturing them in their faith. The ulAmate goal is to enable them to go and
disciple others. The word "disciple" simply means a learner - someone who is learning from
Jesus Christ, growing in their faith, and aiming to help others to do the same.
Biblical missions involve carrying out the task God has assigned to us. This mission, as laid out
in the book of Ma/hew, is to go into all the world to make disciples of all naAons. The real
quesAon is whether we value this mission enough to carry it out to its compleAon, knowing
that God promises great rewards.
Missions are not passive; they are acAve, proacAve iniAaAves that aim to take the gospel to
the world and win as many people as possible for Jesus Christ. It's about iniAaAng, being
aggressive, and striving to impact the world with the gospel.
The Great Commission, as stated by Christ, is to go into all the world and make disciples. This
includes not just global missions, but also local and area missions. The opportuniAes to fulfil
this commission have never been greater, and it's crucial that the church regains its passion
for this task, despite recent shiSs within evangelicalism.
The responsibility of fulfilling this commission lies primarily with local churches. While mission
agencies and parachurch ministries can play a role, the charge was given to local churches. If
they're not acAvely pursuing it, the task will be leS undone.
The mission is not just about saving people from the wrath of God, but also causing people to
recognize their need for God, to seek salvaAon from Him, and to glorify Him with their lives.
a. Class Notes
Introduction
Christian mission is a fundamental aspect of the Christian faith, rooted in the teachings
of Jesus Christ and the biblical mandate known as the Great Commission. It
encompasses a range of activities and initiatives aimed at spreading the message of
Christianity, bringing individuals into a relationship with God, and positively impacting
society. This academic exploration seeks to delve into the significance of the Christian
mission, examining its theological, social, and cultural dimensions. Following are a few
considerations of why mission study is important for our Theological Education:
1. Great Commission
The Christian mission finds its foundational basis in the Great Commission, which was
imparted by Jesus Christ to His disciples as recorded in the Gospel of Matthew,
specifically Matthew 28:19-20. This crucial mandate from Jesus instructs believers to
embark on a transformative journey, engaging in the task of making disciples from all
nations, with the act of baptism symbolizing their initiation into the divine trinity of the
Father, Son, and Holy Spirit. The Great Commission serves as an emphatic reminder of
the immense significance of spreading the message of Christianity and facilitating
individuals' entrance into a profound and transformative relationship with God.
The Great Commission holds theological and practical implications for the Christian
faith. It signifies a divine imperative that shapes the mission of the Church,
emphasizing the responsibility of believers to actively participate in the propagation
of the Gospel. This commandment underscores the universal nature of the Christian
mission, transcending cultural, geographical, and societal boundaries. It emphasizes
the call to engage with diverse communities and nations, with the purpose of bringing
individuals into a saving knowledge of Jesus Christ and fostering their spiritual growth.
The act of baptism, as specified in the Great Commission, holds symbolic significance
within the Christian tradition. It represents a public declaration of faith, as well as a
spiritual initiation into the redemptive work of the triune God. By incorporating
individuals into the name of the Father, Son, and Holy Spirit, baptism represents an
essential step in the process of disciple-making, signifying their incorporation into the
Christian community and their commitment to follow Christ.
The Great Commission serves as a rallying cry for believers, highlighting the
transformative power of the Gospel and the profound impact it can have on individuals
and societies. It underscores the importance of evangelism, as well as the nurturing
and maturing of new believers, through teaching and discipleship. This academic
exploration acknowledges the theological depth and missional significance of the
Great Commission, inspiring believers to actively engage in the task of spreading the
message of Christianity and facilitating spiritual transformation in the lives of others.
It is worth noting that while the importance of the Great Commission is widely
recognized and accepted within the Christian tradition, specific interpretations and
applications may vary among different theological perspectives and denominations.
2. Salvation and Eternal Life
Christian mission is fundamentally driven by the belief that salvation and eternal life
are exclusively attained through faith in Jesus Christ. Within the framework of Christian
theology, salvation is understood as the deliverance from sin and its consequences,
and the restoration of a right relationship with God. This conviction forms the core
motivation behind the mission of Christians, as they hold that sharing the Gospel and
leading others to accept Christ is indispensable for their spiritual well-being and
ultimate destiny.
The concept of salvation plays a pivotal role in Christian soteriology, the study of
salvation. It encompasses the understanding that human beings are inherently flawed
and separated from God due to sin. Christians believe that God, in His love and mercy,
provided a means of reconciliation through the sacrificial death and resurrection of
Jesus Christ. By placing faith in Christ and accepting Him as Lord and Savior, individuals
are deemed eligible to receive salvation and the promise of eternal life.
The act of sharing the Gospel, also known as evangelism, is seen as an expression of
love, compassion, and obedience to God's commandments. Christians believe that the
message of salvation through Jesus Christ is transformative and offers hope,
redemption, and eternal life to those who embrace it. Consequently, they view it as
their responsibility and privilege to bring this message to those who have not yet heard
it, recognizing the significance of sharing the good news as an act of love toward their
fellow human beings.
Within the Christian tradition, evangelism is often regarded as an extension of God's
redemptive work in the world. It is considered a response to the divine love and grace
that believers have experienced in their own lives. Moreover, sharing the Gospel is
believed to contribute to the expansion of God's Kingdom, as more individuals come
to faith in Christ and partake in the blessings of salvation.
The belief in the necessity of sharing the Gospel reflects the missiological dimensions
of Christian faith. It underscores the conviction that salvation is a gift to be shared with
others and not merely an individualistic experience. Christian mission, driven by the
desire to see others encounter God's saving grace, encompasses various forms of
evangelistic activities, including proclamation, witnessing, discipleship, and acts of
service that demonstrate the love and compassion of Christ.
It is important to note that perspectives on the nature and scope of salvation may vary
within different Christian traditions and theological perspectives. Nevertheless, the
belief in the central role of faith in Jesus Christ for salvation and the imperative to share
this message as an act of love and compassion remain integral to the ethos of the
Christian mission.
3. Love and Compassion
Christian mission places significant emphasis on the call to love and serve others,
drawing inspiration from the example set by Jesus Christ. The mission involves actively
reaching out to individuals in need, addressing both their physical and spiritual well-
being, and embodying God's love through acts of kindness, mercy, and compassion.
At the heart of Christian mission lies the recognition that Jesus Christ, through His
teachings and actions, exemplified a life of selfless service and sacrificial love.
Christians understand Jesus to be the ultimate model of compassion and empathy,
and they strive to emulate His character in their own lives. This imitation of Christ's
love forms the basis for Christian mission's commitment to loving and serving others.
Mission work encompasses a broad range of activities aimed at meeting the needs of
individuals and communities. It involves not only attending to their spiritual condition
but also addressing tangible aspects of their lives. This holistic approach recognizes
that human beings have physical, emotional, and social dimensions that must be
considered in the pursuit of meaningful transformation.
Practically, mission work often includes providing humanitarian aid, such as food,
shelter, and clothing, to those who are impoverished or experiencing hardship. It
extends to offering healthcare services, education, and skills training, recognizing that
these resources contribute to the overall well-being and empowerment of individuals
and communities.
Furthermore, Christian mission acknowledges the existence of social injustices and
seeks to confront and alleviate them. This can involve advocating for the marginalized,
fighting against systemic oppression, and working towards societal transformation. It
acknowledges that God's love extends to all people, and Christians are called to
actively promote justice, equality, and dignity for every human being.
The focus on love and service in Christian mission aligns with broader discussions in
the fields of ethics, social justice, and practical theology. It involves examining the
theological foundations for social engagement and the ethical implications of loving
one's neighbour. Scholars explore the interplay between faith and social action,
seeking to understand how Christian missions can effectively address societal needs
and contribute to the common good.
Various theological frameworks and ethical perspectives inform the understanding and
implementation of Christian mission's emphasis on love and service. These include
concepts such as the imago Dei (the belief in the inherent worth and dignity of every
human being), the biblical mandate for justice and compassion, and the theological
understanding of the kingdom of God as a present reality to be actively realized
through acts of service and love.
Therefore, Christian mission is characterized by its commitment to following the
example of Jesus Christ in loving and serving others. It encompasses a wide array of
activities that address both physical and spiritual needs, aiming to demonstrate God's
love through acts of kindness, mercy, and compassion. This holistic approach seeks to
bring about transformative change in individuals, communities, and society at large,
reflecting the profound impact of Christian mission beyond purely religious
dimensions.
4. Transforming Lives and Communities
Christian mission is driven by the aspiration to bring about transformative change in
both individual lives and communities through the power of the Gospel. It seeks to
facilitate personal transformation by leading individuals to faith in Christ, the
experience of forgiveness of sins, and the adoption of a new way of living.
At the heart of Christian mission lies the belief that the Gospel, understood as the
message of salvation through Jesus Christ, has the capacity to bring about profound
and lasting transformation in the lives of individuals. It is considered a transformative
power that can renew hearts, reconcile broken relationships, and provide a sense of
purpose and hope. Christian mission endeavours to communicate and share this
transformative message with others, inviting them to embrace a faith in Christ that
offers spiritual renewal and a new trajectory in life.
This personal transformation involves a process of repentance, where individuals
recognize and turn away from their sinful behaviours, and embrace the forgiveness
and grace offered through Jesus Christ. It entails a reorientation of one's values,
priorities, and worldview, aligning them with the teachings and example of Christ.
Christian mission seeks to guide individuals towards a life characterized by love,
compassion, integrity, and a commitment to follow Christ's teachings.
In addition to personal transformation, Christian mission also aims to impact society
at large. It recognizes that the transformative power of the Gospel has broader
implications for social structures, systems, and values. Christian mission endeavours to
promote values such as justice, peace, equality, and the dignity of every human being
within society. This includes addressing social injustices, advocating for the rights and
well-being of marginalized and vulnerable populations, and working towards the
establishment of a more just and compassionate society.
The transformative dimensions of Christian mission are explored through various
disciplines, including theology, missiology, and social ethics. Scholars examine the
theological foundations for personal and societal transformation within Christian
thought and explore the ethical implications of promoting values such as justice and
equality. They also engage in critical reflections on the ways in which Christian mission
can effectively engage with and impact diverse cultural, social, and political contexts.
Moreover, academic discussions surrounding Christian mission often involve
considerations of contextualization, cultural sensitivity, and the complex dynamics of
social change. It recognizes the need to engage with local cultures, traditions, and
contexts in order to effectively communicate the transformative message of the Gospel
and address the specific needs and challenges of different communities.
5. Cultural and Social Engagement
Christian mission encompasses the intentional engagement with diverse cultures and
societies, acknowledging their distinctiveness and recognizing the need for
contextualization in order to effectively communicate the message of the Gospel. This
involves a range of practices, such as learning local languages, understanding customs
and traditions, and addressing social issues that are relevant to the specific community
being engaged.
Christian mission embraces the understanding that cultures and societies exhibit a rich
diversity of beliefs, practices, and values. It recognizes that the message of the Gospel
can be most effectively conveyed when it is contextualized within the cultural
framework of the target audience. This requires a deep appreciation and respect for
the uniqueness of each culture, including its language, customs, traditions, and
worldview.
An important aspect of contextualization is the acquisition of local languages. By
learning the languages spoken within the community, missionaries and practitioners
of Christian mission can communicate more effectively and engage in meaningful
dialogue with the local population. This linguistic sensitivity enables a deeper
understanding of the cultural nuances and facilitates a more authentic and respectful
engagement with the community.
Understanding the customs and traditions of a specific culture is also crucial for
effective Christian mission. It involves studying the local customs, rituals, social
structures, and religious practices in order to build bridges of understanding and
establish connections with the community. This cultural understanding helps avoid
misunderstandings and enables missionaries to relate to the people they are serving
in a more meaningful way.
Moreover, Christian mission recognizes that social issues are integral to the human
experience within any given culture or society. It acknowledges the importance of
addressing these issues as part of the mission's holistic engagement. This could include
tackling poverty, advocating for social justice, addressing healthcare disparities,
promoting gender equality, and working towards the empowerment of marginalized
groups. By addressing these social concerns, Christian mission seeks to demonstrate
God's love and compassion in practical ways that resonate with the needs and
aspirations of the community.
The topic of cultural engagement and contextualization in Christian mission is explored
through disciplines such as missiology, intercultural studies, and anthropology of
religion. Scholars examine the theoretical frameworks and methodologies for effective
cross-cultural engagement, addressing questions of cultural sensitivity, cultural
translation, and the balance between preserving core theological principles and
adapting to local contexts.
In addition, contextualization also involves critical reflection on the ethical dimensions
of cultural engagement in Christian mission. It raises questions about power dynamics,
the potential for cultural imperialism, and the importance of collaboration and mutual
respect in cross-cultural encounters.
6. Building and Strengthening the Church
In Christian mission, a central objective is to establish and strengthen Christian
communities, commonly known as the Church. Mission work encompasses various
activities such as planting new churches, nurturing existing congregations, and
equipping believers to grow in their faith and engage in their own mission endeavours.
It emphasizes discipleship, leadership training, and the cultivation of unity and
community among believers.
Planting churches is a vital aspect of Christian mission. It involves the intentional
establishment of new Christian communities in areas where the Gospel has not been
widely proclaimed or where there is a need for a local expression of the Church.
Missionaries and practitioners of Christian mission engage in evangelism and outreach
efforts to gather individuals who respond to the message of the Gospel and form new
congregations. This process includes organizing worship services, providing pastoral
care, and facilitating the development of community life within the newly planted
church.
Nurturing existing congregations is another significant focus of Christian mission. It
involves supporting and strengthening established Christian communities by
providing pastoral guidance, teaching, and resources. Missionaries and church leaders
engage in activities aimed at fostering spiritual growth, such as preaching, teaching,
and mentoring believers. This nurturing process also includes addressing the unique
challenges and needs of the local congregation, fostering a sense of belonging and
participation, and promoting the holistic development of individuals within the
community.
Equipping believers to grow in their faith and carry out their own mission is an essential
aspect of Christian mission. It involves providing training, education, and resources
that enable believers to deepen their understanding of the Christian faith, develop
their spiritual gifts, and actively engage in sharing the Gospel with others. Discipleship
plays a crucial role in this process, as believers are encouraged to follow the teachings
and example of Jesus Christ, continually growing in their relationship with God, and
becoming faithful witnesses and ambassadors of the Gospel.
Leadership training is also a key component of Christian mission. It involves identifying,
equipping, and empowering individuals within the Christian community to serve as
leaders, pastors, and mentors. Leadership development programs, theological
education, and mentoring relationships are often utilized to prepare individuals for
various leadership roles within the Church. The aim is to cultivate capable and servant-
hearted leaders who can effectively guide and shepherd the community, and also
multiply the impact of Christian mission through their own leadership and discipleship
efforts.
In addition to discipleship and leadership training, Christian mission places a strong
emphasis on fostering a sense of unity and community among believers. It recognizes
the importance of building relationships, promoting mutual support, and encouraging
collaboration among members of the Christian community. This sense of unity and
community is nurtured through various means such as corporate worship, fellowship
activities, small groups, and service projects that promote the well-being and growth
of the entire community.
The establishment and strengthening of Christian communities in Christian mission are
explored through disciplines such as ecclesiology, missiology, and practical theology.
Scholars examine the theological foundations of the Church, the principles and
practices of church planting and growth, the dynamics of discipleship and leadership
development, and the importance of community life within the context of Christian
mission.
7. Global Perspective and Collaboration
Christian mission is indeed a global endeavour that surpasses geographical and
cultural boundaries. It recognizes the interconnectedness of the global Church and the
shared responsibility to fulfil the Great Commission. Mission organizations and
churches collaborate in order to support and encourage one another, sharing
resources, expertise, and experiences to advance the cause of missions worldwide.
The global nature of Christian mission is rooted in the understanding that the message
of the Gospel is meant for all nations and peoples. It goes beyond any specific culture,
language, or geographical location. The Great Commission, as given by Jesus Christ to
His disciples, emphasizes the universal scope of the mission, calling believers to go
and make disciples of all nations (Matthew 28:19).
In response to this call, mission organizations and churches work together in
partnership to effectively carry out the mission. They recognize that no single entity or
organization can accomplish the task alone, and collaboration is essential. This
collaboration takes various forms, such as joint mission projects, sharing of personnel,
financial support, and prayer partnerships.
One aspect of collaboration in Christian mission is the sharing of resources. Mission
organizations and churches pool their financial, human, and material resources to
support mission initiatives around the world. This can include funding for missionary
work, providing logistical support for mission trips, and sharing expertise in areas such
as cross-cultural communication, theological training, and community development.
By sharing resources, the global Church maximizes its impact and avoids duplication
of efforts.
Expertise is another vital aspect of collaboration in Christian mission. Different
organizations and churches bring unique skills, knowledge, and experiences to the
table. They may specialize in particular areas of mission work, such as evangelism,
education, healthcare, or social justice. By sharing their expertise, organizations and
churches can learn from one another, improve their strategies and practices, and
collectively address the multifaceted challenges of global missions.
Collaboration in Christian mission also involves sharing experiences and best practices.
Mission organizations and churches learn from each other's successes and failures,
drawing on the wisdom gained from past mission endeavours. This collective learning
enables the global Church to adapt its approaches, refine its strategies, and navigate
the complexities of engaging diverse cultures and contexts.
The interconnectedness of the global Church in mission is facilitated by various
networks and platforms that promote communication, coordination, and
collaboration. These can range from regional and international mission conferences
and gatherings to online platforms and forums that facilitate information sharing and
relationship building. Through these networks, organizations and churches can
connect, share updates, pray for one another, and explore opportunities for joint
initiatives.
The collaboration and interconnectedness of the global Church in Christian mission
are examined through fields such as missiology, ecumenical studies, and global
Christianity. Scholars explore the theological foundations of partnership in mission, the
dynamics of collaboration, and the implications of interconnectedness for mission
strategy and practice.
Conclusion
Christian mission is an essential and multifaceted aspect of the Christian faith. Rooted
in the Great Commission and driven by the desire to share the message of salvation,
Christian mission encompasses love, compassion, transformation, cultural
engagement, church building, and global collaboration. By engaging in mission work,
Christians seek to bring individuals into a relationship with God, impact communities,
and fulfil their responsibility to spread the Gospel worldwide.
QUIZ:
1.Mission is about reaching people with the gospel of Jesus Christ.
True
False
2.The word disciple means a _____________.
Learner
Called out ones
Follower
Seeker
3.Missions is inactive and always passive.
False
True
4.According to the Great Commission, what is the mandate given by Jesus to His disciples?
To perform miracles and heal the sick
To make disciples of all nations
To establish political authority
To establish Christian communities
5.According to ChrisAan theology, salvaAon is achieved through faith in Jesus Christ and is
not necessary for a restored relaAonship with God.
False
True
6.ChrisAans strive to emulate the character of Jesus Christ in their lives because He
exemplified:
Ignorance and indifference
Selfless service and sacrificial love
Selfishness and pride
Exclusivity and judgment
7.Which discipline explores the theological foundaAons and ethical implicaAons of ChrisAan
mission's transformaAve dimensions?
Social Ethics
Theology
Missiology
All
8.Learning the local languages spoken within a community is not necessary for effecAve
communicaAon and engagement in ChrisAan mission.
False
True
9.What is the purpose of planAng churches in ChrisAan mission?
To provide addiAonal resources and support to exisAng churches
To gather individuals who respond to the message of the Gospel and form new
congregaAons
To discourage the development of community life within the newly planted church
To establish new ChrisAan communiAes in areas where the Gospel is already widely
proclaimed
10.What is one purpose of sharing resources in Christian mission?
To maximize the impact of mission initiatives and avoid duplication of efforts
To centralize control and authority within mission organizations
To limit the influence of local churches in global mission activities
To ensure that mission initiatives are focused on a single geographical location
