Missions -Part 2

Memory Verse:  “…sanctify Lord God in your hearts: … ready always to give an answer to every man that asketh you a reason of the hope that is in you.” 1 Peter 3:15
 
Bible Passage: 2 Corinthians 5:12-20.
 
Introduction
Apostle Paul pointedly said each member in the body of Christ has a clearly defined well spelt out role in Missions. The answer to the jigsaw puzzle of God’s plan and road map into new nations and peoples will not emerge, until the last piece is in place. A proper deployment of God’s people, gifts and callings will lead to the big picture. God is never random. A fire brigade attitude or trial and error approach will only lead to frustration and a waste of time and resources. No one in The body of Christ is exempted, Eph.4: 12. Maybe you are one of the missing pieces, 1 Cor.12: 13.

The Early Church
The early Church was fully engaged in missions. Paul the Apostle remains the ultimate model second only to the Lord Jesus. He walked in the self-assurance of the righteous, 1 Cor.4: 16. Priscilla and Aquila were Christians, who started churches wherever they went, Acts 18:26-28. Paul’s team composed of missionaries, 2 Cor.8: 23. The word of God went from the Thessalonians church to Macedonia and Achaia, 1 Thess.1: 8. All Asia heard God’s word while Paul was teaching in Ephesus, Acts 19:26; Col.1: 4-7. Epaphas heard the gospel in Ephesus and from there took it to other towns. The Philippians supported Paul’s missionary work, Phil.4: 14-18. The Ephesians were asked to support with prayers, Eph.6: 18-20. Missionary work extended to Rome and other places.

Conclusion
God reconciled the whole world to Himself through Jesus Christ. He consequently made us His ambassadors and commissioned us to continue the work of reconciliation and salvation, 2 Cor.5: 18-20. The key skills and gifts of discernment, insight and wisdom are made readily available to the commissioned and committed. Follow the footsteps of the captain of our salvation and watch your path get brighter and clearer, until the perfect day of the Lord. That will be your path in the mighty name of Jesus.