Dr. Luis Ángel DíazDevotionals for pastors and leaders

God's mission

Genesis 12:1–3; John 20:21

God's mission

Mission begins with God

Christian mission does not begin with an organization, a program, or the human desire to expand a church; it begins with God. From Genesis onward, we see God acting to restore a humanity affected by sin.

Abraham's calling reveals that divine election has a missionary purpose: God blesses one person and forms a people so that, through them, his blessing may reach “all the families of the earth” (Gen. 12:3).

“The Lord said to Abram, ‘Leave your land, your relatives, and your father's house, and go to the land I will show you. I will make you a great nation, and I will bless you; I will make your name famous, and you will be a blessing. I will bless those who bless you and curse those who curse you; through you all the families of the earth will be blessed!’”

— Genesis 12:1–3 (translated from the Spanish text cited, NVI)

This reality finds its fullest expression in Jesus Christ. The Father sends the Son to reconcile the world to himself, and Christ subsequently brings his disciples into that mission.

“Peace be with you!” Jesus repeated. “As the Father sent me, so I send you.”

— John 20:21 (translated from the Spanish text cited, NVI)

Consequently, the church does not possess an independent mission; it participates in the mission that belongs to God. Christopher J. H. Wright summarizes this perspective by stating:

“It is not so much that God has a mission for his church in the world, but that God has a church for his mission in the world.”

Likewise, David J. Bosch declares:

“Mission is not primarily an activity of the church, but an attribute of God.”

This understanding transforms the Missions Leadership Team: its fundamental responsibility is to discern where God is at work and mobilize the entire church to participate obediently in his redemptive purpose.

Recommendations

  1. Ground every missionary initiative in Scripture. Before designing activities, projects, or trips, the team must study the Word, seeking to understand God's purpose and guide every missionary decision biblically.

  2. Evaluate programs in light of God's mission. Periodically review each activity, asking whether it truly contributes to evangelism, discipleship, service, sending workers, and extending the witness of Christ among other peoples.

  3. Develop a missionary culture throughout the congregation. Teach continually that missions do not belong only to a committee: every believer participates through prayer, witness, generosity, service, sending others, and willingness to go.

Prayer

Lord, help us understand that mission begins in your heart and belongs to you. Give us discernment to recognize your work, obedience to respond to your calling, and wisdom to mobilize the entire church toward the nations. In Christ, amen.

Bibliographic references

  • Christopher J. H. Wright, The Mission of God: Discovering the Bible's Grand Narrative.
  • David J. Bosch, Transforming Mission: Paradigm Shifts in Theology of Mission.