A. What Is Biblical Mission? “Biblical mission means more than simply going overseas to plant churches or spread civilization. It means the church participating in the ‘mission of God (Missio Dei)’ and seeking the restoration of God’s rule and glory throughout the whole earth. Mission is not a program that begins with human enthusiasm; rather, it is the heart of God that runs throughout the Bible, from Genesis to Revelation, and is a fundamental reason for the church’s existence. Let me clearly summarize five essential principles of true mission as presented in Scripture. 🌍 1. The Mission of God (Missio Dei) The subject and initiator of mission is not human beings but God. In order to save fallen humanity, God first comes to us, sends His Son, and sends the Holy Spirit. He is the “missionary God” who sends. Biblical basis: “As the Father has sent me, I also send you.” (John 20:21) Key meaning: The church acknowledges that God has the initiative in mission and serves as His agent, obed...
God’s chosen instrument [Acts 9:10-19a] Do you know about the Great Awakening, a spiritual revival movement that greatly influenced 18th-century American society? It is also known as the First Great Awakening. This movement provided light and hope in a tumultuous era. Prominent universities, including Princeton, were established under the influence of this movement. At the forefront of this movement stood Jonathan Edwards, a pastor and theologian born as the son of a congregational minister. How was he able to shoulder the responsibilities of his time? He renewed himself daily by confessing five resolutions. Throughout his life, he exerted all his strength in living each moment to its fullest potential. He never missed an opportunity, no matter how small, to adopt the most beneficial course of action. He would never take something, no matter how profitable, if it would make him...