Until All Have Heard...

Wondering if God is calling you to missions? Learn how to discern His call, take practical steps, and find resources to start your journey today!

Local churches today are constantly being pulled in a million different directions. With so many programs, needs, and decisions to make, it can be easy for churches to become inward-focused. But the essence of the church, both historically and Biblically, is outward-facing. A missions-minded church doesn’t just serve its own members but actively engages with the world around it, fulfilling the command of Christ to make disciples of all nations (Matthew 28:19-20). Being missions-minded is about more than just sending money overseas or planning annual mission trips. It is a holistic approach to church life that permeates every aspect of a congregation's DNA, from its worship services to its youth programs, community outreach, and partnerships with global mission efforts. Here are some key reasons why being missions-minded in the local church is essential: 1. Reflecting the Heart of God  God’s heart for the nations is clearly seen throughout Scripture. From the promise made to Abraham in Genesis 12 to the Great Commission in Matthew 28, God has always been focused on redeeming people from every tribe, tongue, and nation. The church is called to participate in God’s redemptive plan, and being missions-minded aligns the church with God’s heart. In Acts 1:8, Jesus told His disciples that they would be His witnesses “in Jerusalem, and in all Judea and Samaria, and to the ends of the earth.” This reflects both a local and global mission. A church that is focused on missions honors God’s global purposes by seeking to reach both its local community and the broader world with the Gospel. 2. Obeying the Great Commission The Great Commission is not just a suggestion; it is a command. Jesus did not say, “If you feel like it, go and make disciples of all nations.” He said, “Go and make disciples of all nations.” This imperative is a foundational aspect of Christian life and church ministry. When a local church is missions-minded, it recognizes that the call to evangelize the world is not just for missionaries or a select group, but for the entire body of believers. For many churches, this means being intentional in fostering a culture that equips and mobilizes every member to share the Gospel in their everyday lives — in their neighborhoods, workplaces, schools, and among their families. The local church has the responsibility to both nurture and send out believers to fulfill this Commission.

Congratulations! If you’re reading this, chances are you’re either newly engaged or freshly married, standing at the start of a beautiful new chapter with your partner. Marriage is such a joyful, God-ordained union, but it also comes with its share of questions, especially if you feel called to foreign or local missions. You might find yourself wondering, “Should we wait to go into the mission field? Should we take time to settle into married life first? Can we truly balance both?” These are big questions, and there are no “one-size-fits-all” answers. But with prayer, reflection, and some guidance, you can discern if this is the right time for you and your spouse to step into missions together. Here’s some food for thought as you prayerfully consider this decision. Your Marriage Is a Ministry Before addressing whether or not to jump into missions, it’s essential to recognize one powerful truth. You and your spouse’s union is already a ministry. Your marriage is a reflection of Christ’s love for the Church. Through your partnership, you model sacrificial love, mutual respect, and unwavering commitment, which can be a testimony to those around you. However, just like any ministry, it requires time, effort, and intentionality. Especially in the early days of marriage, you’ll be laying down the foundation for how you and your spouse communicate, resolve conflicts, and grow together spiritually. Ask yourselves honestly - Are we at a place where we can serve others while continuing to nurture the health of our relationship? Marriage and missions can go hand in hand, but ensuring that your relationship is solid and Christ-centered is key before taking that next step. Reasons to Enter the Mission Field Now There are a few reasons why jumping into the mission field as newlyweds might be a good choice for you both: 1. You Share a Unified Calling If you and your spouse feel equally passionate and called by God to missions, this might be His way of inviting you to serve Him directly together. Entering into missions as a couple can deepen your partnership and strengthen your faith as you face challenges and celebrate victories together. 2. It Can Shape the Foundation of Your Marriage For some couples, starting married life in a mission field can fortify the foundations of their relationship in a unique way. Serving others together teaches compassion and selflessness on a whole new level. It helps you lean on Christ and each other in ways that a more routine life may not. 3. Timing Might Be Aligned If both of your lives are at a stage where you’re relatively free of heavy obligations (like children, long-term careers, or debts), it may be the perfect season for you to pursue mission work. This flexibility is not guaranteed in every life stage, and you may want to strike while the timing is right.

Have you ever wondered where the concept of a "missionary" comes from in the Bible? While the exact term "missionary" isn't explicitly mentioned in the Scriptures, the concept of missions and the call to spread the Gospel are deeply woven into the biblical narrative. For us, understanding these biblical references can provide a robust foundation for missions work.

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