Commissioners

“Therefore go and make disciples in all the nations, baptizing them into the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit, and then teach these new disciples to obey all the commands I have given you; and be sure of this—that I am with you always, even to the end of the world.”

Matthew 28:19-20

Preaching the gospel is the primary mission of the church because the church is God's agency to evangelize the world. In early days, the church was God's agency to send preachers out to preach the word and do the work of God. The Bible says of the church at Antioch, "And when they had fasted and prayed and laid their hands on them, they sent them away" (Acts 13:1-3). This is our paramount objective. Sometimes people say: "What about the poor and the unfortunate? Doesn't the church have an obligation to them?" Yes, it is necessary to do good and relieve the afflicted, the needy and poor, but that is not the primary mission of the church.

Another mission of the church can be found in the last part of that great commission, as stated by Matthew. He said, "Teaching them to observe all things whatsoever I have commanded you." Jesus said, "Teaching them." Who? Teaching those who are baptized, teaching the saved, teaching them to observe all things the Saviour commanded. When the church has made disciples, then it is the mission of the church to teach them what Jesus wants them to know. It is not enough to teach them the first principles and then leave them to their own devices - they must be taught to observe all things that Jesus commanded. Therefore, teaching the saved is necessary.

Another important mission of the church, by means of its ministers, is to strengthen the body of believers and equip them for works of ministry. The church should be an atmosphere of spiritual edification, where God's Word is taught, where believers are grounded, discipled and led toward maturity. This not only serves to anchor their faith in Christ, but prepares them for service. According to God's plan, each member of the body of Christ is called to serve in some aspect of ministry, especially as it pertains toward bringing souls to Christ.

God wants all people to hear the new of salvation. One of the most familiar verses in the Bible, John 3:16, reminds us of God’s love for everyone on earth and His desire that none perish but all have everlasting life. A church’s involvement in fulfilling its global mission happens only when individual Christians assume a global mission outlook and involvement. Most times we forget that the world starts at our front door, even within our family. Ask God to make you aware of people you know or come into contact with who are open to hear the good news and do not hesitate is sharing the best new ever with them – the new that Jesus die and rose to bring us salvation.