Introduction

The concept of "Embracing Our Mission" is deeply rooted in the Christian faith, reflecting the call to live out the Great Commission and fulfill God's purpose for our lives. This mission is not merely a task but a divine mandate that encompasses evangelism, discipleship, and service, as outlined in the Scriptures. The Bible provides numerous examples and teachings that guide believers in understanding and embracing their mission.

Biblical Foundation

The foundation of embracing our mission is found in the Great Commission, as recorded in Matthew 28:18-20 : "Then Jesus came to them and said, 'All authority in heaven and on earth has been given to Me. Therefore go and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Spirit, and teaching them to obey all that I have commanded you. And surely I am with you always, to the very end of the age.'" This passage underscores the authority of Christ and the imperative for believers to spread the Gospel and teach others to follow His commandments.

Old Testament Insights

The Old Testament provides early glimpses of God's mission for His people. In Genesis 12:1-3, God calls Abram to leave his country and promises to make him a great nation through which all the families of the earth will be blessed. This covenantal promise highlights the missional aspect of God's plan, which is to bless all nations through His chosen people.

The prophet Isaiah also speaks to the mission of God's people, declaring in Isaiah 49:6 , "It is not enough for you to be My servant, to raise up the tribes of Jacob and restore the protected ones of Israel. I will also make you a light for the nations, to bring My salvation to the ends of the earth." This passage emphasizes the global scope of God's mission, calling His people to be a light to the nations.

New Testament Teachings

In the New Testament, Jesus exemplifies the mission through His life and ministry. In Luke 4:18-19 , Jesus reads from the scroll of Isaiah, proclaiming, "The Spirit of the Lord is on Me, because He has anointed Me to preach good news to the poor. He has sent Me to proclaim liberty to the captives and recovery of sight to the blind, to release the oppressed, to proclaim the year of the Lord’s favor." Jesus' mission is characterized by preaching, healing, and liberating, setting a model for His followers.

The Apostle Paul further articulates the mission in 2 Corinthians 5:18-20 : "All this is from God, who reconciled us to Himself through Christ and gave us the ministry of reconciliation: that God was reconciling the world to Himself in Christ, not counting men’s trespasses against them. And He has committed to us the message of reconciliation. Therefore we are ambassadors for Christ, as though God were making His appeal through us." Paul emphasizes the role of believers as ambassadors, entrusted with the message of reconciliation.

Practical Application

Embracing our mission involves active participation in God's work on earth. This includes evangelism, as believers are called to share the Gospel with others, as seen in Acts 1:8 : "But you will receive power when the Holy Spirit comes upon you, and you will be My witnesses in Jerusalem, and in all Judea and Samaria, and to the ends of the earth." The empowerment of the Holy Spirit is essential for fulfilling this mission.

Discipleship is another critical aspect, as believers are tasked with nurturing and teaching others in the faith. In 2 Timothy 2:2 , Paul instructs Timothy, "And the things you have heard me say among many witnesses, entrust to reliable men who will also be qualified to teach others." This passage highlights the importance of passing on the teachings of Christ to future generations.

Service is also integral to the mission, as believers are called to serve others in love. Galatians 5:13 states, "For you, brothers, were called to freedom; but do not use your freedom as an opportunity for the flesh. Rather, serve one another in love." Service reflects the love of Christ and is a tangible expression of the mission.

Conclusion

The mission of the believer is a comprehensive call to evangelize, disciple, and serve, rooted in the authority of Christ and empowered by the Holy Spirit. Through Scripture, believers are equipped and encouraged to embrace this mission, impacting the world for the glory of God.