Focus on mission is a central theme in the Christian faith, emphasizing the believer's call to participate in God's redemptive work in the world. This concept is rooted in the Great Commission, where Jesus commands His followers to "go and make disciples of all nations" (Matthew 28:19). The mission is not merely an activity but a fundamental aspect of Christian identity and purpose.

Biblical Foundation

The Bible presents mission as an integral part of God's plan from the beginning. 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 covenant establishes the foundation for Israel's role as a light to the nations, a theme echoed throughout the Old Testament.

The prophetic literature further underscores this mission. Isaiah 49:6 declares, "I will also make you a light for the nations, to bring My salvation to the ends of the earth" . This vision of a universal mission is fulfilled in the New Testament through the life and ministry of Jesus Christ.

Jesus and the Mission

Jesus embodies the mission of God, proclaiming the Kingdom of God and calling people to repentance and faith. In Luke 4:18-19, Jesus reads from Isaiah, declaring His mission "to proclaim good news to the poor... to proclaim the year of the Lord’s favor" . His ministry is marked by teaching, healing, and acts of compassion, demonstrating the inbreaking of God's kingdom.

The culmination of Jesus' earthly mission is His death and resurrection, which provide the means for reconciliation between God and humanity. In John 20:21, the risen Christ commissions His disciples, saying, "As the Father has sent Me, so also I am sending you" . This sending reflects the continuation of Jesus' mission through His followers.

The Early Church and Mission

The Book of Acts records the early church's commitment to mission, empowered by the Holy Spirit at Pentecost (Acts 2:1-4). The apostles and early Christians spread the gospel across cultural and geographical boundaries, as seen in the missionary journeys of Paul and others. Acts 1:8 captures this expanding mission: "You will be My witnesses in Jerusalem, and in all Judea and Samaria, and to the ends of the earth" .

The epistles further instruct believers on living missionally. Paul, in Romans 10:14-15, emphasizes the necessity of preaching the gospel: "How can they hear without someone to preach? And how can they preach unless they are sent?" . The call to mission is both a privilege and a responsibility for every believer.

Contemporary Application

Focus on mission today involves engaging with the world through evangelism, discipleship, and acts of service. Christians are called to be salt and light (Matthew 5:13-16), influencing society with the values of the Kingdom. This mission extends to addressing social injustices, caring for the marginalized, and stewarding creation.

The global church continues to embrace this mission, recognizing the diverse contexts and challenges of the modern world. Mission organizations, local churches, and individual believers work together to fulfill the Great Commission, driven by the love of Christ and the power of the Holy Spirit.

Conclusion

Focus on mission remains a vital aspect of the Christian life, rooted in Scripture and exemplified by Jesus and the early church. It calls believers to active participation in God's redemptive work, proclaiming the gospel and living out its implications in every sphere of life.