Definition and Overview:

In the context of the Bible, "mission" refers to the divinely ordained task or calling given to individuals or groups to fulfill God's will on earth. "Purpose" is closely related, denoting the intention or objective behind God's creation and His plans for humanity. Together, mission and purpose underscore the active role believers are called to play in God's redemptive plan.

Biblical Foundations:

1. The Great Commission:
The clearest articulation of mission in the New Testament is found in the Great Commission. Jesus commands His disciples, "Go therefore and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit, teaching them to obey all that I have commanded you" (Matthew 28:19-20). This directive establishes the mission of the Church to spread the Gospel and make disciples worldwide.

2. Old Testament Examples:
The concept of mission is not limited to the New Testament. In the Old Testament, God calls Abraham with a purpose: "And through your offspring all nations of the earth will be blessed" (Genesis 22:18). This promise sets the stage for Israel's role as a light to the nations, a theme echoed in Isaiah 49:6, where God declares, "I will also make you a light for the nations, to bring My salvation to the ends of the earth" .

3. Purpose in Creation:
The Bible begins with the purpose of creation, as God creates humanity in His image to steward the earth (Genesis 1:26-28). This foundational purpose is reaffirmed throughout Scripture, emphasizing humanity's role in reflecting God's glory and exercising dominion over creation.

4. Individual Purpose:
Scripture also speaks to individual purpose. Jeremiah 29:11 states, "For I know the plans I have for you, declares the LORD, plans to prosper you and not to harm you, to give you a future and a hope." This assurance highlights God's personal involvement in the lives of His people, guiding them toward His intended purpose.

Theological Implications:

1. Sovereignty of God:
The mission and purpose of believers are rooted in the sovereignty of God. Ephesians 1:11 affirms, "In Him we were also chosen as God’s own, having been predestined according to the plan of Him who works out everything by the counsel of His will." This underscores that God's purposes are ultimately fulfilled through His divine will and power.

2. Role of the Church:
The Church is the primary vehicle for fulfilling God's mission on earth. Ephesians 3:10 reveals that "the manifold wisdom of God should be made known to the rulers and authorities in the heavenly realms, according to the eternal purpose that He accomplished in Christ Jesus our Lord." The Church is called to manifest God's wisdom and purpose to the world.

3. Eschatological Perspective:
The mission and purpose of believers are eschatological, pointing toward the ultimate fulfillment of God's kingdom. Revelation 7:9 envisions a future where "a great multitude that no one could count, from every nation and tribe and people and tongue, standing before the throne and before the Lamb." This vision reflects the culmination of the Church's mission and God's redemptive purpose.

Practical Application:

1. Living with Purpose:
Believers are encouraged to live with intentionality, aligning their lives with God's purposes. Colossians 3:17 instructs, "And whatever you do, in word or deed, do it all in the name of the Lord Jesus, giving thanks to God the Father through Him."

2. Engagement in Mission:
Christians are called to actively participate in God's mission, whether through evangelism, service, or discipleship. Acts 1:8 promises, "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."

3. Dependence on the Holy Spirit:
The fulfillment of mission and purpose is empowered by the Holy Spirit. Galatians 5:25 encourages believers, "Since we live by the Spirit, let us walk in step with the Spirit," emphasizing the necessity of divine guidance and empowerment in pursuing God's mission.