Preparation for mission is a critical theme in the Bible, reflecting the divine call and equipping of individuals and communities to spread the message of God's kingdom. This preparation involves spiritual, emotional, and practical readiness, as seen throughout both the Old and New Testaments.

Old Testament Foundations

The concept of preparation for mission can be traced back to the Old Testament, where God often prepared His chosen servants for specific tasks. For instance, Moses spent forty years in the wilderness before leading the Israelites out of Egypt (Exodus 3-4). This period was crucial for his spiritual and leadership development. Similarly, the prophets, such as Isaiah and Jeremiah, were called and prepared by God to deliver His messages to the people of Israel. Isaiah's vision in the temple (Isaiah 6) and Jeremiah's call as a youth (Jeremiah 1:4-10) highlight the divine preparation and commissioning for their prophetic missions.

New Testament Examples

In the New Testament, Jesus Christ exemplifies the ultimate preparation for mission. Before beginning His public ministry, Jesus was baptized by John the Baptist and then led by the Spirit into the wilderness for forty days of fasting and prayer (Matthew 3:13-4:11). This period of preparation was essential for His mission to proclaim the kingdom of God.

The disciples also underwent a period of preparation. Jesus called them to follow Him, teaching and training them over three years. He equipped them with knowledge, spiritual authority, and practical instructions for their mission. In Luke 9:1-6, Jesus sends out the Twelve, giving them power and authority over demons and diseases, instructing them to proclaim the kingdom of God and to heal the sick.

The Great Commission

The Great Commission in Matthew 28:18-20 serves as a pivotal moment of preparation for mission. Jesus commands His disciples to "go and make disciples of all nations," promising His presence with them always. This commission underscores the necessity of spiritual readiness and reliance on the Holy Spirit, who empowers believers for mission.

Role of the Holy Spirit

The Book of Acts highlights the role of the Holy Spirit in preparing and empowering believers for mission. Before His ascension, Jesus instructed the disciples to wait in Jerusalem for the "promise of the Father" (Acts 1:4-5). On the day of Pentecost, the Holy Spirit descended upon them, filling them with power to witness in Jerusalem, Judea, Samaria, and to the ends of the earth (Acts 1:8; 2:1-4). The Spirit's guidance and empowerment are essential for effective mission work.

Practical Aspects of Preparation

Preparation for mission also involves practical aspects, such as understanding cultural contexts, learning languages, and developing strategies for evangelism and discipleship. The Apostle Paul is a prime example of someone who prepared thoroughly for his missionary journeys. He adapted his approach to different audiences, as seen in his address to the Athenians at the Areopagus (Acts 17:22-31), demonstrating cultural awareness and sensitivity.

Prayer and Fasting

Prayer and fasting are vital components of preparation for mission. Jesus often withdrew to solitary places to pray (Luke 5:16), modeling the importance of communion with the Father. The early church also engaged in prayer and fasting when commissioning missionaries, as seen in Acts 13:2-3, where the Holy Spirit directed the church at Antioch to set apart Barnabas and Saul for the work to which they were called.

Conclusion

Preparation for mission is a multifaceted process involving spiritual, emotional, and practical readiness. It is rooted in a deep relationship with God, reliance on the Holy Spirit, and a commitment to the Great Commission. Through biblical examples, believers are encouraged to seek God's guidance and empowerment as they engage in the mission of spreading the gospel to all nations.