Any purpose for missions can best find its foundation in God's Word. God's desires, as expressed in the Scriptures, provide the basis for all that a local congregation is to be and do -- including their relationships and involvements with both believers and unbelievers. Church leaders have the opportunity to examine Scripture and clarify their understanding of the purpose and goals of missions for their congregation in this section of your missions policy.
This aspect of the purpose statement lets us know how God's overall plan for all peoples directs the mission involvement of our church, and why His people -- individually and collectively -- should respond to the missions ministry.
Where in Scripture do we find the purpose for our involvement in missions?
Consider these possibilities:
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To fulfill the Great Commission of Christ (Matthew 28:19-20; Mark 16:15; Luke 24:46-49; John 20:21; Acts 1:8; 26:16-18)
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To share Christ's heart for the world (John 3:16; Matthew 9:36-38; 18:10-14)
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To minister to the totality of human need (Matthew 10:42; 25:31-46; Luke 16:19-31)
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To bring men and women, girls and boys, to a saving knowledge of God (Romans 10:13-15; 1 Corinthians 9:19-23; Jude 22-23)
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To obey Christ by confessing him to the world (Matthew 10:32-33; 25:14-16; 1 John 4:2-3)
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To be a blessing to all people/nations (Genesis 12:1-3)
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