Sent by God
Key thoughtGod Himself initiates missions. He calls specific people and sends them out to share the gospel.
“Look for how the Holy Spirit calls the church to set people apart for a special work.”
1Now there were in the church at Antioch prophets and teachers, Barnabas, Simeon who was called Niger, Lucius of Cyrene, Manaen a lifelong friend of Herod the tetrarch, and Saul. 2While they were worshiping the Lord and fasting, the Holy Spirit said, “Set apart for me Barnabas and Saul for the work to which I have called them.”
At the church in Antioch, prophets and teachers were worshiping and fasting. The Holy Spirit spoke: “Set apart for me Barnabas and Saul for the work to which I have called them.” God did not wait for volunteers. He chose. He named specific people and gave them a specific task.
Paul and Barnabas were not sent because they were the most qualified. They were sent because God chose them. That is how missions has always worked. God calls, God sends, and His people respond. The church’s role is to recognize what God is doing and to participate in it — through prayer, through support, through sending.
This Sunday, Pastor Daniel will preach on Missions. As we prepare, let us ask: What is God doing in His world? How can we join Him in it? The missionary we are praying for is Justin, serving in Europe. God sent Justin just as He sent Paul and Barnabas. The question is not just “What will I do?” but “What is God doing, and how can I join Him?”
Who first shared the gospel with you? Take a moment to thank God for sending that person into your life.
- Who does God call to His mission? Does He wait for volunteers, or does He choose?
- Who shared the gospel with you? How did God use that person to reach you?
Thank God for sending Jesus to save you. Thank Him for the person who told you about Jesus. Ask God: “What are You doing in Your world, and how can I join You in it?” Pray for Justin in Europe.
Amen