The continuing missionary imperative
The Mission of the church is local and international, historic and contemporary, and it is still valid. The Great Commission given by Jesus has never been revoked. In the closing verses of Matthew, we read one version of the Great Commission, which is recorded by each of the gospel writers, is repeated in the Acts of the Apostles, and reiterated by the Apostle Paul. Matt 28:18-20; Mark 16:15-16; Luke 24:46-49; John 20:21-22; Acts 1:8; 26:13-18.
This Great Commission, as it is known, is unique among the words of Jesus. Each Gospel records something of individual significance, yet each has a unity of purpose. Matthew 28:16-20 “Jesus said, “All authority in heaven and on earth has been given to me. Therefore go and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit, and teaching them to obey everything I have commanded you. And surely I am with you always, to the very end of the age.” Jesus commanded His disciples and those who believe in Him to evangelise the world and make the gospel known to every creature. That command still is in force.
When Jesus gave His disciples the commission to evangelise the world, He was not turning the church into a missionary agency. Jesus was sent, and He sends us. Hence the two imperatives: “make disciples” and “preach the Gospel”. We proclaim the gospel so people will turn to Christ as Lord and Saviour. They then must become committed followers.
Over the years of ministry my wife and I have supported individual missionaries in the Philippines, India, Israel, The New Hebrides, China and Sri Lanka among other places.
Recently I spoke at Belconnen Baptist Church where our son, Rev David Moyes, is the Senior Pastor. This one church supports 33 missionaries overseas as well as a large staff in Canberra. As I finished speaking I called for people who desired to offer themselves for training for overseas missionary service to come forward.
Eight adults came forward. This wonderful acceptance of the Church’s missionary role is a salutatory lesson for us all.
Every congregation of Christians has a responsibility to see the Great Commission carried out in our generation. This requires of us to either go to some area of cross-cultural ministry or else support those who do.
This is a challenge to each Christian and every congregation.
REV THE HON. DR GORDON MOYES, A.C., M.L.C.
