Baptist Bible Institute
Missions Lessons
Introduction –
Everything begins and ends to the Glory of God!
Genesis 1:1 In the beginning God created the heaven and the earth.
Revelation 22:21 The grace of our Lord Jesus Christ be with you all. Amen.
We must keep this truth in mind as the revealed will of God unfolds before us through His Word.
We must keep the truth that we are in the last days according to the Word of God. We do not measure the days by their number, but by where they are in relation to His plan. We have been living in what can be called a parenthesis in the plan of God. The time in between His setting aside the His Nation Israel and the time of His restoring His Nation, the establishment of His Kingdom on earth, and finally the beginning of what is known as the eternal state –
1 Corinthians 15:24 Then cometh the end, when he shall have delivered up the kingdom to God, even the Father; when he shall have put down all rule and all authority and power.
We must keep the truth in mind that we do not know the time of the Lord’s return, but we do know what is going to take place at His return. The beginning of His return will be the taking away of those saved by faith through grace and the end will follow the judgment of the unbelievers at the Great White Throne of Judgment.
With all of this in mind, we realize the importance of the Lord’s command to “go into all the world and preach the gospel to every creature”.
We begin with –
I. The Purpose of Missions John chapter 17
A. The Glory of God.
John 17:1 These words spake Jesus, and lifted up his eyes to heaven, and said, Father, the hour is come; glorify thy Son, that thy Son also may glorify thee:
John 17:4-5 I have glorified thee on the earth: I have finished the work which thou gavest me to do. And now, O Father, glorify thou me with thine own self with the glory which I had with thee before the world was.
The Purpose of missions –
B. The Gift of Eternal Life has been offered.
John 17:2-3 As thou hast given him power over all flesh, that he should give eternal life to as many as thou hast given him. And this is life eternal, that they might know thee the only true God, and Jesus Christ, whom thou hast sent.
“…given him…” Refer to –
John 6:44-47 No man can come to me, except the Father which hath sent me draw him: and I will raise him up at the last day. It is written in the prophets, And they shall be all taught of God. Every man therefore that hath heard, and hath learned of the Father, cometh unto me. Not that any man hath seen the Father, save he which is of God, he hath seen the Father. Verily, verily, I say unto you, He that believeth on me hath everlasting life.
People are drawn by the Father to the Son through the Word –
Romans 10:13-15 For whosoever shall call upon the name of the Lord shall be saved. How then shall they call on him in whom they have not believed? and how shall they believe in him of whom they have not heard? and how shall they hear without a preacher? And how shall they preach, except they be sent? as it is written, How beautiful are the feet of them that preach the gospel of peace, and bring glad tidings of good things!
The Purpose of missions –
C. To Give the Word of God.
John 17:6-8 I have manifested thy name unto the men which thou gavest me out of the world: thine they were, and thou gavest them me; and they have kept thy word. Now they have known that all things whatsoever thou hast given me are of thee. For I have given unto them the words which thou gavest me; and they have received them, and have known surely that I came out from thee, and they have believed that thou didst send me.
Note: Many churches have been distracted from this command!
The Purpose of missions –
D. To Turn Grief into Joy.
John 17:13 And now come I to thee; and these things I speak in the world, that they might have my joy fulfilled in themselves.
Refer to –
Romans 7:24-25 O wretched man that I am! who shall deliver me from the body of this death? I thank God through Jesus Christ our Lord…..
The Purpose of missions –
E. To Go into all the world with His Message.
John 17:17-20 Sanctify them through thy truth: thy word is truth. As thou hast sent me into the world, even so have I also sent them into the world. And for their sakes I sanctify myself, that they also might be sanctified through the truth. Neither pray I for these alone, but for them also which shall believe on me through their word;
The Purpose of missions –
F. To Gather together all in unity with the Father and the Son.
John 17:21-23 That they all may be one; as thou, Father, art in me, and I in thee, that they also may be one in us: that the world may believe that thou hast sent me. And the glory which thou gavest me I have given them; that they may be one, even as we are one: I in them, and thou in me, that they may be made perfect in one; and that the world may know that thou hast sent me, and hast loved them, as thou hast loved me.
The Purpose of missions –
G. To Glorify God. John 17:24-26
Completes the purpose of giving all glory to God.
1. Residing in His Presence.
John 17:24-25 Father, I will that they also, whom thou hast given me, be with me where I am; that they may behold my glory, which thou hast given me: for thou lovedst me before the foundation of the world. O righteous Father, the world hath not known thee: but I have known thee, and these have known that thou hast sent me.
2. Rejoicing in His Love.
John 17:26 And I have declared unto them thy name, and will declare it: that the love wherewith thou hast loved me may be in them, and I in them.
The Purpose of Missions is to give Him glory for He is worthy –
Revelation 5:13 And every creature which is in heaven, and on the earth, and under the earth, and such as are in the sea, and all that are in them, heard I saying, Blessing, and honour, and glory, and power, be unto him that sitteth upon the throne, and unto the Lamb for ever and ever.
Is His purpose your purpose?
Once the purpose is understood, we must learn of –
II. The Power of Missions
A. The Authority Established – The Lord Jesus Christ.
Philippians 2:5-11 Let this mind be in you, which was also in Christ Jesus: Who, being in the form of God, thought it not robbery to be equal with God: But made himself of no reputation, and took upon him the form of a servant, and was made in the likeness of men: And being found in fashion as a man, he humbled himself, and became obedient unto death, even the death of the cross. Wherefore God also hath highly exalted him, and given him a name which is above every name: That at the name of Jesus every knee should bow, of things in heaven, and things in earth, and things under the earth; And that every tongue should confess that Jesus Christ is Lord, to the glory of God the Father.
As we read these words carefully, which describe the power and authority of the Lord Jesus Christ, we should consider Him, Jesus of Nazareth, crucified, buried, and risen from the dead, as He stood before the disciples and declared to them that He has all power in the entire universe.
Matthew 28:18-20 And Jesus came and spake unto them, saying, All power is given unto me in heaven and in earth.
Have you thought much about the man the disciples had traveled here to meet. The man, who was not a giant like Goliath, He was not speaking from a chariot with magnificent war horses, surrounded by legions of soldiers like Caesar, not dressed in His glory as He was when speaking with the Apostle John on Patmos –
Revelation 1:13-17 And in the midst of the seven candlesticks one like unto the Son of man, clothed with a garment down to the foot, and girt about the paps with a golden girdle. His head and his hairs were white like wool, as white as snow; and his eyes were as a flame of fire; And his feet like unto fine brass, as if they burned in a furnace; and his voice as the sound of many waters. And he had in his right hand seven stars: and out of his mouth went a sharp twoedged sword: and his countenance was as the sun shineth in his strength. And when I saw him, I fell at his feet as dead. And he laid his right hand upon me, saying unto me, Fear not; I am the first and the last:
– He stood there before them as Jesus of Nazareth, risen from the dead, still bearing the marks of the crucifixion in His body, the man they had followed for over three years. We can understand as the people stood and listened to this man why it is recorded –
Mt 28:17 And when they saw him, they worshipped him: but some doubted.
We can imagine that some wondered why He was not larger than life, thinking He should be addressing them while suspended in the air so that all could see and hear, or surrounded by angels, or manifesting His glory. This meeting was not the time for these wonders.
This quiet meeting, in the hills of Galilee, is one of the most profound of all time, and yet seems so unusual as we imagine the Son of God, the King of Kings, the Lord Christ Jesus commanding His disciples to carry out a commission that is going to change individual lives, and through them, the world. This time was the moment for the infinite power of God, invested through man, to be trusted and believed. Their faith would lead them forward in obedience –
Go ye therefore, and teach all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Ghost: Teaching them to observe all things whatsoever I have commanded you: and, lo, I am with you alway, even unto the end of the world. Amen.
– not making the world a better place, but preparing it for His Return in power to complete His plan for His people.
B. The Authority Explained –
Acts 1:4-8 …being assembled together with them, commanded them that they should not depart from Jerusalem, but wait for the promise of the Father, which, saith he, ye have heard of me. For John truly baptized with water; but ye shall be baptized with the Holy Ghost not many days hence. When they therefore were come together, they asked of him, saying, Lord, wilt thou at this time restore again the kingdom to Israel? And he said unto them, It is not for you to know the times or the seasons, which the Father hath put in his own power. But ye shall receive power, after that the Holy Ghost is come upon you: and ye shall be witnesses unto me both in Jerusalem, and in all Judaea, and in Samaria, and unto the uttermost part of the earth.
All that we are is in a Person, THE Person – our Lord Jesus Christ.
Matthew 28:18 “All power is given unto me”
1. The Lord Jesus Christ sends.
2. The Lord Jesus Christ receives. He is worthy of all glory –
Philippians 2:10-11 That at the name of Jesus every knee should bow, of things in heaven, and things in earth, and things under the earth; And that every tongue should confess that Jesus Christ is Lord, to the glory of God the Father.
C. The Authority applied – The Holy Spirit empowered the church.
Acts 2:1-3 And when the day of Pentecost was fully come, they were all with one accord in one place. And suddenly there came a sound from heaven as of a rushing mighty wind, and it filled all the house where they were sitting. And there appeared unto them cloven tongues like as of fire, and it sat upon each of them.
1. Promise of power fulfilled.
a. The promise made.
Matthew 3:7-12 I indeed baptize you with water unto repentance: but he that cometh after me is mightier than I, whose shoes I am not worthy to bear: he shall baptize you with the Holy Ghost, and with fire: Whose fan is in his hand, and he will throughly purge his floor, and gather his wheat into the garner; but he will burn up the chaff with unquenchable fire.
b. The promise explained.
Acts 1:4-5 And, being assembled together with them, commanded them that they should not depart from Jerusalem, but wait for the promise of the Father, which, saith he, ye have heard of me. For John truly baptized with water; but ye shall be baptized with the Holy Ghost not many days hence.
c. The promise fulfilled.
Acts 2:2 And suddenly there came a sound from heaven as of a rushing mighty wind, and it filled all the house where they were sitting.
2. Preaching with power.
a. Peter stood.
Acts 2:14 But Peter, standing up with the eleven, lifted up his voice, and said unto them, Ye men of Judaea, and all ye that dwell at Jerusalem, be this known unto you, and hearken to my words:
With power, not pride! (50 days had passed since Peter had denied that he even knew the Lord!)
b. Peter preached. Acts 2:22-36
“Ye men of Israel, hear these words…”
c. Peter persuaded. Acts 2:37-40 The Lord convicted –
“what shall we do”?
d. Peter pastored. Acts 2:41,42 Refer to John 21:15-17
“…feed my lambs…”
As we submit ourselves to serve the Lord in His power, we learn that we must seek Him in prayer.
III. The Prayer for Missions.
Prayer in –
A. Seeking God’s Plan.
Acts 13:1-3 Now there were in the church that was at Antioch certain prophets and teachers; as Barnabas, and Simeon that was called Niger, and Lucius of Cyrene, and Manaen, which had been brought up with Herod the tetrarch, and Saul. As they ministered to the Lord, and fasted, the Holy Ghost said, Separate me Barnabas and Saul for the work whereunto I have called them. And when they had fasted and prayed, and laid their hands on them, they sent them away.
1. They were serving. “…the ministered to the Lord…”
2. They were seeking God’s plan. “…fasted…”
Refer also to –
Acts 14:23 And when they had ordained them elders in every church, and had prayed with fasting, they commended them to the Lord, on whom they believed.
Prayer in –
B. Seeking God’s Protection.
Philippians 1:19-20 For I know that this shall turn to my salvation through your prayer, and the supply of the Spirit of Jesus Christ, According to my earnest expectation and my hope, that in nothing I shall be ashamed, but that with all boldness, as always, so now also Christ shall be magnified in my body, whether it be by life, or by death.
2 Thessalonians 3:1-2 Finally, brethren, pray for us, that the word of the Lord may have free course, and be glorified, even as it is with you: And that we may be delivered from unreasonable and wicked men: for all men have not faith.
Prayer in –
C. Seeking God’s Path.
Romans 1:9-10 For God is my witness, whom I serve with my spirit in the gospel of his Son, that without ceasing I make mention of you always in my prayers; Making request, if by any means now at length I might have a prosperous journey by the will of God to come unto you.
1 Thessalonians 3:10-11 Night and day praying exceedingly that we might see your face, and might perfect that which is lacking in your faith? Now God himself and our Father, and our Lord Jesus Christ, direct our way unto you.
Prayer in –
D. Seeking God’s Provision
Philippians 4:10-19 But I rejoiced in the Lord greatly, that now at the last your care of me hath flourished again; wherein ye were also careful, but ye lacked opportunity. Not that I speak in respect of want: for I have learned, in whatsoever state I am, therewith to be content. I know both how to be abased, and I know how to abound: every where and in all things I am instructed both to be full and to be hungry, both to abound and to suffer need. I can do all things through Christ which strengtheneth me. Notwithstanding ye have well done, that ye did communicate with my affliction. Now ye Philippians know also, that in the beginning of the gospel, when I departed from Macedonia, no church communicated with me as concerning giving and receiving, but ye only. For even in Thessalonica ye sent once and again unto my necessity. Not because I desire a gift: but I desire fruit that may abound to your account. But I have all, and abound: I am full, having received of Epaphroditus the things which were sent from you, an odour of a sweet smell, a sacrifice acceptable, wellpleasing to God. But my God shall supply all your need according to his riches in glory by Christ Jesus.
Titus 3:13-14 Bring Zenas the lawyer and Apollos on their journey diligently, that nothing be wanting unto them. And let ours also learn to maintain good works for necessary uses, that they be not unfruitful.
Prayer in –
E. Seeking God’s Power
Ephesians 6:18-20 Praying always with all prayer and supplication in the Spirit, and watching thereunto with all perseverance and supplication for all saints; And for me, that utterance may be given unto me, that I may open my mouth boldly, to make known the mystery of the gospel, For which I am an ambassador in bonds: that therein I may speak boldly, as I ought to speak.
Colossians 4:3-4 Withal praying also for us, that God would open unto us a door of utterance, to speak the mystery of Christ, for which I am also in bonds: That I may make it manifest, as I ought to speak.
IV. The Plan of Missions
A. The Progression – From the Resurrection to the Regions beyond.
Acts 1:8 But ye shall receive power, after that the Holy Ghost is come upon you: and ye shall be witnesses unto me both in Jerusalem, and in all Judaea, and in Samaria, and unto the uttermost part of the earth.
The Biblical evidence of the ministry of the Gospel taken into the world reveals that the Word was taken south into Ethiopia, Acts 8:27-40, East to Babylon, 1 Peter 6:13, North to Bithynia and Galatia – regions of Asia, Macedonia, Greece, and over into Italy. The ministry very well may have extended West into Spain according to the desire of that Apostle Paul stated in Romans 15:23,24.
How does there come to be so little evidence of the further progress of the church in the first centuries? First, the type of writing material. This was a time of high literacy, but they wrote only on papyrus until 300 A.D., which did not last as long as parchment (which was much more expensive).
Second, The lack of stimulus to write a history (money, academic reasons).
And Third, the expectation of the soon return of Christ.
The question is asked,” Why would God allow such a gap in our knowledge? God could have caused an inspired history from through 300 A.D., but He did not. The history and expansion of the church is not founded on an organized history compiled by men, but on His Word.
Nestorian missionaries had reached into China, their ministry is testified to by a tablet dated 781AD. Many people had adopted the views of Nestorius, and being exiled, they went into the Persian Empire where they were at first accepted and later rejected; then they went into India. Known in India as the Thomas Christians. Following this, they went into China; where churches were established and the government welcomed Christianity. Schaff’s History says 70,000 Christians of the Thomas Christians were in India. From 1300 on the Nestorians in China and India have died out to a great extent.
The great problem was that Nestorius rejected the Virgin Birth of Jesus and promoted the belief that Jesus had two separate natures, one natural and one divine. He rejected the doctrine of the Hypostatic Union, that Jesus is both completely Divine and completely Human. Due to their adherence to false doctrine, they did not have the promise of God to keep them in His Word.
This knowledge reminds us of the imperative of Biblical truth in –
B. The Preaching –
Mark 16:15 And he said unto them, Go ye into all the world, and preach the gospel to every creature.
1. The priority of preaching the truth is declared in the Word of
God.
1 Corinthians 15:1-4 Moreover, brethren, I declare unto you the gospel which I preached unto you, which also ye have received, and wherein ye stand; By which also ye are saved, if ye keep in memory what I preached unto you, unless ye have believed in vain. For I delivered unto you first of all that which I also received, how that Christ died for our sins according to the scriptures; And that he was buried, and that he rose again the third day according to the scriptures:
2. The Protection from false doctrine is declared through
preaching the Word of God.
Acts 20:27-30 For I have not shunned to declare unto you all the counsel of God. Take heed therefore unto yourselves, and to all the flock, over the which the Holy Ghost hath made you overseers, to feed the church of God, which he hath purchased with his own blood. For I know this, that after my departing shall grievous wolves enter in among you, not sparing the flock. Also of your own selves shall men arise, speaking perverse things, to draw away disciples after them.
2 Timothy 4:,3 Preach the word; be instant in season, out of season; reprove, rebuke, exhort with all longsuffering and doctrine. For the time will come when they will not endure sound doctrine; but after their own lusts shall they heap to themselves teachers, having itching ears;
1 Timothy 3:15-16 But if I tarry long, that thou mayest know how thou oughtest to behave thyself in the house of God, which is the church of the living God, the pillar and ground of the truth. And without controversy great is the mystery of godliness: God was manifest in the flesh, justified in the Spirit, seen of angels, preached unto the Gentiles, believed on in the world, received up into glory.
3. The Purpose of God is declared through the preaching of the
Word of God.
John 17:20-21 Neither pray I for these alone, but for them also which shall believe on me through their word; That they all may be one; as thou, Father, art in me, and I in thee, that they also may be one in us: that the world may believe that thou hast sent me.
C The Planting –
1. The will of God is to establish His church.
Matthew 16:16-18 And Simon Peter answered and said, Thou art the Christ, the Son of the living God. And Jesus answered and said unto him, Blessed art thou, Simon Bar-jona: for flesh and blood hath not revealed it unto thee, but my Father which is in heaven. And I say also unto thee, That thou art Peter, and upon this rock I will build my church; and the gates of hell shall not prevail against it.
2. The will of God is to evangelize the world through His church.
Matthew 28:18-20 And Jesus came and spake unto them, saying, All power is given unto me in heaven and in earth. Go ye therefore, and teach all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Ghost: Teaching them to observe all things whatsoever I have commanded you: and, lo, I am with you alway, even unto the end of the world. Amen.
3. The will of God is to exalt Himself through His church.
Ephesians 3:20-21 Now unto him that is able to do exceeding abundantly above all that we ask or think, according to the power that worketh in us, Unto him be glory in the church by Christ Jesus throughout all ages, world without end. Amen.
V. The Participants in Missions.
A. The Church is invested with the Authority of God to carry out His
will in reaching the World with the Gospel of Jesus Christ.
The example is set forth through the ministry in Antioch.
1. The Establishment of the church.
Acts 11:19-20 Now they which were scattered abroad upon the persecution that arose about Stephen travelled as far as Phenice, and Cyprus, and Antioch, preaching the word to none but unto the Jews only. And some of them were men of Cyprus and Cyrene, which, when they were come to Antioch, spake unto the Grecians, preaching the Lord Jesus.
2. The Evangelization of the city through the church.
Acts 11:21-24 And the hand of the Lord was with them: and a great number believed, and turned unto the Lord. Then tidings of these things came unto the ears of the church which was in Jerusalem: and they sent forth Barnabas, that he should go as far as Antioch. Who, when he came, and had seen the grace of God, was glad, and exhorted them all, that with purpose of heart they would cleave unto the Lord. For he was a good man, and full of the Holy Ghost and of faith: and much people was added unto the Lord.
3. The Engagement of Paul to the ministry in Antioch.
Acts 11:25-26 Then departed Barnabas to Tarsus, for to seek Saul: And when he had found him, he brought him unto Antioch. And it came to pass, that a whole year they assembled themselves with the church, and taught much people. And the disciples were called Christians first in Antioch.
4. The Empathy of the church shown through their aid to the church
in Jerusalem.
Acts 11:27-30 And in these days came prophets from Jerusalem unto Antioch. And there stood up one of them named Agabus, and signified by the spirit that there should be great dearth throughout all the world: which came to pass in the days of Claudius Caesar. Then the disciples, every man according to his ability, determined to send relief unto the brethren which dwelt in Judaea: Which also they did, and sent it to the elders by the hands of Barnabas and Saul.
5. The Expansion of the church in to the world.
Acts 13:3-4 And when they had fasted and prayed, and laid their hands on them, they sent them away. So they, being sent forth by the Holy Ghost, departed unto Seleucia; and from thence they sailed to Cyprus.
B. The Church is invested in the calling of individual members to the
ministry of the Word of God to the world.
A. It is a Sovereign call by the Holy Spirit.
Acts 20:28 Take heed therefore unto yourselves, and to all the flock, over the which the Holy Ghost hath made you overseers, to feed the church of God, which he hath purchased with his own blood.
B. It is a select call to an individual.
Acts 13:2 As they ministered to the Lord, and fasted, the Holy Ghost said, Separate me Barnabas and Saul for the work whereunto I have called them.
Note – (John Mark was invited by His uncle, not called
by God)
Acts 13:6 And when they had gone through the isle unto Paphos, they found a certain sorcerer, a false prophet, a Jew, whose name was Bar-jesus:
Acts 13:13 Now when Paul and his company loosed from Paphos, they came to Perga in Pamphylia: and John departing from them returned to Jerusalem.
C. It is a specific call to the ministry of God’s Word.
The call must be in compliance with Mark 16:15,
2 Timothy 3:16,17; Hebrews 4:12 and
2 Timothy 4:1-2 I charge thee therefore before God, and the Lord Jesus Christ, who shall judge the quick and the dead at his appearing and his kingdom; Preach the word; be instant in season, out of season; reprove, rebuke, exhort with all longsuffering and doctrine.
D. It is a singular call to labour in the field – the world.
Ephesians 4:11-12 And he gave some, apostles; and some, prophets; and some, evangelists; and some, pastors and teachers; For the perfecting of the saints, for the work of the ministry, for the edifying of the body of Christ:
God will direct whom he calls.
Acts 13:4 So they, being sent forth by the Holy Ghost, departed unto Seleucia; and from thence they sailed to Cyprus.
Acts 16:6-10 Now when they had gone throughout Phrygia and the region of Galatia, and were forbidden of the Holy Ghost to preach the word in Asia, After they were come to Mysia, they assayed to go into Bithynia: but the Spirit suffered them not. And they passing by Mysia came down to Troas. And a vision appeared to Paul in the night; There stood a man of Macedonia, and prayed him, saying, Come over into Macedonia, and help us. And after he had seen the vision, immediately we endeavoured to go into Macedonia, assuredly gathering that the Lord had called us for to preach the gospel unto them.
E. It is a serious call to a serving man.
1. Giving his life to the Lord.
Romans 12:1-2 I beseech you therefore, brethren, by the mercies of God, that ye present your bodies a living sacrifice, holy, acceptable unto God, which is your reasonable service. And be not conformed to this world: but be ye transformed by the renewing of your mind, that ye may prove what is that good, and acceptable, and perfect, will of God.
2. Living his life for the Lord.
Colossians 1:9-10 For this cause we also, since the day we heard it, do not cease to pray for you, and to desire that ye might be filled with the knowledge of his will in all wisdom and spiritual understanding; That ye might walk worthy of the Lord unto all pleasing, being fruitful in every good work, and increasing in the knowledge of God;
3. Looking out unto the world.
Matthew 9:36-38 But when he saw the multitudes, he was moved with compassion on them, because they fainted, and were scattered abroad, as sheep having no shepherd. Then saith he unto his disciples, The harvest truly is plenteous, but the labourers are few; Pray ye therefore the Lord of the harvest, that he will send forth labourers into his harvest.
4. Listening for His Word to speak to his heart.
Luke 5:4-9 Now when he had left speaking, he said unto Simon, Launch out into the deep, and let down your nets for a draught. And Simon answering said unto him, Master, we have toiled all the night, and have taken nothing: nevertheless at thy word I will let down the net. And when they had this done, they inclosed a great multitude of fishes: and their net brake. And they beckoned unto their partners, which were in the other ship, that they should come and help them. And they came, and filled both the ships, so that they began to sink. When Simon Peter saw it, he fell down at Jesus’ knees, saying, Depart from me; for I am a sinful man, O Lord. For he was astonished, and all that were with him, at the draught of the fishes which they had taken:
John 21:5-6 Then Jesus saith unto them, Children, have ye any meat? They answered him, No. And he said unto them, Cast the net on the right side of the ship, and ye shall find. They cast therefore, and now they were not able to draw it for the multitude of fishes.
VI. The Provisions for Missions Part One
The financial support for both pastors and the missionaries will be covered in this lesson. The pastor is instructed to do the work of the evangelist –
2 Timothy 4:5 But watch thou in all things, endure afflictions, do the work of an evangelist, make full proof of thy ministry.
– and the evangelist must do the work of a pastor until a national pastor is called to pastor the church.
A. The support of the Pastor by the church.
1 Timothy 5:17-18 Let the elders that rule well be counted worthy of double honour, especially they who labour in the word and doctrine. For the scripture saith, Thou shalt not muzzle the ox that treadeth out the corn. And, The labourer is worthy of his reward.
B. The support of the Pastor and his responsibility to the church.
1. He should have a prepared heart and mind –
The pastor must understand that it is his responsibility to care for the needs of his family –
1 Timothy 5:8 But if any provide not for his own, and specially for those of his own house, he hath denied the faith, and is worse than an infidel.
1 Timothy 6:6-8 But godliness with contentment is great gain. For we brought nothing into this world, and it is certain we can carry nothing out. And having food and raiment let us be therewith content.
Therefore he must have a realistic knowledge those things the family needs and the cost to supply them. The pastor, especially in the beginning of the ministry of the church, will have to supply his needs to carry out the ministry. The best way for the pastor to state the needs is to have a personal fund for family and a work fund for ministry. The pastor must always remember that his tithe, missions giving, and offerings comes from his personal fund and not the ministry fund.
2. He should have proper motives:
a. Understand right motives –
The pastor should be supported by his church and he must understand that if he does not teach them to support him, he is not teaching the whole counsel of God.
Galatians 6:6-10 Let him that is taught in the word communicate unto him that teacheth in all good things. Be not deceived; God is not mocked: for whatsoever a man soweth, that shall he also reap. For he that soweth to his flesh shall of the flesh reap corruption; but he that soweth to the Spirit shall of the Spirit reap life everlasting. And let us not be weary in well doing: for in due season we shall reap, if we faint not. As we have therefore opportunity, let us do good unto all men, especially unto them who are of the household of faith.
b. Understand wrong motives –
1 Peter 5:1-4 The elders which are among you I exhort, who am also an elder, and a witness of the sufferings of Christ, and also a partaker of the glory that shall be revealed: Feed the flock of God which is among you, taking the oversight thereof, not by constraint, but willingly; not for filthy lucre, but of a ready mind; Neither as being lords over God’s heritage, but being ensamples to the flock. And when the chief Shepherd shall appear, ye shall receive a crown of glory that fadeth not away.
1 Timothy 6:9-10 But they that will be rich fall into temptation and a snare, and into many foolish and hurtful lusts, which drown men in destruction and perdition. For the love of money is the root of all evil: which while some coveted after, they have erred from the faith, and pierced themselves through with many sorrows.
C. The support of the missionary sent out by the church.
1. In Fellowship
Acts 13:2-4 As they ministered to the Lord, and fasted, the Holy Ghost said, Separate me Barnabas and Saul for the work whereunto I have called them. And when they had fasted and prayed, and laid their hands on them, they sent them away. So they, being sent forth by the Holy Ghost, departed unto Seleucia; and from thence they sailed to Cyprus.
Acts 15:2-3 When therefore Paul and Barnabas had no small dissension and disputation with them, they determined that Paul and Barnabas, and certain other of them, should go up to Jerusalem unto the apostles and elders about this question. And being brought on their way by the church, they passed through Phenice and Samaria, declaring the conversion of the Gentiles: and they caused great joy unto all the brethren.
Acts 21:5-6 And when we had accomplished those days, we departed and went our way; and they all brought us on our way, with wives and children, till we were out of the city: and we kneeled down on the shore, and prayed. And when we had taken our leave one of another, we took ship; and they returned home again.
2. In Finances
The sending church will help the missionary in this new work. The missionary and men of the sending church should counsel with him before he moves into the new area to determine his needs. He must always remember the purpose of his move is the calling of God to preach the Gospel, baptize, and teach them to observe all things whatsoever God commanded – in other words, the whole counsel!
a. The missionary must have his personal finances in order before
beginning the work!
The church finances will grow as people get saved, baptized, and taught. They should be able to take on the finances for facilities and church material. As they continue to grow and are able to care for the church finances, ten families tithing over that which is needed for the ministry, will equal one hundred percent of the average income of the community. This will cover the finances of the national pastor when the Lord raises him up to pastor the church.
1 Corinthians 9:3-12 Mine answer to them that do examine me is this, Have we not power to eat and to drink? Have we not power to lead about a sister, a wife, as well as other apostles, and as the brethren of the Lord, and Cephas? Or I only and Barnabas, have not we power to forbear working? Who goeth a warfare any time at his own charges? who planteth a vineyard, and eateth not of the fruit thereof? or who feedeth a flock, and eateth not of the milk of the flock? Say I these things as a man? or saith not the law the same also? For it is written in the law of Moses, Thou shalt not muzzle the mouth of the ox that treadeth out the corn. Doth God take care for oxen? Or saith he it altogether for our sakes? For our sakes, no doubt, this is written: that he that ploweth should plow in hope; and that he that thresheth in hope should be partaker of his hope. If we have sown unto you spiritual things, is it a great thing if we shall reap your carnal things? If others be partakers of this power over you, are not we rather?
Nevertheless we have not used this power; but suffer all things, lest we should hinder the gospel of Christ.
Note: We must remember that the Apostle Paul’s ministry took him throughout the Roman Empire, and as a Roman citizen, he had the liberty to work as a tradesman when he deemed it necessary to support his ministry.
Refer to –
Acts 18:2-4 And found a certain Jew named Aquila, born in Pontus, lately come from Italy, with his wife Priscilla; (because that Claudius had commanded all Jews to depart from Rome:) and came unto them. And because he was of the same craft, he abode with them, and wrought: for by their occupation they were tentmakers. And he reasoned in the synagogue every sabbath, and persuaded the Jews and the Greeks.
Modern missionaries must not expect to have the opportunities to supplement their financial support by working on the local economy. Sufficient support must be raised prior to leaving for the field.
John also instructed the churches to support the ministry in order to protect the testimony of the preachers. The accusations of seeking finances or favour for the preaching of the Gospel would destroy the integrity of the preachers. Notice the Old Testament example of the care to protect one’s testimony in –
Genesis 14:21-23 And the king of Sodom said unto Abram, Give me the persons, and take the goods to thyself. And Abram said to the king of Sodom, I have lift up mine hand unto the LORD, the most high God, the possessor of heaven and earth, That I will not take from a thread even to a shoelatchet, and that I will not take any thing that is thine, lest thou shouldest say, I have made Abram rich:
To maintain a Godly testimony, the churches should take the support of the ministers upon themselves.
3 John 5-8 Beloved, thou doest faithfully whatsoever thou doest to the brethren, and to strangers; Which have borne witness of thy charity before the church: whom if thou bring forward on their journey after a godly sort, thou shalt do well: Because that for his name’s sake they went forth, taking nothing of the Gentiles. We therefore ought to receive such, that we might be fellowhelpers to the truth.
The churches are to investigate and invest in everything that is needed by the missionary to advance his ministry.
Titus 3:13-14 Bring Zenas the lawyer and Apollos on their journey diligently, that nothing be wanting unto them. And let ours also learn to maintain good works for necessary uses, that they be not unfruitful.
b. The missionary should promote faith in the church and lead by
example –
Philippians 4:10-12 But I rejoiced in the Lord greatly, that now at the last your care of me hath flourished again; wherein ye were also careful, but ye lacked opportunity. Not that I speak in respect of want: for I have learned, in whatsoever state I am, therewith to be content. I know both how to be abased, and I know how to abound: every where and in all things I am instructed both to be full and to be hungry, both to abound and to suffer need.
Philippians 4:19 But my God shall supply all your need according to his riches in glory by Christ Jesus.
VI. The Provisions for Missions Part Two
Continued from Part One –
C. The support of the missionary sent out by the church.
1. In Fellowship
2. In Finances
Part Two –
3. In Faith Through the church giving through the grace of God.
The Encouragement in giving to support and encourage the churches
in the ministry. 2 Corinthians 8:1 – 9:15
a. The Example of through grace is often called Faith Promise giving.
2 Corinthians 8:1-5 Moreover, brethren, we do you to wit of the grace of God bestowed on the churches of Macedonia; How that in a great trial of affliction the abundance of their joy and their deep poverty abounded unto the riches of their liberality. For to their power, I bear record, yea, and beyond their power they were willing of themselves; Praying us with much intreaty that we would receive the gift, and take upon us the fellowship of the ministering to the saints. And this they did, not as we hoped, but first gave their own selves to the Lord, and unto us by the will of God.
1). The condition of the churches.
2 Corinthians 8:2a “How that in a great trial of affliction…”
a). They were planted in adversity.
Acts 17:4-5 And some of them believed, and consorted with Paul and Silas; and of the devout Greeks a great multitude, and of the chief women not a few. But the Jews which believed not, moved with envy, took unto them certain lewd fellows of the baser sort, and gathered a company, and set all the city on an uproar, and assaulted the house of Jason, and sought to bring them out to the people.
b). They produced faith in affliction.
1 Thessalonians 1:5-7 For our gospel came not unto you in word only, but also in power, and in the Holy Ghost, and in much assurance; as ye know what manner of men we were among you for your sake. And ye became followers of us, and of the Lord, having received the word in much affliction, with joy of the Holy Ghost: So that ye were ensamples to all that believe in Macedonia and Achaia.
c). They prospered in the grace of God.
1 Thessalonians 3:2-6 And sent Timotheus, our brother, and minister of God, and our fellowlabourer in the gospel of Christ, to establish you, and to comfort you concerning your faith: That no man should be moved by these afflictions: for yourselves know that we are appointed thereunto. For verily, when we were with you, we told you before that we should suffer tribulation; even as it came to pass, and ye know. For this cause, when I could no longer forbear, I sent to know your faith, lest by some means the tempter have tempted you, and our labour be in vain. But now when Timotheus came from you unto us, and brought us good tidings of your faith and charity, and that ye have good remembrance of us always, desiring greatly to see us, as we also to see you:
2). The conviction of the churches to give.
2 Corinthians 8:2-3 How that in a great trial of affliction the abundance of their joy and their deep poverty abounded unto the riches of their liberality. For to their power, I bear record, yea, and beyond their power they were willing of themselves;
a). They were encouraged in spite of their poverty.
b). They were encouraged in spite of their position in the
community – looked down on.
c). They were encouraged by the grace of God in their lives!
Based on this encouragement, they made their demand and put forth –
3). The claim of the churches as to their right to give.
2 Corinthians 8: “… Praying us with much entreaty that we would receive
the gift…”
“Who are you to tell us that we cannot take part in this fellowship of ministry”!
4). The consecration of the churches unto the Lord.
2 Corinthians 8:5 And this they did, not as we hoped, but first gave their own selves to the Lord, and unto us by the will of God.
a). Dedicated to the Lord.
Romans 12:1 I beseech you therefore, brethren, by the mercies of God, that ye present your bodies a living sacrifice, holy, acceptable unto God, which is your reasonable service.
b). Directed by His Word.
Romans 12:2 And be not conformed to this world: but be ye transformed by the renewing of your mind, that ye may prove what is that good, and acceptable, and perfect, will of God.
(1). Convinced of the principle of giving.
James 2:15-17 If a brother or sister be naked, and destitute of daily food, And one of you say unto them, Depart in peace, be ye warmed and filled; notwithstanding ye give them not those things which are needful to the body; what doth it profit? Even so faith, if it hath not works, is dead, being alone.
(2). Committed to the principle of providing.
God ordained that man would work for his provisions. Even when God supernaturally provided the Manna in the wilderness, men had to go forth each day and collect it, enough only for each day! The people in these churches trusted the Lord in giving what they had, and in seeking more from the Lord to give, determining to work each day for the provision of God. They asked God to bless the work of their hands and provide abundantly. Remember God’s promise of provision in –
Leviticus 25:19-22 And the land shall yield her fruit, and ye shall eat your fill, and dwell therein in safety. And if ye shall say, What shall we eat the seventh year? behold, we shall not sow, nor gather in our increase: Then I will command my blessing upon you in the sixth year, and it shall bring forth fruit for three years. And ye shall sow the eighth year, and eat yet of old fruit until the ninth year; until her fruits come in ye shall eat of the old store.
They trusted God to bless their work by being obedient to Him. They would not just sit back and expect God to pick up the check. They would enter into the fields and serve Him through their labour. The Macedonian churches had learned this principle and trusted God accordingly. They gave through the grace of God.
The grace of God is not to be presumed upon, it is to be planned for, seeking the leadership of God.
Philippians 4:19 But my God shall supply all your need according to his riches in glory by Christ Jesus.
5). The conclusion to be drawn from their participation.
2 Corinthians 8:1 Moreover, brethren, we do you to wit of the grace of God bestowed on the churches of Macedonia;
a). God’s grace is sufficient for all of their needs and for their
desires to fellowship in the work of the Lord.
b). God’s grace is often unused through lack of faith.
The Macedonian churches took advantage of the wonderful grace of God and did not want to leave anything behind.
The Word of God instructs believers that the church is God’s authority to declare His Word to the world. Each church is responsible to support God’s plan financially through tithes, offerings, and giving by grace through the leadership and provision of the Lord.
VII. Preparation for the Field
A. The Place
1. General information on the country you will be ministering in.
2. Visas
Contact the Immigration Department of the country you will be
ministering in.
3. Finances
Research – the Banking system.
– Transferring money
– the exchange rates
– the income tax requirements – USA and the Country of
ministry.
B. The People
1. Culture
Population – People groups
Religions
Ethics and etiquette
Food
2. Language
Official languages
Language schools
Practicality of language learning in another country prior to arrival
in country of ministry.
3. Supplies
Determine what will be necessary to live in the community of
those you are ministering to –
Local power source (110/240) power point plug configuration
Telephone
Pure drinking water source (very important)
Medicine and medical facilities
C. The Personal necessities
Acts 21:15 And after those days we took up our carriages, and went up to Jerusalem.
Information received from local newspapers.
1. Accommodations
a. Information received from residents in the area.
b. Information received from expat writings and/US Embassy
sources.
c. Information received from personal visit.
2. Transport
a. Best vehicle for local conditions.
b. Best vehicle for ministry.
c. Vehicle insurance
3. Education
a. National schools
b. International schools
c. Home school.
1). School material.
2). School room
3). School schedule
4. Personal items
a. Clothing
b. Furniture
D. The Practical Ministry Necessities
1. Study supplies including computer and printers
2. Library
3. Adult, youth, and children study supplies
4. Bible Institute material
VI. The Perpetuity of Missions
The Commission will continue until Jesus comes for His saints.
Matthew 28:19-20 Go ye therefore, and teach all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Ghost: Teaching them to observe all things whatsoever I have commanded you: and, lo, I am with you alway, even unto the end of the world. Amen.
1 Thessalonians 4:13-18 But I would not have you to be ignorant, brethren, concerning them which are asleep, that ye sorrow not, even as others which have no hope. For if we believe that Jesus died and rose again, even so them also which sleep in Jesus will God bring with him. For this we say unto you by the word of the Lord, that we which are alive and remain unto the coming of the Lord shall not prevent them which are asleep. For the Lord himself shall descend from heaven with a shout, with the voice of the archangel, and with the trump of God: and the dead in Christ shall rise first: Then we which are alive and remain shall be caught up together with them in the clouds, to meet the Lord in the air: and so shall we ever be with the Lord. Wherefore comfort one another with these words.
The Commission will not continue forever, but the results will!
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