Most of what the New Testament has to say about missionary methods is in the form of example rather than direct
command. Using the New Testament church as a model, it provides direction for us today.
The task
Christians are commanded:
- to go into the world and communicate the message of Christ (Matt. 28:19; Mark 8:34-35; Luke 24:47-49; John 20:
21; Acts 1:8); to pray for missions related activities (Matt. 9:38; Roms. 15:30-32; EPS. 6:18-20; Cols. 4:2-4; 2 These.
3:1-2); and to give in support of fellow workers (Gals. 6:6; 1 Cars. 9:7-14) and others in need (Gals. 6:9-10; Hebs.
13:16).
The workers
Every Christian is exhorted:
- to respond to the command of the Lord Jesus Christ and serve Him in one of a myriad of ways as a living
member of His body (Matt. 9:36-38; Mark 8:34-35; Luke 9:23-24; John 4:35-38; Acts 1:8; Romans 12:1-13; 1 Cors.
3:8-14; Eph. 4:11-16; Phil. 1:1-5; Col. 1:9-10; 1 Thess. 1:6-8).
Furthermore, He has provided a diversity of gifts to accomplish His purposes for the Church. Other than for elders
and deacons, no one is given ecclesiastical status. No one is preferred above another.
The work
- Being fully aware that the goal is to proclaim the gospel of our Lord Jesus Christ, every imaginable form of
work may be required.
- It is characterised by descriptions given to Christians. i.e. Members, ambassadors, workers, stewards, fellow-
helpers (Romans 12:5; 2 Cors. 5:20;2 Cors. 6:1; Phil. 4:3; 1 Peter 4:10).
- It is accomplished by the Holy Spirit through the gifts given to the Church.(Roms. 12:1-8; 1 Cors. 12:27-31; Eph.
4:4-16). Examples of Christian work abound.
Commendation
Within the broad mandate given to all Christians, some assignments require special recognition. This may be due to the
nature and scope of the work; its location; or qualifications required. In such cases, the elders are to be actively involved in
this assessment. Ultimately this will lead to commendation of the worker including, if appropriate, a letter of
commendation (Acts 13:2-3; Acts 15:22-40). Commendation of a worker involves:
- recognition of the call of God (Acts 13:2);
- some understanding of the work to be done (Acts 13:1; 14:26);
- a declaration of fellowship and co-operation with the worker
(Acts 13:3; 14:26); and
- a continuing interest in the worker and the work (Acts 14:27; 15:40).
New Testament examples indicate that the local assembly commended (literally, "handed over") the workers to the grace
of God for the work they were to do (Acts 14:26) and the Holy Spirit directed them as to the sphere of their ministry (e.g.
Acts 16:9-10; 2 Cors. 2:12). A measure of indirect control was exercised by the local church in that they were informed of
the work being done (Acts 14:27) and again commended the workers (Acts 15:40).
Commended workers were to be supported by those who benefited from their
ministry (Gals. 6:6; 1 Cors. 9:7-14). On occasions support of this nature was
gratefully accepted (2 Cors. 11:8-9; Phil. 4:15). On other occasions the worker chose to work with his own hands to
provide for his needs, lest he be accused of self interest or be a burden to the believers (2 Cors. 11:8-9; 1 Thess. 2:9).
There was no appeal for funds for personal needs or activities, but there were requests for funds to assist poor believers
(1 Cors. 16:3; 2 Cors. 8-9).
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[Courtesy: MSC]
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