Essential Theology for Troubling Times

The Mission of the church

The Great Commission (cf. Matthew 28:19-20) given by Jesus Himself, is still the mission of the church - past, present, and future.  We are to “Go” and proclaim the good news of salvation - “for the Son of man has come to seek and to save that which was lost.” (Luke 19:10)

When an individual accepts and receives the call of salvation by faith, we must help them become nourished and trained, not just in obedience of water baptism, but that they become fully committed followers of Christ, and “Go” themselves to make disciples.

Statistics tell us that 70% of Americans don’t exercise, 30% that do, only 10% exercise alone.  Why?  Because we all need accountability and encouragement.  This is not only a physical reality but a spiritual reality as well.

A disciple (mathetes), is simply a learner and follower of Christ (lifelong).

Discipleship is not a program, it’s a way of life.  Dietrich Bonhoeffer said, “Christianity without discipleship is always Christianity without Christ.”

The church must do a better job of making disciples, coming along side new believers via teaching, instructing, demonstrating and encouragement.

The mission of the church is also to demonstrate the compassion of Jesus by coming along side others via assisting in their emotional and physical needs.  One well said quote, “people do not care about what you know until they know you care.”  The bible defined biblical Christianity as, “pure and undefiled religion before God and the Father is this: to visit orphans and widows in their trouble, and to keep oneself unspotted from the world.” (James 1:27)

The world around us must not only hear the gospel message, but the world must see a living example of that message being lived out by Christ’s body - the church!

rodney