Every Member - A Missionary

(This is a redo of the post I made last Sunday night that got deleted. Long story - don't ask. Just read, if you didn't see the first one.)

Last Sunday I began a series of messages called: Every Member – A Missionary. Everyone is born with the desire to live a life of significance and meaning. As Christians we believe that we can find this significance and meaning only in and through God. This restless pursuit for worth and value is filled when we find true rest in God and our reason for being through Him. Many, no doubt, have found it and Acts 13:36 names one of them, “For when David had served God’s purpose in his own generation, he fell asleep;”

So what is God’s purpose for us? Let’s find out what He is up to and join with Him in His work. A careful reading of Scripture reveals that God was and is on a mission of reconciliation and redemption. Some of the key scriptures are: Genesis 12:2-3; Exodus 19:6; Isaiah 43:10; 2 Corinthians 5:20; Galatians 3:6-9; and 1 Peter 2:9.

Once we have received this message of reconciliation ourselves, then our purpose (which will give us significance and worth) is to be messengers (missionaries) of reconciliation to the rest of the world. What does it mean to become a missionary?

Becoming a missionary is something I am more than something I do. But because of who I am, there are certain things I will or will not do.

Becoming a missionary gives me the opportunity to partner with God in His mission of bringing salvation to all mankind and restoring His kingdom on earth.

Becoming a missionary means that I am learning how to transform my daily interactions with others into opportunities to plant gospel seeds into their lives.

Becoming a missionary is a way of life. It can’t be reduced to special events organized by the church or overseas “missions” work.

Last Sunday I challenged the congregation to take the first step to becoming a missionary: submit to be a servant of the King of Kings and Lord of Lords.

In taking this first step they were asked to commit to:

1) Pray that God will gives you eyes to see others as He sees them by going to a mall, fast food restaurant, or park and pray, “Lord, help me to see what you see.” Then listen for the voice of God.

2) Begin to work at creating opportunities to engage others in spiritual conversations by asking them if you may pray for them and for specific ways to pray for them.

Are you ready to make this first step toward missionary service?