Local versus global
First of all, there is no such thing as local versus global in kingdom work. When we’re talking about the church being missional, the default mindset should be yes to all things that the Holy Spirit is leading you into. With that as our foundation, another question enters the picture: what should a local church focus on in their missional calling? Sorry to disappoint you, but I don’t know. That is between the church and the Lord. What I do believe is that we are all ambassadors of Christ serving his kingdom purposes!
Growing up, the statement I often heard was that if someone wanted to respond to a cross-cultural or global missions call, the expectation was that they should already be engaged in sharing their faith or discipling someone at home. Why would you expect to do something overseas if you weren’t doing it at home?
Though the full answer is more nuanced, there is a bit of truth in this assertion. I wouldn’t expect my mechanic not to have had training or hands-on practice before working on my car. So why would we send workers overseas to evangelize and church plant if they haven’t been doing work here?
As most of you know, I am passionate about global missions. My wife Sandy and I have served overseas both before and after we were married. We have had the tremendous privilege of building relationships with people engaging in spiritual conversations, sharing the gospel message, and nurturing people’s faith. This is something that we believe God has called us to in Scripture and is just part of our calling as believers.
We have continued to do this for the past two decades since settling into our neighbourhood in Steinbach. We have had the joy of journeying with numerous people on our street, in the community around us, Sandy at her work, and wherever the Lord opens doors. It is an incredible joy to practice what we preach. It is a blessing to see people respond. It is a delight to witness lives change.
So, is the Lord calling you as a church to local missions? Absolutely yes! Is he calling you to global missions? Absolutely yes! The great thing is that they are not in competition with each other. They are both God’s call. Depending on what spiritual gifts the Spirit has given you individually, or the opportunities he’s given your church family collectively, the decision is yours to make: step out in obedience or remain seated on the sidelines.
He’s anointed all of us to shine the light of Christ wherever we are. As you spend time in prayer and nurture your relationship with Jesus, he will guide you into new friendships that will be a blessing to you and them, and will bring honour to God our Saviour.
Photo credit: Greg Rosenke on Unsplash
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