THE TEACHING
The mission of the Church flows from the authority of Jesus. Before ascending, the risen Lord declares that all authority in heaven and on earth belongs to Him. On that basis He commands His disciples to make disciples of all nations, baptizing and teaching them to obey everything He commanded. Mission is not a side project for a few unusually courageous Christians. It belongs to the identity of the whole Church.
Jesus promises the Holy Spirit so that His followers will receive power to be His witnesses from Jerusalem to the ends of the earth. The Spirit does not empower the Church for self-display. He equips believers to testify to Jesus, serve others, cross barriers, and form communities of disciples. The book of Acts shows the Gospel moving across cultures and boundaries through preaching, prayer, generosity, suffering, and the guidance of the Spirit.
Making disciples involves more than inviting people to a service or gaining a decision. It means proclaiming Christ, baptizing believers into the name of the Father, Son, and Holy Spirit, and teaching them to obey Jesus. Discipleship requires patient formation and faithful community.
The nations mission begins wherever God has placed us: among family, neighbours, coworkers, newcomers, and people overlooked by society. It also reaches beyond our immediate setting through prayer, giving, sending, and cross-cultural partnership. A sent people depend on God, learn the language of those they serve, and honor the dignity of every person.
CANA RESPONSE
Pray for one person who does not yet follow Jesus. Look for a concrete way to serve and a natural opportunity to speak about the hope you have in Christ.
REFLECT
- What authority supports the Church’s mission?
- What does it mean to make disciples, not simply converts?
- Where is God sending you in your everyday life?
CLOSING PRAYER
Risen Lord, send me in the power of Your Spirit. Give me love for people, courage to speak the Gospel, and patience to make disciples who obey Your teaching. Amen.