Carrying Others to Christ: The Missionary Call
Summary
Good morning, church. Today, I want to share with you the profound calling of being a missionary, or as I like to call it, a "bed carrier." This term comes from the story in Mark chapter 2, where friends carried a paralyzed man to Jesus, overcoming obstacles to ensure he met the Savior. This story is a powerful metaphor for our mission as Christians: to bring people to Jesus or take Jesus to the people.
In my journey, I've witnessed God moving people from closed countries to places like Europe, where they can hear the gospel for the first time. This is a divine opportunity for us to be the first to introduce them to Jesus. The essence of being a missionary is rooted in love, collaboration, and a willingness to do whatever it takes to bring others to Christ.
Firstly, love is the foundation. We must genuinely love those we are called to serve, even if it challenges our prejudices or past experiences. I shared my personal struggle with loving those I was taught to see as enemies, and how God transformed my heart to love and serve them.
Secondly, collaboration is crucial. Just as it took four friends to carry one man to Jesus, we need each other to fulfill God's mission. The Great Commission was given to the church, not individuals, emphasizing the need for unity and diversity within the body of Christ.
Lastly, we must be willing to step out of our comfort zones and do whatever it takes to bring others to Jesus. This might mean trying unconventional methods or facing criticism, but the urgency of the mission compels us to act.
I encourage you to reflect on your role in God's mission. Whether through prayer, giving, or going, each of us has a part to play. Let us be inspired by the story of Boniface, who boldly challenged the beliefs of a town to bring them to Christ. Are you willing to do whatever it takes to carry others to Jesus?
Key Takeaways:
- Love as the Foundation: True missionary work begins with a heart full of love for those we are called to serve. This love must transcend cultural and personal prejudices, as demonstrated by my journey from harboring hatred to embracing those I once saw as enemies. Love is not just a feeling but a commitment to act in the best interest of others, even when it challenges us. [52:37]
- The Power of Collaboration: The mission of God is a collective endeavor, requiring the unity and diversity of the church. Just as it took four friends to bring one man to Jesus, we need each other to fulfill the Great Commission. This interdependence is by design, as each member of the body of Christ brings unique gifts and perspectives. [58:33]
- Willingness to Do Whatever It Takes: Being a missionary means being ready to step out of comfort zones and try new methods to reach people for Christ. This might involve unconventional approaches or facing criticism, but the urgency of the mission compels us to act. The story of Boniface reminds us that bold actions can lead to transformative change. [01:01:49]
- Understanding Spiritual Paralysis: The story of the paralyzed man in Mark 2 highlights the importance of addressing spiritual needs first. Jesus prioritized the forgiveness of sins, showing that spiritual healing is paramount. As missionaries, we must recognize that many around us are spiritually paralyzed and need to be brought to Jesus for true healing. [47:36]
- The Privilege of Participation: God invites us to join Him in His mission, not because He needs us, but as a privilege. This participation requires us to examine our hearts, understand our gifts, and work together to bring others to Christ. The Holy Spirit empowers us to see the urgency and act with courage and compassion. [01:09:16]
Youtube Chapters:
- [00:00] - Welcome
- [41:04] - Introduction to Missionary Work
- [43:16] - The Story of Brotus
- [45:18] - Jesus' Compassion and Healing
- [47:36] - Spiritual Healing First
- [49:56] - Becoming a Bed Carrier
- [52:37] - Love as the Foundation
- [54:52] - Biblical Examples of Missionary Work
- [56:30] - Heart Attitude and Compassion
- [58:33] - The Power of Collaboration
- [01:01:49] - Willingness to Do Whatever It Takes
- [01:03:52] - Unconventional Methods in Ministry
- [01:06:41] - The Story of Boniface
- [01:09:16] - The Privilege of Participation
- [01:11:00] - Closing Prayer and Reflection
Study Guide
Bible Study Discussion Guide
Bible Reading:
- Mark 2:1-12
- Jonah 1:1-3
- Luke 9:51-56
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Observation Questions:
1. In the story from Mark 2, what obstacles did the friends of the paralyzed man face, and how did they overcome them to bring their friend to Jesus? [43:16]
2. How did Jesus prioritize the needs of the paralyzed man in Mark 2, and what does this reveal about His understanding of true healing? [45:18]
3. What was Jonah's initial reaction to God's command to go to Nineveh, and how does this reflect his heart attitude towards the people of Nineveh? [52:37]
4. How did the disciples react to the Samaritans' rejection of Jesus in Luke 9, and what was Jesus' response to their suggestion? [54:52]
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Interpretation Questions:
1. What does the story of the paralyzed man in Mark 2 teach about the importance of spiritual healing compared to physical healing? How might this apply to our understanding of mission work? [47:36]
2. How does Jonah's reluctance to go to Nineveh highlight the challenges of loving those we are called to serve, and what can we learn from his story about overcoming personal prejudices? [52:37]
3. In what ways does the reaction of the disciples in Luke 9 demonstrate a misunderstanding of Jesus' mission, and how can this inform our approach to those who reject the gospel? [54:52]
4. How does the concept of being a "bed carrier" challenge traditional views of missionary work, and what implications does this have for how we engage in God's mission today? [49:56]
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Application Questions:
1. Reflect on a time when you felt called to step out of your comfort zone to help someone. What was the outcome, and how did it impact your faith journey? [01:01:49]
2. Identify a group or individual in your life that you find difficult to love. What steps can you take to overcome any prejudices and show genuine love and compassion? [52:37]
3. Collaboration is key in fulfilling God's mission. How can you actively seek opportunities to work with others in your church or community to bring people to Jesus? [58:33]
4. Consider the unconventional methods used by the friends in Mark 2 and Boniface in the sermon. What creative or unconventional approach might you take to share the gospel with someone in your life? [01:06:41]
5. How can you ensure that your actions and attitudes align with Jesus' example of compassion and love, especially towards those who may reject or oppose your beliefs? [54:52]
6. Reflect on the idea of spiritual paralysis. Are there areas in your life where you feel spiritually paralyzed? What steps can you take to seek healing and growth in those areas? [47:36]
7. The sermon emphasized the privilege of participating in God's mission. How can you actively engage in this mission through prayer, giving, or going, and what specific actions will you take this week? [01:09:16]
Devotional
Day 1: Love Transcends Prejudices
True missionary work begins with a heart full of love for those we are called to serve. This love must transcend cultural and personal prejudices, as demonstrated by the journey from harboring hatred to embracing those once seen as enemies. Love is not just a feeling but a commitment to act in the best interest of others, even when it challenges us. This transformation of the heart is essential for anyone who seeks to bring others to Christ, as it reflects the unconditional love that Jesus has for all people. [52:37]
"Beloved, let us love one another, for love is from God, and whoever loves has been born of God and knows God. Anyone who does not love does not know God, because God is love." (1 John 4:7-8, ESV)
Reflection: Think of someone you struggle to love due to past experiences or prejudices. How can you begin to see them through the eyes of Christ today?
Day 2: Unity in Diversity
The mission of God is a collective endeavor, requiring the unity and diversity of the church. Just as it took four friends to bring one man to Jesus, we need each other to fulfill the Great Commission. This interdependence is by design, as each member of the body of Christ brings unique gifts and perspectives. Embracing this diversity within the church allows us to work together more effectively and reflect the fullness of God's kingdom. [58:33]
"For just as the body is one and has many members, and all the members of the body, though many, are one body, so it is with Christ." (1 Corinthians 12:12, ESV)
Reflection: Identify a gift or perspective you bring to your church community. How can you use it to foster unity and collaboration in your congregation?
Day 3: Boldness Beyond Comfort
Being a missionary means being ready to step out of comfort zones and try new methods to reach people for Christ. This might involve unconventional approaches or facing criticism, but the urgency of the mission compels us to act. The story of Boniface reminds us that bold actions can lead to transformative change. Are you willing to do whatever it takes to carry others to Jesus? [01:01:49]
"Have I not commanded you? Be strong and courageous. Do not be frightened, and do not be dismayed, for the Lord your God is with you wherever you go." (Joshua 1:9, ESV)
Reflection: What is one area where you feel God is calling you to step out in faith? What bold action can you take this week to respond to that call?
Day 4: Addressing Spiritual Paralysis
The story of the paralyzed man in Mark 2 highlights the importance of addressing spiritual needs first. Jesus prioritized the forgiveness of sins, showing that spiritual healing is paramount. As missionaries, we must recognize that many around us are spiritually paralyzed and need to be brought to Jesus for true healing. This requires discernment and a focus on the deeper spiritual issues that people face. [47:36]
"And when Jesus saw their faith, he said to the paralytic, 'Son, your sins are forgiven.'" (Mark 2:5, ESV)
Reflection: Consider someone in your life who may be spiritually paralyzed. How can you help bring them to Jesus for healing and forgiveness?
Day 5: The Privilege of Participation
God invites us to join Him in His mission, not because He needs us, but as a privilege. This participation requires us to examine our hearts, understand our gifts, and work together to bring others to Christ. The Holy Spirit empowers us to see the urgency and act with courage and compassion. Embracing this privilege means being open to the ways God wants to use us in His divine plan. [01:09:16]
"For we are God's fellow workers. You are God's field, God's building." (1 Corinthians 3:9, ESV)
Reflection: Reflect on the unique role you play in God's mission. How can you actively participate in His work this week, using the gifts and opportunities He has given you?
Quotes
I remember walking behind my friend Broros as he's heading home, and I started to think, you know, what would have happened if I never loved him, if I never cared for him? And I thought, you know what? He would have probably remained paralyzed. [00:46:42] (22 seconds)
And then it dawned on me that Jesus wanted him to be healed spiritually first. Jesus cares about him as a person, and he wanted him to be healed spiritually first. And all of a sudden, it's like my eyes were opened. [00:48:12] (18 seconds)
If I were to simplify missions, I would say it's about bringing people to Jesus or taking Jesus to the people. It's that simple. So I call them bed carriers, and I want to invite you this morning to be one of them. [00:49:43] (13 seconds)
So the first characteristic of bed carriers is they are people who love the ones they are carrying. They are people who love others. It might sound very obvious this morning. You say, duh, of course, you know, you have to love others. [00:50:08] (16 seconds)
And I had to come before the Lord on my knees and say, God, I cannot do this. If you want me to reach out to the people that you're calling me to reach out to, I want you to change my heart. And God began to do that in my life. [00:52:37] (15 seconds)
They're so committed that they're willing to do whatever it's going to take to bring others to Jesus. They're the kind of people who ask, don't ask themselves, hey, what can I do? But actually ask the right question, what needs to be done? We're ready to do it. [01:01:49] (15 seconds)
As one of my friends always said, as long as it's not illegal, immoral, unethical, or unbiblical, are you willing to try it? If the traditional methods are working, that's great. But if not, are you willing to do something maybe you're not comfortable doing, you haven't done before, if you know that it might bring other people to Jesus? [01:02:51] (18 seconds)
A geographical change is not going to give them hope. It's Jesus who's going to give them hope. A transformation of heart. A change of heart. And that's why we do what we do. Because we're committed to this. We know the only hope they have is through Jesus. [01:04:56] (14 seconds)
And thank you for giving us the great honor and privilege to be part of what you are doing here and around the world. We don't deserve this. You don't need us. Either you can do the work by yourself. But you give us this great privilege of joining you in what you are doing. So thank you for that. [01:10:12] (21 seconds)
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