From Mission Field to Mission Force: Embracing Our Calling
Summary
### Summary
Today, we explored the profound calling to transition from being a mission field to becoming a mission force. This transformation is rooted in the Abrahamic covenant, where God blesses us so that we can be a blessing to others. Reflecting on the Presence Conference, we were reminded of the tangible sense of God's presence and the importance of maintaining a Christ-centered, God-honoring culture. The focus on discipleship and the power of God is crucial, as Jesus' commission to make disciples involves not just teaching but also breaking demonic strongholds and healing the sick.
We delved into the significance of consistent, foundational practices in discipleship, likened to the "same old boring strokes" in tennis. These practices—engaging the lost, establishing biblical foundations, equipping believers, and empowering disciples—create spiritual momentum and advance God's kingdom. Our journey in the Philippines exemplified this, where a short mission trip turned into decades of church planting and leadership development, often under challenging circumstances.
The concept of moving from a mission field to a mission force was further illustrated by the Filipino church's evolution. Initially a mission field, it has now become a mission force, sending missionaries to over 40 nations. This shift requires apostolic preaching, prayer, and pastoral leadership, emphasizing outward mission and geographic expansion.
We also discussed the critical transition from founder leadership to the next generation. This involves preparing emerging leaders, making the organization leadable by non-founders, and ensuring the founding generation finishes strong. The importance of flexible structures and clear, non-negotiable values was highlighted to maintain the mission and vision through transitions.
Finally, storytelling and repetition were emphasized as vital for preserving the culture and values of the church. By sharing stories of God's provision and faithfulness, we keep the mission alive for future generations. Our ultimate goal is to build a church that the next generation will love, ensuring they experience the supernatural presence of God and continue the mission with passion and dedication.
### Key Takeaways
1. From Mission Field to Mission Force: Embrace the Abrahamic covenant by recognizing that God's blessings are meant to be shared. Transitioning from a mission field to a mission force involves actively giving and serving others, fulfilling the call to be a blessing to the nations. This shift requires a mindset change from receiving to giving, embodying the mission of spreading the gospel. [29:39]
2. Foundational Practices in Discipleship: Just as consistent, fundamental strokes are crucial in tennis, so are the foundational practices in discipleship. Engaging the lost, establishing biblical foundations, equipping believers, and empowering disciples are essential for creating spiritual momentum and advancing God's kingdom. These practices ensure that discipleship is effective and sustainable. [10:49]
3. Apostolic Leadership: Effective mission work requires apostolic preaching, prayer, and pastoral leadership. This involves a focus on outward mission, geographic expansion, and a commitment to making disciples of all nations. Apostolic leaders think strategically about how to extend the reach of the gospel, whether it's to the next neighborhood or the next nation. [27:26]
4. Leadership Transition: Successfully transitioning from founder leadership to the next generation is critical for the sustainability of any ministry. This involves preparing emerging leaders, making the organization leadable by non-founders, and ensuring the founding generation finishes strong. Clear, non-negotiable values and flexible structures are essential to maintain the mission and vision through transitions. [36:23]
5. The Power of Storytelling: Repetition and storytelling are vital for preserving the culture and values of the church. By sharing stories of God's provision and faithfulness, we keep the mission alive for future generations. These stories serve as a reminder of God's work and inspire the next generation to continue the mission with passion and dedication. [49:12]
### YouTube Chapters
[0:00] - Welcome
[01:47] - Reflecting on the Presence Conference
[02:39] - Discipleship and the Power of God
[05:25] - Apostolic Gathering in Singapore
[06:04] - The Call to Make Disciples
[07:07] - Writing the Book on Church Mission
[09:14] - The Importance of Foundational Practices
[10:49] - Same Old Boring Strokes in Discipleship
[14:19] - Accidental Church Planting in the Philippines
[16:46] - Empowering Local Leaders
[18:03] - Early Days in Manila
[19:23] - 40 Years of Ministry in the Philippines
[20:10] - Planting Churches Amidst Political Turmoil
[21:11] - The Human Heart and the Gospel
[21:56] - Experiencing God's Presence
[23:06] - The Cloud of God's Presence
[24:50] - From Mission Field to Mission Force
[26:11] - Filipino Missionaries in 40 Nations
[27:26] - Apostolic Preaching and Prayer
[28:44] - Apostolic Pastors and Geographic Expansion
[29:39] - Embracing the Abrahamic Covenant
[31:23] - Returning to School for Leadership Transition
[33:23] - Post-Founder Sustainability
[34:11] - Preparing Emerging Leaders
[35:05] - The Importance of Clear Values
[36:23] - Preparing the Organization for New Leadership
[36:53] - Founders Finishing Strong
[37:55] - Financial Preparation for Transition
[38:23] - Removing Team Members for New Leadership
[39:11] - Matching Gift Mix with Leadership Needs
[39:46] - Developing a Leadership Pipeline
[41:16] - Homegrown Leaders vs. Imports
[42:14] - Flexible Structures in Ministry
[42:57] - Defining Non-Negotiables
[45:12] - Maintaining Mission and Vision
[46:07] - Clear Statements of Faith
[49:12] - The Power of Storytelling
[49:51] - Grandfather Stories and Generosity
[50:11] - Keeping Culture Alive Through Stories
[52:25] - Mentoring the Next Generation
[53:50] - Building a Church for the Next Generation
Study Guide
### Bible Reading
1. Genesis 12:2-3 (NIV): "I will make you into a great nation, and I will bless you; I will make your name great, and you will be a blessing. I will bless those who bless you, and whoever curses you I will curse; and all peoples on earth will be blessed through you."
2. Matthew 28:19-20 (NIV): "Therefore go and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit, and teaching them to obey everything I have commanded you. And surely I am with you always, to the very end of the age."
3. 2 Timothy 2:2 (NIV): "And the things you have heard me say in the presence of many witnesses entrust to reliable people who will also be qualified to teach others."
### Observation Questions
1. What does the Abrahamic covenant in Genesis 12:2-3 promise, and what is its purpose?
2. According to Matthew 28:19-20, what are the key components of Jesus' Great Commission?
3. In the sermon, what foundational practices in discipleship are likened to the "same old boring strokes" in tennis? [10:49]
4. How did the Filipino church transition from being a mission field to a mission force, as described in the sermon? [24:50]
### Interpretation Questions
1. How does the Abrahamic covenant in Genesis 12:2-3 relate to the idea of moving from a mission field to a mission force?
2. What does it mean to "make disciples of all nations" in the context of Matthew 28:19-20, and how does this align with the sermon’s emphasis on discipleship and the power of God? [02:39]
3. How can the principles in 2 Timothy 2:2 be applied to ensure a successful leadership transition within a church or ministry? [36:23]
4. Why is storytelling and repetition important for preserving the culture and values of the church, according to the sermon? [49:12]
### Application Questions
1. Reflecting on the Abrahamic covenant, how can you personally embrace the mindset of being a blessing to others in your daily life? [29:39]
2. What are some practical ways you can engage in the foundational practices of discipleship (engaging the lost, establishing biblical foundations, equipping believers, and empowering disciples) in your community? [10:49]
3. How can you contribute to the outward mission and geographic expansion of your church, whether locally or globally? [27:26]
4. If you are in a leadership position, what steps can you take to prepare emerging leaders and ensure a smooth transition for the next generation? [36:23]
5. Think of a story of God's provision or faithfulness in your life. How can you share this story to inspire and encourage others in your church community? [49:12]
6. How can you help maintain a Christ-centered, God-honoring culture in your church, especially during times of transition? [02:39]
7. Identify one specific way you can support the mission of making disciples in your church. How will you take action on this in the coming week? [07:07]
Devotional
Day 1: Embracing the Abrahamic Covenant
God's blessings are meant to be shared, and this is a central theme of the Abrahamic covenant. As believers, we are called to transition from being a mission field to becoming a mission force. This means actively giving and serving others, fulfilling the call to be a blessing to the nations. This shift requires a mindset change from receiving to giving, embodying the mission of spreading the gospel. By embracing this covenant, we recognize that our blessings are not just for our benefit but are meant to be shared with others to advance God's kingdom. [29:39]
Genesis 12:2-3 (ESV): "And I will make of you a great nation, and I will bless you and make your name great, so that you will be a blessing. I will bless those who bless you, and him who dishonors you I will curse, and in you all the families of the earth shall be blessed."
Reflection: Think of a specific way you can share your blessings with someone in need this week. How can you embody the Abrahamic covenant in your daily life?
Day 2: Foundational Practices in Discipleship
Just as consistent, fundamental strokes are crucial in tennis, so are the foundational practices in discipleship. Engaging the lost, establishing biblical foundations, equipping believers, and empowering disciples are essential for creating spiritual momentum and advancing God's kingdom. These practices ensure that discipleship is effective and sustainable. By focusing on these foundational elements, we can build a strong and resilient faith community that is capable of withstanding challenges and growing in spiritual maturity. [10:49]
2 Timothy 2:2 (ESV): "And what you have heard from me in the presence of many witnesses entrust to faithful men, who will be able to teach others also."
Reflection: Identify one foundational practice in your spiritual life that needs more attention. How can you commit to strengthening this area in the coming week?
Day 3: Apostolic Leadership
Effective mission work requires apostolic preaching, prayer, and pastoral leadership. This involves a focus on outward mission, geographic expansion, and a commitment to making disciples of all nations. Apostolic leaders think strategically about how to extend the reach of the gospel, whether it's to the next neighborhood or the next nation. By embracing this form of leadership, we can ensure that our mission efforts are impactful and far-reaching, bringing the message of Christ to those who have yet to hear it. [27:26]
Acts 1:8 (ESV): "But you will receive power when the Holy Spirit has come upon you, and you will be my witnesses in Jerusalem and in all Judea and Samaria, and to the end of the earth."
Reflection: Consider your own role in the mission of the church. How can you contribute to the outward mission and geographic expansion of the gospel in your community or beyond?
Day 4: Leadership Transition
Successfully transitioning from founder leadership to the next generation is critical for the sustainability of any ministry. This involves preparing emerging leaders, making the organization leadable by non-founders, and ensuring the founding generation finishes strong. Clear, non-negotiable values and flexible structures are essential to maintain the mission and vision through transitions. By focusing on these elements, we can ensure that the ministry remains vibrant and effective, even as leadership changes hands. [36:23]
Deuteronomy 31:7-8 (ESV): "Then Moses summoned Joshua and said to him in the sight of all Israel, 'Be strong and courageous, for you shall go with this people into the land that the Lord has sworn to their fathers to give them, and you shall put them in possession of it. It is the Lord who goes before you. He will be with you; he will not leave you or forsake you. Do not fear or be dismayed.'"
Reflection: Reflect on a leadership role you hold or aspire to hold. How can you prepare yourself and others for a smooth transition in leadership?
Day 5: The Power of Storytelling
Repetition and storytelling are vital for preserving the culture and values of the church. By sharing stories of God's provision and faithfulness, we keep the mission alive for future generations. These stories serve as a reminder of God's work and inspire the next generation to continue the mission with passion and dedication. By consistently sharing these narratives, we can ensure that the church's culture and values are passed down and remain strong. [49:12]
Psalm 78:4 (ESV): "We will not hide them from their children, but tell to the coming generation the glorious deeds of the Lord, and his might, and the wonders that he has done."
Reflection: Think of a story of God's faithfulness in your life. How can you share this story with someone to inspire and encourage them in their faith journey?
Quotes
### Quotes for Outreach
1. "We're here to become a mission force and not just be a mission field for the rest of our lives, where we're always receiving and always taking, but when the mission idea is what we've received, now we're freely giving. It's the Abrahamic covenant of, I'm going to bless you. I'm going to bless you beyond what you could ever imagine, but there's a reason. So you can be a blessing to the nations." [29:39] (60 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
2. "We can change political structures, but if we don't change the human heart with the gospel of Jesus. Then there's no real change. And so that's, that's been, I guess the, I look back and go, yeah, it was a tough circumstance, but the perfect storm for a church plant." [21:11] (19 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
3. "I think what God's saying, at least to me and the movement I'm in and the churches that I'm a part of is the same thing. It's not just unique to 1999. I said, I think it's, he's saying the same thing he said in, in the year 99, the same thing he said in the year 999. And, um, and it's go make disciples of all nations." [06:04] (21 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
4. "I love that you're starting the year with that focus. Yeah. And I think it's, um, I know there are unique, peculiar words for different times and people and moments and places. Um, I leave that more to the prophetic people, but for me, it's always go make disciples of all nations." [07:07] (66 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
5. "I think I was wired to think, how do we go from a mission field to a mission force? And I, and in my mind, there are at least three components of that. It's apostolic preaching. And that's what I've appreciated about you and your ministry is you've always had this. It's a sense of mission." [27:26] (19 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
### Quotes for Members
1. "For us, that has always been engage the loss with the gospel, establish biblical foundations, equip every believer to do the same. ministry and empower every disciple to make disciples, the four E's, engage, establish, equip, empower, engage, that's the same old boring strokes, in tennis, it was, the stroke was up, down, up, to create topspin, for discipleship, it was engage the loss with the gospel, establish biblical foundations, equip people to do ministry, empower disciples to make disciples, that is what creates momentum in the spirit, and that's what advances." [10:49] (71 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
2. "I think there's apostolic preaching, apostolic, uh, prayer that, that, that goes. And then I think an important thing is apostolic pastors. Yeah. And, and again, Joe, I it's, it's really, I'm describing what you, you are and how you built. And there are, there are pastors who, um, I'm not saying there are apostles, but there's an apostolic way of thinking." [28:44] (22 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
3. "It's about preparing the next emerging leaders to lead the organization, preparing the organization to be led by non-founders. And boy, that's a lot of work. There's a lot to that. And as founders and you founded plenty of things, we have to be the ones that make the tough decisions. Yeah. To get this leadable. A lot of times we build things that are unleadable." [36:23] (23 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
4. "We need to bring clarity to what is non-negotiable and what can the next generation change. Yeah. I have seen transitions happen when that wasn't clear, and a few years later, it's unrecognizable. Yeah. The mission, the vision... it's gone. But yet, can this... And it's different for everyone. Yeah. But what is bedrock?" [42:14] (28 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
5. "We want to build the church that the next generation will love. Yeah. And so, we usually were doing it in church in ways that we didn't like. Yeah. We preferred something else, but they, we're building it, we're always building a platform for the next generation, not for ours." [53:50] (15 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
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