Living a Mission-Oriented Life: Local to Global Impact

 

Summary

Today, I had the privilege of discussing the profound impact of living a mission-oriented life, both locally and globally, as inspired by Acts 1:8. We began by welcoming everyone, especially newcomers and those joining us online, emphasizing our commitment to global missions. This commitment is reflected in our routine of dedicating undesignated offerings to support our 230 global workers and their families, totaling 416 individuals.

In our panel discussion with Pastor Elliot, now our Global Care Pastor, and Pastor Michael Troutman, our Missional Life Pastor, we explored the transformative power of the gospel. Both pastors, with their rich backgrounds in mission work, shared insights into the integration of discipleship and missional living. This integration is crucial as we aim to raise more missionaries from our congregation who are accustomed to loving their communities and are ready to extend that love globally.

We delved into the scriptural basis for our mission, highlighting Acts 1:8, which commands us to be witnesses from our local communities to the ends of the earth. This passage not only guides our mission but also inspires us to see the global impact of local engagement. The discussion was enriched by stories of individuals whose lives have been dramatically changed by the gospel, illustrating the real-life application of our faith and the global reach of our mission efforts.

Furthermore, we addressed the practical aspects of living out this mission. We discussed the importance of saying "yes" to God's call, a commitment demonstrated by our church members who actively participate in global missions through giving and going. This led to the commissioning of two teams heading to Indonesia and the Ivory Coast, emphasizing our ongoing support and prayers for them.

As we concluded, I reminded the congregation of the power of the gospel to reconcile and transform lives. We are called to be Christ's ambassadors, carrying the message of reconciliation to the world. This mission is not just a distant ideal but a present reality that starts right here in our community and extends to the furthest reaches of the earth.

### Key Takeaways

1. The Integration of Local and Global Missions
The gospel compels us to love our neighbors both near and far. This integration of local and global missions is not just strategic but scriptural, as seen in Acts 1:8. By starting our mission in our local communities, we are better prepared to extend our reach globally, embodying the call to be witnesses everywhere. [22:20]

2. Transformation Through the Gospel
The gospel's power to transform lives is evident both in scripture and in our mission work. Stories of individuals changed by the gospel underscore its impact and the role of our church in fostering these transformations. This real-life change motivates us to continue our mission efforts, knowing the gospel can turn hearts towards God. [38:59]

3. Commitment to Mission
Saying "yes" to God's call involves a deep commitment, exemplified by our church members who support and engage in missions. This commitment is not just about going but also supporting through prayer and giving, integral aspects of our mission strategy. Our collective "yes" is powerful and necessary for the mission to thrive. [47:16]

4. Raising the Next Generation for Mission
Encouraging the next generation to engage in missions is crucial. By allowing them to experience God's call, we prepare them to take the gospel further than we could ourselves. This approach not only ensures the continuation of mission work but also honors God's call for their lives, making mission a legacy. [59:09]

5. The Role of the Church in Global Missions
Our church plays a pivotal role in global missions, not only by sending and supporting missionaries but also by being a community that prays and gives generously. This support system is vital for the success of missions and exemplifies the church's obedience to the Great Commission. [01:07:32]

### Youtube Chapters

- [0:00] - Welcome
- [21:00] - Introduction of Panel Discussion
- [22:20] - Discussion on Local and Global Missions
- [29:28] - Acknowledgment of Church Staff and Volunteers
- [38:59] - Testimonies of Transformation
- [47:16] - Commitment to Global Workers
- [59:09] - Encouraging the Next Generation
- [01:07:32] - Commissioning of Mission Teams
- [01:12:44] - Closing Remarks and Call to Action

Study Guide

### Bible Study Discussion Guide

#### Bible Reading
- Acts 1:8
- 2 Corinthians 5:18-20

#### Observation Questions
1. According to Acts 1:8, where are believers called to be witnesses? How does this passage outline the progression of their mission?
2. In the sermon, what reasons were given for integrating local and global missions? ([22:20])
3. How did the pastors describe the transformative power of the gospel in the lives of individuals? ([38:59])
4. What practical steps did the church take to support global missions, as mentioned in the sermon? ([47:16])

#### Interpretation Questions
1. What does it mean to be a witness "in Jerusalem, and in all Judea and Samaria, and to the ends of the earth" in today's context? How can this be applied to our local and global mission efforts? ([22:20])
2. How does the concept of reconciliation in 2 Corinthians 5:18-20 relate to the mission of the church as described in the sermon? ([01:12:44])
3. Why is it important for the church to raise the next generation for mission work, and how can this be practically achieved? ([59:09])
4. How does the commitment to saying "yes" to God's call manifest in the lives of church members, both in going and supporting missions? ([47:16])

#### Application Questions
1. Reflect on your own community. How can you start being a witness for Christ in your "Jerusalem"? What specific actions can you take this week to show love and share the gospel locally? ([22:20])
2. Think about a time when you experienced or witnessed the transformative power of the gospel. How did it impact your faith and actions? How can you share this story with someone who needs encouragement? ([38:59])
3. What are some practical ways you can support global missions, even if you are not able to go yourself? Consider prayer, financial support, or other forms of encouragement. ([47:16])
4. How can you encourage and mentor the next generation in your church to be passionate about missions? What specific steps can you take to involve them in mission activities? ([59:09])
5. Reflect on the idea of being Christ's ambassador as described in 2 Corinthians 5:18-20. What does this role mean to you personally, and how can you live it out in your daily life? ([01:12:44])
6. The sermon emphasized the importance of saying "yes" to God's call. Is there a specific area in your life where you feel God is calling you to step out in faith? What is holding you back, and how can you overcome it? ([47:16])
7. How can you and your small group actively participate in the church's mission efforts, both locally and globally? Brainstorm and commit to at least one actionable step you can take together. ([01:07:32])

Devotional

Day 1: Bridging Local and Global Missions
The gospel compels us to love our neighbors both near and far, integrating local and global missions. This approach is not only strategic but deeply rooted in scripture, as highlighted by Acts 1:8. By beginning our mission work within our local communities, we lay a strong foundation for extending our reach globally. This dual focus ensures that we are witnesses in every sphere of influence, embodying the call to spread the gospel from our doorsteps to the ends of the earth. This integration is crucial for a holistic mission strategy that acknowledges the interconnectedness of our global community. [22:20]

Matthew 28:19-20 says, “Go therefore and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit, teaching them to observe all that I have commanded you. And behold, I am with you always, to the end of the age.”

Reflection: How can you actively participate in both local and global missions from your current life situation?

Day 2: Transformation Through the Gospel
The transformative power of the gospel is evident both in scripture and through personal testimonies within our community. These stories of life change are powerful reminders of the gospel's ability to turn hearts towards God. As we share and listen to these testimonies, we are encouraged to continue our mission efforts, knowing that the gospel can profoundly impact lives. This real-life change not only motivates us but also serves as a testament to the gospel's enduring power and relevance. [38:59]

1 Thessalonians 1:4-5 states, “For we know, brothers loved by God, that he has chosen you, because our gospel came to you not only in word, but also in power and in the Holy Spirit and with full conviction.”

Reflection: Can you think of a personal experience where the gospel has transformed your life or someone you know? How can you share this story to inspire others?

Day 3: Commitment to Mission
Saying "yes" to God's call involves a deep commitment, exemplified by our church members who support and engage in missions. This commitment is not just about going but also supporting through prayer and giving, integral aspects of our mission strategy. Our collective "yes" is powerful and necessary for the mission to thrive. As we commit to this call, we become active participants in God's plan, demonstrating our obedience and willingness to be used by Him for greater purposes. [47:16]

Colossians 4:2-3 encourages, “Continue steadfastly in prayer, being watchful in it with thanksgiving. At the same time, pray also for us, that God may open to us a door for the word, to declare the mystery of Christ, on account of which I am in prison.”

Reflection: What are practical ways you can say "yes" to God's mission this week, either through giving, praying, or going?

Day 4: Raising the Next Generation for Mission
It is crucial to encourage the next generation to engage in missions, allowing them to experience God's call firsthand. By doing so, we prepare them to take the gospel further than we could ourselves. This approach not only ensures the continuation of mission work but also honors God's call for their lives, making mission a legacy. As we invest in the younger generation, we are investing in the future of the church and its global mission. [59:09]

Psalm 78:4-6 declares, “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… that the next generation might know them, the children yet unborn, and arise and tell them to their children.”

Reflection: How can you mentor or support a young person in your community to take steps towards engaging in missions?

Day 5: The Role of the Church in Global Missions
Our church plays a pivotal role in global missions, not only by sending and supporting missionaries but also by being a community that prays and gives generously. This support system is vital for the success of missions and exemplifies the church's obedience to the Great Commission. As we unite in this global effort, our collective support and prayers empower those on the front lines, spreading the gospel across the world. [01:07:32]

2 Corinthians 8:3-4 reads, “For they gave according to their means, as I can testify, and beyond their means, of their own accord, begging us earnestly for the favor of taking part in the relief of the saints.”

Reflection: In what ways can you contribute to the global mission efforts of your church, whether through prayer, giving, or other forms of support?

Quotes

### Quotes for Outreach

1. "The gospel really is good news. It takes men who in their very core just act out of their sinful nature and changes them like that. And it takes men who may have something taken away from them. That can then come. And that forgiveness and disciple a man that took something. What other message does that but the gospel of Jesus Christ?" [38:59]( | | )

2. "You've got all kinds of opportunities. We invite you into something that is greater than you could ever imagine. It is the gospel of Jesus Christ as we go and we are witnesses, starting in Jerusalem, into Judea and Samaria and the uttermost parts of the earth, starting in Greensboro, all throughout North Carolina and the very uttermost parts of the earth." [01:12:44]( | | )

3. "All this is from God. Everything that you see here, what God is doing all around us, who reconciled us to himself through Christ, gave us the ministry of reconciliation. That God was reconciling the world to himself in Christ, not counting people's sins against them. And he has committed to us the message of reconciliation. We are therefore Christ's ambassadors, as though God was making his appeal through us." [01:12:44]( | | )

### Quotes for Members

1. "As we live into missions. As we continue to look at this text. The text states, Elliot, that the disciples will be witnesses. It says, you will be my witnesses, beginning in Jerusalem, moving into the uttermost parts of the earth. Today, what does it mean, not only looking at what it means to be a witness in that context, but today's context, what does it mean, even for our global workers, to be witnesses where they are?" [48:01]( | | )

2. "A lot of us want to keep them safe and secure. But I will just tell you, the next generation, let them go. Let them be. Give them up to the Lord. It is the greatest endeavor that they can ever have on their life. You look at even two men who are here. Whose men grew up in pastor's families. And as they grew up in those families, those pastors let their kids go. And you know what? I think about the legacy that even Elliot has." [59:09]( | | )

3. "It's confession time up here. You know, these guys are the ones that will lead the calls as we are scattered among our city, our neighborhoods, our community, and the world. And I am so thankful to work along beside you guys. You know, it's one of the things that I appreciate so much is you guys have put your yes on the tables. And when you say put your yes on it, these men have put their yes on the tables." [01:06:28]( | | )

4. "We get to commission two teams, a team that is going to Indonesia and a team that is going to the Ivory Coast. Why do we commission? I'm going to ask those teams to come up here right now. We commission so that you can see and put a face with those who are going because we are going to hold the ropes of prayer for them." [01:07:32]( | | )

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Transcript
What was the most surprising thing in this sermon?
Were there any personal stories shared?