Here's what I wish my twenty-something self knew about the theology of mission. At that age, I believed that when I embarked on my journey to Southeast Asia to serve alongside local people, they would become my new world, my new family. Armed with an idea or vision, I lacked a clear picture of how to achieve it. A well-defined theology of mission would have provided me with a roadmap to navigate the complexities and understand what truly mattered.
A Bigger Vision: Witnessing and Empowering Others
My initial vision for reaching the lost was rooted in being a witness myself, yet over time, I realized that the true objective was to collaborate with and empower local workers, enabling them to develop their own churches. This shift in perspective highlighted that God's plans were far grander than my initial dreams. My mission evolved from solely spreading the word to fostering sustainable growth within the local faith communities.
Commitment to Discipleship
A pivotal lesson was taking Jesus’s words, "go and make disciples," more seriously. Discipleship isn't confined to a single meeting, a week, or even a month. It's a long-term commitment that involves sharing life and ministry. Creating meaningful relationships and walking alongside new believers became the essence of my mission. This approach mirrors the biblical partnership profoundly illustrated by the Apostle Paul.
Listening and Trusting the Spirit
Finally, I learned the importance of listening more to people and placing greater trust in the spirit. Looking for signs of the Spirit's activity, especially in uniting people, became a compass guiding my actions. The Spirit's role extends beyond merely being a silent partner; it is an active force bringing people together and facilitating divine connections.
These insights and experiences transformed my understanding and approach to mission work. They underscore the importance of a clear theology of mission, the power of local empowerment, the depth of true discipleship, and the necessity of spiritual discernment.
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