
Answering the Call: Embracing a Life of Missionary Work and Volunteering Guided by Biblical Principles
Christian missionary work and volunteering are deeply rooted in the biblical mandate to love and serve others. The Bible provides numerous principles that guide Christians in their pursuit of these activities, emphasizing the importance of compassion, service, and spreading the Gospel. This essay explores how Christians can pursue a life of missionary work and volunteering, drawing on key biblical principles and examples.
The Biblical Basis for Missionary Work and Volunteering
The Great Commission
The Great Commission, found in Matthew 28:19-20, is a foundational scripture for missionary work:
“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.”
This command from Jesus emphasizes the importance of going out into the world to spread the Gospel. Christians are called to share their faith and make disciples, which forms the core of missionary work.
The Greatest Commandments
Jesus summarized the law with two commandments in Matthew 22:37-40:
“Love the Lord your God with all your heart and with all your soul and with all your mind. This is the first and greatest commandment. And the second is like it: Love your neighbor as yourself. All the Law and the Prophets hang on these two commandments.”
Loving one’s neighbor involves acts of service and compassion, which are integral to both missionary work and volunteering. This principle encourages Christians to engage in activities that demonstrate God’s love through practical help and support.
Examples of Missionary Work and Volunteering in the Bible
The Early Church
The Book of Acts provides numerous examples of missionary work. The apostles traveled extensively, preaching the Gospel and establishing churches. Acts 1:8 states:
“But you will receive power when the Holy Spirit comes on you; and you will be my witnesses in Jerusalem, and in all Judea and Samaria, and to the ends of the earth.”
This verse highlights the geographical expansion of missionary efforts, starting locally and extending globally. The early church’s commitment to spreading the Gospel serves as a model for modern missionary work.
The Good Samaritan
The parable of the Good Samaritan in Luke 10:25-37 illustrates the principle of loving and serving others. In this story, a Samaritan helps a man who has been beaten and left for dead, demonstrating compassion and selflessness. Jesus concludes the parable by saying:
“Go and do likewise.”
This command encourages Christians to show mercy and provide aid to those in need, irrespective of their background or circumstances. It underscores the importance of practical assistance and volunteering.
Practical Steps for Pursuing Missionary Work and Volunteering
Discerning God’s Call
Before embarking on missionary work or volunteering, it is crucial for Christians to seek God’s guidance. Prayer, meditation on Scripture, and seeking counsel from spiritual mentors can help in discerning God’s will. Proverbs 3:5-6 advises:
“Trust in the Lord with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding; in all your ways submit to him, and he will make your paths straight.”
By trusting in God and seeking His direction, Christians can ensure that their efforts align with His purposes.
Equipping and Training
Effective missionary work and volunteering require proper preparation. This includes theological training, cultural awareness, and practical skills. 2 Timothy 2:15 emphasizes the importance of being prepared:
“Do your best to present yourself to God as one approved, a worker who does not need to be ashamed and who correctly handles the word of truth.”
Training programs offered by churches and missionary organizations can provide the necessary tools and knowledge for effective service.
Building Relationships
Building relationships is essential in both missionary work and volunteering. Jesus’ ministry was characterized by personal interactions and relationships. John 13:34-35 highlights this:
“A new command I give you: Love one another. As I have loved you, so you must love one another. By this everyone will know that you are my disciples, if you love one another.”
By forming genuine relationships, Christians can effectively share their faith and provide meaningful support to others.
Challenges and Rewards of Missionary Work and Volunteering
Challenges
- Cultural Barriers: Adapting to different cultures can be challenging. Missionaries must learn to respect and understand the customs and traditions of the people they serve.
- Spiritual Warfare: Engaging in missionary work often involves spiritual challenges. Ephesians 6:12 reminds Christians of the spiritual nature of their struggle:
“For our struggle is not against flesh and blood, but against the rulers, against the authorities, against the powers of this dark world and against the spiritual forces of evil in the heavenly realms.”
- Personal Sacrifice: Missionary work and volunteering often require significant personal sacrifices, including financial costs, time, and comfort.
Rewards
- Spiritual Growth: Engaging in missionary work and volunteering leads to personal spiritual growth. James 1:22 encourages active faith:
“Do not merely listen to the word, and so deceive yourselves. Do what it says.”
- Impact on Others: The most significant reward is the impact on others’ lives. Bringing the message of hope and salvation to others and seeing lives transformed is deeply fulfilling.
- Eternal Perspective: Missionary work and volunteering remind Christians of the eternal perspective. Matthew 6:20 encourages storing up treasures in heaven:
“But store up for yourselves treasures in heaven, where moths and vermin do not destroy, and where thieves do not break in and steal.”
Contemporary Examples of Missionary Work and Volunteering
International Missionaries
Many Christians dedicate their lives to international missions, serving in remote areas and providing spiritual and physical aid. Organizations like the International Mission Board and Youth With A Mission (YWAM) facilitate such efforts, providing support and training for missionaries.
Local Volunteering
Local churches often engage in community service projects, such as food banks, homeless shelters, and after-school programs. These initiatives provide practical assistance and demonstrate Christ’s love to those in need. Programs like Habitat for Humanity and local church outreach programs exemplify this kind of service.
Integrating Missionary Work and Volunteering into Daily Life
Living Out Faith in the Workplace
Christians can integrate missionary principles into their daily lives by living out their faith in the workplace. Colossians 3:23-24 encourages this:
“Whatever you do, work at it with all your heart, as working for the Lord, not for human masters, since you know that you will receive an inheritance from the Lord as a reward. It is the Lord Christ you are serving.”
By exemplifying Christian values in their professional lives, believers can be witnesses to their colleagues.
Family and Community Involvement
Involvement in family and community activities provides opportunities for missionary work and volunteering. Hosting community events, participating in local charities, and being active in church ministries allow Christians to serve and share their faith.
Conclusion
Pursuing a life of missionary work and volunteering is a profound way for Christians to live out their faith. Rooted in biblical principles such as the Great Commission and the Greatest Commandments, these activities demonstrate God’s love and compassion to the world. By discerning God’s call, equipping themselves, and building relationships, Christians can overcome challenges and experience the deep rewards of service. Whether internationally or locally, in formal roles or daily interactions, Christians are called to be the hands and feet of Jesus, making a tangible difference in the lives of others and fulfilling their divine mandate.