Day 30: The Mission of Reconciliation
2 Corinthians 5:18–19
Years ago, Dr. Paul Bubna, the president of The Alliance at the time, structured an entire General Council around the theme of the glory of God. He preached a powerful message on the subject and invited Dr. John Piper to speak throughout the week. It was absolutely stunning for me to say the least! You see, for many years I had heard the Great Commission, to make disciples of all nations, as a bare command. The command struck my soul as a duty that burdened me like a job description from an employer. Don’t get me wrong, I was totally engaged. But I lacked context. Paul and John permanently changed that for me! Suddenly I could see the wonder of God getting His greatest pleasure from glorifying His own name on the earth and inviting me to receive the greatest blessing by being part of that. No longer was the Great Commission merely workmanlike. It had become a pleasure.
That understanding and pleasure then integrated for me with the Apostle Paul’s word to the Corinthians that the pursuit of the gospel to every nation is a wonderful matter of reconciliation to God and one another. Our mission is to be the Lord’s humble servants, for Him to glorify Himself by building a heavenly family of children, women, and men who know Him and are bound together in freedom from sin and joy in relationship. And so, we go as commanded—not with reluctance, but with delight!
Reflection Prayer
Great Father, thank You for engaging us in Your greatest pleasure as we glorify Your name through the gospel. Grant that we may hear Your word of command as the path to our own greatest pleasure in serving You. May there be every color of skin and language of tongue in our sights as we extend reconciliation to You and one another around the world, especially where Christ is little named or not named at all. Thank You for giving us a purpose that surpasses all others, both for time and eternity. Amen.
Week 5: Christ and His Mission
Matthew 28:19-20
As we focus on the life of Christ, this week’s theme is Christ and His Mission. The primary mission of Jesus was to save humankind from sin and eternal condemnation by offering Himself as the atoning sacrifice. As part of His mission, He extended His sacrifice to include reconciliation, drawing people back to the Father, transforming them into the likeness of His Son and revealing the hope of glory. A significant aspect of His mission is that He invites His disciples and believers to partner with Him in carrying out His work in the world, providing opportunities for unreached individuals to hear the good news. Jesus, our King and Leader of His mission, sends people to mobilize, proclaim, and live out the gospel worldwide. We are grateful that God has given The Christian and Missionary Alliance the desire and passion to send workers across the globe to spread the gospel to many unreached people groups.
Reflection Questions
Do you actively share the gospel? How often do you feel the urge to share?
What is your biggest challenge in sharing the gospel?
How will you overcome the barriers to sharing the gospel?