Scripture Reading: Matthew 28:19-20
“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.”
Introduction:
We live in a time of rapid change. Worldviews are shifting, beliefs are diverse, and cultural bilingualism—the ability to navigate multiple cultural contexts—is now essential.
How do we, as followers of Christ, live missionally in such a world? The answer lies in embracing the unchanging mission of God while adapting to the dynamic world around us.
1. Understanding the Context
The Apostle Paul’s example in Acts 17 is instructive. When Paul stood at the Areopagus in Athens, he encountered a city full of idols and diverse beliefs. Yet, he didn’t dismiss the Athenians as hopeless pagans. Instead, he engaged their culture with respect and insight. He used their own poets and philosophers as a bridge to introduce the gospel.
We can see in our world today:
Shifting Worldviews. Secularism, postmodernism, and pluralism dominate many spheres. Absolute truth is questioned, and personal experience often defines reality.
Diverse Beliefs. We encounter people of different faiths, agnostics, and atheists. The mission field is no longer overseas; it is in our neighborhoods, workplaces, and schools.
Cultural Bilingualism. Like Paul, we must learn to speak the language of the culture without compromising our faith. This includes understanding digital culture, social media trends, and the issues shaping public discourse.
Application: Take time to listen, learn, and understand the people around you. This is the starting point for effective missional living.
2. Living the Gospel in Action
Jesus’ command in Matthew 28 is not just about words; it is about action. To live missionally means embodying the gospel in tangible ways that reflect God’s love and justice.
Authentic Relationships. Build genuine connections with people, not as projects to convert but as individuals to love. People are more likely to listen to the gospel when they see it lived out.
Compassion and Service. Meet practical needs. Whether it’s feeding the hungry, advocating for justice, or caring for creation, our actions often speak louder than our words.
Courageous Conversations. Share your faith openly and lovingly, trusting the Holy Spirit to guide you. Don’t shy away from discussing difficult topics, but always approach them with grace and humility.
Illustration: Consider the Good Samaritan (Luke 10:25-37). He crossed cultural and social barriers to help someone in need. This is what living missionally looks like—crossing boundaries to demonstrate God’s love.
3. Equipped by the Spirit
Living missionally is not something we do in our own strength. Jesus’ promise in Matthew 28:20 reminds us that He is with us always. This promise is fulfilled through the presence of the Holy Spirit.
Empowered Witness. Acts 1:8 tells us that we will receive power when the Holy Spirit comes upon us. This power enables us to be effective witnesses, even in challenging circumstances.
Discernment. The Spirit gives us wisdom to navigate complex cultural and ethical issues. Pray for discernment as you engage with different worldviews.
Boldness. Fear often holds us back from living missionally. The Spirit emboldens us to step out in faith, trusting that God will work through us.
Application: Spend time in prayer and the Word daily, seeking the Spirit’s guidance and strength.
4. Becoming All Things to All People
Paul’s words in 1 Corinthians 9:22-23 resonate deeply: “I have become all things to all people so that by all possible means I might save some. I do all this for the sake of the gospel, that I may share in its blessings.”
Cultural Adaptability. Learn to adapt without compromising the gospel. This may involve learning another language, understanding different traditions, or engaging with modern technology.
Humble Listening. Recognize that we don’t have all the answers. Be willing to learn from others, even those who don’t share our faith.
Focus on the Essentials. Stay centered on the core message of the gospel. Don’t let secondary issues distract from the main mission.
Illustration: Missionaries often immerse themselves in new cultures to share the gospel effectively. We are called to do the same in our own communities.
Conclusion:
Living missionally in a world of shifting worldviews, diverse beliefs, and cultural bilingualism is both a challenge and an opportunity. As we go out into the world, let us:
Understand the context.
Live the gospel in action.
Rely on the Holy Spirit.
Adapt to reach others without compromising our faith.
Remember, the mission is not ours alone. Jesus promised, “I am with you always.” Let this assurance empower us to go and make disciples, bringing the light of Christ to a world in need.
Call to Action:
This week, identify one person or group in your community who may be far from God. Pray for them, seek to understand their perspective, and look for an opportunity to show Christ’s love in a practical way. Together, let’s live missionally for the glory of God.
