What is "Mission" (and what is Missions?)

In our church, we often hear about ‘missions’—but what does it really mean, and how is it different from our overall ‘mission’? While the two words sound similar, they carry distinct meanings that are important for us to understand as we participate in the work God has called us to do.

First, let’s talk about our mission. The mission of the church is the big-picture purpose that God has given us. It’s all about sharing His love and making disciples of all nations, as Jesus commanded in Matthew 28:19-20. This mission is not just something we do; it’s who we are as followers of Jesus. It’s about living out our faith every day, whether we are at work, in our neighborhoods, or with our families.

For example, when you encourage a coworker who is going through a tough time, or when you share the hope of Christ with a neighbor, you’re living out the church’s mission. Our mission is about showing God’s love to others and helping them know Him. It’s a calling that touches every part of our lives.

Now, what about missions? Missions are the specific actions we take to fulfill our mission. These are the organized efforts our church supports, like sending missionaries to other countries, funding church plants, or running local outreach programs. Missions might involve feeding programs, evangelistic outreach, or supporting missionary families we know and love.

Missions have been a part of the church’s work since the very beginning. The early Christians spread the Gospel to new places, often facing great danger to share the good news of Jesus. Today, missions continue to be about reaching out to people, both near and far, with the love of Christ.

So, how do mission and missions work together? Think of our mission as the heart of the church—our core purpose. Missions, on the other hand, are like the hands and feet—doing the work that brings the mission to life. While our mission is broad and covers everything we do as believers, missions are the specific ways we take action.

It’s important to remember that all our missions activities serve the larger mission of sharing God’s love. Whether we are going on a short-term mission trip, supporting a missionary financially, or volunteering in a local outreach, we are contributing to God’s mission in the world.

As a church, this understanding helps us stay aligned with God’s plan. It reminds us that every effort, big or small, contributes to the work God is doing. Whether you are praying for a missionary, giving to support missions, or sharing the Gospel in your community, you are part of something much bigger.

So what does this mean for us? It means that we all have a role to play. You don’t have to travel to a distant country to be involved in missions. There are many ways to participate right here at home. Join a missions team, support a missionary, or get involved in local outreach efforts. Every act of service, every prayer, and every dollar given makes a difference.

Let’s embrace both our church’s mission and the specific missions we support with renewed passion and commitment. Together, we can make a real impact for God’s kingdom.

In conclusion, while the terms mission and missions are closely related, they are not the same. Our mission is the church’s God-given purpose, and missions are the actions we take to fulfill that purpose. As we continue to engage in missions, let’s keep our focus on the bigger picture—living out our mission every day and in every way.