The Mission Begins Here
One of the greatest responsibilities God gives a local church is to send missionaries. This goes beyond writing checks; it means sending people we love. Biblically, this is one of the clearest expressions of the Great Commission. The first example of a sending church appears in Acts 13:1–4, where the church at Antioch sent out Paul and Barnabas.
The Holy Spirit Coordinates the Mission
Acts 13 makes one thing clear: missions begins with the Holy Spirit. He calls, directs, and empowers missionaries. Reaching the world with the Gospel was never merely a human strategy; it started in the heart of God.
The Holy Spirit still calls faithful and capable members from local churches. Letting them go can be hard, but God does not leave gaps in ministry. The same Spirit who sends missionaries also raises up new leaders at home.
The Local Church Still Matters
While the Holy Spirit directs missions, the local church plays a central role. No organization has more influence or authority over a missionary than the sending church.
At BIO, this principle is foundational. Missions agencies assist, but they do not replace the church. The sending church carries both a privilege and a responsibility.
Four Responsibilities of a Sending Church
- Recognize the Call — Church leaders must stay spiritually alert through prayer and fasting. When churches stop listening, future missionaries can be overlooked.
- Identify with the Work — The laying on of hands symbolizes identification and support. When a church commissions a missionary, it publicly says, “We are in this together.”
- Release Them Fully — Missionaries are most effective when they can focus entirely on the calling God has placed before them.
- Support Them Faithfully — The sending church should remain involved through communication, encouragement, accountability, prayer, and financial support.
Practical Ways a Church Can Help
- Fund survey trips or special training
- Pay for required medical exams and testing
- Cover deputation tools such as printing, media, and displays
- Offer housing, office space, and phone access
- Provide vehicle, auto, or health insurance assistance
- Help schedule deputation meetings
- Maintain consistent communication and encouragement
- Work closely with the chosen missions agency
Not every church can do everything, but every church can do something. Missionaries who are strongly supported by their sending church are more effective both on deputation and on the field.
Final Encouragement
The Great Commission is not unrealistic or outdated. God has already provided the people and the resources. The question is whether churches are willing to pray, listen, and send.
Let's commit to raising up missionaries from within our churches and standing with them every step of the way.