Our Commitment to Being a Great Commission Local Church

There are two reasons why local churches need to be committed to the Great Commission.

First, it is Biblical.

1) The Great Commission was given to the whole church – not just to the twelve or to a select few.
Jesus clarified that the Great Commission was to be accomplished in several locations simultaneously.
(Acts 1:8)
If everyone is to participate in the Great Commission, it is the responsibility of the pastor to help his people find their place in fulfilling that responsibility.
2) We were designed to work together – not as individuals.
3) It is the model we have been given in the New Testament.
(Acts 13:1-4)

Second, it is practical.

1) Local churches throughout history have accepted their responsibility to fulfill the Great Commission. Therefore, it can be done!
2) The local church is God’s mobile unit for world evangelization.
It can go anywhere.
It can adapt to local circumstances and needs.
Biblical instructions for the organization of local churches are very simple
It is easily duplicated.
3) Essential training is available to missionary candidates only through the local church.

Therefore:

Let us resolve that our local churches will accept their responsibility to world evangelization and to the training and sending of missionary candidates to make disciples of all peoples.
OK! Right on! But how?

The Model

The model is found in the church at Syrian Antioch. What did this church do?

They prayed.
(Acts 1:4; 2:42; 4:31; Matthew 9:36-38; I Timothy 2:1-4)

They planned.
(Acts 13:4; Galatians 2:7-9)

They practiced.
They were leaders of moral character (I Timothy 3:1-7; Titus 1:7-9)
They were leaders who had experience in ministry (Acts 13:2; I Thessalonians 1: 6-10)

They commended and sent.
(Acts 13:4; 14:26)

They supported.
Who bought the boat ticket?
(I Corinthians 9:1-15; Luke 10:7; Philippians 4:10-19)