As the world around us continues to change, we find ourselves asking the question, “What does a future missionary look like?”
One of the first missionaries we read about in the Bible was the demon-possessed man who lived in the region of the Gerasenes in Mark chapter 5.
You remember the pig story, right?
After the demons went into the pigs and drowned, the crowd saw the man sitting clothed at the feet of Jesus. The crowd wanted Jesus to leave and the man wanted to leave with Him. Jesus said to the transformed man, “No, go home to your family, and tell them everything the Lord has done for you and how merciful He was.”
Then, of course, we read about Paul and his missionary journeys as the Good News of the Gospel spread throughout the Mediterranean world.
Protestant missions began in 1517 after the Reformation led by Martin Luther.
The foreign missionary movement began in the 19th and early 20th centuries.
Hundreds of thousands of individuals have felt led to be full-time missionaries. Many have made tremendous sacrifices to advance the kingdom of God, as we’ve heard countless stories of martyrs who gave up all they had for Jesus.
So, what does a future missionary look like?
That’s a great question!
If mission organizations could figure that out, they could spend much less time traveling from conference to conference communicating what they do to thousands of potential people who are trying to figure out God’s will for their lives.
Organizations will spend thousands of dollars attempting to capture the attention of the would-be servant of the Lord. They create attractive mission displays covered with eye-catching giveaways and handouts in hopes of enticing others to approach their table.
Oh, and don’t forget the candy!
In my opinion, God is still the greatest missionary recruiter.
Proverbs 21:1 says, “The king’s heart is like a stream of water directed by the Lord; He guides it wherever He pleases.” If God can direct a king’s heart, don’t we think He can direct a missionary’s heart?
So, again, what does a future missionary look like?
Here are some things to consider:
- You need to be convinced that this is what God wants you to do. If not, you will not serve very long. It’s not just an option–it’s a calling! You’re not special, just called.
- You will need to know what the voice of the Lord sounds like amidst many voices clamoring for your attention. Listen is a key word throughout the Bible. You will need to “listen” and have the courage to follow.
- You will need to figure out how you will be funded. A big obstacle these days for young people starting out is school debt. Another obstacle is fear. Jesus says, “Fear not.” Remember all those cows He owns on those hills? He can easily take care of you!
- You need to be flexible with your expectations. “We can make our plans, but the Lord determines our steps.” Proverbs 16:9
- You will need to come to the realization that God doesn’t really need you to accomplish His plan, He just lets you in on it. It’s all about Him!
Here is a great quote: “If you are walking with the Lord you are on the threshold of change, because God moves and He desires that you go with Him!”
In Conclusion
The life of a missionary is an untold adventure and drama.
It’s a life dedicated to spiritual growth filled with many challenges.
It’s a life of searching and questioning.
It’s a life of God showing Himself strong to you in sometimes troubling or hopeless situations.
It’s a life of eternal rewards.
The harvest is ripe for harvest, the workers are few.
Join in the journey! What’s holding you back?
If you aren’t sure where it is God is calling you to serve yet, check out TECH Team Advantage! We offer full-time, part-time, internship, and volunteer opportunities to like-minded missionaries, churches, and Christian organizations who long to make an impact for God’s Kingdom!
Visit our website for more information to learn more about our five (5) areas of service and how you can use your gifts, passions, talents, and skills to make a difference for eternity: techteam.org
