The Essentials of Missions: Connecting to Unbelievers

[Adapted from a paper I wrote]

Point 2: Churches established in missions are connecting to unbelievers

In Acts 13-14, we see Paul and Barnabus actively engaging the lost with the Gospel. We also see them entrusting their ministry to the local Churches, presumably because the Churches were mature to continue the ongoing work of evangelization.

Existing Churches should consider whether they have the capacity to engage with unbelievers. Specifically, they should consider whether they have cultivated that gift in their membership rather than relying solely on paid clergy.

This does not only mean having active evangelism to the local community. Churches should consider whether they are able to correctly communicate the Gospel to those who are yet to be saved within their own walls. Most North American Evangelical Churches will always have unbelievers in their midst, whether they be family members, false conversions, or friends. A Church is not properly established in missions if they are not equipped to speak the good news of Christ to people outside their walls and inside their walls.

To make it simple, here are two practical questions to ask:

1. Does your Church actively engage the unbelieving community with the Gospel?

2. Does your Church have the maturity to continue the work of evangelization?