Sunday morning I will teach the Bible Class at Iglesia de Cristo. We are studying Matthew 10, Jesus’ second major discourse. After commissioning the Twelve and giving them specific instructions that relate to their mission (verses 1-23), Jesus gives them words of encouragement that can be applied more generally. We can call these “principles for the mission.”
First, Jesus is the teacher and the example. Mission is not about us, it is not about the workers. In one sense, our goal is not the mission, our goal is to become like Jesus. The mission is God’s. Jesus is the one who builds the church. He asks of his followers that we make more and more disciples.
Second, God is in control and he will take care of those who are involved in the mission.
Third, our relationship with God depends on our boldness in the mission. As we declare him before others, he affirms that we are his.
Fourth, the result of the mission is not always love and joy and peace. Sometimes the message of Jesus causes divisions. Mission demands establishing correct priorities. Mission demands that we focus on life beyond this world.
Fifth, the messengers are God’s messengers, and the response is not personal. The mission is about God; the mission is about Jesus. To reject the message is not to reject the messenger but to reject God. The reward is certain because God gives the reward.