On Mission: The Jesus Way
5 Day Devotional
This five-day devotional will take a deeper dive into the sermon below. We will explore the Great Commission, the call to missions, and how God has empowered us to reach out to our spiritual and physical neighbors, both near and far. Join us each day as we reflect on scripture and examine how we can actively participate in God's mission for His church.
Day 1
Matthew 28:18-20
As Pastor shared, Jesus' resurrection comes with a powerful commissioning—the Great Commission. This pivotal mandate is not just a call but a command to actively participate in spreading His word and making disciples. Our journey begins with understanding that God's authority in heaven and earth empowers us to go boldly into the world. Jesus' instruction is clear: Go, make disciples of all nations, baptize them, and teach them to obey His commands.
It’s a reminder that the Great Commission is not optional. Whether in our local communities or internationally, we are called to action, motivated by love for God and our neighbors. As we step into this mission, we acknowledge that we're empowered by the Holy Spirit to be His witnesses, transforming the lives of those around us.
Something to think about…
How does understanding the Great Commission as a command, rather than a suggestion, change your perspective on missions?
In what ways can you become more active in your local community?
What barriers do you need to overcome to engage more fully in God's mission?
Prayer Prompts:
Ask God to open your heart to His calling.
Pray for courage to step out in faith and share the gospel.
Day 2
Acts 1:8
The book of Acts provides a map of how the early church spread the gospel. Jesus tells His disciples they will receive power when the Holy Spirit comes upon them. This power isn't just for their encouragement; it equips them to be witnesses in Jerusalem, Judea, Samaria, and to the ends of the earth. Understanding this chain reaction is crucial for churches today. Each believer and church community is entrusted to continue this domino effect of spiritual outreach.
As we embrace our local and global responsibilities, embodying the call to be witnesses means sharing our authentic faith experiences and inviting others into a relationship with Christ. Whether in our hometowns or halfway across the world, every believer plays a vital role in God’s mission.
Something to think about…
Where is your 'Jerusalem'—your immediate community where you can start being a witness for Jesus?
What does 'Judea and Samaria' look like for you in terms of reaching out to those nearby?
How are you being called to be part of God's work at the 'ends of the earth'?
Prayer Prompts:
Ask for clarity and direction in discerning your mission field.
Pray for boldness to act as a witness in your everyday life.
Day 3
Isaiah 6:5-8
Isaiah's experience of seeing the Lord highlights a critical aspect of missions: it begins with a surrendered heart. His immediate reaction to God’s holiness was an awareness of his own sinfulness and inadequacy. However, God purified Isaiah, preparing him for the mission at hand. In the same way, God cleanses and equips us for service. This step is vital; our availability and willingness to say, "Here I am. Send me!" open the door for God to use us mightily in His kingdom work.
Being on mission requires humility and a readiness to acknowledge our limitations and trust in God’s strength. When we do, we become vessels for His grace and love, reaching out to those who are lost or searching.
Something to think about…
What areas of your life need surrendering to God to be fully used by Him?
How does acknowledging your own limitations help enhance your witness?
What steps can you take to be more intentional with being available for God's work?
Prayer Prompts:
Pray for a heart that’s open and willing to go where God leads.
Thank God for His grace that qualifies you for service.
Day 4
Philippians 4:15-16
The church of Philippi presents a remarkable example of community and generosity in support of the gospel. Despite their circumstances, they urgently supported Paul’s efforts to spread the gospel, recognizing the importance of partnership in missions. Their actions reflect a choice—prioritizing God's work even in times of personal hardship.
Their commitment challenges us to consider how and where we can contribute, be it through prayer, financial support, or direct involvement. Our participation could be the critical support needed to help someone spread the light of the gospel in a dark place.
Something to think about…
What does generosity look like in your current life stage?
How can you support your local church or missionary efforts more effectively?
Consider ways God is calling you to partner in His mission beyond just financial support.
Prayer Prompts:
Pray for a spirit of generosity even amidst personal challenges.
Seek discernment on how best to support God's work through your resources.
Day 5
John 4:39-42
The story of the Samaritan woman at the well embodies the transformational impact of encountering Christ. Moved by her interaction with Jesus, she couldn’t keep her newfound faith to herself. Her candid testimony led many in her town to believe, demonstrating the power of personal story in the missions field.
Each of us has a unique story carved by God's grace. When we’re willing to share it, it can lead others to discover Christ. Your story, much like the woman’s, is an invitation for others to "come and see" what the Lord has done.
Something to think about…
How is God calling you to share your personal testimony with others?
What aspects of your story do you find hard to share, and why?
Who can you invite this week to "come and see" what God has done in your life?
Prayer Prompts:
Ask God for courage to share your testimony honestly.
Pray that your story will inspire others to seek Jesus.
