InstaStudy

Our Divine Mandate: Called to Action

A Bible study outline exploring the concept of mission.

1. The Foundation of Mission: God's Saving Purpose

1.1 God's Desire for Relationship

Verses: Genesis 3:9; John 3:16
  • God initiated contact with humanity after the fall, demonstrating His desire for reconciliation.
  • The giving of His Son reveals the depth of God's love and His plan for salvation.

1.2 The Promise of Redemption

Verses: Genesis 12:3; Galatians 3:8
  • God's promise to Abraham included blessing all nations, highlighting the global scope of His plan.
  • This promise is fulfilled through faith in Jesus Christ, extending salvation to all who believe.

2. The Agent of Mission: Empowered by the Spirit

2.1 The Holy Spirit's Role

Verses: Acts 1:8; John 14:26
  • The Holy Spirit empowers believers to be witnesses, providing the strength and ability to share the message.
  • The Spirit guides believers into all truth, equipping them to understand and communicate God's will.

2.2 Manifestations of the Spirit

Verses: 1 Corinthians 12:7-11; Acts 2:4
  • Spiritual gifts are given to each believer for the common good, enabling them to serve effectively.
  • Speaking in tongues is a sign of the Spirit's presence and power, often accompanying the initial infilling.

3. The Scope of Mission: Reaching the World

3.1 Local Outreach

Verses: Matthew 5:16; Acts 1:8
  • Believers are called to be a light in their communities, demonstrating God's love through their actions.
  • Mission begins at home, with a focus on sharing the gospel with those nearby.

3.2 Global Impact

Verses: Matthew 28:19-20; Mark 16:15
  • The Great Commission calls believers to go into all the world, making disciples of all nations.
  • This involves sharing the gospel, baptizing new believers, and teaching them to obey God's commands.

3.3 Ministering to the Whole Person

Verses: Luke 4:18-19; James 2:15-16
  • Jesus' ministry included both preaching the gospel and meeting the physical needs of people.
  • True mission involves caring for the whole person, addressing both spiritual and practical needs.

4. The Message of Mission: Repentance and Faith

4.1 The Call to Repentance

Verses: Acts 2:38; Luke 24:47
  • Repentance involves turning away from sin and turning towards God.
  • It is a necessary step for receiving forgiveness and experiencing new life.

4.2 Faith in Jesus Christ

Verses: John 3:16; Acts 16:31
  • Salvation comes through faith in Jesus Christ, believing that He is the Son of God who died for our sins.
  • Faith is not merely intellectual assent but a trusting reliance on Jesus for salvation.

4.3 Baptism in Jesus' Name

Verses: Acts 2:38; Acts 10:48
  • Baptism in water is an act of obedience and identification with Jesus' death, burial, and resurrection.
  • It is to be administered in the name of Jesus Christ for the remission of sins.

5. The Urgency of Mission: The Time is Now

5.1 The Imminent Return of Christ

Verses: Matthew 24:36-44; 1 Thessalonians 4:16-17
  • Jesus will return unexpectedly, so believers must be ready at all times.
  • The urgency of mission is heightened by the knowledge that Christ's return is near.

5.2 The Lostness of Humanity

Verses: Romans 3:23; John 14:6
  • All have sinned and fall short of God's glory, and are in need of salvation.
  • Jesus is the only way to the Father, and without Him, people are lost.