Missionaries Are Sent—Not Abandoned

Deep Dive into Biblical Missions: Principles, Priorities, and Practices by Mark Tatlock and Christ Burnett - Don't Hand Them Off: The Ongoing Role of the Home Church in the Life of a MissionaryThe text emphasizes that the work of missions is a frontline ministry that relies heavily on the "home front" support of the local church. While mission agencies provide necessary administrative and strategic help, the sending church must not abdicate its primary responsibility for the spiritual support and oversight of its missionaries.Based on the model in Acts 13, the local church is responsible for identifying and commissioning candidates. This process involves evaluating the individual's character and spiritual giftedness, ensuring they meet biblical qualifications similar to those of elders or deacons before they are sent. The church also takes the lead in training these candidates, verifying their theological accuracy and maturity prior to their departure.Once missionaries are on the field, the relationship must remain active and reciprocal. Using examples from Acts 14 and Philippians, the text argues that sending churches should welcome missionaries back to report on God’s work and maintain ongoing communication through prayer and fellowship. This connection allows the church to share in the missionary's trials and successes, creating a true partnership in the gospel.Practically, the church is called to "hold the rope" for those who descend into the mission field, a concept attributed to Andrew Fuller and William Carey. According to 3 John, believers must support missionaries in a manner "worthy of God," providing hospitality and resources as fellow workers for the truth. Elders should actively counsel and visit missionaries, while the congregation can participate through specific prayer teams, care teams, and financial giving. Ultimately, every member shares the responsibility to support the international mission of the church.Reformed Theologian GPT: https://chat.openai.com/g/g-XXwzX1gnv-reformed-theologianYoutube: https://www.youtube.com/@ReformedExplainerSpotify Music: https://open.spotify.com/artist/1t5dz4vEgvHqUknYQfwpRI?si=e-tDRFR2Qf6By1sAcMdkdwhttps://buymeacoffee.com/edi2730