“He created human beings, not only to enjoy his grace in a relationship with him, but also to extend his glory to the ends of the earth.” – David Platt, Radical: Taking Back Your Faith from the American Dream
We all have our own personal missions each day. Things that are routine and things that seem impossible. For me my mission each morning is just to make sure my daughter doesn’t take off her socks and throw them on the floor over and over again.
One of the books that truly had me take a double take at my faith and discipleship is David Platt’s Radical: Taking Back your Faith from the American Dream. It really digs deep in taking off the veil of what it really means to be a follower of Jesus and what it requires. One main thing that stuck out for me was the mission of making disciples. Jesus requires us, commands us to do so. It was of Jesus’ final task he gave to the disciples before he went up to heaven. (Matthew 28:19) I personally think this is the hardest command for us Christians to obey. I believe its because it feels intimidating. Essentially talking to a stranger. Something that only a few people can do. Those who are people persons. Not introverts like myself. But in reality Jesus never said to his disciples that only a few of you should go and make disciples. this is for everyone. How else is God’s word and glory going to be revealed in the world? God uses people. You and me. Not just pastors or those called to do missionary work. We all can participate in the mission of discipleship.
Romans 10:14-15 reads, ‘How, then, can they call on the one they have not believed in? And how can they believe in the one of whom they have not heard? And how can they hear without someone preaching to them? And how can anyone preach unless they are sent? As it is written: How beautiful are the feet of those who bring good news!’ We are the ones holding up the church. We are the ones spreading the Gospel. We, the people, are the ones chosen to carry out the mission of Jesus. We are his people taking the message across all nations. Jesus isn’t here on earth anymore. We’re the ones he left behind to do his will. We truly are carrying out his mission. This is our purpose. We all want to find our purpose. Where we belong, What’s our gift, our talent? Well lets start with the mission of witnessing. God requires us all to do so. This isn’t for a select few. You don’t need a special talent, gift of gab, a ton of money. All you need is the holy spirit. (The Helper, the Holy Spirit, whom the Father will send in my name, will teach you everything and make you remember all that I have told you.” – John 14:26) So what are you, we, us, me going to do about it?