The Church Is Sent
Scripture Reading — Romans 10:13-18
How can they hear without someone preaching ... ? ... How can they preach unless they are sent? Rom. 10:14-15
Healthy churches are sending churches that proclaim the love of God around the world. From the time it was birthed by Jesus, the church has answered the call to spread the good news of salvation to every nation, tribe, and people. Despite barriers of culture, politics, and language, the message has been proclaimed, using every method to bring hope to a hurting world.
Today the work of telling others continues. Jesus' promise to send his Holy Spirit is still being realized. Jesus' commission that his followers would be witnesses everywhere, to the ends of the earth, is as much in effect today as it was two thousand years ago. The message that once traveled on sailing ships and by foot is now delivered by way of radio, television, printed page, and Internet--as well as in one-on-one conversations and face-to-face encounters.
The methods have changed, but the message is the same--the good news of God's unconditional love for sinners--the word of salvation through the death and resurrection of Jesus Christ. Peter's words at Pentecost are as true today as ever before: "Repent and be baptized, every one of you, in the name of Jesus Christ for the forgiveness of your sins" (Acts 2:38).
"How can they hear without someone preaching to them? And how can they preach unless they are sent?"
Father, you have called us to proclaim and spread the good news of Christ. Prepare our hearts to be open to your call. The harvest is ripe. Send forth reapers, Lord. Amen.
About the author — Jerry Dykstra
Pastor Jerry Dykstra was recently appointed as the executive director of the Christian Reformed Church in North America. After a 15-year career in business, he trained for pastoral ministry and served as the pastor of Cascade Fellowship CRC, Cascade, Michigan, and Faith Christian Fellowship CRC, Walnut Creek, California. He and his wife, Linda, live in Byron Center, Michigan, and have three children and seven grandchildren.
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