The Call to Action: Why “Missions Quotes” Matter
In Christianity, “missions” refers to sharing the Gospel and making disciples of all nations. It’s more than just talking about faith; it’s about actively engaging with different cultures and communities to spread the word.
Inspirational quotes can be a powerful tool to motivate individuals and churches to get involved in missions. A well-chosen quote from an influential figure can ignite passion and commitment in a way that a long explanation sometimes can’t. They offer concise and memorable expressions of why missions are so important.
The following outline explores impactful quotes about missions, categorized by their source and the themes they address. The goal is to deepen your understanding and inspire a stronger commitment to global outreach. These quotes are a reminder of the power and purpose behind the call to missions.
The Biblical Basis for Missions
For many Christians, the call to missions begins with the Great Commission. As Matthew 28:19-20 says, Jesus commanded his followers to “go and make disciples of all nations.” Many Christians believe that obedience to this command is a core part of their faith.
But the Great Commission isn’t the only scripture that inspires global missions. Acts 1:8 promises that the apostles will be Jesus’s “witnesses in Jerusalem, and in all Judea and Samaria, and to the ends of the earth.” Revelation 7:9 envisions “a great multitude that no one could count, from every nation, tribe, people and language, standing before the throne and before the Lamb.”
Missionaries also believe that the Holy Spirit empowers them to share the Gospel effectively, and that dependence on the Spirit is crucial for success.
Quotes from influential missionaries
Missionaries are often on the front lines of global change, and their words can be as powerful as their actions. Here are some inspiring quotes from missionaries who’ve made a significant impact:
William Carey: The Father of Modern Missions
- “Expect great things from God. Attempt great things for God.”
Carey’s bold faith fueled his pioneering work in India. He believed that God empowers those who dare to take action.
- “You have been speaking about William Carey. When I am gone, say nothing about William Carey – speak only about William Carey’s Saviour.”
Carey understood that missionary work isn’t about personal glory. It’s about glorifying God.
- “I’m not afraid of failure; I’m afraid of succeeding at things that don’t matter.”
Carey challenged people to focus on things that have eternal importance.
C.T. Studd: A Life of Radical Abandonment
- “Some wish to live within the sound of church and chapel bell. I want to run a rescue shop within a yard of hell!”
Studd’s passion was reaching the lost in the most difficult places. He embraced self-denial to make that happen.
- “Only one life, ’twill soon be past; Only what’s done for Christ will last.”
Studd reminded people to invest their lives in eternal purposes.
Jim Elliot: Sacrifice and Eternal Perspective
- “He is no fool who gives what he cannot keep to gain what he cannot lose.”
Elliot’s unwavering commitment to missions, which led to his martyrdom, highlights the eternal rewards of serving God.
- “Missionaries are very human folks, just doing what they are asked. Simply a bunch of nobodies trying to exalt Somebody.”
Elliot’s words remind us that missionaries are ordinary people, obediently answering God’s call.
Quotes from pastors, theologians, and Christian leaders
Down through the centuries, many Christian leaders have spoken passionately about the importance of missions. Here are a few quotes to ponder:
The importance of the local church
- “The church that does not evangelize will fossilize.” — Oswald J. Smith. This quote highlights how important it is for a church to be involved in sharing the Gospel. Churches should prioritize missions.
- “Any church not involved in the Great Commission has forfeited its Biblical right to exist.” —Oswald J. Smith. Smith had a lot to say on this topic! He really believed that churches should be actively involved in missions.
The global scope of the Gospel
- “We must be global Christians with a global vision because our God is a global God.” — John R.W. Stott. Stott believed that Christians should have a broad perspective on missions, remembering that God’s love extends to the entire world.
- “The gospel is only good news if it gets there in time.” — Carl F.H. Henry. This quote emphasizes the urgency of sharing the Gospel with others. Missionary work is about sharing the good news now.
The cost of discipleship
- “When Christ calls a man, he bids him come and die.” — Dietrich Bonhoeffer. Following Christ isn’t always easy. Missionary work often involves sacrifice and challenge.
Quotes on the Nature and Purpose of Missions
Why missions? What is it, really? Here are some thoughts from Christian leaders and thinkers.
Worship and Missions
“Missions is not the ultimate goal of the church. Worship is. Missions exists because worship doesn’t.”
Piper’s quote puts missions in the context of worship. The goal of missions is to bring people into the worship of God.
The Necessity of Proclamation
“There is no gospel apart from words. Nobody can be saved by watching deeds.”
Piper emphasizes the importance of verbal communication in evangelism. Language plays a critical role in communicating the Gospel.
Responsibility to the Lost
“Every saved person this side of heaven owes the gospel to every lost person this side of hell.”
Platt’s quote underscores the responsibility of believers to share the Gospel. It motivates action by highlighting the eternal consequences of not sharing the Gospel.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is your mission in life quotes?
Finding your mission in life is a deeply personal journey, and there’s no single quote that encapsulates it for everyone. However, some inspiring quotes on purpose include: “The purpose of life, after all, is to live it, to taste experience to the utmost, to reach out eagerly and without fear for newer and richer experience.” – Eleanor Roosevelt. Another is: “The meaning of life is to find your gift. The purpose of life is to give it away.” – Pablo Picasso.
What is the motivation of mission?
The motivation behind a mission can vary greatly depending on the context. For individuals, it might stem from a desire to make a difference, pursue a passion, or leave a lasting legacy. For organizations, the motivation is driven by a desire to solve a problem, fulfill a need, or achieve a specific goal. Ultimately, the motivation behind a mission is what fuels the dedication and effort required to see it through.
What is a famous quote about vision and mission?
A powerful quote encapsulating the essence of vision and mission is: “A leader has the vision and conviction that a dream can be achieved. He inspires the power and energy to get it done.” – Ralph Nader. This quote highlights that vision provides the direction and the mission provides the roadmap for how to get there.
Closing Thoughts
The quotes we’ve explored reveal some common themes: obedience to God’s call, a willingness to sacrifice, and a global vision that extends beyond our own comfortable lives. They also underscore the vital role that local churches play in supporting missionaries and mission work.
In our contemporary world, the urgency and importance of missions remain as relevant as ever. Vast numbers of people have yet to hear the Gospel, and many more live in places where they have limited access to Christian community and resources. We must not forget that Jesus calls each of us to play a part in fulfilling the Great Commission.
So, how will you respond? Will you commit to praying for missionaries and unreached people groups? Will you give generously to support mission work? Will you consider going on a short-term or long-term mission trip? Or will you find ways to send and support others who are called to go? Let the examples of those who have gone before us inspire you to commit to making disciples of all nations.