The Power of Words: Why Missionary Quotations Still Matter
For generations, missionary quotations have served as a guiding light, offering encouragement, challenge, and a powerful sense of purpose to Christians around the world. These carefully chosen words distill the very essence of faith, sacrifice, and the unwavering commitment demanded by cross-cultural ministry.
To truly appreciate the weight of these missionary quotations, it’s important to understand the historical context in which they were spoken and the lives of the individuals who uttered them. Recognizing the challenges and triumphs of past missionaries deepens our understanding and appreciation for their enduring messages.
In this article, we’ll explore the key themes and concepts found within missionary quotations, examining the wisdom and insights shared by prominent missionaries and Christian leaders throughout history. We will also explore how these words can inspire and empower us today.
The Biblical Foundation for Missions
The Great Commission, found in Matthew 28:19-20, is the core reason for missionary work: “Go therefore and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit, teaching them to observe all that I have commanded you.” It’s not a suggestion; it’s a direct order.
Even in the Old Testament, we see God’s intention for his message to reach all people. His covenant with Abraham in Genesis 12:3 states, “In you all the families of the earth shall be blessed.”
Ultimately, missionary work comes down to obedience. As Hudson Taylor famously said, “God isn’t looking for people of great faith, but for individuals ready to follow Him.”
Key Themes in Missionary Quotations
Missionary quotations often circle around a few recurring themes. Here are some of the most prominent.
Sacrifice and Self-Denial
Missionaries often emphasize prioritizing God’s work above all else, including their own personal desires. This theme often involves a willingness to endure hardship for the sake of spreading the Gospel.
- “If Jesus Christ be God and died for me, then no sacrifice can be too great for me to make for Him.” —C.T. Studd
- “I cared not where or how I lived, or what hardships I went through, so that I could but gain souls to Christ.” —David Brainerd
Faith and Dependence on God
Another common theme is trust in God’s provision and support, and recognizing God’s sovereignty even in difficult circumstances.
- “God’s work done in God’s way will never lack God’s supply.” – Hudson Taylor
- “Never be afraid to trust an unknown future to a known God.” – Corrie Ten Boom
The Urgency of Evangelism
Many missionary quotes highlight the importance of sharing the Gospel with those who haven’t yet heard it, often underscoring the eternal consequences of rejecting Christ.
- “The gospel is only good news if it gets there in time.” (Carl F.H. Henry)
- “Every saved person this side of heaven owes the gospel to every lost person this side of hell.” (David Platt)
Inspiring Quotes from Prominent Missionaries
Missionaries throughout history have offered profound insights into faith, service, and sacrifice. Here are some inspiring quotes from some of the most well-known missionaries.
William Carey: The Father of Modern Missions
Carey, a British Baptist missionary, is credited with starting the modern missionary movement in the late 18th century. He served in India and translated the Bible into several Indian languages.
- “Expect great things from God. Attempt great things for God.”
- “When I am gone, say nothing about William Carey—speak only about William Carey’s Saviour.”
- “I’m not afraid of failure; I’m afraid of succeeding at things that don’t matter.”
Hudson Taylor: Pioneer of Inland China
Taylor founded the China Inland Mission (now OMF International) and dedicated his life to reaching the interior of China with the Gospel.
- “God’s work done in God’s way will never lack God’s supply.”
- “The Great Commission is not an option to be considered; it is a command to be obeyed.”
- “China is not to be won for Christ by quiet, ease-loving men and women…The stamp of men and women we need is such as will put Jesus, China, and souls first and foremost in everything and at every time—even life itself must be secondary.”
C.T. Studd: From Cricket Star to Missionary
Studd, a wealthy British cricketer, gave up his fortune to become a missionary in China, India, and Africa.
- “Only one life, ’twill soon be past; Only what’s done for Christ will last.”
- “Some wish to live within the sound of church and chapel bell. I want to run a rescue shop within a yard of hell!”
- “If Jesus Christ be God and died for me, then no sacrifice can be too great for me to make for Him.”
Jim Elliot: Martyr for the Gospel
Elliot was an American missionary who was killed in Ecuador while attempting to reach the Waodani tribe with the Gospel.
- “He is no fool who gives what he cannot keep to gain what he cannot lose.”
- “Missionaries are very human folks, just doing what they are asked. Simply a bunch of nobodies trying to exalt Somebody.”
The Church’s Role in Global Missions
Most Christians agree that the Church is God’s primary tool for spreading the Gospel. As Oswald J. Smith put it, “Any church not involved in the Great Commission has forfeited its Biblical right to exist.” That’s a strong statement, but it highlights the importance of missions to the global Church.
Missionaries depend on the Church for support. This means prayer, financial contributions, and simple encouragement. Without the support of their sending churches, missionaries cannot sustain themselves.
Each Christian has a responsibility to participate in missions, whether it’s supporting missionaries financially, going on short-term trips, or consistently praying for those who haven’t heard the Gospel.
Frequently Asked Questions
What to say to encourage missionaries
Encourage missionaries by expressing your gratitude for their service and sacrifices. Acknowledge their hard work and dedication, and let them know you’re praying for their well-being, safety, and success in sharing the gospel. Offer specific examples of how their work has impacted others or strengthened your own faith.
What do you write in a missionary card
In a missionary card, write a personal message expressing your support and appreciation. Include a favorite scripture or quote that inspires you, and share a positive thought or prayer. Offer words of encouragement and let them know you’re thinking of them. A small financial gift can also be a thoughtful gesture.
What is a good sentence for missionaries
A good sentence for missionaries is: “Your dedication to serving others and sharing the gospel is an inspiration to us all, and we’re so grateful for your tireless efforts.” Or, “We admire your courage and commitment, and we’re praying for you to have strength, guidance, and joy in your service.”
What is a powerful missionary quote
A powerful missionary quote is, “The greatest missionary is the Bible in the mother tongue. It needs no furlough and is never considered a foreigner.” This quote emphasizes the importance of making scripture accessible to all people in their native language, highlighting the transformative power of God’s word.
In Closing
The missionary quotations we’ve explored offer enduring insights into faith, sacrifice, and the urgent call to share the Gospel. These words, spoken and written by individuals dedicated to spreading their faith, continue to resonate and inspire Christians today.
But how can we apply these lessons to our own lives? How can we, in our own way, participate in fulfilling the Great Commission? Perhaps it’s through supporting missionary work, engaging in local outreach, or simply living a life that reflects the love and compassion of Christ.
As John Piper said, “Missions is not the ultimate goal of the church. Worship is. Missions exists because worship doesn’t.” Let us remember that the transformative power of missions stems from a desire to share the joy and hope found in worship and faith with a world in need.