God’s presence and dwelling place among mankind has always been a thing. It is deeply embedded into who He is, His mission, and how he connects with His creation. God’s presence is stitched into the biblical narrative so that it is clearly part of His story.
Eden was the dwelling place of God, and God commissioned Adam and Eve to expand the boundaries of that dwelling place to fill the earth (Genesis 1:28). While God’s original call seemed to be thwarted by sin, God continues to establish his dwelling place in different forms which will shown throughout this devotional.
God continued to establish his dwelling place among the patriarchs until the building of the tabernacle and temple. After Solomon’s temple was destroyed, the prophets anticipate the coming of a new and expanding temple, and these prophecies would be fulfilled in Jesus and the church. The church as the dwelling place of God would expand until one day it filled the entire heaven and earth—the entire cosmos would become the dwelling place of God.
The mission of God did not begin with the Great Commission recorded in Matthew 28:18-20, but mission is God’s heartbeat from Genesis 1 until the new heaven and earth become the dwelling place of God in Revelation 21–22. This grand picture of the whole earth filled with God’s presence fulfills God’s original intention from the sanctuary of Eden. So that is where we begin.
Before going to the field, I had 8 years of Bible College and Seminary training. I also served as an assistant pastor in a church that would become our sending church. With all this experience and knowledge, there were still somethings that I wish I had knew or learned more deeply before going to the mission field.
We come to the mission field with our thoughts and beliefs. Often times, as events happen on the field, we are wrestling with those thoughts and beliefs in real time.
This book explores some of the key theologies that make more sense to cultivate before living on the mission field. It’s not that you have to have it all figured out and be one-hundred percent certain before going to the field, but that you’re on the path and have put some thought into it.
The book came together as a conversation with other laborers on the field. We discussed what we wished we had given more thought to before arriving. The actual development of the book was more of a devotional exercise.
Each chapter has four or five main focuses:
Biblical Reflection. Scan the Bible from cover to cover on a particular topic. This is not meant to be an exhaustive study, but it will be sufficient to get one digging.
Importance. Explore ”Why” this topic needs the focus or attention for a pioneer missionary on the field.
Prayer Action. Take the topic to the Lord in prayer. Every thread of Scripture is meant to draw us to the Lord and make us more like Him.
Building a Practical Mini-Theology. Take what you have learned and personalize it for the kind of pioneer you want to be on the field. This is important work for practical theologians and ambassadors of God’s kingdom.
Ways… it looks on the field. See some of the common ways this topic of theology is exercised on the field.
At the end of each study there will be a short list of resources to dig even deeper into the topic of theology.
My hope is that this book will first spark intentional and deeper thinking about some core beliefs and theology before going to the mission field. These topics have been worker vetted and tested.
Second, I hope it stirs fruitful conversations between co-laborers, mentors, and team members. Theology cultivated in isolation will miss helpful pollination that happens when done with others.
Third, I hope the outcome of these studies will anchor mission laborers to the powerful Word of God and a joyful connection with their Father. Especially, in the crucible that is the mission field.
Coming back to these topics from time to time even while on the field has been so rich for my soul. It has also cultivated hearty conversations with other laborers and local believers in the field.
We live in a day of minis—mini-pizzas, mini-skirts, mini-golf, mini-fridges, mini-buses. We want what is bite-sized, itsy-bitsy, and cutesy. Humans have an innate attraction to tiny things.
“Mini” theologies are not making small the things of God. There is nothing mini about theology or the study of God. There is nothing small about the mission task. Our task, which is often referred to as the Great Commission, is a global task that can’t be tackled in human strength.
What it is.
A mini-theology takes a smaller thread or theme of Scripture and seeks to make sense of it. It is theology made practical, memorable, and livable. This isn’t meant to be exhaustive systematic theology, but a guide to dig deeper into topics of biblical theology that are practical for laborers who are heading to or already living on the mission field.
The various mini-theologies are topics that many laborers wish they had learned and chewed on more before going to the field. No one will be 100% ready, however a lack of attention to these areas of theology have caused pain and pushed many off of the field prematurely.
When is the best timing?
The order of studies is just a suggestion. They can be done in any order or stand-alone. The first half is suggested to be completed before going to the field. The second half is suggested to be completed within the laborer’s first term on the field.
Some might even find value in revisiting these theological topics periodically throughout their life on the field. Your views may morph with time, experience, and maturity. While your theological framework will likely remain the same some practical aspects of that theology will shift and get shaped by life on the field. That’s why it’s important to work through these mini-theologies more than once.
With someone else.
These mini-theological studies are not meant to be done in isolation but with someone other than just yourself. We learn best within a community. Remember, these are practical mini-theologies. To get practical, one must practice among a community or team.
It is suggested that before being on the field you walk through the first half of the guide with a pastor, team leader, mentor, or pre-field coach. It is then suggested that after arriving on the field with a co-laborer, team leader, or mission mentor.
What to expect.
Expect to be connected with God. Theology is ultimately the study of God. Expect to get to know God better. Expect to be intimacy with him. As you prepare to go to the nation; go with God and a greater understanding how to go and stay well.
Each study will be simple, short, and hopefully memorable. Each study will include a short story from the field, biblical reflection, the Why, prayer action, interactive questions to build a mini-theology, and recommended resources for digging deeper. Now get going!Who is a Pioneer Missionary?
How did you hear the gospel? Likely someone brought the gospel to you, where you lived. Since the first century, the church has sent out missionaries to various places on the globe. These were ordinary humans who obeyed the command to “go” to the ends of the earth and preach the gospel. Many of those missionaries were pioneers.
While the hope of the gospel has been spreading for thousands of years, billions of people have not yet had an opportunity to hear it. These are the unreached, members of ethnic groups without a self-sustaining witness to the gospel in their own culture.
Who is a pioneer missionary? Pioneer missionaries are those who go to regions of the world where no other previous Christians had gone before. They use innovative and creative means to bring the gospel to the world’s unreached people groups. Pioneers go to some of the hardest and darkest places on earth to bring the good news of Jesus Christ to those who had never heard.
The apostle Paul was a pioneer missionary. He said, “I make it my ambition to preach the gospel, not where Christ has already been named, lest I build on someone else’s foundation” (Romans 15:20).
Many other pioneer missionaries have inspired us through the centuries (e.g. Brainerd, Carey, Judson, Paton, Taylor, Slessor, Elliot, Bruchko, Andrew). These people were by no means perfect, fully prepared, or fully equipped for the life they would live. Their faith was tested and tried countless times through endurance and suffering, and many were on the verge of giving up. Yet because of their obedience to God, their stories continue to motivate us to go today.
There came an insidious temptation—a striving for success. Mark found himself subtly crafting his prayer letters to highlight the few, dramatic breakthroughs, downplaying the years of quiet, unseen labor. He shared photos of large gatherings, even if only a handful were genuinely interested in the gospel. He found himself subtly comparing his “fruit” to other missionaries, feeling a pang of pride when he had a “good story” and a sense of guilt when he didn’t. He wanted his supporters and colleagues to be impressed, to see him as “successful,” the one who was truly “making a difference.” And for a time, it worked. The numbers looked good on paper, the photos told a convincing story. But the focus subtly shifted from God being glorified through his faithfulness to Mark being praised through his results. He started to believe that if he could just show enough “success,” the gnawing pressure would finally ease, and he could finally feel approved, productive… and perhaps, even at peace. But that peace never came.
There can be a temptation to prove our work, embellish the stories, highlight “wins” or numbers, and show more than we are doing. We can minimize the often long, slow, and seemingly unproductive periods – the unglamorous, messy realities where true growth often happens. This can lead to zeroing in on exciting stories rather than the grinding, unglamorous path of faithfulness and obedience that God asks of us, which, paradoxically, leads to His kind of fruitfulness within the mess.
BIBLICAL REFLECTION ON SUCCESS
“Success” can be a profound source of motivation or, if misunderstood, deep disillusionment. The world’s metrics often clash with God’s. A biblical theology of success can help pioneers maintain joy, perseverance, and a healthy perspective amid the demands of cross-cultural ministry.
God defines and empowers success. From a biblical perspective, success is ultimately tied to God’s faithfulness and promises, not solely human effort. (Deuteronomy 7:9; Psalm 36:5; 1 Corinthians 1:9) When God gives a command and a mission, His definition of success involves faithfulness and obedience to the task according to His will and by His enablement. (Isaiah 55:11; Philippians 1:6; John 15:5)
God asks of us faithfulness and obedience. While God accomplishes the outcome, our role is clear: to be faithful and obedient. Our “success” in God’s eyes is primarily measured by our diligent, obedient response to His commands and our faithful stewardship of the gifts and opportunities He provides, regardless of the visible “results.” (Matthew 25:21; 1 Corinthians 4:2; Luke 16:10)
God has a different metric for success. Often the world measures by visible results, numbers (disciples, churches), financial gain, power, recognition, influence, comfort, or rapid growth. Failure is seen as the absence of these. The pioneer views success primarily by faithfulness to God’s call, obedience to His commands, and conformity to Christ’s character, irrespective of immediate or visible outcomes. God’s metric is internal (heart), not external (appearance or worldly status). How often do we forget this in our own lives, caught in the world’s endless tallying? Biblical “success” can even involve apparent “failure” or death, leading to greater long-term fruit. (1 Samuel 16:7; Galatians 1:10; John 12:24)
God makes us fruitful. God gives the capacity for fruitfulness by creating the potential for life, growth, and productivity within creation and by empowering people to fulfill His purposes. This includes the physical world, where God designed land to produce plants, animals to multiply, and humanity to be fruitful. Furthermore, God’s provision extends to spiritual fruitfulness, enabling believers to live out their faith and make an impact on the world and His kingdom. (Genesis 1:28; 2:15-20; Deuteronomy 28:1-4; John 15:5, 16; Galatians 5:22-23; Psalm 1:1-3)
Abiding is the source of fruitfulness: Jesus explicitly states, “I am the vine; you are the branches. If you remain in me and I in you, you will bear much fruit; apart from me you can do nothing” (John 15:5). True fruitfulness is not something we conjure up through our own effort or genius, but it is the overflow of Christ’s life flowing through us as we remain intimately connected to Him.
Producing fruit of character: The first and most fundamental kind of fruit is the transformation of our inner character to be more like Christ. Galatians 5:22-23 lists the “fruit of the Spirit”: love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, and self-control. This character fruit is evidence of God’s work in us.
Growing in the fruit of righteousness: As our character is transformed, it naturally expresses itself in actions that honor God and bless others. These are “good works” that God has prepared in advance for us to do (Ephesians 2:10). This includes acts of service, compassion, and justice.
Fruit of the harvest: As we abide in Christ and live out His character, the Holy Spirit works through us to draw others to Him, leading to disciples and the formation of new communities of faith (John 4:35-36, Romans 1:13). This is the harvest fruit that pioneers long to see. Ultimately, all fruitfulness redounds to the glory of God. Jesus said, “This is to my Father’s glory, that you bear much fruit, showing yourselves to be my disciples” (John 15:8). Our fruitfulness points to His power and goodness, not our own.
God redeems failure. God’s view of “failure” is profoundly redemptive and gracious, not condemning. When we stumble, when our plans crumble, God doesn’t abandon us. Instead, He steps into that very space, saying ‘But God…’ He doesn’t see setbacks as final defeats but as opportunities for growth, learning, and verifying His power. God’s response to our shortcomings and sins is always grace and forgiveness when we repent. He doesn’t hold our failures against us when we are in Christ. (Romans 8:1; 1 John 1:9) Failures that aren’t sinful often serve as powerful teachers, revealing our weaknesses, increasing our dependence on God, and refining our character. (Romans 8:28; 2 Corinthians 12:9-10; John 21)
What other Scriptures or biblical aspects come to mind when you consider “success”? Take a few moments to look up 1-2 of these verses and journal what the Lord highlights for you.
“You did not choose me, but I chose you and appointed you so that you might go and bear fruit—fruit that will last.” — John 15:16
THE IMPORTANCE OF BEING FAITHFUL, BEING OBEDIENT, AND BEARING FRUIT
While many will define success by visible results, performance, and numbers, God defines success by inward faithfulness, obedience, and fruitfulness, which cannot be seen as clearly as numbers of disciples, churches planted, or movements launched. Yet what may be invisible to human eyes pleases the Lord, and that’s what matters most. To be successful, then, we must be faithful to Him, be obedient to Him, and bear His fruit.
Faithfulness as a Foundation:
Commitment to God’s Word: Faithfulness begins with a deep commitment to God’s Word and His revealed will. Pioneer missionaries must be grounded in Scripture, seek to understand God’s commands, and intently live out the truth.
Character of Dependability and Trustworthiness: Faithfulness is rooted in the unchanging faithfulness of God Himself. He is utterly reliable, true to His promises, and consistent in His character. Faithfulness implies being dependable and trustworthy in all aspects of life and ministry. This includes fulfilling commitments, maintaining integrity, and being honest in interactions with others.
Growing Perseverance: Faithfulness enables pioneers to walk through challenges, setbacks, and discouragements, remaining steadfast to the mission. Focusing on external results (which are mainly beyond our control) in difficult fields leads to exhaustion and departing the field prematurely. Faithfulness, however, is always attainable by God’s grace. This enables missionaries to endure seasons of apparent “failure” or slow growth, knowing their labor is not in vain in the Lord (1 Corinthians 15:58).
Obedience as a Pathway:
Don’t do nothing. Sometimes there is just so much to be done that we don’t know where to start obeying. It can be tough to do anything. Some will freeze by the fear of failing and think their job is so big they’d rather do nothing than do something wrong. Don’t forget, missions is not about missionaries, it is about God. He can do everything Himself. He chooses to use missionaries. Submit to God, just do something, don’t fear failing, learn, improve, and glorify God.
Don’t do everything. One of the fastest paths to burnout and short-lived mission experiences is the pioneer who can’t say no to those they serve, supporting churches, or fellow missionaries. They try to “earn” the favor of their financial partners by working long days without rest. Every missionary wants to be a good investment, but working themself sick or crazy is bad for everyone. To stop thinking God can’t do it without them obeying takes humility. Risk-Taking: Obedience may involve taking risks and stepping outside of comfort zones, trusting that God will guide and provide for them.
Fruitfulness as a Result:
Glorifies God: Fruitfulness is ultimately God demonstrating His power and grace through the lives of missionaries. Faithfulness and obedience attribute all true fruit and transformation to God, joyfully giving Him the glory He deserves. God is the fruit giver. We are the fruit bearers.
Joy and Reward: God always blesses obedience. While fruitfulness is not the primary motivation, it brings joy and a sense of reward as we see the impact of our work in us or around us. Fruitfulness is the result of connecting and abiding with Jesus. (John 15:4–5)
Produces Tangible Results: Fruitfulness is the natural outcome of faithfulness and obedience. It manifests in the sanctification of the pioneer, the transformation of believers, and the establishment of healthy churches. Jesus used the analogy that “you will know them by their fruit.” (Matthew 7:16-20) Inward transformation leads to outward results. In other words, a pioneer or disciple’s true character and faith will be revealed and identified by their actions, behaviors, and the consistent outcomes of their life.
Interconnectedness unto Success:
Faithfulness as a Means to Fruitfulness: Faithfulness how missionaries pursue fruitfulness. By remaining faithful to God’s Word and His leading, they create an environment where fruitfulness can flourish.
Obedience as the Foundation for Faithfulness: Obedience is the foundation upon which faithfulness is built. Without obedience, faithfulness becomes inconsistent and unreliable.
Fruitfulness as a Validation of Faithfulness and Obedience: Fruitfulness provides a tangible confirmation that the missionary is on the right path and is effectively fulfilling God’s purposes.
A right view of success, rooted in God’s faithfulness and the pioneer’s obedience, liberates the missionary to serve with joy, seeing that God alone gives the increase and fruit.
PRAYER ACTION
Consider the Scriptures you cling to above. Consider success. Write a prayer for the kind of person you want to be.
BUILDING A PRACTICAL MINI-THEOLOGY OF SUCCESS
Take some time to prayerfully draft your practical mini-theology of “success” by responding to these questions:
What is success in God’s eyes? How is that different than the world’s view of success?
example: God is… We are the kind of people who… It is most like us/me to… We/I will… We/I hold to…
How does God measure success? What does faithfulness and obedience look like? How does God use failure?
How does God provide fruitfulness? What does fruit look like?
Once you finish, share your responses with your mentor. Ask for feedback. Adjust your draft as needed.
For a pioneer missionary, faithfulness, obedience, and fruitfulness are not separate entities but rather interconnected aspects of a holistic approach to ministry. Faithfulness and obedience are essential for a fruitful life and effective ministry, and they are how missionaries bring glory to God.
Christ-likeness (Fruit of the Spirit): A pioneer’s patience, love, joy, and peace in difficult circumstances (isolation, cultural stress, persecution) are a powerful testimony. Their character becomes a living testament to Christ.
Steady Witness: A missionary who is genuinely faithful and obedient, even amidst hardship, is more credible than one who only boasts of numbers. When “success” is measured by God’s faithfulness, it prevents pride in visible achievements and fosters humility.
Honesty and Transparency: Exaggerating numbers or fabricating stories in reports to maintain support or impress others is a form of lying and dishonesty. A faithful pioneer will genuinely be okay with seasons of fruitlessness, even failure, seeing that God is the One who brings breakthrough.
Faithful Seed Sowing: Sharing the Gospel, discipling individuals (even if only one or two), translating Scripture, building relationships, and praying for breakthroughs, even if immediate “fruit” is not evident.
Deeper-Level Discipleship: Pressure to produce numbers can lead to “conversions” without genuine repentance or discipleship. Local disciples may adopt a similar false view of success, leading to legalism, comparison, and a lack of grace-driven living.
Healthy Church Growth: Churches built on human-driven metrics rather than Spirit-led faithfulness may lack true spiritual vitality and long-term sustainability. Servant-based approaches garner greater and deeper growth.
Elias arrived in the remote mountain village, his heart burning with the urgency of the gospel. For years, his focus had been singular: bring the good news of salvation to those who had never heard. His days were consumed with pouring out, convinced that his own spiritual well was perpetually full simply by being the messenger.
However, in his relentless pursuit of the lost, Elias began to subtly neglect the gospel’s daily relevance for himself. His personal quiet times became hurried, duty-bound checks rather than genuine encounters with grace. He proclaimed forgiveness and new life but found himself increasingly cynical about the slow pace of change, quick to judge the villagers’ shortcomings, and privately battling waves of discouragement and spiritual dryness. The gospel, for Elias, had become a powerful tool for them—a one-off transaction for salvation, rather than the lifelong bread he himself needed to feast on daily. He was giving out living water but forgetting to drink from the well himself.
BIBLICAL REFLECTION ON THE GOSPEL
The gospel is good news. The central message of the gospel is the “good news” of what God has done through Jesus Christ to rescue people from sin and reconcile us to Himself, for His glory. It is the declaration that God, in His forever love and holiness, has provided the way for broken people to be made right with Him, to receive forgiveness, new life, and eternal fellowship. (Romans 3:23-24; John 3:16; 1 Corinthians 15:3-4)
The gospel is authored by God. The gospel is a message that God wrote to mankind. The gospel is God’s initiative, His plan, and His power at work. It is not a human invention or philosophy. Not only is God the author, but He is also the main character in His own story. (Romans 1:1-2; Ephesians 2:8-9)
Essential elements of the gospel message:
God created. God is the sovereign Creator of all things. He is the author of life and the universe, establishing His perfect plan and glory. Humans were created in His image, designed for a relationship with Him, and to reflect His glory. (Genesis 1:1; 1:27; Psalm 19:1)
Man separated.This perfect relationship was broken by sin. All people have rebelled against God, falling short of His glory. This sin creates a profound separation between God and humanity, leading to spiritual death and a state of lostness. (Romans 3:23; 6:23a; Isaiah 59:2)
Jesus redeemed. Because humanity could not bridge this gap on its own, God, in His forever love and holiness, intervened. Jesus Christ, God’s one and only Son, came to redeem humanity. He lived a perfect life, died on the cross as a sacrifice for our sins according to the Scriptures, and was resurrected from the dead on the third day, conquering sin and death. This act of redemption by Jesus was God’s powerful initiative to make us right with Him. (John 3:16; Romans 5:8; 1 Corinthians 15:3-4; 2 Corinthians 5:21)
Man must respond. The gospel is not just a passive story; it requires a response. Any response must be initiated and empowered by God. The response is to repent of sin, believe in Jesus Christ, and receive His redemption by grace through faith. This response leads to salvation, forgiveness of sins, new life, and a lifelong journey of transformation where we continue to live our lives rooted and built up in Him, overflowing with thankfulness. (Acts 16:31; Ephesians 2:8-9; Romans 10:9-10; John 1:12)
The gospel is for everyone (even missionaries). The gospel is universally applicable, breaking down all barriers of ethnicity, social status, or perceived spiritual standing. No one is exempt from its daily need. (Galatians 3:28; Romans 3:22)
The gospel isn’t just a message we need as a one-off, but lifelong. The Gospel is not just the message that saves us once; it is the truth that continues to sanctify, sustain, and motivate us daily. We preach the gospel to ourselves every day. (Philippians 1:6; Colossians 2:6-7)
The gospel affects all of life all the time. The gospel transforms not just our eternal destiny but every facet of our present existence—our identity, relationships, motivations, thoughts, and actions. As Timothy Keller described, “The gospel is not just the ABCs but the A to Z of the Christian life.” It is not confined to a “spiritual” compartment but permeates all of life. (Romans 12:2; Colossians 3:17)
The gospel is meant to be spread. The good news is primarily spread through proclamation and demonstration, empowered by the Holy Spirit, and carried out by God’s people in various contexts around the world. The gospel is not just a message to be heard, but a life to be seen. When people are genuinely transformed by the gospel, their changed character and actions become a compelling witness. (Romans 10:14-15; Matthew 28:19-20; Acts 2:14, 22-24, 36-41; Matthew 5:16; 1 Peter 2:12; 2 Corinthians 3:2-3)
What other Scriptures or biblical aspects come to mind when you consider “the gospel”? Take a few moments to look up 1-2 of these verses and journal what the Lord highlights for you.
“For I am not ashamed of the gospel, for it is the power of God for salvation to everyone who believes.” — Romans 1:16-17
THE IMPORTANCE OF THE GOSPEL
The Gospel message is of paramount importance for several critical reasons, impacting both individual lives and the world at large. It’s not merely one truth among many, but the central, life-giving message. It is the power of God for salvation and ongoing life transformation.
God’s Command: The Great Commission is a direct mandate from Christ to His followers. (Matthew 28:19-20)
Only Hope for Humanity: Apart from the gospel, people remain lost in sin, separated from God, and without eternal hope. (Acts 4:12)
Brings God Glory: As people are saved and transformed, God’s power, love, and wisdom are displayed, bringing Him the praise and worship He deserves. (2 Thessalonians 1:12)
The gospel is not just a message proclaimed; it is a reality lived, impacting both the messenger and the receiver.
Impact on the Messenger:
Sustains Identity: Reminds the missionary that their worth is in Christ, not their performance or perceived success in the field (2 Corinthians 5:17).
Fuels Perseverance: In the face of spiritual warfare, loneliness, or slow progress, the gospel’s truth about Christ’s victory and God’s faithfulness provides the fuel needed to stay longer and healthier (Hebrews 12:2-3).
Promotes Humility: The gospel reminds missionaries that salvation is by grace, preventing pride in their own efforts and fostering dependence on God (Ephesians 2:8-9).
Impact on the Receiver (Individuals & Communities):
Radical Life Transformation: Individuals are freed from the power of sin, idolatry, and spiritual darkness, leading to new behaviors, worldviews, and desires (Acts 26:18, Colossians 1:13-14).
Reconciliation and Unity: The gospel breaks down ethnic, social, and relational barriers, fostering genuine community and “one anothering” among diverse people (Galatians 3:28, Ephesians 2:14-16).
Holistic Flourishing: As hearts are transformed, it often leads to fruitful changes in families, ethics, education, health, and social justice within the community, demonstrating the Kingdom of God (Matthew 5:16).
Indigenous Church Growth: Transformed individuals become disciples who make disciples, leading to the organic growth and multiplication of local, self-sustaining churches.
The Gospel is the dynamic, living power of God. As pioneer mission workers, you are privileged to carry this message, knowing that it is not merely words, but the very breath of God bringing life and transformation to the ends of the earth.
PRAYER ACTION
Consider the Scriptures you cling to above. Consider the gospel. Write a prayer for the kind of person you want to be who lives the gospel.
BUILDING A PRACTICAL MINI-THEOLOGY OF GOOD NEWS
Take some time to prayerfully draft your practical mini-theology of “the gospel” by responding to these questions:
What is the gospel? Why is it important to articulate the gospel clearly and simply?
example: God is… We are the kind of people who… It is most like us/me to… We/I will… We/I hold to…
How is the gospel more than a message? What other parts of life does the gospel affect?
How is the gospel for unbelievers, new disciples, and long-time followers? How is the gospel more than the ABCs of our faith, but the A-Zs?
Once you finish, share your responses with your mentor. Ask for feedback. Adjust your draft as needed.
The small mission team in Northern Africa was a microcosm of the “one another” challenge. Amy, the meticulous planner, grew frustrated with Abe’s spontaneous, often chaotic, approach to ministry. Abe, in turn, found Amy’s rigidity stifling, feeling judged and rejected, and he often retreated. Their unspoken tensions, fueled by weariness and cultural stress, created a subtle but palpable chill that affected their joint work. They were physically together, but relationally drifting.
This internal friction inevitably bled into their interactions with locals. When a new disciple, Ahmed, struggled with consistency due to complex family obligations, Amy saw it as a lack of discipline; her “God-sight” was clouded by her own unmet expectations. Abe, while more empathetic, sometimes over-identified, failing to offer the gentle admonishment Ahmed needed. The team’s inability to fully “one another” internally made it harder to extend that same when discipling Ahmed, who sensed something was off.
Forming, storming, norming, and performing are the common stages of team development. Oftentimes, God puts together people who wouldn’t normally be friends and calls them to work together in the same field on the same mission. One anothering, maintaining peace, unity, and servant-heartedness become work in itself.
BIBLICAL REFLECTION ON COMMUNITY
The summons to “one another” is not merely a suggestion for harmonious living, but a divine imperative and a powerful witness. In the unique pressures of cross-cultural ministry, your relationships with teammates and local contacts are both your greatest resource and a crucial battleground. Understanding and actively living out the “one another” commands is essential for flourishing and effective ministry.
God models community and togetherness. Woven into the very fabric of God’s nature is a design for relational living over isolation. Community is a reflection of God Himself. God is not a solitary being but a communion of three co-equal Persons—Father, Son, and Holy Spirit—who exist in perfect, eternal relationship, love, and unity. This divine “togetherness” is the ultimate blueprint for all created community. (Deuteronomy 6:4; Matthew 28:19; John 17:21)
Man was created for relationships. From the beginning, God designed humanity for interdependence, declaring “It is not good for the man to be alone” (Genesis 2:18). This foundational truth extends profoundly into the Christian life, where believers are called into a spiritual family, the Body of Christ. We are not meant to operate as isolated units; our collective strength, wisdom, and witness are found in our unity and mutual service. (Ecclesiastes 4:9-10; Romans 12:4-5; John 13:35)
The Church is God’s redeemed community. The Church, the Body of Christ, is God’s primary means of demonstrating restored community on earth. It is a diverse assembly of individuals, united by the Holy Spirit through faith in Christ, called to live in active interdependence and mutual love. This spiritual family is meant to be a multiplying and living testament to the power of the gospel to reconcile and unite. (Romans 12:4-5; Ephesians 4:1-3; Acts 2:42-47)
God sends people together to demonstrate His heart. We believe that God calls us into His mission together, never alone. Biblical community is not an end in itself, but a means to flourishing and a powerful witness to the world. Jesus Himself, the ultimate missionary, consistently modeled team ministry. He didn’t send His disciples out alone, but in pairs. This was not merely a practical strategy but a reflection of God’s relational nature and the power found in unity. (Mark 6:7; Luke 10:1) The early church, empowered by the Holy Spirit, continued this pattern. The first recorded missionary sending from a local church involved a team, not an individual. (Acts 13:1-3; Philippians 4:3; 2 Corinthians 8:23)
Man is commanded to “one another.” The numerous “one another” commands in the New Testament provide a practical framework for Christian community and discipleship. They can be broadly summarized into four interconnected categories, each essential for healthy relationships and a powerful witness.
Love One Another. This is the overarching command that underpins all others. It is the defining characteristic of Christ’s disciples and the ultimate expression of our transformed lives. (John 13:34-35; Romans 13:8; 1 Peter 4:8; 1 John 4:7)
Bond with One Another. God calls His people to strive for unity, even amid divinely designed diversity in the Body. These commands emphasize the importance of maintaining peace, harmony, and a shared purpose within the Body of Christ, reflecting the unity of the Trinity. (Romans 15:7; Ephesians 4:2-3; Romans 14:19; Philippians 2:3)
Serve One Another in Humility. To need someone else is humbling. To ask for help is humbling. Not being able to do something alone is humbling. These commands call for a posture of lowliness, deference, and active servanthood towards each other, mirroring Christ’s example. (Galatians 5:13; Romans 12:10; 1 Peter 5:5; John 13:14)
Build Up One Another. The opposite would be to tear down and destroy, which is the strategy of the enemy. These commands focus on actively strengthening, supporting, and spurring each other on in faith and good works. (Hebrews 10:24-25; Romans 14:19; 1 Thessalonians 5:11; Galatians 6:2; Colossians 3:16)
Seek to See One Another as God Sees. To truly “one another,” we must cultivate “God-sight”—the ability to see fellow believers, even the unreached, as God sees them: as people created in His image, fallen yet redeemable, and deeply loved. This perspective moves beyond superficial judgments, cultural biases, or past offenses to recognize one’s inherent dignity and potential in Christ. It means looking beyond the “flesh” (their outward behavior or unrenewed nature) to the “spirit” (their created value and God’s handiwork). (1 Samuel 16:7; 2 Corinthians 5:16; Ephesians 2:10)
What other Scriptures or biblical aspects come to mind when you consider “others”? Take a few moments to look up 1-2 of these verses and journal what the Lord highlights for you.
“A new command I give you: Love one another. As I have loved you, so you must love one another. By this everyone will know that you are my disciples, if you love one another.” — John 13:34-35
THE IMPORTANCE OF ONE ANOTHERING
Actively practicing the “one another” commands is not optional; it is vital for the health of the missionary, the team, the nascent church, and the integrity of the gospel message.
Glorifying God: When believers live in unity and love, it brings glory to God, reflecting His own relational nature.
Witness a Redeemed Community: A loving, unified community is the most compelling argument for the gospel in a fragmented world. It demonstrates the transformative power of Christ in relationships.
Effective Discipleship: New believers learn how to live out their faith by observing and participating in healthy “one anothering.” It’s how the church matures and reproduces.
Overcoming Cultural Barriers: Intentional “one anothering” helps missionaries bridge cultural divides, fostering genuine understanding and empathy rather than judgment or isolation.
Spiritual Health and Resilience: Mutual encouragement, burden-bearing, and forgiveness within the team are essential for preventing disunity, combating spiritual warfare, and fostering long-term endurance.
PRAYER ACTION
Consider the Scriptures you cling to above. Consider the “one another” texts. Write a prayer for the kind of person you want to be for who considers others.
BUILDING A PRACTICAL MINI-THEOLOGY
Take some time to prayerfully draft your practical mini-theology of “others” by responding to these questions:
How am I to view others? What does it look like to have God-sight?
example: God is… We are the kind of people who… It is most like us/me to… We/I will… We/I hold to…
How am I to relate to my spiritual siblings and co-laborers? What does it mean to “one another”?
Why are we better together than alone? Why send out mission teams? Why is the way that a team loves, bonds, serves, and builds up a vital part of their work?
Once you finish, share your responses with your mentor. Ask for feedback. Adjust your draft as needed.
“Checking In” with God: Throughout your day, practice briefly pausing and “checking in” with God about your current relationships, situation, feelings, or interactions. Ask Him, “How do You see this/them?” or “What is Your perspective?” or “What needs to change in me to “one another” better?”
Scripture as Lens: Immerse yourself in the Bible, not just for information, but to understand God’s character, His ways, and His perspective on life and people. This grows God-sight. The more you know Him, the more your thoughts will “rhyme” with His. This is contrasted with “earth’s eyes,” which tend to focus on agitation, blame, and a limited human perspective.
Make One Anothering Who You Are. “One anothering” is not hypothetical, but to be actual in our family, team life, local relationships, and discipleship. Here are some ways:
Among a Team:
Encourage One Another (Hebrews 10:24-25): Regularly affirm teammates’ efforts, celebrate small victories, and speak words of life.
Bear One Another’s Burdens (Galatians 6:2): Actively listen to struggles, offer practical help (e.g., childcare, errands, covering duties during illness), and pray specifically for each other’s challenges.
Forgive One Another (Colossians 3:13): Humbly address conflicts, extend grace quickly, and refuse to hold grudges, understanding that living in close quarters will inevitably lead to offenses.
Serve One Another (Galatians 5:13): Look for opportunities to help out, share responsibilities, and put teammates’ needs before your own, even in mundane tasks.
Be Patient with One Another (Ephesians 4:2): Recognize that everyone is under pressure and adapting, extend grace for cultural missteps, language struggles, or personality quirks.
Among Local Contacts and New Believers:
Accept One Another (Romans 15:7): Embrace new believers and seekers from diverse backgrounds, welcome them into fellowship without imposing unnecessary cultural or social barriers.
Teach and Admonish One Another (Colossians 3:16): Share biblical truth, disciple patiently, and offer gentle correction, allowing God’s Word to shape their lives.
Serve One Another (Galatians 5:13): Model Christ’s servant heart by meeting practical needs in the community, demonstrating love through action, and empowering local believers to serve their own people or you too.
Pray for One Another (James 5:16): Regularly pray with and for local contacts, demonstrating dependence on God and sharing the burden of their spiritual and physical needs.
Show Hospitality to One Another (1 Peter 4:9): Open homes and lives to share meals, stories, and fellowship, building genuine relationships that transcend cultural differences.
By diligently practicing these “one another” commands, pioneer mission workers not only build healthy teams and healthy churches but also powerfully display the transformative love of Christ to a world desperately in need of true community.
Tough, isolated, off-grid, among some of the most unreached people on earth. Going where no one has gone before. Building on no man’s foundation. This is the ideal location for a pioneer mission worker.
Tom lived in a remote village of a significant tribe on the southern fringe of the Sahara alone for months. He was in the throes of learning his third language, partnering part-time on a community development project, and traveling away from his wife and small kids who were homeschooling and fielding neighbors’ demands. He was clocking 60-80 hours of work per week and still not feeling like he was doing enough. His family was struggling, and his health was diminishing. He felt anxious, weary, and guilty, but couldn’t see an alternative.
Tom’s identity was tied tightly to the place, platform, and people group around him. To be connected to the Person of Christ or his God-given roles as husband and father seemed less fulfilling or urgent. This led to deep disappointment and an identity crash, especially when the work was pulled out from underneath him and he was forced to leave the field as his wife became severely unwell. Instead of offering her compassion, he stewed angrily because he wasn’t where he wanted to be, even though it was a perfect moment to reset. Up until then, Tom had thought to himself, “I am a hardworking and faithful missionary. I am giving myself to the mission. Self-care is selfish. It can’t be biblical. Isn’t it the opposite of living by faith? I’m called to be a living sacrifice.”
BIBLICAL REFLECTION ON IDENTITY
Our true self and identity are fundamentally defined by God, not by our accomplishments, failures, feelings, or the opinions of others. This identity is established in two primary ways:
Created in God’s Image (Imago Dei). From the very beginning, humanity was uniquely fashioned in the likeness of God, endowing every person with inherent dignity, worth, and a capacity for relationship with Him. This is the foundational truth of who we are. (Genesis 1:27; Psalm 139:13-14)
True Identity as a new creation in Christ. For believers, our identity is radically transformed through salvation. God gives us a new identity. We are no longer defined by sin or our past, but by our connection with Christ. We are redeemed by the blood of Christ, reconciled with God, and regenerated to new life. (2 Corinthians 5:17; Ephesians 4:22-24)
Beware of false or secondary identities. In contrast to true identity in Christ, humans can take on “false” or “secondary” identities. These are derived from other sources, human performance, lies from the enemy, or sinful patterns, and they ultimately fail to provide lasting security, worth, or fulfillment. They become problematic when they replace or overshadow one’s primary identity in Christ. False identities can include:
Performance/Achievement: Defining oneself by success, career, ministry results, or status. (Example: “I am a [adjective] [title].”) This identity is fragile, especially when success wanes, career ends, or ministry doesn’t produce visible fruit. It leads to pride in success and despair in failure. (Galatians 6:14)
Possessions/Sensations: Defining oneself by what one has or doesn’t have. (Example: “I am wealthy,” “I am comfortable,” “I am secure.”) Stuff is fleeting and cannot provide ultimate security or satisfaction. (Luke 12:15)
Relationships/Approval: Defining oneself by what others think, by eye-service, or by one’s role in a relationship. (Example: “I am accepted/rejected,” “I am important to this person/group.”) Human approval is fickle and unreliable. It leads to people-pleasing, fear of rejection, and a constant striving for external validation. (Galatians 1:10)
Suffering/Victimhood: Defining oneself primarily by past hurts, trauma, or perceived injustices. While acknowledging pain is important for healing, allowing it to become one’s core identity can hinder growth, forgiveness, peace, and restoration. (Romans 8:1; Philippians 3:13-14)
Nationality/Ethnicity: While cultural identity is God-given and good, it becomes a danger when it defines one’s worth or creates division within the Body of Christ. It can lead to pride, prejudice, and a failure to see all people as equally made in God’s image and equally in need of Christ. (Galatians 3:28)
These false identities are menacing because they are unstable, prone to collapse, and ultimately distract us from the true, secure, and eternally satisfying identity found only in Christ. This means your worth is not tied to the number of disciples, the success of a project, or how well you navigate cultural complexities in the field. Your identity is securely established in who God says you are in Christ.
What other Scriptures or biblical aspects come to mind when you consider “identity and self”? Take a few moments to look up 1-2 of these verses and journal what the Lord highlights for you.
“Therefore, if anyone is in Christ, the new creation has come: The old has gone, the new is here!” — 2 Corinthians 5:17
THE IMPORTANCE OF CARING FOR SELF
Pioneers navigating the unique demands of serving among the unreached, understanding your “self” and anchoring your “identity” is not a luxury, but a spiritual imperative. The mission field, with its intense pressures, cultural dislocations, and spiritual battles, can profoundly challenge one’s sense of self. True identity and self-care are essential for long-term health and effectiveness.
What God says about who you are. If you are in Christ, you are adopted as God’s children, heirs with Christ, and citizens of His Kingdom. (2 Corinthians 5:17; Galatians 3:26-28; Ephesians 4:22-24; Romans 8:15-17; John 1:12; 1 John 3:1) You are forgiven, righteous, and holy in Christ. (Ephesians 1:7; 2 Corinthians 5:21; Colossians 1:22) You are chosen, beloved, and called by God. (Ephesians 1:4; Colossians 3:12; 1 Peter 2:9; Romans 8:28)
Self-care as stewardship. Caring for oneself is not inherently selfish, but a biblical principle rooted in stewardship and sustainability for God’s glory. Our bodies, minds, and spirits are temples of the Holy Spirit, entrusted to us by God. Essentially, self-care is about stewarding your life and heart through the intentional pursuit of healthy, life-giving, and restorative practices and rhythms that strengthen our love for God and others. (1 Corinthians 6:19-20; Mark 6:31; Matthew 22:39; Psalm 23:2-3; Psalm 90)
Care for self increases care for others. Pioneers, like any Christian, care for themselves not just for their good, but so that they can also care for others. We do not serve others at the expense of our health and joy. The Scripture says, “love the Lord your God with all your heart, mind, soul, and strength, and love your neighbor as you love yourself.” Many times, we either miss the last word “yourself” or overvalue it.
Care for whole self. God designed us as complex, whole persons (Psalm 139:13–16). We do not—like a computer or machine—consist of parts, but encompass spiritual, physical, mental, emotional, psychological, and relational aspects in our intricate design. When we take care of ourselves, we mustn’t target one aspect of ourselves. We need to take a holistic approach to self-care. When we care for ourselves, we express worship and gratitude to God. He gave us our ears, brains, smiles, tears, hearts, and lungs (Romans 11:36). We don’t treat our bodies as worthless and useless, but we treat ourselves with kindness as an act of gratitude to God, like the psalmist who said, “I praise You, for I am fearfully and wonderfully made. Wonderful are Your works; my soul knows it very well.”
Jesus’ invitation to take care. In John 7:37, Jesus invites those who are thirsty to come to him and drink. This is not passive but active on behalf of the one who thirsts. In John 1, Jesus calls the disciples to ‘come’ so that they could see. In Matthew 11:28-30, the disciples are asked, ‘Are you tired? Worn out? Burned out on religion? Come to me. Get away with me and you’ll recover your life. I’ll show you how to take a real rest. Walk with me and work with me—watch how I do it. Learn the unforced rhythms of grace…I won’t lay anything heavy or ill-fitting on you. Keep company with me and you’ll learn to live freely and lightly.’ These are invitations to care for oneself by meeting with God. Even Jesus gave himself time and encouraged His disciples to rest and pray amid a life of self-sacrifice (Matthew 14:13; Mark 6:30-32).
Neglecting self-care or losing sight of one’s identity in Christ can have harmful consequences for missionaries and their ministry. However, practicing care for self in a healthy way:
Maintains Holistic Health: A healthy sense of self and consistent self-care practices guard against depression, anxiety, bitterness, and spiritual dryness, enabling sustained intimacy with God.
Enhances Effectiveness and Authenticity: A well-cared-for missionary is more resilient, joyful, empathetic, and capable of serving effectively. Authenticity in sharing struggles (when appropriate) and modeling healthy Christian living is a powerful witness.
Applies One-Anothering: We put into practice the “one anothers” by not only taking care of them but also taking care of ourselves. When we take care of ourselves, we can better serve our spouse, child, neighbors, co-workers, and local disciples.
Defends the Enemy’s Arrows: The enemy often targets a missionary’s identity and well-being through lies, discouragement, and temptation. Standing firm in one’s identity in Christ and practicing self-care are vital defenses.
Models Discipleship: New believers need to see what healthy, sustainable Christian living looks like, especially in demanding contexts. Missionaries.
Mitigates Burnout and Attrition: The relentless demands of cross-cultural ministry, spiritual warfare, and isolation can quickly lead to weariness, cynicism, and departure from the field. Self-care is a preventative measure for long-term endurance.
If we don’t live out our true identity as blood-bought beloved children of God, we will live out some other inferior identity. This will cheat us out of the fullness of life.
PRAYER ACTION
Consider the Scriptures you cling to above. Consider your identity. Write a prayer for the kind of person you want to be, who lives in their true identity.
BUILDING A PRACTICAL MINI-THEOLOGY OF SELF AND IDENTITY
Take some time to prayerfully draft your practical mini-theology of “self” by responding to these questions:
Who am I in Christ? What is my true identity? What identities are primary or secondary? Why should I be concerned about false identities?
example: God is… We are the kind of people who… It is most like us/me to… We/I will… We/I hold to…
What is the proper view of self? What is an improper view of self?
Why should I care about self? What is biblical self-care amid the tension of self-sacrifice?
Once you finish, share your responses with your mentor. Ask for feedback. Adjust your draft as needed.
Self-care on the mission field is often intentional, disciplined, and sometimes creative, adapting to local realities:
Preach the Gospel to Self: Preaching the gospel to yourself daily is vital because it continually grounds your identity in Christ, fuels your spiritual resilience, and motivates grace-driven obedience, reminding you of God’s unwavering love and forgiveness amid life’s challenges.
Develop Identity Statements: Reflect on who you/we are in Christ often with yourself and your people. It is good to remind one another who you/we are frequently.
Prioritize Regular Sabbath/Rest: Intentionally set aside a day for rest, worship, and non-ministry activities, even if it means saying “no” to perceived opportunities.
Maintain Connection with God: Ensure consistent, unhurried time in prayer, in Scripture, and in worship, distinct from ministry preparation.
Create Healthy Spaces: Establish clear boundaries between work and rest, ministry, family, and personal space. Communicate these to team members and local contacts.
Physical Well-being: Be intentional to eat nutritious food (even if limited options), get adequate sleep, and engage in regular physical activity (e.g., walking, stretching, sport).
Process Stress and Trauma: Actively seek out trusted mentors, supervisors, debriefers, or counselors (remotely or in person) to process the emotional and spiritual toll of ministry and cultural living.
Pursue Hobbies and Recreation: Engage in activities that bring joy and refreshment, whether it’s reading, painting, playing music, hiking, or connecting with nature. (See Many Beautiful Things)
Maintain Home Connections: Strategically connect with family and a sending church for encouragement, prayer, and a reminder of their broader support network.
Schedule Breaks: Take planned retreats on the field and periods away from the field for rest, debriefing, and reconnecting with God and people outside your normal context.
Caring for yourself and securing your identity in Christ is not a selfish indulgence, but a sacred responsibility. It is the stewardship of God’s precious temple within you, enabling you to glorify Him personally and serve effectively for the long haul among the unreached.
It was in the third year when the novelty of field life had long worn off, that the temptation to “just get by” became a daily whisper. The local language was still a struggle, and the pioneer thought to herself, “Why spend an extra hour on grammar when I could just use simpler phrases and hope to be understood?” The community project that Mary was overseeing was functional, but far from the gleaming “It works, doesn’t it?” her mind would rationalize. “It’s better than nothing. God will bless the effort, even if it’s not perfect.”
Mary found herself cutting corners on administrative tasks, monthly prayer updates, and sometimes, letting her quiet times become hurried or slipped altogether. The fatiguing heat, the constant demands, the slow pace of everything, and the seemingly impenetrable spiritual apathy of some villagers chipped away at her resolve. She saw other workers, some who seemed to thrive, and others who were enduring. The line between “faithful perseverance” and “bare minimum survival” blurred.
One sweltering afternoon, after a particularly frustrating attempt to explain a Bible story to a local friend, Mary slumped against a mud-brick wall, feeling weary. “What’s the point?” she muttered. “I’m not good at anything here. I’m just… getting by. And who am I doing this for, anyway? Is it really for God, or just to keep my support going?”
The pursuit of excellence can become more about performance and less about devotion, a daily act of worship. The pioneer realized that excellence wasn’t about the outcome, which was God’s to give, but about the heart she brought to the task. It wasn’t about being perfect, but about offering her very best—her diligent effort in language, her care for her project, her patient presence with a curious neighbor—as an act of worship to an excellent God.
BIBLICAL REFLECTION ON EXCELLENCE
God is the ground of all true excellence. He is the one who fills any definition of excellence with meaning, and he is the reason why we cannot be content with lackluster mediocrity, halfhearted effort, or substandard service.
God is excellent in every way. God’s excellence is not merely one of His attributes; it’s an overarching quality that permeates and defines all of who He is and everything He does. It signifies His supreme and inherent superiority, perfection, and unparalleled quality in every aspect of His being and character. (Psalm 8:1; 145:3; Deuteronomy 32:4; Hebrews 1:3; 2 Peter 1:3-11)
Man’s chief end is to glorify God and enjoy Him. We are created to reflect God’s image and to declare His praises. When we live in obedience, worship Him, and make Him known, we participate in the unfolding of His glory. (Psalm 73:25-26; Isaiah 43:7; Romans 11:36; John 15:11)
“Doing all for the glory of God” is a central, transformative principle of any follower’s life. It means that every single aspect of our existence—our thoughts, words, actions, relationships, work, mundane tasks, and even our leisure—is intentionally directed towards magnifying God’s inherent worth, character, and splendor. It’s not about adding to God’s glory (as He is already infinitely glorious), but about reflecting, displaying, and acknowledging His supreme value to the world. (1 Corinthians 10:31; Colossians 3:17; Matthew 5:16)
God deserves the first and best. We should strive for excellence, knowing that our best only happens when God does it with us. When Abel brought his first and best, God was pleased. In the Psalms, King David asks musicians to employ their highest skill as they make sacred music. The prophet Malachi demands that the priests and people alike bring their finest offerings to worship. Jesus praises the woman who anoints him with rare and expensive oil. Excellence insists that we bring our first and best because when we do that it honors and pleases God. (2 Timothy 2:15; Philippians 1:9-10; Romans 12:6-8)
Excellence is fueled by grace not fear. Perfection is the idea of being without flaw or error. It often implies an unattainable or idealized standard—one that, if we are not careful, becomes more about appearance than substance. Perfection often produces fear. Excellence, on the other hand, is about doing your best with what you have. Excellence is grace-based. It is rooted in intentionality, care, and growth—not in being flawless, but in being faithful. We aim for excellence not to win applause or check every box—but to honor God, serve others well, and steward our callings with care. (Colossians 3:23; Ecclesiastes 9:10)
Biblical excellence is not a self-serving ambition but a God-centered devotion. It is the practical outworking of a heart committed to glorifying God in all things. By striving for diligence, integrity, and quality in every facet of our lives—from the most public ministry in the field to the most private thought—we become living testimonies to the character of our excellent God, drawing others to Him and fulfilling the very purpose for which we were created.
What other Scriptures or biblical aspects come to mind when you consider “excellence”? Take a few moments to look up 1-2 of these verses and journal what the Lord highlights for you.
“let your light shine before others, that they may see your good deeds and glorify your Father in heaven.” — Matthew 5:16
THE IMPORTANCE OF EXCELLENCE
In contexts where people have little to no knowledge of Christ, missionaries are often the primary, if not sole, visible representation of God. If a missionary’s life or work is characterized by mediocrity, inconsistency, or a lack of integrity, it can inadvertently communicate that the God they serve is likewise unremarkable, unreliable, or not truly worthy of devotion.
Pursuing excellence for God’s glory on the mission field isn’t about personal achievement; it’s about making God look as good as He truly is, drawing people to Him, and ensuring that His name is honored among those who have never heard.
Honors God’s Character: God Himself is a God of excellence, order, and beauty. Our striving for excellence in our work and character reflects His nature and pleases Him.
Dignity of God’s Work: The mission is God’s mission, and it deserves our utmost effort. The label of “Christian” is not an excuse for poor workmanship—in fact, it is the exact opposite. Because we report to a higher authority, we seek to serve Him with the highest-quality work possible. God asks us for our best work, not the best “Christian” version of our work. Our commitment to excellence reflects the infinite worth and majesty of the One we serve. (Titus 2:7-8; 2 Timothy 2:15; Romans 12:6-8)
Credibility and Witness: In contexts where the gospel is unfamiliar or misunderstood, the quality of your life and work speaks volumes. Shoddy work, inconsistency, or a lack of diligence can undermine your message and discredit the God you represent. Excellence builds trust and demonstrates the transformative power of Christ. Our “good deeds” lead others to “glorify your Father in heaven” (Matthew 5:16).
Stewardship of Gifts and Resources: God has entrusted each pioneer with unique gifts, skills, time, and financial resources. Excellence is about being a faithful steward, maximizing the impact of what God has given you for His Kingdom purposes (Matthew 25:14-30).
Love for Neighbor: Doing things poorly can actually harm those you serve. Excellence, conversely, is an expression of genuine love and respect for the people you are ministering to, ensuring they receive the best possible care, teaching, and service. We don’t patronize those around us. As children of the King, we don’t give scraps and leftovers, but we honor one another as princes and princesses of the High King.
Combating Misconceptions: In some cultures, “Christian” might be associated with laziness or inefficiency due to past negative examples. Your excellence can challenge these stereotypes and present a counter-narrative. Excellence in your work inevitably leads to greater influence and that influence can create a significant impact for the Kingdom.
The call to excellence is not about seeking perfection or striving for accolades, but about reflecting the character of our God in every facet of your life and ministry. It is an act of worship, a powerful witness, and an essential component of an effective mission.
PRAYER ACTION
Consider the Scriptures you cling to above. Consider excellence. Write a prayer for the kind of person you want to be for the glory of God.
BUILDING A PRACTICAL MINI-THEOLOGY OF EXCELLENCE
Take some time to prayerfully draft your practical mini-theology of “excellence” by responding to these questions:
What does it mean to live for the glory of God? How can this become one’s deepest motivation?
example: God is… We are the kind of people who… It is most like us/me to… We/I will… We/I hold to…
Why do excellence and giving your best matter? What does it look like to give your best or your all for God? How would you want someone from the local community to describe your life and work?
Consider areas of ministry or daily life (e.g., language learning, platform ministry, outreach, discipleship, team, servant leadership). How do you ensure that the quality of your work, whether visible or behind the scenes, reflects the excellence of the God you serve? How do you ensure that your “good deeds” are truly seen as an overflow of God’s love through you, rather than just human effort or a means to an end?
Once you finish share your responses with your mentor. Ask for feedback. Adjust your draft as needed.
Excellence in the mission field permeates every area, often in ways that are deeply practical and relational:
Language Learning: Committing to the study of the language, striving for fluency, not just basic communication. This shows respect for the local people, enables deeper connection, minimizes misunderstandings, and more precise gospel proclamation in people’s heart language.
Cultural Engagement & Gospel Proclamation: Carefully studying the local worldview to understand points of connection and barriers to the gospel, developing culturally appropriate ways to share the message, and patiently answering questions. It means being prepared to articulate the hope you have (1 Peter 3:15). It ensures the gospel is being understood, minimizes unnecessary offense, and maximizes its impact by presenting truth in a way that resonates with the local culture. This involves humility and a willingness to learn, demonstrating genuine love.
Stewardship of Resources: Exercising care, integrity, trustworthiness, and transparency with financial resources, property, and people. It honors God’s provision, builds trust with both supporters and local communities, and removes any potential stumbling block that could discredit the gospel.
Intentional Discipleship and Leadership Development: Not just leading people to Christ, but diligently investing in their spiritual growth, equipping them to understand Scripture, training them to lead, and empowering them to take ownership of the local church and mission. It fulfills the call to “make disciples” (Matthew 28:19-20) and ensures the long-term sustainability and indigenous growth of the church.
Practical Skills and Community Development: If involved in medical work, agriculture, education, or other community projects, performing these tasks with high standards of quality, reliability, and sustainability, reflects God’s order and care.
Personal Character and Habits: Maintaining personal integrity, humility, emotional resilience, physical hygiene, and a strong work ethic. This includes keeping commitments and demonstrating self-control in all areas of life.
Prayer Life: Cultivating a consistent, fervent, and strategic prayer life, recognizing that this is the most excellent way to partner with God.
In every act, from the mundane to the miraculous, the pioneer mission worker’s pursuit of excellence is a living sermon, declaring the glory of the God who is Himself excellent in all His ways. It is a commitment to honor Him by giving nothing less than their very best.
Our neighbors in a remote village in Northern Africa had paid a local marabou (witchdoctor) to throw a curse on our family and home. We felt an oppressive weight and our kids began experiencing night terrors. We had little teaching or frame of reference for this type of spiritual battle.
Before going to the mission field, I was aware that I had an enemy who would mess with the mission and the workers. However, I naively put those thoughts into a spiritual attic afraid to touch them. So they collected dust until I went to the field, and I was confronted by the battle from the frontlines. It wasn’t too late to learn, but I wished that I had known more about my spiritual armor and the spiritual battle that my family would plunge into.
Most soldiers undergo boot camp before deploying to the field. When we go to the mission field, we can expect the spiritual battle to be fierce and the enemy to use a variety of tactics to inflict fear, distraction, discouragement, or defeat.
BIBLICAL REFLECTION ON THE BATTLE
Pioneer mission workers on the frontlines among the unreached understand that the spiritual battle is not an abstract theological concept, but a reality of daily ministry. They are not merely engaging with people and cultures; they are confronting unseen forces that resist the advance of God’s Kingdom.
God oversees an active unseen realm. The Bible unequivocally teaches that there is an unseen realm populated by spiritual beings, both good and evil. This realm has existed since before the creation of man. While God is sovereign and supreme, He allows a real, active, and fierce foe to operate in this world—Satan and his demonic forces. These entities are not mere metaphors for evil; they are intelligent, malevolent beings dedicated to opposing God and His redemptive purposes.
Man’s battle is physical and spiritual. (Ephesians 6:12)
Satan is a cunning and predatory adversary. (1 Peter 5:8)
Satan’s main strategies are isolation (Genesis 3:1), lies (John 8:44), temptation (2 Thessalonians 3:5), and accusation (Revelation 12:10),
Spiritual enemies don’t just play around with us, they seek to deceive and destroy us (John 8:44)
Satan is not the sole problem. Our world and our flesh are also part of the problem. (Ephesians 2:1-3)
God is more powerful than any enemy. God has all enemies on a tight leash. (Genesis 3:15; Colossians 2:15)
God’s enemy is always actively trying to thwart God’s plan and people. The enemy doesn’t sleep. He is relentless. He is powerful and effective as he has been at his craft for a very long time. This foe actively blinds the minds of unbelievers (2 Corinthians 4:4), sows discord, tempts believers (1 Thessalonians 3:5), and seeks to hinder the Gospel (1 Peter 5:8). In unreached areas, where the Gospel has not yet penetrated, these forces often hold significant sway, manifesting in various forms of spiritual darkness. As evil as these forces are, God uses them ultimately for His purposes.
God gives victory for today and ultimately. Despite the fierceness of the foe, the overwhelming truth of Scripture is that God has already secured victory through Jesus Christ. Our role is not to achieve victory, but to enforce the victory already won.
Christ’s death and resurrection were the decisive blow against Satan’s scheme. (Colossians 2:15)
Jesus came specifically to undo the works of the devil. (1 John 3:8)
Believers participate in Christ’s victory through His atoning work and their faithful witness. (Revelation 12:11; Romans 16:20)
Our confidence amid spiritual warfare comes from Christ’s finished work, not from our own ability to fight. We engage from a position of victory, not striving for it.
God gives spiritual armor for protection and defense. God gives each believer everything they need to defend and fight well. Since the enemy is relentless, we must put on the armor of God every day. (Ephesians 6:10-18; 2 Corinthians 10:3-5; James 4:7; Luke 10:19) We do not engage in spiritual warfare in our own strength but rely on the authority and power of Christ who lives in us. Our role involves:
Putting on the Full Armor of God: This is not defensive gear to ward off attacks, but offensive equipment for standing firm in Christ’s victory. Each piece represents a spiritual truth and discipline (Ephesians 6:13-18).
Wielding the Sword of the Spirit (God’s Word): The truth of Scripture is powerful and active, capable of discerning thoughts and intentions, and is our primary offensive weapon (Hebrews 4:12, Ephesians 6:17).
Engaging in Strategic Prayer: Prayer is how we access and apply God’s power in the spiritual realm, binding demonic activity and releasing God’s will (Ephesians 6:18, Matthew 18:18).
Standing Firm in Faith: Our faith in Christ’s finished work is our shield against the enemy’s fiery darts (Ephesians 6:16).
Proclaiming the Gospel: The Gospel itself is the ultimate weapon against the kingdom of darkness, bringing light where there is blindness and freedom where there is bondage (Romans 1:16).
Actively Fighting Sin and the Sark. Sometimes we are the biggest problem in the battle. We fight against the remnants of our flesh. We fight against the remnants of our flesh (sark) and old sinful self while seeking to be a new creation in Christ. I need Christ’s power to help me to live like Him. (Galatians 5:17-21; Romans 7:18; Ephesians 4:22-24)
What other Scriptures or biblical aspects come to mind when you consider the “spiritual battle”? Take a few moments to look up 1-2 of these verses and journal what the Lord highlights for you.
“Be alert and of sober mind. Your enemy the devil prowls around like a roaring lion looking for someone to devour. Resist him, standing firm in the faith, because you know that the family of believers throughout the world is undergoing the same kind of sufferings.” — 1 Peter 5:8
THE IMPORTANCE OF READINESS FOR THE SPIRITUAL BATTLE
Awareness of the spiritual battle is not meant to induce fear but to foster vigilance, strategic prayer, standing firm, and reliance on God. It is important for several key reasons:
Proper Diagnosis of Obstacles and Strongholds: Not every challenge is spiritual, but many are. Awareness helps you discern when opposition, apathy, or unusual difficulties are rooted in spiritual resistance, preventing you from misattributing them to purely human factors or personal failings.
Strategic Prayer: Knowing you face a spiritual foe shifts your prayer from general requests to targeted, fervent intercession for breakthroughs, protection, binding of demonic activity, and calling on the powerful name of Christ.
Reliance on God’s Power: It humbles you, reminding you that you cannot fight this battle in your own strength. This awareness drives you to depend entirely on God’s power, which is infinitely greater than any demonic force.
Protection and Vigilance: It encourages you to “put on the full armor of God” (Ephesians 6:11-18) and to remain sober-minded, guarding against the enemy’s schemes.
Understanding the “Why”: It helps make sense of the intense resistance, apathy, or even direct hostility often encountered when proclaiming the Gospel in unreached areas.
PRAYER ACTION
Consider the Scriptures you cling to above. Consider the battle. Write a prayer for the kind of person you want to be in the spiritual battle.
BUILDING A PRACTICAL MINI-THEOLOGY OF THE BATTLE
Take some time to prayerfully draft your practical mini-theology of “dependence” by responding to these questions:
What is the unseen realm? What about the unseen realm to you need to remove from the attic and dust off? Is it true that what you can’t see can hurt you? Why is the battle fierce especially among UPGs?
example: God is… We are the kind of people who… It is most like us/me to… We/I will… We/I hold to…
What is a spiritual stronghold? What spiritual strongholds are present where you are going? What might freedom for them look like?
How do you have victory and freedom in Christ? What will bring you daily freedom in the battle? What does it look like to put on the Armor of God?
Once you finish share your responses with your mentor. Ask for feedback. Adjust your draft as needed.
Spiritual warfare manifests in various ways, often subtly, but sometimes overtly, in unreached contexts.
Intense Resistance to the Gospel: People may seem utterly uninterested in spiritual truth, even when their lives are clearly broken. People may express unusual apathy, hostility, or irrational fear towards the message, even when it’s presented. This can be a demonic blinding of minds (2 Corinthians 4:4).
Unexplained Opposition and Obstacles: Repeated visa denials, sudden health crises, chronic team conflict, or inexplicable logistical breakdowns that seem to specifically hinder ministry progress. Dreams and Visions: In some cultures, people report disturbing dreams or visions, or conversely, God uses dreams to draw people to Himself, prompting a spiritual battle for their understanding and faith.
Occult Practices and Idolatry: Direct encounters with witchcraft, animistic practices, ancestor worship, or overt demonic oppression where the spiritual forces are clearly at play. Exacerbated Personal Sin and Temptation: A heightened struggle with pre-existing sinful patterns (e.g., anger, lust, pride, self-pity) or new, intense temptations, especially when tired, “joy tank” is low, or isolated.
Discouragement and Despair: Missionaries themselves may face intense, irrational waves of discouragement, self-doubt, despair, hopelessness, worthlessness, loneliness, or a desire to give up, designed to make them abandon their calling (1 Peter 5:8).
Relational Discord: Uncharacteristic friction, misunderstandings, bitterness, or unresolved conflict. Small disagreements escalate into major rifts, threatening unity and effectiveness. The enemy has long pitted people against one another. He will try to bring discord between spouses, families, colleagues, neighbors, local disciples, and others. The enemy wants believers to go into enemy mode with one another.
Physical Ailments and Accidents: While not every illness is spiritual, some can be direct attacks designed to incapacitate or distract missionaries from their work.
False Teachings and Syncretism: The enemy seeks to distort the gospel or blend it with existing beliefs, creating a counterfeit that lacks saving power.
The spiritual battle is not always a loud, dramatic event, but often a persistent, multi-faceted assault on the missionary’s spirit, mind, relationships, and ministry effectiveness. Recognizing these patterns is the first step in engaging the battle with God’s victory.
When I first went to the mission field, I had studied the Bible in seminary, strategies, and training in disciple-making, ambition, and readiness to share the good news. While important before going into the field, I was quite confident and relied heavily on what I knew to make things happen, so I didn’t resort to prayer other than asking God to bless my laborers. Little did I know, it didn’t work that way. God wanted me to depend on Him daily and walk with Him during every part of the process.
As an infant, I needed my parents. I was utterly dependent on them for everything. I didn’t realize this fully until I had children of my own. Even as a boy, I needed my mother and father, but something changed in adolescence when we thought I could do everything on my own or I wanted to prove that I could.
Relationally and spiritually speaking, I am still a child who is growing in daily dependence on my Father. I find that I need to depend on God more on the field than my home country where things are easier and familiar. The mission field constantly causes my faith to be stirred and tethered to One who ultimately makes things happen.
BIBLICAL REFLECTION ON DEPENDENCE
The mission is a divine undertaking, and your greatest asset is not your skill, but your utter dependence on the Almighty God who sends you through unceasing prayer.
God designed us to be dependent. Dependence on God is not an option. God created every human to be dependent by design, not as a flaw, but as an integral part of our relationship with Him. He formed us from the dust of the ground and breathed His very breath into us (Genesis 2:7), signifying that our life and existence originate entirely from Him. Furthermore, we were made in His image (Genesis 1:27), implying a relational capacity and an inherent need to reflect and rely on our Creator. Our dependence is foundational to our being, as Acts 17:28 affirms: “For in him we live and move and have our being.” We are not self-sufficient, but designed to thrive in constant reliance on the One who made us and sustains us.
Pray is foundational to missions work. Prayer isn’t just a helpful add-on or afterthought; it’s the absolute core of the global mission. Without fervent and intentional prayer, all our efforts – no matter how well planned or how hard we work – just won’t have that divine oomph or signature stamp (James 5:16b). Prayer is what directly links pioneers and their work to God’s wisdom, strength, and provision (Philippians 4:6-7). It’s how we acknowledge that God is King and His authority is absolutely essential for His kingdom to move forward (Matthew 6:10; Ephesians 6:18; 2 Corinthians 10:4-5; Acts 16:14; Acts 10:1-6). So, making prayer our first and primary work at every single step of missions, from the starting plans to the daily grind of ministry and follow-up – it’s imperative if we want to see real progress (1 Thessalonians 5:17)
1. Entire dependence upon the merits and mediation of the Lord Jesus Christ, as the only ground of any claim for blessing. (John 14:13-14; John 15:16)
2. Separation from all known sin. If we regard iniquity in our hearts, the Lord will not hear us, for it would be sanctioning sin. (Psalm 66:18).
3. Faith in God’s word of promise as confirmed by His oath. Not to believe Him is to make Him both a liar and a perjurer. (Heb. 11:6; (Heb. 6:13-20).
4. Asking in accordance with His will. Our motives must be godly: we must not seek any gift of God to consume it upon our lusts. (1 John 5:14; James 4:3).
5. Importunity in supplication. There must be waiting on God and waiting for God, as the husbandman has long patience to wait for the harvest. (James 5:7; Luke 18:1-8).
What other Scriptures or biblical aspects come to mind when you consider “dependence on God”? Take a few moments to look up 1-2 of these verses and journal what the Lord highlights for you.
“My grace is sufficient for you, for my power is made perfect in weakness.’ Therefore I will boast all the more gladly about my weaknesses, so that Christ’s power may rest on me.” — 2 Corinthians 12:9
THE IMPORTANCE OF DEPENDENCE
Charles Spurgeon once made this remark: “I would rather teach one man to pray than ten men to preach.” Prayer is not compartmentalized as one duty of ministry; it shapes every aspect of every ministry. Our part in the mission depends upon prayer.
Dependence on God is vital for pioneering people in the mission field because it’s where their limitedness meets God’s limitlessness. Prayer is the intersection between our inability and God’s ability. When facing overwhelming challenges like persecution or lack of resources, relying on God means trusting Him to provide what we cannot, ensuring that any breakthrough or success is seen as His work, not ours. Dependence on God is truly leaning on God to make the impossible possible.
Spiritual Fruitfulness: True, lasting fruit in ministry comes from abiding in Christ, not from human effort. Our natural inclination is to rely on familiarities or our abilities. Dependence on God strips away pride and self-sufficiency, reminding us that apart from God, we can do nothing of eternal value (John 15:5).
Resilience and Endurance: The mission field is fraught with challenges, disappointments, and spiritual attacks. Dependence on God provides the peace, strength, and perseverance needed to continue and thrive (Isaiah 40:31).
Authentic Witness: A life lived in visible dependence on God is a powerful testimony to the unreached. It demonstrates that the God you proclaim is real, active, and trustworthy.
Sharing the Load: Carrying the weight of ministry on your shoulders leads to exhaustion. Casting your anxieties on the Lord and relying on His provision prevents burnout and despair (1 Peter 5:7).
Divine Guidance: Living and serving in a foreign place continually takes us out of our comfort zone and wheelhouse. We need divine guidance to shape our daily decisions, interactions, and very survival. Dependence means constantly seeking God’s wisdom and direction in complex and unfamiliar contexts (Proverbs 3:5-6).
Changing Hearts: We cannot change another person’s heart. Our role is to faithfully share the Good News, but it is the Holy Spirit who ultimately convicts and changes a soul.
Aligning Wills: When we pray, we aren’t approaching God as a mere “cosmic vending machine” for Him to dispense a simple answer to prayer in the field. We approach God who made heaven and earth, who is sovereign, whose precious providence reaches far beyond our comprehension. We aren’t aligning God’s will to ours; we are seeking God to align our will to His will when reaching the lost. (Matthew 6:10)
Reveal God’s Glory and Power: When we are weak, we get to see firsthand Christ’s power (2 Corinthians 12:9). The mission to the unreached is often overwhelming. God deliberately places us in situations where our human limitations become evident so that when breakthroughs occur, it is clear that He is at work. When we face impossible situations and God provides, His glory is unmistakably displayed, not ours.
Foster Intimacy: Dependence is meant to draw us closer to God. Just as a child relies on a parent, our reliance on God builds trust, deepens our relationship, and creates a bond of love and joy. (Hebrews 7:24–25)
Cultivate Faith and Humility: We are prayerless people because we are prideful people. Dependence requires humble faith that says to God, “We need Your help!” As we lean on God and see Him act, our faith grows fuller, enabling us to trust Him more in future situations. If we do not pray in humble faith, then we will be ensnared by pride.
Timothy Keller said, “To pray is to accept that we are, and always will be, wholly dependent on God for everything… The only person who dares wake up a king at 3:00 am for a glass of water is a child.” Pioneers are children who serve in challenging environments and experience moment-by-moment dependence on God in ways that are often tangible and immediate.
PRAYER ACTION
Consider the Scriptures you cling to above. Consider dependence. Write a prayer for the kind of person you want to be who is dependent on God and others.
BUILDING A PRACTICAL MINI-THEOLOGY OF DEPENDENCE
Take some time to prayerfully draft your practical mini-theology of “dependence” by responding to these questions:
Why did God make us dependent? Interdependent?
example: God is… We are the kind of people who… It is most like us/me to… We/I will… We/I hold to…
What does it look like to lean on God? Talk to God? Listen to God?
How does prayer make things happen? What happens when we don’t pray?
Once you finish share your responses with your mentor. Ask for feedback. Adjust your draft as needed.
In the Muslim culture of the city where I live, prayer is not an anomaly. The mosques call people to pray five times a day. Men and women talk about prayer and perform prayer. The relationship I seek to have with God through Jesus Christ opens the door to a kind of prayer that causes neighbors to wonder. I talk to God like I know Him intimately. I call Him my Father. I bring the little details of my day before Him. I trust him to act in my life. And I can bring Him into any conversation—anytime, anywhere.
Once, while praying, I was struggling with the grammar of my new language. The person that I was praying for kept finishing my sentences for me. Two things were happening simultaneously, I was depending on God to God for help to be understood in prayer and I was praying for my friend who needed to depend on the Lord who sees and hears. When I looked up, I could see that my friend was visibly moved, despite having corrected my poor grammar.
Consider these practical scenarios where dependence on God through prayer is vital in the field:
Language Acquisition: When the local language seems insurmountable, dependence means praying for divine help in learning, for open doors to practice, and for the ability to communicate the gospel. Workers in the mission field pray for “ears to hear” and “tongues to speak” in a new way.
Making Disciples: Dependence means praying specifically for God to reveal and connect you with individuals or families whose hearts He has prepared to receive the Gospel (Luke 10:5-6). When faced with hardened hearts or seemingly unfruitful efforts, missionaries depend on God for spiritual breakthroughs. They pray for conviction of sin, open eyes to truth, and the Holy Spirit’s power to transform lives, knowing this is only something God can do.
Spiritual Opposition: Encountering spiritual darkness, witchcraft, or deep-seated idolatry requires absolute dependence on God’s power to break spiritual strongholds through persistent, fervent prayer (Mark 9:29).
Provision of Resources: Whether it’s financial support, housing, visas, or essential supplies, dependence means trusting God to provide for every need, often in surprising ways like unexpected donations, local generosity, or creative means that only He could arrange. (Philippians 4:19)
Safety and Protection: Operating in volatile or hostile environments necessitates constant prayer for divine protection for yourself, your family, and your local contacts. One also depends on God for physical protection from harm, health in challenging climates, and spiritual shielding against unseen forces. (Psalm 91:1-2; 2 Thessalonians 3:2).
Discernment and Wisdom: When making critical decisions about strategy, partnerships, or personal conduct in culturally complex situations, dependence means seeking God’s wisdom above all else (James 1:5). Consider praying the Bible, especially the Psalms and the many prayers scattered through the New Testament letters. These can give the words needed and confidence to pray according to God’s will.
spreading the fame 