It’s so easy to assume that Missions is a New Testament idea. But it’s not. It’s been God’s heart since the very beginning. His passion for the nations is evident throughout the entirety of the Bible.
Way back in Genesis, God promised Abraham overwhelming blessings. Not so Abraham could live an abundant, selfish live. But so that “all people on earth will be blessed” through him. All people.
In the story of Noah, the promise set forth in the rainbow was God’s covenant with all of mankind – not just Noah’s family. Not just the people of Israel. Not just the Body of Christ. God’s covenant of grace was “a covenant for all generations to come.” All generations.
What was the whole point of David and Goliath? Little beats big? God on your side is the majority? We can do all things through God’s strength? All of those things and more. Ultimately, it reveals God’s heart. David conquered Goliath so “the whole world will know that there is a God.” The whole world.
Then there was Shadrach, Meshach and Abednego, the three young Israelites in the fiery furnace. In the end, King Nebuchadnezzar decreed that the people of “every nation will know that no other god can save.” Every nation.
Not only did the Lord spare Daniel’s life in the lion’s den, but “all the peoples, nations, and men of every language” heard about it. The king issued a decree that basically said, “There is no God like Daniel’s!” Every language.
Even in the Psalms we can read of God’s heart for the lost. “May God be gracious to us and bless us and make His face shine upon us that Your ways may be known on earth, Your salvation among all nations.” All nations.
As you read the Bible this week, look at everything through the Missions Lens. You’ll see things you never noticed before. And you’ll discover the heart of God in a whole new way.
God’s ultimate plan is for all nations to know Him. As Christians, as God-followers, we are called to be a part of His plan. All of us.
(ALECE)