Missions

How the Local Church Goes Global (9Marks Building Healthy Churches)

Andy Johnson

The world of mission and ministry is a vast arena, one where the heartbeat of the local church pulses with the urgency of a Christ-fueled vision. In Missions: How the Local Church Goes Global, Andy Johnson beckons readers into this compelling narrative, not merely as passive observers but as engaged participants in the divine enterprise of global outreach. Through this enlightening text, Johnson doesn't just present information; he ignites a fire within the hearts of those who dare to grasp the calling of the local church in the global arena. 🕊

As a seasoned pastor and advocate for a faithful church mission, Johnson brings forth a nuanced perspective that transcends conventional wisdom. Rather than portraying missions as an isolated program within the church, he advocates for an integrated approach that sees missions as the natural extension of the local church's identity. The church isn't merely a building or a congregation; it's an outpost of God's kingdom, pulsating with the life-giving message of the Gospel ready to be disseminated worldwide. This powerful reframing demands that you, the reader, confront a startling truth: the mission of the church hinges not on the institution, but on each one of us participating fully in that mission. The urgency of this message strikes deep-how often do we let opportunities to engage slip away, lulled by apathy or distraction?

In organizing his thoughts, Johnson astutely elaborates on practical steps, anchored in biblical foundations, to prompt local churches toward effective global participation. His writing emerges from a rich well of theological insight, seamlessly weaving scripture into a compelling case for the church's role in missions. Did you know that as of 2021, there are still over 3 billion people who have little to no access to the Gospel? This statistic alone should set your heart racing and mind racing: how are YOU contributing to the remedy of this global injustice? The urgency of Johnson's challenge is palpable-it is as if he is calling out from the pages, demanding an answer from you.

Readers have resonated with this drive, with reviews ranging from praise for its accessible yet profound content to critiques that suggest it simplifies the complexities of local and global missions. Some feel that Johnson's holistic approach may overlook the realities faced by smaller churches that may not have the resources to engage globally. Yet, many concur that the text serves as an invigorating wake-up call, especially for churches that may be stagnating in their mission engagement. The tone is both inviting and challenging, pushing boundaries while remaining compassionate to those navigating this intricate landscape. 💡

What sets this book apart is not just its theoretical grounding but its practical application. Johnson masterfully encourages local churches to take small, tangible steps-beginning with prayer, building relationships, and fostering partnerships with those serving on the frontlines of global missions. Could your church organize a simple prayer meeting that focuses on the unreached? Could you host a cultural night to educate your congregation on a distinct people group? These suggestions, while seemingly small, can create ripples that lead to transformative actions.

The call for church engagement in missions is not merely a fad; it is a divine mandate-your mandate. The potential impact of a local church embracing its global calling can reshape entire communities, not only extending the reach of the Gospel but also addressing social justice issues that afflict our world. Johnson reminds you of the theologian John Piper's assertion that "missions exists because worship doesn't." As you reflect on this weighty statement, consider your own participation in worship and how that translates into action.

Don't let complacency rob you of influence. In profound ways, Missions: How the Local Church Goes Global reroutes your thinking as it elevates your understanding of the local church's role in the grand narrative of the Gospel. Dive deep into this work and let it not just read like a book but resonate like a calling-one that will challenge you, inspire you, and, perhaps most importantly, push you to act. If you want to be part of a movement that shapes history, this book is your compass. The global mission needs you-are you ready to be the answer? 🌍

📖 Missions: How the Local Church Goes Global (9Marks: Building Healthy Churches)

✍ by Andy Johnson

🧾 129 pages

2017

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