I is for INCREDIBLE

So far in our study of MISSION we have learned that M is for Mandate, I is for Intentional, S is for Spirit Empowered and S is for Simplicity.

“I” is for Incredible. There are a couple of places in the New Testament where Jesus sends his disciples out on what we would consider to be short term mission trips. What is quite different about these mission trips from those that many of us have been involved in is the direction that Jesus gives his disciples. In Matthew 10 (which is a great chapter to read if you have the chance) we see Jesus sending out the 12 disciples on there first trip. What is incredible in this passage is the instructions that Jesus gives them.

In Matthew 10:7-8 we read, “As you go, preach this message: 'The kingdom of heaven is near.' 8Heal the sick, raise the dead, cleanse those who have leprosy,[b]drive out demons.” There are 5 things that the disciples are instructed to do on this trip:

1. Preach a simple message, the Kingdom of Heaven is near
2. Heal the sick
3. Raise the dead
4. Cleanse those who have leprosy, and
5. Drive out demons

I wonder what response we would get if we pulled the StreetReach team together on July 12th at our first meeting and told them that the next week we would be doing 5 things – the list above. I am sure that the sense of dread and panic would be intense, however, I can also imagine the celebration and rejoicing that would occur if our team returned back to Mt Oak having done just one of these things.

Here is the question, why do we not do these things on our mission trips? Prior to Jesus sending the 12 disciples out on this trip he gave them the authority to do all of these things, That same authority He has given to you and me. If you recall Matthew 28:18 we read there that ALL authority in heaven and on earth has been given to us, that is why we can go and see INCREDIBLE things happen when we take the truth out to those who need to hear about, and experience God’s love.

Just something to think about as you go about your day today.