Literature
Exploring the Biblical Roots of Missions and Missionaries
Exploring the Biblical Roots of Missions and Missionaries
From the early days of Christianity to the vast network of missions today, the role of missionaries has played a pivotal role in spreading the word of God. This article delves into the biblical origins of the concept of missions and missionaries, examining how these roles were established and maintained through the centuries.
Biblical Origins of Missions and Missionaries
Throughout the New Testament, we find the origins of the modern-day mission. The twelve apostles were the first missionaries, carrying out Jesus' command to preach the gospel and heal the sick. These apostles, also known as evangelists or evangelists of the gospel, spread the message of Christ across the Roman Empire (Matthew 10, Luke 10).
As Christianity grew, the number of missionaries needed expanded beyond the original twelve. This growth necessitated an increase in the number of those dedicated to spreading the gospel, particularly with the rise of figures such as Paul who dedicated his life to missionary work, establishing churches and spreading the message of Christ (Acts 9, Acts 14).
Key Biblical References to 'Mission' and 'Missionary'
The word 'mission' appears in various forms in the Bible, such as 'missionaris' (a Latin term) or 'apostolos' (ancient Greek term), meaning 'sent one'. References to these terms can be found in several books of the Bible, including Joshua, Samuel, and Isaiah as well as in Acts (e.g., 1 Samuel 21:5, Joshua 22:32, Isaiah 48:15, Acts 12:25).
The Modern Definition of Missionary
Today, the term 'missionary' is often used to describe individuals who are called to spread the gospel beyond their home communities. Unlike the original apostles, modern-day missionaries can take on various roles, from teaching to pastoral care, but they do not perform priestly functions such as saying Mass or hears confessions.
The term 'missionary' stems from the Latin missionari, which means 'sent one'. While the word 'apostle' (meaning 'sent one' in Greek) is also frequently used to describe early missionaries, the specific roles and functions of apostles under the New Testament have sometimes led to confusion. The term 'apostle' in the New Testament is not limited to the original twelve disciples but includes others like Barnabas and Titus (Galatians 1:19, 1 Timothy 1:3).
The Great Commission
Perhaps the most significant passage related to missions is the Great Commission found in Matthew 28:19-20. Jesus commanded his disciples to make disciples of all nations, to baptize them, and to teach them to obey all his commands. This passage serves as a foundational text for all missionary work, emphasizing the importance of spreading the gospel and instilling it in future generations.
Conclusion
The terms 'mission' and 'missionary' have their roots deeply embedded in the Bible, specifically in the lives and works of the apostles and early Christian missionaries. While the modern usage of these terms has evolved, the essence of spreading the gospel and building the church persists. Understanding these biblical foundations can provide clarity and guidance in modern missionary work.