“From Goals Scored and Sets Completed to Souls Won – Rekindling the Church’s Passion for the Great Commission”
Introduction:
Let me commence by providing a personal perspective.
While I personally don’t consider myself an enthusiast of sports events such as football or tennis, I can certainly appreciate the widespread appeal and passion that sports generate among many individuals.
For me, observing sporting events tends to elicit a response similar to “watching paint dry, watching the spin cycle on my washing machine or observing paint peel” it simply fails to captivate my attention, imagination or ignite my interest. However, I have a profound respect for the fervour and excitement that sports provoke in countless spectators and participants worldwide.
The Unifying Power of Sports – A Tapestry of Skill, Emotion, and Community.
The cultural significance of sports, their ability to unite communities, and the sheer skill and dedication of athletes are aspects I can objectively admire, even if I don’t share the same level of engagement. The way sports can evoke strong emotions, create lasting memories, and serve as a source of entertainment and social bonding for millions is truly remarkable.
Moreover, I recognise that my lack of enthusiasm for sports is simply a personal preference, and I do not judge those who find great joy and meaning in following their favourite teams or athletes. The diversity of human interests is what makes our society rich and varied, and the passion for sports is an integral part of that tapestry.
Getting The Balance Right.
In this article, I want to try and provide a balance however between the fervour, enthusiasm and engagement that the Body of Christ may put into these two sporting events (football/soccer and tennis.) plus others.
In addition, to explore the stark contrast between the societal fervent interest and cultural obsession with sports and our often-lukewarm approach and indifferent attitude to spiritual matters of eternal significance i.e. “Winning the Lost for Jesus.” and how this is reflected in the fulfilment and the outworking of the “Great Commission.”
We will be seeking to examine the church’s responsibility in soul-winning and confront the uncomfortable reality of church congregations that fail to bear fruit.
This isn’t about criticism, but rather an invitation to reflect on how we might channel our natural excitement into our spiritual lives. This journey of self-reflection isn’t meant to induce guilt, but to open our eyes to the beautiful potential of living out our faith with the same fervour we bring to other areas of our lives, and in particular “sporting events.”
By drawing parallels between the excitement of big sports events and our approach to evangelism, we can explore how to create a harmonious balance between our cultural interests and our eternal responsibilities, enriching both our personal spiritual journeys and our impact on the world around us.
This isn’t about abandoning our love for sports, not at all, but about considering how we might bring that same level of passion to spreading our faith.
Ultimately, we are aiming at:
- Reigniting the flame of evangelism in the hearts of believers.
- Calling for a reassessment of priorities.
- Encouraging a renewed commitment to the mission Christ entrusted to His followers.
As a foundational thought, lest I be considered an “oddball” I think it’s important to acknowledge that we are described as “not of this world” in John 17:16-26. This doesn’t mean we have to be weirdos or lose touch with reality, but we should understand our true place and role in the world we live in.
The concept of being “not of this world” while living in it is a central theme in Christian theology, particularly when considering the believer’s role in society and their relationship to the Kingdom of God. Let me expand on this idea using biblical references as it is an important underpinning principle to the rest of this article.:
- Citizens of Heaven:
The Apostle Paul emphasises in Philippians 3:20, “But our citizenship is in heaven. And we eagerly await a Saviour from there, the Lord Jesus Christ.” This verse underscores the idea that while Christians live on earth, their true allegiance and identity are rooted in the Kingdom of God. This heavenly citizenship should influence how believers interact with earthly systems and values.
- In the World, Not of the World:
Jesus’ prayer in John 17:14-16 further elaborates on this concept: “I have given them your word and the world has hated them, for they are not of the world any more than I am of the world. My prayer is not that you take them out of the world but that you protect them from the evil one. They are not of the world, even as I am not of it.” This passage highlights the tension believers experience – living in the world while maintaining a distinct identity and purpose.
- Ambassadors for Christ:
2 Corinthians 5:20 states, “We are therefore Christ’s ambassadors, as though God were making his appeal through us.” This role as ambassadors suggests that believers represent the Kingdom of God while living in the “foreign land” of the world. It implies a responsibility to embody and communicate Kingdom values in everyday life.
- Sojourners and Exiles:
1 Peter 2:11-12 addresses believers as “aliens and strangers in the world,” urging them to “live such good lives among the pagans that, though they accuse you of doing wrong, they may see your good deeds and glorify God on the day he visits us.” This perspective encourages Christians to view their time on earth as temporary, while still engaging positively with the surrounding culture.
The biblical view presents a nuanced understanding of the believer’s place in the world. While Christians are indeed “not of this world” in terms of their primary allegiance and values, they are called to engage meaningfully with society. This engagement should be characterised by a distinct lifestyle that reflects Kingdom principles, active participation in seeking the common good, and a clear understanding of their role as representatives of God’s Kingdom on earth. The challenge for believers is to navigate this tension – being in the world but not of it – in a way that honours God and positively influences the surrounding culture.
The Scene Set:
So as the season springs upon us and at times, there are rays of sunshine along with the crisp chill filling the air, millions of people throughout the World are feeling a familiar stirring in their hearts.
Hurray! And Celebration! It’s the football and tennis season once again. Across the nations, fans of all age groups, cultures and perspectives, don their team colours, stadiums roar to life, and living rooms and many church halls become sanctuaries of spirited devotion to the unfolding events.
The excitement and atmosphere for those participating is palpable, the involvement all-encompassing, and the emotional energy invested is nothing short of extraordinary.
Yet, as we witness this annual phenomenon, poignant questions arise for those of us in the Christian faith, some of these being:
- Where is this level of passion, enthusiasm and dedication when it comes to our divine mandate and purpose?
- Where is the fervour and passion gone for proclaiming the Gospel and fulfilling the Great Commission?
- The passion that should characterise our pursuit of this divine calling often pales in comparison to the zeal displayed in secular arenas.
These observations raise crucial points about the apparent disparity between the passion often seen in secular pursuits and the devotion to spiritual matters among Christians. Consider the following:
Misplaced Priorities:
The fervour displayed for secular events like sports championships often overshadows the zeal for spiritual matters. This imbalance reflects the human tendency to prioritise immediate, tangible experiences over eternal, spiritual realities. Jesus addressed this issue in Matthew 6:19-21: “Do not store up for yourselves treasures on earth, where moths and vermin destroy, and where thieves break in and steal. But store up for yourselves treasures in heaven, where moths and vermin do not destroy, and where thieves do not break in and steal. For where your treasure is, there your heart will be also.”
The Great Commission and Lukewarm Faith:
The lack of passion for proclaiming the Gospel and fulfilling the Great Commission Matthew 28:19-20 is a significant concern. This lukewarm approach to faith is reminiscent of the church in Laodicea, as described in Revelation 3:15-16 – “I know your deeds, that you are neither cold nor hot. I wish you were either one or the other! So, because you are lukewarm—neither hot nor cold—I am about to spit you out of my mouth.”
Competing Worldly Attractions:
The allure of worldly entertainment and pursuits often competes with spiritual dedication. Paul warns about this in 2 Timothy 4:3-4 -“For the time will come when people will not put up with sound doctrine. Instead, to suit their own desires, they will gather around them a great number of teachers to say what their itching ears want to hear. They will turn their ears away from the truth and turn aside to myths.”
Balancing Earthly Engagement and Spiritual Focus:
While it’s not inherently wrong to enjoy secular activities, the disproportionate enthusiasm for these events compared to spiritual matters reveals a need for reassessment. Colossians 3:2 advises, “Set your minds on things above, not on earthly things.”
In concluding this section, the disparity between the enthusiasm shown for secular events and the often-lacklustre approach to spiritual matters presents a challenge for contemporary Christians. It calls for a re-evaluation of priorities, a renewed commitment to the Great Commission, and a conscious effort to cultivate spiritual fervour that matches or exceeds the passion seen in other areas of life. This introspection and subsequent action are crucial for aligning one’s life with the biblical mandate to seek first the Kingdom of God Matthew 6:33 and to live as effective witnesses in the world.
The Fervour of Football and Tennis Season.
The arrival of these seasons in various parts of the world is nothing short of a cultural phenomenon. It’s a time when fans and die-hard enthusiasts alike are swept up in a wave of excitement that permeates every aspect of daily life.
From grassroots football matches on dusty pitches in Africa to a thrilling grand slam tennis tournament that mesmerises audiences worldwide, these sports become an all-consuming passion for billions across the globe.
Whether it’s the roar of a packed stadium during a Champions League final in Europe, the hushed anticipation on Centre Court at Wimbledon, the electric atmosphere of a local derby in South America, or the intense focus during a US Open night match in New York, these athletic competitions ignite a fervour that transcends borders, languages, and cultures.
Around the world, football pitches and tennis courts become theatres of dreams, living rooms and church halls, plus pub bars and hotels transform into passionate arenas, and the spirit of both team unity and individual excellence unites people in a shared experience of the athletic drama that is unfolding, and the thrill of that last-minute goal or the elegance of a perfectly executed and flawless backhand winner.
The Emotional Investment.
Take a moment to appreciate the dedication shown by the typical fan. They have an impressive ability to memorise player statistics, team histories, and complex play strategies. They meticulously coordinate and adjust their daily work and family schedules to ensure they never miss a single game, occasionally embarking on long journeys spanning hundreds of miles to wholeheartedly support their beloved team.
They passionately discuss trades, coaching decisions, and referee calls, engaging in spirited debates. This emotional attachment is so deep that the result of a single game can have a lasting impact on their mood for days.
The Financial Investment.
The financial investment is both equally staggering and impressive. Fans spend billions investing heavily in tickets, merchandise, and cable packages. They decorate their homes with flags and memorabilia inspired by their favourite teams and meticulously plan holidays centred around attending away games.
Companies are willing to invest significant amounts of money in advertising spots during games, acknowledging the captive audience that football attracts.
The Community Collective Investment.
Moreover, the community aspect of football and tennis fandom is particularly striking. It brings together people, creating space for folks from diverse backgrounds, fostering a sense of belonging, shared purpose and inclusivity.
The events promote parties that become impromptu family reunions, and sports bars turn into hubs of camaraderie. The language of football and tennis becomes a common tongue, allowing strangers to connect instantly over shared knowledge and experiences.
This level of dedication and enthusiasm is truly remarkable. It speaks to a fundamental human need for belonging, excitement, and purpose.
Football and Tennis, for many, provides a sense of identity and a framework for experiencing a range of emotions – from the ecstasy of victory to the agony of defeat.
The Great Commission – A Divine Mandate.
In stark contrast amidst the excitement surrounding football and tennis, there exists an eternal and profound purpose that should ignite an even stronger enthusiasm in those who believe – the Great Commission. This sacred duty, bestowed upon humanity by the teachings of our saviour Jesus Christ, serves as the fundamental basis of Christian mission and objective.
It presents the very cornerstone of Christian mission and purpose.
In Matthew 28:19-20, Jesus emphasises the importance of spreading his teachings to people from all nations he states – “Go therefore and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit, teaching them to observe all that I have commanded you.” He instructs his followers to baptise individuals in the name of the Father, Son, and Holy Spirit, and to teach them to follow his commandments.
This directive is not something to be taken lightly or considered as an optional task for only the most dedicated believers. This instruction is crystal clear and leaves no room for ambiguity for those who profess to follow Christ.
This commission has far-reaching implications, and the implications of this commission are profound. The Great Commission holds immense significance as it pertains to the everlasting fate of individuals (literally Heaven or Hell) for friends, family, husbands, wives, grandparent’s, neighbours and work colleagues.
It encourages believers to step out of their comfort zones, to connect with individuals from diverse backgrounds and regions, and to interact with people from various walks of life. It’s about more than just sharing information – it’s about inviting others into a transformative relationship with God.
The Great Commission is about the eternal destiny of souls.
The Comforting Assurance.
Moreover, this mandate comes with a promise. Jesus assures His followers, “And behold, I am with you always, to the end of the age” – Matthew 28:20. This divine assurance should instil confidence and boldness in every believer. We are not left to our own devices in this mission; we have the very presence and power of Christ with us.
The Urgency of the Moment.
The urgency of this commission cannot be overstated. The Apostle Paul, grasping the weight of this responsibility, and its magnitude exclaimed, “Woe to me if I do not preach the gospel!” – 1 Corinthians 9:16 or if I put it another way – “I would be in deep trouble if I didn’t share the good news!” – He understood that the message of salvation, the Gospel which is the powerhouse of salvation through Christ was a matter of life and death, of eternal consequence.
Yet, despite the clarity of this mandate and the magnitude of its importance, many churches and individual Christian’s approach evangelism with a fraction of the enthusiasm they reserve for their favourite sports teams.
In many churches also the actual proclamation of the Gospel is either neglected or so watered down as to be “another Gospel” – Galatians 1:6-9 or no Gospel at all.
Comparing Passions with Football/Tennis/Sports vs. Evangelism
When we juxtapose the fervour surrounding football and tennis with the often tepid and lack lustre approach to evangelism within the Church, the contrast is stark, sobering and should be thought provoking.
The passion that drives fans to memorise intricate details about their favourite teams and players rarely finds its parallel and comparable counterpart in Christians’ knowledge of Scripture or understanding of theological concepts which are crucial for sharing the Gospel effectively and also understanding – “Who they are in Christ, and where and what they have been delivered from.”
The financial commitment spoken of earlier presents another striking comparison and notable contrast. While many Christians hesitate to tithe or contribute to mission work, these same individuals might not think twice about splurging out on season tickets, team merchandise, or sports packages, spending significant amounts of their hard-earned income.
The emotional investment again spoken of earlier though is perhaps the most telling and truly revealing. A missed field goal or net fault can elicit profound emotional responses from fans, yet the knowledge that countless individuals in our communities are living without the hope of Christ, and in reality, are bound for hell, often fails to stir our hearts to action.
Let me stress – This is not to suggest that enjoying sports or being a dedicated fan is inherently wrong. But rather, it serves as a mirror, reflecting the capacity for passion and commitment that exists within us. If we can muster such enthusiasm for temporal worldly affairs, and matters, how much more should we be stirred by the eternal significance of the Gospel?
True Church Growth vs. Spiritual Obesity.
In evaluating the health and vitality of a church, it’s crucial to distinguish between true growth and what might be termed “spiritual obesity.” The latter spiritual obesity occurs when a church experiences numerical growth primarily through Christians transferring from other congregations, rather than through new conversions. One congregation becomes slimmer whilst the other grows fatter.
If souls are not being saved through their combined efforts but their congregant attendance is increasing – This is not growth but “spiritual obesity.”
For Christian Leaders and especially Pastors there is a need to take a look at their congregations and consider if they are really growing or fooling themselves about growth – If souls are not being saved through their combined efforts but their congregant attendance is increasing – This is not growth but “spiritual obesity.”
True church growth, as modelled in the early church in Acts, is characterised by the addition continuously of new believers: “And the Lord added to their number day by day those who were being saved” – Acts 2:47. This growth is organic, driven by the power and incredible impact of the Gospel to transform lives and the faithful witness of believers in their communities.
Spiritual obesity, on the other hand, can create an illusion and false impression of health. A church may boast of increasing attendance numbers and even expanded programs, but if this growth is not accompanied by new conversions, it may indicate a focus on attracting existing believers rather than reaching the lost.
Check out my latest blog post titled “Blazing the Trail of Authentic Outreach: Evangelism’s Defiance of Hollow Church Growth.” It’s an interesting read! Blazing the Trail of Authentic Outreach, Evangelism’s Defiance of Hollow Church Growth. – World Wide Christian Ministries.
This phenomenon can lead to four and I’m sure there are more problems:
- Complacency:
- Can sometimes set in within churches, leading them to be content with just gaining new members through transfers, rather than actively fulfilling their evangelistic mandate.
- Internal focus:
- The organisation may allocate more resources and energy towards serving current members rather than actively engaging with the community.
- A Diminished sense of urgency:
- The importance of spreading the Gospel can sometimes be overshadowed when we are in the company of other believers.
- Stunted spiritual growth:
- Without the challenges and joys of evangelism, individual believers may miss out on crucial aspects of spiritual development.
True church growth, in contrast, that is truly meaningful is characterised and marked by a balance of depth and breadth. As new believers are added to the church, they are discipled and integrated into the body, contributing to its overall health and vitality – it presents a continual cycle. This growth pattern reflects the Great Commission’s dual emphasis on making disciples and teaching them to obey Christ’s commands.
The Church’s Role in Evangelism and Soul-Winning.
The responsibility for fulfilling the Great Commission does not rest solely on the shoulders of pastors, missionaries, or a select few however within the congregation. It is a calling extended to every believer and, collectively, to the entire church body.
This responsibility encompasses a number of factors here are five and they are key aspects:
Preparing and Empowering.
Every member for the work of ministry, including evangelism, is a crucial responsibility of church leadership – as stated in Ephesians 4:11-12.
Building a Culture of Evangelism.
It is important for churches to cultivate an atmosphere where sharing the Gospel is embraced as a normal and anticipated aspect of everyday life in the Christian journey of faith.
Creating Chances.
Hosting outreach events, community service projects, and mission trips can offer structured opportunities for members to participate in evangelism.
Internal Evaluations.
Regularly evaluate their evangelistic impact and make necessary adjustments to their strategies in order to effectively reach their communities.
Prayer and Spiritual Warfare.
These are essential aspects of church life. It is important for churches to understand that soul-winning is a spiritual endeavour and therefore, they should prioritise prayer and spiritual preparedness. This is emphasised in Ephesians 6:18-20.
I have written a book recently published on the topic of “Spiritual Warfare” which can be obtained at the following in multiple formats if you are interest.
https://amzn.eu/d/05QgCT7v – https://books2read.com/u/3Jgaae
Building Strong Foundations.
Building a strong foundation and discipling for new believers and helping them become fully integrated into the body of Christ is essential for long-term growth and continued effectiveness in spreading the message of the Gospel.
Nurturing new believers through robust discipleship is crucial for the church’s vitality and the spread of the Gospel. This process is rooted in Jesus’ Great Commission and aims to develop spiritually mature individuals who can withstand challenges to their faith.
Effective discipleship will enhance the integration of newcomers to the faith, fostering an environment of support and shared growth. It creates a cycle of spiritual multiplication, where those who are taught become teachers themselves. This approach addresses the unique needs of new believers, guiding them from basic understanding to deeper spiritual insights.
Discipleship equips believers for active service within the church and prepares them to articulate their faith clearly in a diverse world. It instils important spiritual disciplines and helps prevent faith attrition by building strong spiritual roots.
Churches that prioritise discipleship tend to have more engaged and healthier congregations. This focus aligns with the biblical vision of presenting everyone mature in Christ.
Ultimately, thorough discipleship ensures the continued effective spread of the Gospel through well-prepared, resilient believers who are ready to face challenges and make disciples themselves.
Self-Examination. When the Church Fails to Bear Fruit.
When a church consistently fails to see new conversions, it’s time for serious introspection. Jesus’ words in John 15:1-2 are particularly relevant here: “I am the true vine, and my Father is the vinedresser. Every branch in me that does not bear fruit he takes away, and every branch that does bear fruit he prunes, that it may bear more fruit.”
This self-examination should be thorough and honest, considering several potential issues:
- Spiritual health: Is the congregation genuinely walking with Christ, or has complacency set in?
- Biblical fidelity: Is the full Gospel being preached, or has the message been watered down?
- Prayer life: Has the church neglected the power of prayer especially when focused in reaching the lost?
- Community engagement: Is the church effectively connecting with and serving its local community?
- Cultural relevance: While maintaining biblical integrity, is the church communicating in a way that resonates with contemporary culture?
- Welcoming atmosphere: Does the church provide a warm, inclusive environment for newcomers and seekers?
This could include seeking external counsel, partnering with a more effective congregation, or in extreme cases, even contemplating closure and encouraging members to join other vibrant, evangelistic churches.
The goal is not to maintain institutions for their own sake, but to ensure that the body of Christ is effectively fulfilling its mission to make disciples of all nations.
Rekindling the Fire: Aligning with God’s Purpose.
For churches that find themselves in a state of stagnation or decline in terms of evangelistic effectiveness, there is hope. The same God who ignited the early church with passion for the Gospel remains active and willing to revitalise His people today.
Rekindling this fire requires a deliberate realignment with God’s purposes and a renewed commitment to the power of the Holy Spirit.
This process of revitalisation might include:
- Repentance: Acknowledging and turning from attitudes or practices that have hindered evangelistic effectiveness.
- Renewed Focus on Prayer: Implementing church-wide prayer initiatives specifically targeting spiritual awakening and evangelistic fervour.
- Re-examination of Teaching: Ensuring that the full counsel of God, including the urgent need for evangelism, is being consistently taught.
- Rediscovery of Personal Testimony: Encouraging members to reflect on and share their own stories of transformation through Christ.
- Revaluation of Programs: Assessing all church activities through the lens of their contribution to fulfilling the Great Commission.
- Reengagement with the Community: Developing intentional strategies to connect with and serve the local area.
- Recommitment to Discipleship: Strengthening processes for nurturing new believers and equipping all members for evangelism.
- Rekindling of Mission Vision: Casting a compelling vision for the church’s role in local and global mission efforts.
When churches implement these measures, they frequently discover a revitalised sense of direction and enthusiasm. There is a new sense of energy and excitement in the realm of spiritual matters, as the Holy Spirit begins to move in unique and inspiring ways.
It’s almost like the contagious enthusiasm seen in football and tennis fandom has found its way into the spiritual realm.
Practical Steps for Churches to Embrace the Great Commission.
Moving from theory to practice, here are concrete and practical steps churches can take to cultivate a culture of evangelism and mission:
- Develop a clear, compelling mission statement that emphasises evangelism and disciple-making.
- Implement regular evangelism training programs for all members, not just a select few.
- Create opportunities for members to practice sharing their faith in safe, supportive environments before engaging with the wider community.
- Establish partnerships with local community organisations, schools, or businesses to increase the church’s presence and influence.
- Encourage small groups to adopt an outward focus, regularly engaging in service projects or evangelistic activities together.
- Celebrate testimonies of evangelistic encounters and conversions during church services to inspire and encourage the congregation.
- Allocate a significant portion of the church budget to local and global mission efforts.
- Organise regular outreach events that cater to different segments of the community (e.g., family fun days, job fairs, health clinics).
- Develop a mentoring system where experienced, seasoned evangelists can guide and encourage newer believers in sharing their faith.
- Utilise technology and social media to extend the church’s reach and create additional avenues for Gospel proclamation.
- Foster a culture of hospitality, training members to be welcoming and inclusive to visitors and newcomers.
- Regularly assess the church’s evangelistic impact through quantitative and qualitative measures, adjusting strategies as needed.
By implementing these practical steps, churches can begin to shift their culture from one of comfortable fellowship to one of dynamic, outward-focused mission.
Conclusion: A Call to Action.
As we draw this comparison between the fervour of football and tennis fandom and the often-lacklustre approach to evangelism, we are confronted with a challenging reality. The same capacity for passion, dedication, and community that we witness in sports arenas lies dormant within many churches when it comes to fulfilling the Great Commission.
Yet, this realisation should not lead us to despair, but rather to hope and action. If human beings can generate such enthusiasm for a game, how much more should the glorious message of eternal salvation stir our hearts and motivate our actions?
The call to action is clear:
- For Individual Believers: Examine your own heart. Take a moment. So, tell me “Where does your true passion lie?” Are you as excited about sharing Christ as you are about your favourite team’s prospects? Embrace the opportunity to rekindling your first love for Christ and His mission.
- For Church Leaders: Evaluate your congregation’s focus and effectiveness in evangelism. Take a moment to assess the focus and effectiveness of your congregation when it comes to evangelism. Are you seeing genuine conversion growth lately, or in the past few years? If not, have the courage, be brave and lead your church through the necessary changes to realign with God’s purposes.
- For Congregations: Embrace a culture of evangelism.
- Let’s talk about embracing a culture of evangelism.
- Let’s encourage each other to step out of our comfort zones and share the Gospel.
- Let’s rejoice in every person won for Christ with the same excitement as winning a game, scoring a goal, making a touchdown, or winning a set.
Support one another in stepping out of comfort zones to share the Gospel. Celebrate every soul won for Christ with the enthusiasm of a game-winning, goal, touchdown or set.
Imagine a church so passionate about its divine mission that its:
- Fervour surpasses that of the most devoted sports fans.
- Believers who know Scripture as thoroughly as fans know player statistics.
- Church Members who invest in Kingdom work as generously as others invest in season tickets, who feel the anguish of lost souls as keenly as the agony of a losing season.
This vision is not merely a pipedream; it is the noble purpose that every church and believer should strive for, it’s the high calling of every church and every believer.
The same God who empowered the early church to turn the world upside down indwells us today. The message we carry is not of temporal victories, but of eternal consequence. The commission we’ve been given is not the pursuit of earthly trophies, but the rescue of eternal souls.
- Let’s, therefore, rise to this challenge.
- Let’s rekindle our passion for the Great Commission.
- Let’s redirect our focus from worldly endeavours to the everlasting mission of the Kingdom.
For in doing so, we not only fulfil our divine mandate but also experience the unparalleled joy and purpose for which we were created.
May our churches become beacons of hope in our communities, our members ambassadors of Christ’s love, and our collective witness a testament to the transforming power of the Gospel.
Let the excitement, involvement, and emotional energy we pour into proclaiming the Good News far surpass anything seen in stadiums or on screens.
By engaging in this endeavour, we not only fulfil our sacred duty but also discover the incomparable happiness and meaning for which we were brought into existence. It is our utmost duty, our most esteemed honour, and the genuine gauge of a church thriving in Christ.
For this is our highest calling, our greatest privilege, and the true measure of a church alive in Christ.
