Read
Isaiah 49:4-6
Consider
The Great Commission that Jesus gave to the disciples before His ascension (Matt.28:18-20) relates to spreading the Gospel to peoples of all nations, both near and afar, Jews and non-Jews alike. The apostle Paul was transformed by God from a persecutor of Christians to a preacher for Christ to both Jews and Gentiles; so is he often called the apostle to the Gentiles. He preached the gospel throughout the Roman Empire on three missionary journeys, and wrote letters to various churches which became a significant part of the New Testament. His faithful obedience to God in His leading is an excellent example for us to follow in pondering the global mission partnership with God and His people.
Prophet Isaiah describes in this passage here that before the Messiah was born, God had already chosen him to bring the light of the gospel – the message of salvation – to the world (Luke 2:30-32). Jesus offered salvation to all nations, and the apostles began the missionary movement to take this gospel to the end of the earth (Acts 13:47). To the present day, mission work continues the Lord Jesus’ great commission (Matt.28:18-20), bringing the light of the gospel to all nations, partnering with God as ambassadors of the truth and light, and pointing people to Christ to receive him as Lord and Savior.
The challenge given to us this day is: are we in line in our meditation and action with the challenge of the great commission given by Jesus? Do we support evangelism and missionary efforts with our sacrificial dedication and financial contribution? Do we offer to God the spiritual gifts given to us to help spread the message of Jesus to the ends of the earth? God wants us to be involved! What can we do in our response?
Deacon Samuel Chan
Pray
Gracious Lord Jesus, guide me today that as a follower of you, on the pathways to be a mature Christian in Christ in my deeds and speech. Help us understand what we should do to continue fervently the salvation work started since your ascension, and how we would extend it to be proclaimed to the ends of the earth for the redemption of your people before your coming back. May the Holy Spirit continue to guide us to live a holy life so that others would see a glimpse of the glory of God who dwells in us.
Diving Deeper
Discuss on how we could be a “light for the Gentiles” (v.6)? What would be the motivation?
Share on what would be essential to be partners of God in missional work, in terms of a person’s spirituality and maturity of character. What are the main hindrances?
How can we live closer WITH GOD in our lives?
How are we being TRANSFORMED to be more like Christ?
How is the Holy Spirit empowering us to imitate Christ in what we DO this week?