What Did Jesus Send Us to Do?
What are we doing when we build a ministry disconnected from the mission Christ gave before He ascended?
"All authority in heaven and on earth has been given to me. Therefore go and make disciples of all nations... teaching them to obey everything I have commanded you."
Jesus did not commission His church to eradicate poverty, drill wells, build hospitals, or solve every social problem. Those are wonderful acts of mercy—but they are not the church's mission. He commissioned His church to make disciples.
Why?
Because Christ purchased His bride with His own blood. The risen King is gathering a people from every tribe, tongue, and nation who will one day sit with Him at the marriage supper of the Lamb. He has invited His church to participate in that glorious work.
Does that mean Christians ignore physical needs?
Of course not.
When the gospel transforms a people, they become salt and light. They love their neighbors. They open their homes. They sacrifice for one another.
"They sold their possessions and distributed the proceeds to all, as any had need." (Acts 2)
Will hungry people be fed? Yes. Because disciples care for the hungry.
Will wells be dug? Yes. Because those who have received the Living Water are compelled to love those around them.
Will hospitals be built? Often. Because followers of Christ care for the sick.
But notice the order.
The church does not make disciples because it digs wells. God's transformed people dig wells because Christ has made them disciples.
The transformation from the gospel is not the reward for our compassion; it is the source of it.
This is why our family is investing in theological education, local churches, and church planting in Zambia. We are convinced that healthy churches, led by faithful pastors, are God's ordinary means for bringing lasting transformation to communities. Wherever the gospel takes root, mercy follows. But if we reverse that order, we may improve people's lives for a moment while leaving them unprepared for eternity.
The greatest need in every village, every city, and every nation is not cleaner water, better healthcare, or greater prosperity.
It is reconciliation with God through Jesus Christ.
