Bibical Thelogy of Mission Research Paper Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 1500 words

Bibical Thelogy of Mission - Research Paper Example Biblical (Old and New Testament) Texts That Relate To Mission The theology of missions is wholly a biblical concept.1 A careful and spiritual analysis of the bible reveals a solid foundation for missions. The biblical texts prove that missions are not an afterthought creation of God, but rather an intention emanating from his providential nature. According to Glasser (2003), Missio Dei concept confirms the truth that the biblical mission begins with God.2 In reference to Genesis 3 that describes the fall of man, God is exemplified as initiating a mission to rescue man kind from the bondage of sin and guide him back to His fold. The chapter introduces the aspect of mission that dominates the Old and New and Testament, with God strategizing to reach out to human beings. One of the relevant Old Testament texts that discuss the concept of God’s mission upon human being’s life is Genesis 12: 1-3 that offers the description of the Abrahamic Covenant. The passage captures God initiating a covenant with Abram who later undergoes spiritual transformation to Abraham. God explained to him His intention of making him a great nation, bless him and those that bless him as well as curse those who curse him. While commissioning His mission to Abraham, the passage asserts, â€Å"....and in thee shall all families of the earth be blessed† (Gen. 12:3). The fulfillment of this promise is affirmed by Moses in the opening Chapter of Deuteronomy. After looking at the large crowd of people gathered and poised to enter the Promised Land, Moses laments, â€Å"The Lord has increased your numbers today so that you are as many as the stars in the sky.† (Deut. 1: 10). The increase in number is part of the promise that through Joshua, Israelites will conquer the Promised Land; Canaan. The concept of mission is further discussed in the New Testament. A New Testament text that supports the firm biblical foundation for mission is Matt. 28: 19-20. God’s command s the church to continue with the mission of enlightening and converting more people to become believers, â€Å"Go ye therefore, and teach all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Ghost† (Matt.28: 19). The book of Mathew does not account for ascension, but always focuses on the Messiah and his messengers. Another text relating to the mission in the New Testament is Luke 4: 16-30 where Jesus defines his mission on his first appearance in public life. He refers to prophetic Isaiah and proclaims that He is the sent Messiah. The passage, â€Å"†¦This day is this scripture fulfilled in your ears.† (Luke 4: 21), affirms the fulfillment of the God’s promise; sending a Messiah to save the world from the bondage of sin. The Nature of God In Relation To Missions The personality of God can be explained through focus on His personality and attributes. According to 1st John 4:8, God is described as love. Those committed to p ropagate the course of the gospel are expected to assume this nature; love.3 It is only through acquiring Godly love that one can be encouraged to preach the gospel to the non-believers and destitute. Another personality of God, described by 1 Peter 1: 16, is