Adult
• 4 Sessions of Learner’s Materials
• 4 Sessions of Teaching Materials
• Handouts
1. Joel 2:12-19a, 25-32; Acts 2:1-16
2. Ephesians 4:4-7, 11-13
3. Jeremiah 29:4-14
4. Matthew 28:16-20
This Bible study unit closely examines the theme “Missions without Boundaries.” The challenge set forth by its four sessions is to explore the missional task of Christian disciples in light of its unlimited possibilities and extended implications. Over the course of the next four weeks, we will consider (1) The Inclusive Partnership in Missions, (2) The Diverse Giftedness for Missions, (3) The Unbounded Locations for Missions, and (4) The Holistic Message and Ministry of Missions.
Several words in the session titles—"inclusive," "diverse," "unbounded," and "holistic"—call attention to the nature of "missions without boundaries." Missions embodying these ideals will not be inherently restrictive regarding either the composition of the mission team, the talents and gifts needed for missionary service, the places where missionaries may get involved, or the kinds of ministries they can undertake in Christ’s name.
The purpose of this unit is to discover that the Bible has much to say about who should do missions, how and where they should do it, and what it is that they must do. You will see through this study that all these questions—who, how, where, and what—can be answered in ways that stretch and challenge our interpretations.
It is an incredibly daunting challenge to carry throughout the world the liberating message of God’s love revealed in the person of Christ. Therefore, we must not impose any unwarranted limitations on our understanding of missions that might hinder the Spirit’s work through the church. Let’s think as creatively and comprehensively as possible as we seek to be Christ’s disciples, doing missions without boundaries.
by Robert P. Sellers
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