Question 224: How do you participate in mission?

Answer:

I participate in mission by proclaiming the Gospel of Jesus Christ in word and deed, praying for the spread of the Kingdom, supporting the Church’s outreach, and serving others with compassion. I use my time, gifts, and resources to make Christ known locally and globally. As a disciple of Jesus, I am called to live as His witness in every area of life. (Matthew 28:19–20, Acts 1:8, Colossians 4:5–6, 1 Peter 3:15)

Full Scripture References

“Therefore go and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them… and teaching them to obey all that I have commanded you. And surely I am with you always, to the very end of the age.” — Matthew 28:19–20 (BSB)

“But you will receive power when the Holy Spirit comes upon you, and you will be My witnesses… to the ends of the earth.” — Acts 1:8 (BSB)

“Act wisely toward outsiders, redeeming the time. Let your speech always be gracious, seasoned with salt, so that you will know how to answer everyone.” — Colossians 4:5–6 (BSB)

“But in your hearts sanctify Christ as Lord. Always be prepared to give a defense to everyone who asks you the reason for the hope that is in you, but respond with gentleness and respect…” — 1 Peter 3:15 (BSB)

Expanded Explanation of Catechism Question

Mission is not only the work of clergy and missionaries—it is the calling of every believer. I participate in mission by living as a witness of Christ in my home, workplace, church, and neighborhood. Whether I speak the Gospel, show hospitality, give generously, or serve the poor, I am participating in the extension of God’s Kingdom.

This mission begins with prayer. I pray for the lost, for missionaries and church planters, and for boldness in my own witness. I support global and local missions through giving, encouragement, and partnership. I also seek to share Christ personally—being ready to explain the hope I have, and living in such a way that others see the love of Jesus through me.

Canon Dr. Joel Scandrett (Trinity School for Ministry) writes, “Every Christian is a missionary because every Christian is sent. We are called to bear witness to Christ not just with words, but with our whole lives.”

Bishop Julian Dobbs (Diocese of the Living Word, ACNA) explains, “You participate in mission when you tell someone about Jesus, support a church plant, serve a neighbor, or pray for the unreached. Every act of faithfulness counts in God’s mission.”

The 1662 Book of Common Prayer supports this missionary life with prayers for “the conversion of all peoples,” for ministers of the Gospel, and for the Spirit’s power to equip and send. The Church is commissioned at every Eucharist to “go in peace to love and serve the Lord.”

J.C. Ryle wrote, “If you know Christ, you must make Him known. A silent Christian is a selfish Christian. We are saved to serve and commissioned to carry the Gospel.” (Practical Religion, 1878)

Archbishop Foley Beach (ACNA) has said, “Participating in mission means showing up, speaking up, and serving with joy. It means being the hands and feet of Jesus wherever He sends you.”

Participating in mission glorifies Christ because it spreads His Gospel, reveals His love, and fulfills His command to make disciples of all nations.

Early Church Fathers on Catechism Question

St. Augustine of Hippo (354–430 AD): “Let those who have been found now go and find. Let the redeemed proclaim the Redeemer. Christ is not to be hidden but heralded.” — Sermon 299

St. Gregory the Great (c. 540–604 AD): “Each soul that knows Christ bears a holy duty—to speak, to serve, to pray, and to go. The Church’s mission belongs to every member.” — Homilies on the Gospels, 17

St. John Chrysostom (c. 347–407 AD): “Do not say, ‘I am not a preacher.’ Let your life preach. Let your mercy speak. Let your faith shine. This is the Christian’s mission.” — Homily on Acts, 20

St. Irenaeus of Lyons (c. 130–202 AD): “The glory of the Church is to extend the work of Christ. She is His voice, His hands, and His heart in the world.” — Against Heresies, III.24.1