The Importance of Mission in the Church

Church Defined.  In today’s culture, it’s common to reject the local church in favor of a more individualistic view of faith. While this shift has helped many believers recognize their personal role in Christ, it has also led some to abandon the local fellowship, using the phrase “you are the Church” as a reason to disconnect from community. Subsequently, it has caused isolation which makes us spiritually vulnerable.   
I don’t need to convince you that YOU ARE the Church—you already know that. And you likely know that Jesus is building His Church worldwide (Matthew 16:18). But I’d like to share something the Holy Spirit showed me about the importance of the local fellowship of believers.
In 1 Timothy 3:15, Paul tells Timothy that his instructions about church leadership are so that “if I am delayed, you will know how people ought to conduct themselves in God’s household, which is the church of the living God…” (NIV). This highlights the beauty of the early Church fellowship—not just “not forsaking the fellowship of believers” (Hebrews 10:25), but in living out our faith together as a church family. You the Church (Individual)— in the Church (Local Fellowship) — as part of the Church (worldwide).
Jesus’ Mission.  As the Church of Jesus, we share a common vision—what Charlie Kirk calls “making heaven crowded.” This vision is reflected in how Jesus taught His disciples and in the Great Commission (Matthew 28).
Even at age twelve, Jesus understood His mission, telling His parents, “Did you not know that I must be about My Father’s business?” (Luke 2:49). Throughout His ministry, He consistently pointed to His purpose: doing the will of the Father and taking on the sins of the world (John 6:38; 12:49; 14:31; Matthew 26:39). Every action He took intentionally fulfilled His mission (John 3:16). 
Why a Mission is Important.  The enemy has a mission—and so does the world. That’s part of why many children are being drawn into a culture that values self over God. This is why the Church needs a mission beyond our shared strategic purpose. Your mission is your God-given purpose. It’s why your church exists in this place and time.
We celebrate the diversity of local fellowships, each fulfilling a unique mission that points to the same central goal. For COGOP, that goal is “Reconciling the world to Christ through the power of the Holy Spirit.”
Each local church’s mission supports strategic vision, shaped by three key factors:  
Gifts – the unique abilities, spiritual and physical, God has given church members
Calling – the specific need(s) God called the local church to satisfy using their gifts
Context – the unique culture within the community that drives how the church fulfills their calling, using their gifts.
How to Fulfill Your Church’s Mission
Discover Your Church’s Mission.  Seek the Holy Spirit for clarity on your church’s purpose. It will align with your gifts, calling, and context. Don’t compare your mission to others—focus on what God is asking of your church. Fast, pray, and observe how your church’s strengths meet local needs. That may reveal the door to your mission.
Write Your Mission on Everything.  Your church may have multiple mission points—write them down and let them guide every decision. For example, Living Hope Church in Abilene follows: “Make Disciples, Equip the Saints, and Reconcile the world to God through Jesus Christ.”  If an activity doesn’t support the mission, they don’t pursue it. Allow others to fulfill their calling and stick to your assignments from God.
Fulfill Your Mission.  God has given you a work to do—in your life, home, and community. Rely fully on Jesus, for “apart from Me you can do nothing” (John 15:5). Trust that “The One who calls you is faithful, and He will do it” (1 Thessalonians 5:24, NIV). God will bring others who share the vision and want to be part of what He’s doing.
Don’t Give Up.  This is often the hardest part. Discouragement comes, but remember: this is Jesus’ Church. He is building it, and He loves you—not just for what you do, but for who you are. “Let us not become weary in doing good, for at the proper time we will reap a harvest if we do not give up.” (Galatians 6:9, NIV)
Benediction. I pray blessings and strength over you as you take steps to fulfill God’s mission for yourself, your family, and your church. I pray His presence to be manifest in your life, overflowing like a spring of living water to those you interact with. For His glory and your good, Amen!