As believers, we are called to a profound mission that reaches beyond ourselves, our families, and the church walls. Our ultimate purpose on this earth is to exalt God by evangelizing the lost. As outlined in the Great Commission, this is not just a calling for pastors or missionaries but for every follower of Christ.

In Acts 20:21, the Apostle Paul provides a powerful example of a life dedicated to Jesus's command:

"...solemnly testifying to both Jews and Greeks about repentance toward God and faith in our Lord Jesus Christ."

Paul's commitment to sharing the gospel with everyone, regardless of background, reminds us that evangelism is not limited by nationality, ethnicity, or status. It is a call to all who would believe the message of repentance and faith in Christ. Paul’s life exemplifies obedience to Jesus’ command in Matthew 28:18-20:

“All authority has been given to Me in heaven and on earth. Go therefore and make disciples of all the nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and the Son and the Holy Spirit, teaching them to keep all that I commanded you; and behold, I am with you always, even to the end of the age.”

Christ’s resurrection from the dead proved His authority over sin and death, making Him the rightful King of both heaven and earth. In light of this truth, Jesus instructs His followers to go and make disciples, teaching them to obey all His commands.

This, beloved, is the church's mission—and it is the mission of every believer.

Some are called to go to distant lands, some to our cities, others to our own families, but all are called to proclaim the good news. Evangelism is not a suggestion; it is a mandate from our Savior. The church exists to snatch unbelievers from the fires of hell by preaching Christ crucified.

As Charles Spurgeon once said:

"The treasury of the church is the liberality of God. The power of the church is the omnipotence of Jehovah. The persuasions of the church are the irresistible influences of the Holy Ghost. The destiny of the church is an ultimate conquest over all the sons of men."

The church’s destiny is victory through the preaching of the gospel and the power of the Holy Spirit. While the world may mock or scoff at the message of the cross, as Paul notes in 1 Corinthians 1:17-31, the gospel is "the power of God" to those being saved:

"For the word of the cross is foolishness to those who are perishing, but to us who are being saved, it is the power of God."

God turns the tables in a world that prides itself on human wisdom and strength. He chooses what is weak and foolish in the eyes of the world to shame the wise. He uses those of humble status to carry His message of redemption so that no one can boast in themselves. As A.W. Tozer said:

"The Christian church seems to have a variety of concerns, but in reality, it has only one reason for being—and that is to show forth the life and mercy and grace of Jesus Christ."

Ultimately, our eloquence, wisdom, or strength will not bring people to Christ. The power of the gospel is what brings people to Christ, and our calling is to be faithful in proclaiming it.

Like every faithful church, Grace Bible Church exists to exalt God by expositing His Word and equipping the saints to evangelize the lost. This is our purpose, our mission, and why we exist. And it is a mission worth giving our lives for, as Paul did so that unbelievers may be rescued from the fires of hell and brought into the kingdom of God.

So let us go, proclaiming Christ crucified and boasting not in ourselves but in the Lord.