Mission today

Ambivalent history

The word ‘mission’ has an ambivalent ring to it: many people link mission with a broad horizon, positive changes brought about by Christians such as Albert Schweitzer. By contrast, many think of narrowness, imposition, colonialism and cultural destruction. There have always been two sides to mission history: many people have experienced liberation and dignity through the gospel of Jesus Christ, and have found peace and new community. Often, however, missionaries have associated their commission with the exercise of power and a feeling of cultural superiority.

Path of hope

‘Mission’ comes from the Latin mittere (to send out). In the biblical sense it is primarily about the mission that goes out from God (missio dei). God entered our world in Jesus Christ and stands by all those who suffer, are written off, in the grip of fear and entangled in guilt. God’s mission means for this world of conflict opening up the path of hope, salvation, justice, life in its fullness, and overcoming the power of death. God’s transforming love and solidarity becomes tangible in the cross and resurrection of Jesus. “Peace be with you. As the father sent me, I send you,” says the risen Jesus to his disciples (John 20:21). Mission thus means sharing in God’s movement into our world and following the path of Jesus and the disciples.

Credibility

Mission is not primarily a matter of ‘doing’, but means being moved by God’s Spirit. Mission means being ‘witnesses’ to God’s transforming love – at every place on earth. The effect and reach of this witness ultimately depends on God’s Spirit. However, the words and actions of those who live out the Good News must be credible (i.e. worthy of belief). That involves showing respect towards those who are different. It also involves working for justice, peace, reconciliation, human rights and caring for creation.

Missionaries are local Christians. In the bonds across geographic, cultural and linguistic borders we can learn from one another, encourage and mutually challenge one another. The EMS Theological Guidelines thus state: „We are on a journey together towards an international ecumenical fellowship of churches and mission societies sharing our hope in the Kingdom of God.“

mission.de

The campaign mission.de initiated by EMS and many other churches, missions and associations in Germany is under the heading „for God’s sake – for love of the world“. This understanding of mission is spelled out in four dimensions of the worldwide church:

• the worldwide community of Christians – enthusiastic and with many voices
• As partners on the way – together and in solidarity
• Meeting other people – with respect and solidarity
• Standing up for justice – critical and committed