Scripture
John 17:18 • John 16:12-15 • John 20:21-22 • Acts 2:1-13; 42-47
Theological Background
Christian mission is Trinitarian: God the Father sends the Son. God and Jesus send the Spirit. Together, the Trinity sends the Church. This Trinitarian understanding of mission grounds all mission work in the very nature of God. Mission is not just something the church does; it flows from who God is. The Father initiates mission, the Son models and completes mission, and the Spirit empowers and sustains mission. When we engage in mission, we participate in the ongoing work of the Triune God in the world.
Questions for Discussion
1. Why is it important to acknowledge that mission is the work of a triune God -- Father, Son, and Holy Spirit?
Reflect on this question and discuss with your group.
2. How do you see the three persons of God all actively involved in mission?
Reflect on this question and discuss with your group.
3. Read the Acts passage listed above. What difference does the presence of the Holy Spirit make in the mission of the church?
Reflect on this question and discuss with your group.
Additional Mission Resources
Complement your theological study with practical mission trip preparation resources: