While the Lord does call some to journey across the globe and spread the Gospel in other countries, for MOST Christians His desire is for them to simply share the Gospel right where they are at. What a powerful testimony it is for those who knew us BEFORE we came to Christ to see what He has done in our lives since. They know the change because they knew us before we were saved.

God is calling some to be missionaries (although a lot of the missionaries are now coming FROM places like Africa and South America TO Europe and the United States), but He is also calling doctors, lawyers, merchants, business administrators, and housewives to STAY right where they are at and reach those whom He puts them into contact with right where they are.

From what you have said, it sounds like your friend might be struggling a little bit with issues of pride. If we have anything in which to glory, anything in which to boast, it is in Christ alone, not our service to Him (1 Corinthians 1:31). When we judge another believer as “weak” because they do not serve the Lord in the same way that we do, we are guilty of judging the Lord’s servants. They are His servants, not ours (Romans 14:4).

Very good post, Tishrei, thanks!

That sounds very legalistic and a little like pressuring people to take care of someone else’s children while neglecting their own.

Everybody has their individual calling and area of ministry. For some it may be abroad, while for others it is up the street. That’s why we are all “different” members of one body.

This also sounds a little like the tithe. Many people have a legalistic view of giving and do not realize we are no longer under the tithe.

I don’t think he is taking into consideration that most Americans simply cannot afford to travel abroad. And I don’t think their employers would appreciate them taking a few months off every year, or even as a one time occurrence, to do this.

And it seems he may also be a little righteous about what he is able to give as opposed to what others can. It brings to mind the poor widow who was only able to throw in a few mites, but Jesus said she gave more than those who were able to give of their abundance.

That’s just it — a great share of the US population does not know God and they’re not flocking into our churches on their own. We’re to take it to them. That’s what a missionary does, take the Gospel to the lost. It has nothing to do if we leave our country of origin.

I really agree with you on this one….. A great share of the US population has no knowledge of God or their need for salvation….. It’s like they are blind and don’t have a clue about their sinful nature or how condemned they are in their natural state….. Your friend should read “Danny, My Very Most Favorite”….. Danny was a real missionary that touched the hearts of so many.

Margaret