Some clarification around the definition of "mission":
In my estimation, any definition of "mission" that is not biblically faithful and culturally applicable will be problematic. We should vigorously discuss our understanding of "mission" with love and humility. This, however, should not be the main focus of our attention. We must put into practice that which we know to be true:
1. The idea of "mission" originated with God when he sent His Son to "give his life as a ransom for many" (Mark 10:45).
2. God "desires all people to be saved and come to a knowledge of the truth" (1 Timothy 2:4) and we are assured that people from "every tribe and language and people and nation" will be present in heaven (Revelation 5:9).
3. Followers of Christ have been entrusted with the message of the gospel (2 Timothy 1:14) and given the mission to make disciples wherever they go (Matt. 28:19-20, Mark 16:14-18, Luke 24:44-49, John 20:19-23, and Acts 1:4-8).
4. Even if we develop a definitive definition of "mission," followers of Christ must still apply Jesus' command "to make disciples" to their daily lives. I am not sure that we need more "head knowledge" as evangelicals as much as we need to put into practice what we already know to be true!
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