The Great Commission (Matthew 28.19-20) is the Lord’s final instruction to his church before he ascended to his heavenly abode. The primary task he left for his church to accomplish is to “makedisciples.” One must not miss the fact that the very first word that introduces this final instruction is “go.” Making disciples involves going out and making the effort to reach those who do not yet confess Jesus as the Savior and Lord of their lives.
The third declaration of Vallejo International’s purpose statement acknowledges this truth: we are to “purposefully engage the unchurched with the gospel of Jesus Christ.” Perhaps a few definitions are in order.
The “unchurched” simply means those who are not currently members of and not consistently involved in a church that is firmly founded on the gospel and the teachings of Scripture. This definitely includes those who have not made a personal decision to acknowledge Jesus as the only Savior and Lord. It also includes those who may have made that personal decision but somehow haven’t become involved in a church that is faithful to the gospel and the Word of God.
To “purposefully engage … with the gospel” means to touch lives with the truth of the gospel of Jesus Christ. It’s not just about connecting with those outside the church but connecting with the ultimate purpose of giving others the opportunity to receive the wonderful gift of salvation in Jesus and to experience the benefits of his leadership in their lives. This cannot happen by accident. Followers of Christ must be purposeful in offering the gospel to others. We “go” with a distinct purpose.
The Bible indicates that there are at least two church functions that provide the means to accomplish this purpose: Proclamation and Outreach. “Proclamation” is verbal witness to the gospel. It includes preaching, teaching, and one-on-one sharing of the gospel. “Outreach” focuses on actions or activities that demonstrate the truth of the gospel. Proclamation and outreach often work together. In Vallejo International, the fulfillment of this declared purpose includes sending of missionaries in short-term mission trips (such as World Changers, Cambodia mission trip), giving of financial support for missionary endeavors (such as Lottie Moon and Annie Armstrong Missions Offerings), as well as participation in missionary projects (such as Evergreen ministry, Operation Christmas Child).
Exalting God and empowering believers to faithful discipleship must naturally lead to engaging the unchurched with the gospel. It must always be clear that it’s not just about doing good deeds. The end goal always is to touch others with the gospel of Jesus that they may come to that place in their lives where they see their need for Christ and make the choice to surrender to his leadership.
—Keith Y. Jainga