Acts 9:19-25 and 2 Corinthians 11:32-33
Introduction
William Carey, the father of the modern missionary movement, promoted the idea of the Christian’s responsibility to share the Gospel of Jesus Christ with the peoples of the world. After raising money for missions, the missions society of the Midlands of England started looking for their first missionary. They asked Carey if he would go. Carey responded: “I will go, . . . but remember that you must hold the ropes.” Carey and his family set sail for India on June 13, 1793.
When we send missionaries around the world, we have the responsibility to hold the ropes of missionary support.
Hold the Rope of Prayer for Missions, Matthew 9:37, cf. Matthew 10:1
Hold the Rope of Encouraging Missionaries, Acts 9:27
A. Be informed about where your missionaries are and what they are facing.
B. Write letters to your missionaries to encourage them, letting them know they are not forgotten.
Hold the Rope of Missions Giving, 2 Corinthians 9:6-15
A. Missions offering is not a part of the tithe. The tithe belongs to the local church, Malachi 3:10.
B. Missions offering is over and above the tithe, given to support missionaries in their work.
Call to Action
A. Are we holding the rope of informed and intercessory prayer for missions?
B. Are we open to God’s call to be involved in missions, either through vocational missions or short-term mission service?
C. Are we holding the rope of encouraging and writing to our missionaries?
D. Are we faithful in holding the rope of missions giving, or are we tempted to let this rope slip from our hands?
E. If so, Jesus calls you and me: “Repent, for the kingdom of heaven is at hand” (Matthew 4:17).