Russell Park Baptist Church – Mission Policy
“Therefore go and make disciples of all nations, baptising them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit, and teaching them to obey everything I have commanded you. And surely I am with you always, to the very end of the age."
Matthew 28:19-20
1. We are committed to playing as large a part as we can in the evangelism of the world in obedience to the Great Commission of our Lord in Matthew 28:19. To this end we are all missionaries, but this document is particularly concerned with those of our fellowship (membership) who are called out to further cross-cultural work. We aim to give to, and receive from, the church around the world.
We are trusting God for:
- People with a long-term call to mission
- People with a short-term call to mission
- Short-term teams for evangelism and servant ministries
- Close links with particular overseas churches. Not only with individuals sent out from among us.
- Opportunities to welcome overseas Christian leaders to Bedford, both to share their experiences with us and also to learn from what God is doing there
2. The principle of our support is that the primary concern of our Church is the support of those acknowledged and ‘sent out’ by the church. We will then support other causes as God guides us.
3. As our first responsibility we will support in prayer everyone who is recognised and sent by us.
4. We would hope that each missionary/missionary candidate would be linked to one or more Cell Groups and that these would take a prayerful interest in their life and work.
5. Each year some Sundays will be set aside as World Watch Sundays, when there will be an emphasis on bringing the needs of our missionaries to the wider fellowship, as well as seeking to inform and educate the church about particular aspects of ‘mission’. From time to time a new Missionary society not yet represented among our membership will be featured in order to encourage vision for other parts of the world.
6. Financial commitment and support will be given in the following ways:
a) To individuals recognised by the church going into long or short term mission
b) To a Missionary Society or organisation which is widely supported by the church and to Charitable Trusts such as those established by members of Russell Park Baptist Church.
7. The Mission Think Tank should review and agree the Mission Policy on a regular basis. Any alteration deemed necessary should be passed before the Church Leadership Team for approval.
