The Marks of a Missionary Church
The Six Marks of a Missionary Church: Lessons from Acts
The early church in Antioch provides us with a powerful model of what it means to be a missionary church. Through examining Acts 11:19-30 and Acts 13:1-3, we can identify six distinct marks that characterize a church committed to fulfilling the Great Commission. These marks remain relevant for churches today as we seek to share the gospel both locally and globally.
What Makes a Church Building Different from a Missionary Church?
We can easily identify a church building by its physical characteristics - the pulpit, baptismal font, communion table, and cross. But what identifies a true missionary church goes beyond physical structures to the heart of its mission and activities.
Mark #1: Evangelism - Telling Others About Jesus
The first mark of a missionary church is active evangelism. In Acts 11:19-20, we see believers "telling the good news about the Lord Jesus." The church in Antioch shared the gospel not only with fellow Jews but also with Gentiles.
A missionary church is committed to sharing the good news with both people they know and those they don't know. This might mean supporting missionaries in other countries, reaching out to different cultural groups in your community, or simply sharing your faith with neighbors and coworkers.
Mark #2: Commitment to Christ
Acts 11:21 tells us "the Lord's hand was with them, and a great number of people believed and turned to the Lord." The second mark is evident when people are committing their lives to Christ.
A missionary church sees regular professions of faith, baptisms of adults and children, and lives being transformed. This happens because "the Lord's hand is with them" - God is actively working through their ministry.
Mark #3: Leaders Who Encourage
The third mark is the presence of encouraging leadership. In Acts 11:23, Barnabas "encouraged them all to remain true to the Lord with all their hearts." His very name meant "son of encouragement" (Acts 4:36).
Missionary churches have leaders who consistently encourage believers to use their gifts and serve the Lord wholeheartedly. This encouragement helps people better understand God's calling for their lives and motivates them to grow in their faith.
Mark #4: Leaders Who Teach
Acts 11:26 shows that "Barnabas and Saul met with the church and taught great numbers of people." Encouragement alone isn't enough - solid biblical teaching is essential.
A missionary church prioritizes teaching through sermons, Bible studies, and discipleship groups. This teaching equips believers with the knowledge and understanding they need to live out their faith and share it with others.
Mark #5: Helping the Needy
The fifth mark is practical compassion. Acts 11:29 describes how "the disciples, as each one was able, decided to provide help for the brothers and sisters living in Judea."
Missionary churches demonstrate concern for both spiritual and physical needs. This might include food distribution programs, assistance with immigration paperwork, transportation to medical appointments, or other practical help that meets community needs.
Mark #6: Supporting Missionaries
The final mark is supporting those sent out for ministry. In Acts 13:3, the church "placed their hands on them and sent them off," showing their support for Barnabas and Saul's missionary journey.
Missionary churches financially support and pray for missionaries and ministries beyond their local congregation. This support enables the gospel to spread to new places and people groups.
Life Application
As we reflect on these six marks of a missionary church, we should ask ourselves some important questions:
How am I personally participating in evangelism? Am I actively sharing the good news of Jesus with others?
Is my commitment to Christ evident in my daily life? How has my life been transformed by the gospel?
Do I encourage others in their faith journey? How can I be more like Barnabas?
Am I growing in my knowledge of God's Word through teaching? Am I helping others learn?
How am I helping meet the needs of others, both in my church and community?
In what ways am I supporting missionary work, whether through prayer, finances, or direct involvement?
This week, choose one of these marks to focus on developing in your own life. Perhaps commit to sharing your faith with one person, encouraging someone who is struggling, or finding a practical way to help someone in need. Remember that being part of a missionary church isn't just about what happens in the building on Sunday—it's about how we live out our faith every day.
May we all strive to embody these marks of a missionary church, fulfilling Christ's command to "go and make disciples of all nations" (Matthew 28:19-20).