Instructions For Kingdom Assignments - How to Live as a Disciple of Christ

“Again Jesus said, “Peace be with you! As the Father has sent me, I am sending you.” (John 20:21, NIV)

“I am the vine; you are the branches. If you remain in me and I in you, you will bear much fruit; apart from me you can do nothing.” (John 15:5, NIV)

Having been a practicing disciple of Jesus Christ in cross-cultural ministry, in the frontlines and in the insecure and war-prone areas of our world, I can testify, He who calls gives good instructions and is true to His words.

One time, God specifically revealed to me that the ministry I lead should be established in the horn region of Africa. This includes countries like Djibouti, Eritrea, Somalia, Sudan, and Ethiopia. While in a prayer meeting, a visiting guest told us that God had spoken to her that we should start in Djibouti. Not only that, but there was a specific place to go in this country and a specific name of someone who would meet us there. By His providence, we traveled to Djibouti the next day. When we traveled to this place, that person was waiting for us. She said God revealed to her that we would come, even giving her a sign as to how to identify us. She even offered to host us for the whole next week. This was the start of how God led us to establish His work in that country. The ministry continues to flourish to this day.

Jesus had also given His disciples specific instructions before sending them out on mission. They were not to go among the Gentiles or enter any town of the Samaritans. Rather, they were being sent to the lost sheep of Israel.

Concerning what message they were to carry was also clarified. It was to proclaim that the kingdom of heaven was near. Under the given authority, they were to heal the sick, raise the dead, cleanse those who had leprosy and drive out demons. This authority was freely given and it was to be freely received.

This mission was to be executed without any gold or silver or copper. They were to travel light without any bag for the journey or extras. Once they entered any village, they were to search for some worthy person, enter their home, and if the home is deserving, bring a peace greeting and stay at that house until they leave. They were being sent like sheep among wolves. Therefore, they were to be as shrewd as snakes and as innocent as doves, staying on guard.

The mission would be challenging but they were told not to worry. At the right time they would be given what to say, for it would not be them speaking, but the Spirit of the Father speaking through them.

Before Jesus ascended, He again gave instructions to His disciples, telling them they have been given authority to go and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit, and teaching them to obey everything He had commanded them.

In my missional journey over the last 30 years, I have come to realize prayer is the greater work. As a Spirit-led mission, receiving guidance on all we do protects us from leaning on our own understanding. A prayer culture invited the Lordship of Christ, so that under His instructions, we will carry out His mission. It has been the only way to accomplish a work whose fruit is sustained and His presence remains.

Reflection: Has God ever given you specific instructions for an assignment? Have you followed and continue to abide by the instructions? Have you made it a priority to spend time with Him to hear what He is inviting you to and how it is to be done?