How can I know if I am being called to serve as a missionary?

Response

In one sense, every Christian is a missionary (Matthew 28:19-20). Every believer is to share Christ with others. However, some receive a specific calling to serve in another context far from their present location. The Bible does not provide a specific verse teaching us how to discover whether we are called as missionaries, but it does offer examples of those called to missionary efforts from which we can derive principles for our lives today.

First, believers should already be mature in their own faith. The missionaries of the New Testament were all individuals already mature in their faith. It is challenging to influence others if we are not secure in Christ. Furthermore, it is challenging to discern God’s call if we are not walking closely with Him.

Second, believers must be willing to consider the cost. Jesus called His disciples to leave everything to follow Him, but He also encouraged them to count the cost of doing so. He mentioned that following Him might entail conflict with family and that ridicule would occur if they failed due to lack of planning (Luke 14:26-30).

Third, believers should assess what gifts and abilities they possess to aid them in serving. God calls missionaries in the realm of evangelism, but He also calls teachers, doctors, engineers, technology experts, and individuals in many other fields of service. God will likely direct missionaries to a place where they can utilize their strengths and talents to assist those in need.

Fourth, those contemplating a call should pray earnestly concerning that calling. In Acts 13:1-5, the local church leaders

Gathered to pray and fast as part of God’s leading, Paul and Barnabas were guided into missionary service. Determining a missionary calling should involve a significant amount of prayer.

Fifth, those contemplating missionary work should seek counsel with other Christian leaders. Proverbs 15:22 teaches, “Plans fail for lack of counsel, but with many advisers they succeed.” The affirmation of other wise Christians regarding one’s desire for missionary service may strongly indicate God’s will.

Sixth, potential missionaries should consider the opportunities God has placed before them for service. God sometimes reveals His will through a specific opportunity or circumstance. It is crucial to include prayer and counsel in such situations.

When determining whether one is called to missionary work, a person should carefully consider, be courageous, seek counsel, pray, and trust God. If God has called someone to the mission field, He will equip them to impact the lives of others.