Growing up in the UK church, when the word “mission” was mentioned, I’d instinctively picture overseas work. The phrase “mission field” conjured up images of far-away countries with people I perceived as different from myself. Was I correct in my definition?
David Baldwin, CEO of 2:19 Teach to Reach – which exists to help local churches share the gospel cross-culturally – maintains that there is a difference between evangelism and mission: “Whereas evangelism means sharing the gospel with those in our usual circles, mission always involves movement across some kind of boundary; geographical, cultural, ethnic or other.”
Christian charity Friends International knows that this “movement” can be daunting, and aims to cross potential cultural barriers through “hubs” intended to give international students – in this case – “the chance to experience British culture at its best and the opportunity to hear about Christianity.”
‘To the ends of the earth’
According to J.P. Earnest – Field Operations Manager at evangelism organisation Open Air Mission (OAM) – it can be a challenge to get people inside churches to hear the gospel. “Since 1853, we have sought to reach them outside, where they are,” he told en. “Through Biblical and winsome preaching our evangelists and associate workers engage with passers-by and point them to the Lord Jesus. This often opens up conversations where the gospel is applied more personally.” OAM’s evangelists are equipped with tracts, leaflets, John’s Gospels, and/or other literature to offer freely.
Further endeavouring to bridge this potential “barrier” between church and community is Counties, an organisation that seeks to inspire and equip local churches to make Jesus known. Martin Erwin, CEO, told en that the organisation works through a network of evangelists and church planters, and runs initiatives such as developing school resources and running neighbourhood chaplaincy projects that respond to local practical and spiritual needs. Erwin described the organisation’s heart: “We’re passionate about seeing lives transformed by Jesus.”
United by shared mission
In last month’s print edition, en covered Life ’26 – a nationwide gospel mission, planned for spring 2026, overseen by A Passion for Life (APFL). Alex Hillman, APFL’s Communications and Operations lead, described the organisation’s passion for making a difference locally: “With people increasingly aware of their spiritual bankruptcy, we’re stepping out into this opportune time, asking the question ‘Ever feel like something’s missing?’ and offering the invitation to ‘Find Life in Jesus’.”
Hillman continued: “Whatever shape Life ’26 takes in each locality, we’re uniting under a common banner to reach our communities with the gospel.”
However you define “mission”, the Bible is clear: “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.” Jesus offers words of great comfort: “And surely I am with you always, to the very end of the age” (Matt. 28v19-20).
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