
How Jesus Accomplished His Mission
Here are some primary methods by which Jesus fulfilled His mission:
1. Incarnation --- He Entered the World
"The Word was incarnated and resided among us..." (John 1:14)
Jesus approached. He did not remain aloof from suffering---He engaged with it. He lived among others, experienced their adversities, spoke in their language, and immersed himself in their culture.
Application: Ministers now must engage directly in the lives of those they serve -- not only delivering sermons from afar, but accompanying individuals in their joys and sorrows. The mission is relational rather than just informative.
2. Compassion --- He Possessed Profound Affection
"Upon observing the multitude, He felt compassion for them..." (Matthew 9:36)
Jesus viewed individuals not as mere enterprises, but as lost and suffering sheep. He restored, nourished, attended, and lamented. His purpose was motivated by affection, not just obligation.
Application: Contemporary ministry must be driven by genuine love and compassion. In the absence of compassion, a purpose transforms into a mere transactional endeavor.
3. Proclamation --- He Announced the Kingdom
"Repent, for the kingdom of heaven is at hand." (Matthew 4:17)
Jesus effectively conveyed the gospel. His teaching pertained to the emergence of God's dominion manifesting in the world via Him.
Application: The current faithful mission entails a candid and audacious declaration of the gospel---neither diluting its message nor dissociating it from corresponding acts.
4. Exhibition --- He Embodied the Message
"The sightless regain vision, the disabled walk... and the gospel is announced to the impoverished." (Luke 7:22)
Jesus demonstrated the Kingdom via acts of healing, justice, kindness, and authority. He substantiated His teachings with concrete actions.
Application: Ministry today must include both proclamation and action --- disseminating the gospel while addressing tangible needs (e.g., justice, healing, support for the impoverished).
5. Multiplication --- He Formed Disciples
"Follow Me, and I shall transform you into fishers of men." (Matthew 4:19)
Jesus did not undertake His mission in isolation; He mentored others to perpetuate and amplify it. He spent much in a select few to ensure the objective would go beyond himself.
Application: Clerics and leaders need to focus discipleship and leadership cultivation. The purpose expands as we empower others to advance it.
6. Sacrifice --- He Offered His Life
"The Son of Man arrived... to sacrifice His life as a redemption for many." (Mark 10:45)
Jesus' mission was arduous -- it demanded His whole sacrifice. He ascended the cross to vanquish sin and facilitate reconciliation with God.
Application: A genuine purpose may need sacrifice --- of time, comfort, reputation, and even safety. The mission is formed like a cross.
Final Thought
Jesus' purpose transcended mere obligation; it was a lifestyle. He epitomized truth, love, justice, and grace. He engaged people completely -- physically, emotionally, and spiritually.
For Today's Ministers:
- Be incarnational -- engage in the authentic experiences of individuals.
- Proclaim with conviction, love profoundly.
- Embodiment of your teachings.
- Educate others --- do not go in isolation.
- Exhibit a readiness to make sacrifices.
Adhering to Jesus' mission model will ensure that our activities remain loyal to the gospel while addressing the profound needs of the world.
