Missions

By Jack Enright
Additions by: Pastor Phaedra Alton

Gateway International Bible Institute

4445 W. Olive Ave.
Glendale, AZ 85302
(602) 993-5353
1
GIBI Course- Missions

Lesson 1
What comes to mind when you hear the word “missionary?” Is it a man in a white
tropical suit, wearing a pith helmet, and standing before a group of native children, seated
on the ground in the filth around them? Is it a doctor, or nurse, weary from long hours of
giving injections, pouring ointments into open, running sores? What is your concept of
missionary activity in this enlightened twentieth century? Times change, people change,
approaches change, and the methods change. But do they really? What were the
methods used by Paul, the Apostle to the Gentiles? What made him the successful
missionary-apostle-evangelist that he was to become? Is it possible for us, today, to have
the same measure of success as this man from Tarsus? Let’s first define some terms:

Ambassador: II Corinthians 5:20; “Now then we are ambassadors for Christ, as though
God did beseech you by us, we pray you in Christ’s stead, be reconciled to God.”
Webster’s definition: the highest-ranking diplomatic representative appointed by one
country or government to represent it to another, an official messenger or agent with a
special messenger.
Strong’s Concordance: act as a representative; fig. to be a preacher.

Missionary: Webster’s Dictionary: not a Biblical term. Man-made to denote one “who is
sent on a mission; specifically a person sent out by his church to preach, teach, and to
make proselytes, as in a foreign country considered to be heathen.”

Disciple: one who accepts and assists in spreading the doctrines of another: as one of the
twelve in the inner circle of Christ's followers according to the Gospel accounts.

Apostle: (as compared to the word “disciple”) – a learner; the word “apostle” means one
who is “sent forth.” A delegate; an ambassador of the Gospel; officially a commissioner
of Christ (apostle) with miraculous powers. Let’s look at the word apostle just a little
closer. What constituted an individual being called an apostle? Paul was an apostle by
virtue of:
1. A Calling: Romans 1:1; I Cor. 1:1 Eph. 1:1; Col. 1:1 – “By the will of God”, II
Cor. 1:1 (above also ties in here.). “Grace and apostleship came by Jesus Christ.”
Romans 1:5; I Cor. 15:10. Apostles were chosen – Acts 1:2. Paul was called the
“Apostle to the Gentiles.” One of the five ministry gifts of Ephesians 4:11.
Apostles were set in the church, I Cor. 12:28-29.
A. Paul called himself an apostle – I Cor. 9:1; Gal. 1:1; Col. 1:1; I Tim. 1:1;
2:7; II Tim. 1:1, 11; Titus 1:1; The Corinthians were his seal of
apostleship. I Cor. 9:2; II Cor. 11:28.

2. Disciples became apostles: Matthew 10:1-2, “He gave them power against
unclean spirits – to cast them out – to heal all manner of sickness and all manner
of disease.” In verse 1, Jesus calls the twelve disciples to him and gives them this
charge, and then in verse 2, the Bible states, “Now the names of the twelve
apostles are these…” In verse 5, Jesus sends the twelve forth, and commands

2
GIBI Course- Missions

them, saying, “Go…” and you can read the various commands given in vv. 5-42.
It is important that we look at the Gospel of Luke for a supporting reference to the
above. Luke 6:13 “And when it was day, he called unto Him His disciples: and of
them He chose twelve, whom also He called apostles.” These apostles are called
the “Apostles of Jesus Christ, or the Apostles to the Lamb” Rev. 21:14. Sent to
the lost sheep of the House of Israel. Apostles to the Jews (circumcision). Paul
and Barnabas were Apostles to the Gentiles – Paul called such by the Lord. Acts
9:15, Paul and Barnabas stated so in Acts 13:46. Apostles reported to Jesus and
told Him what they had done and taught. Mark 6:30; Luke 9:10. They were
persecuted, but obedient to the faith. Apostles and prophets the foundation of the
Household of God – Jesus Christ being the Chief cornerstone. Eph. 2:20.
Knowledge revealed to the holy apostles and prophets by the Spirit. Eph. 3:5.
There were false apostles just as there are false prophets in the church. Rev. 2:2.
Holy apostles and prophets will be avenged by the destruction of Babylon. Rev.
18:20. The early Church continued in the Apostle’s Doctrine and fellowship.
Acts 2:42.

3. The signs of the apostle, II Cor. 12:12, “Truly the signs of an apostle were
wrought among you in all patience, in signs and wonders, and mighty deeds.”
See also Heb. 3:4; Acts 2:43, 5:12.

What Were the Qualifications of an Apostle?

These following notes of qualifications for an apostle were taken from the Dickson Bible.

1. Necessary to have seen the Lord and be a witness of that to which He attested,
Acts 1:20-25. See also I Cor. 15:8; I Cor. 9:1; Acts 9:5; Gal. 1:11-24; Eph. 3:3.
2. Had to be called to the office by Christ.
3. The apostle must be Divinely inspired, I Cor. 2:10; Gal. 1:11-12; I Pet. 1:25.
4. Power to perform miracles, Credentials, I Cor. 12:8-11; II Cor. 12:12.
5. Care of all the churches rather than a pastor of a local church, II Cor. 11:28.
6. They decided controversies and had the right to exercise discipline, I Cor. 5:3-6;
II Cor. 10:8; 13:10.

3
GIBI Course- Missions

Lesson 2
“After this I looked and there before me was a great multitude that no one
could count, from every nation, tribe, people and language, standing before the
throne and in front of the Lamb. They were wearing white robes and were
holding palm branches in their hands.”
Revelations 7:9

Culture
Have you ever been to a different country? You must realize that there is a vast variety
of people with different ways of life. Each country and even different groups within each
country have their own culture. If someone has never been exposed to other societies or
cultures, as normal, they believe that their ways, ideas, traditions etc. are not only right
but the only way. The first time they see people from other cultures do something
differently; their reaction might be that “they’re doing it wrong”. This is a natural
reaction. We should never judge others ‘ways’ but we should learn from them. Each
culture has its own strengths and weaknesses that we can learn from. This is the beauty
of traveling to another country; it’s an opportunity to not only help others but to come to
know another way of life.

Cultural Differences
Different notions of time: don’t get frustrated if nothing starts ‘on time’. Many cultures
around the world are event-oriented instead of time-oriented. Many cultures just don’t
understand the American urgency to ‘be on time’. Just relax and be flexible.
Cleanliness: in some cultures people may not be in the habit of bathing daily. Be
prepared to go a few days without bathing. You may not have a choice, or the luxury of
bathing every day. Water supply may also be a factor in some areas.
Language barrier: Americans usually travel with the notion that everyone everywhere
should speak English. You are the ‘outsider’; learning a few key phrases is essential to
making yourself understood.
Food: look at meals as adventures. Refusing to eat the meal that your host has provided
in your honor will be seen as an insult. Be prepared to eat all the foods given to you.
Privacy: living in the United States, we tend to guard our privacy and our time alone as
one of our most precious freedoms. In most other cultures, however, privacy is neither a
priority nor a possibility. Prepare yourself to be crammed into busses, to share
bathrooms, and to give up some of your closely guarded personal space.

Apologetics: Arguments in support or justification of something.

Giving your Testimony

“Preach the Word; be prepared in season and out of season; correct,
rebuke and encourage – with great patience and careful instruction…”
II Timothy 4:2-4

4
GIBI Course- Missions

Your personal testimony can be a powerful tool for sharing your faith with someone else.
Remember to keep your testimony simple and free from ‘Christianese’; words such as
‘saved,’ ‘convicted’, born again’, and ‘sin’. These words don’t mean much to the un-
saved. Don’t be too wordy, or beat around the bush; just be straight and to the point.
Share your testimony with enthusiasm in the power of the Holy Spirit. Speak loudly and
clearly. Avoid preaching to people, and remember to smile.

Leading a Person to Christ

Explain simply how to ask Christ to become their personal Savior. Show them what God
says in His Word, like ‘God loves you so much that He wants you to be with Him now
and always’ or ‘Those who do wrong do not please God, for God is perfect and good.’
When the person trusts Christ and believer that Jesus took the punishment for their sin,
encourage them to thank God in their own words that Jesus did this for them. Explain
further that when a Christian sins, he should tell God of the sin and ask Him to forgive
him for Jesus’ sake. Encourage the person to tell others that they trust Jesus as their
Savior and that they have just become a Christian. Share with the person that they must
now get in the Word so they can grow spiritually.

Speaking Through an Interpreter

When speaking in front of a congregation with the aid of an interpreter, use the following
guidelines:
• Know your material by having it divided in short sentences.
• Use simple, common language – avoid big words or American slang.
• Keep eye contact with the whole audience.
• Speak loudly to the audience; make sure your interpreter can hear you.
• If possible, give your interpreter your scripture references ahead of time.
• Speak in short phrases, thoughts and ideas, and then pause to let the interpreter
interpret what you have just said.
• Wait for your interpreter to finish, and then proceed with another short phrase, or
thought.

5
GIBI Course- Missions

Lesson 3
Leading a Missions Trip
If you are feeling led to head up a mission team, make sure that before you declare to
everyone that you are off to some far off land, meet with the people and committees
responsible for giving permission to such a trip; you want to be sent by your church with
their blessing. Share what God has placed on your heart; get the leadership’s permission
and instruction before you proceed.
Once you have determined that God is leading you to go on a mission trip, here are some
things to think about:
Who do you want to reach and how might you do that?
Who do you want to recruit to go with you?
How much will it cost?
What time of the year are you going?

After your dates are set and the location is decided upon, you are now ready to recruit
your team. Recruit a leadership team and the outreach team, this way you are not doing
everything on your own; be sure to include everyone going so they have a sense of
purpose and they take ownership. Some leadership roles that you may want to fill are: a
team leader; a spiritual leader; a bookkeeper; and chaperones. Some outreach roles may
be: a fundraising coordinator; a devotional leader / teacher; worship leader; video /
camera person. As soon as possible, have an information night and invite anyone who
might be interested in joining you. Schedule periodic meetings for keeping everyone
informed, make sure you have time for prayer as a team. Start fundraising and collecting
money, and remember to stay organized. You will be responsible for keeping track of all
important documents for your team, and also keeping them on track with passports and
vaccines. If you have youth under 18 traveling with you they must have an ‘affidavit of
temporary guardian and consent to travel’ form filled out and notarized. When it’s time
to go, have your church send you out with prayer.

Goals for mission trips

Missions play a vital role in fulfilling the Great Commission. God can move in the lives
of everyone involved. Mission trips show people the life of the Kingdom of God through
relationships and actions as a ministry team. As a team we can share a clear message of
the love of God and the relationship that we have with Jesus. We can plant seeds of the
gospel through friendships and our testimonies. Mission teams can pray and do spiritual
warfare for the communities that you visit; missionaries also encourage the local
believers. We can show them how to trust God and provide for them. We are to go
willing to be open to how we can respond to God’s call to ‘Go into all the world’ and to
give, pray, and to go as God would lead and direct us.

Ways to prepare yourself for a mission’s trip

Physical: missions is hard work, which usually involves strenuous activity. If you are
taking medication, consult your Dr. You can check with your local health department for
vaccinations.

6
GIBI Course- Missions

Spiritual: pray and read your Word. Begin to prepare your heart now for the people you
are going to meet. Pray for the country and people group you will be traveling to. Do
some research on the locals; get to know what they’re about before your arrival.

Practical: if you are going to be traveling outside of the United States, you will need a
passport. Passports can take up to six weeks or longer to process, so apply in plenty of
time.

Travel Safety Tips

1. Never leave your luggage. Don’t bring what you can’t carry on your own.

2. Keep your backpack secure and locked when walking around in large cities.

3. Do your best to blend in. Don’t draw attention to yourself; take every
opportunity to wear local clothing and to participate in local customs.

4. Do Not go out alone. Stay in a group, especially after dark. It’s very
important to inform your leader of your whereabouts.

5. Keep your money and passport safe. Keep a very small amount of cash
with you. Ladies, it’s best to bring a purse with a long strap that you can put
over your head and wear across your body.

6. Become familiar with the local currency. Know the exchange rate, and if
necessary carry a calculator.

7. Watch what you wear. Don’t wear lots of money; meaning your clothes and
jewelry speak volumes about your wealth and status, and can be a hindrance
to your ministry.

7
GIBI Course- Missions

Lesson 4
Paul: The Apostolic Missionary
His Preparation and Calling
There is no mention of Saul of Tarsus until the eighth chapter of Acts (actually reference
is made in Acts 7:48) when it states, “And Saul was consenting unto his (Stephen’s)
death. This future apostle to the Gentiles was busy “for” God, because he was making
“havoc of the church, entering into every house, haling men and women committed them
to prison.” Vs. 3. He was a “religious” person in need of a revelation from the Holy
Spirit. See Galatians 1:11-17. Part of that revelation came as he was at the stoning of
Stephen, because he heard and saw what went on.
1. He heard Stephen’s testimony (this is only supposition on my part because the
Bible does not specifically mention Saul as being among the number.
Nevertheless, he was one of the persecutors of the church; bound people and
delivered them to the authorities. It is possible that he was instrumental in
Stephen’s arrest.)
2. Then he would also have heard Stephen’s declaration of the revelation the Lord
gave him through the Holy Spirit, vv. 55-56.
3. Saul was there for the martyrdom of Stephen through stoning. He heard the
words of the dying man, “Lord, Jesus, receive my spirit, he spoke of immortality:
Lord, lay not this sin to their charge – he spoke of forgiveness.” And then
Stephen fell asleep, or died. Saul saw and heard all of this. I am confident that he
weighed these things in his spirit and in his mind, and mulled them over, and God
used them to draw this rebel unto Himself.

His testimony in Galatians 1:15 is; “When it pleased God, who separated me from my
mother’s womb, and called me by His grace.” God’s foreknowledge directed Saul’s life
to the time of his conversion. See also Philippians 2:13. All that he saw and heard did
not stop him in his determination to persecute the “sect of the Nazarene.” He went to the
high priest for letters of authority to take to Damascus. It was on that road the Lord Jesus
Christ appeared to Saul, and arrested his attention. Let’s look at some of the highlights of
Acts 9.
1. Jesus reveals Himself – vv. 4-5.
2. Saul’s immediate response is one of submission – v. 6 in Damascus.
3. Three days blind and fasted from food and water – v. 9.
4. Ananias, a vessel prepared to teach Saul, vv. 10-16.
5. He spent “certain” days with the disciples and began to preach in the synagogues
that Christ is the Son of God.
6. Prophecy concerning Saul immediately begins to take place – persecution, vv 23-
26, 29.
7. Barnabas comes to the rescue, and introduces Saul to the apostles.

An interesting note is that Barnabas and Saul went to Antioch and were there teaching for
about one year, and it was here the disciples were first called Christians.

8
GIBI Course- Missions

Chapter 13 of Acts: The Missionary Convention at Antioch

Vs. 1 – in the church at Antioch – were prophets and teachers.
Vs. 2 – they ministered unto the Lord (How else but through praise).
Vs. 2 – they fasted – “humiliation” of the flesh.
Vs. 2 – the Holy Spirit said, “Separate me Barnabas and Saul for the work whereunto I
have called them.” Confirmation came through the word of prophecy giving general
knowledge to what the disciples, Barnabas and Saul already knew.

Separate: to set off by boundary, i.e., (fig.) limit, exclude, appoint.

Work: toil; but also implies the performance of acts. Does this suggest the possibility of
the signs of an apostle?

Vs. 3 – they (the church at Antioch) fasted and prayed. Why did the church fast and pray
after the Holy Spirit had already spoken the Mind of God? Because they wanted to know
the timing of the Lord as to when they should be sent forth.
Vs. 3 – they (the church) laid hands on them (Barnabas and Saul) and sent them away.
This was the ordination ceremony of the early church. Ordination is public recognition
of a calling already implanted by the Lord.
Vs. 4 – “Sent forth by the Holy Spirit, they departed…” A two-fold sending, i.e., the
church and the Holy Spirit; it’s good to have both. There have been times when a person
went with only one sanction resting upon them.

9
GIBI Course- Missions

Lesson 5
First Missionary Journey
Where and what?
From Antioch to Seleucia then to the Island of Cyprus and the cities of Salamis and
Paphos.

Salamis – preached the Word of God in the synagogues of the Jews. John Mark was also
with them.
Paphos – a certain sorcerer, a false prophet, a Jew, whose name was Bar-jesus (Elymas),
with the deputy of the country.
Sergius Paulus – he desired to hear the Word of God – he was prudent (one who
exercises sound judgement in practical matters).

Elymas sought to turn Sergius Paulus away from the truth of the faith. Saul (also called
Paul) – filled with the Holy Spirit, rebuked him, prophesied over him and moved in
apostolic ministry by commanding blindness to come upon him. The gift of miracles also
played a part in this episode. The deputy when he saw, he believed. He was astonished
at the “doctrine of the Lord.” What is “the doctrine of the Lord?” Most people would
think that it was something that Paul had said. Rather, it was something that Paul did that
caused the proconsul to sit up and take notice. Was it not the signs following ministry
that did the work of conversion? Is there something here for us to learn about the work of
missions?

Perga in Pamphylia – John Mark goes back to Jerusalem. For what reason, we are not
certain. At a later date Paul was to say of this young man, “He is profitable for me of the
ministry.” II Timothy 4:11. Is it possible that John Mark felt he was not ready to launch
out in world evangelism without the proper credentials? What credentials? The signs of
the Apostle.

Antioch in Pisidia – they went to the synagogue and were asked to speak. Paul’s
message is recorded in Acts 13:16-41. In vs. 42 we find that the Gentiles wanted the
message on the next Sabbath. Almost the whole city came together to hear the Word of
God. There were some who became envious (envy-discontent and ill-will over another’s
advantages, possessions etc). Paul and Barnabas go to the Gentiles – fulfillment of the
prophetic declaration of Acts 9:15, cp. Isaiah 49:6. Persecution.

Iconium – the disciples were filled with joy, and with the Holy Spirit. Chapter 14 – still
at Iconium they go to the synagogue of the Jews – they speak and multitudes of Jews and
Greeks believed. The unbelieving Jews stirred up the Gentiles. Signs and wonders were
done. Multitude of the city divided. Enemies sought to use them despitefully and to
stone them. They flee for their lives.

10
GIBI Course- Missions

Lystra and Derbe – there they preached the gospel.

Lystra - miracle of a crippled man being healed. The people proclaimed the apostles to
be “gods.” Barnabas they called Jupiter and Paul they called Mercurius because he was
the chief speaker. Then persecution came from Jews of Antioch and Iconium, which
resulted in the stoning of Paul. Barnabas and Paul go to Derbe.

Derbe - they preached and taught many.

Lystra, Iconium, Antioch - they confirmed the souls of the disciples, exhorting them to
continue in the faith. That through much tribulation enters into the kingdom of God.
Ordained elders were placed in every church. They prayed with, fasted and commended
the elders to the Lord. They passed through Pisidia and came to Pamphylia.

Perga - they preached the Word. They went down to Attalia and then sailed to Antioch,
“from when they had been recommended to the grace of God for the work which they
fulfilled.”

Antioch – another missionary convention, but this time those who had been sent by the
Church came to give their report. “They rehearsed all that God had done with them, and
how He had opened the door of faith unto the Gentiles.” It is on this wise that the first
missionary journey ends.

11
GIBI Course- Missions

Lessons 6
Paul’s Strategy and Teaching
St. Paul was a Man of God – God called and ordained by the Church and the Holy Spirit.
He was not an exceptional man, living in an exceptional time, and ministering in
exceptional ways and means, as some would have us to believe. In other words, he was
not a once in a lifetime’s personality and then the mold was thrown away. This is not
taking away from Paul, or his ministry and calling. I am not being disrespectful to Paul,
nor what he was. I am saying that what God accomplished through this vessel in
education, family background, calling or apostleship, God can do through us. He did not
have undue advantage over us. Paul’s ministry was not his alone. The Pauline principle
was carried out by other disciples as well, especially by those who traveled with Paul
from time to time. Paul only had the Old Testament in Greek to guide him. We have the
full revelation of the Word of God. Also, we have teaching aids, which he knew nothing
about. The same illumination and revelation, which governed Paul, is available to us.

Examples:
Proverbs 4:18, “But the path of the just is as a shining light, that shines more and more
unto the perfect day.” This is illumination: a lighting up; supplying light; clarification, or
explanation.

Ephesians 1:17, “That the God of our Lord Jesus Christ, the Father of Glory, may give
unto you the spirit of wisdom and revelation in the knowledge of Him.” This is
revelation: a disclosure of something not previously known, or understood.

What some “missionaries” and Mission Societies have tried to do in the name of the
Pauline example has brought disrepute upon the Christian church, and in some instances
has hindered the National church from being nurtured into a truly New Testament body
of believers. Methods only work when they are energized by the Holy Spirit, and
accomplished in the timing and purposes of God. There are two areas of Paul’s ministry,
which we need to observe. First – what were the cities like in his time? Second – what
was the substance of his preaching and teaching?

First, there are references made regarding going into the provinces rather than the cities,
i.e., “forbidden to preach in Asia.” Acts 16:6-7; he was sent to Macedonia and not to
Philippi, or Thessalonica, Acts 16:9. In other words, Paul looked at the masses of people
as a whole rather than splitting them into small clusters of the populace. Therefore, we
are to look at the country we minister in as the sum total of God’s will and purposes for
evangelism, and not that particular city, or village wherein we reside. Is it God’s will just
to send a sweep of His Spirit to one area, and not to another? Are only certain people,
tribes, or nations to be blessed of God? No!! “For every nation, kindred, tongue and
people shall hear.” Revelations 5:9; 14:6. Paul’s method was to establish “centers of
learning and training.” More importantly they were places of sufficient life and power to
extend the “place of thy tent, and let them stretch forth the curtains of thy habitation;

12
GIBI Course- Missions

spare not, lengthen your cords, and strengthen your stakes; for you shal break forth on the
right hand an on the left; and your seed shall inherit the Gentiles, and make the desolate
cities to be inhabited." Isaiah 54:2-3. It is not sufficient for a church to be established in
a population area, if that church is not teaching its people their responsibility in carrying
the Gospel to others. What are some of the problems in this area?
1. The people themselves might not want to move out of the city.
2. The villagers who come to the city for training may not want to go back to their
villages.

The social and moral conditions of the time were not of such a state as to make the
reception of the Gospel any easier than it is today. Sin is still the major problem, which
confronts those whom God would send forth to spread the Good News – wherever and
whenever. Also, satisfaction with “our own religious ideas.” In our day we have the
rising tide of Nationalism which says, “we will do our own thing and in the context of the
culture with which we are familiar.” If Paul were to walk the streets of America’s cities
he would find at least one thing in common with those of his day. The resurgence of the
occult would be familiar to him as a battleground for the gospel. Demon worship was a
strong influence in his day. At least two things Paul would not observe and they were the
amphitheaters and slavery. In our day we have similar sporting events, which nearly rival
the bloodshed and horror of those indulged in at the games, and we have forms of
slavery, which divide classes of men to upper and lower.

In Paul’s messages to the churches there seems to be a strain of concern which no doubt
was prompted, at least in part, by attitudes, customs and beliefs of the time. To the
church at Corinth, Paul was concerned about allowing gross immorality to be practices
among them seemingly without open rebuke. To the church at Galatia he wrote
concerning their going back under the yoke of custom and law, which only brought
bondage. Although we are supposed to be living in “the age of technology”, are there not
similarities of customs, culture, and beliefs such as Paul faced with success born of the
Holy Spirit? Can’t we expect this same unction of the Spirit of God to accomplish
through us this same measure of success?

What about Paul’s teaching and preaching? In the book of Acts there are three examples
of Paul’s exhortations: In Antioch of Pisidia, Acts 13:16-41; the speech at Lystra, 14:15-
17; and the discourse at Athens, 17:22-31. There are several instances where mention is
made concerning Paul’s teachings either by him, or through the speech or others. They
are all in agreement concerning the salvation of man through Jesus Christ, and the life
that is in Him through the obedience of faith. One thing we must take under
consideration is that the general theme remains the same, but we vary the presentation to
identify with the people and culture we are trying to reach. Let’s look at Paul’s teaching
at Thessolonica:

The church was established in God the Father and the Lord Jesus Christ (1:1); the elect of
God (1:4); gospel was not so many words, but power and the Holy Spirit (1:5); true and
the living God (1:9); idolatry (1:9); resurrection and rapture (1:10); they should walk as
being worthy before God (2:12); they received the word, not as words of men, but of God

13
GIBI Course- Missions

(2:13); they were his glory and joy (2:20); appointed unto afflictions (3:3); to increase
and abound in love one to another (3:12); to walk in holiness before God (3:13); called of
God unto holiness (4:7); coming of the Lord (4:13-18); also (5:1-11); exhortation to
practical Christianity (5:12-22); revelation of the trinity of man (5:23); benediction (5:25-
28).

Paul was all things to all men that he might by some means win those he was preaching
to.

14
GIBI Course- Missions

Lesson 7
The Second Apostolic Mission
The scriptures appear to indicate that Paul and Barnabas ended their first journey when
they appeared before the church at Antioch and rehearsed what God had been doing (Acts
14:27-28). They were in Antioch until some “false teachers” came into town to spread
dissension in the church. Paul and Barnabas were then sent to Jerusalem to settle the
matter. Some believe that this is still part of that First Journey. I would not dispute it
with them, although it would seem to be a special assignment from the church at Antioch
to the “headquarters” church at Jerusalem, and on the way the Apostles visited the
brethren and churches on the way, reporting what God had been doing among the
Gentiles. (Acts 15:1-35). In vv. 36-38 of the 15th chapter of Acts, a dispute arises
between the fellow travelers, Paul and Barnabas, over John Mark. Barnabas takes his
cousin, and Paul chooses Silas (cp. 15:22-27, and 32-34).

Beginning of Second Missionary journey of Paul

Paul and Silas recommended to the Grace of the Lord Jesus Christ, v. 40. They go
through Syria and Cilicia confirming the churches, v. 41.

Chapter 16
Derbe and Lystra: a young man, Timothy, of mixed Jew-Gentile blood, was in Lystra and
Paul would have him go with them. Paul bows to the pressure of custom and Timothy is
circumcised, cp. with Acts 15:1-2. They also delivered the decree of the Council at
Jerusalem. So the churches were established in the faith, and increased in number daily,
Acts 16:4-5.

Regions of Phrygia and Galatia: forbidden of the Holy Spirit to preach there at the time.

Region of Mysia: sought to go into the region of Bithynia, but again the Spirit suffered
them not to go.

Troas: Paul’s vision in the night. His Macedonian calling brings immediate response as
they set sail for that country. They journey through Samothracia and then land at
Neapolis. They travel by land to Philippi.

Philippi: on the Sabbath, Lydia, a seller of purple, was converted and baptized, along
with her house. A demon-possessed girl followed the Apostle several days until finally
Paul turned and rebuked her. Persecution arises because the source of gain had been lost.
The accusation was “these men teach customs which are not lawful for us to receive, nor
to observe.” They were beaten with “many stripes” and cast into prison. They praised
and sang and the jailer was converted through the testimony and actions of the Apostles.

15
GIBI Course- Missions

Cities of Amphipolis and Apollonia: passed by the Apostles as far as ministry was
concerned. I wonder what they thought and felt as they journeyed through the cities, but
did not stop. Why?

Thessalonica: three days preaching and reasoning with the Jews in the synagogue.
Persecution from jealous Jews. Disciples send them to Berea.

Berea: more noble than the Thessalonians in that they received the Word of God with all
readiness of mind and searched the scriptures to see if these things were so, which were
being taught. The Thessalonians came to Berea and stir the people. Paul is taken to
Athens.

Athens: sees idolatry and his spirit is stirred within him, so he therefore disputed with the
Jews in the synagogue; with the devout persons, and in the marketplace daily with those
who would listen. The Epicureans and Stoics bring him to the Areopagus to question his
doctrine. “Epicureans” of the school that taught the goal of man as being a life of calm
pleasure regulated by morality, temperance, serenity, and cultural development. “Stoics”
holds that all things, properties, relations, etc. are governed by unvarying natural laws,
and that the wise man should follow virtue alone, obtained through reason, remaining
indifferent to the external world and to passion or emotion. Paul’s sermon on Mars Hill
17:22-31. From Athens he goes to Corinth.

Corinth: stayed with Aquila and his wife Priscilla. He worked with them because they
had the same trade of being tent makers. He taught on the Sabbaths. It was here that
Paul shakes the dust of his feet off against the Jews and goes to the Gentiles. A night
vision comes to Paul vv. 9-10. He stays in Corinth for 18 months. He then sails to Syria.
Stops at Ephesus and leaves Aguila and Priscilla. He goes to the synagogue and reasons
with the Jews. Asked to stay, he states he must get to Jerusalem for the feast.

Caesarea: he salutes the church, and then heads for Antioch.

Antioch: spends some time here and then goes to the regions of Phrygia and Galatia
strengthening all the disciples, thus beginning the third missionary journey.

16
GIBI Course- Missions

Lesson 8
Paul’s Third Missionary Journey
The second journey appears to end with Acts 18:22. The third jaunt begins at v. 23
where the Word of God states; “he departed, and went over all the country of Galatia and
Phrygia in order, strengthening all the disciples.”

Ephesus: certain disciples were filled with the Holy Spirit through the laying on of the
hands of Paul, evidenced by the speaking in tongues and prophesying. All the men were
about twelve. Spoke in the synagogue with boldness for the space of about three months.
Persecution arose so he divided the disciples and began to teach in the school of
Tyrannus for the space of about two years so that all who dwelt in Asia, both Jew and
Greek, heard the Word of God. Miracles were wrought through the hands of Paul to the
extent that aprons or handkerchiefs were sent from the body of Paul and the diseases
departed from them, and the evil spirits went out of them. Seven sons of one Sceva tried
to exorcise demons and regretted it, because they came in the name of Jesus, whom Paul
preached. Fear fell on the people to the extent that curios, arts and books were burned.
The cost of these items was over $9,000. The Word of God grew and prevailed. He
sends Timothy and Erastus to Macedonia. A tumult arises over Diana, the goddess of the
Ephesians. Paul departs for Macedonia.

Macedonia region: Paul goes through the region and gives much exhortation. He then
goes to Greece.

Greece: he abides three months and then the Jews seek to lay wait for him. He is about to
set sail for Syria, but changes his mind and heads back through Macedonia taking several
of the brethren with him. Luke waits for him at Troas.

Troas: Luke and others meet Paul and his company. Luke and company sail from
Philippi. Paul and company travel on foot from Greece. Paul becomes long winded and
one of the number falls out of the window. Eutychus dies, but Paul restores him. Paul
walks down to Assos, while the others sail from Troas to Assos. They pick up Paul and
sail from Assos to Mitylene to Chios to Samoa to Trogyllium to Miletus.

Miletus: calls for the elders of the church at Ephesus. Rehearses his ministry and
message to them. Speaks of going bound in his spirit to Jerusalem and confirmation from
every city through the Holy Spirit that bound and afflictions await him there. He tells
them they will see his face no more, and that their blood is free from his hands, because
he has not been slack in declaring the whole counsel of God to them. He commends
them to God. They accompany him to the ship in a tearful farewell. They sail unto Coos
then to Rhodes to Patara to Cyprus to Syria and the city of Tyre.

17
GIBI Course- Missions

Tyre: tarried there seven days and certain of the disciples said through the Holy Spirit not
to go to Jerusalem. He then sails to Ptolemais and saluted the brethren there. Then sailed
to Caesarea.

Caesarea: stayed with Philip the evangelist, who had four daughters who were
prophetesses. Agabus, the prophet, comes to give a message to Paul. They then go to
Jerusalem. Here it appears the third journey ends. Soon Paul would be bound and
ultimately be taken to Rome where he died a martyr’s death.

18
GIBI Course- Missions

Lesson 9
Finances and Discipline (Paul’s method of handling both)
It doesn’t really matter how you, as a missionary, are financed; who is the sending
agency, or how you handle what finances you, or your church, might receive. What is
important is how all of these areas affect those whom you are trying to reach with the
message of the Gospel. Your attitudes, and mismanagement, in the financial realm can
either persuade or hinder people from accepting you and your message. Some “do-
gooders” have gone with a padded wallet or budget, and literally bought their way on the
mission field. Therefore, others have had to reap (rather I should say pick up) the pieces
of an unfruitful ministry. There are three rules, which seem to have governed Paul’s
concept of dealing with finances. They are:
1. He did not seek financial help for himself.
2. He did not take financial help to those to whom he ministered.
3. He did not seek to administer local church funds.

In Paul’s day, there were charlatans who wandered from town to town-collecting money
for the lectures they gave. There was also a large class of people who wandered about
giving exhibitions and then collecting money from those who attended. For these people,
religion and philosophical thought were a trade to be bargained for. Paul had not the
slightest wish to be identified with them.

There were some rare occasions when he did receive gifts from his converts, i.e., the
Philippians ministered to his necessities on various opportunities. He also told the church
at Corinth that he had robbed other churches in order to meet their needs (Phil. 4:16; II
Cor. 11:8). He talked in Galatians 6:6 about communicating to the needs of those who
teach in the Word, and in Philippians 4:12, Paul talks about knowing how to be “full or
hungry, to abound and to suffer need.” There had to be some monies at his disposal to
cover the costs of his trials, and extensive travels in his later ministry. He was not a
recluse, nor did he take a “vow of poverty.” He just was concerned that no monies be
given by those he was ministering to at the present time, lest they feel he was only with
them to receive from their hand. This can also work both ways. One of the greatest
criticisms of “foreign” preachers coming to a missions field is that these foreigners come
and take a lot of pictures (often of the seamy side of the culture) and then exploit the
country when they get back to the United States in order to line the pocketbooks of self-
interest. Paul taught the churches to be self-supporting. We need to keep a proper
perspective between why we are on the field and what we are doing about giving a clear
picture of our work to those Nationals and to those at home. By teaching the local
convert the value of tithing and showing him, by our example, a life of faith, he shall start
believing God.

Disciplines
This was a matter that Paul left in the hands of the local body. His general principle was,
“As the Lord has distributed to every man, as God has called each of us, so let us walk in

19
GIBI Course- Missions

that light.” These were his words regarding the divorce and remarriage struggle that has
dominated the Christian church, and also these words were a covering of wisdom in other
areas as well.

Paul dealt with immorality in the Corinth church mainly because they would not remove
the sin themselves, I Corinthians 5:2. In this matter he still stresses the fact that he is not
taking the ‘lordship over your faith, but are helpers of your joy: for by faith you stand.” II
Corinthians 1:24. Paul leaned heavily on the ability of the Holy Spirit to instruct his
converts in the ways of the Lord in matters of conduct. Paul taught a freedom from sin,
and a life sanctified from entanglements of fleshly desire. Nevertheless, Paul did not
legalize his words to his converts. He rather left them to the instruction of those whom
he had set over the churches, or those that Timothy and Titus had placed as Elders. Paul
also wrote letters to the churches that were weighty in his philosophies, and he reminded
them on occasion that he had the mind of the Holy Spirit. At other times he said that the
church had no such customs. One of the marks of an Apostle was that they could
exercise authority in matters of discipline. Paul showed the churches the way of
discipline, but left the actual act of discipline to that local Body of Believers. He used his
authority as a last measure to those who refused to heed the admonition and “put the
house in order.”

20