But you will receive power when the Holy Spirit comes on you; and you will be my witnesses in Jerusalem, and in all Judea and Samaria, and to the ends of the earth. (Acts 1:8)

The study of missions often becomes an investigation in sociology and anthropology, emphasizing cultures and traditions, comparative religion, intercultural and interracial communication, and so on. Although it could be helpful to consider these issues, Jesus’ own theology and method are often ignored, and even opposed. Power is basic to his view on missions. This is the power to speak, the power to act, and the power to perform extraordinary feats. In the biblical record, this power is the equipment even for regular preaching, defense before the authorities, and debates with scholars.

When it comes to the worldwide promotion and establishment of the Christian faith, Jesus places his emphasis on power. Power is basic to the missionary enterprise. Power is necessary for all ministry activities. A theology of missions that does not offer power a supreme position represents a drastically different concept of the Great Commission – what it is and how to do it. It is a theology that disagrees with the one who issued this Commission. If we wish to become faithful missionaries at home and abroad, we must come into agreement with Jesus Christ, and return to an emphasis on power.