The Church on a Mission Day 3
Day 3: The Power of Dependence
The church in Antioch set a powerful precedent as the first congregation to intentionally send missionaries. Their effectiveness stemmed from three key priorities: being grounded in God's Word, maintaining God-centered worship, and demonstrating dependence through prayer and fasting. These foundations enabled them to understand God's character, align with His purposes, and trust His direction. Their willingness to send their best leaders sparked a movement that transformed the ancient world and continues to influence global missions today.
Watch Sermon HERE.
Devotional
In our self-sufficient world, depending on God through prayer and fasting might seem counterintuitive. Yet, these spiritual disciplines aren't just religious routines - they're expressions of our desperate need for God's guidance and power. The Antioch church understood this deeply. Their decisions and actions weren't based on human wisdom but on seeking God's direction through prayer and fasting. When we acknowledge our dependence on God, we position ourselves to receive His wisdom and power for the mission He's called us to fulfill.
"Now to him who is able to do far more abundantly than all that we ask or think, according to the power at work within us, to him be glory in the church and in Christ Jesus throughout all generations, forever and ever. Amen." - Ephesians 3:20-21
Reflection Question
In what areas of your life do you need to move from self-reliance to God-dependence?
The reason these [prayer and fasting]
are so important for a sending church is because
it expresses our dependence on God.
— Pastor Mike Mura
Prayer
God, teach me to depend on You completely. Help me to seek Your guidance through prayer and fasting, trusting in Your power rather than my own abilities. Amen.