The concept of Divine Purpose and Mission is central to the understanding of God's plan for humanity and the individual believer's role within that plan. This entry explores the biblical foundation of divine purpose and mission, highlighting key scriptural references and theological insights.

Divine Purpose

The divine purpose refers to God's overarching plan for creation and His intentions for humanity. Scripture reveals that God's purpose is rooted in His sovereign will and is ultimately aimed at His glory and the redemption of mankind. In Ephesians 1:11, the Apostle Paul writes, "In Him we were also chosen as God’s own, having been predestined according to the plan of Him who works out everything by the counsel of His will." This verse underscores the belief that God's purpose is intentional and meticulously orchestrated.

The Old Testament provides numerous examples of God's purpose in action. In the account of Joseph, for instance, what his brothers intended for harm, God used for good, to accomplish His purpose of saving many lives (Genesis 50:20). Similarly, the calling of Israel as a chosen nation was part of God's purpose to reveal Himself to the world and to prepare the way for the coming of the Messiah.

Mission

The mission aspect of divine purpose involves the specific tasks and callings that God assigns to individuals and the church as a whole. The Great Commission, as recorded in Matthew 28:19-20, is a foundational text for understanding the mission of believers: "Therefore go and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Spirit, and teaching them to obey all that I have commanded you." This command from Jesus encapsulates the mission of spreading the Gospel and making disciples.

The mission is not limited to evangelism but includes living out the values of the Kingdom of God. Micah 6:8 provides a succinct summary of this mission: "He has shown you, O man, what is good. And what does the LORD require of you but to act justly, to love mercy, and to walk humbly with your God?" Believers are called to embody justice, mercy, and humility as part of their divine mission.

Individual and Corporate Mission

While the church collectively shares in the mission of God, individuals are also called to specific roles and tasks. The Apostle Paul frequently speaks of his own mission, as seen in Acts 20:24: "But I consider my life of no value to me, if only I may finish my course and complete the ministry I have received from the Lord Jesus—the ministry of testifying to the good news of God’s grace." Each believer is encouraged to discern their unique calling and to pursue it with diligence and faithfulness.

The church, as the body of Christ, is tasked with the mission of being a light to the world (Matthew 5:14-16). This corporate mission involves worship, teaching, fellowship, and service, all aimed at glorifying God and advancing His kingdom on earth.

Eternal Perspective

The divine purpose and mission are not confined to temporal realities but have an eternal dimension. In Romans 8:28-30, Paul speaks of God's purpose in terms of predestination, calling, justification, and glorification, indicating that God's plan extends beyond this life into eternity. Believers are assured that their labor in the Lord is not in vain (1 Corinthians 15:58), as it contributes to the eternal purposes of God.

In summary, the divine purpose and mission encompass God's sovereign plan for creation, the specific callings of individuals and the church, and the eternal implications of living in accordance with God's will. Through Scripture, believers are invited to participate in this divine narrative, fulfilling their roles in the unfolding account of redemption.