The Apostle Paul is undoubtedly the greatest missionary that ever lived. In his ministry, we find the pattern of what a missionary really is. His writings as well as his practices in the first century of Christianity reveal the model which modern missionaries ought to follow.

Acts 14:21-23 is the outline of Paul’s typical ministry among the people to whom he ministered. The passage reads, “And when they had preached the gospel to that city, and had taught many, they returned again to Lystra, and to Iconium, and Antioch, confirming the souls of the disciples, and exhorting them to continue in the faith, and that we must through much tribulation enter into the kingdom of God. And when they had ordained them elders in every church, and had prayed with fasting, they commended them to the Lord, on whom they believed.”

From this passage, we find Paul’s method of ministry. First, we find that he preached the gospel to the lost. A missionary then is one who preaches the good news of salvation to those who are lost and on their way to a Christless eternity in Hell. Second, we find that Paul teaches the word of God to these new converts. He taught them and encouraged them to continue in their newfound faith. Lastly, we find that Paul ordained elders or pastors. As the number of new converts grew, Paul would then establish new churches and ordain pastors to lead these local assemblies.

North Valley Baptist Church is blessed to support missionaries all over the world who practice Paul’s method of missions. Our missionaries are faithful in preaching the gospel, perfecting the saints through sound Biblical teaching, and planting local churches. There have been literally hundreds of thousands of souls saved through the ministries of our missionaries. These converts are also being taught the Word of God and growing in grace. In addition, many of these converts have gone on to start local New Testament churches.

Tom Apusen is an Assistant Pastor at North Valley Baptist Church. He is the pastor of the Filipino Department, and he heads up the missions, security, and transportation ministries.
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