Overview
A missional approach to reading the Bible transcends mere textual analysis, inviting believers to participate in the grand narrative of God’s redemptive work throughout history. It sees the Scriptures not as isolated pieces of ancient literature but as a unified story of God’s mission to redeem and restore creation. Every verse, every parable, every prophecy is a thread woven into the divine tapestry of salvation history, calling readers to engage actively in God’s ongoing mission in the world. This approach recognizes the Bible as a living document that speaks into the mission field of our lives today, urging believers to embody and proclaim “the glorious deeds of the Lord, and his might, and the wonders that he has done” (Psalm 78:4). The following reasons outline why Christians should embrace this missional lens when engaging with Scripture:
1. We are Part of God’s Redemptive Storytelling
A missional approach emphasizes the Bible as a narrative of God’s relentless pursuit to redeem humanity. From Genesis to Revelation, Scripture unfolds as a story of God reaching out to restore His creation. Recognizing this redemptive storytelling helps believers see their place within God’s mission. By understanding the Bible as a unified narrative of salvation, Christians are better equipped to share this story with others, embodying the mission of God in their daily lives. The Psalmist’s call to “tell the next generation the praiseworthy deeds of the Lord, his power, and the wonders he has done” (Psalm 78:4) reminds us that we are part of this unfolding story, tasked with passing it on.
2. We are Both Missional Recipients and Ambassadors
Understanding the Bible missionally helps believers grasp their identity as active participants in God’s mission. Romans 8:16 declares, “The Spirit himself bears witness with our spirit that we are children of God.” This missional identity roots believers in the reality that they are not merely recipients of salvation but also ambassadors of God’s reconciling work in the world. When Christians read the Bible through this lens, they are reminded of their divine calling to be witnesses to the ends of the earth, living out the implications of their identity as children of God on mission.
3. We Reflect God’s Mission in our Relationships
A missional reading of Scripture underscores the importance of relational evangelism—sharing the Gospel through genuine relationships. 1 Peter 3:15 exhorts believers to “always be prepared to make a defense to anyone who asks you for a reason for the hope that is in you.” This approach equips Christians to engage in conversations that are not just doctrinal but personal and relational, drawing others into the story of God’s love. By seeing the Bible as a guide for relational engagement, believers learn to witness not just through words, but through lives lived in authentic relationship with others, reflecting God’s mission of love and reconciliation.
4. We are Empowered to Embody God’s Justice
Missional interpretation encourages believers to engage prophetically with the world, challenging injustices and proclaiming God’s truth. Isaiah 61:1-2, which speaks of bringing “good news to the poor” and proclaiming “liberty to the captives,” highlights the prophetic dimension of God’s mission. A missional approach to Scripture inspires believers to confront the injustices of their time with the same urgency and clarity found in the prophetic voices of the Bible. By engaging with Scripture missionally, Christians are empowered to speak truth to power and to embody God’s justice in their communities.
5. Our Prayers Should Seek Power for the Mission of God Around Us
A missional approach to Scripture also transforms how believers pray. 1 John 5:14 reminds us that “if we ask anything according to his will, he hears us.” Missional prayer aligns the hearts of believers with God’s redemptive purposes, moving beyond personal petitions to intercession for the world. Reading the Bible missionally encourages Christians to pray with a focus on God’s mission—praying for the unreached, for justice, for wisdom in witness, and for strength to live out the Gospel in challenging contexts. This kind of prayer is not just about asking God to meet our needs, but about seeking His will and power to be manifest in the mission He has called us to.
6. Our Missional Engagement Should Communicate the Gospel Effectively
Contextualization, as demonstrated by Paul in Acts 17:22-23, is crucial for missional engagement. By understanding and respecting cultural contexts, believers can communicate the Gospel in ways that resonate with different audiences. A missional approach to the Bible equips Christians to adapt the message without compromising its truth, ensuring that the Gospel remains relevant and accessible across diverse cultures. Paul’s approach in Athens, where he referenced the local culture to introduce the message of Christ, serves as a model for how believers today can effectively bridge cultural divides in their evangelistic efforts.
7. The Bible is the Record and Product of the Mission of God that Serves as a Guide for Our Life’s Mission
Finally, a missional approach fosters a deep understanding of missional theology, grounding believers in the foundational principles of God’s mission. Key biblical mandates such as the Great Commission (Matthew 28:19-20), the Great Commandment (Matthew 22:37-40), and the Great Mandate (Genesis 1:27-28) shape a comprehensive theological framework that guides believers in their missional endeavors. Understanding these theological pillars helps Christians articulate their faith in ways that are coherent, compelling, and connected to the larger narrative of God’s work in the world. This missional theology not only informs their witness but also empowers them to live out their faith in alignment with God’s purposes.
Conclusion
In conclusion, a missional approach to reading the Bible enriches and deepens the believer’s engagement with Scripture, transforming it from a mere academic exercise into a dynamic participation in God’s redemptive mission. By viewing the Bible as the unfolding story of God’s work in the world, believers are invited to find their place in this story and to live out their identity as participants in God’s mission. This approach equips them for relational evangelism, prophetic engagement, missional prayer, and contextualization, all grounded in a robust missional theology. As they immerse themselves in the Scriptures, Christians are not only informed but also transformed, becoming more effective ambassadors of God’s kingdom in a world desperately in need of His redemptive love.
Dr. Curt Watke is a distinguished missiologist whose three-plus-decade-long career has significantly impacted Christian mission work in North America, particularly in under-reached and challenging regions. Holding a Ph.D. in Evangelism and Missions, Dr. Watke has focused on bridging cultural gaps and fostering sustainable Christian communities by developing innovative strategies that address contemporary challenges like globalization, urbanization, and religious pluralism. His emphasis on cultural sensitivity and contextualization in mission work is reflected in his collaborative writings, including notable works such as “Ministry Context Exploration: Understanding North American Cultures” and “Starting Reproducing Congregations.” Beyond his writing, Dr. Watke is a sought-after speaker and educator, lecturing at seminaries and conferences worldwide, and his teachings continue to inspire and equip new generations of missional leaders. His enduring legacy is marked by unwavering dedication to the mission of God and a profound influence on missional thought and practice. Dr. Watke serves as President and Professor of Evangelism & Missiology at Missional University.
