A theology of missions must begin with God, not humans. It must begin with the cosmic history of the creation, the fall, and God's redemption of his creation. It must include God's revelation of himself to humans, the incarnation of Jesus Christ within history, the salvation he achieved through his death and resurrection, and the ultimate lordship of Christ over all creation. The history of humankind is first and foremost the story of God's mission to redeem sinners who seek his salvation, the story of Jesus who came as a missionary, and the story of God's Spirit who works in the hearts of those who hear.



It is in this context of God's activity within this world and throughout history that we must understand our task. The mission is ultimately God's, and we are but part of that mission. Our planning and strategizing are useless, even destructive, if they keep us from seeking first the guidance and empowerment of God himself.

 Paul Hiebert, Anthropological Insights for Missionaries