Not a side work, optional, or elective

Austin Gardner • September 27, 2022

Nothing is spontaneous in Christianity

I agree whole heatedly with our brother and encourage you to read his book. George W. Peters wrote in his book "A Biblical Theology of Missions" (Chicago, IL: Moody Press, 1972), 349 the following:


Missions is inherent in the very nature of Christianity and is a true product of our personal faith in proper relationship to a Spirit-enlightened understanding of biblical Christianity. Such a statement does not mean that missions need not be taught and nurtured in the Christian church or that it grows spontaneously or automatically.


Nothing is spontaneous in Christianity. All must be cultivated and nurtured. But it does mean that when the whole counsel of God is taught, believed and obeyed, missions will cease to be considered a side work or something we may engage in or not.


It will cease to be optional and “elective.” It will not be merely a work of the church, beneficial and praiseworthy; it will be the work of the church, absolutely essential to the church to retain her Christian character and purpose. It will become primary and dominant in the purpose and activity of the church, with all powers geared toward accomplishing the task.


By Austin Gardner February 24, 2026
Biblical clarity for ministry leaders. Learn why internal alignment matters more than external success. 50+ years of ministry wisdom from Austin Gardner.
By Austin Gardner February 23, 2026
Elisha asked for a double portion of Elijah's spirit—but why? W. Austin Gardner explores the tension between bold faith and hidden pride in ministry leadership.
By Austin Gardner February 22, 2026
W. Austin Gardner explores the cautionary tale of Jehu in 2 Kings 10:31. Are you obeying with your whole heart, or just your hands? Discover the freedom of full surrender.
By Austin Gardner February 21, 2026
Why did God clear Pharaoh's flies instantly but leave Austin Gardner's? Explore a powerful lesson on trust, leadership humility, and grace from 50 years in ministry.
By Austin Gardner February 21, 2026
W. Austin Gardner reflects on the weight of leadership legacy and 1 Kings 22:52. Are your footsteps worth following? A biblical look at influence, character, and the power of example.
By Austin Gardner February 20, 2026
After 50+ years of ministry, W. Austin Gardner shares his shift from a culture of performance to a life of resting in grace. Discover the truth about identity in Christ.
By Austin Gardner February 19, 2026
Can everything change in a single day? W. Austin Gardner explores Joseph’s sudden restoration in Genesis 41:14 and why God’s timing is worth the wait.
By Austin Gardner February 18, 2026
Can you choose to forget the pain of the past? W. Austin Gardner explores Genesis 41:51 and Joseph’s decision to move from a place of wounding to a place of fruitfulness.
By Austin Gardner February 17, 2026
What happens when the past resurfaces? W. Austin Gardner explores Genesis 42, showing why character is built in the light and how to face old shadows with grace.
By Austin Gardner February 16, 2026
Stop the performance. W. Austin Gardner explores the high cost of pretending in ministry and how the "Big Leap of Faith" leads to true spiritual rest.