We hear it often, whether at the vicar factory, in mission books, or from our leaders: Missio Dei—the mission of God. This phrase emphasises that mission isn’t just the responsibility of the church; it’s God’s work. And the beautiful truth is that we are invited to participate in it! God is actively restoring and reconciling all things, and He calls us to engage in this transformative work. The challenge for us is clear: “Find out where God is moving, and join Him there.”
However, we must be cautious. Sometimes, when we try to discern God’s movement through a middle-class lens, we may overlook the broader picture. It’s easy to notice God at work in familiar, comfortable places—where the risk is low and the people resemble us. Let me illustrate by exaggeration: we might think God’s mission is limited to cosy book clubs or leisurely rounds of golf. And while God truly is present in those spaces, if we focus only on them, we might miss the fullness of His mission.
What if we shifted our focus? Instead of merely asking, “Where is God at work?”, let’s dig deeper and ask, “Where is the evil most evident?” Where are lives being shattered? Where are those created in God’s image suffering from injustice and exclusion? That’s where we need to go! This is where Missio Satanas comes into play: it calls us to identify where evil is most active and respond with the love and compassion of Jesus. We’re invited to engage with the challenges, extending His grace and hope to those in need.
This perspective beautifully aligns with the mission of God revealed through Jesus. He didn’t remain in safe spaces; He went to the broken, stood against injustice, and embraced the marginalised. The Kingdom He embodied is one of radical compassion, actively working to address the hurts and struggles of the world.
What if the church is not a cruise ship meant for the comfort of its passengers, but a rescue ship navigating a world full of hurt and brokenness? We are called to seek out those who are battered by injustice and oppression, bringing them the healing and hope of Christ. In doing so, we embody the mission of God, which counters the mission of evil, proclaiming and living out His compassionate Kingdom until the reconciliation of all things.
- Swales, 2024
This content is part of the 'Missiology for the Margins' teaching session which Jon does as part of the ''Misson, Theology and Ministry for the Margins' course.
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