The Mission of the Church

Why a Church?

“Go ye therefore, and teach all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Ghost: Teaching them to observe all things whatsoever I have commanded you: and, lo, I am with you alway, even unto the end of the world. Amen.” (Matthew 28:19–20)

I often hear questions about the mission and vision of Journey Church. These are natural, valid inquiries, and I’m grateful for those who want to know what drives us forward. While I do plan to share a more detailed mission statement the coming weeks, I want to begin by opening my heart regarding the larger purpose of the Church according to God’s Word.

You see, my conviction is that the local church does not invent its own mission—Jesus Christ already has one, and we are simply called to fulfill it. That’s why I believe our primary goal must always reflect His highest priority: reaching the lost with the Gospel (Mark 16:15; Luke 19:10). This is not just another program or a catchy slogan; it’s the heartbeat of God.

Beyond that, we are also commissioned to disciple those who come to faith (Matthew 28:19–20), cultivating their relationship with the Holy Spirit, and guiding them toward spiritual maturity. The Church is meant to be a place of growth—both in spirit and soul—where believers are strengthened in God’s Word and empowered by the Holy Ghost (Acts 2:4; 1 Corinthians 12–14).

At our core, we recognize that we exist to bring light to a dark world. Jesus said we are “the light of the world—a city set on a hill” (Matthew 5:14–16). This means we’re called to make a positive impact on our community and beyond. We also believe in teaching people how to live godly lives and experience the abundant life Christ promised (John 10:10).

Benevolence, outreach, building relationships, praying for one another, worshiping together, and pooling our resources for a greater Kingdom impact—these are all vital expressions of a healthy local assembly. Furthermore, God has ordained the local church to facilitate the fivefold ministry gifts for “the perfecting of the saints” (Ephesians 4:11–12), ensuring that every believer is equipped to serve God’s purposes.

Moreover, our church should be a place of healing, restoration, and deliverance—a house of prayer and worship, where people experience the glory, manifest presence, and power of God. We believe in raising up the next generation by investing in children and youth, teaching them to stand firm in their faith and boldly represent Christ in every sphere of life. Additionally, we desire to influence government and business leaders through consistent prayer (1 Timothy 2:1–2) and godly engagement, shining the light of Christ in every domain of society, so that our community and nation can flourish under the wisdom and righteousness of God’s Kingdom.

God’s highest priority is indeed the salvation of the lost, and everything else we do ultimately supports that end. Once people are saved, they must be discipled, brought from darkness into God’s marvelous light, and taught to grow in grace and faith. If we desire a larger church or expanded resources, it should be to further Christ’s mission—never our own. We want to remain faithful, knowing God increases what is faithfully used for His Kingdom, and removes what is not (1 Corinthians 3:6–7).

Let it never be said that Journey Church was more concerned with building our own kingdom than with building the Kingdom of Almighty God. If we drift from our first love of soul-winning and disciple-making, Scripture warns us to repent and return to what truly matters (Revelation 2:4–5). We must keep our hearts aligned with Jesus’ instruction to “seek first the Kingdom of God” (Matthew 6:33), remembering that every aspect of our lives—family, finances, relationships, and yes, even church—must be fully surrendered to Him (Exodus 20:3; Luke 14:26–27).

Over the next few weeks, we’ll look at the broader purpose of the Church and also define the unique part Journey Church is called to play. Our vision and mission are inseparable from Christ’s overarching command: to preach the Gospel, make disciples, and shine His light in a hurting world. God has entrusted this local body with a special role, yet it’s always part of something far greater than ourselves. We’re a part of His global Church, united in our mission to bring salvation to every corner of the earth (2 Peter 3:9).

My prayer is that by understanding how our local assignment connects to God’s grand purpose, we will be energized and equipped to serve wholeheartedly—both here in our community and beyond. When we unify around the mission of evangelizing the lost, discipling believers, and sending them out to continue the cycle, we become a powerful instrument in God’s hands. The early Church modeled this beautifully, gathering together for teaching, fellowship, and prayer, and then going out to change the world (Acts 2:42–47; Romans 12:4–5; Ephesians 4:16).

I love you all and pray for you daily. My heart’s desire is that we fulfill every good work God has assigned to us, bearing much fruit for His glory. Let us journey together, staying faithful to the mission of Jesus Christ, and trust Him to do exceedingly abundantly above all we ask or think.

(Matthew 28:19–20, Mark 16:15, Luke 19:10, John 10:10, Matthew 5:14–16, Matthew 6:33, Exodus 20:3, Luke 14:26–27, 2 Peter 3:9, 1 Corinthians 3:6–7, Revelation 2:4–5, Ephesians 4:11–12, Acts 2:42–47, Romans 12:4–5, Ephesians 4:16)

Blessings
Pastor Garrick
(Edited 2/8/25)