As soon as you start to think about going on a mission trip, the next thought on your mind would be what types of Missionary work you can consider doing. Back in the days, you must say goodbye to your friends and family and say it well because the likelihood of your return was really slim in those days. Though this is still the same, it’s a bit easier to return home after mission trips in this day and age.
The world has become more educated and the work of missionary organizations make missionary work a bit more safe and thereby more interesting for missionaries. These organizations will keep you safe and fight for you in dangerous situations. Read this for options of organizations to work with.
What Types of Missionary Work Should I consider?
In this phase, it’s important to pay close attention to your commanding officer-God. Where does God want you to serve? locally or internationally and in what ways are you supposed to contribute?
The truth is that everywhere you turn, there is mission work to be done there. Missionary work exists in your own neighborhood, country or anywhere around the world. And everywhere you turn there are different ways you can serve as a missionary.
When asking the question where do I fit in, the question what types of missionary work is available will help guide you. The world is filled with all types of people, with all types of problems and spiritual needs. How you choose to meet their needs is dependent on what God has put in your hands;
- your God-given talent
- acquired skills
- intellect
- experiences
- the uniqueness of your personality
- intellect
- your connections
- your work schedule
- what you value
All these and more will help you determine what types of missionary work would actually fit you. These factors will also differentiate you from another missionary. For example, if you are a sales person and are a good listener, you will likely love to go talk to people about God. Some of your talents will determine how effective you will be in mission and evangelism. However, the most important ingredient you need in choosing from the types of missionary work to pursue is a relationship with the Holy Spirit, one which is constantly growing.
Some Types of Missionary Work (ways you can serve as a missionary) include:
Local-Based Missionaries
This category of missionaries stay within their country and reach the unreached in whatever way possible. They can be pastors, church workers, politicians, lawyers, doctors, one who runs a non-profit organization etc. Their aim is usually to use whatever position they are into disciple people for Christ. You can be a part of this category depending on if the Lord is impressing it in your heart.
International Missionaries
These are the most commonly thought of the type of missionaries when someone hears the word “missionary.” They are usually sent out to other countries and start to live life there, to evangelize and help people in need. They are usually sent by a particular nonprofit group or religious organization, which helps to raise support and prayer for the missionary’s efforts. Short-term missions typically last for a few months, Similar to student missions, there are a variety of ministry service opportunities available to the short-term missionaries, and many include additional responsibilities for more mature individuals.
Career Missionary
Believers in this category are called by God to reach an unreached people group, get acquainted with their culture, learn their heart language, and communicate with them in a manner that shares the love of Christ. You will develop Bible studies and ministry materials that will reach and disciple these people. Your responsibility will be to properly groom the Baby-Christians, bringing them to a point where they can stand, firmly rooted in God’s Word and then join the mission army. This process will take several years to accomplish, but it will definitely be worth it. You can also extend it to taking the new disciples and those who are yet to believe on skills acquisition classes and other helpful teachings.
Student Missionary
You can serve the Lord even while in school. The best part of education is knowing that you are a part of something great; serve on the frontiers and introduce souls to Jesus. Typical ministry opportunities include outreach/evangelism activities, basic medical work, homeschooling of missionary children, agricultural, church planting or other development activities, teaching, mechanical and construction work etc.
Explorer/Tourist Missions
For those of us who are very adventurous and love to travel, doing the work of the Lod, reaching the unreached is an amazing way to make your trip worthwhile. You want to explore the world, not for adventure, but to find unbelievers and introduce them to the Savior.
Evangelistic Missionaries
These missionaries convert people to Christ. The focus of their work is to preach and teach in areas where people may have never heard their religious messages before. Many evangelistic missionaries go door to door, hold crusades, online group meetings and organize public demonstrations. Some take to using the social media as a tool to push the gospel of God to the unreached.
Need-Based Missionaries
Need-based missionaries focus mainly on helping people in their area. While evangelism is a part of their service, meeting the needs of the people is their primary goal. These missionaries start orphanages, health centers, build churches and community centers, distribute medical supplies and help provide food and water for people in need etc.
Whichever way you choose, be sure to do it excellently and to the Glory of God. You are doing this as a service to God through man.