Mission [is] understood as being derived from the very nature of God. It [is] thus put in the context of the Trinity, not of ecclesiology or soteriology. The classical doctrine of the missio dei as God the Father sending the Son, and God the Father and the Son sending the Spirit [is] expanded to include yet another “movement”: Father, Son, and Holy Spirit sending the church into the world.
Interpretation
The quote highlights the divine nature of the mission, rooted in the Trinity and extending to the church's purpose in the world.
David Bosch emphasizes that the concept of mission is fundamentally linked to the essence of God and the relationships within the Trinity. He expands upon the classical understanding of God the Father sending the Son and Spirit by asserting that this divine sending also encompasses the church's role and responsibility to engage with the world, thereby connecting theological principles with practical action.
In practice
In a sermon discussing the role of the church, this quote can illustrate the mission-driven nature of the congregation.
We have to remind ourselves constantly that we are not saviours. We are simply a tiny sign, among thousands of others, that love is possible, that the world is not condemned to a struggle between oppressors and oppressed, that class and racial warfare is not inevitable.
The game is just one long conversation, and I'm anticipating that, and I will say things like 'Did you know that?' or 'You're probably wondering why.' I'm really just conversing rather than just doing play-by-play. I never thought of myself as having a style. I don't use key words. And the best thing I do? I shut up.
Neither genius, fame, nor love show the greatness of the soul. Only kindness can do that.
What, if some day or night a demon were to steal after you into your loneliest loneliness and say to you: 'This life as you now live it and have lived it, you will have to live once more and innumerable times more' ... Would you not throw yourself down and gnash your teeth and curse the demon who spoke thus? Or have you once experienced a tremendous moment when you would have answered him: 'You are a god and never have I heard anything more divine.
The difference between magic and miracles is this. Magic is when you use your mind to tell the Universe what you want. _x000D_ _x000D_ Miracles is when you ask the Universe what it wants and how you can serve it'
If men are wont to play with swearing anywhere, can we expect they should be serious and strict therein at the bar or in the church.
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