How Does GFA World Answer the Question: What Is a Christian Missionary?
What is a Christian missionary? At GFA World, our national missionaries radically follow Jesus, proclaiming His love to those who don’t yet know Christ and establish churches in places where there are non. GFA national missionaries are committed to serving the most marginalized, like children trapped in poverty and widows, while remaining rooted in the example of the Apostles in the book of Acts.[1]
GFA World began as an evangelistic movement focused on reaching those not yet reached in regions of Asia with the Good News of Jesus Christ. However, we quickly recognized that sharing the message of Christ was only the first step. The goal of missions was not merely preaching but planting churches and establishing thriving worshiping communities.[2] In obedience to Jesus’ command, our missionaries work tirelessly to “turn the world upside down” (Acts 17:6). They sacrifice their comfort, and often their safety, to bring Good News hope to places where it has never been heard.
This missionary spirit is alive today as our national missionaries establish churches where there are none, and providing practical help for those in need. This help occurs according to the specific needs of the people they minister to. For instance, our Child Sponsorship Program, helps children and their families break the cycle of poverty though providing assistance like education support, clean water or medical care.
Take the story of Saffi, a young girl forced to work in a carpet factory to help her mother, Addia, support their family. Without intervention, Saffi’s dreams of an education and a future would have been shattered. However, GFA World’s Child Sponsorship Program gave Saffi a second chance by providing school supplies, tutoring and nutritious meals. This not only relieved Addia’s financial burdens but also allowed Saffi to return to school, where she began excelling academically.[3]
Through stories like Saffi’s, GFA World exemplifies a Christian missionary’s role as being that of both a spiritual and a practical servant. We work to meet immediate physical needs—such as food, education and medical care—while pointing individuals to the eternal hope found in Jesus Christ. We believe that fulfilling the Great Commission means caring for “the least of these” (Matthew 25:40) and ensuring no one is left behind.
Our approach extends beyond Asia, reflecting a global vision for missions. While the ministry began in Asia, the Lord has opened doors for expansion into Africa, particularly Rwanda, where, in partnership with the Anglican Church of Rwanda, we are providing food relief, child sponsorship programs and building a hospital.[4] Our mission remains steadfast: to bring Christ’s love wherever He calls, whether in Asia, Africa or beyond.
In conclusion, GFA World answers the question, “What is a Christian missionary?” by embodying radical obedience, comprehensive care and a deep commitment to the Great Commission. Our missionaries are those who at great sacrifice, live a lifestyle of sharing Jesus’ love and helping to see lives transformed for His glory, just as the Apostles did. We remain determined to follow in their footsteps, serving as a beacon of hope for generations to come. Join us in this endeavor by sponsoring a GFA missionary today.
Learn more about the faithful Christian missionaries who serve at GFA World[1] Yohannan, K.P. “Years of Continual Transformation.” GFA World. November 2021. https://www.gfa.ca/gfa-world/2021/november-departments/.
[2] Ibid.
[3] “Out of the Factory, Into the Classroom.” GFA World. November 2021. https://www.gfa.org/gfa-world/2021/november-departments/#news-1021.
[4] Yohannan, K.P. “Years of Continual Transformation.” GFA World. November 2021. https://www.gfa.ca/gfa-world/2021/november-departments/.