Divine mission is a central theme woven throughout Scripture, illustrating God's intentional plan for humanity and creation. From the call of Abraham in Genesis 12:1-3, where God promises to bless all nations through him, to the Great Commission in Matthew 28:19-20, where Jesus commands His disciples to make disciples of all nations, the narrative of divine mission emphasizes God's desire for relationship and redemption. The Apostle Paul encapsulates this mission in 2 Corinthians 5:18-19, where he describes believers as ambassadors for Christ, entrusted with the message of reconciliation. This mission is not merely a task but a reflection of God's character, as seen in John 3:16, where His love compels Him to send His Son for the salvation of the world. Furthermore, the glory of the cross, as discussed in related sermons, highlights the culmination of God's mission, revealing the depth of His love and the power of sacrifice. Through the lens of divine mission, believers are called to participate in God's redemptive work, proclaiming the hope found in Christ and living out the transformative message of the Gospel in a world in need.
Ignatius of Antioch preaches about the stumbling-block of the cross to unbelievers and the salvation it brings to believers. He emphasizes the Son of God's eternal existence, His miraculous conception by the Holy Ghost in the womb of Mary, fulfilling the prophecy of a virgin birth. Ignatius highligh