The word missions does not appear in the Bible, but a vast revelation is given to the theme of missionary work. The words evangelist, Eph. 4:11, and witness, Acts 1:8, come closest in meaning to the subject.
OT references to the divine purpose of having God’s Word proclaimed include Prov. 14:25-27; Isa. 6:8; cf. Acts 10:43; 14:17. OT missionary activity is seen in Josh. 2:18, 19; 2 Ki. 5:2-4; Jon. 1:2; 3:2. Psa. 96 is known as a missionary Psalm.
During the present age, God is seeking men, John 4:23. For this reason He calls His people to preach the gospel everywhere, Matt. 28:19, 20; Acts 1:8. Believers have an obligation to be ambassadors of Christ, Rom. 1:14-16; 2 Cor. 5:20. They are assured of the presence of Christ, Matt. 28:20; Heb. 13:5.
They are put in trust with the gospel, 1 Thess. 2:4, and sent forth, John 17:18, through open doors, 1 Cor. 16:9, into “the regions beyond,” 2 Cor. 10:16. They are to preach the gospel, Acts 10:42, 43, which is defined in 1 Cor. 15:1-4. They work under divine compulsion and use every means possible, 1 Cor. 9:16, 22.
Missionary activity is of primary importance. It is the secret of blessing upon the local congregation. Missionaries are to be helped by prayer, 2 Cor. 1:11, and supported by the home churches, 1 Cor. 16:1, 2, as workers together with God, 2 Cor. 6:1.
William Evans, The Great Doctrines of the Bible, (Chicago: Bible Institute Colportage Assoc., 1912), WORDsearch CROSS e-book, Under: “Missions”.
AMEN.