The ultimate purpose of missions is not just to reach people—it is to glorify God. While the salvation of souls is a wonderful result of missionary efforts, the highest aim of missions is to declare the greatness of God among the nations. Psalm 96:3 commands us, “Declare his glory among the heathen, his wonders among all people.” Missions is about exalting God’s name where it has not yet been known, lifting high the truth of who He is, and calling all people to worship Him. When souls are saved and lives are transformed, it is not just for their benefit but for the glory of the One who redeemed them.
Missions is not about numbers—it is about the exaltation of Jesus Christ. Every person who repents and believes in the gospel becomes a testimony of God’s grace, and every new believer is another voice that will one day join in the eternal worship of our King. Philippians 2:10-11 gives us a glimpse of the future fulfillment of missions: “That at the name of Jesus every knee should bow… and that every tongue should confess that Jesus Christ is Lord, to the glory of God the Father.” One day, people from every nation, tribe, and language will gather before the throne of God, declaring His praises for all eternity. Every missionary effort, every gospel conversation, and every act of obedience to the Great Commission is a step toward that glorious reality.
Understanding the glory of God in missions also reminds us that success is not measured by human standards. While we long to see many come to Christ, we must remember that missions is ultimately about obedience, not results. Whether we see immediate fruit or not, every act of faithfulness in proclaiming the gospel honors God. Isaiah 55:11 assures us, “So shall my word be that goeth forth out of my mouth: it shall not return unto me void, but it shall accomplish that which I please, and it shall prosper in the thing whereto I sent it.” God’s glory is revealed not only in the souls that are saved but also in the faithfulness of His people to proclaim His name, no matter the outcome.
Today, take time to worship God for His faithfulness in missions. Thank Him for the work He is doing around the world and pray that His name would be exalted in every nation, tribe, and tongue. Ask Him to give you a heart that is consumed with His glory, a passion for His mission, and a willingness to be part of His plan. The purpose of missions is not simply to grow churches or change communities—it is to magnify the greatness of God. Will you be part of that mission?