In a previous article related to the Great Commission and single adults, we mentioned that single adults are one of the most unchurched groups of people. Although the Great Commission commands us to preach the gospel to every creature, million of singles are unreached and still living in spiritual darkness. Why is this? The sad but true story is that many churches and individual Christians do not take the great Commission seriously. For example, in his influential book, The Disciple-Making Pastor, Bill Hull stated that only 7% of evangelical Christians share their faith with others.
Obeying the Great Commission
What they’ve taught us at Liberty Seminary regarding the Great Commission is that people are more likely to become Christians if they hear the Gospel message from people like themselves. Therefore, as Christian singles, we have a great opportunity and obligation to share Christ with other singles who have not experienced Jesus’ love.
In Ephesians 5:8-14, we learn about darkness versus light. Paul gives us three characteristics of children of light: they bear fruit (such as goodness, righteousness, and truth), they find out what pleases the Lord (via the Word, prayer, sensitivity to the Spirit’s promptings, etc.), and they choose not to mix with darkness (they refuse to share with deeds of darkness in any way).
Believers who walk as children of light shine ever so brightly, exposing darkness and giving people the opportunity to respond to the light of Christ. What a privilege to be used by God to shine in a dark world for His glory. Let’s walk as children of light!
The Great Commission, as given in Matthew 28:19-20, calls believers to “go and make disciples of all nations.” This mandate is not limited to any specific group, marital status, or stage in life. Single adults, in particular, possess unique opportunities and strengths to engage with and fulfill this divine mission. Let’s delve into the profound connection between the Great Commission and single adults and explore how they can channel their singular focus into realizing this global vision.
Single Adults: A Powerful Force in Fulfilling the Great Commission
For many, singleness is often seen in the context of what’s missing—a partner, children, or family life. However, the biblical perspective offers a refreshing viewpoint. Paul, in 1 Corinthians 7:8, recommends singleness, emphasizing the undivided attention one can give to the Lord’s work. This is not to devalue married life but to recognize the unique position singles are in to serve God.
1. Flexibility and Mobility:
Single adults can often make life changes, travel, or relocate with a nimbleness that is challenging for families with children. This flexibility can be leveraged for missionary work, short-term missions, or even to support new church plants in various locations.
2. Undivided Attention:
Without family responsibilities, single adults can focus more intensely on discipleship, evangelism, and personal spiritual growth. This laser focus can be channeled into deeper study, prayer, and community involvement.
3. Diverse Interactions:
Being single often means a broader social network, including colleagues, friends, and acquaintances from different walks of life. These diverse connections can be avenues for sharing the Gospel.
Overcoming Challenges and Embracing the Mission
While single adults have unique advantages, they also face distinct challenges, including loneliness, societal pressures, and the occasional sense of aimlessness. However, the Great Commission provides purpose and direction.
1. Community Building:
By engaging in church activities, small groups, or mission-focused communities, single adults can build strong, supportive networks. These connections not only alleviate loneliness but also fortify their commitment to the Great Commission.
2. Leveraging Digital Platforms:
In today’s digital age, online platforms provide an unprecedented opportunity to spread the Gospel. Single adults, often well-acquainted with these platforms, can utilize them for evangelism, discipleship, and community building.
3. Personal Growth and Equipping:
Embracing the Great Commission challenges believers to grow spiritually. By seeking resources, training, and mentorship, single adults can equip themselves more effectively to share the Gospel and make disciples.
The Broader Church’s Role
The church, as a collective body, plays a pivotal role in integrating single adults into the Great Commission’s mission. It is essential to create inclusive spaces, provide resources, and offer mentorship opportunities. By recognizing and valuing the unique contributions of single adults, churches can harness their potential and drive the mission forward.
Conclusion
Single adults, with their distinctive strengths and potential, play a crucial role in realizing the Great Commission. By tapping into their flexibility, focus, and diverse connections, they can profoundly impact the spread of the Gospel. As they overcome personal challenges and embrace their divine calling, single adults not only find purpose and fulfillment but also propel the church toward its global vision.
The Great Commission beckons every believer, irrespective of their marital status. It’s time we celebrate and harness the power of single adults in this grand mission, recognizing their unparalleled potential to shape the world.
As a single Christian, are you living so that other singles are being drawn to Christ, or away from Him? What are your thoughts on the Great Commission?
Bible Verse of Day
-We are therefore Christ’s Ambassadors, as though God were making his appeal through us. We implore you on Christ’s behalf: Be reconciled to God.- 2 Corinthians 5:20
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