A Reformed and Confessional View of Missions?

Jason Helopoulos, Senior Pastor at University Reformed Church (PCA) in East Lansing, Michigan, begins his two-part blog post with a quote from the 1791 General Assembly of the Presbyterian Church in the USA. It reads, albeit with expressions in line with the times in which it was written as,

We have made provision for the sending of missionaries to the frontiers of our country; you will also see that the effects of those missions in some places have been such as to open a pleasing prospect of advancing the Redeemer’s kingdom in the salvation of men, and of sending the light of the gospel to those who have hitherto been involved in the grossest darkness. To carry into effect so noble a design, we cannot doubt that all who have a supreme regard to the glory of God and the salvation of their fellow-men, will cheerfully contribute.”

He then goes on to highlight four items which are unique to a Reformed and confessional approach to missions. They are:

• Spirit-filled prayerfulness
• Word-based
• Confessional
• Church-oriented

In his second blog post he highlights a frequently overlooked aspect of John Calvin's ministry, namely his passion for missions.