10 Powerful Scriptures for Missions: Biblical Guidance for Reaching the Nations
- Ashland Watson
- Aug 11
- 6 min read
Updated: 7 days ago
Scripture is the heartbeat of missions, providing encouragement, direction, and a clear mandate to spread the Bible. Whether preparing for a mission trip, supporting a missionary, or seeking to live missionally in your own community, these 10 powerful scripture for missions will inspire and equip you to carry out the Great Commission.
At Mosaic International, our mission is to strengthen local churches and mobilize them to reach their communities through relief, development, discipleship, and mobilization. As we expand our work in Tanzania, Rwanda, the Philippines, and South Asia, we are continually reminded of the biblical foundation that fuels our calling.
10 Powerful Scriptures for Missions
Alright, let’s explore 10 powerful scriptures for missions that will encourage and equip you for the journey ahead!
1. Matthew 28:19-20 – The Great Commission
This passage is the cornerstone of Christian missions. Jesus commands His followers to go into all nations, making disciples and teaching them His ways. At Mosaic International, we take this call seriously by equipping local churches to be a light in their communities.
2. Acts 1:8 – The Call to Be Witnesses
Missions begin at home but do not stop there. Jesus calls His disciples to be witnesses everywhere, from their immediate surroundings to the farthest corners of the world.
This scripture for missions reminds us that the Holy Spirit empowers us to carry the gospel to all people.
3. Isaiah 6:8 – The Willing Heart
Isaiah’s response to God’s call should be the heart posture of every missionary. Whether we are physically going or supporting missions through prayer and resources, our willingness to serve is key.
At Mosaic, we seek to cultivate this attitude in the churches we partner with, encouraging believers to answer God's call with boldness and faith.
4. Romans 10:13-15 – The Need for Messengers
This scripture for missions highlights the importance of sending and supporting missionaries. Many people around the world have never heard the gospel, and it is our responsibility to ensure that they do.
Mosaic International partners with local churches to equip and send believers to proclaim the good news.
5. Mark 16:15 – Proclaim the Gospel to All Creation
The gospel is not limited by borders, cultures, or languages. It is meant for all of creation. This verse reminds us that missions are not optional, they are a command.
Whether through relief efforts, discipleship programs, or community development, everything we do at Mosaic is rooted in the call to proclaim the gospel.
6. Psalm 96:3 – Declare His Glory Among the Nations
Worship and missions go hand in hand. As we go out into the world, we are called to declare God's glory so that all nations may come to know Him.
This scripture for missions is a powerful reminder that our ultimate goal is not just humanitarian aid but the glorification of God among the nations.
7. John 20:21 – Sent as Jesus Was Sent
Jesus was sent into the world to bring redemption, and He calls us to follow His example. Missions is not just about going, it’s about being sent with purpose.
At Mosaic, we believe in equipping local churches to carry out this mission in their unique cultural contexts.
8. 1 Chronicles 16:24 – His Salvation to All People
This Old Testament scripture for missions reinforces the universal nature of God’s salvation.
From the very beginning, God’s desire has been to draw all nations to Himself. Our work in different countries is a direct response to this divine call, ensuring that people from all backgrounds have the opportunity to hear the life-changing message of Jesus Christ.
9. Luke 10:2 – The Harvest is Plentiful
The need for missionaries is greater than ever. This scripture reminds us to pray for more workers to be sent into the harvest fields.
Whether in Tanzania, Rwanda, the Philippines, or South Asia, we are committed to raising up local leaders who will continue the work of making disciples.
10. Revelation 7:9 – Every Nation, Tribe, and Tongue
Missions are not just about the present, they are about eternity. This scripture for missions gives us a glimpse of the final fulfillment of God’s plan: people from every nation, tribe, and language worshiping Him. Our mission work is ultimately about preparing for this glorious day.
Equipping Yourself with Scripture for Missions
Whether you’re preparing for your own mission trip, considering getting involved with an organization, or simply looking for ways to live missionally in your daily life, these scriptures for missions are great to jot down in your journal. They serve as reminders of God’s call to reach the nations and His promise to be with us every step of the way.
At Mosaic International, we believe in strengthening local churches and mobilizing believers to make a lasting impact. If you’re looking for opportunities to serve, we’d love to connect and share more about how you can be part of the work happening around the world.
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Frequently Asked Questions about Scriptures for Missions
What scripture talks about missions?
One of the most well-known Bible verses about missions is Matthew 28:19-20, also known as the Great Commission: "Go and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit, and teaching them to obey everything I have commanded you." This passage calls every believer to share the gospel across cultures and borders.
What does Ephesians 4:32 say, and how does it relate to missions?
Ephesians 4:32 says, "Be kind and compassionate to one another, forgiving each other, just as in Christ Jesus God forgave you." In missions, kindness and forgiveness are essential to building trust and relationships that open the door for others to turn to the Lord and experience His grace.
Which Psalm is good for a mission trip?
Psalm 96:3 is often a favorite: "Declare his glory among the nations, his marvelous works among all the peoples." This aligns with other mission-focused passages like Psalm 22:27, which says, "All the ends of the earth will remember and turn to the Lord, and all the families of the nations will bow down before him." These verses remind missionaries to center their work on God’s glory.
What is the best scripture prayer for missionaries?
A powerful prayer comes from Acts 13:47: "I have made you a light for the Gentiles, that you may bring salvation to the ends of the earth." This can be prayed over missionaries, asking God to use them to preach the gospel so that “everyone who calls on the name of the Lord will be saved.”
How can I prepare spiritually for a mission trip?
Immerse yourself in Bible verses about missions such as Romans 10:14-15, which asks, "How can they hear without someone preaching?" Keep your focus on the Great Commission, pray for open doors, and meditate on the vision in Revelation 7:9, where people from every tribe and language stand before the throne with palm branches in their hands. This eternal perspective will strengthen your purpose.
Is missions work only about evangelism?
While evangelism is central, missions also involve discipleship, community development, and service. Scriptures like Isaiah 6:8 ("Here I am, send me") and John 20:21 ("As the Father has sent me, I am sending you") remind us that missions mean living intentionally to serve, teach, and bring salvation to others in both word and action.
How does the Old Testament point to missions?
The Old Testament consistently shows God’s heart for the nations. For example, Psalm 22:27 speaks of the families of the nations remembering and turning to the Lord. Passages like Isaiah 49:6 describe God’s servant as a light for the Gentiles, showing that missions is not just a New Testament concept.
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