Topic: Triumphant Missionaries
Text: Romans 8:37

As we celebrate the 43rd anniversary of the Nigeria Evangelical Missions Association (NEMA) during this Month of Missions, our theme, “More Than Conquerors,” resonates deeply with the call to missions. It reminds us that even in the face of challenges, God has equipped His church to advance His kingdom.

The Call to Missions
The call to missions is not optional for the church; it is a mandate from Christ. In Matthew 28:19-20, Jesus commands, “Go therefore and make disciples of all nations…” This commission is reinforced in Acts 1:8, where He says, “You will receive power when the Holy Spirit has come upon you, and you will be my witnesses in Jerusalem and in all Judea and Samaria, and to the ends of the earth.”
The theme “More Than Conquerors” reminds us that the church is not called to retreat in fear but to press forward in faith. The assurance of Christ’s victory gives us confidence to engage in missions, even in hard times and amidst persecution.

Why Missions in Hard Times and Persecution?
1.God’s Mission is Unstoppable: In the early church, persecution led to the spread of the gospel (Acts 8:1-4). Hard times do not hinder God’s work but often catalyse it.
2.Christ’s suffering as Our Model: Jesus endured suffering to fulfil His mission (Hebrews 12:2-3). Likewise, missionaries follow His example, knowing their labour is not in vain (1 Corinthians 15:58).
3.The Harvest is Urgent: In John 4:35, Jesus said, “The fields are ripe for harvest.” The urgency of reaching the lost should compel us to act, regardless of circumstances.
4.Eternal Perspective: Romans 8:18 reminds us that “our present sufferings are not worth comparing with the glory that will be revealed in us.” This eternal hope sustains missionaries in difficult seasons.

Reflective Questions:
1.How does the theme “More Than Conquerors” inspire us to engage in missions today?
2.What are the biggest challenges missionaries face, and how can the church support them?
3.In what ways can we, as individuals, participate in the Great Commission, even during difficult times?
4.How can persecution and hardship be used as opportunities for gospel advancement?

Prayers for Missionaries:
1.Pray for missionaries to be strong and courageous, knowing that the Lord is with them wherever they go (Joshua 1:9). May they have boldness to proclaim the Gospel without fear.
2.Pray that the God, surround missionaries with His protection as they travel and minister. That the Lord provide for their physical, emotional, and spiritual needs according to His riches in glory (Philippians 4:19).
3.Pray to the Lord, that their labour bear much fruit. Let the seeds they sow grow into vibrant, thriving communities of faith (1 Corinthians 3:6-7).
4.Pray that in times of hardship and persecution, the Heavenly Father reminds missionaries that they are more than conquerors through Christ. God sustain them with His peace and joy (John 16:33).
5.Pray that the Holy Spirit, prepare the hearts of those who will hear the gospel. To break down barriers and open doors for the message of Christ to reach the unreached (2 Corinthians 4:4-6).

Conclusion:
As we celebrate NEMA’s 43rd anniversary, let us renew our commitment to the Great Commission. Let us remember that we are called to be “more than conquerors” through Christ, not by avoiding challenges but by overcoming them through His love and power. Let this month ignite a passion for missions in every heart, leading to transformative change in the nations.
To God be the glory!

Andrew Gwaivangmin
Executive Secretary, Nigeria Evangelical Missions Association (NEMA)