On Mission Where You Are
Learning to Live with Joy, Unity, and Gospel Focus Before, During, and After the Trip
Dr. Gregory Mathias
NOBTS Associate Professor of Global Missions
Session Overview
In this session Greg Mathias calls students to see joy and unity as essential marks of life on mission. As teams enter a city full of celebration, culture, and real need, he reminds them that the way we show up together matters deeply. Joy in the Lord, unity with one another, and clarity about why we are here all point people to Jesus before a single word is spoken.
The heart of this teaching is the reminder that every follower of Jesus is a global Christian and that mission begins long before a trip starts. Greg encourages students to practice joy, unity, and gospel centered living right where they are, so that when they arrive in New Orleans they are simply continuing a way of life they already know. This kind of joyful, unified presence reflects a deep walk with Jesus and helps others clearly see who we belong to and why we serve.
Key Takeaways
- Joy in the Lord is a powerful witness that reflects a real walk with Jesus.
- Unity within the team shapes how others experience the gospel through us.
- A focused gospel purpose helps teams stay grounded in why they are serving.
- The habits we build at home should carry with us into every mission context.
Discussion Questions
- 01Where do you find it easiest or hardest to live with joy in your daily life?
- 02How does unity, or a lack of unity, affect the way people experience a group?
- 03What can distract a team from joy and unity during a mission trip?
- 04How does keeping the gospel at the center help protect joy and unity within a team?