Pastor Trent Douglass delivered a heartfelt and compelling message centered on the theme of the church being a “sending hub” for missions. Drawing from Romans 10:9–15, he emphasized the biblical mandate that people cannot believe unless they hear, and they cannot hear unless someone is sent to preach the gospel.
The core idea: Every believer is either sent or is called to “hold the rope” for those who are sent.
He shared the story of William Carey, known as the “father of modern missions,” and how the phrase “holding the rope” came from Carey’s call to India, supported faithfully by his friend Andrew Fuller. This picture powerfully illustrates the vital role of senders who support missionaries through prayer, encouragement, and finances.
Pastor Trent encouraged the church to take missions personally and seriously, reminding us that:
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The book of Acts is our model for the Church—marked by gospel expansion through sending and going.
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There are over 3 billion unreached people in the world today, still waiting to hear the name of Jesus.
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Every church should function as a sending base, not just relying on parachurch organizations.
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The Great Commission isn’t just for missionaries—it’s the Church’s collective calling.
He shared stories from the field, including a powerful moment with the Taposa tribe in Africa, who said, “We know there’s a God, but we don’t know His name or how to worship Him.” This represents the longing of unreached people around the world and the urgent need for the Church to respond.
Pastor Trent closed by urging the church to pray, give, and send intentionally, and to stay stirred by engaging with missionary stories, updates, and biographies. He reminded everyone that we are either “goers” or “senders,” and both roles are equally vital to fulfilling the mission of Christ.
The evening ended in worship, celebration, and a powerful report: $291,767 was pledged for missions—a testimony to the church’s generous and faithful heart for the nations.
