GOD’S VISION

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The Babylonian Empire was rising to power, and Judah was facing internal corruption and external threats. Habakkuk, a farmer and a Prophet, cried and sighed to God for his people plagued by injustice, violence, and idolatry. Then God told him, a Jew, to look at the Gentiles and, “Behold and wonder marvelously; for I will work a work in your days which you will not believe, not even if it is declared to you.” (Hab 1:5). Habakkuk became curious and earnestly wanted to know what God was going to do so he climbed up the rampart of the city and waited. God told him, “Write the vision, and make it plain on the tablets, that he who reads it may run. For the vision is for an appointed time ...” (Hab. 2:1-3)

The vision that God gave him was “For the earth shall be filled with the knowledge of the glory of Lord, as the waters cover the sea.” (Hab. 2:14). Then Habakkuk committed: “Though the fig tree shall not blossom, and fruit is not on the vines; the labor of the olive fails, and the fields yield no food. The flock is cut off from the fold, and no herd is in the stalls; yet I will rejoice in the Lord and joy in the God of my salvation.” He asked God to give him legs like a deer so he could run fast and fulfil the vision. (Hab. 3:17-19)

We do not know what Habakkuk was able to achieve, but we know for sure that this prophecy is now being rapidly fulfilled. While injustice and violence are escalating, at the same time, the earth is now being rapidly filled with the knowledge of the glory of the Lord as the water covers the sea. Habakkuk's famous declaration, "the righteous shall live by faith," underscores the importance of trusting God in uncertain times. (Hab. 2:4)

BIBLICAL VISION AND MISSION

Biblical Vision:

A biblical vision is a clear and compelling picture of what God wants to achieve through His people. It inspires and motivates individuals and communities to work towards a common goal.

Key Elements:

1. God-centered: A biblical vision is centered on God's character, purposes, and plans (Proverbs 19:21, Jeremiah 29:11).

2. Kingdom-focused: The vision is focused on advancing the Kingdom by making disciples of all nations. (Matt. 28:18-20, Acts 1:8)

3. People-oriented: The vision prioritizes the well-being, salvation, and transformation of people (Matthew 22:37-40, 1 Timothy 2:3-4).

Biblical Mission:

A biblical mission is the specific task or assignment given by God to His people. It's the practical outworking of the vision, demonstrating God's love and care for the world.

Key Elements:

1. God-ordained: A biblical mission is ordained by God and aligned with His purposes (Acts 13:1-3, 1 Corinthians 12:4-7).

2. Christ-centered: The mission is centered on Jesus Christ, the church's foundation and cornerstone (Ephesians 2:20, 1 Cor.3:11).

3. Spirit-empowered: The mission is empowered by the Holy Spirit, who equips and enables believers to fulfill their tasks (Acts 1:8, 2 Corinthians 3:6).

Examples of Biblical Vision and Mission:

  1. The Great Commission: To make disciples of all nations, baptize, and teach them to obey His commands (Matt. 28:18-20).
  2. Apostle Peter’s Mission: Although Peter preached to the Gentiles like Cornelius, his primary mission was to preach the Gospel to the Jews. (Galatians 2:8)
  3. The Apostle Paul's Mission: Paul's mission to preach the gospel to the Gentiles, establish churches, and equip believers for ministry (Acts 9:15-16, Galatians 1:15-16).
  4. The Early Church's Mission: The early church's mission to share the gospel, care for the poor, and build a community of believers (Acts 2:42-47, 4:32-37).

 “Where there is no vision, people perish” (Proverbs 29:18).

 

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