When you hear the word “mission,” what comes to mind?
For many, mission is surrounded by misconceptions that can keep them from exploring the calling God may have placed on their hearts.
Here, we’re breaking the myths about mission so you can see how God might be inviting you into His global story in a way that fits who you are and how He’s gifted you.
Myth #1: “You Have to Be a Pastor or Preacher to Be a Missionary”
Truth: God uses all kinds of people in mission.
Teachers, nurses, engineers, artists, IT specialists, counsellors, entrepreneurs, you name it. If you have a skill, there’s a good chance it can be used in mission. Mission today is about bringing the Kingdom of God through both word and deed, often in practical, relational ways.
“There are different kinds of gifts, but the same Spirit distributes them.” – 1 Corinthians 12:4
Myth #2: “Mission Means Moving Overseas”
Truth: Mission can be across the world or across the street.
While some are called to international work, others serve as cross-cultural missionaries in their own cities. With globalisation and migration, the mission field is now local and global. God may be calling you to reach international students, refugees, or neighbours right where you are.
Myth #3: “You Have to Give Everything Up”
Truth: God may call you to sacrifice but He also uses your life experience and profession as part of His plan.
Mission isn’t always about starting over. Often, it’s about repurposing what you already have. Your degree, your job, your passions they can all become tools for sharing Christ. Many missionaries today serve bi-vocationally or through “marketplace missions,” working in their field while living intentionally for the Gospel.
Myth #4: “Mission Is Only for the Super-Spiritual”
Truth: Every believer is invited to be part of God’s mission.
You don’t need to have it all together before you say “yes” to missions. God uses ordinary people with willing hearts. Your story, even your brokenness, can be a powerful testimony in the lives of others.
“But we have this treasure in jars of clay to show that this all-surpassing power is from God and not from us.” – 2 Corinthians 4:7
Myth #5: “Mission Isn’t Relevant in Today’s World”
Truth: The mission of God is always relevant.
In a world filled with division, displacement, and spiritual hunger, the Gospel is still the hope people need. Mission today often involves education, development, trauma care, business as mission, and advocacy demonstrating the love of Christ in tangible, contextual ways.
Final Thoughts: Rethink Mission, Rediscover Your Role
Breaking the myths about mission helps us understand that serving God is not about fitting a mould it’s about faithfully responding to His call in the context of your gifts, passions, and season of life.
💡 Ready to take the next step?
Start by praying about where God might use you. Talk to a missions coach, explore short-term opportunities, or find out how your profession could make a global impact.
You don’t have to have it all figured out, just be willing to go where He leads.
🔍 Want to learn more?
Reach out today or explore current mission opportunities in Asia, the Arab world, and Aotearoa!
