Special Edition Unreached People and Groups and Our Involvement By M. S. Stephens Text: Romans 10:13-15 "For whosoever shall call upon the name of the Lord shall be saved. How then shall they call on him in whom they have not believed? And how shall they believe in him of whom they have not heard? And how shall they hear without a preacher? And how shall they preach, except they are sent? As it is written, How beautiful are the feet of them that preach the gospel of peace, and bring glad tidings of good things!" Introduction The gospel of Jesus Christ is meant for all people, yet millions around the world remain unreached. These are people who have little or no access to the message of salvation. As believers, we are called to be actively involved in reaching them. This message will explore the biblical foundation of missions, the challenges involved, and how we can fulfil the Great Commission effectively. 1. Understanding the Basics Who Are the Unreached? - Unreached people groups are those who have little or no exposure to the gospel. They include: - Remote tribes with no known Christian presence - People in countries hostile to Christianity - Urban populations dominated by false religions or secularism God’s Heart for the Nations - Genesis 12:3 – God’s promise to bless all nations through Abraham - Psalm 67:2-3 – The nations are to know and praise God - Matthew 28:19-20 – The Great Commission commands us to make disciples of all nations - Acts 1:8 – The gospel is to be spread from local communities to the ends of the earth God’s plan has always been to redeem people from every tribe, tongue, and nation. He desires that none should perish but that all should come to repentance (2 Peter 3:9). 2. Challenges in Reaching the Unreached Spiritual Challenges Opposition from false religions (Islam, Hinduism, Buddhism, atheism) - Strongholds of darkness and demonic influence (2 Corinthians 4:4) - Persecution of missionaries and converts (Matthew 5:10-12) Cultural and Linguistic Barriers - Language differences make communication difficult - Cultural misunderstandings can hinder the effectiveness of evangelism - Some traditions oppose Christianity, making conversion a societal taboo Political and Legal Restrictions - Anti-Christian laws in many nations - Governmental restrictions on evangelism - Hostility toward foreign missionaries Indifference and Lack of Involvement - Many Christians are unaware or unconcerned about the plight of the unreached - Lack of financial support and missionary training - Fear of stepping out in faith to obey God's call 3. Biblical Concepts Associated with the Topic God’s Call to Evangelize Isaiah 6:8 – "Here am I; send me." God calls His people to go. - Romans 15:20 – Paul’s desire to preach where Christ has not been named. - John 4:35 – "Lift up your eyes, and look on the fields; for they are white already to harvest." The Power of the Gospel - Romans 1:16 – The gospel is the power of God for salvation. - 1 Corinthians 9:22 – "I am made all things to all men, that I might by all means save some." God’s Promise to Empower Us - Acts 4:31 – Boldness in preaching comes from the Holy Spirit. - 2 Timothy 1:7 – God has not given us the spirit of fear. - Matthew 10:19-20 – The Holy Spirit will guide us in what to say. 4. Applications: What the Topic Teaches Us A. We Must Have a Burden for the Lost - Like Paul, we should have a deep desire to see souls saved (Romans 9:1-3). - We should intercede for the unreached (1 Timothy 2:1-4). B. We Should Be Actively Involved - Through going – Some are called to be missionaries (Isaiah 6:8). - Through sending – Supporting missionaries through finances and prayers (3 John 1:5-8). - Through praying – Jesus commanded us to pray for labourers (Matthew 9:37-38). C. We Must Overcome Fear and Complacency - Fear of persecution should not hinder us (Matthew 10:28). - The early church faced opposition but continued to preach boldly (Acts 5:29). 5. Implications and Lessons from the Topic - The gospel is for all, not just for a select few. - If we do not go, many will perish without ever hearing about Jesus. - God expects every believer to take part in His mission. - There is great reward in obeying the Great Commission (Matthew 25:21). 6. Calls to Action A. Pray for Unreached - People and Missionaries - Make it a habit to pray for a specific unreached people group. - Pray for boldness and protection for missionaries. B. Support Missionary Efforts - Give financially to mission organizations. - Encourage and support those who are called to the mission field. C. Be a Witness Where You Are - Evangelize your neighbours, co-workers, and communities. - Be intentional about sharing the gospel in your daily life. D. Consider Going - If God is calling you, step out in faith. - Join short-term mission trips to gain firsthand experience. 7. Conclusion The Great Commission is not optional—it is a command from our Lord. There are still billions who have not heard the name of Jesus. We must be willing to go, send, pray, and give to fulfil God’s mission. The question remains: Will you be involved? Matching Baptist Hymn "Send the Light" – Baptist Hymnal #437 "Send the light, the blessed gospel light, let it shine from shore to shore..." This hymn perfectly captures the urgency of sharing the gospel with those who have never heard it. Closing Prayer Heavenly Father, we thank You for the gift of salvation and for calling us to be Your witnesses. We acknowledge that many are still unreached, and we ask for Your grace to be actively involved in reaching them. Stir within us a passion for missions, remove every fear and complacency, and help us to be faithful in prayer, giving, and evangelism. Bless the missionaries who are labouring in difficult fields, protect them, and grant them success in their work. May Your name be glorified among all nations, and may we be faithful in doing our part until the whole world hears of Your love. In Jesus' mighty name, we pray. Amen. This message provides a solid biblical foundation, practical applications, and a challenge for every believer to be involved in reaching the unreached. May we receive grace to participate in the Great Commission. Amen.