Basic Principles of Biblical Missions, Church Planting & Hinderances to Missions.

 Basic Principles of Biblical Missions:

Several basic principles of biblical missions are derived from the teachings and examples found in the Bible. Here are a few:

1. God is the initiator and sender of missions: Biblical missions are not simply human endeavors but are ultimately initiated and directed by God. As Jesus says in John 20:21, “As the Father has sent me, I am sending you.”
2. The gospel is central to missions: Producing the gospel message of salvation through Jesus Christ is the primary goal of biblical missions.
3. Discipleship is a critical component of missions: Biblical missions involve evangelism, discipleship, and the development of mature believers.
4. The Church is the primary agent of missions: Biblical missions are carried out primarily through the work of the local Church rather than individual missionaries or parachurch organizations.
5. Missions involve words and deeds: The biblical model of missions includes the proclamation of the gospel message and demonstrating God’s love through service and compassion.
6. Missions must be contextualized: Biblical missions require a deep understanding and respect for the cultural, social, and economic context of the communities served.
7. Missions involve local and global outreach: Biblical missions are not limited to a particular geographic location or demographic but include all people and places.
8. Prayer is essential to missions: Biblical missions require dependence on God through prayer, seeking His guidance and power for effective outreach.
9. Sacrifice and suffering are inherent in missions: Biblical missions may involve sacrifice, suffering, and persecution for the gospel’s sake, as modeled by Jesus and the early apostles.
10. Mission is a lifelong calling: Biblical mission is not simply a short-term endeavor but a lifelong calling to serve God and participate in His mission to redeem the world.
11. Missions involve the whole Church: The work of missions is not limited to a select few individuals but is the responsibility of the entire Church community.
12. Missions require collaboration and partnership: Effective mission work involves collaboration and partnership between local churches, missionaries, and other organizations to maximize impact.
13. Holistic missions address both physical and spiritual needs: Biblical missions are concerned not only with individuals’ spiritual needs but also their physical, emotional, and social well-being.
14. Missions require cultural sensitivity and humility: Effective missions require humility, respect, and openness to learn from and work alongside people of different cultures and backgrounds.
15. Missions are ultimately about God’s glory: The ultimate goal of biblical missions is not the advancement of any particular organization or individual but the glorification of God through the redemption of people from every tribe, language, and nation.

There are foundational and functional concepts of biblical missions. Here are some examples:

Foundational Concepts:

• Means: Biblical missions involve using various means to reach people with the gospel, such as preaching, teaching, evangelism, discipleship, and acts of service and compassion.
• Message: The gospel message of salvation through faith in Jesus Christ is at the core of biblical missions.
• Method: The methods used in biblical missions should be consistent with the teachings of the Bible and led by the Holy Spirit.
• Contextualization: Effective mission work requires understanding and adapting to the cultural, social, and economic context of the people served.
• Collaboration: Biblical missions involve collaborating with others, such as local churches, missionaries, and organizations, to maximize impact.
• Discipleship: Missions are about evangelism and developing mature believers through discipleship and mentoring.
• Holistic ministry: Biblical missions address not only people’s spiritual needs but also their physical, emotional, and social needs.
• Long-term commitment: Biblical missions requires a long-term commitment to a particular community or people group to build relationships, earn trust, and have a lasting impact.
• Prayer: Prayer is essential to biblical missions, as it recognizes our dependence on God and seeks His guidance and power.
• Sacrifice: Missions may involve personal sacrifice, including leaving home and family, enduring hardship and suffering, and even risking one’s life for the gospel’s sake.

Biblical missions are based on certain assumptions that shape the approach and methods used in mission work. These assumptions include the following:

1. The Bible is the authoritative source for missions: Biblical missions are based on the belief that the Bible is God’s inspired, authoritative Word and contains the message of salvation through faith in Jesus Christ. As such, the Bible is the primary guide for mission work.
2. The gospel is for all people: Biblical missions are based on the belief that the message is for all people, regardless of race, ethnicity, culture, or language. The message of salvation through faith in Jesus Christ is universal and must be shared.
3. All people need salvation: Biblical missions are based on the belief that all people are sinners who need salvation. No one is exempt from the need for salvation, and all people must be allowed to hear and respond to the gospel.
4. The Holy Spirit empowers missions: Biblical missions are based on the belief that the Holy Spirit is the one who empowers and guides missions’ work. The Holy Spirit transforms people’s lives through the missionaries, local believers, and the gospel message.
5. The Church is central to missions: Biblical missions are based on the belief that the Church is central to God’s mission plan. The Church is responsible for carrying out the Great Commission and sending missionaries to share the gospel with everyone.
6. Missions involve both evangelism and social action: Biblical missions are based on the belief that missions involve both evangelism and social action. Evangelism is the proclamation of the gospel message, while social action involves meeting people’s physical and social needs. Both are necessary for effective missions work.
7. Local leaders are essential to missions: Biblical missions are based on the belief that local leaders are essential to practical mission work. Local leaders deeply understand the culture and context and are better equipped to minister to their people. They must be trained, empowered, and supported to work on missions in their communities.

Description of Church Planting: 

Church planting is starting new churches in areas without existing churches or where existing churches cannot meet the community’s needs. Church planting involves evangelism, discipleship, and the development of new leaders. The goal of church planting is to establish an autonomous, reproducing Church that can grow and minister to the needs of its community.

 People-Groups: Church planting involves reaching out to different groups, which may include unreached and unengaged people groups and those who have been reached but still need further discipleship and spiritual growth. These people groups may be defined by their cultural, linguistic, or ethnic differences.

 Decisive Strategies of Church Planting: Several powerful strategies are essential in church planting, including:

1. Prayer: Church planting must be bathed, seeking God’s guidance and direction at every step.
2. Evangelism: Church planting involves the proclamation of the gospel message to those who have not heard it before.
3. Discipleship: Church planting involves disciplining new believers and helping them grow in their faith.
4. Leadership development: Church planting involves the development of new leaders who can lead the new Church and help it to grow.
5. Contextualization: Church planting involves understanding the cultural context of the community and adapting ministry approaches to meet the needs of the people.
6. Partnership: Church planting involves working with other churches and organizations to reach the community and establish a strong, reproducing Church.
7. Sustainability: Church planting involves the development of an autonomous church that can continue to grow and minister to the community’s needs. It includes the development of a solid financial base and training local leaders who can take ownership of the ministry.

 Dynamics of Church Planting: 

Church planting involves a variety of dynamics, including the need for a clear vision and strategy, effective leadership, spiritual and financial support, and the development of solid relationships within the community. It also requires a willingness to adapt and adjust to the community’s needs and the ability to work with other churches and organizations.

1. Clear vision and strategy: Church planting requires a clear vision and strategy to guide the ministry. It involves defining the goals and objectives of the church plant, identifying the target audience, and developing a plan to reach and disciple them.
2. Effective leadership: Church planting requires strong and effective leadership. It includes identifying and training leaders who can lead the church plant and help it to grow.
3. Spiritual and financial support: Church planting requires a robust support system, including prayer, financial support, and other resources needed to launch and sustain the new Church.
4. Relationships: Church planting involves building relationships within the community. It includes reaching out to people and developing a solid presence in the community, as well as working with other churches and organizations to meet the needs of the people.
5. Adaptability: Church planting requires a willingness to adapt and adjust to the community’s needs. It may involve modifying ministry approaches or strategies to meet people’s needs better.

25 Key Cross-Cultural Considerations:

1. Language barriers: Communicating effectively in a different language can be challenging in cross-cultural missions.
2. Cultural norms: Understanding the cultural norms and values of the target culture is essential to avoid offending or misunderstanding people.
3. Religious beliefs: Awareness of the people’s religious beliefs is essential to communicate the gospel message effectively.
4. Worldview: Understanding the worldview of the target culture can help to communicate the gospel message in a way that resonates with them.
5. Gender roles: Understanding the gender roles and expectations of the culture can help to avoid misunderstandings and effectively reach both men and women.
6. Family structure: Understanding the culture’s family structure and dynamics can help build relationships and communicate effectively.
7. Socioeconomic status: Awareness of the people’s socioeconomic status can help develop strategies to meet their needs and effectively communicate the gospel message.
8. Historical context: Understanding the history and context of the culture can help to develop a deeper understanding of the people and their needs.
9. Education: Education levels vary across cultures and can impact the ability to communicate and understand complex concepts.
10. Communication styles: Communication styles can vary across cultures, and it is essential to understand the most effective ways to communicate with people.
11. 11. Understanding the culture’s time orientation can help develop effective strategies and manage expectations.
12. Nonverbal communication: Nonverbal communication can vary across cultures, and it is essential to be aware of the different meanings of gestures and facial expressions.
13. Humor: Humor can vary across cultures, and it is essential to understand what is considered humorous and what might be offensive.
14. Food and eating habits: Food and eating habits can differ across cultures, and it is essential to respect dietary restrictions and preferences.
15. Dress and appearance: Dress and appearance can vary across cultures, and respecting cultural norms is essential.
16. Relationships: Building relationships is essential in cross-cultural missions, and it is crucial to understand how to build relationships in the target culture.
17. Social hierarchy: Understanding the culture’s social hierarchy and power dynamics can help navigate relationships and effectively communicate.
18. Taboos: Understanding the taboos and sensitive topics of the culture can help to avoid offending or causing harm.
19. Personal space: Personal space norms can vary across cultures, and it is important to respect boundaries.
20. Physical touch: Physical touch norms can vary across cultures, and it is important to respect personal boundaries.
21. Health practices: Health practices can vary across cultures, and it is vital to understand how to address health concerns effectively.
22. Technology: Technology access and usage can vary across cultures, and it is essential to understand how to use technology in cross-cultural missions effectively.
23. 23. Infrastructure: Infrastructure can vary across cultures, and it is vital to understand the resources available in the target culture.
24. Economic factors: Economic factors can impact the ability to communicate and minister to the needs of the people effectively.
25. Political climate: Political climate can impact the ability to minister in certain areas, and it is essential to understand the political context of the target culture.

Some characteristics of an effective missionary include:

1. A deep love for God and a passion for sharing the gospel
2. Flexibility and adaptability in cross-cultural contexts
3. Humility and a willingness to learn from the local culture
4. Good communication skills, including proficiency in the local language
5. Cultural sensitivity and respect for local customs and traditions
6. Patience and perseverance in the face of challenges and setbacks
7. Ability to work well in a team and collaborate with local believers
8. A servant’s heart and willingness to serve others
9. Good problem-solving skills and the ability to think creatively
10. Emotional and spiritual maturity, ability to handle stress and uncertainty
11. Willingness to make personal sacrifices for the sake of the mission
12. Ability to develop meaningful relationships with people from diverse backgrounds
13. Commitment to prayer and reliance on God’s guidance and strength
14. Effective time management and organizational skills
15. Cultural awareness and sensitivity in matters of dress, food, and social customs
16. Courage to face opposition and persecution
17. Ability to teach and disciple new believers
18. Flexibility to adapt to changing circumstances and ministry needs
19. Sensitivity to the needs of women and children in the community
20. Cultural understanding of local healthcare practices and needs
21. Willingness to work with and empower local leaders and communities
22. Knowledge and understanding of the local religious and spiritual beliefs
23. Ability to contextualize the gospel message for the local culture
24. Willingness to work in challenging and remote locations
25. Commitment to ongoing learning and personal growth.
26. A heart for justice and compassion, particularly for the poor and marginalized
27. A willingness to make sacrifices for the sake of others, including living a simple lifestyle
28. Cultural competence and ability to bridge cultural gaps
29. 29, Sensitivity to power dynamics and ability to work towards equality and justice
30. Creativity and innovation in ministry approaches
31. Strong work ethic and willingness to persevere through difficult circumstances
32. Ability to build and maintain relationships with partners and supporters back home
33. Willingness to work alongside and support local churches and ministries
34. Ability to integrate and contextualize their faith and life within the local context
35. Ability to handle criticism and feedback in a healthy and constructive manner
36. Self-awareness and ability to recognize and manage personal biases and limitations
37. Good emotional intelligence and ability to navigate relationships and conflict
38. Courage to take risks and step out in faith
39. Ability to balance ministry demands with personal and family needs
40. Humor and joy amid difficult circumstances

Building a Missions Mindset and Ministry:

Building a mission mindset and ministry in the local Church is essential to fulfilling the Great Commission to make disciples of all nations. Building a mission mindset and ministry requires intentional effort and a commitment to fulfilling the Great Commission. By focusing on the needs of the lost and partnering with missionaries and mission organizations, your Church can significantly impact the world for the gospel’s sake.

Building a Missions Mindset:

Here are some ideas to help build a missions mindset and ministry in your Church:

1. Preach and teach on the importance of missions: Consistently share the biblical mandate for missions and the importance of reaching the lost with the gospel. As the church leadership preaches and teaches the importance of missions, they cast vision and set expectations for the congregation. It is essential to share what the Bible says about missions, why it is important to God, and how it should also be essential to us. It can be done through sermons, Sunday school lessons, Bible studies, and other teaching opportunities.
2. Provide regular updates on mission work: Sharing stories and updates from missionaries and mission organizations helps the congregation understand mission work’s needs, challenges, and victories. It also creates a connection between the Church and the missionaries they support. Regular updates can be shared through newsletters, social media, email, and video messages.
3. Host mission-focused events: Plan events like prayer nights, mission fairs, or guest speakers to help the congregation engage with missions on a deeper level. Prayer nights, mission fairs, or guest speakers can create opportunities for the congregation to learn more about missions, connect with missionaries, and participate in mission work. The missions committee or leadership team can plan and execute these events.
4. Encourage personal involvement: Provide opportunities for members to participate in short-term mission trips, support missionaries, and pray for mission work. Short-term mission trips can help members experience mission work firsthand, develop relationships with missionaries, and gain a deeper understanding of the importance of missions. Supporting missionaries can include financial contributions, care packages, or letters of encouragement. Praying for mission work can be incorporated into the regular prayer life of the Church.

Building a Missions Ministry:

1. Develop a missions strategy: The missions strategy should define the goals and objectives of the missions ministry and determine the best ways to achieve them. The strategy should also include a plan for partnering with missionaries and mission organizations, training and equipping missionaries, and fostering a culture of prayer.
2. Partner with missionaries and mission organizations: Partnering with missionaries and mission organizations allows the Church to support mission work more strategically and intentionally. It can include financial support, sending short-term mission teams, and building relationships with the missionaries and organizations.
3. Train and equip missionaries: Training and equipping missionaries can include educating them on cross-cultural communication, teaching them how to raise support, and helping them develop skills for effective ministry. The Church can also offer mentorship and accountability to help missionaries thrive in their ministry.
4. Foster a culture of prayer: Praying for missionaries, their families, and the people they serve is essential to mission ministry. The Church can foster a culture of prayer by incorporating prayer for missions into regular church services, holding prayer meetings specifically for missions, and providing resources to help members pray for missions effectively.
5. Engage the community: Developing outreach programs to serve the local community and sharing the gospel with those who have not heard it is an integral part of missions ministry. It includes partnering with local organizations, hosting community events, and building relationships with community members. These outreach programs should aim to share the love of Christ and invite people to join the church community.

Missions are crucial to the Church’s mandate to make disciples of all nations. However, some common misconceptions and myths about missions can hinder the Church’s effectiveness in fulfilling this mandate. Here are a few examples:

1. Missions are only for professional missionaries: This is a common myth suggesting that only people specifically called full-time missionaries can do mission work. However, the truth is that every believer is called to be a witness for Christ and to make disciples. While some may be called full-time missionaries, believers can participate in mission work through prayer, financial support, and short-term trips.
2. Missions are only for certain types of people: Another common misconception is that only certain types of people can be effective in mission work, such as those who are outgoing, adventurous, or well-educated. However, the truth is that God can use anyone willing to serve Him. He has equipped each believer with unique gifts and talents that can be used for His purposes in mission work.
3. Missions are only about evangelism: While evangelism is an essential aspect of missions, it is not the only one. Mission work includes discipleship, humanitarian aid, education, and community development. The goal of mission work is to share the love of Christ in Word and deed, which can take many forms depending on the needs of the people being served.
4. Missions are only for foreign countries: This common misconception suggests that mission work is only relevant in foreign countries. However, the truth is that mission work is needed everywhere, including in our communities. The Great Commission commands us to make disciples of all nations, including our nation and neighborhoods.
5. Missions are only about helping others: While mission work is undoubtedly about serving others, it is also about growing in our faith and obedience to God. When we participate in mission work, we can see God at work in new and powerful ways and grow in our dependence on Him.

It is important to be aware of these misconceptions and myths about missions so that we can more effectively participate in fulfilling the Great Commission. When we clearly understand what mission work is and what it is not, we can more fully serve God’s purposes in the world.

 Philosophical Hindrances:

Various philosophical hindrances can prevent individuals and churches from engaging in world missions. Here are three examples:

1. 1. Humanism: Humanism is a philosophical outlook that emphasizes the value and agency of human beings, individually and collectively. While this perspective can be beneficial in many ways, it can also lead to a focus on human achievement and progress at the expense of spiritual concerns. In world missions, humanism can lead individuals and churches to prioritize social and humanitarian aid over sharing the gospel message. While it is essential to care for people’s physical needs, the ultimate goal of mission work is to share the love of Christ and make disciples.
2. Hedonism: Hedonism is a philosophical outlook that emphasizes pleasure and enjoyment as the ultimate goals in life. While pleasure and enjoyment are desirable, a hedonistic perspective can lead individuals and churches to prioritize their comfort and satisfaction over the needs of others. In world missions, hedonism can lead to a lack of willingness to sacrifice and endure hardship for the gospel’s sake. However, Jesus calls us to take up our cross and follow Him, which may involve discomfort and suffering.
3. Materialism: Materialism is a philosophical outlook emphasizing the importance of material possessions and physical comfort. In the context of world missions, materialism can lead individuals and churches to prioritize their wealth and resources over the needs of others. It can result in a lack of financial support for missionaries and mission work and a lack of willingness to live and sacrifice for the gospel’s sake. However, Jesus calls us to store treasure in heaven rather than on earth.

It is essential to recognize these philosophical hindrances and strive to overcome them in our own lives and the life of the Church. By focusing on Christ and His mission, we can avoid being distracted by worldly philosophies and fully engage in making disciples of all nations.

A more detailed explanation of the three philosophical hindrances to world missions that I previously mentioned:

1. Humanism:

Humanism is a worldview that emphasizes the value and potential of human beings and the importance of human reason and experience. While these values can be beneficial in many ways, they can also lead to a focus on human achievement and progress at the expense of spiritual concerns. In world missions, humanism can lead individuals and churches to prioritize social and humanitarian aid over sharing the gospel message. They may view meeting physical needs as more important than meeting spiritual needs. While it is essential to care for people’s physical needs, the ultimate goal of mission work is to share the love of Christ and make disciples.

2. Hedonism:

Hedonism is a worldview that emphasizes pleasure and enjoyment as the ultimate goals in life. While pleasure and enjoyment are desirable, a hedonistic perspective can lead individuals and churches to prioritize their comfort and satisfaction over the needs of others. In world missions, hedonism can lead to a lack of willingness to sacrifice and endure hardship for the gospel’s sake. However, Jesus calls us to take up our cross and follow Him, which may involve discomfort and suffering. A hedonistic worldview can also focus on short-term gratification rather than long-term spiritual goals.

3. Materialism:

Materialism is a worldview that emphasizes the importance of material possessions and physical comfort. In the context of world missions, materialism can lead individuals and churches to prioritize their wealth and resources over the needs of others. It can result in a lack of financial support for missionaries and mission work and a lack of willingness to live and sacrifice for the gospel’s sake. However, Jesus calls us to store treasure in heaven rather than on earth. A materialistic worldview can also lead to a focus on worldly success rather than eternal significance.

These philosophical hindrances can be subtle and difficult to recognize in ourselves and our churches. However, by being aware of these worldviews and actively seeking to align ourselves with God’s mission, we can overcome these hindrances and more fully engage in the work of making disciples of all nations.

Religious Hindrances: 

Religious hindrances can also hinder world missions. Religious hindrances to world missions can take many forms, from theological positions that de-emphasize the importance of evangelism to syncretistic practices that blend elements of Christianity with other religious traditions. Here are some of the most common religious hindrances to world missions:

Here are some examples:

1. Universalism: Universalism is a religious belief that all people will ultimately be saved and that there are many paths to God. In world missions, universalism can lead individuals and churches to de-emphasize the importance of evangelism and the message of salvation through Jesus Christ. They may view all religions as equally valid and thus see no need to share the gospel with those who do not share their beliefs.
2. Ecumenicalism: Ecumenicalism believes that all Christian denominations should cooperate to promote unity and cooperation. While this can be beneficial in many ways, ecumenicalism can also lead to a focus on unity at the expense of sound doctrine and biblical truth. In the context of world missions, ecumenicalism can lead individuals and churches to water down the gospel message to avoid offending those of other faiths. They may view the message of salvation through Jesus Christ as one of many valid paths to God.
3. Syncretism: Syncretism is blending different religious beliefs and practices. In the context of world missions, syncretism can lead individuals and churches to mix elements of Christianity with elements of other religions, resulting in a distorted message that does not accurately reflect biblical truth. It can lead to confusion and a lack of clarity about the gospel message.
4. Polytheism: Polytheism is the belief in multiple gods. In world missions, polytheism can hinder the gospel’s spread by leading individuals and cultures to view Christianity as just another religion among many rather than the one true faith. It can also lead to a lack of understanding of the unique claims of Christianity, such as the exclusive nature of salvation through Jesus Christ.
5. Pantheism: Pantheism is the belief that God is identical to the universe and its elements. In the context of world missions, pantheism can hinder the spread of the gospel by leading individuals and cultures to view God as an impersonal force rather than a personal God who desires a relationship with humanity.
6. New Age/Eastern mysticism: New Age and Eastern mysticism are belief systems that emphasize spiritual practices such as meditation and yoga. In the context of world missions, these belief systems can hinder the spread of the gospel by leading individuals to view spirituality as a self-centered pursuit of personal enlightenment rather than a relationship with a personal God who desires to save humanity from sin.
7. Liberalism: Liberalism is a theological position that emphasizes individual autonomy and the authority of reason over tradition and scripture. In the context of world missions, liberalism can lead individuals and churches to de-emphasize the importance of biblical truth and reinterpret the message of salvation in ways that do not accurately reflect biblical teaching. It can lead to a diluted and distorted gospel message that does not effectively communicate the truth of God’s love and redemption.

It is essential to be aware of these religious hindrances and to strive to overcome them in our own lives and the life of the Church. By focusing on the unique claims of Christianity and the truth of the gospel message, we can more effectively share the good news of salvation through Jesus Christ with those who do not yet know Him. To overcome these religious hindrances to world missions, Christians need to understand and articulate the unique claims of Christianity, maintain sound doctrine, and avoid syncretistic practices. Christians can also engage in respectful dialogue with those of other faiths, seeking to understand their beliefs and share the gospel’s truth clearly, compellingly, and respectfully. By overcoming these religious hindrances, Christians can more effectively share the good news of salvation through Jesus Christ with those who do not yet know Him.

Political Hindrances:

Political hindrances to world missions can also pose a significant challenge to the spread of the gospel. Political hindrances to world missions can manifest in various ways, and they can significantly impact the ability of Christians to share the gospel message with those who have not heard it. Here are some of the most common political hindrances to world missions:

1. Communism: Communism is a political ideology emphasizing the collective ownership of property and the absence of social classes. In the context of world missions, communism can hinder the spread of the gospel by suppressing religious expression and by promoting atheism as the official state doctrine. It can lead to the persecution of Christians and a lack of religious freedom, making it difficult for the gospel to take root.
2. Naturalism: Naturalism is a philosophical worldview emphasizing the natural world and excluding the supernatural. In the context of world missions, naturalism can hinder the spread of the gospel by promoting a materialistic worldview that denies the existence of God and spiritual reality. It can lead to a lack of interest in the gospel message and resistance to Christian evangelism.
3. Liberation theology: Liberation theology is a theological perspective that emphasizes the importance of social justice and the liberation of oppressed peoples. In world missions, liberation theology can hinder the gospel’s spread by emphasizing social and political change over spiritual transformation. It can lead to a focus on the temporal needs of individuals and communities at the expense of the eternal needs of their souls.

Christians can advocate for religious freedom and human rights to overcome these political hindrances to world missions. They can also work to build relationships with individuals and communities affected by these hindrances, seeking to understand their needs and share the gospel in a way that is relevant to their context. By overcoming these political hindrances, Christians can more effectively share the good news of salvation through Jesus Christ with those who do not yet know Him.

To overcome these political hindrances, Christians can use various strategies, including advocacy efforts, relationship-building, and cultural engagement. It may involve advocating for religious freedom and human rights, building relationships with people affected by political hindrances, and finding ways to share the gospel message that are relevant and meaningful to their context. By doing so, Christians can more effectively share the good news of Jesus Christ with those who do not yet know Him, even in the face of political opposition.