The Church and Its Mission

"I will build my church," said Christ. "This introduces certain questions for our consideration," said W.E. Vine, "namely, what the Church is, and what are its calling, constitution, and destiny." Moreover, "in the mind of God, the ultimate object of missionary activity is the planting of churches." The Church and its Mission looks at these two facets of the work of God in this world. "The Church and the Churches" is an excellent exposition of the New Testament doctrine of the church. First, W.E. Vine unfolds the truths of the universal church, including its relationship to the kingdom of heaven and points out the dangers of ecclesiastical organization. He then focuses on the local church including vital topics such as spiritual gifts, church organization, baptism, the Lord's Supper, church discipline, and tithing. "The Divine Plan of Missions" is a practical guide to missionary work, reflecting W.E. Vine's experience with Echoes of Service, a missionary sending organization. By corresponding with more than 1,000 missionaries, he came to understand the challenges and opportunities of missionary work. Each of these sections of The Church and Its Mission also includes shorter articles that examine critical issues for leaders in local churches and in missionary service. An insightful article on "Leading in Prayer," for instance, should be read by all who lead church meetings. And "Approved by God" explores questions to ask when considering a person for missionary service, or for any position in church leadership.