The best scriptures from the NIV Bible that can be used in a worship service that emphasizes missions and missionaries are listed for the 17 different ways that are given below. If you click or tap on one of them, it will take you to its location on this page. You can also view “The Best Scriptures for an Evangelism Emphasis Service.”

Calls to Worship

Prayers of Adoration

Prayers and Acclamations of Praise to God

Introductions to Singing

Confessions of Sin

Assurances of God’s Pardon, Declarations of God’s Forgiveness, and Absolutions

Fellowship, Loving One Another, and Passing God’s Peace

Introductions to Scripture Readings

Introductions Before Offerings

Prayers of Dedication

Prayers of Thanksgiving

Prayers of Requests

Prayers of Requests and Thanksgiving

Affirmations, Encouragements, and Promises of God

Exhortations

Ascriptions and Self-Declarations by God

Benedictions and Blessings

Since the following scriptures may contain an incomplete verse and have been removed from their contexts in the Bible, it is up to you to make the final determination if they will properly accomplish the purpose for which you are going to use them. Scriptures that are listed below that are incomplete will have an asterisk after their references.

 

The Best Calls to Worship for a Missions Emphasis Sunday

Give praise to the LORD, proclaim his name; make known among the nations what he has done. Sing to him, sing praise to him; tell of all his wonderful acts. 10 Glory in his holy name; let the hearts of those who seek the LORD rejoice. 11 Look to the LORD and his strength; seek his face always. 12 Remember the wonders he has done, his miracles, and the judgments he pronounced, 23 Sing to the LORD, all the earth; proclaim his salvation day after day. 24 Declare his glory among the nations, his marvelous deeds among all peoples. 25 For great is the LORD and most worthy of praise; he is to be feared above all gods. 26 For all the gods of the nations are idols, but the LORD made the heavens. 27 Splendor and majesty are before him; strength and joy are in his dwelling place. 28 Ascribe to the LORD, all you families of nations, ascribe to the LORD glory and strength. 29 Ascribe to the LORD the glory due his name; bring an offering and come before him. 31 Let the heavens rejoice, let the earth be glad; let them say among the nations, “The LORD reigns!” 32 Let the sea resound, and all that is in it; let the fields be jubilant, and everything in them! 34 Give thanks to the LORD, for he is good; his love endures forever. 36 Praise be to the LORD, the God . . . from everlasting to everlasting. 1 Chronicles 16:8-12, 23-29, 31-32, 34, 36*

My heart, O God, is steadfast, my heart is steadfast; I will sing and make music. I will praise you, LORD, among the nations; I will sing of you among the peoples. 10 For great is your love, reaching to the heavens; your faithfulness reaches to the skies. 11 Be exalted, O God, above the heavens; let your glory be over all the earth. Psalm 57:7, 9-11

May God be gracious to us and bless us and make his face shine on us— so that your ways may be known on earth, your salvation among all nations. May the peoples praise you, God; may all the peoples praise you. May the nations be glad and sing for joy, for you rule the peoples with equity and guide the nations of the earth. May the peoples praise you, God; may all the peoples praise you. Psalm 67:1-5

Sing to the LORD a new song, for he has done marvelous things; his right hand and his holy arm have worked salvation for him. The LORD has made his salvation known and revealed his righteousness to the nations. [A]ll the ends of the earth have seen the salvation of our God. Shout for joy to the LORD, all the earth, burst into jubilant song with music; make music to the LORD with the harp, with the harp and the sound of singing, with trumpets and the blast of the ram’s horn—shout for joy before the LORD, the King. Psalm 98:1-6*

My heart, O God, is steadfast; I will sing and make music with all my soul. I will praise you, LORD, among the nations; I will sing of you among the peoples. For great is your love, higher than the heavens; your faithfulness reaches to the skies. Be exalted, O God, above the heavens; let your glory be over all the earth. Psalm 108:1, 3-5

I will exalt you, my God the King; I will praise your name for ever and ever. Every day I will praise you and extol your name for ever and ever. Great is the LORD and most worthy of praise; his greatness no one can fathom. 10 All your works praise you, LORD; your faithful people extol you. 11 They tell of the glory of your kingdom and speak of your might, 12 so that all people may know of your mighty acts and the glorious splendor of your kingdom. 13 Your kingdom is an everlasting kingdom, and your dominion endures through all generations. 21 My mouth will speak in praise of the LORD. Let every creature praise his holy name for ever and ever. Psalm 145:1-3, 10-13a, 21*

Other Calls to Worship to Consider Using

I will give thanks to you, LORD, with all my heart; I will tell of all your wonderful deeds. I will be glad and rejoice in you; I will sing the praises of your name, O Most High. 10 Those who know your name trust in you, for you, LORD, have never forsaken those who seek you. 11 Sing the praises of the LORD . . . ; proclaim among the nations what he has done. Psalm 9:1-2, 10-11*

Clap your hands, all you nations; shout to God with cries of joy. For the LORD Most High is awesome, the great King over all the earth. God has ascended amid shouts of joy, the LORD amid the sounding of trumpets. Sing praises to God, sing praises; sing praises to our King, sing praises. For God is the King of all the earth; sing to him a psalm of praise. Psalm 47:1-2, 5-7

Among the gods there is none like you, Lord; no deeds can compare with yours. All the nations you have made will come and worship before you, Lord; they will bring glory to your name. 10 For you are great and do marvelous deeds; you alone are God. 12 I will praise you, Lord my God, with all my heart; I will glorify your name forever. 13 For great is your love toward me; . . . . Psalm 86:8-10, 12-13*

 

The Best Prayers of Adoration and Their Introductions
for a Missions Emphasis Sunday

3 [T]he song of the Lamb: “Great and marvelous are your deeds, Lord God Almighty. Just and true are your ways, King of the ages. 4 Who will not fear you, O Lord, and bring glory to your name? For you alone are holy. All nations will come and worship before you, for your righteous acts have been revealed.” Revelation 15:3-4*

Other Prayers of Adoration and Their Introductions to Consider Using

12 God is my King from long ago; he brings salvation on the earth. Psalm 74:12*

 

The Best Prayers and Acclamations of Praise to God and Their Introductions for a Missions Emphasis Sunday

47 “The LORD lives! Praise be to my Rock! Exalted be my God, the Rock, my Savior! 50 Therefore I will praise you, LORD, among the nations; I will sing the praises of your name.” 2 Samuel 22:47, 50

46 The LORD lives! Praise be to my Rock! Exalted be God my Savior! 49 Therefore I will praise you, LORD, among the nations; I will sing the praises of your name. Psalm 18:46, 49

I will praise you, Lord, among the nations; I will sing of you among the peoples. 10 For great is your love, reaching to the heavens; your faithfulness reaches to the skies. 11 Be exalted, O God, above the heavens; let your glory be over all the earth. Psalm 57:9-11

I will praise you, LORD, among the nations; I will sing of you among the peoples. For great is your love, higher than the heavens; your faithfulness reaches to the skies. Be exalted, O God, above the heavens; let your glory be over all the earth. Psalm 108:3-5

Other Prayers and Acclamations of Praise to God and Their
Introductions to Consider Using

18 Praise be to the LORD God, . . . , who alone does marvelous deeds. 19 Praise be to his glorious name forever; may the whole earth be filled with his glory. Amen and Amen. Psalm 72:18-19*

Among the gods there is none like you, Lord; no deeds can compare with yours. All the nations you have made will come and worship before you, Lord; they will bring glory to your name. 10 For you are great and do marvelous deeds; you alone are God. Psalm 86:8-10

“Give praise to the LORD, proclaim his name; make known among the nations what he has done, and proclaim that his name is exalted.” Isaiah 12:4*

 

The Best Introductions to Singing for a Missions Emphasis Sunday

Sing to him, sing praise to him; tell of all his wonderful acts. 10 Glory in his holy name; let the hearts of those who seek the LORD rejoice. 23 Sing to the LORD, all the earth; proclaim his salvation day after day. 24 Declare his glory among the nations, his marvelous deeds among all peoples. 25 For great is the LORD and most worthy of praise; . . . . 1 Chronicles 16:9-10, 23-25*

My heart, O God, is steadfast, my heart is steadfast; I will sing and make music. I will praise you, Lord, among the nations; I will sing of you among the peoples. 10 For great is your love, reaching to the heavens; your faithfulness reaches to the skies. 11 Be exalted, O God, above the heavens; let your glory be over all the earth. Psalm 57:7, 9-11

Sing to the LORD a new song; sing to the LORD, all the earth. Sing to the LORD, praise his name; proclaim his salvation day after day. Declare his glory among the nations, his marvelous deeds among all peoples. For great is the LORD and most worthy of praise; . . . . Psalm 96:1-4*

My heart, O God, is steadfast; I will sing and make music with all my soul. I will praise you, LORD, among the nations; I will sing of you among the peoples. For great is your love, higher than the heavens; your faithfulness reaches to the skies. Be exalted, O God, above the heavens; let your glory be over all the earth. Psalm 108:1, 3-5

Other Introductions to Singing to Consider Using

I will give thanks to you, LORD, with all my heart; I will tell of all your wonderful deeds. I will be glad and rejoice in you; I will sing the praises of your name, O Most High. 11 Sing the praises of the LORD . . . ; proclaim among the nations what he has done. Psalm 9:1-2, 11*

Give praise to the LORD, proclaim his name; make known among the nations what he has done. Sing to him, sing praise to him; tell of all his wonderful acts. Glory in his holy name; let the hearts of those who seek the LORD rejoice. Psalm 105:1-3

“Sing to the LORD, for he has done glorious things; let this be known to all the world. Shout aloud and sing for joy, . . . , for great is the Holy One . . . among you.” Isaiah 12:5-6*

They held harps given them by God and sang the song of God’s servant Moses and of the Lamb: “Great and marvelous are your deeds, Lord God Almighty. Just and true are your ways, King of the nations. Who will not fear you, Lord, and bring glory to your name? For you alone are holy. All nations will come and worship before you, for your righteous acts have been revealed.” Revelation 15:2b-4*

 

The Best Confessions of Sin and Their Introductions
for a Missions Emphasis Sunday

18 We were with child, we writhed in labor, but we gave birth to wind. We have not brought salvation to the earth, and the people of the world have not come to life. Isaiah 26:18

31 “When the Son of Man comes in his glory, and all the angels with him, he will sit on his glorious throne. 32 All the nations will be gathered before him, and he will separate the people one from another as a shepherd separates the sheep from the goats. 33 He will put the sheep on his right and the goats on his left. 41 Then he will say to those on his left, ‘Depart from me, you who are cursed, into the eternal fire prepared for the devil and his angels. 42 For I was hungry and you gave me nothing to eat, I was thirsty and you gave me nothing to drink, 43 I was a stranger and you did not invite me in, I needed clothes and you did not clothe me, I was sick and in prison and you did not look after me.’ 44 They also will answer, ‘Lord, when did we see you hungry or thirsty or a stranger or needing clothes or sick or in prison, and did not help you?’ 45 He will reply, ‘Truly I tell you, whatever you did not do for one of the least of these, you did not do for me.’ 46 Then they will go away to eternal punishment, but the righteous to eternal life.” Matthew 25:31-33, 41-46

Other Confessions of Sin and Their Introductions to Consider Using

32 “Whoever acknowledges me before others, I will also acknowledge before my Father in heaven. 33 But whoever disowns me before others, I will disown before my Father in heaven.” Matthew 10:32-33

When Simon Peter saw this, he fell at Jesus’ knees and said, “Go away from me, Lord; I am a sinful man!” 10 Then Jesus said to Simon, “Don’t be afraid; from now on you will fish for people.” 11 So they pulled their boats up on shore, left everything and followed him. Luke 5:8, 10b-11*

“I tell you, whoever publicly acknowledges me before others, the Son of Man will also acknowledge before the angels of God. But whoever disowns me before others will be disowned before the angels of God.” Luke 12:8-9

If you really keep the royal law found in Scripture, “Love your neighbor as yourself,” you are doing right. But if you show favoritism, you sin and are convicted by the law as lawbreakers. James 2:8-9

 

The Best Assurances of Pardon, Declarations of God’s Forgiveness, and Absolutions for a Missions Emphasis Sunday

21 “[T]here is no God apart from me, a righteous God and a Savior; there is none but me. 22 “Turn to me and be saved, all you ends of the earth; for I am God, and there is no other.” Isaiah 45:21d-22*

16 For God so loved the world that he gave his one and only Son, that whoever believes in him shall not perish but have eternal life. 17 For God did not send his Son into the world to condemn the world, but to save the world through him. John 3:16-17

12 “Salvation is found in no one else [but Jesus], for there is no other name under heaven given to mankind by which we must be saved.” Acts 4:12

God our Savior . . . wants all people to be saved and to come to a knowledge of the truth. For there is one God and one mediator between God and mankind, the man Christ Jesus, who gave himself as a ransom for all people. 1 Timothy 2:3-6a*

1 My dear children, I write this to you so that you will not sin. But if anybody does sin, we have an advocate with the Father—Jesus Christ, the Righteous One. He is the atoning sacrifice for our sins, and not only for ours but also for the sins of the whole world. 1 John 2:1-2

14 And we have seen and testify that the Father has sent his Son to be the Savior of the world. 15 If anyone acknowledges that Jesus is the Son of God, God lives in them and they in God. 1 John 4:14-15

Then I saw a Lamb, looking as if it had been slain, standing at the center of the throne, encircled by the four living creatures and the elders. And they sang a new song, saying: “You are worthy . . . , because you were slain, and with your blood you purchased for God persons from every tribe and language and people and nation. 10 You have made them to be a kingdom and priests to serve our God, and they will reign on the earth.” Revelation 5:6a, 9-10*

Other Assurances of Pardon, Declarations of God’s
Forgiveness, and Absolutions to Consider Using

32 “[E]veryone who calls on the name of the LORD will be saved; . . . .” Joel 2:32*

29 The next day John saw Jesus coming toward him and said, “Look, the Lamb of God, who takes away the sin of the world!” John 1:29

21 “ ‘And everyone who calls on the name of the Lord will be saved.’ ” Acts 2:21

This is a trustworthy saying that deserves full acceptance. 10 That is why we labor and strive, because we have put our hope in the living God, who is the Savior of all people, and especially of those who believe. 1 Timothy 4:9-10

 

The Best Scriptures on Fellowship, Loving One Another, and Passing
God’s Peace
for a Missions Emphasis Sunday

21 Then they returned to Lystra, Iconium and Antioch, 22 strengthening the disciples and encouraging them to remain true to the faith. Acts 14:21b-22a*

23 [S]since I have been longing for many years to visit you, 24 I plan to do so when I go to Spain. I hope to see you while passing through and to have you assist me on my journey there, after I have enjoyed your company for a while. Romans 15:23-24*

Just as a nursing mother cares for her children, so we cared for you. Because we loved you so much, we were delighted to share with you not only the gospel of God but our lives as well. 1 Thessalonians 2:7b-8*

We sent Timothy, who is our brother and co-worker in God’s service in spreading the gospel of Christ, to strengthen and encourage you in your faith, 1 Thessalonians 3:2

It was for the sake of the Name that they went out, receiving no help from the pagans. We ought therefore to show hospitality to such people so that we may work together for the truth. 3 John 7-8

Other Scriptures on Fellowship, Loving One Another,
and Passing God’s Peace to Consider Using

26 When he came to Jerusalem, he tried to join the disciples, but they were all afraid of him, not believing that he really was a disciple. 27 But Barnabas took him and brought him to the apostles. He told them how Saul on his journey had seen the Lord and that the Lord had spoken to him, and how in Damascus he had preached fearlessly in the name of Jesus. 28 So Saul stayed with them and moved about freely in Jerusalem, speaking boldly in the name of the Lord. Acts 9:26-28

12 I have much to write to you, but I do not want to use paper and ink. Instead, I hope to visit you and talk with you face to face, so that our joy may be complete. 2 John 12

 

The Best Introductions to Scripture Readings for a
Missions Emphasis Sunday

10 “Hear the word of the LORD, you nations; proclaim it in distant coastlands: . . . .” Jeremiah 31:10*

Many nations will come and say, “Come, let us go up to the mountain of the LORD, to the temple of the God of Jacob. He will teach us his ways, so that we may walk in his paths.” Micah 4:2ab*

42 As Paul and Barnabas were leaving the synagogue, the people invited them to speak further about these things on the next Sabbath. 44 On the next Sabbath almost the whole city gathered to hear the word of the Lord. Acts 13:42-44

Other Introductions to Scripture Readings to Consider Using

1 The apostles and the believers throughout Judea heard that the Gentiles also had received the word of God. Acts 11:1

11 So Paul stayed in Corinth for a year and a half, teaching them the word of God. Acts 18:11

 

The Best Introductions Before Offerings for a Missions Emphasis Sunday

17 Whoever is kind to the poor lends to the LORD, and he will reward them for what they have done. Proverbs 19:17

11 “My name will be great among the nations, from where the sun rises to where it sets. In every place . . . pure offerings will be brought to me, because my name will be great among the nations,” says the LORD Almighty. Malachi 1:11*

32 “Do not be afraid, little flock, for your Father has been pleased to give you the kingdom. 33 Sell your possessions and give to the poor. Provide purses for yourselves that will not wear out, a treasure in heaven that will never fail, where no thief comes near and no moth destroys. 34 For where your treasure is, there your heart will be also.” Luke 12:32-34

“I tell you, use worldly wealth to gain friends for yourselves, so that when it is gone, you will be welcomed into eternal dwellings.” Luke 16:9

Remember this: Whoever sows sparingly will also reap sparingly, and whoever sows generously will also reap generously. Each of you should give what you have decided in your heart to give, not reluctantly or under compulsion, for God loves a cheerful giver. And God is able to bless you abundantly, so that in all things at all times, having all that you need, you will abound in every good work. 11 You will be enriched in every way so that you can be generous on every occasion, and . . . your generosity will result in thanksgiving to God. 12 This service that you perform is not only supplying the needs of the Lord’s people but is also overflowing in many expressions of thanks to God. 13 Because of the service by which you have proved yourselves, others will praise God for the obedience that accompanies your confession of the gospel of Christ, and for your generosity in sharing with them and with everyone else. And in their prayers for you their hearts will go out to you, because of the surpassing grace God has given you. 15 Thanks be to God for his indescribable gift! 2 Corinthians 9:6-8, 11-15*

Other Introductions Before Offerings to Consider Using

14 To the LORD your God belong the heavens, even the highest heavens, the earth and everything in it. Deuteronomy 10:14

10 David praised the LORD in the presence of the whole assembly, saying, “Praise be to you, LORD, the God . . . from everlasting to everlasting. 11 Yours, LORD, is the greatness and the power and the glory and the majesty and the splendor, for everything in heaven and earth is yours. Yours, LORD, is the kingdom; you are exalted as head over all. 12 Wealth and honor come from you; you are the ruler of all things. In your hands are strength and power to exalt and give strength to all. 13 Now, our God, we give you thanks, and praise your glorious name. 14 But who am I, and who are my people, that we should be able to give as generously as this? Everything comes from you, and we have given you only what comes from your hand.” 1 Chronicles 29:10-14*

21 It is a sin to despise one’s neighbor, but blessed is the one who is kind to the needy. Proverbs 14:21

16 Just then a man came up to Jesus and asked, “Teacher, what good thing must I do to get eternal life?” 17 “Why do you ask me about what is good?” Jesus replied. “There is only One who is good. If you want to enter life, keep the commandments.” 18 “Which ones?” he inquired. Jesus replied, “ ‘You shall not murder, you shall not commit adultery, you shall not steal, you shall not give false testimony, 19 honor your father and mother,’ and ‘love your neighbor as yourself.’ ” 20 “All these I have kept,” the young man said. “What do I still lack?” 21 Jesus answered, “If you want to be perfect, go, sell your possessions and give to the poor, and you will have treasure in heaven. Then come, follow me.” Matthew 19:16-21

17 As Jesus started on his way, a man ran up to him and fell on his knees before him. “Good teacher,” he asked, “what must I do to inherit eternal life?” 18 “Why do you call me good?” Jesus answered. “No one is good—except God alone. 19 You know the commandments: ‘You shall not murder, you shall not commit adultery, you shall not steal, you shall not give false testimony, you shall not defraud, honor your father and mother.’” 20 “Teacher,” he declared, “all these I have kept since I was a boy.” 21 Jesus looked at him and loved him. “One thing you lack,” he said. “Go, sell everything you have and give to the poor, and you will have treasure in heaven. Then come, follow me.” Mark 10:17-21

18 A certain ruler asked him, “Good teacher, what must I do to inherit eternal life?” 19 “Why do you call me good?” Jesus answered. “No one is good—except God alone. 20 You know the commandments: ‘You shall not commit adultery, you shall not murder, you shall not steal, you shall not give false testimony, honor your father and mother.’ ” 21 “All these I have kept since I was a boy,” he said. 22 When Jesus heard this, he said to him, “You still lack one thing. Sell everything you have and give to the poor, and you will have treasure in heaven. Then come, follow me.” Luke 18:18-22

26 “The earth is the Lord’s, and everything in it.” 1 Corinthians 10:26*

 

The Best Prayers of Dedication and Their Introductions
for a Missions Emphasis Sunday

Then I heard the voice of the LORD saying, “Whom shall I send? And who will go for us?” And I said, “Here am I. Send me!” Isaiah 6:8

How beautiful on the mountains are the feet of those who bring good news, who proclaim peace, who bring good tidings, who proclaim salvation, who say . . . , “Your God reigns!” Isaiah 52:7*

18 Then Jesus came to them and said, “All authority in heaven and on earth has been given to me. 19 Therefore go and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit, 20 and teaching them to obey everything I have commanded you. And surely I am with you always, to the very end of the age.” Matthew 28:18-20

47 For this is what the Lord has commanded us: “ ‘I have made you a light for the Gentiles, that you may bring salvation to the ends of the earth.’ ” Acts 13:47

14 How, then, can they call on the one they have not believed in? And how can they believe in the one of whom they have not heard? And how can they hear without someone preaching to them? 15 And how can anyone preach unless they are sent? As it is written: “How beautiful are the feet of those who bring good news!” Romans 10:14-15

17 [I]f anyone is in Christ, the new creation has come: The old has gone, the new is here! 18 All this is from God, who reconciled us to himself through Christ and gave us the ministry of reconciliation: 19 that God was reconciling the world to himself in Christ, not counting people’s sins against them. And he has committed to us the message of reconciliation. 20 We are therefore Christ’s ambassadors, as though God were making his appeal through us. 2 Corinthians 5:17-20a*

The Lord’s message rang out from you . . . —your faith in God has become known everywhere. 1 Thessalonians 1:8a*

Other Prayers of Dedication and Their Introductions to Consider Using

35 “Don’t you have a saying, ‘It’s still four months until harvest’? I tell you, open your eyes and look at the fields! They are ripe for harvest.” John 4:35

17 “ ‘I [Jesus] am sending you to them 18 to open their eyes and turn them from darkness to light, and from the power of Satan to God, so that they may receive forgiveness of sins and a place among those who are sanctified by faith in me.’ ” Acts 26:17b-18*

[D]o not be ashamed of the testimony about our Lord . . . . Rather, join with me in suffering for the gospel, by the power of God. He has saved us and called us to a holy life—not because of anything we have done but because of his own purpose and grace. 2 Timothy 1:8-9a*

 

The Best Prayers of Thanksgiving and Their
Introductions for a Missions Emphasis Sunday

Give praise to the LORD, proclaim his name; make known among the nations what he has done. Sing to him, sing praise to him; tell of all his wonderful acts. 10 Glory in his holy name; let the hearts of those who seek the LORD rejoice. 1 Chronicles 16:8-10

Give praise to the LORD, proclaim his name; make known among the nations what he has done. Psalm 105:1

“Give praise to the LORD, proclaim his name; make known among the nations what he has done, and proclaim that his name is exalted.” Isaiah 12:4*

First, I thank my God through Jesus Christ for all of you, because your faith is being reported all over the world. Romans 1:8

14 [T]hanks be to God, who always leads us as captives in Christ’s triumphal procession and uses us to spread the aroma of the knowledge of him everywhere. 2 Corinthians 2:14*

After this I looked, and there before me was a great multitude that no one could count, from every nation, tribe, people and language, standing before the throne and before the Lamb. They were wearing white robes and were holding palm branches in their hands. 10 And they cried out in a loud voice: “Salvation belongs to our God, who sits on the throne, and to the Lamb.” Revelation 7:9-10

Other Prayers of Thanksgiving and Their Introductions to Consider Using

15 [E]ver since I heard about your faith in the Lord Jesus and your love for all God’s people, 16 I have not stopped giving thanks for you, remembering you in my prayers. Ephesians 1:15-16*

We always thank God, the Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, when we pray for you, because we have heard of your faith in Christ Jesus and of the love you have for all God’s people— Colossians 1:3-4

 

The Best Prayers of Requests and Their Introductions
for a Missions Emphasis Sunday

“Ask me, and I will make the nations your inheritance, the ends of the earth your possession.” Psalm 2:8

May God be gracious to us and bless us and make his face shine on us—so that your ways may be known on earth, your salvation among all nations. Psalm 67:1-2

37 Then he said to his disciples, “The harvest is plentiful but the workers are few. 38 Ask the Lord of the harvest, therefore, to send out workers into his harvest field.” Matthew 9:37-38

17 And as he taught them, he [Jesus] said, “Is it not written: ‘My house will be called a house of prayer for all nations’?” Mark 11:17a*

He told them, “The harvest is plentiful, but the workers are few. Ask the Lord of the harvest, therefore, to send out workers into his harvest field.” Luke 10:2

1 [P]ray for us that the message of the Lord may spread rapidly and be honored, just as it was with you. 2 Thessalonians 3:1*

Other Prayers of Requests and Their Introductions to Consider Using

17 But as for me, I am poor and needy; may the Lord think of me. You are my help and my deliverer; you are my God, do not delay. Psalm 40:17

Hasten, O God, to save me; come quickly, LORD, to help me. I am poor and needy; come quickly to me, O God. You are my help and my deliverer; LORD, do not delay. Psalm 70:1, 5*

 

The Best Prayers of Requests and Thanksgiving and Their Introductions for a Missions Emphasis Sunday

I will praise you, LORD, among the nations; I will sing of you among the peoples. For great is your love, higher than the heavens; your faithfulness reaches to the skies. Be exalted, O God, above the heavens; let your glory be over all the earth. Save us and help us with your right hand, that those you love may be delivered. Psalm 108:3-6

“[M]y house will be called a house of prayer for all nations.” Isaiah 56:7b*

17 And as he [Jesus] taught them, he said, “Is it not written: ‘My house will be called a house of prayer for all nations’? ” Mark 11:17a*

1 I urge, then, first of all, that petitions, prayers, intercession and thanksgiving be made for all people— 1 Timothy 2:1

Other Prayers of Requests and Thanksgiving and Their
Introductions to Consider Using

Have mercy on me, my God, have mercy on me, for in you I take refuge. I will take refuge in the shadow of your wings . . . . I cry out to God Most High, to God, who vindicates me. He sends from heaven and saves me, . . . God sends forth his love and his faithfulness. I will praise you, LORD, among the nations; I will sing of you among the peoples. 10 For great is your love, reaching to the heavens; your faithfulness reaches to the skies. 11 Be exalted, O God, above the heavens; let your glory be over all the earth. Psalm 57:1-3, 9-11*

1 At Caesarea there was a man named Cornelius, a centurion in what was known as the Italian Regiment. He and all his family were devout and God-fearing; he gave generously to those in need and prayed to God regularly. One day at about three in the afternoon he had a vision. He distinctly saw an angel of God, who came to him and said, “Cornelius!” Cornelius stared at him in fear. “What is it, Lord?” he asked. The angel answered, “Your prayers and gifts to the poor have come up as a memorial offering before God. Now send men to Joppa to bring back a man named Simon who is called Peter. He is staying with Simon the tanner, whose house is by the sea.” Acts 10:1-6

30 Cornelius answered: “Three days ago I was in my house praying at this hour, at three in the afternoon. Suddenly a man in shining clothes stood before me 31 and said, ‘Cornelius, God has heard your prayer and remembered your gifts to the poor. 32 Send to Joppa for Simon who is called Peter. He is a guest in the home of Simon the tanner, who lives by the sea.’ 33 So I sent for you immediately, and it was good of you to come. Now we are all here in the presence of God to listen to everything the Lord has commanded you to tell us.” Acts 10:30-33

 

The Best Affirmations, Encouragements, and Promises of God for
a Missions Emphasis Sunday

The LORD has made his salvation known and revealed his righteousness to the nations. He has remembered his love and his faithfulness . . . ; all the ends of the earth have seen the salvation of our God. Psalm 98:2-3*

11 “I say to you that many will come from the east and the west, and will take their places at the feast with Abraham, Isaac and Jacob in the kingdom of heaven.” Matthew 8:11

21 Again Jesus said, “Peace be with you! As the Father has sent me, I am sending you.” John 20:21

“But you will receive power when the Holy Spirit comes on you; and you will be my witnesses in Jerusalem, and in all Judea and Samaria, and to the ends of the earth.” Acts 1:8

14 [T]hanks be to God, who always leads us as captives in Christ’s triumphal procession and uses us to spread the aroma of the knowledge of him everywhere. 2 Corinthians 2:14*

Other Affirmations, Encouragements, and Promises of God to Consider Using

“And foreigners who bind themselves to the LORD to minister to him, to love the name of the LORD, and to be his servants, all who keep the Sabbath without desecrating it and who hold fast to my covenant—these I will bring to my holy mountain and give them joy in my house of prayer. Their burnt offerings and sacrifices will be accepted on my altar; for my house will be called a house of prayer for all nations.” Isaiah 56:6-7

16 For God so loved the world that he gave his one and only Son, that whoever believes in him shall not perish but have eternal life. 17 For God did not send his Son into the world to condemn the world, but to save the world through him. John 3:16-17

 

The Best Exhortations for a Missions Emphasis Sunday

How beautiful on the mountains are the feet of those who bring good news, who proclaim peace, who bring good tidings, who proclaim salvation, who say . . . , “Your God reigns!” Isaiah 52:7*

18 Then Jesus came to them and said, “All authority in heaven and on earth has been given to me. 19 Therefore go and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit, 20 and teaching them to obey everything I have commanded you. And surely I am with you always, to the very end of the age.” Matthew 28:18-20

15 He said to them, “Go into all the world and preach the gospel to all creation.”  Mark 16:15

21 Again Jesus said, “Peace be with you! As the Father has sent me, I am sending you.” John 20:21

“[Y]ou will receive power when the Holy Spirit comes on you; and you will be my witnesses . . . to the ends of the earth.” Acts 1:8*

47 [T]his is what the Lord has commanded us: “ ‘I have made you a light . . . , that you may bring salvation to the ends of the earth.’ ” Acts 13:47*

15 “ ‘You will be his witness to all people of what you have seen and heard.’ ” Acts 22:15

17 “ ‘I am sending you to them 18 to open their eyes and turn them from darkness to light, and from the power of Satan to God, so that they may receive forgiveness of sins and a place among those who are sanctified by faith in me.’ ” Acts 26:17b-18*

Other Exhortations to Consider Using

11 Rescue those being led away to death; hold back those staggering toward slaughter. 12 If you say, “But we knew nothing about this,” does not he who weighs the heart perceive it? Does not he who guards your life know it? Will he not repay everyone according to what they have done? Proverbs 24:11-12

35 “I tell you, open your eyes and look at the fields! They are ripe for harvest. 36 Even now the one who reaps draws a wage and harvests a crop for eternal life, so that the sower and the reaper may be glad together.” John 4:35b-36*

 

The Best Ascriptions and Self-Declarations by God for
a Missions Emphasis Sunday

I will praise you, LORD, among the nations; I will sing of you among the peoples. 10 For great is your love, reaching to the heavens; your faithfulness reaches to the skies. 11 Be exalted, O God, above the heavens; let your glory be over all the earth. Psalm 57:9-11

Declare his glory among the nations, his marvelous deeds among all peoples. For great is the LORD and most worthy of praise; . . . . Psalm 96:3-4*

11 “My name will be great among the nations, from where the sun rises to where it sets. [M]y name will be great among the nations,” says the LORD Almighty. Malachi 1:11*

Other Ascriptions and Self-Declarations by God to Consider Using

15 LORD, . . . God . . . enthroned between the cherubim, you alone are God over all the kingdoms of the earth.” 2 Kings 19:15a*

Declare his glory among the nations, his marvelous deeds among all peoples. For great is the LORD and most worthy of praise; . . . . Splendor and majesty are before him; strength and glory are in his sanctuary. Ascribe to the LORD, all you families of nations, ascribe to the LORD glory and strength. Ascribe to the LORD the glory due his name; . . . . Worship the LORD in the splendor of his holiness; tremble before him, all the earth. Psalm 96:3-4, 6-9*

 

The Best Benedictions and Blessings for a Missions Emphasis Sunday

29 “Sovereign Lord, as you have promised, you may now dismiss your servant in peace. 30 For my eyes have seen your salvation, 31 which you have prepared in the sight of all nations: 32 a light for revelation to the Gentiles, and the glory of your people Israel.” Luke 2:29-32

Other Benedictions and Blessings to Consider Using

37 “Go, and the LORD be with you.” 1 Samuel 17:37b*

16 May our Lord Jesus Christ himself and God our Father, who loved us and by his grace gave us eternal encouragement and good hope, 17 encourage your hearts and strengthen you in every good deed and word. 2 Thessalonians 2:16-17

20 Now may the God of peace, who through the blood of the eternal covenant brought back from the dead our Lord Jesus, that great Shepherd of the sheep, 21 equip you with everything good for doing his will, and may he work in us what is pleasing to him, through Jesus Christ, to whom be glory for ever and ever. Amen. Hebrews 13:20–21

4 Grace and peace to you from him who is, and who was, and who is to come . . . , and from Jesus Christ, who is the faithful witness, the firstborn from the dead, and the ruler of the kings of the earth. Revelation 1:4-5a*