Missions and Population

The population explosion – we hear a lot about it and the implications are often discussed. What is not asked as often however is the affect this population growth will have on the fulfillment of the mission of the church.

First, the numbers: the population of the world reached the 1 billion level in the early 1800’s. It took millennia for humanity to reach that number. It only took one century for that number to double to 2 billion (around 1930). It only took 30 more years for the count to reach 3 billion (around 1960). This rapid growth in the 20^th century occurred despite the enormous loss of life in two world wars, a major flu pandemic, and a century of genocide around the world.

The population doubled to 6 billion around the year 2000. At current rates, the world population is projected to reach the 12 billion level sometime around mid-century. Of course, cataclysmic world events could retard the growth rate. On the other hand, the horrific events of the 20^th century did not deter the growth of that century significantly.

The church of Jesus Christ has been commanded to proclaim the gospel to the whole world. The enormity of that task grows exponentially, daily.

The church must begin to ask serious questions. Do we have adequate plans for missions and evangelism to reach 12 billion people? Are we committing enough resources, both financial and human, towards the task? Are we promoting the idea of a calling to missions among the youth of the church?

Globalization and new technologies create new challenges for the church but also new opportunities. Are we seizing the opportunities? How will we employ all of this to fulfill our mission?

It is not just evangelism. We are called to feed the hungry and clothe the poor. As James wrote, true religion is caring for the widows and orphans. Amos condemned ancient Israel for failure to care for the “have-nots.” How will the church address the human need that 12 billion people will represent?

The challenge is daunting. The time to pray, plan, and prepare is now. When faced with the challenge, we must remember that we follow the Lord who multiplied the loaves and fishes. However, we must turn over our loaves and fishes to him instead of devoting them to building our own little church kingdoms, promises of personal prosperity, and political patronage (both liberal and conservative).