The Bible says, “Go and make disciples of all nations…”
And go we did. For hundreds of years, the gospel has spread through the boldness and generosity of global missions efforts—through those who uprooted their lives and committed to long-term service in distant places.

The rest of the verse matters just as much:
“…baptizing them... and teaching them to obey everything I have commanded you.”

There is growing evidence that national Christians—those who already know the local language, customs, and context—are leading the next wave in global discipleship. They are uniquely positioned to fulfill the Great Commission more effectively, more rapidly, and more sustainably, there and now.

Should we apply marketplace innovation to missions strategy?

Jesus often used parables and plain speech to teach responsible stewardship. He called his followers to count the cost, to use what they’ve been given wisely, and to invest in what multiplies.

When we consider global missions today, the same principle applies:
If it's possible to make more disciples by investing in strategies that equip national leaders—those already living among the unreached—then failing to shift our approach may be poor stewardship.

Can we trust national church planters?

Yes. In fact, the Apostle Paul modeled this trust repeatedly. As the first missionary, he empowered and commended many local believers to the work of discipleship—and names them in his letters.

• Epaphras (Colossians 1:7)

• Nympha (Colossians 4:15)

• Onesimus (Colossians 4:9)

These were not foreigners sent in—they were locals entrusted with the message, and they carried it with faithfulness and fruitfulness.

The better question might be: If the work of missions is to make disciples, how can we not trust the disciples who have already been made?

What about those who are called to go?

There is no question that some are called by Christ to go to the nations. But what many don’t realize is that “the nations” are already here.

Cities across the United States are now home to people from all over the world—many from unreached people groups. Your neighborhood, your workplace, your city could be a strategic missions field.

A calling to missions is a calling to all people groups, and God has positioned America as a vital part of His global plan.

It’s time to refocus missions mobilization for the greatest return on kingdom investment.

This isn’t about giving less. It’s about giving smarter.
It’s not about minimizing anyone’s calling—it’s about maximizing the impact of every missions dollar, every act of obedience, and every opportunity to disciple the nations.

Let's reach the unreached faster, there and now.