How God’s Mission Drives Our Fundraising
Fueled by the Great Commission: How God’s Mission Drives Our Fundraising
“Go and make disciples of all nations... And surely I am with you always, to the very end of the age.”
—Matthew 28:18-20
Fundraising in ministry isn't just about gathering financial resources; it's about advancing God's mission. At the heart of all our efforts lies the Great Commission, a command from Jesus to “go and make disciples of all nations.” This command fuels everything we do, especially when it comes to raising support. We aren't simply asking for money—we're inviting others to partner with us in God's redemptive work.
When we shift our focus to the bigger picture of God's kingdom, it transforms our approach to fundraising. The Great Commission becomes both the mission and the source of strength, motivating us to trust in God's power and presence as we go out boldly to invite others into His work.
The Foundation: The Great Commission
In Matthew 28:18-20, Jesus commissions His disciples to go into all the world, making disciples and baptizing them. His words carry two powerful promises:
All authority has been given to Him.
He will be with us always.
For anyone involved in ministry, these promises provide assurance and confidence. Jesus’ authority means that nothing is outside His control, and His constant presence means we never act alone.
Connecting the Dots: Fundraising and the Mission
Whether you’re new to fundraising or have been doing it for years, this passage speaks directly to you. Jesus’ words remind us that our efforts are part of a much larger plan. As missionaries or support-raisers, we're not just asking for help; we’re inviting others into the transformative mission of disciple-making. When we are fueled by the Great Commission, our fundraising becomes more than a task—it becomes a form of worship and obedience to God.
Three Key Lessons from the Great Commission for Fundraising
1. Fundraise Boldly
When Jesus declares that all authority in heaven and on earth has been given to Him, He reminds us that He reigns over everything—including our fundraising efforts. This authority gives us confidence to approach supporters with boldness, knowing that we’re operating under His power.
Too often, fear holds us back from making big asks. But as we see in the Bible and in real-life stories, bold requests can lead to incredible provision. Just like a missionary who once asked for a million-dollar donation and received it, we can approach our supporters with faith that God will provide through them. Our boldness reflects our belief in God's sovereignty, not just in our lives but also in the expansion of His kingdom.
2. Fundraise Past Your Comfort Zone
Jesus didn’t just send His disciples to familiar places—He sent them to "all nations." This command challenged a group of young, predominantly Jewish disciples to go beyond their cultural and social boundaries. Likewise, we are called to go beyond the safe and familiar when it comes to fundraising.
It's easy to limit our asks to people within our comfort zone—our friends, family, or those who we believe are likely to give. But the Great Commission calls us to expand our horizons, reaching out to those we might not normally consider. Just as the disciples were called to make disciples of all nations, we are called to invite everyone into the mission, regardless of how comfortable or uncomfortable it may feel.
3. Fundraise as a Ministry Opportunity
Fundraising is not just about meeting financial goals; it’s an opportunity to share the gospel. When Jesus sent His disciples out, He didn’t just tell them to go—He instructed them to make disciples, baptize, and teach. Fundraising can and should involve these same elements. Each conversation is a chance to share what God is doing in your life and ministry, and to invite others into the story.
Many times, people come away from fundraising meetings feeling spiritually enriched because they’ve heard the gospel, not just a request for money. This is the beauty of support raising—it’s a ministry in itself, offering opportunities to proclaim the good news and invite others to experience the joy of partnering with God in His mission.
Real-Life Example
A few years ago, I attended a conference where a speaker, Sam Metcalf, shared a story about boldly asking for support. He approached a potential donor with a million-dollar request, something he had never done before. To his surprise, the person said yes. This bold ask allowed the ministry to grow in ways he hadn’t imagined. The story serves as a powerful reminder that God can and will provide when we step out in faith, trusting in His authority and presence.
Reflection Questions
Can you share a recent experience where you boldly asked for financial support? What was the outcome, and how did it impact your confidence in fundraising?
What are some specific areas in fundraising where you feel challenged to step outside your comfort zone? How can we help each other move out in faith?
How can we cultivate a mindset of viewing fundraising conversations as opportunities to share the good news? What role does prayer play in this?
What is one specific action you can commit to this week in your fundraising efforts that aligns with the Great Commission? How can you hold yourself accountable to follow through?
Conclusion
The Great Commission is not just a call for the early disciples—it is a mandate for all believers today. As we step out in faith, raising support for the mission God has given us, we can do so with boldness, trusting in His authority and presence. Fundraising isn’t merely about dollars and cents; it’s about advancing God’s kingdom, making disciples, and spreading the good news. So let us go out boldly, beyond our comfort zones, and embrace every opportunity to share the life-changing message of Christ with those around us.
The harvest is plentiful. Let's be fueled by the Great Commission as we labor together in His mission.
