Biblical Missions: Principles, Priorities, and Practices

Missionaries inevitably confront suffering on the field. But the Book of Job answers the problem of suffering: True comfort comes only from faith in a wise and caring God who will ultimately overcome sin and death. Although mercy ministry has its place, the church’s deepest hope for the suffering lies in the gospel of reconciliation through Christ.

Whom did the early church help? From shared possessions in Acts 2 to Paul’s collection for Judea, this study traces every major passage on social ministry in Acts to answer the question: Who received the church’s charity? Time and again, fellow believers—not society at large—received the church’s practical aid.

This article is based on a live conversation between the authors. It has been edited for clarity‍.

Since 1970, Editorial Portavoz has published trustworthy biblical content in Spanish—including 59 MacArthur titles. Partnering with TMAI, Portavoz released the first two volumes of the MacArthur Old Testament Commentary in Spanish (Zechariah in 2025, now Jonah and Nahum) and shipped 3,000 packages of Bible study literature across Latin America. These tools equip more than 500 million Spanish-speaking pastors, leaders, and congregations for faithful, expository study of Scripture.

Misiones Bíblicas, Volume 2 has arrived! Building on volume one's principles, this release establishes the priorities guiding every missionary endeavor—from missionary development through church planting to reproduction—leaving no room for guesswork. Though the largest of the three volumes, its pastoral and accessible tone and its included study guide make it perfect for small groups, Sunday schools, and seminary classes. Launched at Conferencia Expositores 2026, it will reach bookstores across Latin America, Spain, and the U.S. through Editorial Bautista Independiente.