Missionaries... Nose in the wrong place, or heart in the right place?

Question

I have had some really interesting answers about missionaries recently, there is just one thing bothering me...

If someone has not heard about the "word of god", they automatically go to heaven, as it is not their fault, right? So why tell them, and risk their souls? Surely helping them, and keeping your beliefs to yourself would be much kinder?

Answer 1

Missionaries are trying to fill the holes in their own souls.

Answer 2

Only if one is saved they go to heaven. Missionaries are called to go to these places. Thats how the word of God gets around. Thats why we should witness, cause not everyone has heard about Jesus. Jesus said I am the way, the truth and the life no man cometh to the Father but by me (Jesus). I am glad God does call missionaries to these far off countries, so that they to can hear the good news.

Answer 3

A very interesting question I think, "Automatically go to Heaven" is an fasinating comment. My belief is that everyone deserves to hear the truth and if you never had the opportunity then you deserve that opportunity. So if you do died with out hearing the truth then you go to a place to be taught and make your decision if you believe that or not. This of course implies that we have the opportunity to better ourselves even in the after life. How else can God be a fair and just God?

Answer 4

Missionaries should focus more on feeding peoples' stomaches than their souls. There are basic needs, and faith is lower than food.

And that is true, about going to heaven if you haven't heard the word of God, because one is not able to make a decision about it. I think missionaries should keep their "morals." out of other people's lives, and put all their energy into building homes, rather than churches.

Answer 5

I have a similar problem sharing the Gospel with people. In my chosen faith, Mormon, we are incouraged to share the Gospel with people. However, we also know that if they don't accept the Gospel, then things could be worse for them at Judgement day. And that everyone will get the opportunity to hear the Gospel on the other side, after death, but before the day of Judgement. I tried to share the Gospel with my family after I converted and they not only didn't accept it, but out right rejected it. So my problem is, now that they have had the Gospel preached (at least in part) to them, and have rejected it, won't it be worse for them than if I had never opened my mouth?

Answer 6

>If someone has not heard about the "word of god", they automatically go to heaven, as it is not their fault, right?<

Wrong!

Romans 1:

17 For therein is the righteousness of God revealed from faith to faith: as it is written, The just shall live by faith.

18 For the wrath of God is revealed from heaven against all ungodliness and unrighteousness of men, who hold the truth in unrighteousness;

19 Because that which may be known of God is manifest in them; for God hath shewed it unto them.

20 For the invisible things of him from the creation of the world are clearly seen, being understood by the things that are made, even his eternal power and Godhead; so that they are without excuse:

21 Because that, when they knew God, they glorified him not as God, neither were thankful; but became vain in their imaginations, and their foolish heart was darkened.

Everyone is programmed knowing God exists so they are without excuse!

Let me ask you a question - IF (as I believe) the only way to heaven is through the Lord Jesus Christ so to deny telling anyone about this way is selfish and wrong because you don't tell people then they perish forever - right?

Answer 7

No, it just means that they will be judged less harshly. It's worse to know God, then turn away from Him. But people who have NOT heard, will Not go! Scripture tells us that the only way to the Father is through the Son, if you don't know Jesus, you're not going anywhere. We are told as Christians to go forth and spread the Good News, not keep it to ourselves, but share it with the world so that many can be saved. I hope that this clarifies your misperception, my friend. Peace

Answer 8

no, that is not true, you don't get to go to Heaven just because you have not heard about God. God has given all of us a soul that longs for a greater power. And missionaries are doing what God has called all of us to do, to go out and make disciples, baptizing them in the name of the Father, Son, and HOly Spirit.

Answer 9

This is a great question,, though I doubt you will get any intelligent answers from missionaries.

Most will be scripture quotes and, smart alec remarks,, some will be long sermons filled to the brim with various quotes from the bible,, book of Mormon,,,Koran,, etc.

Oh,, I forgot to mention a few cynical statements from the non-believer bunch,,,,like this one.

Answer 10

Well yes, I believe God does only hold us responsible for what we know, but I also believe that the knowledge that comes with that responsibility is also a great blessing, and is worth it.

You know it's like when you're a kid and learning how to read. Does knowing how to read mean the teacher will sometimes call on you to read in front of the whole class? - yep, and that can be scary, but it sure is worth knowing how to read.

best wishes

Answer 11

As a christian it is your duty and responsibility to spread the word of God to anyone and everyone. They do not have to listen they do not have to accept. However, even as a christian person, I believe there is only one God and many people choose to believe in him differently. It is not my place to judge who will or will not go to heaven. Just my opinion, My best friend is Muslim, I love her dearly, and we have agreed to disagree, we have been friends for over 25 years. I believe the job of a missionary is to give them something to believe in, if you believe in nothing you will fall for anything. And these people are not being forced and they are not totally ignorant. they are just given the word and then allowed to choose. God bless