An Introduction to the Lausanne Covenant

As we begin this 30-day journey through the Lausanne Covenant, we read the beginning of a global conversation that continues to shape evangelical thought and action. The Covenant is a pivotal document in evangelical Christianity, outlining core beliefs and strategies for global mission, emphasising evangelism, discipleship, and social engagement. It has been shaping global mission since its acceptance in 1974, uniting Christians from every corner of the world in a shared commitment to see the whole church take the whole gospel to the whole world.

Today’s reading is the Introduction and Conclusion to the Lausanne Covenant. Read Introduction Here & Conclusion Here.

We, members of the Church of Jesus Christ, from more than 150 nations, participants in the International Congress on World Evangelization at Lausanne, praise God for his great salvation and rejoice in the fellowship he has given us with himself and with each other. We are deeply stirred by what God is doing in our day, moved to penitence by our failures and challenged by the unfinished task of evangelization. We believe the gospel is God’s good news for the whole world, and we are determined by his grace to obey Christ’s commission to proclaim it to all mankind and to make disciples of every nation. We desire, therefore, to affirm our faith and our resolve, and to make public our covenant.

Conclusion

Therefore, in the light of this our faith and our resolve, we enter into a solemn covenant with God and with each other, to pray, to plan and to work together for the evangelization of the whole world. We call upon others to join us. May God help us by his grace, and for his glory, to be faithful to this our covenant! Amen, Alleluia!

Faith and Resolve

The gospel is God’s good news for the whole world, and the risen Lord Jesus commanded his church to proclaim this good news to all people, making disciples of every nation (Mark 16:15; Matthew 28:19). This requires both faith and action. Believing the gospel leads to obeying the gospel’s commission.

This commission is to bring the good news within meaningful reach of every person on earth. It is a vast and urgent task, one that requires the mobilisation of all God’s people and, above all, the grace of God. We cannot rely on our own strength. Our only hope for remaining faithful to this calling lies in God’s grace, and our motivation must always be his glory.

Our posture should be one of humility as the kingdom we seek is not our own—but God’s (Matthew 6:33). The Lausanne Covenant was drafted and signed in a spirit of humility and confession by those committed to three priorities: to pray together; to plan together; to work together for the evangelization of the whole world. Countless others have committed to this work in the same spirit.

Reflection:

Will you commit to this journey leading to faith and resolve—praying, planning, and working for the gospel to reach the whole world?

Prayer:

Lord Jesus, as I begin this journey, teach me to listen, learn, and follow for your glory and the sake of the world. Amen.