Introduction to the Acts 1:8 Missions Resource Guide by Luke Long

For many followers of Jesus, the desire to make a difference is real — but knowing where to start can feel overwhelming. Missions can seem like something reserved for those who uproot their lives and move overseas, leaving the rest of us wondering what our role actually is. The truth is, Jesus never intended missions to feel that way. Before ascending to heaven, he gave his disciples — and us — a clear, practical framework for how to engage the world around us.

In Acts 1:8, Jesus told his followers, "You will be my witnesses in Jerusalem, and in all Judea and Samaria, and to the ends of the earth." This wasn't just a sendoff — it was a strategy. He mapped out concentric circles of responsibility, starting right where they stood and moving outward. Jerusalem was their home, their neighborhood, their everyday relationships. Judea represented the surrounding region with shared cultures, while Samaria represented the surrounding region of those who were culturally different but still close by. The ends of the earth pointed to the global horizon — peoples and places far removed from their own experience. Every sphere mattered. No distance was too close, and none was too far.

That same framework applies to us today. Your city has needs that won't be met unless someone shows up. Your region has communities that are underserved and overlooked. And around the world, there are people who have yet to hear the gospel in a way they can understand. The question isn't whether there is a place for you in this work — there is. The question is simply where to begin.

This guide was created to help you answer that question. Whether you are an individual looking for a first step, a small group seeking a shared project, or a congregation wanting to be more intentional about local mission, you will find practical pathways here. Each section corresponds to a sphere from Acts 1:8 and points you toward real opportunities, real organizations, and real ways to get involved. The need is great, and so is the opportunity. Let’s get to work.