First, mission work has always been the prerogative of the local church. Today, in contrast with the Acts model, most evangelical missionary activity is carried on outside the local church context by parachurch groups. Second, the church at Antioch was one of mixed cultures and races. We know from the list of names in verse one that there were Jews, European whites, and African blacks in the membership. Yet, there was unity in this racial and cultural diversity because there was a common doctrine and purpose.
Mission work is hard and demanding.
It is discouraging. Satan does not give up his long-held territory easily. A missionary confronts the powers of darkness on their home turf. It is spiritual conflict to which God has given a Divine call. Inherent in the call to missions is the call to preach and teach the Word.