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From the writings of the Rev. Billy Graham

Q: Our church just approved its new budget, which includes a lot of support for missionaries. But are missionaries really needed today? Can't we reach the world more cheaply through things like the internet? Why don't we do this? -- Mrs. V.H.J.

A: Many organizations and ministries today are using the internet and social media to bring the message of Christ's love and hope to others, often reaching people in parts of the world that have no other access to the Gospel. (You can check out our own efforts at BillyGraham.org).

However, missionaries are still needed; in fact, they are needed today more than ever. For example, some countries are now open to the Gospel that were closed only a few decades ago, and opportunities for evangelism and service in those parts of the world have grown. In addition, churches in those countries often need training and other skills that only missionaries can supply.

Also, many parts of the world still have enormous medical, educational, and social needs -- and the opportunities for Christian doctors, nurses, teachers, agriculturalists, and other skilled professionals have never been greater. Needless to say, these cannot be done through the internet. The Bible says, "For we are God's handiwork, created in Christ Jesus to do good works, which God prepared in advance for us to do" (Ephesians 2:10).

Be grateful for the missionaries your church supports. Pray for them, support them financially, and encourage them through your letters and emails. They often work in difficult and lonely places, and they need to know others care. Urge the young people in your church to seek God's will for their lives also -- including the possibility of some type of mission service. Jesus' command has never been withdrawn: "Go into all the world and preach the gospel to all creation" (Mark 16:15).

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(This column is based on the words and writings of the late Rev. Billy Graham.)

(c)2018 BILLY GRAHAM DISTRIBUTED BY TRIBUNE MEDIA SERVICES, INC.