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From the writings of the Rev. Billy Graham

Q: Is there a difference between being an apostle for Jesus or a missionary, and are they both responsible for getting people saved? – A.M.

A: Christian missions is a unique movement. Christianity in its pure form has no “axe to grind,” and “no system to foster.” Its work is to go into the whole world and preach the Gospel.

The word apostle is from the Greek, and the word missionary is from the Latin. The New Testament is a book of missions. The gospels tell of Jesus’ missionary works, and the book of the “Acts” tell of the missionary endeavors of the apostles in spreading the Gospel of Jesus Christ.

The disciples were launched into the world by the power of the resurrection of Jesus Christ. The Gospel made its impact upon the world’s people. Peter went to many regions like Joppa, Antioch, Babylon, and Asia Minor. John went to Samaria, Ephesus, and to the cities on the Mediterranean. Thomas journeyed to faraway India. Paul, the peer of all early missionaries, used the roads Rome had built to take the Gospel through the empire.

Today the need for missions is greater than ever before. The world is shrinking in size but expanding in population. We live in a world of conflicting, confusing beliefs! We live in a world of complex problems. But, more importantly, we live in a world of dire spiritual need.

Paul, both an apostle and missionary, wrote, “I have a stewardship entrusted to me” 1 Corinthians 9:17, NASB 1995).

Only God can convict sinners of their sins; only He can bring them to the truth of His Gospel message – and He desires that all people be saved. But how privileged are those who hear the call of God and go forth with the Good News provided in Jesus Christ.

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

©2026 Billy Graham Literary Trust. Distributed by Tribune Content Agency, LLC.

(c)2026 BILLY GRAHAM DISTRIBUTED BY TRIBUNE MEDIA SERVICES, INC.