Missions in Reverse NYC.jpg — by Jeff Olinghouse

The NYC metro is one of the most densely populated places in the United States and is an enclave for immigrants for a variety of reasons. Many come for an opportunity at a new life away from their mother countries, while some come to join communities that have already settled in the NYC metro area. Along with the convergence upon this metropolis, there is also a longing of despair for the preaching of the Gospel of Jesus Christ. Many leave homes and family, yet most have never heard the life-changing Gospel of Jesus Christ in its fullness.

I will never forget one of the first times we were in a taxi in NYC and our driver was from Africa. I noticed the melting pot of cultures, languages, and customs that make NYC the wonder it is. At that moment, in a taxi on 5th Ave I heard the voice of the Holy Spirit speak to me and say, “This is a city of nations.” That became the driving force of why we believe that God has called us to go and make disciples in the NYC metro area.

For those who came from abroad, they bring with them their cultures and customs and implement these into their lifestyle. I believe that the best person to reach a people group is someone from their own culture. In a time of prayer over the last few years, the Holy Spirt has given us specific instructions to “influence the influencers.” Under that directive, it is our vision and heart to reach those of influence in their own communities with the Gospel so that they may make disciples among their own people groups. This is actually “missions in reverse.”

I believe that if we a reach just one person in a sphere of influence in their community you can be effective to the entire community. Small groups and house church models for discipleship are key when working in a large city environment. I can envision many small churches and house churches that speak languages of all kinds. To me, that is what Heaven will sound like.

The New York City Metro is strategic in these days for the work of the Church. It is one of the most effective sending bases to the nations! We believe God has a key plan to reach this city and launch cross-cultural laborers from here that reach the final harvest for the Kingdom of God around the world.