‘JAPA’ SYNDROME AND THE GLOBAL MISSION OF GOD
Godfrey Olise
The Nigerian Church, with her vast professionals around the world, is positioned to take the world for Christ if properly positioned and oriented. Many of our young people dispersing to schools or work in other countries should be trained to become agents of transformation and missionaries as they go. ACT 8:4—they preached wherever they scattered to. The case of the Nigerian Church serves as a beacon of hope, emphasising that through faith, perseverance, and a holistic approach to global missions, individuals can truly make a lasting difference in the lives of others, regardless of the challenges they face. Within the context of the Nigerian Church, a profound narrative emerges—one that speaks of resilience, faith, and unwavering commitment to spreading the message of salvation, even in the face of adversity.
The opportunities for global mission have opened to us more especially to professionals at this time as we have navigated the complexities of the contemporary world in recent times. As professionals grapple with their roles in the contemporary global landscape, the call to engage in global missions has become increasingly pertinent. The Nigerian Church exemplifies the fusion of professionalism and missionary zeal, showcasing how individuals from diverse fields- be it medicine, nursing, education, engineering, or business- can dedicate their talents and expertise to bring about the proclamation of Christ in communities worldwide. There are mission opportunities that has opened up to professionals which calls us to go out into the field of our work. We must now align with the Kingdom purposes, priorities and pursuit and passion and shift paradigm on fulfilling the mission of God in our generation.
John Wesley said—if I had 300 men who feared nothing but God, hated nothing but sin and would be determined to know nothing among men but Jesus and him crucified, I would set the entire world on fire. The Nigerian church has millions of diasporans, but do we see ourselves as Christ’s ambassadors or as economic refugees? What impact will be made for Christ and the kingdom if the vast population of young Nigerian professionals cease it as an opportunity for missions…hen a great army would have been leashed around the world in this season. It is ok to leave the country, but please, don’t quit the army. Lord, please help me maintain my place in your army.
Godfrey Olise
Africa Professionals Resource Mission