Missions in a Small Church

Small churches often feel like they cannot do missions because they do not have the budget of a large church. But missions is not primarily about money — it is about faithfulness. A small church can have a significant missions impact through prayer, relationships, and strategic giving.

The Three Circles of Missions

Acts 1:8 gives every church a missions framework: Jerusalem (local), Judea and Samaria (regional), and the ends of the earth (global). A healthy small church missions program touches all three circles.

Local Missions (Jerusalem)

• Community outreach events
• Food pantry or benevolence ministry
• School partnerships
• Neighborhood prayer walks
• Supporting local ministries financially

Regional Missions (Judea and Samaria)

• Supporting church plants in your region
• Partnering with rural or urban churches in need
• Participating in denominational mission projects
• Short-term mission trips within driving distance

Global Missions (Ends of the Earth)

• Supporting one or two missionaries personally
• Giving to a mission organization your church trusts
• Praying specifically for unreached people groups
• Hosting missionaries when they visit

Sample Small Church Missions Budget

A small church with a $100,000 annual budget might allocate 10-15% to missions ($10,000-$15,000). Here is a simple allocation:

• Local outreach and benevolence: 40% ($4,000-$6,000)
• Missionary support (1-2 missionaries): 40% ($4,000-$6,000)
• Denominational missions giving: 20% ($2,000-$3,000)

Interested in planting a church? Church Planting Resources — assessment, networks, and free tools for church planters.