Origins and Value
"In the late 1970s, the Division of Foreign Missions administrative body in Springfield Missouri, under the leadership of J. Philip Hogan, began discussing the idea of using the tools of mass media for the proclamation of the gospel worldwide...After a two-year study, this committee made the recommendation…in May 1981 that an international media ministry be formed that could help all missionaries in all the fields. This (concept) was approved in October 1981. The mandate given initially was 'to develop an international ministry that would develop a global strategy for the use of radio and television for evangelism and worker training.’” from “The founding of International Media Ministries”
This record of International Media Ministries’ origin moved me to tears. As you look back, you also look to the future. Are we on track and where are we going? Someone made the comparison, the rearview mirror is only a few inches wide while the windshield of the car is six feet. Looking back lets you see if the road is correct and if you have stayed on track. I rejoice that the mission is solid and that we are, indeed, on track. It is a mission that will be needed until Jesus comes. If anyone at all on this planet needs to hear about Jesus in our media-heavy times, our mission holds.
It holds to train others to do the same job and keep the kingdom expanding through all our efforts to share the good news on radio, television, satellites, and online streaming platforms. Who knows what is coming around the next corner as technology innovations bring new opportunities every day?
Ed Nelson who came to Assemblies of God with this kernel of an idea and led the committee in studying the technology of 1980 including a new idea in technical circles—the cellular phone—said this:
“What became essential to staking IMM in the global endeavor of sharing the gospel was that it always be adaptable, innovative, ever-modifying, reinventing where needed, and shifting in its functions to adapt to new technologies. It is to never become still, stale, or stuck in past successes, ever-moving, ever-changing, ever-adapting to the rise of new opportunities and needs. Since then, IMM has worked tirelessly to bring people all over the world into a saving relationship with the Messiah Jesus through various forms of media. It utilizes the most advanced technologies to tell timeless stories that people can view on televisions, cinema screens, and mobile phones.”
What a terrific affirmation of the work of IMM, but what a challenge too. We must never pause our progress or rest on the past. God has honored the work of 40 years but more people need to know Him and the power of His Glory. We join hands with you to continue this important mission to reach closed places, to tell lost stories, to bring eternal treasure to hearts. More stories are waiting to be told and we will only be successful in doing this beautiful work together.
God’s Word for Today:
“Behold, I am doing a new thing; now it springs forth, do you not perceive it? I will make a way in the wilderness and rivers in the desert.” Isaiah 43:19
Pray with us:
Pray for the future media projects being developed to be anointed by the Holy Spirit.
Pray for our team and our resources to meet the needs in front of us.
Pray for you and how you can help make the treasure of heaven bright for others as we stand together for His truth.
Have a need that you would like us to join you in prayer for? Want to join our Prayer Team? Click the “Pray with us!” button to sign up and submit prayer requests.