JJ and Jane Marie Newell share their experiences as missionaries with Overland Missions, emphasizing the importance of faith, community, and the transformative power of the Holy Spirit in their ministry and personal lives.
In a recent gathering at Ignite Church in West Virginia, JJ and Jane Marie Newell, full-time missionaries with Overland Missions, shared their inspiring journey and the profound impact of faith in their lives and the communities they serve. Their message centered around the themes of love, fearlessness, and the transformative power of the Holy Spirit.
JJ opened the session by emphasizing the importance of waiting for God's call before taking action. He expressed his awe at God's goodness and the necessity of living without fear, stating, "Perfect love casts out all fear." He encouraged the congregation to embrace their identity as powerful individuals through the Spirit of God, reminding them that they are not victims but empowered beings capable of making a difference.
Jane Marie introduced herself and her husband, sharing their background and the work they do with Overland Missions. They travel extensively, reaching some of the most remote areas of the world, including Zambia, Congo, and Angola. Their mission is simple yet profound: to spread the message that "King Jesus loves you, He died for you, and He wants to have a relationship with you."
Jane Marie highlighted the significance of Jesus-centered worship, noting how it shifts the focus from personal issues to the greatness of God. She referenced Galatians 2:20, stating, "I have been crucified with Christ; therefore I no longer live, but Christ lives in me." This perspective, she argued, is crucial for living a fulfilling life.
The Newells also discussed their role in training future missionaries through Advanced Mission Training (AMT). This three-month boot camp equips individuals with the necessary skills and spiritual foundation to serve effectively in various global contexts. They shared visuals from their training sessions, showcasing the diverse backgrounds of their students and the vibrant community they foster.
A significant part of their message revolved around the radical love of Jesus. JJ emphasized that true success in life is not measured by conventional standards but by fulfilling God's call. He challenged the congregation to redefine their understanding of success and to actively participate in their community's mission.
The Newells stressed the importance of community in their work. They encouraged everyone to take ownership of their mission, asserting that change begins with individuals who are willing to step out in faith and love. They shared testimonies of miraculous healings and transformations that occurred when they engaged with people in love and compassion.
A central theme of the Newells' message was the role of the Holy Spirit in empowering believers. JJ passionately spoke about the explosive power of the Holy Spirit, referencing John 16:7, where Jesus tells His disciples that it is to their advantage that He goes away so that the Holy Spirit can come. He encouraged the congregation to seek a deeper relationship with the Holy Spirit, stating that this relationship is vital for living a life of purpose and impact.
To cultivate a relationship with the Holy Spirit, JJ suggested two key steps:
As the session concluded, the Newells left the congregation with a powerful call to action. They urged everyone to pray for the Holy Spirit's guidance and to actively seek opportunities to share the love of Christ with those around them. They reminded the audience that every believer has the potential to impact their community and the world through the love and power of God.
In their words, "You are not just a passive observer; you are an active participant in God's mission. Embrace your identity as a child of God and let His love flow through you to change lives."
