It can be argued that a Christian who fears death does not understand the purpose of his life. Our temporary life is to be used to glorify God, and not to bring ourselves comfort and security. John Piper said, “Death is like my car. It takes me where I want to go.” As disciples of Christ our lives should be dedicated to his service and glory. We must never place our personal wellbeing and safety ahead of the primary purpose we have been placed on this earth.

No missionary, no disciple of Christ should seek death. No fool hearted person should pursue danger or peril. Physical harm is not the measure of a good Christian. However, nobody who has dedicated their life to the glory of Christ ought to fear physical or emotional harm. If servants of the Lord shy away from those things which may cause temporary pain we risk missing our full purpose in Christ.

Too often Christians ignore a call to missions because a pastor, parent or friend convinces them of the danger or difficulty they might experience. Prospective missionaries are frequently ambushed by those who claim to serve the Lord and are convinced to embrace safety and avoid risk. A Christian friend who had what is best for the kingdom in mind would help you pack your bags and drive you to the airport so you could go serve God in a dangerous country.

No disciple of Christ should embrace the security in this temporary life at the cost of the eternal glory of God. A Christian who encourages a missionary to avoid danger, risk and hardship does not fully comprehend the sovereignty and kingship of God. Missionary Amy Carmichael said, “Missionary life is simply a chance to die.” God is supreme and he can and will call you home when he sees fit, on the mission field or in the perceived safety of your home.

While the advice of other Christians may do much to confuse and dissuade us about risk and possible martyrdom, the Bible is very clear. We are told throughout Scripture that being a disciple of Christ is full of risk. We are told the godly are persecuted (2 Tim 3:12). Christians are to glorify God in our suffering (1 Pet 4:14-16). A follower of the Lord should not fear death (Matt 10:28-33). We are instructed to glorify Christ with your suffering (2 Cor 12:9-10). And, to rejoice in your suffering (Rom 5:1-21). Throughout the Bible we read about fellow believers who were tortured and killed for their dedication to God; Abel (Genesis 4), John the Baptist (Matt 14:1-12), Stephen (Acts 6-7), James (Acts 12: 1-2) and more. Why should we view ourselves as above what is outlined for followers in the Bible?

It can be argued that a Christian who fears death does not understand the purpose of his life. Our temporary life is to be used to glorify God, and not to bring ourselves comfort and security. John Piper said, “Death is like my car. It takes me where I want to go.” As disciples of Christ our lives should be dedicated to his service and glory. We must never place our personal wellbeing and safety ahead of the primary purpose we have been placed on this earth.

Embracing ease and an aversion to risk in this life at the expense of God’s eternal glory guarantees we will not embrace our fullest potential in our ministry. A timid, safety-seeking service to the Lord is not what we are called to give. If we are looking over our shoulder, making safe decision and avoiding risk we are not giving everything we have to the Lord. Dietrich Bonhoeffer said, “When Christ calls a man, he bids him come and die.”

Living in this world is risky. Safety is an illusion. But, of all people, Christians should know the true risk of death without Christ. Today over 150,000 people will die and most won’t know Jesus. We can look the other way but you can never again say you weren’t aware. The world says a smart person avoids death and suffering. But, a Christian knows a temporary body in this life is worth risking for the eternal soul of a stranger. Augustine told us, “It is not the punishment but the cause that makes the martyr.” Jesus, the King who died for us, is worth giving your life for.

Again, let it be stressed here that nobody is encouraging Christians to foolishly place themselves in harm’s way or martyr themselves for a better lot in eternity. However, being a disciple of Christ means we are to place glory and service to Christ ahead of our personal security. Do not make a decision based on your benefit, but the benefit to the kingdom. Your temporary body was intended to be used to advance the gospel. Simply believing in Christ is insufficient. He wants your unconditional love. We are to be obedient unto death and glorify him no matter the cost.

This article is not intended to result in guilt and shame, but freedom. Break free from the shackles of temporary safety and security and embrace your calling to bring eternal glory to the Lord. Do not limit your service for fear of death but, embrace a life of service. This is not for your fame, but for that of the Lord. Ignatius said, “I would rather die for Christ than rule the whole earth.” If God is calling you to stay home or serve in a safer location, it is my prayer you embrace that calling. However, if you hear a calling to serve in risky or dangerous conditions, amen.

Mike Pettengill is a full-time missionary serving in Equatorial Guinea with Mission to the World. He previously served seven and a half years as a missionary in Honduras. To learn more about the Pettengill’s work in Honduras visit Pettengill Missionaries.