There are many different strategies for reaching the unreached with the gospel. But perhaps the most powerful is the most simple: prayer. Here are seven potent quotes from great theologians and missionaries on the relationship between missions and prayer. 

“In no other way can the believer become as fully involved with God’s work, especially the work of world evangelism, as in intercessory prayer.” — Dick Eastman, president of America’s National Prayer Committee

“We can reach our world, if we will. The greatest lack today is not people or funds. The greatest need is prayer.” — Wesley Duewel, head of OMS International

“Prayer is the mighty engine that is to move the missionary work.” — A.B. Simpson, founder of The Christian and Missionary Alliance

“The history of missions is the history of answered prayer.” — Samuel Zwemer, missionary nicknamed “The Apostle to Islam” 

“Just a word of warning. Passionate prayers not only change the world, they have a way of transforming the people who pray. … God’s goal is to recruit every one of us for his search and rescue team.” — Debbie Meroff, author

“I never knew before how much is dependent upon a full cooperation with the Lord in prayer. He has, in some sense, limited himself to the scope of the prayers of his people, as taught them by his Spirit. What a partnership prayer is!” — Phil Armstrong, SEND International’s first director 

“Prayer needs no passport, visa or work permit. There is no such thing as a ‘closed country’ as far as prayer is concerned … much of the history of mission could be written in terms of God moving in response to persistent prayer.” — Stephan Gaukroger, British philosopher and historian

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