First In, Last Out
September 2024
A motto is a phrase that encapsulates the guiding philosophy of an individual, family, or institution, reflecting the principles and practices for which they are known. Phrases like “Integrity First,” “Service Before Self,” and “Excellence in All We Do” communicate the commitment, compassion, and conduct expected from those who uphold a certain name. For believers, mottos such as “To God Be the Glory,” “Conforming to Christ,” or “Following the Savior” might serve this purpose. I believe the motto that should define a Baptist missionary is one often associated with elite military units and specialized search and rescue teams: “First In, Last Out.” 
Unfortunately, mottos—whether secular or spiritual—often represent a standard one aspires to rather than an accurate reflection of current practices. Throughout my life, I’ve heard phrases that capture the philosophy and practice of the Baptist church, but not always in a positive light. Phrases like “Last Ones to Respond,” “The Frozen Chosen,” and “Shoot the Wounded” are regrettably familiar. Of course, the Baptist church would likely phrase these differently, perhaps as “Fools Rush In,” “Preserve Our Posterity,” and “Separate from Failures.”
When we consider that one-third of the world remains without a Bible, without believers, and without Baptist churches, it’s disheartening that “First In, Last Out” seems either contrary to our current philosophy and practice or a standard we have yet to achieve. However, this can change. Each believer and each local church can become that elite, specialized team, known for the commitment, compassion, and conduct that says, “We will be the first to reach a certain unreached people group, and we will support those we send so that they are the last to leave.”
Jesus said in John 9:4: “I must work the works of him that sent me, while it is day: the night cometh, when no man can work.” He also declared in John 20:21: “As the Father hath sent me, so send I you.” Let us adopt the motto that encapsulated Jesus’ ministry.
To the Ends of the Earth,
GFF General Director