International (MNN) — No matter what you’re doing, pause and reflect for a moment. When did your pastor or small group last talk about unreached people groups?

One-third of the world’s population today has no access to the Gospel. Yet that staggering statistic rarely, if ever, shows up in a sermon or study.

“In many respects, churches in North America have turned inward,” says Steve Johnson, Executive Director of The Alliance for the Unreached.

“We’re growing in our understanding of Scripture, in some respects. Worship is probably more dynamic than it’s ever been. But what’s been forgotten in the midst of that (change) is the Great Commission,” he continues.

“We’ve stopped praying for those who haven’t heard the Gospel.”

The Alliance introduces unreached people groups to Jesus by connecting you to the unreached. Comprised of more than 50 members, the Alliance seeks to educate believers about the Great Commission and raise awareness of remaining needs. You can join their efforts on May 28 – the International Day for the Unreached.

(Graphic courtesy of A Third of Us)

You don’t have to wait until then to start. Download a free action guide here.

“For those interested in the Great Commission, this book is full of ideas about ways to share the need with others,” Johnson says.

“You can advocate; you can give; if God calls you, you can go.”

First and most importantly, pray. “If we’re going to [reach] those who have never heard the Gospel, the battle has to begin on our knees. It isn’t about what we do; it’s about Who we know,” Johnson says.

“Be praying for those who still need access to the Gospel, [and] pray for each other. We will be more effective when we unite our hearts in prayer.”

 

Header and story images courtesy of A Third of Us.