Vision is essential to a church. However, unlike the values, mission, and purpose, the vision is more subject to change. It is dynamic, not static. Over time, the vision must be renewed, adapted, and adjusted to the cultural context in which the congregation lives. The change takes place only at the margins of the vision, not at its core. The core—the Great Commission—does not change. The details ...
Strategy That Works Making adjustments to meet real needs. Steven D. Mathewson
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The Case
When the first two cases of the Jesus video arrived, expectations at Hope Chapel soared. The church planned to invest one year knocking on every door within a one-mile radius of the church, offering a copy of the Jesus video. The strategy called for follow-up phone calls and visits. The goal was 30 new converts.
One year later, expectations had shriveled into frustrations. Only one convert ...
Strategy That Works Making adjustments to meet real needs. Steven D. Mathewson
Rating:Not yet rated $2.99
The Case When the first two cases of the Jesus video arrived, expectations at Hope Chapel soared. The church planned to invest one year knocking on every door within a one-mile radius of the church, offering a copy of the Jesus video. The strategy called for follow-up phone calls and visits. The goal was 30 new converts.
One year later, expectations had shriveled into frustrations. Only one convert ...
Becoming Global Christians Christians in the 21st century can’t afford to avoid multicultural engagement. Miriam Adeney
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Shortly after the attacks of September 11, 2001, Miriam Adeney, editor at large for Christianity Today and Associate Professor of World Christian Studies at Seattle Pacific University, wrote these words to motivate American Christians about their need to become globally involved. Even years later, her words continue to ring true.
Of all people, Christians are to love our neighbors. When our neighborhood ...
Developing openness toward another culture is the first step in cross-cultural ministry. Until we are willing to serve others on their terms, our efforts will be limited in their impact. The following four skills are strong steps toward developing cross-cultural openness.Â
Suspending Judgment
Suppose I am standing in a store waiting to pay the cashier. An unkempt woman stands behind me. In less than ...
Joseph is among my favorite characters of the Bible. He experienced the best and worst in life. Forced to live cross-culturally, he responded nobly. Finally, he found himself in a position of enormous power. When the opportunity came to unleash revenge against his brothers for their betrayal, he was gracious and ultimately forgave and was reconciled to them. He chose the towel of service rather than ...
Getting used to a new culture takes time. Here are six strategies to take with you into your cross-cultural service. Applying them at the right times will help you sustain a strong ministry in a strange setting.
It Takes Time
Cultural adjustment does not come quickly and, for some, not easily. Therefore, don't be so hard on yourself. Go into the new culture realizing that there will be bumps. But keep ...
If we're not careful, we can easily fall into a number of traps as we plan to serve God in another culture. Here are a number of things to keep in mind as you prepare to go. As we adjust out hearts and minds, we will become better equipped to serve cross-culturally.
1. God's a Lot Bigger than Your Short-Term Mission Trip
God's sovereignty should be a word of encouragement to some. Others need to hear ...
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