Eric Swanson: The New Role for Western Missionaries
VIDEO Eric Swanson posted on 1/10/2011 in Global Connection
Global Missions is changing. The early missionaries did their job but now the centers for Christianity have shifted globally from the West to the South and East. The increase in globalization and urbanization has changed missional work. More people travel than ever before and more people live in cities than rural areas. Technology can be very useful but what works today may not be useful tomorrow. The role of the western missionary is changing but we need to continue to collaborate with the nations of the world to help those still unreached.
This resource is part of the 11 for 11 series.
Comments
Who was that very insightful pastor you cite at the start of this article? That’s a church you should go to.
Good presentation. Thanks.
I wonder if part of the answer to the question, ” with the [Church] growing largeley outside the US, what is the new role of the American missionary [or mission-minded church or agency]? is serving the leaders of the indigenous church by passing on what we have learned through the education, training, discipling, equipping and experience we have received.
First, I say serving because it seems when we partner (the Western Church), we usually become the Sr. Partner. We should think beyond partnering to adopting an attitude of servanthood, recognizing the vision, leadership abilities and authority indigenous leaders have been given by Christ.
I applaud the idea in the first paragraph of Predictions, that those we serve should have a major role in setting the agenda for our service to them. They are, in fact, doing a better job of bearing fruit than we are. I’m sure we could learn something from them!
I liked the Home Depot slogan you mentioned in the video - “You can do it - we can help.” Great slogan for the Western Church - we can supply the tools and knowhow to assist you in fulfilling your vision! Great connection.
I think the question we in this movement are asking is, “What in the world is God doing now?” I believe it is recognizing our role in equipping the saints (and leaders, specifically) for the work of ministry on an international platform, not just a local, regional or denominational one. It is passing on what God has put on deposit with us 2 Timothy 2:2 style.
We have asked indigenous leaders what they need from the Western Church. One of the Indian leaders we serve said this: “The churches in America have had an an important role to play in the history of Christian Mission in India. But the impact that they can have now can be much greater than ever before.
“The most needed area for help we have is the building up of native leadership so they are equipped to accomplish the task the Lord has given to them.”
Thank you for considering my thoughts on this. Check out our website and my reports page:
http://www.sosinternational.us
http://web.mac.com/rfrazer1/Site/Welcome.html
Grateful,
Rich
What an awesome site and an eicxting ministry!Church leaders are expected to perform and are often little understood and supported. I pray that you will see increase in your sphere of influence that will blow your socks off!In Jesus’ mighty name.Rob Groves