How Do You Think?

In their book “Breaking the Missional Code”, Ed Stetzer and David Putman raise some very interesting points to think about.  In discussing the effectiveness of churches, they write:

 

“Missionaries….know that they must have a profound understanding of their culture before planning a strategy to reach the unique people group that exists in that cultural context.  This is why they first study the culture to find strategies that will work among the people who live in that cultural setting.”

 

“Evangelism is telling people about Jesus; missions involves understanding them before we tell them.”

 

“If we are going to join God on his mission, we have to recognize that we are missionaries…wherever he places us—just like the first disciples.”

 

On the Missouri district, we have several distinct “cultures” to minister to.  It is imperative that we as leaders understand who we are trying to reach, then customize our methodology to our culture, so they will listen to the message. 

 

                                                                                      RELEVANCE IS KEY IN BEING AN EFFECTIVE MISSIONARY