A work-in-progress
A work-in-progress
This book is for every Christian with worldwide missions on his heart. It is packed full of stimulating and thoughtful principles for contemporary witness to people in the Two- Thirds world whether abroad or in our own communities. Positive and negative attitudes (postures) are explored by the author with refreshing insights and biblical truth.
The manuscript was reviewed pre-publication by prominent mission executives, missionaries, international Christian leaders, pastors and college professors. The author speaks not only to gospel messengers raised in the Western world, but also to non-Westerners who are part of the wonderful new wave of world missions consciousness and outreach to people different from themselves.
Official visitors to other countries, those in diplomatic exchanges, professional delegations, lecturers in academic institutions abroad, Christians serving overseas as "tentmakers"--even, and especially, American Christians who join a tour to visit another country can benefit from these indispensable principles.
The author zeros in on our attitudes as gospel proclaimers to any cross-cultural persons. Communication is what missions is all about. Our manner, bearing, mien, our "posture" that isn't verbalized comes across to others first and may be more lasting--for better or worse. We may not realize how our "air" is acutely discernable by those from other cultures. Understanding how those people perceive us is essential preparation for witnessing to them.
Who ventures to write about such things, and with what authority or background? Leona Choy, born of Czech parents, married to a Chinese minister (classmate at Wheaton College, IL) has spent nearly half a century listening to Christians on both sides of the cultural bridge. She understands the Western missionary viewpoint and the gospel-receiver perspective from having lived in a Chinese context, family, and ministry abroad and in the U.S. for a lifetime.
She passes on invaluable observations of "how they see us." The intent is to discern areas of possible sensitivity from the gospel receiver's viewpoint so we can correct our "postures" in the ever-changing, modern world in which we are called to proclaim the gospel.
"Certainly my perspective is far from perfect," Leona admits, "but I am willing to stick my neck out to help us understand and accurately identify some of the problems and head them off before they hinder our witness for Christ."
The book is profoundly important for young
missionary candidates who may not fully realize that, generally
speaking, they are no longer living in the "pith
helmet" and "missionary pedestal" era of missions.
The American Christian seeking to form redemptive friendships
with internationals on community campuses should find the book
particularly meaningful.
Not available yet
ISBN 1-889283-05-3
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