Western Christians in Global Mission (Paul Borthwick)

Western Christians in Global Mission

What’s the Role of the North American Church?

There are now more Christians in China than in all of Europe, more Pentecostals in Brazil than in the United States, and more Anglicans in Kenya than in Great Britain, Canada, and the United States combined. Countries that were once destinations for western missionaries are now sending their own missionaries to North America. What is now the role of Western Christians in Global Mission?

A century ago, Christianity was still primarily centered in North America and Europe. By the dawn of the 21st century, Christianity had become a truly global faith, with Christians in Asia, Africa and Latin America outpacing those in the rest of the world.

Changing Times in Missions

Given these changes, some think the day of the Western missionary is over. Some are wary that American mission efforts may perpetuate an imperialistic colonialism. Some say that global outreach is best left to indigenous leaders. Others simply feel that resources should be focused on the home front. Is there an ongoing role for the North American church in global mission?

Missions specialist Paul Borthwick brings an urgent report on how the Western church can best continue in global mission. He provides a current analysis of the state of the world and how world leaders perceive North American Christians’ place.

Borthwick offers concrete advice for how Western Christians can be involved without being paternalistic or creating dependency. Using their human and material resources with wise and strategic stewardship, North American Christians can answer God’s call to global involvement.

Table of Contents

Foreword by Femi B. Adeleye

Preface: Invitation to a Journey

Introduction: Questions for the Journey

1. The State of the World
2. An Appraisal of the North American Church
3. An Appraisal of the Majority World Church
4. Biblical Continuity
5. A Posture of Humility
6. Purposeful Reciprocity
7. Sacrifice – not just Generosity
8. Partnership Equality
9. Listening to Our Non-Western Brothers and Sisters
10. United Together – So That the World Might Know

Conclusion: Responding to the Invitation

About the Author

Paul Borthwick is senior consultant for Development Associates International and teaches missions at Gordon College in Wenham, Massachusetts. He dedicates himself to mobilizing others to world missions through a speaking, writing, and resource ministry. Previously he served for over 20 years on the staff of Grace Chapel in Lexington, Massachusetts.  He is also author of A Mind for Missions and several Bible studies.

In this critical age, the global body of Christ needs one another more than ever. Discover how the Western church can contribute to a new era of mission marked by mutuality, reciprocity and humility.