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Global Global Partnering Partnering in Missions in Missions Project Concept Project Concept for for Global Partnering Global Partnering in Missions in Missions Sowing the Vision Sowing the Vision Rev. Dale Talsma Rev. Dale Talsma 2008 2008

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Page 1: G pi m project concept 2008 rvsd

Global Global Partnering in Partnering in

MissionsMissionsProject ConceptProject Concept forfor Global Partnering in Global Partnering in

MissionsMissions

Sowing the VisionSowing the VisionRev. Dale TalsmaRev. Dale Talsma

20082008

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Global Global Partnering in Partnering in

MissionsMissionsMembers of the Body of Christ Members of the Body of Christ throughout the world working throughout the world working

together to bring the Gospel to the together to bring the Gospel to the whole world. whole world.

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Members of the Body of Christ Members of the Body of Christ throughout the world working throughout the world working

together to bring the Gospel to the together to bring the Gospel to the whole world. whole world.

Global Global Partnering in Partnering in

MissionsMissions

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2. Motivations driving the vision2. Motivations driving the vision2. Motivations driving the vision2. Motivations driving the vision

Global Global Partnering in Partnering in

MissionsMissions1. The overarching vision1. The overarching vision1. The overarching vision1. The overarching vision

4. Historical background4. Historical background 4. Historical background4. Historical background

3. The contexts of the vision3. The contexts of the vision3. The contexts of the vision3. The contexts of the vision

5. From vision to realization5. From vision to realization5. From vision to realization5. From vision to realization

Outline of this Outline of this presentationpresentationOutline of this Outline of this presentationpresentation

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In view of modern developments, In view of modern developments, we see that God has opened doors for the we see that God has opened doors for the ChurchChurch

– – now found in all nations and now found in all nations and languages – languages – to join together in new global partnerships to join together in new global partnerships to advance God’s mission into all the world to advance God’s mission into all the world where most people are still lost.where most people are still lost.

Global Global Partnering in Partnering in

MissionsMissions1. The overarching vision1. The overarching vision1. The overarching vision1. The overarching vision

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Global Global Partnering in Partnering in

MissionsMissions1. The overarching vision1. The overarching visionToday presents us with an Today presents us with an exciting opportunity!exciting opportunity!An opportunity to resourcefully engage the An opportunity to resourcefully engage the diverse gifts diverse gifts of global Lutheran Christians, of global Lutheran Christians, to coordinate efforts so that called servants to coordinate efforts so that called servants originating originating from churches around the world from churches around the world can be sent anywhere in the world can be sent anywhere in the world in collaborative mission endeavors in collaborative mission endeavors guided and empowered by the Holy Spirit! guided and empowered by the Holy Spirit!

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The first phase of the project seeks to The first phase of the project seeks to clarify the potential for – and the clarify the potential for – and the determinative factors involved in – determinative factors involved in – international mission cooperation, and to international mission cooperation, and to explore how it could be best facilitated explore how it could be best facilitated across national, institutional, and cultural across national, institutional, and cultural boundaries among confessional Lutheran boundaries among confessional Lutheran churches worldwide. churches worldwide.

Global Global Partnering in Partnering in

MissionsMissions1. The overarching vision1. The overarching vision

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Global Global Partnering in Partnering in

MissionsMissions2. Motivations driving the 2. Motivations driving the visionvision

Why?Why?

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• Motivations arising from God's WordMotivations arising from God's Word

Global Global Partnering in Partnering in

MissionsMissions2. Motivations driving the 2. Motivations driving the visionvision

• Current global realities propelling the Current global realities propelling the visionvision

• New realities in the global Church New realities in the global Church

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Global Global Partnering in Partnering in

MissionsMissions2. Motivations driving the 2. Motivations driving the visionvision

• Motivations arising from God's WordMotivations arising from God's Word

• Current global realities propelling the visionCurrent global realities propelling the vision

• New realities in the global ChurchNew realities in the global Church

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Global Global Partnering in Partnering in

MissionsMissions2. Motivations driving the 2. Motivations driving the visionvision

• Motivations arising from God's WordMotivations arising from God's Word

• Current global realities propelling the visionCurrent global realities propelling the vision

• New realities in the global ChurchNew realities in the global Church

What do we learn from theWhat do we learn from the

Word of God?Word of God?

First…First…

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Global Global Partnering in Partnering in

MissionsMissions2. Motivations driving the 2. Motivations driving the visionvision

• Motivations arising from God's WordMotivations arising from God's Word

• Current global realities propelling the visionCurrent global realities propelling the vision

• New realities in the global ChurchNew realities in the global Church

– ““Body of Christ” with many “members”Body of Christ” with many “members”(1 Cor. 12; Rom. 12)(1 Cor. 12; Rom. 12)

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“The body is a unit, though it is made up of many parts; … For we were all baptized by one Spirit into one body—whether Jews or Greeks, slave or free—and we were all given the one Spirit to drink. … If the whole body were an eye, where would the sense of hearing be? If the whole body were an ear, where would the sense of smell be? But in fact God has arranged the parts in the body, every one of them, just as he wanted them to be. If they were all one part, where would the body be?”

“The body is a unit, though it is made up of many parts; … For we were all baptized by one Spirit into one body—whether Jews or Greeks, slave or free—and we were all given the one Spirit to drink. … If the whole body were an eye, where would the sense of hearing be? If the whole body were an ear, where would the sense of smell be? But in fact God has arranged the parts in the body, every one of them, just as he wanted them to be. If they were all one part, where would the body be?”

One unified body of diverse composition

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1 Corinthians 12:12-18“The body is a unit, though it is made up of many parts; … For we were all baptized by one Spirit into one body—whether Jews or Greeks, slave or free—and we were all given the one Spirit to drink. … If the whole body were an eye, where would the sense of hearing be? If the whole body were an ear, where would the sense of smell be? But in fact God has arranged the parts in the body, every one of them, just as he wanted them to be. If they were all one part, where would the body be?”

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– ““Body of Christ” with many “members”Body of Christ” with many “members” (1 Cor. 12; Rom. 12)(1 Cor. 12; Rom. 12)

Global Global Partnering in Partnering in

MissionsMissions2. Motivations driving the 2. Motivations driving the visionvision

• Motivations arising from God's WordMotivations arising from God's Word

• Current global realities propelling the visionCurrent global realities propelling the vision

• New realities in the global ChurchNew realities in the global Church

– – Universal character of the Gospel and the Universal character of the Gospel and the Church Church (Gen. 3:15; 12:1-4; Is. 42, 49; Acts 2; Phil. 2; Rev. 7; etc.)(Gen. 3:15; 12:1-4; Is. 42, 49; Acts 2; Phil. 2; Rev. 7; etc.)

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“... and all peoples on earth will be blessed through you.”

“... and all peoples on earth will be blessed through you.”

God’s global promise in his call to Abraham ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Genesis 12:3

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“... I will also make you a light for the Gentiles, that you may bring my salvation to the ends of the earth.”

“... I will also make you a light for the Gentiles, that you may bring my salvation to the ends of the earth.”

God’s promise to his chosen Servant

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Isaiah 49:6 (and quoted in Acts 13:47 as fulfilled in

Jesus)

“... I will also make you a light for the Gentiles, that you may bring my salvation to the ends of the earth.”

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“Then how is it that each of us hears them in his own native language? Parthians, Medes and Elamites; residents of Mesopotamia, Judea and Cappadocia, Pontus and Asia, Phrygia and Pamphylia, Egypt and the parts of Libya near Cyrene; visitors from Rome (both Jews and converts to Judaism); Cretans and Arabs—we hear them declaring the wonders of God in our own tongues!” Amazed and perplexed, they asked one another, “What does this mean?”

“Then how is it that each of us hears them in his own native language? Parthians, Medes and Elamites; residents of Mesopotamia, Judea and Cappadocia, Pontus and Asia, Phrygia and Pamphylia, Egypt and the parts of Libya near Cyrene; visitors from Rome (both Jews and converts to Judaism); Cretans and Arabs—we hear them declaring the wonders of God in our own tongues!” Amazed and perplexed, they asked one another, “What does this mean?”

“Then how is it that each of us hears them in his own native language? Parthians, Medes and Elamites; residents of Mesopotamia, Judea and Cappadocia, Pontus and Asia, Phrygia and Pamphylia, Egypt and the parts of Libya near Cyrene; visitors from Rome (both Jews and converts to Judaism); Cretans and Arabs—we hear them declaring the wonders of God in our own tongues!” Amazed and perplexed, they asked one another, “What does this mean?”

The Holy Spirit poured out on the Church

----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Acts 2:8-12

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“that at the name of Jesus every knee should bow, in heaven and on earth and under the earth, and every tongue confess that Jesus Christ is Lord, to the glory of God the Father.”

“that at the name of Jesus every knee should bow, in heaven and on earth and under the earth, and every tongue confess that Jesus Christ is Lord, to the glory of God the Father.”

“that at the name of Jesus every knee should bow, in heaven and on earth and under the earth, and every tongue confess that Jesus Christ is Lord, to the glory of God the Father.”

The universal scope of Christ’s dominion

------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Philippians 2:10-11

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– ““Body of Christ” with many “members”Body of Christ” with many “members” (1 Cor. 12; Rom. 12) (1 Cor. 12; Rom. 12)

Global Global Partnering in Partnering in

MissionsMissions2. Motivations driving the 2. Motivations driving the visionvision

• Motivations arising from God's WordMotivations arising from God's Word

• Current global realities propelling the visionCurrent global realities propelling the vision

• New realities in the global ChurchNew realities in the global Church

– – Universal character of the Gospel and the Church Universal character of the Gospel and the Church (Gen. 3:15; 12:1-4; Is. 42, 49; Acts 2; Phil. 2; Rev. 7; etc.)(Gen. 3:15; 12:1-4; Is. 42, 49; Acts 2; Phil. 2; Rev. 7; etc.)

– – The witness of oneness; unity in diversityThe witness of oneness; unity in diversity (John 17; Eph. 4) (John 17; Eph. 4)

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“I in them and you in me. May they be brought to complete unity to let the world know that you sent me and have loved them even as you have loved me.”

“I in them and you in me. May they be brought to complete unity to let the world know that you sent me and have loved them even as you have loved me.”

“I in them and you in me. May they be brought to complete unity to let the world know that you sent me and have loved them even as you have loved me.”

“I in them and you in me. May they be brought to complete unity to let the world know that you sent me and have loved them even as you have loved me.”

Jesus’ prayer for his disciples

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John 17:23

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“I urge you to live a life worthy of the calling you have received. Be completely humble and gentle; be patient, bearing with one another in love. Make every effort to keep the unity of the Spirit through the bond of peace. There is one body and one Spirit— just as you were called to one hope when you were called—one Lord, one faith, one baptism; one God and Father of all, who is over all and through all and in all. But to each one of us grace has been given as Christ apportioned it.”

“I urge you to live a life worthy of the calling you have received. Be completely humble and gentle; be patient, bearing with one another in love. Make every effort to keep the unity of the Spirit through the bond of peace. There is one body and one Spirit— just as you were called to one hope when you were called—one Lord, one faith, one baptism; one God and Father of all, who is over all and through all and in all. But to each one of us grace has been given as Christ apportioned it.”

“I urge you to live a life worthy of the calling you have received. Be completely humble and gentle; be patient, bearing with one another in love. Make every effort to keep the unity of the Spirit through the bond of peace. There is one body and one Spirit— just as you were called to one hope when you were called—one Lord, one faith, one baptism; one God and Father of all, who is over all and through all and in all. But to each one of us grace has been given as Christ apportioned it.”

The true unity of the global Church

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Ephesians 4:1-8

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– ““Body of Christ” with many “members”Body of Christ” with many “members” (1 Cor. 12; Rom. 12) (1 Cor. 12; Rom. 12)

Global Global Partnering in Partnering in

MissionsMissions2. Motivations driving the 2. Motivations driving the visionvision

• Motivations arising from God's WordMotivations arising from God's Word

• Current global realities propelling the visionCurrent global realities propelling the vision

• New realities in the global ChurchNew realities in the global Church

– – Universal character of the Gospel and the Church Universal character of the Gospel and the Church (Gen. 3:15; 12:1-4; Is. 42, 49; Acts 2; Phil. 2; Rev. 7; etc.)(Gen. 3:15; 12:1-4; Is. 42, 49; Acts 2; Phil. 2; Rev. 7; etc.)

– – The witness of oneness; unity in diversityThe witness of oneness; unity in diversity (John 17; Eph. 4) (John 17; Eph. 4)

– – Ministry from a position of human weaknessMinistry from a position of human weakness(Luke 10:2-3; 22:27; Jn 20:20-21; 1 Cor. 2:2-5; 2 Cor. 4:7; 12:9-(Luke 10:2-3; 22:27; Jn 20:20-21; 1 Cor. 2:2-5; 2 Cor. 4:7; 12:9-10)10)

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Jesus’ example --- the way of the cross

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Luke 22:27John 20:20-21

“But I am among you as one who serves.” “But I am among you as one who serves.”

“he showed them his hands and side. … Jesus said to them again, “Peace be with you! As the Father sent me, so I send you.”

“he showed them his hands and side. … Jesus said to them again, “Peace be with you! As the Father sent me, so I send you.”

“he showed them his hands and side. … Jesus said to them again, “Peace be with you! As the Father sent me, so I send you.”

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Jesus’ metaphor for mission workers

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Luke 10:2-4

“The harvest is plentiful, but the workers are few. Ask the Lord of the harvest, therefore, to send out workers into his harvest field. Go! I am sending you out like lambs among wolves. Do not take a purse or bag or sandals…”

“The harvest is plentiful, but the workers are few. Ask the Lord of the harvest, therefore, to send out workers into his harvest field. Go! I am sending you out like lambs among wolves. Do not take a purse or bag or sandals…”

“The harvest is plentiful, but the workers are few. Ask the Lord of the harvest, therefore, to send out workers into his harvest field. Go! I am sending you out like lambs among wolves. Do not take a purse or bag or sandals…”

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Missionary Paul regarding his ministry

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2 Corinthians 4:7

“But we have this treasure in jars of clay to show that this all-surpassing power is from God and not from us.”

“But we have this treasure in jars of clay to show that this all-surpassing power is from God and not from us.”

“But we have this treasure in jars of clay to show that this all-surpassing power is from God and not from us.”

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Missionary Paul regarding his ministry

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2 Corinthians 12:9-10

“But he said to me, “My grace is sufficient for you, for my power is made perfect in weakness.” Therefore I will boast all the more gladly about my weaknesses, so that Christ’s power may rest on me. That is why, for Christ’s sake, I delight in weaknesses, in insults, in hardships, in persecutions, in difficulties…”

“But he said to me, “My grace is sufficient for you, for my power is made perfect in weakness.” Therefore I will boast all the more gladly about my weaknesses, so that Christ’s power may rest on me. That is why, for Christ’s sake, I delight in weaknesses, in insults, in hardships, in persecutions, in difficulties…”

“But he said to me, “My grace is sufficient for you, for my power is made perfect in weakness.” Therefore I will boast all the more gladly about my weaknesses, so that Christ’s power may rest on me. That is why, for Christ’s sake, I delight in weaknesses, in insults, in hardships, in persecutions, in difficulties…”

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– ““Body of Christ” with many “members”Body of Christ” with many “members” (1 Cor. 12; Rom. 12) (1 Cor. 12; Rom. 12)

Global Global Partnering in Partnering in

MissionsMissions2. Motivations driving the 2. Motivations driving the visionvision

• Motivations arising from God's WordMotivations arising from God's Word

• Current global realities propelling the visionCurrent global realities propelling the vision

• New realities in the global ChurchNew realities in the global Church

– – Universal character of the Gospel and the Church Universal character of the Gospel and the Church (Gen. 3:15; 12:1-4; Is. 42, 49; Acts 2; Phil. 2; Rev. 7; etc.)(Gen. 3:15; 12:1-4; Is. 42, 49; Acts 2; Phil. 2; Rev. 7; etc.)

– – The witness of oneness; unity in diversityThe witness of oneness; unity in diversity (John 17; Eph. 4) (John 17; Eph. 4)

– – Ministry from a position of human weaknessMinistry from a position of human weakness(Luke 10:2-3; 22:27; Jn 20:20-21; 1 Cor. 2:2-5; 2 Cor. 4:7; 12:9-(Luke 10:2-3; 22:27; Jn 20:20-21; 1 Cor. 2:2-5; 2 Cor. 4:7; 12:9-10)10)

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Global Global Partnering in Partnering in

MissionsMissions2. Motivations driving the 2. Motivations driving the visionvision

• Motivations arising from God's WordMotivations arising from God's Word• Current global realities propelling the visionCurrent global realities propelling the vision

• New realities in the global ChurchNew realities in the global Church

What What in the world in the world is happening?is happening?

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Global Global Partnering in Partnering in

MissionsMissions2. Motivations driving the 2. Motivations driving the visionvision

• Motivations arising from God's WordMotivations arising from God's Word• Current global realities propelling the visionCurrent global realities propelling the vision

• New realities in the global ChurchNew realities in the global Church

– post-colonial, nationalistic realitiespost-colonial, nationalistic realities– globalization: the ‘global village’globalization: the ‘global village’– pluralism: multi-cultural, multi-ethnic pluralism: multi-cultural, multi-ethnic

interfacinginterfacing– the growing global gap between rich & poorthe growing global gap between rich & poor

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Global Global Partnering in Partnering in

MissionsMissions2. Motivations driving the 2. Motivations driving the visionvision

• Motivations arising from God's WordMotivations arising from God's Word• Current global realities propelling the visionCurrent global realities propelling the vision

• New realities in the global ChurchNew realities in the global Church

– post-colonial, nationalistic realitiespost-colonial, nationalistic realities– globalization: the ‘global village’globalization: the ‘global village’– pluralism: multi-cultural, multi-ethnic pluralism: multi-cultural, multi-ethnic

interfacinginterfacing– the growing global gap between rich & poorthe growing global gap between rich & poor

– post-colonial, nationalistic realitiespost-colonial, nationalistic realities

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– post-colonial, nationalistic realitiespost-colonial, nationalistic realities

The great mission advance of the last couple centuries to a large degree was stamped by its connections to European (and American) colonialism, sometimes called ‘imperialism’.

Christian mission in modern history has typically been from churches in more-developed (often colonizing) countries to less-developed (often colonized) countries.

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– post-colonial, nationalistic realitiespost-colonial, nationalistic realities

As the age of colonialism has passed and independent nations affirm ever more vigorously their nationalism, the global church has had to adapt in order to continue her mission to the world.

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“…the visualization of the future of mission as a global task in which the churches of the North Atlantic world enter into creative patterns of partnership with churches in the Third World. …What is distinctive of the partnership proposed by this missiology is that the Third World churches are seen as agents and originators of a missionary effort and a missiological reflection that is valid in its own right. They are not simply being asked to join the missionary enterprise devised in a mission center of North America or Europe.”

(Samuel Escobar, “Evangelical Missiology: Peering into the Future”, in Taylor, Global Missiology for the 21st Century, 2000, p. 108)

“…the visualization of the future of mission as a global task in which the churches of the North Atlantic world enter into creative patterns of partnership with churches in the Third World. …What is distinctive of the partnership proposed by this missiology is that the Third World churches are seen as agents and originators of a missionary effort and a missiological reflection that is valid in its own right. They are not simply being asked to join the missionary enterprise devised in a mission center of North America or Europe.”

(Samuel Escobar, “Evangelical Missiology: Peering into the Future”, in Taylor, Global Missiology for the 21st Century, 2000, p. 108)

Samuel Escobar (from Peru), speaking of ‘post-imperial mission’, says it includes…

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Global Global Partnering in Partnering in

MissionsMissions2. Motivations driving the 2. Motivations driving the visionvision• Motivations arising from God's WordMotivations arising from God's Word

• Current global realities propelling the visionCurrent global realities propelling the vision

• New realities in the global ChurchNew realities in the global Church

– post-colonial, nationalistic realitiespost-colonial, nationalistic realities– globalization: the ‘global village’globalization: the ‘global village’– pluralism: multi-cultural, multi-ethnic pluralism: multi-cultural, multi-ethnic

interfacinginterfacing– the growing global gap between rich & poorthe growing global gap between rich & poor

– globalization: the ‘global village’globalization: the ‘global village’

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– globalization: the ‘global village’globalization: the ‘global village’

“Globalization” is much more than just an economic phenomenon.

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– globalization: the ‘global village’globalization: the ‘global village’

“Smaller” in that the physical distances are less limiting, the cost of travel is relatively more accessible, and mutual awareness and understanding of other parts of the world is greater than ever before.

Interconnected in the sense that—with the global spread of the internet—far greater opportunities exist now than ever before for more equal access to information and a more level opportunity for using it and collaborating globally.

The world has become “smaller” and more interconnected.

“Smaller”

Interconnected

Yes, it’s true… …most individuals in the world remain unconnected, but at an incredible pace, people from every part of

the world have begun to tap into the new electronic opportunities of interconnectivity.

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– globalization: the ‘global village’globalization: the ‘global village’

Growing global interconnectivity appears to be one of those era-altering dynamics (“paradigm shifts”) in world history that irrevocably reshapes societies, cultures, governments, business, education and even individuals in profound ways.

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– globalization: the ‘global village’globalization: the ‘global village’

How will we in Christ’s timeless, multi-national Church, entrusted with the changeless Gospel, carry forward the mission into today’s world as it changes in these profound ways?

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Global Global Partnering in Partnering in

MissionsMissions2.2. MotivationsMotivations drivingdriving thethe visionvision

• Motivations arising from God's WordMotivations arising from God's Word• Current global realities propelling the visionCurrent global realities propelling the vision

• New realities in the global ChurchNew realities in the global Church

– post-colonial, nationalistic realitiespost-colonial, nationalistic realities– globalization: the ‘global village’globalization: the ‘global village’– pluralism: multi-cultural, multi-ethnic pluralism: multi-cultural, multi-ethnic

interfacinginterfacing– the growing global gap between rich & poorthe growing global gap between rich & poor

– pluralism: multi-cultural, multi-ethnic interfacingpluralism: multi-cultural, multi-ethnic interfacing

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– pluralism: multi-cultural, multi-ethnic interfacingpluralism: multi-cultural, multi-ethnic interfacing

The world today presents us with much greater inter-ethnic interaction than ever before. People everywhere are confronted with the necessity — and more importantly, the opportunity — of relating to people of different cultures, languages, worldviews, and religions.

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Global Global Partnering in Partnering in

MissionsMissions2. Motivations driving the 2. Motivations driving the visionvision

• Motivations arising from God's WordMotivations arising from God's Word• Current global realities propelling the visionCurrent global realities propelling the vision

• New realities in the global ChurchNew realities in the global Church

– post-colonial, nationalistic realitiespost-colonial, nationalistic realities– globalization: the ‘global village’globalization: the ‘global village’– pluralism: multi-cultural, multi-ethnic pluralism: multi-cultural, multi-ethnic

interfacinginterfacing– the growing global gap between rich & poorthe growing global gap between rich & poor– the growing global gap between rich & poorthe growing global gap between rich & poor

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– the growing global gap between rich & poorthe growing global gap between rich & poor

A regrettable characteristic of recent history,with the advance of the forces of globalization,is the ever-growing inequalities in terms of wealth and opportunity around the world between the “connected” and the “unconnected”.

The rich get richer while the poor, in relative terms, fall further behind.

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– the growing global gap between rich & poorthe growing global gap between rich & poor

In 1960: the richest 20% of the world’s people had incomes 30 times greater than the incomes of the poorest 20%;

by 1997: it was 74 times as much!

(1999 Human Development Report, United Nations Development Programme)

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– the growing global gap between rich & poorthe growing global gap between rich & poor

An analysis of long-term trends shows the distance between the richest and poorest countries was about: • 3 to 1 in 1820 • 11 to 1 in 1913 • 35 to 1 in 1950 • 44 to 1 in 1973 • 72 to 1 in 1992

(1999 Human Development Report, United Nations Development Programme)

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– the growing global gap between rich & poorthe growing global gap between rich & poor

In 2005,

the wealthiest 20% of the world accounted for 76.6% of total private consumption.

The poorest 20% just 1.5%:

(Slide from www.globalissues.org)

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– the growing global gap between rich & poorthe growing global gap between rich & poor

How can we How can we

in Christ’s global, multi-national Church,in Christ’s global, multi-national Church,

as ambassadors of the God of mercy and as ambassadors of the God of mercy and witnesses to the compassionate Savior,witnesses to the compassionate Savior,

proclaim the Gospel amidst today’s realities,proclaim the Gospel amidst today’s realities,

•• attentive to the poor and marginalized, attentive to the poor and marginalized, andand

•• countering the perceived link betweencountering the perceived link between Christian missions and the wealthy West? Christian missions and the wealthy West?

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“God did not put us into this time in order to curse the wind, but to sail the ship. We will not stop the gathering storm of globalization. We will, with God’s help, harness the forces of globalization so that those very forces take us in the direction God wants, not the direction they are trying to blow us.”

(Stan Nussbaum, 2003, “Goads on Globalization”, Connections (June): p. 31.)

“God did not put us into this time in order to curse the wind, but to sail the ship. We will not stop the gathering storm of globalization. We will, with God’s help, harness the forces of globalization so that those very forces take us in the direction God wants, not the direction they are trying to blow us.”

(Stan Nussbaum, 2003, “Goads on Globalization”, Connections (June): p. 31.)

Stan Nussbaum on the challenge of globalization for Christians and the mission of the Gospel:

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Global Global Partnering in Partnering in

MissionsMissions2. Motivations driving the 2. Motivations driving the visionvision

• Motivations arising from God's WordMotivations arising from God's Word• Current global realities propelling the visionCurrent global realities propelling the vision

• New realities in the global ChurchNew realities in the global Church

– post-colonial, nationalistic realitiespost-colonial, nationalistic realities– globalization; the ‘global village’globalization; the ‘global village’– pluralism: multi-cultural, multi-ethnic pluralism: multi-cultural, multi-ethnic

interfacinginterfacing– the growing global gap between rich & poor the growing global gap between rich & poor

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Global Global Partnering in Partnering in

MissionsMissions2. Motivations driving the 2. Motivations driving the visionvision

• Motivations arising from God's WordMotivations arising from God's Word• Current global realities propelling the visionCurrent global realities propelling the vision

• New realities in the global ChurchNew realities in the global Church

What What in the world in the world

is happening is happening in the Churchin the Church??

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Global Global Partnering in Partnering in

MissionsMissions2. Motivations driving the 2. Motivations driving the visionvision

• Motivations arising from God's WordMotivations arising from God's Word• Current global realities propelling the visionCurrent global realities propelling the vision

• New realities in the global ChurchNew realities in the global Church – – dynamic growth of the Church in the ‘global dynamic growth of the Church in the ‘global south’south’ (for example, in Africa, Latin America and Asia) (for example, in Africa, Latin America and Asia) • • in the number of believers in the number of believers

• in strength of conviction and commitmentin strength of conviction and commitment• in spiritual maturity and vitality in spiritual maturity and vitality

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“Over the last five centuries, the story of Christianity has been inextricably bound up with that of Europe and European-derived civilizations overseas… Many of us share the stereotype of Christianity as the religion of the West or, to use another popular metaphor, the global North. It is self-evidently the religion of the haves. …”

“Over the last five centuries, the story of Christianity has been inextricably bound up with that of Europe and European-derived civilizations overseas… Many of us share the stereotype of Christianity as the religion of the West or, to use another popular metaphor, the global North. It is self-evidently the religion of the haves. …”

Philip Jenkins, having researched the history and trends of Christianity around the world, observes:

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“Over the last century, however, the center of gravity in the Christian world has shifted inexorably southward, to Africa and Latin America. Today, the largest Christian communities on the planet are to be found in those regions. … In parts of Asia too, churches are growing rapidly, in numbers and self-confidence.”

“Over the last century, however, the center of gravity in the Christian world has shifted inexorably southward, to Africa and Latin America. Today, the largest Christian communities on the planet are to be found in those regions. … In parts of Asia too, churches are growing rapidly, in numbers and self-confidence.”

Philip Jenkins, having researched the history and trends of Christianity around the world, observes:

“Over the last century, however, the center of gravity in the Christian world has shifted inexorably southward, to Africa and Latin America. Today, the largest Christian communities on the planet are to be found in those regions. … In parts of Asia too, churches are growing rapidly, in numbers and self-confidence.”

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“Christianity should enjoy a worldwide boom in the new century, but the vast majority of believers will be neither white nor Europeans, nor Euro-Americans.”

(Philip Jenkins, The Next Christendom: The coming of global Christianity, revised, 2007, Oxford Univ. Press, p. 1-2.)

“Christianity should enjoy a worldwide boom in the new century, but the vast majority of believers will be neither white nor Europeans, nor Euro-Americans.”

(Philip Jenkins, The Next Christendom: The coming of global Christianity, revised, 2007, Oxford Univ. Press, p. 1-2.)

Philip Jenkins, having researched the history and trends of Christianity around the world, observes:

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Global Global Partnering in Partnering in

MissionsMissions2. Motivations driving the 2. Motivations driving the visionvision

• Motivations arising from God's WordMotivations arising from God's Word• Current global realities propelling the visionCurrent global realities propelling the vision

• New realities in the global ChurchNew realities in the global Church – – dynamic growth of the Church in the ‘global dynamic growth of the Church in the ‘global south’south’ (for example, in Africa, Latin America and Asia) (for example, in Africa, Latin America and Asia) • • in the number of believers in the number of believers

• in strength of conviction and commitmentin strength of conviction and commitment• in spiritual maturity and vitality in spiritual maturity and vitality

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Global Global Partnering in Partnering in

MissionsMissions2. Motivations driving the 2. Motivations driving the visionvision

• Motivations arising from God's WordMotivations arising from God's Word• Current global realities propelling the visionCurrent global realities propelling the vision

• New realities in the global ChurchNew realities in the global Church

– – revising traditional conceptions of ‘sending revising traditional conceptions of ‘sending church’,church’, ‘mission field’, ‘missionary’, etc. ‘mission field’, ‘missionary’, etc.

– – dynamic growth of the Church in the ‘global dynamic growth of the Church in the ‘global south’south’ (for example, in Africa, Latin America and Asia) (for example, in Africa, Latin America and Asia)

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Global Global Partnering in Partnering in

MissionsMissions2. Motivations driving the 2. Motivations driving the visionvision

• Motivations arising from God's WordMotivations arising from God's Word• Current global realities propelling the visionCurrent global realities propelling the vision

• New realities in the global ChurchNew realities in the global Church – – dynamic growth of the Church in the ‘global dynamic growth of the Church in the ‘global south’south’ (for example, in Africa, Latin America and Asia) (for example, in Africa, Latin America and Asia) – – revising traditional conceptions of ‘sending revising traditional conceptions of ‘sending church’,church’, ‘mission field’, ‘missionary’, etc. ‘mission field’, ‘missionary’, etc.

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– – revising traditional conceptions of ‘sending revising traditional conceptions of ‘sending church’,church’, ‘mission field’, ‘missionary’, etc. ‘mission field’, ‘missionary’, etc.

It is long overdue to dispel outdated notions that churches in the West are the ‘sending churches’ who send western ‘missionaries’ through western ‘mission agencies’ to ‘mission fields’ in Africa, Asia or other non-western lands.

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– – revising traditional conceptions of ‘sending revising traditional conceptions of ‘sending church’,church’, ‘mission field’, ‘missionary’, etc. ‘mission field’, ‘missionary’, etc.

How can we How can we

in Christ’s global, multi-national Church,in Christ’s global, multi-national Church,

guided by the Holy Spirit,guided by the Holy Spirit,

break free of old paradigms and break free of old paradigms and creativelycreatively develop and utilize the distinctive gifts develop and utilize the distinctive gifts that God has given Christians in that God has given Christians in allall parts of the world for carrying out parts of the world for carrying out his mission to all nations? his mission to all nations?

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Global Global Partnering in Partnering in

MissionsMissions2. Motivations driving the 2. Motivations driving the visionvision

• Motivations arising from God's WordMotivations arising from God's Word• Current global realities propelling the visionCurrent global realities propelling the vision

• New realities in the global ChurchNew realities in the global Church – – dynamic growth of the Church in the ‘global dynamic growth of the Church in the ‘global south’south’ (for example, in Africa, Latin America and Asia) (for example, in Africa, Latin America and Asia) – – revising traditional conceptions of ‘sending revising traditional conceptions of ‘sending church’,church’, ‘mission field’, ‘missionary’, etc. ‘mission field’, ‘missionary’, etc. – – ‘‘mission from below’mission from below’

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Global Global Partnering in Partnering in

MissionsMissions2. Motivations driving the 2. Motivations driving the visionvision

• Motivations arising from God's WordMotivations arising from God's Word• Current global realities propelling the visionCurrent global realities propelling the vision

• New realities in the global ChurchNew realities in the global Church – – dynamic growth of the Church in the ‘global dynamic growth of the Church in the ‘global south’south’ (for example, in Africa, Latin America and Asia) (for example, in Africa, Latin America and Asia) – – revising traditional conceptions of ‘sending revising traditional conceptions of ‘sending church’,church’, ‘mission field’, ‘missionary’, etc. ‘mission field’, ‘missionary’, etc. – – ‘‘mission from below’mission from below’

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– – ‘‘mission from below’mission from below’

Some have characterized traditional mission activity in recent centuries as ‘mission from above’, that is, from centers of power and wealth to the less powerful of the world. As the center of gravity of Christianity shifts southward, the Church finds itself more and more at the margins of the power of this world. Poor-to-poor and poor-to-rich mission has been designated ‘mission from below’ — from a position of this-worldly weakness.

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– – ‘‘mission from below’mission from below’

One quick but illustrative comparison:

Roughly speaking, an average pastor in the U.S. receives about 30 times as much support as an average pastor in Africa.Consider the contrast — and how it changes global mission dynamics! — when missionary salaries are set based on salaries of pastors in their home church.

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– – ‘‘mission from below’mission from below’

Christ’s mission, as is clearly revealed in the New Testament, has always been a ministry that does NOT find its strength in earthly resources or power, but in the spiritual resources of the Word of God and the power of the Holy Spirit. However, sometimes the Church forgets this and is tempted to rely more on the material resources it can gather. Could it be that the challenge of ‘mission from below’ might prove to be beneficial for the advance of the Gospel in the world today?

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“In the cross, Jesus Christ died for our salvation and also left a pattern for missionary life. … This Christological model that was also the pattern under which Paul and the other apostles placed their own missionary practice could be described as ‘mission from below.’” …

[It is] “necessary to consider a new paradigm, because the dynamism for mission is coming now from the periphery of the world, from the churches of the poor, as well as from Christians in the West that have to live as ‘resident aliens’ in a post-modern culture.”

(Samuel Escobar, “The Global Scenario at the turn of the century”, in Taylor, Global Missiology for the 21st Century, 2000, p. 43-44)

“In the cross, Jesus Christ died for our salvation and also left a pattern for missionary life. … This Christological model that was also the pattern under which Paul and the other apostles placed their own missionary practice could be described as ‘mission from below.’” …

[It is] “necessary to consider a new paradigm, because the dynamism for mission is coming now from the periphery of the world, from the churches of the poor, as well as from Christians in the West that have to live as ‘resident aliens’ in a post-modern culture.”

(Samuel Escobar, “The Global Scenario at the turn of the century”, in Taylor, Global Missiology for the 21st Century, 2000, p. 43-44)

Samuel Escobar on “Biblical patterns for mission”:

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– – ‘‘mission from below’mission from below’

This, in part, is what Luther — and Lutherans till today —

meant by the

theology of the cross

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“Christianity is flourishing wonderfully among the poor and persecuted, while it atrophies among the rich and secure. … And whether we look backward or forward in history, we can see that time and again, Christianity demonstrates a breathtaking ability to transform weakness into strength.”

(Philip Jenkins, The Next Christendom: The coming of global Christianity, revised, 2007, Oxford Univ. Press, p. 260-61.)

“Christianity is flourishing wonderfully among the poor and persecuted, while it atrophies among the rich and secure. … And whether we look backward or forward in history, we can see that time and again, Christianity demonstrates a breathtaking ability to transform weakness into strength.”

(Philip Jenkins, The Next Christendom: The coming of global Christianity, revised, 2007, Oxford Univ. Press, p. 260-61.)

Philip Jenkins concludes his in-depth study of global Christianity observing:

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Global Global Partnering in Partnering in

MissionsMissions2. Motivations driving the 2. Motivations driving the visionvision

• Motivations arising from God's WordMotivations arising from God's Word• Current global realities propelling the visionCurrent global realities propelling the vision

• New realities in the global ChurchNew realities in the global Church – – dynamic growth of the Church in the ‘global dynamic growth of the Church in the ‘global south’south’ (for example, in Africa, Latin America and Asia) (for example, in Africa, Latin America and Asia) – – revising traditional conceptions of ‘sending revising traditional conceptions of ‘sending church’,church’, ‘mission field’, ‘missionary’, etc. ‘mission field’, ‘missionary’, etc. – – ‘‘mission from below’mission from below’

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Global Global Partnering in Partnering in

MissionsMissions3. The contexts of the vision3. The contexts of the vision

Where?Where? What are the contexts demanding What are the contexts demanding

such a vision?such a vision?……and that and that define the parameters in which define the parameters in which

this project would be implemented? this project would be implemented?

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Global Global Partnering in Partnering in

MissionsMissions3. The contexts of the vision3. The contexts of the visionCCONTEXTONTEXT 1: Billions of lost people in our 21st 1: Billions of lost people in our 21st

century world.century world.

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More than 4,500,000,000 of the More than 4,500,000,000 of the more than 6,700,000,000 people in more than 6,700,000,000 people in the world today are lost -- without the world today are lost -- without

Christ and without hope.Christ and without hope.

More than 4,500,000,000 of the More than 4,500,000,000 of the more than 6,700,000,000 people in more than 6,700,000,000 people in the world today are lost -- without the world today are lost -- without

Christ and without hope.Christ and without hope.

More than More than 4,500,000,0004,500,000,000 of the of the more than 6,700,000,000 people in more than 6,700,000,000 people in the world today the world today are lostare lost -- without -- without

Christ and without hope.Christ and without hope.

More than More than 4,500,000,0004,500,000,000 of the of the more than 6,700,000,000 people in more than 6,700,000,000 people in the world today the world today are lostare lost -- without -- without

Christ and without hope.Christ and without hope.

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Global Global Partnering in Partnering in

MissionsMissions3. The contexts of the vision3. The contexts of the visionCCONTEXTONTEXT 1: Billions of lost people in our 21st 1: Billions of lost people in our 21st

century world.century world.

CCONTEXTONTEXT 2: Our pluralistic ‘global village’: in 2: Our pluralistic ‘global village’: in which the frontiers of mission are which the frontiers of mission are not primarily geographical.not primarily geographical.

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The true frontiers of mission have always been The true frontiers of mission have always been defined by invisible boundaries separating Christians defined by invisible boundaries separating Christians from those who do not believe in Christ --- from those who do not believe in Christ --- boundaries which correspond less and less to boundaries which correspond less and less to national boundaries.national boundaries.

Christians are found in every continent, nation, and Christians are found in every continent, nation, and culture – just as the lost are also in every location.culture – just as the lost are also in every location.

The true frontiers of mission have always been The true frontiers of mission have always been defined by invisible boundaries separating Christians defined by invisible boundaries separating Christians from those who do not believe in Christ --- from those who do not believe in Christ --- boundaries which correspond less and less to boundaries which correspond less and less to national boundaries.national boundaries.

Christians are found in every continent, nation, and Christians are found in every continent, nation, and culture – just as the lost are also in every location.culture – just as the lost are also in every location.

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Global Global Partnering in Partnering in

MissionsMissions3. The contexts of the vision3. The contexts of the visionCCONTEXTONTEXT 1: Billions of lost people in our 21st 1: Billions of lost people in our 21st

century world.century world.

CCONTEXTONTEXT 2: Our pluralistic ‘global village’: in 2: Our pluralistic ‘global village’: in which the frontiers of mission are which the frontiers of mission are not primarily geographical.not primarily geographical.

CCONTEXTONTEXT 3: 3: Confessional and LutheranConfessional and Lutheran

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CCONFESSIONALONFESSIONAL and L and LUTHERANUTHERAN

This vision for global partnering in missions is conceived This vision for global partnering in missions is conceived as an opportunity to be pursued as an opportunity to be pursued within the confessional within the confessional Lutheran global communityLutheran global community. .

It is not motivated by separatism, nor does it seek to be It is not motivated by separatism, nor does it seek to be exclusive. exclusive.

It rather rejoices in the clear, Biblical confession of faith It rather rejoices in the clear, Biblical confession of faith proclaimed in the proclaimed in the Lutheran ConfessionsLutheran Confessions, understanding , understanding such unashamed confession of divine truth as:such unashamed confession of divine truth as:

fundamentalfundamental to every mission endeavor, and to every mission endeavor, and

that which that which rallies us to full engagement in rallies us to full engagement in

missionmission!!

CCONFESSIONALONFESSIONAL and L and LUTHERANUTHERAN

This vision for global partnering in missions is conceived This vision for global partnering in missions is conceived as an opportunity to be pursued as an opportunity to be pursued within the confessional within the confessional Lutheran global communityLutheran global community. .

It is not motivated by separatism, nor does it seek to be It is not motivated by separatism, nor does it seek to be exclusive. exclusive.

It rather rejoices in the clear, Biblical confession of faith It rather rejoices in the clear, Biblical confession of faith proclaimed in the proclaimed in the Lutheran ConfessionsLutheran Confessions, understanding , understanding such unashamed confession of divine truth as:such unashamed confession of divine truth as:

fundamentalfundamental to every mission endeavor, and to every mission endeavor, and

that which that which rallies us to full engagement in rallies us to full engagement in

missionmission!!

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CCONTEXTONTEXT 1: Billions of lost people in our 21 1: Billions of lost people in our 21stst century world.century world.

Global Global Partnering in Partnering in

MissionsMissions3. 3. The contexts of the visionThe contexts of the vision

CCONTEXTONTEXT 2: Our pluralistic ‘global village’: in 2: Our pluralistic ‘global village’: in which the frontiers of mission are which the frontiers of mission are not primarily geographical.not primarily geographical.

CCONTEXTONTEXT 3: 3: Confessional and LutheranConfessional and Lutheran

CCONTEXTONTEXT 4: 4: Specifically, partner churches in the Specifically, partner churches in the International Lutheran CouncilInternational Lutheran Council (ILC) (ILC)

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PPARTNER CHURCHES OF THE ARTNER CHURCHES OF THE INTERNATIONAL LUTHERAN COUNCILINTERNATIONAL LUTHERAN COUNCIL

What is the ILC?What is the ILC?

“ “The ILC is a worldwide association of establishedThe ILC is a worldwide association of established confessional Lutheran church bodies which confessional Lutheran church bodies which proclaim theproclaim the Gospel of Jesus Christ on the basis of an Gospel of Jesus Christ on the basis of an unconditionalunconditional commitment to the Holy Scriptures as the inspired commitment to the Holy Scriptures as the inspired andand infallible Word of God and to the Lutheran infallible Word of God and to the Lutheran ConfessionsConfessions contained in the Book of Concord as the true and contained in the Book of Concord as the true and faithfulfaithful exposition of the Word of God. ” exposition of the Word of God. ” [from ILC website: www.ilc-online.org][from ILC website: www.ilc-online.org]

PPARTNER CHURCHES OF THE ARTNER CHURCHES OF THE INTERNATIONAL LUTHERAN COUNCILINTERNATIONAL LUTHERAN COUNCIL

What is the ILC?What is the ILC?

“ “The ILC is a worldwide association of establishedThe ILC is a worldwide association of established confessional Lutheran church bodies which confessional Lutheran church bodies which proclaim theproclaim the Gospel of Jesus Christ on the basis of an Gospel of Jesus Christ on the basis of an unconditionalunconditional commitment to the Holy Scriptures as the inspired commitment to the Holy Scriptures as the inspired andand infallible Word of God and to the Lutheran infallible Word of God and to the Lutheran ConfessionsConfessions contained in the Book of Concord as the true and contained in the Book of Concord as the true and faithfulfaithful exposition of the Word of God. ” exposition of the Word of God. ” [from ILC website: www.ilc-online.org][from ILC website: www.ilc-online.org]

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PPARTNER CHURCHES OF THE ARTNER CHURCHES OF THE INTERNATIONAL LUTHERAN COUNCILINTERNATIONAL LUTHERAN COUNCIL

What is the ILC?What is the ILC?

“ “The ILC is a worldwide association of establishedThe ILC is a worldwide association of established confessional Lutheran church bodies which confessional Lutheran church bodies which proclaim theproclaim the Gospel of Jesus Christ on the basis of an Gospel of Jesus Christ on the basis of an unconditionalunconditional commitment to the Holy Scriptures as the inspired commitment to the Holy Scriptures as the inspired andand infallible Word of God and to the Lutheran infallible Word of God and to the Lutheran ConfessionsConfessions contained in the Book of Concord as the true and contained in the Book of Concord as the true and faithfulfaithful exposition of the Word of God. ” exposition of the Word of God. ” [from ILC website: www.ilc-online.org][from ILC website: www.ilc-online.org]

PPARTNER CHURCHES OF THE ARTNER CHURCHES OF THE INTERNATIONAL LUTHERAN COUNCILINTERNATIONAL LUTHERAN COUNCIL

What is the ILC?What is the ILC?

“ “The ILC is a worldwide association of establishedThe ILC is a worldwide association of established confessional Lutheran church bodies which confessional Lutheran church bodies which proclaim theproclaim the Gospel of Jesus Christ on the basis of an Gospel of Jesus Christ on the basis of an unconditionalunconditional commitment to the Holy Scriptures as the inspired commitment to the Holy Scriptures as the inspired andand infallible Word of God and to the Lutheran infallible Word of God and to the Lutheran ConfessionsConfessions contained in the Book of Concord as the true and contained in the Book of Concord as the true and faithfulfaithful exposition of the Word of God. ” exposition of the Word of God. ” [from ILC website: www.ilc-online.org][from ILC website: www.ilc-online.org]

PPARTNER CHURCHES OF THE ARTNER CHURCHES OF THE INTERNATIONAL LUTHERAN COUNCILINTERNATIONAL LUTHERAN COUNCIL

The vision presented here for global partnering in The vision presented here for global partnering in missions chooses to focus on partnerships among those missions chooses to focus on partnerships among those church bodies united in confession in the ILC. church bodies united in confession in the ILC.

It would not of necessity exclude possible collaboration It would not of necessity exclude possible collaboration with other churches (for example, confessional Lutheran with other churches (for example, confessional Lutheran churches who are not in the ILC), but it would seek to churches who are not in the ILC), but it would seek to build on the cooperation that is already established among build on the cooperation that is already established among the 34 ILC member churches.the 34 ILC member churches.

PPARTNER CHURCHES OF THE ARTNER CHURCHES OF THE INTERNATIONAL LUTHERAN COUNCILINTERNATIONAL LUTHERAN COUNCIL

The vision presented here for global partnering in The vision presented here for global partnering in missions chooses to focus on partnerships among those missions chooses to focus on partnerships among those church bodies united in confession in the ILC. church bodies united in confession in the ILC.

It would not of necessity exclude possible collaboration It would not of necessity exclude possible collaboration with other churches (for example, confessional Lutheran with other churches (for example, confessional Lutheran churches who are not in the ILC), but it would seek to churches who are not in the ILC), but it would seek to build on the cooperation that is already established among build on the cooperation that is already established among the 34 ILC member churches.the 34 ILC member churches.

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CCONTEXTONTEXT 1: Billions of lost people in our 21 1: Billions of lost people in our 21stst century world.century world.

Global Global Partnering in Partnering in

MissionsMissions3. The contexts of the vision3. The contexts of the vision

CCONTEXTONTEXT 2: Our pluralistic ‘global village’: in 2: Our pluralistic ‘global village’: in which the frontiers of mission are which the frontiers of mission are not primarily geographical.not primarily geographical.

CCONTEXTONTEXT 3: 3: Confessional and LutheranConfessional and Lutheran

CCONTEXTONTEXT 4: 4: Specifically, partner churches in the Specifically, partner churches in the International Lutheran CouncilInternational Lutheran Council (ILC) (ILC)

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Global Global Partnering in Partnering in

MissionsMissions4. Historical background4. Historical background

WhatWhatcan we learn fromcan we learn from

history?history?

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• Historical dynamics of ‘church/mission’ relationships Historical dynamics of ‘church/mission’ relationships

Global Global Partnering in Partnering in

MissionsMissions4. Historical background4. Historical background

• Historical dynamics of relationships in the ILCHistorical dynamics of relationships in the ILC

• The growth of the ILCThe growth of the ILC

• Types of international partnershipsTypes of international partnerships

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• Historical dynamics of ‘church/mission’ relationships Historical dynamics of ‘church/mission’ relationships

Global Global Partnering in Partnering in

MissionsMissions4. Historical background4. Historical background

• Historical dynamics of relationships in the Historical dynamics of relationships in the ILCILC

• The growth of the ILCThe growth of the ILC

• Types of international partnershipsTypes of international partnerships

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• Historical dynamics of ‘church/mission’ relationships Historical dynamics of ‘church/mission’ relationships

Global Global Partnering in Partnering in

MissionsMissions4. Historical background4. Historical background

• Historical dynamics of relationships in the ILCHistorical dynamics of relationships in the ILC• The growth of the ILCThe growth of the ILC• Types of international partnershipsTypes of international partnerships

– traditional models of doing ‘missions’traditional models of doing ‘missions’

– paternalismpaternalism

– dependencydependency– redefining church/mission relationships redefining church/mission relationships (4 responses)(4 responses)

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• Historical dynamics of ‘church/mission’ relationships Historical dynamics of ‘church/mission’ relationships

Global Global Partnering in Partnering in

MissionsMissions4. Historical background4. Historical background

• Historical dynamics of relationships in the ILCHistorical dynamics of relationships in the ILC• The growth of the ILCThe growth of the ILC• Types of international partnershipsTypes of international partnerships

– traditional models of doing ‘missions’traditional models of doing ‘missions’

– paternalismpaternalism

– dependencydependency– redefining church/mission relationships redefining church/mission relationships (4 responses)(4 responses)

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• Historical dynamics of ‘church/mission’ relationships Historical dynamics of ‘church/mission’ relationships

Global Global Partnering in Partnering in

MissionsMissions4. Historical background4. Historical background

• Historical dynamics of relationships in the ILCHistorical dynamics of relationships in the ILC• The growth of the ILCThe growth of the ILC• Types of international partnershipsTypes of international partnerships

– traditional models of doing ‘missions’traditional models of doing ‘missions’

MMODELODEL B: ‘churches' doing 'missions’ B: ‘churches' doing 'missions’

MMODELODEL A: ‘missions’ starting ‘churches’ A: ‘missions’ starting ‘churches’

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• Historical dynamics of ‘church/mission’ relationships Historical dynamics of ‘church/mission’ relationships

Global Global Partnering in Partnering in

MissionsMissions4. Historical background4. Historical background

• Historical dynamics of relationships in the ILCHistorical dynamics of relationships in the ILC• The growth of the ILCThe growth of the ILC• Types of international partnershipsTypes of international partnerships

– traditional models of doing ‘missions’traditional models of doing ‘missions’

MMODELODEL B: ‘churches' doing 'missions’ B: ‘churches' doing 'missions’

MMODELODEL A: ‘missions’ starting ‘churches’ A: ‘missions’ starting ‘churches’

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Independent mission agencies Independent mission agencies starting ‘churches’starting ‘churches’

Mission Mission agencyagency

IndividualsIndividualsand and congregationscongregationsof various of various denominations..denominations....

...support ...support independent independent mission mission agency in agency in sending sending missionariesmissionaries......

...to ...to evangelize evangelize and start and start new new congregatiocongregations& ns& ‘churches’.‘churches’.

MMISSIONISSION

MMODELODEL

AA::

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Mission Mission agencyagency

IndividualsIndividualsand and congregationscongregationsof various of various denominations..denominations....

...support ...support independent independent mission mission agency in agency in sending sending missionariesmissionaries......

...to ...to evangelize evangelize and start and start new new congregatiocongregations& ns& ‘churches’.‘churches’.

MMISSIONISSION

MMODELODEL

AA::

Independent mission agencies Independent mission agencies starting ‘churches’starting ‘churches’

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MMODELODEL B: ‘churches' doing 'missions’ B: ‘churches' doing 'missions’

MMODELODEL A: ‘missions’ starting ‘churches’ A: ‘missions’ starting ‘churches’

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National church forms internal mission National church forms internal mission agency to conduct mission workagency to conduct mission work

Churches of Churches of same same confessionconfessionjoin to form a join to form a national church national church (synod)... (synod)...

...which ...which undertakes undertakes mission work to mission work to other countries other countries on behalf of its on behalf of its congregations...congregations...

...to ...to evangelize evangelize and start and start new new congregatiocongregations& ns& churches of churches of the same the same denominatiodenomination.n.

Mission Mission “board”“board”

MMISSIONISSION

MMODELODEL

BB::

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Churches of Churches of same same confessionconfessionjoin to form a join to form a national church national church (synod)... (synod)...

...which ...which undertakes undertakes mission work to mission work to other countries other countries on behalf of its on behalf of its congregations...congregations...

...to ...to evangelize evangelize and start and start new new congregatiocongregations& ns& churches of churches of the same the same confession.confession.

National church forms internal mission National church forms internal mission agency to conduct mission workagency to conduct mission work

MMISSIONISSION

MMODELODEL

BB::

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Churches of Churches of same same confessionconfessionjoin to form a join to form a national church national church (synod)... (synod)...

...which ...which undertakes undertakes mission work to mission work to other countries other countries on behalf of its on behalf of its congregations...congregations...

...to ...to evangelize evangelize and start and start new new congregatiocongregations& ns& churches of churches of the same the same confession.confession.

EEXAMPLEXAMPLE (LCMS): Lutheran congregations (LCMS): Lutheran congregations form a synod,form a synod,

which in turn establishes synodical which in turn establishes synodical “Board for“Board for Missions” to call and send Missions” to call and send missionaries, missionaries,

from which have arisen new from which have arisen new nationalnational Lutheran churches in other Lutheran churches in other countries.countries.

National church forms internal mission National church forms internal mission agency to conduct mission workagency to conduct mission work

MMISSIONISSION

MMODELODEL

BB::

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Churches of Churches of same same confessionconfessionjoin to form a join to form a national church national church (synod)... (synod)...

...which ...which undertakes undertakes mission work to mission work to other countries other countries on behalf of its on behalf of its congregations...congregations...

...to ...to evangelize evangelize and start and start new new congregatiocongregations& ns& churches of churches of the same the same confession.confession.

National church forms internal mission National church forms internal mission agency to conduct mission workagency to conduct mission work

MMISSIONISSION MMODELODEL BB::

Lutheran understanding of biblical Lutheran understanding of biblical teaching about the Church and the office of teaching about the Church and the office of the ministry of the Gospel argues for a the ministry of the Gospel argues for a mission model that regards mission mission model that regards mission outreach as an outreach as an essential aspect essential aspect of the of the Church and its ministry to the world.Church and its ministry to the world.

Lutheran churches, therefore have Lutheran churches, therefore have typically preferred models, such as typically preferred models, such as “M“MODELODEL B” B” in this presentation, where the mission is in this presentation, where the mission is undertaken by and through the Church in a undertaken by and through the Church in a direct way.direct way.

Page 93: G pi m project concept 2008 rvsd

• Historical dynamics of ‘church/mission’ relationships Historical dynamics of ‘church/mission’ relationships

Global Global Partnering in Partnering in

MissionsMissions4. Historical background4. Historical background

• Historical dynamics of relationships in the ILCHistorical dynamics of relationships in the ILC• The growth of the ILCThe growth of the ILC• Types of international partnershipsTypes of international partnerships

– traditional models of doing ‘missions’traditional models of doing ‘missions’

– paternalismpaternalism

– dependencydependency– redefining church/mission relationships redefining church/mission relationships (4 responses)(4 responses)

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– paternalismpaternalism

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Paternalism in missionsPaternalism in missions refers to ways in refers to ways in which the “sending” churches of the “West” have which the “sending” churches of the “West” have tended to supervise, direct, and supply the needs of tended to supervise, direct, and supply the needs of younger “receiving” churches in developing (“two-younger “receiving” churches in developing (“two-thirds world”) countries. thirds world”) countries.

The flow has been typically in one direction: The flow has been typically in one direction: fromfrom the wealthy and developed West the wealthy and developed West toto the “mission” the “mission” churches. churches.

The dominant churches tended to supply not only the The dominant churches tended to supply not only the theology for these churches, and not only the great theology for these churches, and not only the great majority of material resources. They also often brought, majority of material resources. They also often brought, with the Gospel, their own cultures, forms, structures with the Gospel, their own cultures, forms, structures and church governments.and church governments.

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• Historical dynamics of ‘church/mission’ relationships Historical dynamics of ‘church/mission’ relationships

Global Global Partnering in Partnering in

MissionsMissions4. Historical background4. Historical background

• Historical dynamics of relationships in the ILCHistorical dynamics of relationships in the ILC• The growth of the ILCThe growth of the ILC• Types of international partnershipsTypes of international partnerships

– traditional models of doing ‘missions’traditional models of doing ‘missions’

– paternalismpaternalism

– dependencydependency– redefining church/mission relationships redefining church/mission relationships (4 responses)(4 responses)

fostersfosters

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Patterns of Patterns of dependencydependency have, at times, have, at times, been the unintended consequence of been the unintended consequence of paternalistic approaches in church/mission – paternalistic approaches in church/mission – and subsequent church/partner church – and subsequent church/partner church – relationships. relationships.

This has begun to change, but remains a This has begun to change, but remains a challenge in global relationships and challenge in global relationships and collaboration. collaboration.

“To keep the mission functioning

the way the missionaries did, we

need money, and cars, and we need

hymn books, and we need...”

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“Partnership is a wonderful idea; pity the practice! Truly equal sharing will remain problematic across the world Church as long as material resources are so unevenly owned.” (Kirk, J. Andrew. 1999. What is Mission? Theological Explorations.

London: Longman & Todd.)

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“Partnership is a wonderful idea; pity the practice! Truly equal sharing will remain problematic across the world Church as long as material resources are so unevenly owned.” (Kirk, J. Andrew. 1999. What is Mission? Theological Explorations.

London: Longman & Todd.)

What is necessary is to recognize and What is necessary is to recognize and appreciate the gifts and resources God has appreciate the gifts and resources God has given to each member of his body – whether given to each member of his body – whether in poorer or richer countries – for carrying out in poorer or richer countries – for carrying out his ministry to the world.his ministry to the world.

Page 100: G pi m project concept 2008 rvsd

• Historical dynamics of ‘church/mission’ relationships Historical dynamics of ‘church/mission’ relationships

Global Global Partnering in Partnering in

MissionsMissions4. Historical background4. Historical background

• Historical dynamics of relationships in the ILCHistorical dynamics of relationships in the ILC• The growth of the ILCThe growth of the ILC• Types of international partnershipsTypes of international partnerships

– traditional models of doing ‘missions’traditional models of doing ‘missions’

– paternalismpaternalism

– dependencydependency– redefining church/mission relationships redefining church/mission relationships (4 responses)(4 responses)

Page 101: G pi m project concept 2008 rvsd

• Historical dynamics of ‘church/mission’ relationships Historical dynamics of ‘church/mission’ relationships

Global Global Partnering in Partnering in

MissionsMissions4. Historical background4. Historical background

• Historical dynamics of relationships in the ILCHistorical dynamics of relationships in the ILC• The growth of the ILCThe growth of the ILC• Types of international partnershipsTypes of international partnerships

– traditional models of doing ‘missions’traditional models of doing ‘missions’

– paternalismpaternalism

– dependencydependency– redefining church/mission relationships redefining church/mission relationships (4 responses)(4 responses)

Page 102: G pi m project concept 2008 rvsd

Redefining church/mission Redefining church/mission relationships relationships

1. Departure

We can recognize We can recognize 4 responses4 responses to the need to to the need to redefine relationships between the emerging and redefine relationships between the emerging and maturing maturing national churchesnational churches and the and the mission mission organizationsorganizations that birthed them. that birthed them.

2. Subordination

3. Working in parallel

4. Partnership

Some historically have advocated Some historically have advocated that the mission organization, that the mission organization, after planting a new church, after planting a new church, should should withdraw completelywithdraw completely and and permit the church to carry permit the church to carry forward the ministry and mission forward the ministry and mission of Christ in the country of Christ in the country independently.independently.

Page 103: G pi m project concept 2008 rvsd

Redefining church/mission Redefining church/mission relationships relationships

1. Departure

2. Subordination

3. Working in parallel

4. Partnership

A second option was to continue A second option was to continue to send missionaries to the to send missionaries to the particular mission field, only now particular mission field, only now they should they should function under the function under the new national churchnew national church rather than rather than under the direction of their under the direction of their mission organization.mission organization.

We can recognize We can recognize 4 responses4 responses to the need to to the need to redefine relationships between the emerging and redefine relationships between the emerging and maturing maturing national churchesnational churches and the and the mission mission organizationsorganizations that birthed them. that birthed them.

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Redefining church/mission Redefining church/mission relationships relationships

1. Departure

2. Subordination

3. Working in parallel

4. Partnership

Others argued that the mission Others argued that the mission should neither withdraw nor should neither withdraw nor place its work under the new place its work under the new national church, but that it should national church, but that it should continue its mission commitment continue its mission commitment in parallelin parallel with with the new church, the new church, each working each working separately and separately and independentlyindependently of the other. of the other.

We can recognize We can recognize 4 responses4 responses to the need to to the need to redefine relationships between the emerging and redefine relationships between the emerging and maturing maturing national churchesnational churches and the and the mission mission organizationsorganizations that birthed them. that birthed them.

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Redefining church/mission Redefining church/mission relationships relationships

1. Departure

2. Subordination

3. Working in parallel

4. Partnership

But a fourth option, But a fourth option, partnershippartnership, , is is central to the vision here proposed. central to the vision here proposed.

In partnerships, churches and In partnerships, churches and missions missions — — irrespective of national irrespective of national origin origin — find ways of working — find ways of working together to continue the mission and together to continue the mission and ministry of the Church. ministry of the Church.

It is It is interinterdependence instead of dependence instead of inindependence. dependence.

We can recognize We can recognize 4 responses4 responses to the need to to the need to redefine relationships between the emerging and redefine relationships between the emerging and maturing maturing national churchesnational churches and the and the mission mission organizationsorganizations that birthed them. that birthed them.

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Redefining church/mission Redefining church/mission relationships relationships

1. Departure

2. Subordination

3. Working in parallel

4. Partnership

This option seeks to fully This option seeks to fully appreciate the diversity of the appreciate the diversity of the one global body of Christone global body of Christ, with , with all members joining together in all members joining together in answering the call to make answering the call to make disciples of all nations.disciples of all nations.

Each Each partnerpartnerbrings its brings its unique giftsunique gifts to the partnershipto the partnership..

We can recognize We can recognize 4 responses4 responses to the need to to the need to redefine relationships between the emerging and redefine relationships between the emerging and maturing maturing national churchesnational churches and the and the mission mission organizationsorganizations that birthed them. that birthed them.

Page 107: G pi m project concept 2008 rvsd

Redefining church/mission Redefining church/mission relationships relationships

1. Departure

2. Subordination

3. Working in parallel

4. Partnership

Critics of this approach rightly Critics of this approach rightly point out the point out the complexitiescomplexities of of bridging the bridging the economiceconomic disparities, disparities, ethno-culturalethno-cultural differences, and differences, and organizationalorganizational diversity brought diversity brought together in such partnerships.together in such partnerships. Indeed,Indeed, how how to address to address such such complexities is one of the central complexities is one of the central motivations behind the motivations behind the researchresearch proposed here.proposed here.

We can recognize We can recognize 4 responses4 responses to the need to to the need to redefine relationships between the emerging and redefine relationships between the emerging and maturing maturing national churchesnational churches and the and the mission mission organizationsorganizations that birthed them. that birthed them.

Page 108: G pi m project concept 2008 rvsd

• Historical dynamics of ‘church/mission’ relationships Historical dynamics of ‘church/mission’ relationships

Global Global Partnering in Partnering in

MissionsMissions4. Historical background4. Historical background

• Historical dynamics of relationships in the ILCHistorical dynamics of relationships in the ILC• The growth of the ILCThe growth of the ILC• Types of international partnershipsTypes of international partnerships

– traditional models of doing ‘missions’traditional models of doing ‘missions’

– paternalismpaternalism

– dependencydependency– redefining church/mission relationships redefining church/mission relationships (4 responses)(4 responses)

Page 109: G pi m project concept 2008 rvsd

• Historical dynamics of ‘church/mission’ relationships Historical dynamics of ‘church/mission’ relationships

Global Global Partnering in Partnering in

MissionsMissions4. Historical background4. Historical background

• Historical dynamics of relationships in the ILCHistorical dynamics of relationships in the ILC

• The growth of the ILCThe growth of the ILC• Types of international partnershipsTypes of international partnerships

– many of the ILC member churches were many of the ILC member churches were former ‘missions’ of the LCMSformer ‘missions’ of the LCMS

– often LCMS related in paternalistic waysoften LCMS related in paternalistic ways

– often patterns of dependency were often patterns of dependency were unintentionally fosteredunintentionally fostered

Page 110: G pi m project concept 2008 rvsd

• Historical dynamics of ‘church/mission’ relationships Historical dynamics of ‘church/mission’ relationships

Global Global Partnering in Partnering in

MissionsMissions4. Historical background4. Historical background

• Historical dynamics of relationships in the ILCHistorical dynamics of relationships in the ILC

• The growth of the ILCThe growth of the ILC• Types of international partnershipsTypes of international partnerships

– many of the ILC member churches were many of the ILC member churches were former ‘missions’ of the LCMSformer ‘missions’ of the LCMS

– often LCMS related in paternalistic waysoften LCMS related in paternalistic ways

– often patterns of dependency were often patterns of dependency were unintentionally fosteredunintentionally fostered

Page 111: G pi m project concept 2008 rvsd

• Historical dynamics of ‘church/mission’ relationships Historical dynamics of ‘church/mission’ relationships

Global Global Partnering in Partnering in

MissionsMissions4. Historical background4. Historical background

• Historical dynamics of relationships in the ILCHistorical dynamics of relationships in the ILC

• The growth of the ILCThe growth of the ILC

• Types of international partnershipsTypes of international partnerships

– LCMS is largest partner and has dominated LCMS is largest partner and has dominated the ILCthe ILC

– but many younger ILC churches are growingbut many younger ILC churches are growing

Page 112: G pi m project concept 2008 rvsd

Countries in which ILC member churches are Countries in which ILC member churches are located.located.

The countries in blue show where ILC member The countries in blue show where ILC member churches are found. churches are found.

In the following slides we will be portraying each ILC member church (in descending order according to membership).

But remember while viewing… Size isn’t everything. Some of the churches, for example, are growing rapidly while others are static. And membership numbers are not precise.

Also… Membership figures do not show the varieties of gifts that each member church — small or large — brings to the global body (e.g., material resources, personnel with various gifts, linguistic and cultural competencies, etc.).

In the following slides we will be portraying each ILC member church (in descending order according to membership).

But remember while viewing… Size isn’t everything. Some of the churches, for example, are growing rapidly while others are static. And membership numbers are not precise.

Also… Membership figures do not show the varieties of gifts that each member church — small or large — brings to the global body (e.g., material resources, personnel with various gifts, linguistic and cultural competencies, etc.).

Page 113: G pi m project concept 2008 rvsd

Countries in which ILC member churches are Countries in which ILC member churches are located.located.

The largest churches The largest churches (over 100,000 baptized (over 100,000 baptized members):members):

(( = 100,000 = 100,000 membersmembers))

The LCMSThe LCMS 2,490,000 2,490,000

IELB (Brazil)IELB (Brazil) 230,000 230,000

Gutnius Luth Ch Gutnius Luth Ch Papua New Papua New

GuineaGuinea 140,000 140,000

Luth Luth Church Church of of NigeriaNigeria 135,000135,000

Page 114: G pi m project concept 2008 rvsd

Countries in which ILC member churches are Countries in which ILC member churches are located.located.

ILC Churches with membership of ILC Churches with membership of 10,000 –10,000 –100,000:100,000:

(( = 100,000 = 100,000 membersmembers))

Luth Ch of KenyaLuth Ch of Kenya 85,00085,000

India Ev. L. Ch.India Ev. L. Ch. 80,00080,000

Luth Ch - Luth Ch - Canada Canada 78,00078,000

Luth Ch of Luth Ch of Australia Australia

75,00075,000

SELK SELK (Germany)(Germany) 36,00036,000

Ev L Ch ArgentinaEv L Ch Argentina 30,00030,000

LC in the LC in the PhilippinePhilippiness 27,00027,000L. Ch GhanaL. Ch Ghana

27,50027,500

L Ch in S. AfricaL Ch in S. Africa 20,00020,000

Ingria Luth Ch Ingria Luth Ch (Russia)(Russia) 18,00018,000

AALC (USA)AALC (USA) 20,00020,000

Page 115: G pi m project concept 2008 rvsd

Countries in which ILC member churches are Countries in which ILC member churches are located.located.

ILC Churches with membership of ILC Churches with membership of 1,000 –1,000 –10,000:10,000:

(( = 10,000 = 10,000 membersmembers))

L Ch Haiti L Ch Haiti 9,0009,000

Hong Kong Hong Kong 8,3008,300

Sri Lanka LC Sri Lanka LC 5,3005,300

LC in Korea LC in Korea 5,2005,200

LC Paraguay LC Paraguay 4,0004,000

LC Guatemala LC Guatemala 3,0003,000

Japan LC Japan LC 2,7002,700

FELSISA (S.Afr.) FELSISA (S.Afr.) 2,6502,650

China LC China LC (Taiwan)(Taiwan)2,6002,600

LC of England LC of England 1,5001,500

LC Venezuela LC Venezuela 1,0001,000

Lu SynodLu Synodof of Mexico Mexico

1,2001,200

Page 116: G pi m project concept 2008 rvsd

Countries in which ILC member churches are Countries in which ILC member churches are located.located.

Smallest ILC Churches Smallest ILC Churches (under 1,000 baptized (under 1,000 baptized members):members):

Synod of Synod of France & France & Belgium Belgium

800800

LC of Bolivia LC of Bolivia 700700

LC of Peru LC of Peru 220220

LC Rep of Chile LC Rep of Chile 170170

LC in LC in Belgium 120Belgium 120

Lu Free C in Lu Free C in Denmark 100Denmark 100

Page 117: G pi m project concept 2008 rvsd

• Historical dynamics of ‘church/mission’ relationships Historical dynamics of ‘church/mission’ relationships

Global Global Partnering in Partnering in

MissionsMissions4. Historical background4. Historical background

• Historical dynamics of relationships in the ILCHistorical dynamics of relationships in the ILC

• The growth of the ILCThe growth of the ILC

• Types of international partnershipsTypes of international partnerships

– LCMS is largest partner and has dominated the ILCLCMS is largest partner and has dominated the ILC– but many younger ILC churches are growingbut many younger ILC churches are growing

– young ILC churches have maturedyoung ILC churches have matured– a few younger ILC churches have made initial a few younger ILC churches have made initial

efforts in foreign missionsefforts in foreign missions– and some older ILC churches (eg., Brazil, Germany, Argentina) have and some older ILC churches (eg., Brazil, Germany, Argentina) have

been sending out missionaries been sending out missionaries

Page 118: G pi m project concept 2008 rvsd

• Historical dynamics of ‘church/mission’ relationships Historical dynamics of ‘church/mission’ relationships

Global Global Partnering in Partnering in

MissionsMissions4. Historical background4. Historical background

• Historical dynamics of relationships in the ILCHistorical dynamics of relationships in the ILC

• The growth of the ILCThe growth of the ILC

• Types of international partnershipsTypes of international partnerships

– but yet, but yet, world missionsworld missions among ILC churches among ILC churches still remains an undertaking centered largely still remains an undertaking centered largely in the LCMSin the LCMS

Page 119: G pi m project concept 2008 rvsd

Why does the LCMS remain dominant in the area of Why does the LCMS remain dominant in the area of world missions within the ILC?world missions within the ILC?

Various reasons, including: Various reasons, including:

• Much biggerMuch bigger• Much wealthier (in material resources) Much wealthier (in material resources) • Longer history in world mission Longer history in world mission • Organization already established for mission Organization already established for mission • More trained people to draw upon More trained people to draw upon

(pastors, teachers, etc.)(pastors, teachers, etc.)

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But could it be that we underestimate But could it be that we underestimate the gifts that smaller, poorer members the gifts that smaller, poorer members of the ILC can offer? of the ILC can offer?

Do we too easily overlook that Do we too easily overlook that the “eye” the “eye” needsneeds the “ear” and the “ear” and the “hand” the “hand” needs needs the “foot”,the “foot”, since God placed every part since God placed every part in the Body for a purpose? in the Body for a purpose?

Page 121: G pi m project concept 2008 rvsd

Members of smaller, poorer partner Members of smaller, poorer partner churches bring unique gifts that are churches bring unique gifts that are valuable in world mission. For example:valuable in world mission. For example:Proficiency Proficiency

in living in living simply and simply and with littlewith little

(in way of (in way of material material

resources)resources)Competent Competent

in other in other languages languages

and and culturescultures

No No association association

with a with a political political

superpowesuperpowerr

Unique Unique perspectives perspectives

on on life, theology, life, theology,

and and theological theological applicationapplicationAnd…And…

… …they share an equal zeal for Christ’s mission!they share an equal zeal for Christ’s mission!

Page 122: G pi m project concept 2008 rvsd

How can we How can we

in Christ’s global, multi-national Church,in Christ’s global, multi-national Church,

guided by the Holy Spirit,guided by the Holy Spirit,

break free of old paradigms and creativelybreak free of old paradigms and creatively develop and utilize the distinctive gifts develop and utilize the distinctive gifts thatthat God has given brothers and sisters in God has given brothers and sisters in allall the churches of the ILC for carrying out the churches of the ILC for carrying out his mission to all nations? his mission to all nations?

Page 123: G pi m project concept 2008 rvsd

• Historical dynamics of ‘church/mission’ relationships Historical dynamics of ‘church/mission’ relationships

Global Global Partnering in Partnering in

MissionsMissions4. Historical background4. Historical background

• Historical dynamics of relationships in the ILCHistorical dynamics of relationships in the ILC

• The growth of the ILCThe growth of the ILC

• Types of international partnershipsTypes of international partnerships

– but yet, but yet, world missionsworld missions among ILC churches among ILC churches still remains an undertaking centered largely still remains an undertaking centered largely in the LCMSin the LCMS

Page 124: G pi m project concept 2008 rvsd

• Historical dynamics of ‘church/mission’ relationships Historical dynamics of ‘church/mission’ relationships

Global Global Partnering in Partnering in

MissionsMissions4. Historical background4. Historical background

• Historical dynamics of relationships in the ILCHistorical dynamics of relationships in the ILC

• The growth of the ILCThe growth of the ILC• Types of international partnershipsTypes of international partnerships

– Types of international partnerships in recent historyTypes of international partnerships in recent history

– Some types of international collaboration found Some types of international collaboration found in ILC member churchesin ILC member churches

Page 125: G pi m project concept 2008 rvsd

• Historical dynamics of ‘church/mission’ relationships Historical dynamics of ‘church/mission’ relationships

Global Global Partnering in Partnering in

MissionsMissions4. Historical background4. Historical background

• Historical dynamics of relationships in the ILCHistorical dynamics of relationships in the ILC

• The growth of the ILCThe growth of the ILC• Types of international partnershipsTypes of international partnerships

Page 126: G pi m project concept 2008 rvsd

• Types of international partnershipsTypes of international partnerships

In recent history, efforts at international In recent history, efforts at international collaboration in missions have been collaboration in missions have been gaining prominence. gaining prominence.

Entering the 21Entering the 21stst century century —— with with globalization and the growth and maturity globalization and the growth and maturity of churches in of churches in non-western and developing countries non-western and developing countries —— churches and missions of various churches and missions of various denominations have increasingly been denominations have increasingly been looking for ways to partner internationally looking for ways to partner internationally in global mission outreach. in global mission outreach.

Page 127: G pi m project concept 2008 rvsd

Types of international partnerships in Types of international partnerships in recent historyrecent history

One finds a great variety of recent attempts at One finds a great variety of recent attempts at international collaboration in missions. Such efforts international collaboration in missions. Such efforts have included:have included: National church partnering with other national church(es)

Mission agency with mission agency(ies) in another country

Mission agency with a national church in another country

Independent international mission agency that draws missionaries and support from international churches

Multi-cultural teams that draw support from, and are accountable to, persons, churches, and/or mission agencies all over the globe

Local congregations who send their own missionaries, cooperating with older or newer churches or mission agencies in other countries

Global, multi-lateral cooperative mission endeavors

(cf. Charles Van Engen. 2001. “Toward a Theology of Mission Partnerships”. Missiology: An International Review. 29:1 (Jan 2001), p. 13)

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Types of international partnerships in Types of international partnerships in recent historyrecent history

Some partnerships have functioned Some partnerships have functioned better than others.better than others.

What can be learned from such efforts?What can be learned from such efforts?

How does a Lutheran understanding of How does a Lutheran understanding of mission inform our approach to mission inform our approach to partnerships?partnerships?

Page 129: G pi m project concept 2008 rvsd

• Historical dynamics of ‘church/mission’ Historical dynamics of ‘church/mission’ relationships relationships

Global Global Partnering in Partnering in

MissionsMissions4. Historical background4. Historical background

• Historical dynamics of relationships in the ILCHistorical dynamics of relationships in the ILC

• The growth of the ILCThe growth of the ILC• Types of international partnershipsTypes of international partnerships

– Types of international partnerships in recent historyTypes of international partnerships in recent history

– Some types of international collaboration found Some types of international collaboration found in ILC member churchesin ILC member churches

Page 130: G pi m project concept 2008 rvsd

– Some types of international collaboration found Some types of international collaboration found in ILC member churchesin ILC member churches

One ILC partner church sends financial support to another to help that church undertake a mission to a third country.

Page 131: G pi m project concept 2008 rvsd

One ILC partner calls and supports a missionary from another partner church to serve in a third place. (The missionary serves under the calling mission but continues to be a missionary of his home church.)

– Some types of international collaboration found Some types of international collaboration found in ILC member churchesin ILC member churches

Page 132: G pi m project concept 2008 rvsd

Two ILC partner churches join together to undertake a mission in a third location, both contributing missionaries and resources.

– Some types of international collaboration found Some types of international collaboration found in ILC member churchesin ILC member churches

Page 133: G pi m project concept 2008 rvsd

Congregation(s) and/or mission society(ies) from one partner church form partnership with another national church or congregations in another church to support mission work with material resources and/or volunteers.

– Some types of international collaboration found Some types of international collaboration found in ILC member churchesin ILC member churches

Page 134: G pi m project concept 2008 rvsd

A good start!A good start!

However,However,

Exciting previews Exciting previews of greater of greater possibilities!possibilities!

How can the global Lutheran community How can the global Lutheran community more effectively engage more effectively engage allall its members its members in fulfilling Christ’s mission to the ends in fulfilling Christ’s mission to the ends of the earth, integrating the unique gifts of the earth, integrating the unique gifts and personnel from and personnel from everyevery partner? partner?

However, such examples are still few and, inHowever, such examples are still few and, inmost cases, the LCMS remains the dominant most cases, the LCMS remains the dominant partner of such endeavors in the ILC.partner of such endeavors in the ILC.

– Some types of international collaboration found Some types of international collaboration found in ILC member churchesin ILC member churches

Page 135: G pi m project concept 2008 rvsd

So then…So then…

NowNowwhat?what?

Page 136: G pi m project concept 2008 rvsd

Global Global Partnering in Partnering in

MissionsMissions5. From vision to 5. From vision to realizationrealization

How?How?

Page 137: G pi m project concept 2008 rvsd

Global Global Partnering in Partnering in

MissionsMissions5. From vision to 5. From vision to realizationrealization

How? How? How can the vision for GlobalHow can the vision for Global Partnering in Missions among sister Partnering in Missions among sister Lutheran churches around the world Lutheran churches around the world come to realization? come to realization?

This presentation has raised a lot ofThis presentation has raised a lot of questions for which there are few clear questions for which there are few clear or certain answers. or certain answers.

If we If we wantwant to do it… to do it…HowHow cancan we we do it?do it?

Page 138: G pi m project concept 2008 rvsd

Global Global Partnering in Partnering in

MissionsMissions5. From vision to 5. From vision to realizationrealizationA three stage process is proposed:A three stage process is proposed:

Get Ready…Get Ready…

Get Set…Get Set…

Go!Go!

Page 139: G pi m project concept 2008 rvsd

Global Global Partnering in Partnering in

MissionsMissions5. From vision to 5. From vision to realizationrealizationThe first two steps are to Get ReadyThe first two steps are to Get Ready

Get Ready…Get Ready…

Get Set…Get Set…

Go!Go!

1. Research1. Research 2. Development of global participation 2. Development of global participation

(awareness (awareness interest interest linking linking involvement)involvement)

Page 140: G pi m project concept 2008 rvsd

Global Global Partnering in Partnering in

MissionsMissions5. From vision to 5. From vision to realizationrealizationThen, two steps to Get Set for actionThen, two steps to Get Set for action

Get Ready…Get Ready…

Get Set…Get Set…

Go!Go!

1. Research1. Research 2. Development of global participation2. Development of global participation

(awareness (awareness interest interest linking linking involvement)involvement)

3. Consensus around a model of 3. Consensus around a model of partnering partnering

4. Development of global networking 4. Development of global networking system system

Page 141: G pi m project concept 2008 rvsd

Global Global Partnering in Partnering in

MissionsMissions5. From vision to 5. From vision to realizationrealizationAnd then we can And then we can Go!Go!

Get Ready…Get Ready…

Get Set…Get Set…

Go!Go!

1. Research1. Research 2. Development of global participation2. Development of global participation

(awareness (awareness interest interest linking linking involvement)involvement)

3. Consensus around a model of 3. Consensus around a model of partnering partnering

4. Development of global networking 4. Development of global networking systemsystemGlobal Partnering in Global Partnering in

Missions!Missions!

Page 142: G pi m project concept 2008 rvsd

Global Global Partnering in Partnering in

MissionsMissions5. From vision to 5. From vision to realizationrealization

Get Ready…Get Ready…

Get Set…Get Set…

Go!Go!

3. Consensus around a model of 3. Consensus around a model of partnering partnering

4. Development of global networking 4. Development of global networking systemsystem

1. Research1. Research 2. Development of global participation2. Development of global participation

(awareness (awareness interest interest linking linking involvement)involvement)

Global Partnering in Global Partnering in Missions!Missions!

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Global Global Partnering in Partnering in

MissionsMissions5. From vision to 5. From vision to realizationrealization

1.1.ResearchResearch

The realization of this vision must begin The realization of this vision must begin with better understanding. We need with better understanding. We need to…to… Survey & study the topic in greater Survey & study the topic in greater detaildetail Explore & imagine the possibilities Explore & imagine the possibilities

Investigate & clarify likely Investigate & clarify likely complicationscomplications

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Global Global Partnering in Partnering in

MissionsMissions5. From vision to 5. From vision to realizationrealization

1.1.ResearchResearch Survey & study the topic in greater Survey & study the topic in greater detaildetail

Explore & imagine the possibilities Explore & imagine the possibilities

Investigate & clarify likely Investigate & clarify likely complicationscomplications

I am proposing a research plan I am proposing a research plan that would seek to learn as much that would seek to learn as much as possible from others . . .as possible from others . . .

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Learning Learning from from

others . . .others . . .-- from those already working with global from those already working with global

collaboration in various fieldscollaboration in various fields

-- from other missionaries and missions from other missionaries and missions involved in global partnerships in other involved in global partnerships in other denominationsdenominations

-- but but especially especially from church and mission from church and mission leaders in Lutheran partner churches of leaders in Lutheran partner churches of the ILCthe ILC

In addition to a more careful study of God’s In addition to a more careful study of God’s Word and Christian doctrine, we will seek to Word and Christian doctrine, we will seek to learn…learn…

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Learning Learning from from

others . . .others . . .A central and A central and crucialcrucial focus of the research focus of the research will be will be to to listen to and learn from God’s listen to and learn from God’s servants servants in Lutheran churches around the in Lutheran churches around the world world (including the LCMS, but especially other (including the LCMS, but especially other churcheschurches whose voices have not yet been heard as whose voices have not yet been heard as well) well)

- to hear their perspectives on how mission - to hear their perspectives on how mission hashas been and, more importantly, been and, more importantly, could becould be done, and done, and

- to explore with them - to explore with them their ideas and their ideas and insightsinsights on on possibilities for global partnering in possibilities for global partnering in mission.mission.

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Learning Learning from from

others . . .others . . .The The last thinglast thing we want we want is a program is a program

proproposedposed,,

comcomposedposed and appearing to be and appearing to be

imimposedposed from the U.S. or the from the U.S. or the LCMS,LCMS,

……with other “partner” churches feeling with other “partner” churches feeling they are only on the receiving end of they are only on the receiving end of something already worked out something already worked out forfor them! them!

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Learning Learning from from

others . . .others . . .Simply put, “global partnering in missions”Simply put, “global partnering in missions”

will requirewill requiregenuine and sincere genuine and sincere

partnering partnering that is truly that is truly

globalglobalfrom planning to implementation.from planning to implementation.

       

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Global Global Partnering in Partnering in

MissionsMissions5. From vision to 5. From vision to realizationrealization

1.1.ResearchResearch Survey & study the topic in greater Survey & study the topic in greater detaildetail

Explore & imagine the possibilities Explore & imagine the possibilities

Investigate & clarify likely Investigate & clarify likely complicationscomplications

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Global Global Partnering in Partnering in

MissionsMissions5. From vision to 5. From vision to realizationrealization

1.1.ResearchResearch Survey & study the topic in greater Survey & study the topic in greater detaildetail Explore & imagine the possibilities Explore & imagine the possibilities

Investigate & clarify likely Investigate & clarify likely complicationscomplications

A second part of the preparatory A second part of the preparatory research requires a reassesment of how research requires a reassesment of how mission has been done and bold mission has been done and bold exploration of how it might be done exploration of how it might be done through global partnering. through global partnering.

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Global Global Partnering in Partnering in

MissionsMissions5. From vision to 5. From vision to realizationrealization

1.1.ResearchResearch Survey & study the topic in greater Survey & study the topic in greater detaildetail Explore & imagine the possibilities Explore & imagine the possibilities

Investigate & clarify likely Investigate & clarify likely complicationscomplications

It needs to discover and imagine new It needs to discover and imagine new possibilities of international possibilities of international cooperation . . . new paradigms for cooperation . . . new paradigms for partnering. . . . partnering. . . . that can unite the diverse gifts of the that can unite the diverse gifts of the global Lutheran community for Christ’s global Lutheran community for Christ’s mission. mission.

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Global Global Partnering in Partnering in

MissionsMissions5. From vision to 5. From vision to realizationrealization

1.1.ResearchResearch Survey & study the topic in greater Survey & study the topic in greater detaildetail Explore & imagine the possibilities Explore & imagine the possibilities

Investigate & clarify likely Investigate & clarify likely complicationscomplications

What would a missionary look like?What would a missionary look like?How might he/she be supported? How might he/she be supported? Under what structure would they serve?Under what structure would they serve?

outside outside the box!the box!

Yes,Yes,YesYes, we need to , we need to think think

. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

. . . .

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outside outside the box!the box!

YesYes, we need to , we need to think think

Imagining the Imagining the possibilities!possibilities!

For example…For example…

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outside outside the box!the box!

YesYes, we need to , we need to think think

Imagining the Imagining the possibilities!possibilities!ImagineImagine……A team of A team of

missionaries: missionaries: One family from One family from NigeriaNigeria, , one couple from the one couple from the PhilippinesPhilippines and another from the and another from the U.S.U.S., , a man from a man from GuatemalaGuatemala, , and and a woman from a woman from GermanyGermany..

Each sent our by their Each sent our by their national home church national home church to a country in the to a country in the Middle East, under a Middle East, under a cooperative cooperative arrangement where arrangement where all share equally from all share equally from a common pool of a common pool of support from all the support from all the home churches. home churches.

Perhaps they enter the Perhaps they enter the country as teachers or country as teachers or engineers and live together in engineers and live together in a type of multi-cultural a type of multi-cultural community.community.

ImagineImagine……

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outside outside the box!the box!

YesYes, we need to , we need to think think

Imagining the Imagining the possibilities!possibilities!ImagineImagine……A team of A team of

missionaries: missionaries: One family from One family from NigeriaNigeria, , one couple from the one couple from the PhilippinesPhilippines and another from the and another from the U.S.U.S., , a man from a man from GuatemalaGuatemala, , and and a woman from a woman from GermanyGermany..

How is their mission How is their mission work supervised?work supervised?Perhaps there is a Perhaps there is a multi- national multi- national supervising team supervising team dividing up the dividing up the various various responsibilities. responsibilities. Perhaps this team Perhaps this team normally meets and normally meets and collaborates collaborates ‘virtually’ ‘virtually’ via the internet.via the internet.

Legal/immigration issues?Legal/immigration issues?Perhaps international resource Perhaps international resource person advises on such issues person advises on such issues with persons designated in each with persons designated in each national church.national church.

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outside outside the box!the box!

YesYes, we need to , we need to think think

Imagining the Imagining the possibilities!possibilities!. . . and a host of questions begin to . . . and a host of questions begin to

arise . . .arise . . .

In an example such as this of an In an example such as this of an “imagined possibility”, their will be plenty “imagined possibility”, their will be plenty of questions of questions regarding potentially complicating regarding potentially complicating factors.factors.

Which brings us to the third aspect of the Which brings us to the third aspect of the research…research…

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Global Global Partnering in Partnering in

MissionsMissions5. From vision to 5. From vision to realizationrealization

1.1.ResearchResearch Survey & study the topic in greater Survey & study the topic in greater detaildetail Explore & imagine the possibilities Explore & imagine the possibilities

Investigate & clarify likely Investigate & clarify likely complicationscomplications

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Global Global Partnering in Partnering in

MissionsMissions5. From vision to 5. From vision to realizationrealization

1.1.ResearchResearch Survey & study the topic in greater Survey & study the topic in greater detaildetail Explore & imagine the possibilities Explore & imagine the possibilities

Investigate & clarify likely Investigate & clarify likely complicationscomplications

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1.1.ResearchResearch Survey & study the topic in greater Survey & study the topic in greater detaildetail Explore & imagine the possibilities Explore & imagine the possibilities

Investigate & clarify likely Investigate & clarify likely complicationscomplications

The level of partnering envisioned here,The level of partnering envisioned here, it must be said clearly,it must be said clearly, is EXTREMELY COMPLICATED! is EXTREMELY COMPLICATED! We need to know the obstacles that can get in We need to know the obstacles that can get in the way:the way:- The challenge of - The challenge of cultural differencescultural differences

- The challenge of - The challenge of economic disparitieseconomic disparities- The challenge of - The challenge of organizational organizational

differences differences among partnersamong partners … …to name but a few!to name but a few!

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1.1.ResearchResearch Survey & study the topic in greater Survey & study the topic in greater detaildetail Explore & imagine the possibilities Explore & imagine the possibilities

Investigate & clarify likely Investigate & clarify likely complicationscomplicationsHow can we work well togetherHow can we work well together

when team members come into the partnership with when team members come into the partnership with different different culturalcultural ways of relating and working?ways of relating and working? (for example, in one culture, interpersonal conflict is addressed(for example, in one culture, interpersonal conflict is addressed indirectly while another member’s culture is to confront it indirectly while another member’s culture is to confront it directly.)directly.)

or when they come from unequal or when they come from unequal economiceconomic backgrounds?backgrounds? (for example, for one member, $400 a month is too little to (for example, for one member, $400 a month is too little to survive onsurvive on while for another it is more than he would ever dream of while for another it is more than he would ever dream of earning.)earning.)

or when they operate in differing or when they operate in differing organizationalorganizational structures?structures? (for example, policy in one national church requires changing (for example, policy in one national church requires changing theirtheir mission officer every year while for another it is needlessly mission officer every year while for another it is needlessly disruptive.) disruptive.)

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Recognizing likely Recognizing likely complicationscomplications

is the first step in designing is the first step in designing waysways

to to avoidavoid them, them,overcomeovercome them, them,

or or even exploiteven exploit them. them.

1.1.ResearchResearch Survey & study the topic in greater Survey & study the topic in greater detaildetail Explore & imagine the possibilities Explore & imagine the possibilities

Investigate & clarify likely Investigate & clarify likely complicationscomplications

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The global partnering in missions The global partnering in missions envisioned here is very rare in actual envisioned here is very rare in actual practice,practice, but but NOT for lack of desire.NOT for lack of desire.

It is mostly because it is It is mostly because it is so incredibly so incredibly difficult.difficult.

Confronted with so many Confronted with so many obstacles, churches and mission obstacles, churches and mission organizations tend to settle instead for organizations tend to settle instead for smaller, “do-able” types of cooperation.smaller, “do-able” types of cooperation.

1.1.ResearchResearch Survey & study the topic in greater Survey & study the topic in greater detaildetail Explore & imagine the possibilities Explore & imagine the possibilities

Investigate & clarify likely Investigate & clarify likely complicationscomplications

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Is it worth the effort?Is it worth the effort?

In the end,In the end, is it even truly “do-able” is it even truly “do-able” at all?at all?

1.1.ResearchResearch Survey & study the topic in greater Survey & study the topic in greater detaildetail Explore & imagine the possibilities Explore & imagine the possibilities

Investigate & clarify likely Investigate & clarify likely complicationscomplications

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This proposal is grounded in a conviction This proposal is grounded in a conviction that,that, of all places, of all places, it is PRECISELY in THE CHURCH it is PRECISELY in THE CHURCH — — in CHRIST — in CHRIST — where such obstacles where such obstacles CANCAN be be overcomeovercome..

And our testimony to the Gospel will And our testimony to the Gospel will be be all the more clear and powerful for all the more clear and powerful for it!it!

1.1.ResearchResearch Survey & study the topic in greater Survey & study the topic in greater detaildetail Explore & imagine the possibilities Explore & imagine the possibilities

Investigate & clarify likely Investigate & clarify likely complicationscomplications

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Indeed, cooperative multicultural, Indeed, cooperative multicultural, multiethnic, multinational approaches to multiethnic, multinational approaches to missions, missions, where many of the divisions so where many of the divisions so prominent toprominent to human experience are bridged for all to human experience are bridged for all to see,see, would demonstrate and would demonstrate and substantiate the message substantiate the message of the Gospel in this of the Gospel in this fractured world. For… fractured world. For…

“There is neither Jew nor Greek, slave nor free, male nor female, for you are all one in Christ Jesus.” (Gal. 3:28)

“There is neither Jew nor Greek, slave nor free, male nor female, for you are all one in Christ Jesus.” (Gal. 3:28)

1.1.ResearchResearch Survey & study the topic in greater Survey & study the topic in greater detaildetail Explore & imagine the possibilities Explore & imagine the possibilities

Investigate & clarify likely Investigate & clarify likely complicationscomplications

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Global Global Partnering in Partnering in

MissionsMissions5. From vision to 5. From vision to realizationrealization

Get Ready…Get Ready…

Get Set…Get Set…

Go!Go!

3. Consensus around a model of 3. Consensus around a model of partnering partnering

4. Development of global networking 4. Development of global networking systemsystem

1. Research1. Research 2. Development of global participation2. Development of global participation

(awareness (awareness interest interest linking linking involvement)involvement)

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Global Global Partnering in Partnering in

MissionsMissions5. From vision to 5. From vision to realizationrealization

2. Development of global 2. Development of global participationparticipation(awareness (awareness interest interest linking linking involvement)involvement)

As the research is being carried out, necessary As the research is being carried out, necessary connections with churches and leaders from all connections with churches and leaders from all parts parts of the ILC will be developed…of the ILC will be developed… Creating Creating awarenessawareness about global about global partneringpartnering Raising Raising interestinterest in the vision for global in the vision for global partnering partnering LinkingLinking individuals and churches in global individuals and churches in global networknetwork InvolvingInvolving churches and individuals in a churches and individuals in a

projectproject for Global Partnering in Mission for Global Partnering in Mission

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Global Global Partnering in Partnering in

MissionsMissions5. From vision to 5. From vision to realizationrealization

Get Ready…Get Ready…

Get Set…Get Set…

Go!Go!

1. Research1. Research 2. Development of global participation 2. Development of global participation

(awareness (awareness interest interest linking linking involvement)involvement)

3. Consensus around a model of 3. Consensus around a model of partnering partnering

4. Development of global networking 4. Development of global networking system system

Global Partnering in Global Partnering in Missions!Missions!

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This presentation has been This presentation has been prepared in order to begin toprepared in order to begin to

create awareness create awareness and and

raise interest raise interest among Lutherans among Lutherans

regarding the possibility forregarding the possibility forGlobal Partnering in Mission.Global Partnering in Mission.

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Global Global Partnering in Partnering in

MissionsMissionsMembers of the Body of Christ Members of the Body of Christ throughout the world working throughout the world working

together to bring the Gospel to the together to bring the Gospel to the whole world. whole world.

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Members of the Body of Christ Members of the Body of Christ throughout the world working throughout the world working

together to bring the Gospel to the together to bring the Gospel to the whole world. whole world.

Global Global Partnering in Partnering in

MissionsMissions

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Global Global Partnering in Partnering in

MissionsMissionsProject Concept Project Concept forfor Global Partnering in Global Partnering in

MissionsMissions

Sowing the VisionSowing the VisionRev. Dale TalsmaRev. Dale Talsma

20082008