17 missions and money

Missions and Money

Partially adapted from Missions and Money

Jonathan BonkDr. Robert Patton

Missionary to Suriname, South America

Bonk – Basic concepts

Western missionaries are wealthy in contrast to those around them in most contexts overseas

The Bible talks to the wealthy – and although the missionary is not wealthy in the USA, he is in his target country, and the Bible speaks to him

Basic concepts

Gross economic inequality in those with close social proximity may bring a lot of trouble

Christian faith is not lived in isolation. It is a relational faith lived out in relational and social context

Basic concepts: Missionary adaptation

Some just associate with their social and cultural equals

Some shift the debate to dependency

Some have a simple lifestyle but still maintain their benefits of medical care, transportation, etc.

Some live incarnationally, giving up privilege and living as nationals

Another alternative

Live as the righteous rich – giving generously to meet the needs of those less fortunate

The problem is increasing

The difference in lifestyle 100 or 200 years ago was perhaps 3:1 between the poor and the rich

The difference now may be as high as 70:1

Mostly it is the Catholic priests or nuns who have lived in the slums in an incarnational living style

Wrong attitudes of missionaries

19th century – this discrepancy was considered inevitable because of the superiority of the western missionary and his culture

Considered providential = white man’s burden

Many felt colonialism was God’s way to spread the gospel.

Wrong attitude of superiority

British felt that they had an empire because they had the best Christianity

They felt that the power of the gospel was shown in adopting western ideas

This was largely rejected after World War I & II. Now largely secular science, education, technology is seen as superior

Britain & Europe – declining Christianity

Rationale for missionary affluence

Economic – cheapest missionaries are those who stay longest on the field – need proper food and housing. In fact, missionary mortality is now like pastors in the USA

31% withdraw from ill health 15 % withdraw from death

Rationale for missionary affluence

Care of family – especially education for the children

Social – fit into cultural expectations

Strategic – funds needed for things like education

Relational costs of missionary affluence

Missionaries may be isolated from the trials of others – teaching nationals to trust the Lord

Social isolation – partly because of the USA love of independence

Economic disparity may lead to sense of superiority and special privileges

Relational costs…

Affluence causes a social gulf, especially in close relationships

Affluence can lead to distrust Affluence can lead to envy and

hostility, especially from those that do the same work

Strategic costs

Missionaries may depend on expensive technology appropriate only for a western culture

It may be difficult for nationals to maintain such technology in the absence of the missionary

Discrepancy may make partnership more difficult

Strategic costs

Affluence may result in strategies which may not effectively reach the poor

Theological issues

Can a secure missionary teach about simplicity, generosity, contentment and the sacrifice in discipleship?

What about the sin of greed – both in the missionary and the poor.

Some believe the west is driven by greed, avarice, gluttony, envy, luxury, and pride…

The Bible and wealth

I Tim. 6:[8] And having food and raiment let us be therewith content.[9] But they that will be rich fall into temptation and a snare, and into many foolish and hurtful lusts, which drown men in destruction and perdition.


I Tim. 6: [5] Perverse disputings of men of corrupt minds, and destitute of the truth, supposing that gain is godliness: from such withdraw thyself.[6] But godliness with contentment is great gain.[7] For we brought nothing into this world, and it is certain we can carry nothing out.


I Tim. 6: [10] For the love of money is the root of all evil: which while some coveted after, they have erred from the faith, and pierced themselves through with many sorrows.[11] But thou, O man of God, flee these things; and follow after righteousness, godliness, faith, love, patience, meekness.

What about dependency on God and prayer?

Deut 6: [11] And houses full of all good things, which thou filledst not, and wells digged, which thou diggedst not, vineyards and olive trees, which thou plantedst not; when thou shalt have eaten and be full;[12] Then beware lest thou forget the LORD, which brought thee forth out of the land of Egypt, from the house of bondage.

What about dependency on God and prayer?

Deut 8:[10] When thou hast eaten and art full, then thou shalt bless the LORD thy God for the good land which he hath given thee.[11] Beware that thou forget not the LORD thy God, in not keeping his command-ments, and his judgments, and his statutes, which I command thee this day:

This was satan’s attitude in the king of Tyre

Ezekiel 28:[4] With thy wisdom and with thine understanding thou hast gotten thee riches, and hast gotten gold and silver into thy treasures:[5] By thy great wisdom and by thy traffick hast thou increased thy riches, and thine heart is lifted up because of thy riches:

True incarnation and the cross

Renounce: status, independence, and immunity

Trevor Verryn: “Only the truly strong are able to lay aside their power in an act of self-emptying and assume a position of powerlessness.”

Summary of problems

Preoccupation with possessions Reliance upon power-based status

and strategy Double standards of ethics Remember – missionaries are

teachers, and will be judged more strictly according to James 3:1

It is true that

Sometimes the rich are righteous – Job, Abraham, Isaac, Joseph of Aramathea, Nicodemus

Sometimes the poor are to blame for their poverty – Solomon looking at a broken down farm

Private property is OK

But

A man’s life does not consist of the abundance of his possessions

Wealth does not bring happiness The year of Jubilee prevented the

indefinite accumulation of money The sabbatical year cared for the

poor and animals

But…

Loans with no interest, and collateral was only temporary

Gleaning was to leave things for the poor

Debts cancelled every 7 years Employees were paid promptly

Spiritual dangers with wealth and prosperity

We may feel that we can safely ignore or forget God – we don’t need him. See Deut. 8:1-20

We may have a false sense of security: Proverbs 18:[11] The rich man's wealth

is his strong city, and as an high wall in his own conceit.[12] Before destruction the heart of man is haughty, and before honour is humility.

Wealth and security can be enemies of humility

Jeremiah 9:[23] Thus saith the LORD, Let not the wise man glory in his wisdom, neither let the mighty man glory in his might, let not the rich man glory in his riches:[24] But let him that glorieth glory in this, that he understand-eth and knoweth me, that I am the LORD which exercise lovingkindness, judgment, and righteousness, in the earth: for in these things I delight, saith the LORD.

Wealth can…

Distort our judgment. Proverbs 28:[11] The rich man is wise in his own conceit; but the poor that hath understanding searcheth him out.

Wealth can…

Interfere with our repentance: Isaiah 22:[12] And in that day did the Lord GOD of hosts call to weeping, and to mourning, and to baldness, and to girding with sackcloth:[13] And behold joy and gladness, slaying oxen, and killing sheep, eating flesh, and drinking wine: let us eat and drink; for to morrow we shall die.

Wealth can lead to

Overindulgence Glutton Greed Abuse of personal power by

mistreating the weak and contempt for the poor. See Solomon and Rehoboam misusing the people; Ahab murdering Naboth…

Wealthy have bad priorities

In Isaiah 5:7-23, the prophet describes how the wealthy are eager for the sabbath to finish so that they can get back to making money.

They mix up evil and good, darkness and light

The western world calls greed, gluttony and covetousness virtues!

Godliness and contentment are great gain….

In their trip through the wilderness, Israel often had limited but adequate food, and barely enough water. Yet when they complained, God said that they would not enter into His rest (Psalm 95:10-11)

Some compromise their message to please the rich – not prophetic voice

Often in the OT, wealth and prosperity come to the evil

Brutality, disobedience, injustice often occur. Egyptian wealth was built on slavery. Canaan was wealthy but immoral. Sodom was wealthy but corrupt.

See Psalm 37, where the psalmist struggles but sees the future…

The rich may fail to help the poor like they should

Lazarus and the rich man The tithes for the poor Don’t glean your fields again but

leave them for the poor

it is possible to have too much as well as too little

Proverbs 30:[8] Remove far from me vanity and lies: give me neither poverty nor riches; feed me with food convenient for me:[9] Lest I be full, and deny thee, and say, Who is the LORD? or lest I be poor, and steal, and take the name of my God in vain.

Personal gain first = spiritual bankruptcy

Lot – wanted to keep all the best land for himself. His later life was a total disaster, and he lost what he wanted

Eli – thought of his belly and his boys more than God’s honor

God aligns Himself consistently with the poor

Israel vs. Egypt Jesus not only came for the poor

but came as one of the poor God is against those who

oppress or even neglect the poor: Job 31:16-28

True righteousness

Obedience is concerned with the needs of the poor

Not simply religious rites or pious platitudes

A good example is Nehemiah when the poor were oppressed. He forced the rich to return lands and release slaves. The opposite occurred in Judah during Nebuchadnessar’s seige – they did it, and then reverted back…

True giving to God

Something we genuinely value, not just our surplus or discards. Example of Mary anointing Jesus. Jn. 12:[3] Then took Mary a pound of ointment of spikenard, very costly, and anointed the feet of Jesus, and wiped his feet with her hair: and the house was filled with the odour of the ointment.

True giving to God

[4] Then saith one of his disciples, Judas Iscariot, Simon's son, which should betray him,[5] Why was not this ointment sold for three hundred pence, and given to the poor?[6] This he said, not that he cared for the poor; but because he was a thief, and had the bag, and bare what was put therein.

True giving to God

[7] Then said Jesus, Let her alone: against the day of my burying hath she kept this.[8] For the poor always ye have with you; but me ye have not always.

True giving to God

Malachi 1:6-14 shows that they were giving second class offerings, and God was not impressed. Human rulers would not be impressed, and He is a GREAT God who deserves great offerings…[6] A son honoureth his father, and a servant his master: if then I be a father, where is mine honour? and if I be a master, where is my fear?

True giving to God

Malachi 1:6b saith the LORD of hosts unto you, O priests, that despise my name. And ye say, Wherein have we despised thy name?[7] Ye offer polluted bread upon mine altar; and ye say, Wherein have we polluted thee? In that ye say, The table of the LORD is contemptible.

True economic repentance

Is costly and most people, including religious ones, do not repent. They will usually do away with the preacher and find another who is easier on their lives

The prophets Isaiah, Jeremiah and Ezekiel have much to say about economic justice, but the people rejected their message

Goods and money and security are not top values

Mt. 6:[19] Lay not up for yourselves treasures upon earth, where moth and rust doth corrupt, and where thieves break through and steal:[20] But lay up for yourselves treasures in heaven, where neither moth nor rust doth corrupt, and where thieves do not break through nor steal:[21] For where your treasure is, there will your heart be also.

What is truly important

Phil. 3:[7] But what things were gain to me, those I counted loss for Christ.[8] Yea doubtless, and I count all things but loss for the excellency of the knowledge of Christ Jesus my Lord: for whom I have suffered the loss of all things, and do count them but dung, that I may win Christ,

Paul, the man for one thing

Phil. 3:[13] Brethren, I count not myself to have apprehended: but this one thing I do, forgetting those things which are behind, and reaching forth unto those things which are before,[14] I press toward the mark for the prize of the high calling of God in Christ Jesus

Sharing possessions is a NT virtue

James 3:[14] What doth it profit, my brethren, though a man say he hath faith, and have not works? can faith save him?[15] If a brother or sister be naked, and destitute of daily food,….

Sharing possessions is a NT virtue

James 3:[16] And one of you say unto them, Depart in peace, be ye warmed and filled; notwithstanding ye give them not those things which are needful to the body; what doth it profit?[17] Even so faith, if it hath not works, is dead, being alone.

A surprising contrast

Wealth and prosperity are often a sign of greed, and poverty and hardship may be the result of obedience to God

Wealth often is associated with mistreatment of the poor, preoccupation with self, and spiritual impotence. Zacheus was unrighteous but wealthy, but repented and gave much of his fortune away

Luke 6:

[20] And he lifted up his eyes on his disciples, and said, Blessed be ye poor: for yours is the kingdom of God.[21] Blessed are ye that hunger now: for ye shall be filled. Blessed are ye that weep now: for ye shall laugh.[22] Blessed are ye, when men shall hate you, and when they shall separate you from their company, and shall reproach you, and cast out your name as evil, for the Son of man's sake.

Luke 6: [23] Rejoice ye in that day, and leap for

joy: for, behold, your reward is great in heaven: for in the like manner did their fathers unto the prophets.[24] But woe unto you that are rich! for ye have received your consolation.[25] Woe unto you that are full! for ye shall hunger. Woe unto you that laugh now! for ye shall mourn and weep.[26] Woe unto you, when all men shall speak well of you! for so did their fathers to the false prophets.

Remember the contrast

The rich young ruler was lost: Mt. 19:23] Then said Jesus unto his disciples, Verily I say unto you, That a rich man shall hardly enter into the kingdom of heaven.[24] And again I say unto you, It is easier for a camel to go through the eye of a needle, than for a rich man to enter into the kingdom of God.

Remember the contrast

The rich young ruler was lost: Mt. 19:25] When his disciples heard it, they were exceedingly amazed, saying, Who then can be saved?[26] But Jesus beheld them, and said unto them, With men this is impossible; but with God all things are possible.

Luke 12

[29] And seek not ye what ye shall eat, or what ye shall drink, neither be ye of doubtful mind.[30] For all these things do the nations of the world seek after: and your Father knoweth that ye have need of these things.[31] But rather seek ye the kingdom of God; and all these things shall be added unto you.

Luke 12

[32] Fear not, little flock; for it is your Father's good pleasure to give you the kingdom.[33] Sell that ye have, and give alms; provide yourselves bags which wax not old, a treasure in the heavens that faileth not, where no thief approacheth, neither moth corrupteth.[34] For where your treasure is, there will your heart be also.

Wealth and prosperity

Are dangerous spiritually – be alert and careful

It is against spirituality and humility

I Tim 6:

[6] But godliness with contentment is great gain.[7] For we brought nothing into this world, and it is certain we can carry nothing out.[8] And having food and raiment let us be therewith content.[9] But they that will be rich fall into temptation and a snare, and into many foolish and hurtful lusts, which drown men in destruction and perdition.

I Tim 6:

[10] For the love of money is the root of all evil: which while some coveted after, they have erred from the faith, and pierced themselves through with many sorrows.[11] But thou, O man of God, flee these things; and follow after righteousness, godliness, faith, love, patience, meekness.

Wealth distorts true wisdom and expertise

Mt. 18:[1] At the same time came the disciples unto Jesus, saying, Who is the greatest in the kingdom of heaven?[2] And Jesus called a little child unto him, and set him in the midst of them,[3] And said, Verily I say unto you, Except ye be converted, and become as little children, ye shall not enter into the kingdom of heaven.[4] Whosoever therefore shall humble himself as this little child, the same is greatest in the kingdom of heaven.

James 2

[1] My brethren, have not the faith of our Lord Jesus Christ, the Lord of glory, with respect of persons.[2] For if there come unto your assembly a man with a gold ring, in goodly apparel, and there come in also a poor man in vile raiment;

James 2

[3] And ye have respect to him that weareth the gay clothing, and say unto him, Sit thou here in a good place; and say to the poor, Stand thou there, or sit here under my footstool:[4] Are ye not then partial in yourselves, and are become judges of evil thoughts?

James 2 [5] Hearken, my beloved brethren, Hath

not God chosen the poor of this world rich in faith, and heirs of the kingdom which he hath promised to them that love him?[6] But ye have despised the poor. Do not rich men oppress you, and draw you before the judgment seats?[7] Do not they blaspheme that worthy name by the which ye are called?

James 2

[8] If ye fulfil the royal law according to the scripture, Thou shalt love thy neighbour as thyself, ye do well:[9] But if ye have respect to persons, ye commit sin, and are convinced of the law as transgressors.[10] For whosoever shall keep the whole law, and yet offend in one point, he is guilty of all.

Luke 12 Wealth changes our priorities

[13] And one of the company said unto him, Master, speak to my brother, that he divide the inheritance with me.[14] And he said unto him, Man, who made me a judge or a divider over you?[15] And he said unto them, Take heed, and beware of covetousness: for a man's life consisteth not in the abundance of the things which he possesseth.


[16] And he spake a parable unto them, saying, The ground of a certain rich man brought forth plentifully:[17] And he thought within himself, saying, What shall I do, because I have no room where to bestow my fruits?[18] And he said, This will I do: I will pull down my barns, and build greater; and there will I bestow all my fruits and my goods.


[19] And I will say to my soul, Soul, thou hast much goods laid up for many years; take thine ease, eat, drink, and be merry.[20] But God said unto him, Thou fool, this night thy soul shall be required of thee: then whose shall those things be, which thou hast provided? [21] So is he that layeth up treasure for himself, and is not rich toward God.

Wealth decreases prayer

Prayer is usually the cry of the person needing God’s help. Often the wealthy think that they don’t need His help but can take care of their own needs with their wealth.

Self-sufficiency and security are enemies of prayer

Wealth’s adverse effects:

Alienation with other humans Can become a god to the

owner Breeds covetousness and

greed Dissipation and indulgence

Wealth chokes the Word

Mt. 13:[22] He also that received seed among the thorns is he that heareth the word; and the care of this world, and the deceitfulness of riches, choke the word, and he becometh unfruitful.

Love can make us betray Jesus

Judas: Mt. 26:[14] Then one of the twelve, called Judas Iscariot, went unto the chief priests,[15] And said unto them, What will ye give me, and I will deliver him unto you? And they covenanted with him for thirty pieces of silver.[16] And from that time he sought opportunity to betray him.

Judas problem showed in his response to Mary’s sacrifice

Judas complained when Mary sacrificed her heirloom perfume on Jesus. But he was interested not in the poor, but in getting ahold of more money… he held the bag…

The cost of greed… in Acts 5

[1] But a certain man named Ananias, with Sapphira his wife, sold a possession,[2] And kept back part of the price, his wife also being privy to it, and brought a certain part, and laid it at the apostles' feet.[3] But Peter said, Ananias, why hath Satan filled thine heart to lie to the Holy Ghost, and to keep back part of the price of the land?


[4] Whiles it remained, was it not thine own? and after it was sold, was it not in thine own power? why hast thou conceived this thing in thine heart? thou hast not lied unto men, but unto God. [5] And Ananias hearing these words fell down, and gave up the ghost: and great fear came on all them that heard these things.


[6] And the young men arose, wound him up, and carried him out, and buried him.[7] And it was about the space of three hours after, when his wife, not knowing what was done, came in.[8] And Peter answered unto her, Tell me whether ye sold the land for so much? And she said, Yea, for so much.


[9] Then Peter said unto her, How is it that ye have agreed together to tempt the Spirit of the Lord? behold, the feet of them which have buried thy husband are at the door, and shall carry thee out.[10] Then fell she down straightway at his feet, and yielded up the ghost: and the young men came in, and found her dead, and, carrying her forth, buried her by her husband.

Jesus, born poor, ministered to the poor

Isaiah 61:[1] The Spirit of the Lord GOD is upon me; because the LORD hath anointed me to preach good tidings unto the meek; he hath sent me to bind up the brokenhearted, to proclaim liberty to the captives, and the opening of the prison to them that are bound; [2] To proclaim the acceptable year of the LORD, and the day of vengeance of our God; to comfort all that mourn;

Jesus judged in Mt. 25

Those that treated the poor, the hungry, the imprisoned, etc were blessed.

The new believers in the church shared their goods in common

Examples – Macedonian believers and the church of Philippi were poor but generous & supported Paul

God is pleased…

Heb. 13:[3] Remember them that are in bonds, as bound with them; and them which suffer adversity, as being yourselves also in the body.…[16] But to do good and to communicate forget not: for with such sacrifices God is well pleased.

God uses the weak and foolish things to give Himself glory

I Cor. 1:[18] For the preaching of the cross is to them that perish foolishness; but unto us which are saved it is the power of God.[19] For it is written, I will destroy the wisdom of the wise, and will bring to nothing the understanding of the prudent.


I Cor. 25] Because the foolishness of God is wiser than men; and the weakness of God is stronger than men.[26] For ye see your calling, brethren, how that not many wise men after the flesh, not many mighty, not many noble, are called:


I Cor. 1:[27] But God hath chosen the foolish things of the world to confound the wise; and God hath chosen the weak things of the world to confound the things which are mighty;[28] And base things of the world, and things which are despised, hath God chosen, yea, and things which are not, to bring to nought things that are:


I Cor. 1:[29] That no flesh should glory in his presence.[30] But of him are ye in Christ Jesus, who of God is made unto us wisdom, and righteousness, and sanctification, and redemption: [31] That, according as it is written, He that glorieth, let him glory in the Lord.

The parable of the good Samaritan

Shows that it is not religious orthodoxy (both the priest and Levite were orthodox), but one’s relationship with the poor or needy show the individual’s standing with God.

It is with specific people, and not just a sociological class…

Genuine repentance shown by sacrificial giving

Rom. 12:[1] I beseech you therefore, brethren, by the mercies of God, that ye present your bodies a living sacrifice, holy, acceptable unto God, which is your reasonable service.[2] And be not conformed to this world: but be ye transformed by the renewing of your mind, that ye may prove what is that good, and acceptable, and perfect, will of God.

The widow’s mite

Worth a part of a penny, but more than the wealthy

Given to a corrupt clergy but with the right motives

Christ’s followers

Self-sacrifice instead of self-indulgence Mary’s giving the perfume… Peter misunderstood about Christ’s

sacrificial death – and Jesus called him satan because his statement is a satanic lie – save yourself.

The priests said: He saved others; Himself He cannot save; ironically, they were correct

Christ’s followers must be servants

This is a reorientation for the wealthy, including the wealthy missionary

Generosity must go also to Christ’s enemies – Mt. 5:38-45

Those who lose economically are usually resistant to the gospel – e.g., Demetrius and the silversmiths of Ephesus

Religious leaders often love money

They will be judged more severely: James 3:[1] My brethren, be not many masters, knowing that we shall receive the greater condemnation. [2] For in many things we offend all. If any man offend not in word, the same is a perfect man, and able also to bridle the whole body.


They will be judged more severely: James 2:[14] What doth it profit, my brethren, though a man say he hath faith, and have not works? can faith save him?[15] If a brother or sister be naked, and destitute of daily food,


They will be judged more severely: James 2:[16] And one of you say unto them, Depart in peace, be ye warmed and filled; notwithstanding ye give them not those things which are needful to the body; what doth it profit?[17] Even so faith, if it hath not works, is dead, being alone.

True faith shows itself in obedience

James 2:[18] Yea, a man may say, Thou hast faith, and I have works: shew me thy faith without thy works, and I will shew thee my faith by my works.[19] Thou believest that there is one God; thou doest well: the devils also believe, and tremble.[20] But wilt thou know, O vain man, that faith without works is dead?


James 2:[21] Was not Abraham our father justified by works, when he had offered Isaac his son upon the altar? [22] Seest thou how faith wrought with his works, and by works was faith made perfect?[23] And the scripture was fulfilled which saith, Abraham believed God, and it was imputed unto him for righteousness: and he was called the Friend of God.


James 2:[24] Ye see then how that by works a man is justified, and not by faith only.

The missionary is affected by western consumerism

Western consumerism is based on the idea that a man’s life indeed does consist of his possessions – especially those that are most up-to-date

Reminder of usual methods of missionary handling

Associate with peers – upper level of developing country – though Christianity is geared for the poor

Ignore and explain away Simplify life but maintain many of

the benefits – medicine, transport, education

Incarnational lifestyle

The gap in finances missionary to national

1800 – two to one 1913 – three to one 1970 – seven to one 1992 – seventy-two to one Most effective missionary work

often done by poorer churches

Repentance, not revolution

Move in the direction of the cross, weakness

We must live what we preach We are assigned a status by the

culture. We should be the righteous rich – how we behave toward the poor.

Job was proactive in helping the poor

Culturally appropriate helping the poor

Deut. 15:1-11 The time of cancelling debts – also help poor brother

Nehemiah 5:1-12: The rich repented of their oppression of their Jewish brothers

We need justice, and not mere legality which can protect the rich

Paul’s instruction to Timothy

I Tim. 6:[17] Charge them that are rich in this world, that they be not highminded, nor trust in uncertain riches, but in the living God, who giveth us richly all things to enjoy;[18] That they do good, that they be rich in good works, ready to distribute, willing to communicate; [19] Laying up in store for themselves a good foundation against the time to come, that they may lay hold on eternal life.

Jesus

Never too busy to help the sick and poor, although He was to save the world. The good news intersects with the actual needs of people.

We western missionaries often serve on our terms, not that of the people whom we are called to serve!

Two errors in self-denial

Be careful not to seem self-righteous and display that

Do not insist that others conform to the same external standards that we have from our western culture but are not necessarily biblical

Be careful of the church of the west

Often there is more the mind of the west than the mind of Christ

Simplify personal lifestyles. We are Christian soldiers in a cosmic conflict.

We are not the owner but the steward of resources – travel lightly

Do not waste things on self-indulgence

Needs not by western standards

Sometimes we may need to sell possessions to help others.

We need to be careful about our children – Lot and Eli put children’s affluence above spiritual preparation

Wealthy churches must support their missionaries…

According to their own standards. The church of Laodicea will have problems asking members to sacrifice.

But missionaries are free to live according to their conscience.

There is a similar problem with training institutions which coddle their students

We need to be aware of God’s servants who are poor

Often the church advances through the work of humble and poor servants who are largely unknown and unappreciated

Missionaries may play a rather small part in the total story

Institutional repentance

Reformers are usually not welcome Christian obedience cannot be easily

legislated Usually a mission organization will not

appreciate reformation We need to move from independence

to interdependence with national churches

Three major models

Incarnation The cross Weakness as power

Incarnation

It should be prescriptive strategy rather than theological description

Lesson: speed, mobility, power, comprehensiveness, and success are not the measures of missionary strategy

Incarnation: Jesus was

Born poor, ministered to the poor, and died poor

Born as a helpless baby, needing to grow in wisdom by learning obedience

He rejected the tendency to demonstrate His power rather than work in poverty, obscurity, and weakness – the opposite is rejected as satanic

Missionary attitude

God sent Jesus into the world in poverty. So like He sent Jesus, Jesus sends us

We are to be in the world but not of the world

Our attitude should be like Christ Jesus- giving up power and privilege

Missionary standards

Sacrifice more than “what could have been at home”

Jesus had lifelong suspicion, misunder-standings and eventually death

We are a threat to the uncommitted when we give up our treasures, love our enemies, bless our persecutors, surrender to service

The threat of changing standards

The missionary who is not of the world shows the standards of another King, not the prince of the world.

But they have spiritual weapons for a spiritual battle…

The cross

His disciples can look forward to suffering here and now: Mt. 10:38

Peter knew not the things of God but of man when he suggested Christ reject the cross: Mk. 8:31-34

The cross separates us from the spirit of this age, and those of that spirit

Philippians 3:

[17] Brethren, be followers together of me, and mark them which walk so as ye have us for an ensample.[18] (For many walk, of whom I have told you often, and now tell you even weeping, that they are the enemies of the cross of Christ:

Philippians 3:

[19] Whose end is destruction, whose God is their belly, and whose glory is in their shame, who mind earthly things.)[20] For our conversation is in heaven; from whence also we look for the Saviour, the Lord Jesus Christ:

The cross =self-judgment

Don’t build on self-gratification They may run to the security of the

enemy of their souls away from the lover of their souls.

They live in pleasant self-fulfilling lives but the lives fall down on the ground and die without multiplying

The church of the west must change to take up the cross

Affluent churches as well as individuals need to come to Jesus for what they truly need.

This is also true of mission organizations who insist that they will cover all the risks of the missionary.

Weakness rather than strength

The early church had little funds and no political power, but accomplished the task of spreading the gospel

We must not rely on our strength, but on the strength that comes only from the Lord. When we are weak, then we are strong – if we are in His will

Part IIAvoiding Dependency

Dr. Robert PattonMissionary to Suriname,

South America

Dependency Of course, our first reliance is

on God! But we must not rely on the

resources outside locally Otherwise you may miss the

resources that God will provide, a

Furthermore, then you cannot help others

.Indigenous - something locally owned and operated

There is often an imported and expensive foreign structure requiring outside support

Placing nationals in responsible positions is not indigenization, but nationalization

.Indigenous - something locally owned and operated

We need not only legal ownership and national ownership,

But also psychological ownership

Truly indigenous = ownership

This is ours. It belongs to us. We are going to make it work. We will manage it ourselves

with our own decisions, structures, and resources

Characteristics of the dependency syndrome

Fatalism – nationals saying: we can’t help ourselves... and missionaries saying: they can’t help themselves

Not all dependent churches are poor- it has more to do with the mentality of the people

Foreign funding can be like a poison or pollutant

But - It is possible to cure dependency

Dependency can be cured

One “poor” church has 3 offerings .For the poor .Tithe .Thanks offering

Dependency can be cured

Successful cure through discipleship. 2 days of fasting & prayer, then 3 days of teaching on

stewardship and discipleship Spiritual renewal is key. Repeated again after 6 months. Soon the church was self reliant.

Lessons from Irian Jaya No foreign funds used in local

church development Mission employed no paid

evangelists Missionaries did not burden the

churches with a structure they could not sustain

Church members paid pastors by cultivating the fields for them

Lessons from Irian Jaya They practiced self-support in

church and community No preferential treatment was

given to believers in medical or community work

Stewardship was taught from the beginning

Lessons from Irian Jaya Missionaries were given cross-

cultural training and sensitivity

Warning - don’t resent the church’s move toward self-reliance

Characteristics of the Syndrome of Dependency

It affects all aspects of mission life

It especially affects Bible distribution

It is longstanding, and not confined to one geographic area

The problem is still contemporary

Dependency syndrome Who have problems? Missionaries whose programs

create the problems Church leaders whose salaries

come from foreign sources

Dependency syndrome What is the problem? Foreign funds often come in

large amounts and in hidden ways.

There is a great temptation to misuse the funds - more than locally managed funds

Dependency Syndrome Unhealthy dependence makes

it nearly impossible for churches to send out their own missionaries.

What we seek is outreach from an energized church which has spiritual and financial energy left over to reach others.

This can become a way of life

Dependency syndrome This can become a way of life It can have very attractive nature- you

can support a national for $50 per month

Local people are deprived of the opportunity to support their own evangelist

Sometimes the evangelist is seen as a ‘foreign agent’

Things to ask about partnership

Many suggest western funds and eastern manpower

Which way to resources flow? If one way - then it is sponsorship rather than partnership.

Partnership works best when money is not an issue

Interdependence - two relatively equal partners

National contributions

Knowledge of the language and culture

Ability to live in circumstances that would be very difficult for a western missionary to tolerate

Risks involved in challenging dependence

Loss of reputation and attack on the individual

May affect your own salary You may lose potentially good

leaders

Dependency syndrome Resolving dependency is a great

blessing Often there is a direct revelation

of the Lord It is very difficult for westerners

to accept that their giving could be the root cause of dependency problems

Breaking dependency is a spiritual problem.

Attack dependency with Prayer Sound teaching Discipleship Spiritual decision-making

What should wealthy churches do with their money? Where does the money come

from? Ethically? Invest in cross-cultural training

for missionaries

What should wealthy churches do with their money? Helping with debt encountered

in college Mobilization of resources to

send people where the gospel is not preached

Outreach in your own communities

What should wealthy churches do with their money?

Invest in campus organizations, radio broadcasting, Bible translation

What should wealthy churches do with their money?

Invest in Help refugees Preventive health programs Employment projects, job

creation schemes and revolving loan funds

Where should we exercise care?

Individual church leaders paid directly

Child care programs bypassing family

Bibles - be careful that we do not overly subsidize them and make their value too little

Be careful about overseas scholarships

Where should we exercise care?

Building church buildings which the people could build themselves.

Remember people can have a church building equal to the house in which they live

Food aid projects which can affect the cost of local products.

Historical Development of the Syndrome of Dependency Healthy churches are not

dependent on outside resources

Three self is important – self-governing, self-supporting, self-propagating

Historical Development of the Syndrome of Dependency Some want also an indigenous

theology and hymnology The problem is when

missionaries entrench themselves and build huge foreign institutions.

Practical Suggestions for Missionaries Large mission stations have a

negative impact .They put distance between

missionary and people .They are expensive to maintain

.We must focus more on being than doing

.Recognize what God is doing, and join Him in His work

Cross-cultural training is vital This is more than a crash

course We must adjust to the other’s

point of reference Where does my primary

fellowship come from? Is my identity tied with

position and responsibility, or who I am in Christ?

Missionary attitudes Decline to take charge of

anything that could be done by a local person

Excuse yourselves from business meetings when possible

Be ready to remove the scaffolding which has been built

Avoid personal agenda which must be completed before leaving

Proper missionary ownership I will give away my rights I will resist giving an answer

for everything on every subject I will defer to others and not

make them dependent on my money

I will not condemn anyone if a program is closed because it cannot be maintained

Proper missionary ownership

I will not allow dependency to develop

I will not become bitter or discouraged if my rights, privileges and responsi-bilities are taken from me

I came to be replaced by others I will not react with anger when

others talk about how things can go in the future

Destructive missionary attitudes These people do not

appreciate what we have done for them

As a missionary I need to do more than be

We will give them authority when they are ready for it (maybe in 100 years)

Destructive missionary attitudes If we turn the work over too

soon, maybe it will be destroyed

What is your attitude toward transition to local responsibility?

Questions for missionaries

What will you do if your present role is ended?

Could you move your scaffolding elsewhere?

Can you help a local church develop a sending ministry?

Questions for missionaries Could you serve in an

existing church without a position of power or leadership?

Could you help actively develop local resources and break dependency?

Could you be a mobilizer for missions, looking for others to serve wider?

What can Local Leaders do to Avoid or Break the Dependency Syndrome?

We must not allow the past - colonialism, paternalism, or apartheid to make us bitter

We must not build up our own empire

Make a strong commitment to the process of change


Get the whole team on track for transition.

Give attention to how the missionaries feel, but do not become paralyzed by that.


If older members cannot, then let them be involved with something less stressful and not active at the heart of the process.

Spiritual unity is a must


BEGIN WITH SPIRITUAL RENEWAL

Good planning is necessary Give attention to restructuring

the box

Practical suggestions

Let the imagination flow Give joyfully Be prepared to reduce

expenses Be sure to put evangelism &

missionary outreach into the agenda

Encouragement to remove dependency

You aren’t the first to face change Pray that the Holy Spirit will show

the right time for change Ask for divine guidance - humility,

spiritual discernment and determination

Allow a reasonable time for change to take place

Leadership qualities

Be at peace with God We must believe our present

calling of God is valid - and with God’s help it can be carried out

We must be committed to leading people and not simply fixing problems

Leadership qualities

Respect the need of change and do not fear it

Those who change need to be prepared to be criticized

We may need to sacrifice personally

Be humble when we see progress

Leadership qualities See the long-term picture Have unquestioned personal

integrity. Remember - the failure to

confront diminishes our ability to lead

Employ the most gifted Be certain that we have God’s

agenda in mind

Effects of long-term foreign subsidy Outsiders often set the

agenda Progress is often determined

by the availability of outside money

Often foreign-salaried nationals are not free to decide and innovate

Effects of long-term foreign subsidy There is adverse effects of

the self-image and community image of the church

Local value systems can be damaged

Problems in stewardship teaching in mission-established institutions

The hearts of the members may be cold

Outside funding creates the appearance of wealth

There is often hidden income and hidden expenses

Problems in stewardship teaching in mission-established institutions

The project or church seems to belong to someone else

There is inadequate training of the treasurers

Why is there an urgency to relieve dependency?

Churches & mission societies often have broken relationships over money

Missionaries & agencies do not know how to remove the scaffold

Paternalistic mission societies are an embarrassment in the kingdom of God

Why is there an urgency to relieve dependency?

Discouraged church leaders go elsewhere for fellowship and employment

Dependent churches cannot reach their potential for the Lord

There is a problem not trusting local treasurers

Promoting local ownership

A feeling of ownership must precede responsibility

Programs may be inappropriate or too expensive to maintain

Both anticipate and precipitate change

How do you know if local leadership occurs

Do the leaders have to check with someone first?

Is control maintained by outside finances?

Where is the money coming from?

Sleeping Christians Non-believers Unemployed – via microloans,

etc. keep it small keep it local keep a watchful eye

Teaching giving

Ownership before stewardship Full heart experience before

teaching stewardship Emphasize “thanks”giving

Teaching giving

Emphasize the joy of giving, not just the law of tithing

Emphasize local creativity Train treasurers in integrity

Teaching giving

Don’t rely on the gimmicks of the world - raffles, games, teas,

Remember everything comes from the Lord

“In kind” offerings are as important as money

What sources of income hinder church giving? Income from church-run

properties Avoid all illegal practices Avoid private gifts to church

leaders who are unknown personally

What sources of income hinder church giving? Be careful of relief supplies

which ruin the value of locally grown produce

Avoid securing a vehicle through a developmental agency

What sources of income hinder church giving?

Community income better than church business

All people in the community benefit

Draws on resources of wealthy non-believers

What sources of income hinder church giving?

Church thrives on the giving of believers

The church is not competing with business people

Transitions to local ownership Make certain that the Holy

Spirit is guiding Meet to determine the

seriousness of the undertaking

Transitions to local ownership Set up a timetable for the

forseeable future Outside decisions will no

longer be the basis on which decisions are made

Don’t be derailed by indecision

Transition to local ownership

Expect opposition from satan He does not want strong churches Allow enough time for local

support Pray for the Lord to remove

difficulties Don’t worry about the reactions of

others

Transition to local ownership

Encourage local creativity Local solutions to local

problems New music from the hearts of

the people Local ways of raising funds Expect some insecurity

Indigenous Church and Missionary Sending Indigenous church = locally

owned and operated: China .Some missionaries had

introduced the ideas of self-supporting and self-propagating churches

.When cut off from other countries, the church became truly indigenous

Indigenous Church and Missionary Sending Indigenous church = locally

owned and operated: China They learned how to live in a

hostile political environment They decided to take the

gospel west - 10/40 window

African independent churches

Often started by leaders of mission-established churches with a “low ceiling” where they could not grow

They rejected foreign control and funding

African independent churches They were usually led by a

charismatic talented leader - a “prophet”

Not all would be called evangelical


The second generation is rethinking the isolationist stance of the first generation

Many churches were not involved in E3 evangelism


They show that churches can exist in Africa on their own resources.

They did not have such a huge superstructure built by foreign funds

Remember An indigenous church should seem

indigenous - not standing out from the culture as a foreign culture institution.

A church cannot be indigenous in its own society if it has the identity of the church from another society

Some have indigenous leadership but not indigenous support structure

Foundation of an Indigenous Outreach Movement It is born out of a full-heart

experience It is the result of WIDESPREAD

church spiritual renewal. The congregation is filled with

the Holy Spirit with spiritual energy left over for others

Foundation of an Indigenous Outreach Movement It requires special emphasis

and training. Pastoral training is not enough

to answer the questions facing cross-cultural missionaries

Foundation of an Indigenous Outreach Movement

It develops a caring sending base - with healthy mission support for those willing to serve at a distance

Faithful reporting back to prayer supporters and financial supporters

Keep the vision of the unreached - especially the 10/40 window

Foundation of an Indigenous Outreach Movement

Be careful of outside support to make your vision possible - they may not believe in the importance of local funding

They are not dependent on foreign funds to start or keep going

Alan Tippett’s marks of an indigenous church A healthy self-image - the Body

of Christ in its own community Self-functioning Self-determining Self-supporting Self-propagating Self-giving - managing its own

service programs

Healthy Indigenous churches

Indigenous theology – which deals with all the elements affecting the lives of their people daily

Indigenous worship - fitting for the culture


Indigenous church structure - it should fit the culture.

Can it support the structure it inherited without foreign funds?

Can the structure be reproduced elsewhere?


Self-image: Does the community look to

the church in times of crisis? Does it have a healthy

reproductive system?

What about a missions sending program?

There is no vision for the unreached

A poverty mentality exists They may have inherited an

expensive structure taking all their resources to maintain

There may be no prayer movement

What about a missions sending program?

Maybe there are no training institutes to prepare people for missionary training

Perhaps the church has no sending agency - usually a special department is necessary to function cross-culturally

There may be no prayer movement

African conversions - especially marginal conversions

Often we leave intact the unsaved person’s basic assumptions of life

A missionary sending movement requires many in the church to make that commitment

Examples: Life forever - descendents remember

your name Many hold two worldviews

simultaneously

Marginal commitments show…

Depth of commitment from beginning .Evidence .Behavior .Ritual .Values .Themes .Basic life presuppositions

Obstacles to genuine conversion

Easy believism - don’t count the cost

Motivation to accepting Jesus Christ - eg learning English, foreign travel, schooling & employment, etc

Conflicting world views

Results of marginal Christian conversions

Rise of independent churches - culturally appropriate and filled with power

Who is the final authority in their lives

Unhealthy fatalism - no local decisions and support


Unlikely to be enthusiastic missionaries

Unlikely to feel that the church deserves much of their income

For a dynamic missionary movement, the Holy Spirit, not the spirits, must be in charge


They will not destroy the sacred objects used in the previous way of life

The former way of solving problems will not be replaced

Christianity will not be seen as a way of life worth dying or living for

Answer: evangelism &/or discipleship

Conflicting World Views and the Problem of Dependency

Societies usually work by consensus - time consuming Man is seen as family, not

individuals West - project-oriented rather

than people-oriented = broken relationships if not careful

We need cross-cultural training


God in his providence places us to do His will and to encourage others to be all that they can be

Personal integrity may be sacrificed to keep the “heavy box” going


Worldview of control? Worldview to be controlled

as victims? Remember God allows some

things in our lives for His purposes in our lives

Problems with world views Power encounter = rendering

the other powers powerless. Sometimes a public

confrontation with the old sources of power is necessary

People movement - larger groups turn to Christ, like villages

Problems with world views Westerners tend to look at

worldviews as either/or Non-westerners often look at

Christianity as merely a supplement of what they already believe

Worldview problems

When you hold a unified worldview, this means that you can do some things, but other things you cannot do

Medicine - example western - what happened and how

did it happen? non-western - why did this happen,

who caused it?

.Ethnicity and Cross-cultural church planting: why dependency develops

A truly indigenous church has deep roots in the culture.

In that society, it is seen as a legitimate wholesome local institution to which they can belong.


Often ethnic churches are depen-dent, and must make decisions acceptable at the foreign support base.

Often the music is not indigenous, or worship service


Church structure is often too expensive

Often the vision comes from outside

We need to be willing to leave behind that which is not essential but determined by the outsider’s culture.


We need to preserve self-respect and allow expression of good things in the target culture.

We need to be careful not to undermine the parents and their role

Suggestions of cross-cultural planters

Inter-ethnic mission societies have a better chance of starting an indigenous church

Train in cross-cultural and inter-ethnic institutions

Role of business people in self-reliance for churches

They must be soundly converted before they will give generously to the Lord

They may be willing to live in a more conservative lifestyle

Enhancing the role of the businessman

Make the purpose of the church clear - separate out business parts.

Church and business need each other

Both groups should promote spiritual renewal

Church leaders must show themselves as hardworking shepherds


Business people must be certain that there is economic justice in how they earn their money.

They can set the example of caring for employees, giving good quality service, and generosity to the church


Business people must make the frame of reference the kingdom of God

Help the unemployed by revolving loan funds. Local funds are preferred - better monitored

What triggers the move to Self-Reliance?

Direct revelation from the Lord - sometimes supernatural

Divine intervention - God removing foreign funds.

It partially depends on the teaching of faithful stewardship

Widespread genuine spiritual revival is needed!

What Triggers the move to Self-Reliance?

Sound teaching initially with those sowing the gospel seed

Sound teaching and practices promoted by committed and creative local leaders

What Triggers the move to Self-Reliance? Not so effective = one-sided

plan initiated by missionaries.

The question is one of true psychological ownership

Outside funds are arbitrarily cut off - be careful that this is not an act of paternalism.

What Triggers the move to Self-Reliance? Serious restructuring of

institutions inherited from the past

Positive shift in the attitude among the missionaries

Avoiding dependency in Cross-cultural church planting

When church planting, E2 or E3 congregations should avoid sending too many persons from the original congregation to help

Avoid well-paid outside church planter beyond the capabilities of the church

Avoiding dependency in Cross-cultural church planting

Things to do: Encourage the church from the

beginning to use stewardship Teach stewardship from

salvation Without adequate base,

finances will prevent building & sending missionaries

Cross-cultural church planting

Don’t pity people that they cannot pay

Don’t surrender leadership to outside wealthier believers

Consider self-supporting church leaders

Consider renting facilities until you can build

Spiritual renewal is vital

Best ideas for change

The funders need to be willing to change

Spirit of anticipation to change Do what you need to do to

precipitate change. Ideally the beginning of stopping

dependence will come from those who are dependent

Best ideas for change

Know the difference between absolute poverty where help is necessary, and relative poverty where change is necessary

You will find those in relative poverty can give to God

What can outsiders do?

The biggest thing outsiders can do is pray. It is a spiritual battle

Remind dependent people about the unreached world.

Ask them to help reach, explain-ing that resources need to be channeled there


Help spiritual maturity resulting in joyful giving.

Those who fund must look at how/why they fund. For example, they be deliberately absent when funding decisions are made.


Cause awareness of local resources

You can work not only to increase income, but also to decrease expenses

Have sermons & seminars, etc on stewardship

Initiating the process of change: Recognize the role of outsiders

in creating the problem Have frank discussions about

the current situation Be humble and admit that

altruism of outsiders may be behind the dependency

Initiating the process of change: Seek advice of local people for

a proper solution True interdependence is best

at the local level among relative equals

Meaningful Ways to Help the Poor

The poor lack margin - financially or spiritually

Building in biblical principles will give you margin against poverty, sickness, demonic possession, and depression

The good news of God is the best way to help those who lack margin

Everyone must pay their debts Christians must pay their taxes Christians should tithe - start

teaching from day 1. This means that we recognize that everything we have comes from God

Christians should put something into savings

Wrong assumptions

The poor have nothing to give back to God

Change your idea of what can go into the offering basket

Christian demeanor and the dependency syndrome

Avoid the mandate to rule syndrome

Be willing to let the nationals take over, even to not showing up at meetings

Defer to the local leadership We urgently need extensive cross-

cultural training and sensitivity Avoid paternalism

Reflections on Bible Societies One Bible society was

supported from the outside by more than 99%

There is a problem of getting funds to go out of the country “blocked cash”

Reflections on Bible Societies We need to work to get the

countries able to print their own Bibles

It is a problem to buy and give away highly subsidized Bibles

Reflections on Bible Societies We need to use sound business

principles to work with Bibles There is a problem when

directors also belong to NPO’s as they are now in competition to raise funds...

Reflections on Bible Societies We need business-minded

directors. There is need of men who can

use tough-minded “bottom-line” mentality

They must be people of integrity

Practical suggestionsfor Bible Societies

Reconsider who should be on Bible society boards.

Avoid dependency mentality. Put in church leaders for questions of translation and interchurch cooperation

Have the general secretary of the Bible society get paid directly by the churches

Practical suggestionsfor Bible Societies

Create a network of market-minded business men of integrity

Experiment with locally printed editions of Bibles at lower cost

Get a “can do” mentality at all levels of Bible Society activity, including costs related to translation, produc-tion, storage and distribution.

Sustainability in Medical Mission Institutions

Dependency in the institutions has its roots in spiritual issues

The road to dependency is often paved with good intentions

Some of the best examples were from places without government subsidy

The key is local ownership with independent board leadership

Sustainability in Medical Mission Institutions

Short-termers help when visiting teams of specialists come.

Have an atmosphere where doctors can feel at home

To transfer medical care to local ownership Anticipate a change Precipitate the change - work

proactively Learn how to get change Be prepared to do serious

restructuring if necessary Don’t expect someone to hand you

a ready-made solution

AIDS and Orphanages in Africa

Behavior change is the biggest need to control AIDS - a closed sexual relationship with spouse/spouses

Accurate information of HIV carrier vs. AIDS is important

What to do about orphans - but orphanages may bypass the extended family and the local church

AIDS and Orphanages in Africa

What can outsiders do to strengthen the extended family?

.Increase food production .Stimulate job creation .Give appropriate job training .Revolving loan funds What are the roles of the

nationals in making decisions???

Maximizing the benefit of short-term missions Cultural sensitivity is very important -

both listening and being are important in ministry

Positive methods: Serious training in cross-cultural issues,

including other religions Spiritual warfare training Awareness of how the rest of the world

views Americans Self-examination for areas of personal

strengths and weaknesses.

Problems with short term missions

More doing than being Attitude of superiority We think that we can do the job

better than the local people. We must not undermine local initiative and resources

Ownership of projects Insensitivity to cultural issues

A positive civic organization example

The group went to learn .They were not isolated in western

mission stations or hotels. They lived with Indian hosts

They had preparation to be learners

Suggestions for short term missions Come to learn Remember you are guests, not

specialists Don’t look for simplistic answers to

complex cultural issues Your testimony has value, but share it

discreetly - better to listen to the testimonies from the people where you go

Suggestions for short term missions Who you are is more important

that what you do People in absolute poverty need

help to survive. Relative poverty - they are quite capable of surviving

Take time to learn about the country

The course: Perspectives on the World Christian Movement is helpful

PART III – TO GIVE OR

NOT TO GIVE

A number of financial options are available

Part III Summary from To Give or Not to Give: Rowell

Money is amoral – but can bind the owner

We need to model dependence on God and not self-reliance

We need to show the cross

Preoccupation with money

Focus strictly on budgets, marketing schemes, and numbers may leave us without spiritual power!

To work for God’s glory:

More cooperation and less competition

More self-denial and less self-sufficiency

Less ambition to lead and more willingness to serve

More willingness to develop and less desire to dominate

What sort of poverty?

Absolute poverty = lacks food, safe water, sanitation, health care, and personal safety

Relative poverty – denied regular amenities of that society

Social exclusion – denied opportunities for education, advancement; living in dangerous situations

Western missionaries must be careful

Not to use fear of dependency as an excuse for not giving

Instead- help impoverished people find their true identity as humans

Have true unity with God, with others, the environment, and with themselves too

We need to

Have an approach which pleases God

Have staying power, and not just respond to a crisis

Help the culture correspond to Christ

Problems with dependency

Unhealthy reliance on Western support limiting their vision

Subjugation of native workers, making them passive or at least considering them inferior to the donors

This is NOT to discourage western giving

Most problems with giving is the strings attached to the funds

Western organizations as well as NGOs will sometimes compete for the best talented nationals, removing them from the churches which are struggling to become self-sufficient

The right attitude

Humility, not patronizing Sharing is not patronizing No double standards of

lifestyle choice, financial support and ministry responsibilities

Honor each partner’s responsibilities

The right attitude

Allow nationals to cast a vision or initiate ministry – this will reduce the risk of dependency

Foster interdependency. This is illustrated in I Cor. 12:14-26 where we see that various parts of the body of Christ work together [14] For the body is not one member, but many.

The right attitude

[15] If the foot shall say, Because I am not the hand, I am not of the body; is it therefore not of the body?[16] And if the ear shall say, Because I am not the eye, I am not of the body; is it therefore not of the body?[17] If the whole body were an eye, where were the hearing? If the whole were hearing, where were the smelling?

The right attitude

[18] But now hath God set the members every one of them in the body, as it hath pleased him.[19] And if they were all one member, where were the body?[20] But now are they many members, yet but one body…. [25] That there should be no schism in the body; but that the members should have the same care one for another.

The right attitude

26] And whether one member suffer, all the members suffer with it; or one member be honoured, all the members rejoice with it.

Interdependency

We need to receive as well as give

We need to be able to teach and learn from each other, and even reprove and offer correction to each other

Reciprocity is tied to responsibility

The three-self paradigm

Self-governing, self-supporting, and self-propagating started with Henry Venn and John Nevius.

Both were trying to avoid European dominance in a time when Europeans were feeling superior and colonial imperialism occurred. They were not worried about dependency

The goal of Nevius

No outside dominance Outside assistance is OK Remember God calls us to

generous giving. In Mt. 25:31-46, Jesus tells about how those who treat others at the end of the tribulation will be considered as to serving Himself

Jesus judgment after the tribulation: Mt 25:31-46

[34] Then shall the King say unto them on his right hand, Come, ye blessed of my Father, inherit the kingdom prepared for you from the foundation of the world:[35] For I was an hungred, and ye gave me meat: I was thirsty, and ye gave me drink: I was a stranger, and ye took me in:


[36] Naked, and ye clothed me: I was sick, and ye visited me: I was in prison, and ye came unto me.[37] Then shall the righteous answer him, saying, Lord, when saw we thee an hungred, and fed thee? or thirsty, and gave thee drink?[38] When saw we thee a stranger, and took thee in? or naked, and clothed thee?[39] Or when saw we thee sick, or in prison, and came unto thee?


[40] And the King shall answer and say unto them, Verily I say unto you, Inasmuch as ye have done it unto one of the least of these my brethren, ye have done it unto me.[41] Then shall he say also unto them on the left hand, Depart from me, ye cursed, into everlasting fire, prepared for the devil and his angels…[46] And these shall go away into everlasting punishment: but the righteous into life eternal.

Some Biblical principles on giving

We are hypocrites if we see others in need, and fail to help them, particularly fellow believers:

James 2:14-17[14] What doth it profit, my brethren, though a man say he hath faith, and have not works? can faith save him?[15] If a brother or sister be naked, and destitute of daily food.

Don’t be a hypocrite

16] And one of you say unto them, Depart in peace, be ye warmed and filled; notwithstanding ye give them not those things which are needful to the body; what doth it profit?[17] Even so faith, if it hath not works, is dead, being alone.

No hypocrisy I Jn. 3:16-18[16] Hereby perceive we the

love of God, because he laid down his life for us: and we ought to lay down our lives for the brethren. [17] But whoso hath this world's good, and seeth his brother have need, and shutteth up his bowels of compassion from him, how dwelleth the love of God in him? [18] My little children, let us not love in word, neither in tongue; but in deed and in truth.

Biblical principles of giving

Galatians 6:9-10[9] And let us not be weary in well doing: for in due season we shall reap, if we faint not.[10] As we have therefore opportunity, let us do good unto all men, especially unto them who are of the household of faith.

God Himself owns all resources

Psalm 24:[1] The earth is the LORD's, and the fulness thereof; the world, and they that dwell therein.

Haggai 2:[8] The silver is mine, and the gold is mine, saith the LORD of hosts.

Thus God has ultimate control of what happens to all resources

God controls all resources I Chron. 29:11-12[11] Thine, O LORD, is the

greatness, and the power, and the glory, and the victory, and the majesty: for all that is in the heaven and in the earth is thine; thine is the kingdom, O LORD, and thou art exalted as head above all.[12] Both riches and honour come of thee, and thou reignest over all; and in thine hand is power and might; and in thine hand it is to make great, and to give strength unto all.

Deut. 8:17-18

God controls all resources Deut. 8:17-18[17] And thou say in thine

heart, My power and the might of mine hand hath gotten me this wealth. [18] But thou shalt remember the LORD thy God: for it is he that giveth thee power to get wealth, that he may establish his covenant which he sware unto thy fathers, as it is this day

Stewards must be faithful:

I Cor. 4:[1] Let a man so account of us, as of the ministers of Christ, and stewards of the mysteries of God. [2] Moreover it is required in stewards, that a man be found faithful.

We are dependent on God:[6] And these things, brethren, I have in a figure transferred to myself and to Apollos for your sakes; that ye might learn in us not to think of men above that which is written, that no one of you be puffed up for one against another.[7] For who maketh thee to differ from another? and what hast thou that thou didst not receive? now if thou didst receive it, why dost thou glory, as if thou hadst not received it?

God wants our blessing to call others to Himself:

Ps. 67:[5] Let the people praise thee, O God; let all the people praise thee.[6] Then shall the earth yield her increase; and God, even our own God, shall bless us.[7] God shall bless us; and all the ends of the earth shall fear him.

God wants us to share:

2 Cor. 8:[13] For I mean not that other men be eased, and ye burdened:[14] But by an equality, that now at this time your abundance may be a supply for their want, that their abundance also may be a supply for your want: that there may be equality:[15] As it is written, He that had gathered much had nothing over; and he that had gathered little had no lack.

Some Biblical principles on giving: God wants us to share

Proverbs 11:[24] There is that scattereth, and yet increaseth; and there is that withholdeth more than is meet, but it tendeth to poverty.[25] The liberal soul shall be made fat: and he that watereth shall be watered also himself.

God repays giving to the poor:

Proverbs 19:[17] He that hath pity upon the poor lendeth unto the LORD; and that which he hath given will he pay him again.

Fools hoard

Luke 12:[16] And he spake a parable unto them, saying, The ground of a certain rich man brought forth plentifully:[17] And he thought within himself, saying, What shall I do, because I have no room where to bestow my fruits?[18] And he said, This will I do: I will pull down my barns, and build greater; and there will I bestow all my fruits and my goods.

Fools hoard

Luke 12:[19] And I will say to my soul, Soul, thou hast much goods laid up for many years; take thine ease, eat, drink, and be merry.[20] But God said unto him, Thou fool, this night thy soul shall be required of thee: then whose shall those things be, which thou hast provided?[21] So is he that layeth up treasure for himself, and is not rich toward God.

God gives extra weight to the gifts of the poor

Mark 12:[41] And Jesus sat over against the treasury, and beheld how the people cast money into the treasury: and many that were rich cast in much.[42] And there came a certain poor widow, and she threw in two mites, which make a farthing.

God gives extra weight to the gifts of the poor

Mark 12:[43] And he called unto him his disciples, and saith unto them, Verily I say unto you, That this poor widow hath cast more in, than all they which have cast into the treasury:[44] For all they did cast in of their abundance; but she of her want did cast in all that she had, even all her living.

How to Give Without Dependency

Dependency Giving with

domination Subjugation of

nationals Competition via

westerns Patronizing favorites Complacency re

multiplying Giving minimalized Western

agenda/control Stagnates growth

Investing Model of discipleship Sponsorship of

nationals Model sacrificial giving Promoting their

fellows Capacity for

multiplication

Giving maximized National

agenda/control Stimulates growth

God changes lives

Zaccheus gives generously God changes thieves who steal to

those who work to help others: Eph. 4:28[28] Let him that stole steal no more: but rather let him labour, working with his hands the thing which is good, that he may have to give to him that needeth.

Serving God vs. mammon

Poor believers are prized as those rich in faith. James 2:[5] Hearken, my beloved brethren, Hath not God chosen the poor of this world rich in faith, and heirs of the kingdom which he hath promised to them that love him?[6] But ye have despised the poor. Do not rich men oppress you, and draw you before the judgment seats?

Prosperity is spiritually dangerous

Brings pride and self-reliance Often the poor are despised See the poor as spiritual assets

and not as financial liabilities Give them dignity

What we should do

We should serve God and use money

We must not use God and serve money

The church at present time is only 0.02% of giving to reach the lost. The rest is for Christians

Principles of giving

Manna – in the wilderness, everyone was equal economically. We should be generous and share.

The example was the Macedonian church in 2 Cor. 8:[12] For if there be first a willing mind, it is accepted according to that a man hath, and not according to that he hath not.

Principles of giving

[13] For I mean not that other men be eased, and ye burdened: [14] But by an equality, that now at this time your abundance may be a supply for their want, that their abundance also may be a supply for your want: that there may be equality: [15] As it is written, He that had gathered much had nothing over; and he that had gathered little had no lack.

Remember

We cannot serve two masters – both God and mammon

2 Cor. 9:[8] And God is able to make all grace abound toward you; that ye, always having all sufficiency in all things, may abound to every good work:

Initial principles of helping in the United States

God intervenes in human troubles; man who is created in His image should do so and help also

Charity is best experienced in close personal relationships

Man’s greatest needs are spiritual

Principles of help…

Sharing comes in the framework of church, family and neighborhood

Mostly help was in kind Distinction between worthy poor

(situations are difficult) and wayward poor – they make their own problems

Principles of help

Avoid public statutory relief – which promotes indulgent lifestyle

Personal involvement in the spiritual aspects of life

Over time, repentance and change in life show true change

Problems in the USA

Social darwinism – ignored the poor and favored the rich – bad

Social universalism – better, but asked the government to care for the poor – their power, money, and size. They substituted tax for tithe, and material aid was separated from spiritual considerations

USA and welfare

Johnson’s administration was worse – bureaucracy without productivity. People wanted their entitlements.

there was a redistribution of wealth but no moral transformation

Warfare, not welfare

During World War II and afterwards, the USA put full effort into the war without requiring paybacks. There was a commitment to thrift and generosity.

We need the same warfare mentality in the war against satan now

Christians in the USA do not want to give

They keep 98.4% of their weath 6% of evangelicals tithe USA holds 80% of evangelical

wealth Only 0.2% go for reaching others The USA government budget – true

foreign aid is only 0.14% of the federal budget

In the world today

The wealthiest 20% consume 80% of goods

The poorest 20% consume 1.4% of goods

Be careful that affluence does not spoil your influence

Problems in USA lifestyle

Insulation from the culture you wish to impact

Isolation from neighbors in our passion for privacy

Pace of life which is too hectic Illusions of superiority Good may lead to hostility and

envy

Rules to help: Affiliation

Interpersonal networks to support indigent people

Social nets of family and friends Rebuild families and put orphans in

a family Support system for material

assistance

Rules for help: Bonding

Material support must combine with persistent ongoing commitment

We suffer with others in need Personal involvement is key

Rules for help: Categorize

Distinguish between the worthy poor and the wayward poor.

Help the worthy poor The wayward poor need jobs

Test the willingness to work Train – social and employment skills Accountability

Rules to help: discern

Gifts of the Spirit – so we are not relying on human worldly wisdom

Remember that people are lost Employment – top priority Freedom to choose work and a

career with a fair day’s pay Receive God’s grace

Principles of sending groups

The primary group responsible for missions is the church, not the mission agencies

Providential provocation – consider going where the need is greatest, with doors open to new ministry opportunities. But commit for the long haul

Principles for sending groups

Romans 5:20 Where sin abounds, grace abounds much more.

We must be willing to go and even suffer to experience this grace

Prophetic view – sometimes it is prudent to get property in perilous times if God wills it (Jeremiah buying land occupied by the Babylonians)

Principles for those who go

The poor need our friendship as much as our finances

We need a long term covenantal relationship – not a commercial or contractural one


Promote the nationals: teach them to see with spiritual eyes and speak for themselves

The kingdom of God is populated by the meek, the poor and the persecuted


Stand at the side of nationals as a committed ally and encourage them

Proportional sacrifice: Money, manpower, language acumen, cultural knowledge, disciplined austerity

Peacemaking prayer including others

Personal covenants with close personal relationships

17 missions and money

Spiritual

western missionary

missionary discrepancy

secure missionary

missionary adaptation

missionary mortality

relational costs affluence

strategic costs affluence

robert patton missionary