Crossword Puzzle 11: World missions philosophy and strategy
TL;DR:
This crossword puzzle reinforces key figures and ideas that have shaped global missionary thought and practice. An accompanying section compares major approaches to world missions. These contrasts show that effective global missions work must balance relationships, strategy, and cultural sensitivity while keeping the gospel central.
Based on material in chapter 11 of Discovering Missions by Charles Gailey and Howard Culbertson.
Challenge: Can you solve this puzzle even if you do not have the book? If not, then
use this online PDF of Discovering
Missions to find the answers!
Based on material in the book Discovering Missions by
Charles Gailey and Howard Culbertson, published by what is now known as The Foundry.
"I am not a huge fan of crosswords, but I like how these are basically a review of
what we read. Thank you." -- Andrew T., Nazarene Bible College student
Contrasting philosophies and strategies
People involved in cross-cultural missions are guided by a wide range of philosophies and
strategic approaches. These comparisons highlight different emphases, which often overlap in practice:
Incarnational ministry vs. proclamation:
Incarnational ministry stresses living among the people, learning
their language and culture, and building relationships as a means to share the gospel.
This approach can include both meeting tangible needs and clearly proclaiming the gospel.
The proclamation approach prioritizes boldly proclaiming the gospel through
preaching, teaching, and evangelistic events. It emphasizes delivering the gospel message clearly and directly while attending to the cultural context of its hearers.
Contextualization vs. preservation:
Contextualization seeks to communicate the gospel and shape mission methods in ways that make sense within the local cultural context. It emphasizes finding points of connection between the gospel and local culture, customs, and worldview while preserving biblical faithfulness.
The preservation approach aims to preserve the purity and integrity of the gospel message. It
may be cautious about contextualization, fearing syncretism or dilution of biblical truths.
Practitioners emphasize doctrinal faithfulness when evaluating culturally adapted forms of ministry.
Relational vs. strategic:
The relational approach prioritizes building deep relationships with people and
communities as a foundation for sharing the gospel. It often involves long-term commitment,
patience, and trust-building. Relational ministry can also involve careful planning and clear goals.
The strategic approach focuses on planning, resource allocation, and measurable
goals in mission work. It may use methods such as mass evangelism, media outreach, or
church planting movements, with an emphasis on fruitfulness and the potential for growth. Effective strategy also depends on relationships and cultural understanding.
Empowerment: This approach seeks to empower local believers and communities to
take ownership of their own spiritual growth, leadership development, and mission outreach. It emphasizes discipleship, training, and equipping.
Dependency: Outside assistance can unintentionally create dependence when it replaces local initiative or responsibility. Assistance that strengthens local ownership can support the growth and long-term sustainability of churches and ministries.
Indigenous leadership vs. long-term foreign leadership:
The indigenous leadership approach prioritizes raising up and empowering local
leaders to take leadership roles in church planting, discipleship, and ministry oversight. It values
local knowledge, cultural understanding, and ownership of ministries.
Long-term foreign leadership: This approach involves sending people from outside the
target culture to lead or supervise mission work. Outside leaders may bring experience and resources. Their effectiveness depends on cultural understanding, accountability, and partnership with local believers.
Many missions organizations and practitioners incorporate elements from various approaches depending on the
context and goals of specific cross-cultural mission ministries.
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