Although these are not real people, their stories accurately portray what missionaries often face on the field. Far too many people attempt the difficult task of missions with inadequate training, forgetting that the world can wait for a properly prepared worker.

Bill and Suzy could have better equipped the Pocomchi leaders if they had taken advanced classes in Bible. And a course in cultural anthropology would have helped Joe discover how to peel back the layers of Lahu culture so he could address the heart of the culture instead of its surface.

Churches can play an important role in raising the preparation level of missionaries by insisting they get the training they need before going overseas. This preparation should include:

• Developing the disciplines of prayer, fasting and meditation.
• Participating in a screening process that encourages emotional health.
• Acquiring skills in interpersonal relationships.
• Obtaining advanced study in Bible and missions.
• Studying the language, history and culture of the people.
• Gaining practical experience in Christian ministry before leaving the States.

Preparation is not a trivial matter. It provides the expertise missionaries need to effectively establish churches cross-culturally. It often determines the number of souls missionaries will present on the altar to God (Romans 15:15-16) and how much thanksgiving the Father will receive from converts grateful for the grace they have found in Christ (2 Cor. 9:12).

Resources on Missionary Preparation