
Topic | Long-Term Missions
Most Recent

An Examination of the American Church’s Missionary Failures Abroad
Explore how cultural insensitivity, financial mismanagement, and neo-colonial attitudes have undermined the American church’s global missionary eff...

What It Means for a Church to Be Missions-Minded: Evidence and Impact
A missions-minded church isn’t just about local outreach—it’s about embracing the global call to spread the gospel. From supporting missionaries to...
How to Discover God’s Purpose for Your Life
Why are you still on this Earth? Because our Father desires us to tell as many people as possible that His Son loves them and longs to forgive them. He desires that they trust His Son for forgiveness.
“Who Will Tell My People?”
Encompass World Partners | Feb 27, 2025 | Missions Stories
On a mission trip to Papua New Guinea, a tribal man—bone through his nose, spear in hand—asked, “Will you come tell my people God’s book?” His desperate plea sparked a realization: countless souls remain untouched by the gospel. Who will answer the call?
Celebrating Betsy’s 18 Years of Ministry in Central Asia
Encompass World Partners | Feb 19, 2025 | Profiles & Interviews
For nearly two decades, Betsy poured herself out to serve young adults with disabilities in...
The Missionary Welfare State: How American Missions Have Created Dependency Instead of Empowerment
Allen Mowery | Feb 17, 2025 | Church Involvement, Opinion & Analysis
For generations, American missionaries have brought the gospel, education, and humanitarian aid to communities in need, often transforming lives in powerful ways. Yet, in many cases, these well-intentioned efforts have inadvertently fostered long-term dependency rather than sustainable growth. Instead of equipping local churches and leaders to thrive independently, missions have too often created a system where foreign funding and governance are necessary for survival. We explore the unintended consequences of the “missionary welfare state” and calls for a radical shift in how missions are done—one that prioritizes local leadership, financial self-sufficiency, and true empowerment over perpetual aid.
Millennial Engagement in Evangelical Missions: Trends, Motivations, and Future Implications
Allen Mowery | Feb 16, 2025 | Opinion & Analysis
Millennial Engagement in Evangelical Missions examines how a new generation is redefining missionary work by embracing digital tools, flexible training, and innovative outreach strategies that depart from traditional hierarchical models. The article traces the evolution from rigid, centralized mission paradigms to adaptive approaches where millennials seek authentic community and practical engagement. It highlights the benefits of interactive online learning and real-time mentoring while addressing challenges such as outdated organizational policies and generational disconnects. By offering concrete recommendations for revamping training programs and support structures, the piece charts a transformative path for evangelical missions, positioning millennial energy and creativity as key drivers for the future of outreach.
Increase Your Church’s “Missional Fluency”
Encompass World Partners | Feb 13, 2025 | Church Involvement, Resources
How do you get and keep people on mission? If only it were as easy as telling them, “Let’s Go!” While it’s not quite that simple, Calvert Grace in Owings, Maryland uses that verbiage as the name of their annual outreach conference.
What Tired Men Teach Us About Missions
ABWE | Feb 12, 2025 | Opinion & Analysis, Resources
To truly accomplish the Great Commission, many types of global workers are needed to build the church of God around the world.
10 Ways Churches and Individuals Can Support Missions and Missionaries
MOJ Team | Feb 11, 2025 | Church Involvement, Resources
Discover practical ways for everyday believers to get involved in missions—through prayer, local outreach, and supporting missionaries worldwide.
Til Death: The reality of mortality and eternal consequence
Allen Mowery | Feb 10, 2025 | Opinion & Analysis
The familiar vow “til death do us part” isn’t just about wedding promises—it’s a reminder that every commitment we make is shadowed by the reality of our finite time. Instead of fearing our mortality, I invite you to see it as a call to live intentionally.

Prayer Need?
Does your ministry have a prayer need? Submit your prayer requests, and let the body of believers take it before the Throne of Grace.
Table of Contents
- Common Pitfalls in Cross-Cultural Missions
- Misunderstanding Cultural Contexts
- Dependency and Disempowerment
- Savior Complex and Power Imbalance
- Ineffective Communication, Language, and Nonverbal Cues
- Ethical Dilemmas in Cross-Cultural Ministry
- Navigating Syncretism vs. Contextualization
- Short-Term Missions Ethics
- Hidden Costs and Community Disruption
- Strategies for Effective Cross-Cultural Engagement
- Comprehensive Pre-Departure Training
- Prioritize Cultural Learning and Language Acquisition
- Empower Indigenous Leaders
- Practice Mutual Accountability
- Engage in Pre-Field and On-Field Debriefing
- Personal and Psychological Challenges for Mission Workers
- Culture Shock and Isolation
- Interpersonal Conflicts and Team Dynamics
- Emotional Resilience and Mental Health
- Practical Tools and Resources
- Final Encouragement

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