Marv Newell is an author and the Senior Vice President for MissioNexus. I've known Marv for several years and always enjoy being with him. He is a sharp thinker and good friend.Last month, he wrote a very good article that provided some guidelines on how North Americans should relate to Majority World believers when it comes to collaboration in missions. Check out his full post: "Relating Better to Majority World Missions".While I am still in favor of the understanding and terminology of "partners," here are his six cautions when connecting with those from outside of North America:
- We dare not be offended when criticized by the leaders who represent this movement.
- We dare not be condescending.
- We dare not put them on a pedestal.
- We dare not misunderstand the new relationship that has been a progression and continues to evolve.
- We dare not call them by the wrong name.
- We dare not be simply a “willing participant,” but rather must be a “worthy participant.”
As churches in the West continue to connect with brothers and sisters across the world, challenges will arise. The growth of the Majority World Church is both a wonderful blessing and a tremendous pressure point on the Church.In addition to Marv's six (and using his terminology), I would add two more:1) We dare not neglect to go and make disciples of all nations if Majority World believers do not partner with us.2) We dare not take a hands-off approach, neglecting God-given centuries of wisdom and experience, when partnering with Majority World believers. What would you add?