Studying Christian Missionaries involves exploring the history, impact, and experiences of individuals who have traveled globally to spread Christianity.
This activity covers the theological basis of missions, the cultural and historical contexts within which missionaries have worked, and the outcomes of their efforts, both positive and controversial. Participants can engage in activities such as reading biographies, analyzing missionary strategies, and discussing the ethical dimensions of missionary work.
Benefits
- Enhances understanding of global religions and cultures
- Develops critical thinking skills through the study of intercultural interactions
- Fosters empathy and respect for diverse perspectives
- Encourages reflection on ethical considerations in spreading religious beliefs
Resources
- Websites: Joshua Project (https://joshuaproject.net/) for information on unreached people groups
- YouTube Videos: Biographies and documentaries of famous missionaries, such as “The Life of Hudson Taylor” or “Jim Elliot: He Is No Fool”
- Documentaries: “End of the Spear,” a story about the life and legacy of Nate Saint and other missionaries in Ecuador
- Books: “Through Gates of Splendor” by Elisabeth Elliot (Amazon) recounts the story of missionaries in Ecuador in the 1950s
Best Age to Start
12+ years old
Equipment and Materials
- Internet access: Price varies by location
- Books/Documentaries: Free (with library access) or up to $20 for purchases
Starting Tips
- Start with a biography of a well-known missionary to understand the personal commitment and challenges involved.
- Explore the cultural and historical background of the areas where missionaries have worked to understand the context of their efforts.
- Discuss the ethical implications of missionary work, considering both positive impacts and controversies.
Commitment to Improve
- Dedicate 1-2 hours per week to studying the lives and impacts of different missionaries.
- Engage in discussions or debates to explore different perspectives on missionary work.
Requirements/Tasks for Mastery
- Biographical Study: Research and write detailed reports on the lives and work of at least three significant Christian missionaries from different historical periods.
- Cultural Analysis: Conduct a study on the cultural and historical context of a specific mission field, analyzing the challenges and strategies employed by missionaries.
- Ethical Reflection: Write an essay reflecting on the ethical dimensions of missionary work, considering its impacts on cultural identity and autonomy.
Most Famous People Known for This Activity
- Hudson Taylor: Founder of the China Inland Mission, known for his deep commitment to spreading Christianity in China and for adopting Chinese culture as part of his mission work.
- Mother Teresa: Known for her missionary work with the people with low-income in Kolkata (Calcutta), India, and founding the Missionaries of Charity to continue this work globally.
Studying Christian Missionaries offers a complex view of the role of faith in world history, prompting students to consider deeply the intersections of religion, culture, and ethics.