by Jon Konnerup
When I compare the number of new missionaries approved with those resigning or going home to heaven, I note that our missionary force is staying in the positive — not by much, but still positive. In May 2008, we had what we consider a large class of approvals with 35 career missionaries, seven TEAM missionaries, and two reinstatements. Last year we approved 20 career and recognized 17 TEAM. This year we will see more than 30 join our missionary family.
Despite these statistics, I wonder why we don’t see more people surrendering for the mission field. Why are fewer of the younger generation surrendering to ministry? Have they not grasped an understanding of the Great Commission as those in the past? Are there barriers in our churches that keep young people from pursuing full-time Christian service? During the next few months I will share what I consider to be some of the reasons why fewer people surrender to serve as missionaries.
1. The mission of the church. I wonder if world evangelism has become an insignificant program of the church rather than “The Mission of the Church.” Perhaps this is one of the reasons missionaries struggle to raise financial support. Perhaps our youth observe these struggles and question the church’s priorities and thus have less desire to enter the ministry and live a life of service.
2. The political climate. Since the attacks on our nation on September 11, 2001, I have seen an increased fear of people to go and serve the Lord internationally. Indeed, our planet is a threatening place to live. With the volatile situation in the Middle East, the move toward socialism in Latin America, the tensions in North Korea and Iran, and the threat of terrorism around the world, I wonder if our youth are hesitant to consider cross-cultural service. Our world has always been plagued with troubles of some kind, but it may be that our awareness is heightened due to TV coverage and the Internet. Early pioneer missionaries dealt with a variety of issues such as deadly diseases, dangerous travel with less-than-worthy vessels, hostility of other religions and governments, and wars. Sometimes surrender and service brings suffering for the cause of Christ. I still believe it is true that the best place to be is in the will of God — no matter where.
3. Selfishness. Sacrifice is not a frequent theme in most churches today. Is there less challenge for people to totally surrender and follow the call of God from today’s pulpits? Maybe that is why there are fewer who are yielding their all as a total living sacrifice for their Lord (Romans 12:1-2). Let’s remind our people that the greatest life is the abundant life of serving Christ and obeying His commission.
In the following months I will share more about this, and I want to know what you think. Email me with your thoughts or suggestions at jkonnerup@bbfimissions.com.