International Mission Strategies That Can Help us Reach People Here in America
For many years, international mission strategies have been focused on reaching people overseas with the gospel. However, as the world changes, it has become evident that these same strategies can be just as effective in reaching people in America. In particular, the components of oral methods, small groups, and the high value of relationships are invaluable in sharing the good news of Jesus with people in our communities. In many ways, these ideas return us to what we used to do effectively here in America.
Oral methods are among the most significant factors in the success of international mission strategies. In many cultures, the written word is not the primary means of communication, so oral methods, such as bible storytelling and sharing one's own story, have been used effectively to share the gospel. This same approach is returning to use in America, where many people are more receptive to stories than theological arguments or presentations. Americans learning methods are also changing. For instance, take the level of reading in America. In my area, 28% of the people are illiterate, while 31% are functionally illiterate, meaning they can read at a 7-9th grade level[1]. This comprises 59% of the people in this area, with a population of 1.7 million, who primarily learn through other methods instead of reading. Reviewing several of the population centers in the USA shows similar reading rates. Using oral methods such as bible storying, believers can effectively communicate the gospel message engagingly and memorably.
Another critical component of international mission strategies is using small home groups. In many countries where Christianity is persecuted or not widely accepted, believers gather in small groups to study the Bible, pray, and encourage one another. America has had Sunday School ( Small Groups) gatherings for many years. The difference is that many churches in America have shifted toward using the large gathering of worship services as their primary entry point into the church. While nothing is wrong with this, it is becoming financially difficult for churches to create a worship experience that appeals to a non-believer.
Home small groups can effectively reach people who will not visit a church building. They may be willing to come to a home that offers a safe and supportive environment where people can explore faith and ask questions without fear of judgment. This small group trend is growing into a cell church movement. Cell churches have the small group setting as their primary entry point to the church. A missiologist researcher friend has shared that in an Asian country, he studied, he can show 1.7 million new believers in ten years through a small group movement[2]. To my knowledge, we have not seen such a movement here in any American church. Many people seek a sense of community and belonging, which a small group can offer. As relationships within these groups deepen, people are often more receptive to the gospel message and more likely to make a commitment to Christ.
The most significant factor in the success of international mission strategies is the high value placed on relationships. Relationships are central to daily life in many cultures, and trust is built over time through shared experiences and mutual support. This same approach can be used in America, where many seek authentic relationships and a sense of belonging. This is nothing new to most pastors, but we have moved away from engaging people on a deeper, personal, relational level. In an international context developing a deeper relationship is a must if you want to have the right to share the gospel. As believers invest time and energy into building relationships with non-believers, they can create opportunities to share the gospel message naturally and effectively. By prioritizing relationships, believers can demonstrate the love and grace of Jesus in tangible ways that lead to a conversation about salvation.
In conclusion, international mission strategies have effectively reached people with the gospel worldwide. As the world continues to change, these strategies that we have moved away from are proving valuable again in America. By using oral methods, small groups, and prioritizing relationships, believers can effectively share the good news of Jesus in an engaging, memorable, and authentic way. As we look to the future, it is clear that these strategies will continue to be essential in reaching people with the message of salvation in America and beyond.
[1] Dr. Jim Slack’s private mentoring session on “Doing the Math”. Percentages are taken from the 2010 US census.
[2] Personal Conversation with Dr. David Garrison on the cell church movement in Asia.