Cross-Cultural Servanthood : Serving the World in Christlike Humility

Duane Elmer asked people around the world how they felt about Western missionaries. The response? "Missionaries could be more effective if they did not think they were better than us." The last thing we want to do in cross-cultural ministry is to offend people in other cultures. Unfortunately, all too often and even though we don't mean it, our actions communicate superiority, paternalism, imperialism and arrogance. Our best intentions become unintentional insults. How can we minister in ways that are received as true Christlike service? Cross-cultural specialist Duane Elmer gives Christians practical advice for serving other cultures with sensitivity and humility. With careful biblical exposition and keen cross-cultural awareness, he shows how our actions and attitudes often contradict and offend the local culture. He offers principles and guidance for avoiding misunderstandings and building relationships in ways that honor others. Here is culturally-savvy insight into how we can follow Jesus' steps to become global servants. Whether you're going on your first short-term mission trip or ministering overseas for extended periods, this useful guide is essential reading for anyone who wants to serve effectively in international settings with grace and sensitivity. - Publisher. Part I: Servanthood : basic perspectives. Servanthood : its burden and challenge Servanthood : choosing the towel or the robe Humility : posture of the servant Part II: Servanthood : the process. Openness : welcoming others into your presence Acceptance : communicating respect for others Trust : building confidence in relationships Learning : seeking information that changes you Learning : biblical foundations for change Understanding : seeing through the other's eyes Serving : becoming like Christ to others Part III: Servanthood : the challenges. The servant and leadership The servant and power The servant and mystery The servant model : Joseph "Cross-cultural specialist Duane Elmer gives Christians practical guidance for serving internationally with sensitivity and humility. With careful biblical exposition and keen cross-cultural awareness, he shows how our actions and attitudes often contradict and offend local cultures and sensibilities. He offers principles and guidance for avoiding misunderstandings and building relationships in ways that honor host cultures."--Jacket With careful biblical exposition and keen cross-cultural awareness, Duane Elmer offers principles and guidance for avoiding misunderstandings and building relationships in ways that honor people in other cultures.