Cross-cultural servanthood : serving the world in christlike humility / by Duane H. Elmer.

Format:

Book

Author/Creator:

Elmer, Duane, 1943-

Language:

English

Subjects (All):

Jesus Christ--Servanthood.

Jesus Christ.

Service (Theology).

Intercultural communication--Religious aspects--Christianity.

Intercultural communication.

Physical Description:

1 online resource (214 p.)

Edition:

1st ed.

Place of Publication:

Downers Grove, Illinois : InterVarsity Press, [2006]

Language Note:

English

Summary:

“Missionaries could more effectively minister if they did not think they were so superior to us.” The last thing we want to do in cross-cultural ministry is to offend people in our host cultures. Unfortunately, all too often our actions inadvertently communicate superiority, paternalism, imperialism and arrogance. How can we minister in ways that are received as true Christlike service? Cross-cultural specialist Dwayne 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 cultural sensibilities. He offers principles and guidance for avoiding misunderstandings and building relationships in ways that honor host cultures. 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.

Contents:

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.

Notes:

Description based upon print version of record.

Includes bibliographical references.

Description based on publisher supplied metadata and other sources.

ISBN:

9780830874835

0830874836

OCLC:

904733675