Sixteen:Fifteen Unleashed Blog

How to Build Mission Momentum in your Church

noreply@blogger.com (Sixteen:Fifteen) — Tue, 29 Nov 2011 23:24:00 +0000

by: Matthew Ellison, President Sixteen:Fifteen

7 Questions for Church Leaders to Help Evaluate Effectiveness in Mission:

Communing – Have we sought and heard God’s heart for our involvement in fulfilling the Great Commission?

Consensus – Does our leadership share a unified passion to extend the gospel of Jesus Christ to those outside of its reach?

Cost – Do we have a God-centered motive strong enough to engage the sacrificial commitment of our people and resources?

Champion – Has God raised up a torchbearer who will champion this cause among us?

Calling – Have we focused informed attention on the area of the world God is calling us to reach?

Connection – Are we working with like-minded agencies and field partners to maximize our time, talents, and treasures?

Commitment – Are we prepared to accept responsibility for taking the resurrected Christ’s words as our mission?

An Interview with John Moore: Principle of John Moore and Associates, An Independent Registered Investment Advisor.

noreply@blogger.com (Sixteen:Fifteen) — Tue, 18 Oct 2011 18:01:00 +0000

Often when we give feedback on ministry impact we focus on the peoples that are being reached by the churches we have and are coaching, and of course, these are the stories that grip our hearts. But we'd like to change gears a little bit in this edition of mini Unleashed by highlighting a very special ministry partner, John Moore, whose prayers and contributions are making it possible for us to fulfill our mission of mobilizing churches across North America to make disciples of all nations.

On 11-11-11 John will be co-teaching Sixteen:Fifteen's free webinar, "When Missions Vision Is Bigger Than Missions Budget." For more information and to find out how you can participate click here.

Matthew Ellison: John, first of all, thank you for your partnership in the Gospel. With every remembrance of you, we thank God and pray for His continued blessing upon you. It's because of visionary ministry partners like you that we are empowered to carry out our mission. Thank you!

Now, I realize that it is unlikely that you will travel to the mission field to work among the Fra Fra people (which are highlighted in this edition of EUnleashed) or the Tarahumara, or the Wolof, or the Punjabi Sikhs, or any of the other groups that are being engaged by the churches Sixteen:Fifteen has and is mobilizing by coaching, and yet it is partnerships with people like you that makes it possible for Sixteen:Fifteen to coach churches, who in turn are reaching marginalized and forgotten peoples --- can you share what this means to you personally?

John Moore: Kingdom Impact is what it's all about. Inspired vision leads to great leverage for churches. The 16:15 coaching process helps churches translate their God-given calling into focused global impact. Connie and I really support the idea that multiple churches are reaching multiple uupg (un-engaged, un-reached people groups) because of the impact of the 16:15 coaching process.

Matthew Ellison: Our coaching process helps churches move from a shotgun approach to doing missions to being strategically driven; it helps them forge a clear, concise, compelling mission vision that can capture people's hearts, minds and imaginations --- And that is exactly what is happening. It is not uncommon for churches that have gone through our missions coaching process to see a 300 - 400% increase in annual missions giving, can you comment on such an increase?

John Moore: I mentioned the idea of inspired vision earlier. We believe a company with inspired vision is the type of opportunity that attracts investors. I believe Apple Computer is a great example of this. Products like the iPad are remarkable and have dramatically changed the way people do things. When the Holy Spirit fills a church with inspired vision, people respond to that sort of Kingdom oriented opportunity, much the same way investors have responded to a company like Apple. This allows the Holy Spirit to inspire remarkable generosity in the church and changes the way people think of giving...a clear missions vision enables people to visualize the investment opportunity with more clarity. The additional clarity leads to unleashed generosity.

Matthew Ellison: We have talked about it a lot, but for the sake of the readers, what do you do you think are some of the specifics behind the annual increase in missions giving in churches that have been coached by Sixteen:Fifteen? In your opinion what exactly is it that is unleashing such amazing generosity?

John Moore: I have been researching the Biblical examples of congegational generosity. I call them the stories of the "Fully Funded Church." So far, I have found four Biblical examples of The Fully Funded Church. In every case, the leaders of the congregation were also the leaders in generosity. An inspired vision enables church leaders to clearly see the vision, and this allows the leadership to enthusiastically communicate that vision to the congregation. The leaders enthusiasm allows them to be generous supporter of the vision and their generosity is contagious. Generosity begets generosity and assets are released for Kingdom Impact.

Matthew Ellison: Speak to the donor that is having a hard time connecting to the vision of Sixteen:Fifteen because Sixteen:Fifteen is one step removed from the mission field ---What is the value of giving to a ministry like ours that doesn't go to the frontlines, so to speak, but actually encourages, enables and empowers churches to finish the task?

John Moore: Connie and I believe 16:15 offers great leverage for the giver. So far God has not called us to be feet on the ground reaching out in person to uupg (unengaged, unreached people groups). Our support of 16:15 helps put many hands and feet on the ground reaching these people groups by enabling churches to clarify their focus and expand their global impact by coming to an inspired vision through the 16:15 coaching process.

Matthew Ellison: Leave us with some encouragement about one of your favorite topics, namely, the joy that accompanies the giving of time, talent, and treasure for the sake of Gods name and renown.

John Moore: We always add a fourth and fifth "T" to conversations about giving. In addition to the three "T's" you mentioned, we believe our stewardship responsibilites include: Thanks and Truth. The joy of knowing that Truth is being taught by an investment of Time and Talent that was enabled by giving of Treasure causes an outpouring of Thanks to God. Holy Sprit inspired vision drives the stewardship of these five "T's" more effectively.

Sixteen: Fifteen would like to thank John Moore for taking time out of his extremely busy schedule to be interviewed.

The Power of an Unleashed Church: An Update on the Fra Fra people of Ghana, West Africa - "Thank you!"

noreply@blogger.com (Sixteen:Fifteen) — Tue, 27 Sep 2011 19:29:00 +0000

The Fra Fra people who number over half a million, got their unique name from interactions with the very first missionaries who lived among them. Each time the missionaries visited a compound and were leaving, the people always said "frafra" meaning 'thank you' or 'well done'. Therefore, the missionaries started calling them 'the Fra Fra people'. The natives did not take offense or protest to being called the Fra Fra people, so the name stuck.

The Fra Fra people of Ghana, West Africa, like all people groups, were rapt in Christ's thoughts as He poured out His blood on the cross. The writer of Hebrews tells us, "He endured the cross, despising the shame for the joy that was set before Him" (Hebrews 12:2). What exactly was that future joy that motivated Jesus to offer up such an immeasurable sacrifice? It was the ingathering of worshipers from all nations, tribes, and tongues who would spend all eternity enjoying His love with a never-ending, ever-increasing joy (Revelation 7:9-11). The thought of redeemed people groups made righteous by His blood, overflowing with love for and joy in His Father's glory has forever captivated Jesus. Almost ten years ago the leadership of a local church in Grass Valley, California became gripped by this very same thought. It was during this time that Sixteen:Fifteen began working alongside Crossroads Church, coaching them into a strategic mission focus and helping them launch a church-wide initiative to make Christ known among the Fra Fra...

This summer I had the privilege of returning to Crossroads to do some teaching and witnessed firsthand the power of a church mobilized through missions coaching. The vision that God forged out of the coaching process was not only alive and well, it was growing and expanding. One milestone accomplishment was the formation of a Christian leaders and pastors training institute, that in the last 3 years, has graduated 150 Fra Fra --- some of these graduates have gone on to plant new churches in the mostly unreached northern part of Ghana.

Executive Pastor Ed Lech explained to the congregation, as PowerPoint slides of new churches and pastors gatherings flashed across the screen, "We are aware of at least 10 new church plants, there may be more...in this slide we are presenting a new motorcycle to one of the pastors as a means for itinerate minister to reach hard to access places."

And this only the beginning of what God is doing in and through Crossroads Church and keep in mind that this is only one church that has been mobilized through church missions coaching...

Several years ago one of our board members wisely said that only time will tell if the coaching process produces lasting transformation. Well, this year I have intentionally spent time with many churches we have coached helping them tune up their visions if necessary. What I witnessed humbled me --- over and over I saw year on year vision growth as well as year on year increases in giving. Most importantly, I saw the miracle of new birth and disciple making taking place among the people and places where these churches have focused their missions' efforts.

So, once again, thank you, thank you, thank you for standing fast in prayer and support of the mission of Sixteen:Fifteen, or should I say "frafa?"

Til' All Have Heard,

Matthew Ellison

President, Sixteen: Fifteen

The Power of an Unleashed Church - At Home, Across the Border, and Around the World!

noreply@blogger.com (Sixteen:Fifteen) — Tue, 31 May 2011 22:41:00 +0000

by: Michael O'Halloran

At Home (Clovis, California) Across the Border (West Central Mexico), and
Around the World (Northern India)

We are excited to share with you some great news we recently received from Northside Christian Church, a church located in Clovis, California (suburb of Fresno) that we coached last year. To refresh your memory, Matthew Ellison wrote a blog detailing the alarming statistics about the Circle of Silence in West Central Mexico. It is reported that less than 2% are born again Christians, and the work in this area is extremely difficult-hardened soil (hearts) by the deceitfulness of sin and the lack of "Sonshine" for countless decades.

But God, who is rich in mercy, abounding in love, and faithful to His promise, by the mighty working of the Holy Spirit, began a work in this region! The light of God's Son is breaking the hardened soil (heart). It was reported by Northside Christian Church that 15 individuals from one of these marginalized people groups in the Circle of Silence (for security reasons the name is not mentioned) came to saving faith in the finished work of Jesus Christ-Praise God!

Please know that as a partner with Sixteen: Fifteen, you played a significant role in the advancement of the gospel in West Central Mexico-thank you! Your sacrificial gifts and faithful prayers have enabled Sixteen:Fifteen to unleash the missions potential of Northside Christian Church. As a result of the missions coaching process, they became focused on declaring Christ: at home, across the border, and around the world.

Not only is Northside Christian Church committed to spreading the gospel in the Circle of Silence, they are also working in Northern India among the Punjabi Sikh's. And after researching an effective strategy for evangelism and outreach, it was discovered that many Punjabi Sikh's live in the Fresno Valley. Northside began to reach out with the gospel to those living in the shadow of their own church. As a result of their focused and passionate outreach, they have seen many attend one of their weekend services.

Furthermore, many congregants are seeking to establish relationships, in order to understand the practical needs of the Sikh's, as many are poor and lack the social and economic skills to get along in the community. In fact, prior to their outreach programs, many in the church viewed the Sikh's as a nuisance and burden to their community, however, now they are seen through the eyes of God as precious and in need of the gospel of Jesus Christ.

I am confident that many of you will not visit this portion of the word or the Fresno Valley, not for the lack of passion but for the lack of time and personal calling by our risen King. However, you played a major role in this exciting news and your generosity and faithfulness in prayer has been joined with those around the country to make an eternal impact in a portion of the world that desperately needs the Good News of Jesus Christ, the power of God unto salvation.

Sixteen: Fifteen understands the power of partnership (it is one of our core values), and we know without a shadow of doubt that your partnership was key in unlocking Northside Christian Church to reach the nations: at home, across the border, and around the world. We are humbled and honored by your partnership in the gospel of Jesus Christ, so it is with joy and gratitude that we say a big thank you!

A Closing Word about Supporting the Ministry of Sixteen:Fifteen.

As we turn our calendars to the summer months, we see our crazy-busy, yet relaxing and exciting vacation plans: trips to the beach, weekends at the lake, camping trips, fishing by our favorite stream, road trip to see grandma and grandpa, full-filled days riding roller coasters and eating junk food, or simply a stack of unread book that we can't wait to enjoy while sitting next to the pool or lying in the hammock.

Sixteen:Fifteen would humbly but boldly ask that you prayerfully consider standing with us financially this summer. It is typically during the summer months that we see and feel the most financial pressures. Therefore, your gift, large or small, during the summer can allow us the opportunity to coach more churches like Northside Community Church, and by God's mighty power, we can report to you more exciting stories from the mission field. We are extremely grateful for your generous support! May God's richest blessing be upon you, your loved ones, your work at home, in your communities, and in the marketplace.

Our Treasure

noreply@blogger.com (Sixteen:Fifteen) — Wed, 18 May 2011 19:36:00 +0000

by: Rebecca Tarantino, Intern at Sixteen: Fifteen

When I hear the word “treasure”, I think of pirates, hidden treasure chests, and gold. The real meaning of the word “treasure” is a thing or person that is highly prized or valued. What do you value most? Who/what is your treasure?

In John Piper’s book Don’t Waste Your Life, he explains how to avoid a wasted life. Overall, this book was very eye opening. Through repetition and rhetorical questions, John Piper makes his readers think and reflect on their own lives. I recommend everyone to read this book. My favorite part was the chapter about magnifying Christ in our pain and death. Before I read this chapter, I had no idea what it meant to glorify Christ in death. Through this book, God opened my eyes to what this meant. In this chapter, John Piper took Philippians 1:20-26 verse by verse and explained it in detail. In this passage, Paul gives his life’s goal – to magnify Christ in his life and death. So how do we glorify Christ in death? John Piper gives the perfect answer in his book. “Death makes visible where our treasure is. The way we die reveals the worth of Christ in our hearts. Christ is magnified in my death when I am satisfied with him in my dying – when I experience death as a gain because I gain him.” John Piper later explains that we have to learn how to glorify Christ in our death before we can glorify Him in our life. Paul risked his life to make Christ known, because he was satisfied with dying. He valued God over his life on earth. What do you value? Search your heart. Is God your treasure?

A Wasted Life

noreply@blogger.com (Sixteen:Fifteen) — Tue, 10 May 2011 20:42:00 +0000

by: Rebecca Tarantino, Intern at Sixteen: Fifteen

What does it mean to waste your life? Does it mean not living life to the fullest? Does it mean not meeting your full potential? Is it based on how you spent your time? Did you live it up or throw it away? What does a wasted life look like?

A question that most people have asked is this: what is the purpose in life? Many great thinkers have spent their whole lives trying to figure out if life has any meaning. For a Christian, this should be easy to answer: live a life holy and pleasing to God, glorifying Him in everything you do. However, like many statements in life, it is easier said than done. Some may not know what that means – to glorify God. As John Piper said in his book Don’t Waste Your Life, “[Glorify] it is more like the word magnify…you make something unimaginably great look like what it really is.” We cannot fathom how great God is, but we can “magnify” Him to make Him look as great as He really is. Everything we do should glorify God. 1 Corinthians 10:31 says, “So whether you eat or drink or whatever you do, do it all for the glory of God.” So what does a wasted life look like? It is a life that does not live by this purpose.

HELL-BENT: Hell and Christ’s Global Missions Mandate

noreply@blogger.com (Sixteen:Fifteen) — Thu, 05 May 2011 20:41:00 +0000

by Matthew Ellison

IS HELL REAL? This question has been debated in the Christian church for over two millennia. The recent release of Rob Bell’s book entitled, “Love Wins,” and the subsequent barrage of commentary about the topic have again surfaced the debate in force. Bell thinks he knows---or should I say, he thinks we can’t know for certain, because he believes that the Biblical discussion of salvation is contradictory. This has incited many Evangelicals to contend in the public arena that Jesus Christ is man’s only hope and that the eternal punishment for not believing in Him is conscious, eternal, terrifying torment. I thank God for those who have taken this stand, it is my stand, and more importantly it is the historical Biblical stand. I must confess however, that this debate has caused serious consternation in my heart, not over whether or not hell is real, but rather why so many Evangelicals who claim to believe in hell and even voraciously defend the doctrine seem to pay so little attention to the unreached people groups sitting in darkness and the shadow of death. John Piper (who, by the way, is a champion for God’s missionary enterprise) in his must read book, “Let the Nations Be Glad,” poses three questions and then answers them Biblically:

1. Will anyone experience eternal and conscious torment under God’s wrath?
2. Is the work of Christ the necessary means provided by God for eternal salvation?
3. Is it necessary for people to hear of Christ in order to be eternally saved?

He writes, “Biblical answers to these questions are crucial because in each case a negative answer would seem to cut a nerve of urgency in the missionary cause.” Then in usual Piper style he unpacks biblical passage after biblical passage, relying on Scripture’s intrinsic authority to tell us yet again that the answer to all three of three questions is yes.

Of course he is right; a negative answer to any of these questions would cut a nerve of urgency in the missionary cause. But when one considers that today there are still 6,000 unreached people groups around the world representing 2 billion souls among whom Christ is unknown, unacknowledged and unadorned it is quite easy to conclude that Evangelicals possess little if any nerve of urgency for God’s missionary cause. When one considers that there are at least 600 evangelical churches for every 1 of the 6,000 unreached people groups it is quite easy to conclude that Evangelicals possess little if any nerve of urgency for God’s missionary cause. When one considers that $1 out of every $100,000 in global church income goes to support missions among the world’s unevangelized, unreached peoples it is quite easy to conclude that Evangelicals possess little if any nerve of urgency for God’s missionary cause. When one considers that all of the resources needed to send and support an army of Christ-centered and joy-spreading ambassadors to the nations is already in the church but we are not giving them, it is quite easy to conclude that Evangelicals possess little if any nerve of urgency for God’s missionary cause. Our lack of commitment to Christ’s great commission marching orders to make disciples of all the nations indeed begs the question, do we really believe in the reality and the eternality of hell? The evidence seems to say that we don’t. And if we do then something is horribly wrong, for our doctrine is not being demonstrated in our demeanor.

A tale is often told of a preacher who said that if there really was an eternal hell, he would crawl on his hands and knees along broken glass the entire length of Britain to rescue a single sinner from such a fate. It makes sense. If men are truly bent towards hell by nature, if Christ is their only hope of escaping eternal, conscious torment, then one would think that Evangelicals would be hell-bent on participating in the completion of history’s greatest movement, namely the ingathering of the elect from all tribes and languages and peoples and nations’ until the full number of the Gentiles comes in and all Israel is saved.

God has often used something Francis Schaeffer once said to graciously afflict me; I hope it does the same for you, “Biblical orthodoxy without compassion is surely the ugliest thing in the world.” Do you believe in the Biblical doctrine of hell? If so, what the hell are you doing about it?

A King and His Kingdom!

noreply@blogger.com (Sixteen:Fifteen) — Thu, 07 Apr 2011 15:21:00 +0000

by Michael O'Halloran

The gospel reaches beyond geopolitical boundaries, international boarders, and racial bigotry. For it declares that Jesus and His Kingdom are sovereign and rule over the affairs of heaven and earth, both in this world and the world to come—for Christ’s Kingdom has no end! Christ absorbed God’s wrath for sinners and defeated death, as witnessed by His suffering and death on the cross, and completely by His resurrection from the grave. Moreover, we see Jesus seated in heaven at the Father’s side, and we have received the promised Holy Spirit as a guarantee of our citizenship into this eternal Kingdom.

Fact: Nearly 2,000,000,000 (27.9% of the worlds population) people live outside the echo of this good new found in the person and work of Jesus Christ.

Now, as citizens of an eternal Kingdom, why do we neglect the call and privilege to go into the entire world and proclaim the Good News of Jesus Christ? The answer is simple, yet very complex: we love our comfortable American lives more than the evidence of the empty tomb. Yes, the empty tomb speaks comfort to our weary souls that our sins are forgiven. As a result, we are justified before a Holy God. But it also speaks to us, as followers, lovers, and citizens of this eternal Kingdom that we are not bound by the fear of death. The resurrection of Jesus from the dead assures us that we will not be held captive by death’s grip, but we will pass from this temporal life into our eternal resurrected bodies, so we shall rule and reign with Christ in His eternal Kingdom!

The gospel message is simple: Jesus died for sinners. Jesus rose from the grave to save sinners, sinners from every tongue, tribe, nation, and people. The gospel of Jesus reached into our own lives, and the lives of our loved ones, and into the lives of our communities. But it doesn’t stop there. It also reached to the ends of earth. Shall we allow the fear of death and the love of temporal and fleeting possessions to hinder us from telling others that live in remote, dark, isolated, and scary places about the good news of Jesus and His eternal Kingdom? Allow the work of Christ, as inspired by the Holy Spirit to speak a word to you about the fear of death:

14 Since therefore the children share in flesh and blood, he himself likewise partook of the same things, that through death he might destroy the one who has the power of death, that is, the devil, 15 and deliver all those who through fear of death were subject to lifelong slavery. 16 For surely it is not angels that he helps, but he helps the offspring of Abraham. 17 Therefore he had to be made like his brothers in every respect, so that he might become a merciful and faithful high priest in the service of God, to make propitiation for the sins of the people. 18 For because he himself has suffered when tempted, he is able to help those who are being tempted (Hebrews 2:14-18).

I would like to encourage us with a brief reflection on the final promise that Jesus gave to His 11 Disciples after he defeated sin and death: “And behold, I am with you always, to the end of the age” (Matthew 28:20b). By laying aside the weights of comfort, materialism, and self-preservation, we advance the good news of the Kingdom to all living creatures, and in going, praying and sending, we are comforted with and promised the very presence of our risen savior!

Being actively involved in spreading the good news of the Kingdom of God calls for self-denial. Perhaps, the denial of purchasing that weekend convertible, or taking that additional vacation, joining that second country club, buying that additional cup of designer coffee, or renovating and expanding your home, so that those monies can be given to support those who have been called to be the front line soldiers of peace. Or perhaps, rising a few minutes earlier and turning off the TV at night to pray for those that are giving and going in the name of our King.

We, as those who have been rescued by God’s Holy Spirit, are to go to all nations willingly, we are to give our money generously, and we are to pray fervently, not to earn God’s favor, but we do these things freely because we have received citizenship into the Kingdom of God by grace alone, through faith alone, in Christ alone, for it is God who works in us both to will and to do according to His good pleasure.

Finally, the Kingdom of God is advanced by preaching peace with God through the person and redemptive work of Christ upon the cross! This work was accomplished in His life, death, and resurrection from the dead.

14 How then will they call on him in whom they have not believed? And how are they to believe in him of whom they have never heard? And how are they to hear without someone preaching? 15 And how are they to preach unless they are sent? As it is written, “How beautiful are the feet of those who preach the good news!” 16 But they have not all obeyed the gospel. For Isaiah says, “Lord, who has believed what he has heard from us?” 17 So faith comes from hearing, and hearing through the word of Christ (Romans 10:14-17).

Let me share a quote that might shed some light upon this subject of the Great Commission:

"If you want to build a ship, don't drum up the men to gather wood, and divide the work, and give orders. Instead, teach them to yearn for the vast and endless sea."

The vast and endless sea is Christ, and the closer we are drawn to Him by the Holy Spirit working through the power of the gospel, the more we see the risen and eternal King and His Kingdom. This vision of truth will create in us a desire to see Christ’s glory spread to the ends of the earth. In Christ, God was reconciling a people for Himself from every tongue, tribe, people, and nation.

World evangelism (missions) is not primarily a prescription problem—for we have thousands of papers, conferences, and classes detailing strategy and how to contextualize without being offensive—it is primarily a proclamation problem. For our preaching and teaching must continually be pointing towards Christ and His redemptive work—the vast and endless sea—and in doing so we, the Church, will build a vessel of divine love, mercy, and grace that sails to the four ends of the earth.

An Eternal Investment

noreply@blogger.com (Sixteen:Fifteen) — Fri, 11 Mar 2011 21:14:00 +0000

When a financial investor is researching where to place his or her money, one of the primary things looked for is the return on investment or ROI. And, one of the top questions is: what return I’m I going to receive on my money? The formula to find ROI is: your gain from investment minus (-) the cost of investment divided (÷) by the cost of investment. I know this is elementary for you, but I wanted to remind you of this simple, yet helpful investment tool before you continue to read this post.

I am sure you are wondering why I am blogging about ROI on a non-profit missions website. Well, to be honest, I am trying to get you to understand our ministry and how we think and operate. We coach individual local churches to have a more focused, engaging, and strategic vision to engage those outside the current reach of the gospel of Jesus Christ. And in doing this, we come alongside the leadership of a local church to transform the church from a supportive role in world missions to an active role in going to all nations.

I just heard a testimony from a man on the missions council, who also teaches a Sunday school class in a church we coached a few years ago. I wanted to share this with you, and it has to do with ROI. His Sunday school class would take up an offering once a month for different missions projects or individual missionaries. This class would struggle to raise $100 per offering. The plate would be passed and it would come back with $50, and whoever was expressing the need would match the $50. They struggled and pleaded for a total of $1200 per year.

Now a few years later, after the church went from a supportive role in world missions to an active role, things are much different in this Sunday school class and throughout the entire congregation. A few important items to get you up to speed: 1) this church’s missions vision was to respond to a plethora of requests for money; 2) no one in the church had a clue who or what was supported and where the work was taking place; 3) each Sunday school class was, in effect, their own missions department; 4) after the coaching process, the church strategically focused their foreign missions efforts on two key areas of the world, and for security reasons I will keep them anonymous.

Ok, now with a little background, you are ready for the rest of the story. This one Sunday school class (I am told this church has over 50 Sunday school classes) has received over $37,000 in 24 months. The reason for this huge increase is simple: a focused, engaging, and strategic vision to reach two counties that live outside the reach of the gospel of Jesus Christ. Remember, this is just one Sunday school class out of 50 and doesn’t include the monies from the general fund and any monies raised by the youth department.

ROI: $37,000 (gain from investment) - $12,000 (estimated cost to coach a church – cost of investment) = $25,000. Divide (÷) the $25,000 by $12,000 = 2.0833 or a 208.3% return of investment. This is ROI from one Sunday school class.

Now this is good news and is worthy of great praise to God! This blog post is focused on the financial component of church missions coaching; something we can capture on paper and track. But imagine for a moment the lives that are being changed with this money. Hungry, abandoned, and naked children are being fed, clothed, and loved. Clean water is now flowing when just a few months before there was only polluted and disease-infested water to drink. And most importantly, the life-changing message of Jesus Christ is being spread to those in spiritual darkness.

Sixteen: Fifteen believes in the power of Jesus Christ flowing through His church; therefore, we exist to assist local churches by moving them from a supportive role in world missions to an active role in spreading the hope found in the good news of Jesus Christ. Please consider investing in our ministry by praying for us, and also by standing with us financially. We cannot promise you an earthly return of investment, but we can encourage you to consider your eternal return on investment:

And they sang a new song, saying,

“Worthy are you to take the scroll, and to open its seals, for you were slain, and by your blood you ransomed people for God from every tribe and language and people and nation, and you have made them a kingdom and priests to our God, and they shall reign on the earth.”

Then I looked, and I heard around the throne and the living creatures and the elders the voice of many angels, numbering myriads of myriads and thousands of thousands, saying with a loud voice, “Worthy is the Lamb who was slain, to receive power and wealth and wisdom and might and honor and glory and blessing!” And I heard every creature in heaven and on earth and under the earth and in the sea, and all that is in them, saying, “To him who sits on the throne and to the Lamb be blessing and honor and glory and might forever and ever!” And the four living creatures said, “Amen!” and the elders fell down and worshiped. Revelation 5: 9-14

This scene is awesome, redeemed saints from every tribe, language, people, and nations around the throne of God worshipping and giving praise to Jesus for His wonderful work of redemption. I cannot think of anything more excellent to invest in than global world missions—it is a return on investment that will last throughout all eternity!

Thanks for Your Support

noreply@blogger.com (Sixteen:Fifteen) — Mon, 17 Jan 2011 18:24:00 +0000

As the first weeks of the New Year comes to a close, it is with great joy and grateful hearts that we write you this letter. Sixteen:Fifteen is extremely thankful for your generous support in 2010, and we know that without your faithful prayers and generous financial support we would not have been able to continue through this tough economic year. Your generosity was used by God to encourage and sustain us, as we work towards mobilizing Christ's Church to spread the life-changing gospel of Jesus Christ to a world that sits in darkness-thank you!

Only heaven will fully reveal the impact of your partnership. This PDF will give you a snapshot of a church that completed our coaching process in 2010. Prior to the coaching process, the church's global missions ministry was sporadic, isolated, and impersonal to most congregants at Northside Christian. But now this church has a clear, compelling, and strategic global missions vision in place; therefore, God is capturing their hearts, minds, hands, and imaginations. As a result, missions' giving is significantly increasing and because this vision is incorporated into the whole congregation, the giving and going will be year upon year.

Most importantly, the glory of God and the light of Christ are being spread throughout Northside Christian Church, the greater Fresno Valley, Vancouver, BC, and Punjab, India. Your partnership has been used by God to make this a reality. This is just a glimpse into the impact of your sacrificial and generous support in 2010. We have seen this transformation several times this past year, and we wanted to share just one of the testimonies from a church we were honored to serve.

We as a ministry want to take this time to pray for you, your family, and loved ones. As you are fully aware, a new year brings both blessing and hardship, joy and sorrow, triumph and tragedy, so it is our honor and privilege to come before our heavenly Father on your behalf:

Our gracious and loving God, we come before you this day in the name of your son, Jesus Christ, our great high priest. We confess that it is by His sacrifice on the cross of Calvary that we have access to you by faith. We also confess our need for you every moment of every day, so we ask that you, by your Holy Spirit would remind us afresh of your unlimited mercy and abounding grace towards us in Christ, and that we would give Jesus all the praise for our salvation. We ask that you would remind us of all the blessings that are found in your gospel, and that the gospel would be our strength in both the hour of victory and the hour of trial, sickness and health, life and in death. Also, we pray that you would bless our precious partners this day with your peace, a peace that surpasses all human understanding, and this peace would be a testimony to your love, care, protection, and blessing for those who are your children by faith in Jesus Christ. May you cause your face to shine upon them and grant them your presence by the Holy Spirit. Finally, we pray that you would bless the work of their hands, for the praise of your glory throughout the entire world. We thank you, our merciful and awesome God for our precious partners, that you have given us this past year, so we ask that you would bless and comfort them for your name sake. It is in the matchless name of Jesus Christ that we pray, Amen!

In closing, know that we give thanks to God at every remembrance of you! It is our deepest desire and prayer that you have a blessed and prosperous new year. Also, we gather once a week as a staff to pray, so please do not hesitate to call, email, or write to us your requests, so that we can partner with you in prayer.

Eternally Grateful,

Matthew Ellison, Michael O'Halloran, and Tom Padilla

Light into Darkness

noreply@blogger.com (Sixteen:Fifteen) — Tue, 07 Dec 2010 23:08:00 +0000

Light into Darkness

By Michael O'Halloran

John 8:12: Again Jesus spoke to them, saying, "I am the light of the world. Whoever follows me will not walk in darkness, but will have the light of life."

“Hot, humid, sticky, salty, and tired” were the words that flowed from the lips of those that traveled to Mombasa, Kenya on October 25, 2010. The purpose of the trip was to “scout out the land” and see how a church could effectively reach a Muslim tribe in East Africa with the gospel of Jesus Christ. This tribe, the first to convert to Islam, lives along the Indian Ocean, flush with palm trees, white sand, coral rock, and plenty of sunshine.

After a few short days of meetings, the words quickly changed as they learned of the inhumane practices of this tribe, especially towards their young girls. “Horrid, appalling, morbid, unspeakable and demonic” were the words that now flowed from their lips. The beautiful landscape quickly vanished when the stark relativities of the darkness—spiritual darkness sank deep into their hearts.

However, the Bible speaks that everyone that does not know Christ sits in darkness, those who practice unspeakable atrocities and those who practice self-righteous actions—for all have sinned and fallen short of the glory of God. The ancient prophet Isaiah spoke of a people who walked in darkness but have seen a great light (Isaiah 9:2). The New Testament is quick to reveal that Jesus is this light, and those who by faith receive Him no longer walk in darkness. They have their sins forgiven, and are clothed in the very righteousness of Christ.

Today the Digo tribe, though once lost and walking in darkness now have the light of Christ being revealed to them by God through a local church in Albuquerque, New Mexico. The sacred Scriptures are clear: that declaring the life, death, and resurrection of Jesus Christ—the light and hope of the world—brings salvation!

How did this church decide to reach this tribe in East Africa? Well, to be honest, the Holy Spirit spoke to the leadership of this church. The church had a God-given desire to be focused, intentional, and strategic in their missions’ vision, but did not have a clue where to begin. This is where sixteen: fifteen came into the picture.

Sixteen: fifteen had the privilege of taking this church through the 3D Missions Coaching Process. The coaching process allowed the church to see the big picture of world missions, yet, not so big they count not finds their place to advance the cause of Christ. The coaching experience is not a one-size-fits-all approach to completing the Great Commission. However, it is a customized process that is tailored to the unique makeup of each local church. Nor is it a vision of a few people that over time will vanish, but it is a church-wide vision that can stand the test of time.

Stop and think for a moment, a Muslim tribe once sitting in darkness, without God and without hope, now has the resources and talents of a local church (Christ’s Body) and the right in-field partners (Missions Agencies) focused and committed long-term towards reaching their needs, both spiritual and physical. It is not a work of a few, but it is the work of the entire church. Will you join us in praying for the Digo tribe in Kenya?

Sixteen:fifteen is not the answer; Jesus Christ is the only answer and only hope for this world. Sixteen: fifteen exists to mobilize Christ’s Church to reach every tongue, tribe, and nations with the love of God—the light of the world.

How Good and Pleasant: Roundtable of Word and Deed

noreply@blogger.com (Sixteen:Fifteen) — Mon, 27 Sep 2010 04:17:00 +0000

By Michael O'Halloran

Psalm 133, “Behold, how good and pleasant it is when brothers dwell in unity! It is like the precious oil on the head, running down on the beard, on the beard of Aaron, running down on the collar of his robes! It is like the dew of Hermon, which falls on the mountains of Zion! For there the LORD has commanded the blessing, life forevermore”.

The need and desire for unity is great, both within the walls of the church and without the walls of the church. In fact, over the centuries there has been several major shifts towards unity within the body of Christ for the sake of blessing, but sadly, some work for unity has been for the sake of human approval. What I mean is that some strive, pray, and dialog for the sake of God’s covenential blessing, found only in Christ. While others strive, discuss, and compromise the essential doctrines of grace for the sake of blessing, not found in Christ’s covenant - to dwell in their midst, but in a covenant of human blessing. When the former is the case, we can rest, trust, and enjoy the blessing of God – a blessing that goes beyond our own comforts, and extends to all those whom the Father will call.

Earlier this month, such an event took place at the beautiful facilities of the Tijeras Foundation in Albuquerque, New Mexico. Matthew Ellison, Sixteen: Fifteen’s president and Virgil Dugan* Tijeras Foundation’s president, co-facilitated a roundtable discussion between several churches and mission agencies, who are working in Central Mexico among the Tarahumara people. Both churches and agencies have been working long and hard in this part of the world for many years, but there has not been a consistent concerted effort.

After much prayer, discussion, and planning there was a deep conviction and strong unity, that God’s holy word – which has been lacking in the Tarahumara native tongue – should and could be translated, printed, and distributed, and that a unified partnership would speed up the work of translation and lessen the cost for each church and agency.

Though these churches and agencies have some differences in non-essential practices and dogmas, it was crystal clear that they were unified in the importance of God’s word, both for evangelism and discipleship. Christ was at the center of this roundtable discussion; therefore, we trust that God will command His blessing on the people of Central Mexico and the Tarahumara would hear His call from the pages of the Bible - in their own language. How pleasant it is when brothers (and sisters) dwell in the unity, for God will bless His people, and His people will be a blessing to those whom God has called.

Though God uses individual ministries, together they not only accomplish more, but they magnify Christ by working together (John 17). Sixteen:Fifteen is the catalyst that is helping to accelerate cooperation among local churches and missions agencies as they work collectively to make disciples of Jesus Christ within the world's hidden and forgotten people groups such as the Tarahumara. In this facilitating role, Sixteen:Fifteen is a ministry that is providing major leverage toward accomplishing the common purpose of the Church.

So, it was important for these co-labors to meet and pray for wisdom, strength, and endurance to continue in the harvest field. Also, to discuss the great things that God is doing in this area and people, but also discuss the challenges and difficulties that face the advancement of the Gospel of Jesus Christ in Central Mexico. Right from the start, the representatives from each church and organization demonstrated humility towards each other, and a love, both for God’s word and the Tarahumara people.

*Sixteen: Fifteen is thankful for the Tijeras Foundation and their generosity in hosting this important roundtable discussion that allowed these wonderful people to share in Christian fellowship.

Mini But Mighty Ecard - SAVE THE DATE!

noreply@blogger.com (Sixteen:Fifteen) — Wed, 15 Sep 2010 22:11:00 +0000

Central Mexico: Piercing the Circle of Silence

noreply@blogger.com (Sixteen:Fifteen) — Tue, 13 Apr 2010 20:53:00 +0000

By Matthew Ellison

It is hard to believe that only a few hours south of the United States, in West Central Mexico, there are six states that are believed to have less than 2% born again Christians. These six states form a circle called the Circle of Silence. Perhaps even more unbelievable are the several indigenous groups within this circle that have no known witnessing churches. I recently accompanied several church and mission leaders from Northside Christian Church in Fresno, a church I have been coaching for the last year, on a scouting trip to investigate opportunities and explore potential partnerships inside the circle. Due to sensitivity issues I cannot name the people group that Northside is being called by God to engage with the gospel. In fact, we learned that several missionaries were recently deported from Mexico because of their work in this very difficult and dangerous region.

As one would expect, our time with field partners revealed that if a church desires to work in this area that they need to be prepared to make significant sacrifices. Moreover, if a lasting work was going to take place among this people group that it must be done by God Himself. Over and over during the trip, Jim Corrao, the executive pastor said to me that he recognized that this work was impossible, but that they as a church were longing to see God use them to do a missions work that they could not pull off with their own resources and strength. This, I believe is a church that has truly counted the cost. They do not have romantic ideas about doing missions. They are fully aware of the realities of doing missions in hard places. One of the values that they forged during the coaching process and are now cultivating is Sacrifice. This is what sacrifice means to Northside Christian: To willingly give of our time, resources, comforts, family, and even life in order to bring God’s glory to the nations.

Northside’s work in this marginalized area of Mexico will be hard, the sacrifices great, the odds seemingly insurmountable, but they know that representatives from the people group they are engaging will worship God and His Son forever in His Kingdom and so they are prepared to hold fast in the days ahead, trusting that the silence will be broken.

To all who stand with us in unleashing churches like Northside through missions coaching, rejoice that another forgotten people has been remembered. Your giving and praying is being used by God to make the impossible, possible.

Book Review: When Charity Destroys Dignity:

noreply@blogger.com (Sixteen:Fifteen) — Thu, 11 Feb 2010 21:22:00 +0000

Overcoming Unhealthy Dependency in the Christian Movement

by Glenn Schwartz

"When Charity Destroys Dignity" by Glenn Schwartz is a thought provoking book about the dangers of well-intentioned charity leading to what the author describes as the dependency syndrome. The author does more than raise the issue of unhealthy dependency but details groups that have overcome this danger and practical ways to overcome it. Each chapter has discussion questions as well as a list of books to read for further insight. One of his chapters is worth its weight in gold entitled "What should wealthy churches do with their money?" Rather than giving to people that fosters ongoing dependency on a western church, one of the suggestions by Schwartz is to "invest missionary funding in the proclamation of the gospel where it hasn't been preached."

The late Ralph Winter gave this ringing endorsement when he wrote, "One of the most powerful factors in the growth of Christianity is the use and misuse of financial resources both local and foreign. Here is a book loaded with down-to-earth practicalities written by an experienced and knowledgeable missiologist. Open to any page and you will be drawn into gripping real-life anecdotes and situations. No one serious about the most persuasive unsolved problems in missions today can possibly do without it."

Reviewed by Barry Lawrence

To see all recomeneded books by 1615 click here.

Book Review: Jerusalem to Irian Jaya

noreply@blogger.com (Sixteen:Fifteen) — Fri, 22 Jan 2010 21:41:00 +0000

From Jerusalem to Irian Jaya: A Biographical History of Christian Missions

From Jerusalem to Irian Jaya helps readers understand the life and role of a missionary through real life examples of missionaries throughout history. We see these men and women as fallible and human in their failures as well as their successes. These great leaders of missions are presented as real people, and not super-saints. This second edition covers all 2,000 years of mission history with a special emphasis on the modern era, including chapters focused on the Muslim world, Third World missions, and a comparison of missions in Korea and Japan. It also contains both a general and an “illustration” index where readers can easily locate particular missionaries, stories, or incidents. New design graphics, photographs, and maps help make this a compelling book.

The late Ralph Winter wrote, “Here is the most exciting book ever written, touching the whole scope of the least understood… effort in the annals of human achievement.” Another missions leader observed, “This is history at its best…it is readable, informative, gripping, and above all honest. The author never covers up the weaknesses or criticisms of the subjects. We see these men and women as fallible and human in their failures as well as their successes.

From Jerusalem to Irian Jaya is as informative and intriguing as it is inspiring—an invaluable resource for missionaries, mission agencies, students, and all who are concerned about the spreading of the gospel throughout the world. It is worth the read and your life will be impacted by those who have gone before us to make the name of Christ known among the nations. A

You can buy this book at our website:
http://www.1615.org/resources/resources/379/

Reviewed by Barry Lawrence

Haiti Relief

noreply@blogger.com (Sixteen:Fifteen) — Fri, 22 Jan 2010 20:13:00 +0000

Haiti still needs your help and your prayers. The devastation and death toll is truly beyond words. Global Refuge International (GRI) is helping to respond to those needs. If you haven't yet given to the relief work in Haiti, please do so at GRI.

Featured Resource: Cat and Dog Theology

noreply@blogger.com (Sixteen:Fifteen) — Mon, 05 Oct 2009 23:14:00 +0000

By Bob Sjogren, President of UnveilinGlory

"Evangelical Humanism," have you ever heard of it? Most people know what "humanism" is-a philosophy where mankind's ideals, needs and thoughts are at the center. Evangelical Humanism says, "The chief end of Christianity is the happiness of man-after he dies." In other words, make sure people don't go to hell.

That's good right? No, not as a primary focus. The primary goal of Christianity is not about man's happiness. It is about God's glory. And Evangelical Humanism puts God's glory in second place...which is a very dangerous placed to have it.

What can result with Evangelical Humanism? Pastors and missionaries can become so focused on the needs of the ones they minister to that their marriage and family takes second place. As one missionary's son said, "I wish I'd been born a Muslim, then my father would have spent more time with me." What can result with putting man's needs first? Divorce. It's happened too many times on the evangelical scene.

This is one of the many concepts found in the book Cat and Dog Theology. Most people look at the book and think, 'Oh, what a cute title" and have no idea that it can foundationally change their life. But don't let the title fool you. This book will challenge your mind in the way you look at life and your relationship with God.

(This book has a study guide which can accompany it for personal study. The material is also in a DVD series titled "Cat and Dog Theology" and is perfect for Bible Study, home groups, house church and personal study. Check it all out at www.unveilinGLORY.com)

Another Website Mentions Sixteen:Fifteen

noreply@blogger.com (Sixteen:Fifteen) — Wed, 09 Sep 2009 22:16:00 +0000

Crossroads Church mentions how Sixteen:Fifteen helped their church reach the Fra-Fra People of North Ghana. At the time, Wycliffe was nearing completion of the Bible into the Fra-Fra language. Crossroads financially supported it's completion. But it didn't stop there!

You can read how Crossroads now has a vision to establish a Bible Training institute of the purpose of training and discipling Christian leaders, and planting churches in Ghana. God is certainly doing something amazing through Crossroads and Sixteen:fifteen is honored to have been a part of it!

Book Review: Boundless Faith by Robert Wuthnow

noreply@blogger.com (Sixteen:Fifteen) — Fri, 24 Jul 2009 23:01:00 +0000

"The situation in which American church members now find themselves is one of unprecedented opportunities for engagement in the experiences of people whose lives are quite different from their own." So says Robert Wuthnow in his new book Boundless Faith; The Global Outreach of American Churches. Wuthnow, a professor of Sociology at Princeton University, takes a scholarly look at the effects of ever-increasing globalization on the American church and its approach to missions. He notes that American churches have already responded in positive ways - with giving to overseas ministries having increased by 50% within the last decade, and numerous members involved in short-term missions trips or other forms of cross-cultural outreach. He also points out that greater exposure to other countries, peoples, and cultures has changed the way the U.S. church goes about setting policies and priorities for missions programs. For example, with a greater knowledge of slavery, religious oppression, and other social justice issues around the world the church is more concerned with a holistic approach to missions which goes beyond evangelism and community relief.In the final chapter, Wuthnow states "The future of American Christianity's engagement with globalization depends on coming to a clearer understanding of its past." I can only agree. With the resources (and with it influence) possessed by the American church, we have a tremendous potential for good. But if we are not careful and sensitive in our approach we can continue to be seen as arrogant and imperialistic.In the end, this book is not for everyone. It is high on research and theory, but rather lacking in practical application. Even so, pastors, missions leaders, and others concerned with the present state of world missions - and the American church's involvement in it - will find value in Wuthnow's analysis and observations.

Reviewed by Jerrid Stelter, Contributing Researcher/Writer

Book Review: Serving as Senders

noreply@blogger.com (Sixteen:Fifteen) — Wed, 22 Jul 2009 22:22:00 +0000

Neal Pirolo, founder and President of Emmaus Road International in the preface to his book Serving as Senders describes the effect of hearing a speaker at an Urbana conference say that for each soldier on the battle field, nine others were backing him up in one way or another. The parallel to spiritual battle was immediately made, and Pirolo was inspired to help missionaries develop the kind of homefront support team they need to survive while serving abroad. Part of the fruit of that inspiration is what may be the most readable and practical (yet quite comprehensive) book available on the role local fellowships can -and must - play in standing with those called to serve the Lord in other cultures.

In the first chapter Pirolo distills much research and theory into a concise explanation of the emotional stress involved in the course of a missionary's career. While this introduction is very brief, it is a great starting point and ought to be considered must-reading for anyone involved in sending missionaries.

Then, by using a series of case studies, Pirolo demonstrates the types of support cross-cultural workers need to stay healthy while on assignment. Helpfully broken up into chapters dealing with moral, logistical, financial, prayer, communication, and re-entry support this book provides practical suggestions how various members of a local church can use their giftings to play an integral part of the missionary support team. As stated earlier, this book is practical and readable. At less than $10 a copy this is without doubt one of the best investment missions-minded Americans can make in helping their local body be more effective as senders.

In the follow-up book The Reentry Team, Pirolo expands upon the theme of supporting missionaries who make the often difficult transition back to their "home" cultures. This book's narrower focus allows the author to go more in depth into this crucial part of missioanry adjustment and to also include chapters on children, furloughs, and they always touchy topic of responding to workers who return home earlier than was expected. I would encourage every missions pastor and leader to study this book. Not only will you greatly benefit but (more importantly) so will the missionaries that you support.

Some Websites We Like

noreply@blogger.com (Sixteen:Fifteen) — Fri, 22 May 2009 16:54:00 +0000

This site highlights the Palaung People of China, Myanmar and Thailand. Good information and some nice photos. Check it out at: http://forgottenpeoples.shutterfly.com/

This site mentions Matthew Ellison, has a book review, Bruchko by Bruce Olson. Check it out here: http://takeyourvitaminz.blogspot.com/2006/10/1615org-bruchko.html

Book Review: Let the Nations be Glad by John Piper

noreply@blogger.com (Sixteen:Fifteen) — Wed, 22 Apr 2009 18:33:00 +0000

This is an excellent book on the ultimate goal of missions by author and teaching pastor Dr. John Piper. Piper clearly demonstrates from the Bible that the ultimate goal for the church is not missions but the worship of God. As he puts it, “Missions exists because worship doesn’t.” So he rightly concludes that worship is ultimately the goal of missions. But more than that, worship of God becomes the fuel for missions. He goes on to persuasively argue that the completion of the missionary task involves seeing worshipers from every unreached people group. He also deals with important topics concerning suffering in missions, prayer as a wartime tool, eternity in hell, and the atonement of Christ and its implication for missions.
Duane Litfin, president of Wheaton College, gives his recommendation for this book: “If I had to choose one book on missions, Let the Nations be Glad would be it. Don’t read it unless you are willing to have your eyes reopened to the highest possible motive for being about the business of reaching the world for Christ.”

Reviewed by Barry Lawrence, Director of Church Coaching

Get Let the Nations Be Glad! 2nd Edition NOW

The 3D Process in Simple Terms

noreply@blogger.com (Sixteen:Fifteen) — Tue, 03 Mar 2009 18:23:00 +0000

Virgil Dugan, President of the Tijeras Foundation, has referred to Sixteen:Fifteen as being like a house key. The key may seem small and insignificant by itself, but when used as intended it opens the door to all the valuable items in the home. He says that, in the same way, we are small but can unlock the valuable missions' potential within local churches.

I think that pretty well sums up the 3D process. By allowing us to serve them, local churches often have a better understanding of the Great Commission potential that exists within their own body. When church leaders set aside the time to craft, commit to, and articulate a missions' vision and focus to their congregation, they begin to unleash thepotential that often lies latent within their churches.

Feeling that they are working together toward a common cause, people are inspired to care, to pray, and to give. They find creative ways to use their spiritual and vocational talents to contribute to reaching a people group or region.

Time and again, our partner churches experience wider (and deeper) church involvement in global missions, an increase in Great Commission giving, and an overall greater impact in their endeavors.

While the 3D process is not "rocket science", it is a unique opportunity for your church to have experienced outsiders assist you in evaluating your current missions' activities, and then help you formulate a plan for the future.

If your church has benefited from the 3D process, we love to have you share your comments and experiences below.

By Jerrid Stelter, Contributing Researcher/Writer

Comment about this at our Blog

Book Review: Making Disciples of Oral Leanrers compiled by Avery Willis, Steve Evans

noreply@blogger.com (Sixteen:Fifteen) — Thu, 26 Feb 2009 18:10:00 +0000

The problem: 4 billion of the world’s people are oral communicators, yet the vast majority of the mission workers trying to share the gospel with them are highly literate. Recent studies have shown that oral learners cannot mentally process a literate presentation of lecture, lists and outlines, and will not learn in that manner, even if the presentation is given orally. The difference is deeply cultural, and cuts to the root of how truth is communicated within a culture. The medium must be stories.

No mission strategy to an unengaged and unreached people group (UUPG) is likely to succeed without the application of the principles presented in addressed in Making Disciples of Oral Learners. It is essential information for “pastors, churches, partners, networks, seminaries and missionaries,” who must embrace oral means if they hope to “evangelize the unreached, disciple the new believers, train church leaders and multiply reproducing churches…”

In this primer, written by a committee of experts from the Lausanne Committee for World Evangelization and the International Orality Network, you will find the basic information on reaching oral cultures in concise form. This book is the place to start if you need resources to educate your church or missions group about the issues of oral cultures. Bob Creson, President of Wycliffe Bible Translators, writes:

“The majority of the remaining unreached peoples of the earth cannot read or write, so the Word of God will be most effectively communicated through oral means and storytelling…This book will be of great help to Christian workers around the world who wish to understand and relate in oral cultures.”

Reviewed by Karen Gregory, Desert Springs Church, Missions Lay-Leader

Buy this book NOW at Amazon. Or download a PDF version at oralbible.com