Nobody Becomes a Missionary Because They Like to Listen (Part 2)

Continuing from Part 1

I do think that missionaries are better in proportion to their being good listeners.

I sometimes have made the mistake of couching the issue in terms of extrovert and introvert. Some mission boards idealize the missionary who is rather loud, chatty and very active socially. However, the key point I think is not about temperament, but developing a skill—- ability to ACTIVELY LISTEN. Extroverts Make the Best Missionaries?>

Some “REAL” (active) listening helps.

It helps build relationships. It establishes a relationship of courtesy and respect. Missions generally is very relational. Listening shows that one cares about what the person thinks, feels, and values. Missionaries are NOT simply purveyors of the Gospel (good news). It it was, then dumping religious tracts all over (a la “The Gospel Blimp“) or filling the airwaves with a Gospel presentation (such as the “He Gets Us” commercial shown at this year’s Super Bowl) would be ultimate forms of missions.It is foundational to interreligious dialogue. People respond openly to what you have to say if you first respond openly to them. If, however, one is listening only to the extent that one is trying to figure out how to undermine what they think, feel, and value, there is likely to a tendency to socially disconnect or to push back. It is needed for contextualization, incarnational ministry, and inculturation. All three of these (related) roles involves entering a culture as a learner. We learn through observing, participating, and listening.It is Biblical. Christians are supposed to answer questions from outsiders. Both I Peter 3:15 and Colossians 4:5-6 point toward listening first. In fact, they arguably suggest that it should be the non-Christian who drives the conversation.

I Peter 3:15 states

But in your hearts revere Christ as Lord. Always be prepared to give an answer to everyone who asks you to give the reason for the hope that you have. But do this with gentleness and respect,

Colossians 4:5-6 states

Be wise in the way you act toward outsiders; make the most of every opportunity. 6 Let your conversation be always full of grace, seasoned with salt, so that you may know how to answer everyone.

These verses are specifically related to conversations with those who are outside of the church. As such, this certainly applies to missionaries. And of course, it is reasonable to add the most well-know passage on listening in the Bible:

James 1:19 states

 My dear brothers and sisters, take note of this: Everyone should be quick to listen, slow to speak and slow to become angry,