Short-Term Missions Workbook: From Mission Tourists to Global Citizens

by Tim A. Dearborn

Going on a short-term missions trip can be a life- and faith-transforming experience. It can enrich the way you view the world. It can cause you to rely on God more fully. It is an opportunity to develop deep relationships with your team and the people you serve.

A short-term missions experience can also involve weeks of physical and spiritual challenges. An unprepared team can wreak havoc on each other and the people they intend to serve.

To get the most out of a missions trip, you need to go prepared. Whether you are going on your own or with a team, the keys to preparation are here in this workbook. In this ten-week course, which includes questions for individual reflection and group discussion, you will find
a concise summary of crosscultural principles
help in facing spiritual warfare
tips on avoiding a tourist mentality
spiritual preparation through individual or group Bible study

This revised and expanded edition includes updated content throughout and new chapters on facing risks, fears, and suffering, and making the most of the trip after returning home.

If you are planning to go on a short-term missions trip, don't leave home without working through this book!

Genres: Christian, Christian Non Fiction, Nonfiction

144 pages, Paperback

First published October 1, 2003

About the author

Tim Dearborn served for ten years as director for faith and development at World Vision International. He has also served as director of the Lloyd John Ogilvie Institute of Preaching and chair of the board for the International Fellowship of Evangelical Mission Theologians, as well as a pastor and professor of theology, mission, and social ethics. His books include Beyond Duty: A Passion for Christ, a Heart for Mission and The Local Church in a Global Future. Tim lives in Seattle with his wife, Kerry.

Reviews

[Paul · Rating 4 out of 5]

I read this book in preparation for a cross-cultural trip with students. I have traveled quite a bit for work, ministry, and personal fulfillment, so I didn't expect much from it. I was surprised at how helpful the questions for introspection were in preparation for the trip and in reflection after I returned home. it is an easy read, but helpful ... especially for a first-time journey to do ministry.

[Kimberly · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book is invaluable to those planning a short-mission trip. It prepares you mentally, emotionally and spiritually for your trip. In addition, there is a section devoted to your return, allowing you to process your experience. Highly recommend!

[Aiden · Rating 2 out of 5]

Due to the broad topic at hand I consistently felt like what I was reading was irrelevant to my situation.

[Nick Woodall · Rating 4 out of 5]

This book is a superb book to use to prepare a team to go overseas. Very insightful and full of exercises and questions to get the team ready for their overseas experience.