To Give or Not to Give: Rethinking Dependency, Restoring Generosity, and Redefining Sustainability

by John Rowell

Modern mission theory is guided largely by the three self paradigm that suggests indigenous churches can only be healthy if they are self-governing, self-propagating, and self-supporting. Consequently, Western missionaries, their churches, and their agencies have been increasingly indisposed to giving generously. We must rethink the interplay of dollars dependency and what it means to do the right thing with our money as we pursue twenty-first century missions. This book answers the questions whether Westerners ought to give or not to give in support of global evangelism and encourages maximum generosity as the path most reflective of God's heart on the matter.

Genres: Christian, Poverty

262 pages, Paperback

First published January 3, 2007

Reviews

[Perla K. Cariño · Rating 4 out of 5]

Great information that I wasn't aware of and thoughts that I will be keeping in mind. I do think there are some aspects not included though or oversimplified because the book sometimes combines the topics of giving to churches and missionaries to also giving to charity organizations and those in need.

[Leesgoodfood · Rating 3 out of 5]

I mostly read, but skimmed a little. There was more repetition than I would have liked to keep me intent interested...but it is a very complex topic, and the review in different contexts may have been needed.

[Steve · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is a must-read for those wrestling with how to give to those in the developing world without damaging them. Errs on the side of generosity.

[Shane · Rating 3 out of 5]

Decent challenge to western/wealthy Christians about level of support for others. Good starting point.