AMZING GRACE:


I hear what you are saying.

If it is pure humanitarianism and no Gospel witness is going forth, then this is a good donation but not really missions.

If, however, the humanitarian work is done by those who evangelize and these things go hand in hand then this is very God-honoring missions work.

Or, if these people are a small part of a larger effort (a group comes in, some work on evangelism others on humanitarian aid) then this too is a feasible strategy and because some folks are totally humanitarian focused, the effort as a whole is evangelistic.

Is this doctor and agrarian evangelizing at all?

If not, then I agree with you that a church should not figure them into their missions budget because missions involves evangelism.

However, I know of a veterinarian in Country X who also explains the Gospel as he works in a closed area. His outward work is all humanitarian but in private moments he is a very effective Gospel witness.



As far as planning outreach based on social action: Shouldn't we go to where the needs are? But we should go with the Gospel too. Example: church based AIDS efforts are a major need throughout the whole world, AIDS patients clinics, etc. This is humanitarian AID, but done in the name of Christ and with evangelistic intent and....sadly, is not being done as much as needed in Africa and others parts of the world where AIDS is destroying local families.

__________________
Pergamum


"If a commission by an earthly king is considered a honor, how can a commission by a Heavenly King be considered a sacrifice?"
-- David Livingstone