Category
Poster - Applied
Description
For generations, an imbalance between the number of men, particularly single men, on the mission field has been far exceeded by that of women. The causes of this discrepancy are a common topic of discussion in missiological spheres, but little research has been found to provide data on this issue. It is this gap that this research project seeks to close. As Jesus’ mandate in Matthew 28 is to result in the gospel making its way to every nation and culture, so is every member of the Body of Christ intended to take part, women and men. Due to varying cultural and social structures present throughout the world, the committed work of both genders are essential to the carrying out of the Great Commission. At its foundation, this research stems from and attempts to answer the question, “Where are all the men?”. Data was collected by conducting both surveys and interviews with students and alumni associated with the Global Studies program at Liberty University. These produced five predominant causes behind this gap: Financial concerns, desire for career success, desire for family or fear/hesitancy to go alone, sin struggles/feeling disqualified from ministry, and family pressures. These findings align with initial expectations while offering new insights into the gender imbalance in this field. An understanding of these factors contributes to the general knowledge base and works towards addressing the inaction of single men. Future research may involve a broader demographic, including but not limited to field workers, mobilizers, and organizational executives. By further understanding these factors and their influence on young men going to the nations, churches, educational programs, and sending organizations can better equip and disciple young men to understand the realities of global work as well as the possibilities open to those who are in faithful pursuit of Kingdom work.
The Sociocultural Factors Keeping Single American Men Out of International Cross-Cultural Ministry
Poster - Applied
For generations, an imbalance between the number of men, particularly single men, on the mission field has been far exceeded by that of women. The causes of this discrepancy are a common topic of discussion in missiological spheres, but little research has been found to provide data on this issue. It is this gap that this research project seeks to close. As Jesus’ mandate in Matthew 28 is to result in the gospel making its way to every nation and culture, so is every member of the Body of Christ intended to take part, women and men. Due to varying cultural and social structures present throughout the world, the committed work of both genders are essential to the carrying out of the Great Commission. At its foundation, this research stems from and attempts to answer the question, “Where are all the men?”. Data was collected by conducting both surveys and interviews with students and alumni associated with the Global Studies program at Liberty University. These produced five predominant causes behind this gap: Financial concerns, desire for career success, desire for family or fear/hesitancy to go alone, sin struggles/feeling disqualified from ministry, and family pressures. These findings align with initial expectations while offering new insights into the gender imbalance in this field. An understanding of these factors contributes to the general knowledge base and works towards addressing the inaction of single men. Future research may involve a broader demographic, including but not limited to field workers, mobilizers, and organizational executives. By further understanding these factors and their influence on young men going to the nations, churches, educational programs, and sending organizations can better equip and disciple young men to understand the realities of global work as well as the possibilities open to those who are in faithful pursuit of Kingdom work.
Comments
Graduate