There is a problem on the mission field that each missionary will face. I would suggest that you read the book that is linked at the bottom of this post. I wish that I had known about this book when I started back in 1985.
There is always a clash of cultures on the mission field. We may avoid it for a long time but it will almost certainly happen. I have fallen into these traps many times. I wanted to give you some good quotes that might help you in your relationship with the people that God has sent you to minister to.
The biggest problem is probably the attitude of superiority that we get as missionaries. Read and consider. I welcome your comments or questions.
Usually superiority appears in disguises that pretend to be virtues-virtues such as
• I need to correct their error (meaning I have superior knowledge, a corner on truth).
• My education has equipped me to know what is best for you (so let me do most of the talking while you do most of the listening and changing).
• I am here to help you (so do as I say).
• I can be your spiritual mentor (so I am your role model).
• Let me disciple you, equip you, train you (often perceived as “let me make you into a clone of myself”).
Cross-cultural Servanthood: Serving the World in Christlike Humility (Duane Elmer)
