Powerful Words
Today I had a special meeting. The meeting was at the request of the Deputy Prime Minister of Cambodia. I first met the Deputy PM in June at the dedication of our new children’s center.
Read more
Strategies for Training, Missions and Ministry
Why doesn’t ‘Hillsong’ copy Cambodian music?
Last week I was visiting a Christian recording studio looking for Cambodian traditional music. They were more than happy to provide me with the latest traditional worship music. During my conversation with the Cambodian studio operator I mentioned to him that I enjoy Cambodian traditional music, but I hardly ever hear it because all the young musicians apparently like to sing Australian “Hillsong” worship music and seem to have little interest in Cambodian culture.
The Foreign Gospel (becoming an effective communicator)
For a missionary to develop an understanding of Cambodian forms and meanings is essential in order to be able to share the Gospel of Jesus Christ effectively. This is done through systematic study of the history, culture and worldview of a nation, but cannot be purely academic.
The Foreign Gospel (theological issues)
Even though a person may understand the words you are using, they are substituting the meaning of those words in relation to their own cultural understanding. To be an effective communicator, you have to know and understand both your own culture and receptor culture so that you can assure the message is being communicated effectively.
The Foreign Gospel (dress and appearance)
Someone said, “You never get a second chance to make a first impression.” The dress and appearance of a person automatically triggers an idea about what that person is going to say.
The Foreign Gospel (the meaning of colors)
Even things like the meanings behind colors have a significant effect on communication and what is understood. This is another issue which cross-cultural communicators must consider.
The Foreign Gospel
It is highly likely that wherever you live there are dozens of other ethnic groups from around the world living right next door to you. Communication is crucial. Just because they live near you doesn’t mean they think like you, or you like them. It takes effort to learn to be a good cross cultural communicator. In the following blogs I will give you some issues to think about and some recommendations.
Freedom!
Over the years Pastor Andrew and his friends have helped us train hundreds of local pastors, teach in schools, evangelize using karate and they have always been thoughtful and generous. A year and a half ago God opened a great door to help orphans and abandoned kids in dire poverty. First to jump in to help the kids was Freedom Church.
Which Church Wins?
Comparing these two churches feels like comparing apples and oranges. How can we compare the effectiveness of two entirely different churches. I have an idea! Let’s take a look at what the Bible says about the New Testament church. Let’s list the Biblical characteristics of a New Testament church.
Children’s Center Dedication
On June 3, 2010 the Imparting Smiles Children center was dedicated at Poipet, Cambodia by the Deputy PM of Cambodia and Governor of Banteay Meanchey Province.