STM Values and Objectives Print E-mail

Theological Basis of MBMSI Short-Term Ministries

1. The life and teaching of Jesus modeled discipleship training through short-term mission (Luke 9&10).
2. Discipleship and mission are never separated in Jesus' ministry.
3. The "priesthood of all believers" includes the understanding that all disciples of Jesus are called to mission - not just the "professionals" (Luke 10:2,3; Mt 28:18-20).  Short-term mission provides an opportunity for the whole church to share the whole gospel to the whole world.
4. Multiplication occurs through discipleship training in short term mission (2 Timothy 2:2).
5. Through short term mission Christians recognize they are called and empowered to witness (Acts 1:8).
6. Short term mission encourages a life of faith (Hebrews 11:8, Romans 12:1&2, John 21:15, Matthew 22:37-39)


Core Values of MBMSI Short-Term Ministries

1. Healthy STM mission flows out of intimacy with Jesus (motivation)
2. Healthy STM mission occurs through the local Church (methodology)
3. Healthy STM mission is linked to a long term mission strategy (outcomes)
4. Healthy STM flows from good partnerships, networking and cooperation with others.
5. Healthy STM respects and cooperates with the broader Body of Christ.
6. Healthy STM mission strengthens the sending church.


STM Objectives

1. Develop STM programs that have long-term benefits for both the mission hosts, the mission participants and the mission sending churches.
2. Develop STM programs where MBMSI staff and missionaries build relationships with STM participants to encourage them toward long-term service and mission.
3. Deliver all STM programs with an intentional discipleship focus influencing participant training, assignment planning and participant debrief.
4. Deliver all STM programs in a quality manner that inspires confidence in the ministry of MBMSI.
5. Encourage local church initiative in all STM planning and delivery.
6. Develop STM programs whose fruit remains (John 15:16)
7. Develop STM programs that support church growth and new church development.


STM Best Practice Training Principles

1. Wherever possible MBMSI staff will present quality STM training material for churches in person in an effort to build relationships with participants and their sending churches.
2. STM instructors will have had prior cross-cultural STM experience.
3. STM instructors will be good communicators who have a teaching gift.
4. STM training material will include both theoretical as well as experiential learning.
5. Whenever possible, STM training will be delivered in a transformational retreat atmosphere (eg. 24 hours - Friday evening/Saturday morning and afternoon).
6. STM trainers will emphasize relationship building with participants in their training facilitation and follow up with potential long-term missionaries.
7. Wherever possible, local church leadership will be involved in the STM training and debrief process of discipleship.


Strategy of MBMSI Short Term Ministries

1. Prepare - All STM will include a pre-trip training that includes both logistical and spiritual preparation.
2. Present  - All STM will include a ministry component during which participants both learn and share in a host culture.
3. Process - All STM will include a post-trip debrief where participants are invited to reflect on their experience and take home transferable principles for ongoing personal discipleship and mission growth.
 
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