In an earlier post, I mentioned the use us English Language training classes to non-speakers as a way to meet non-Christians and to introduce the Gospel to them.
Joel Bleasedale, from TravelTree, has posted a good introduction to the subject. Note that he’s promoting international travel, not missions. But I have had friends enter a “closed” country as an English language teacher.
Remember that the Sunday School movement began as a way to teach children to read, so they can read the Bible. This is much the same. Teach English to people who want to learn, and give them the Gospel while you are at it.
2 responses so far ↓
Trisha // June 19, 2008 at 8:52 am
Do you think that it is ethical to pose as an ESL teacher when you are not? Leaving aside the issue of quality for the students (being a native English speaker does NOT necessarily equal teaching competence) and the fact that you’d undermine the credibility of genuine teachers, do you find dishonesty compatible with your religious beliefs? I find this surprising.
netcastpba // July 10, 2008 at 4:04 am
Trisha, I appreciate your comment, and apologize for the confusion. I agree that simply being able to speak English is not the same as being able to teach English. But someone who has taken training in teaching English and in teaching ELS, and then uses that training in order to either enter a “closed” country or to build relationships with potential converts is indeed an acceptable practice, and not inconsistent with my religious beliefs. I, as a Baptist, come from a long heritage of providing schools, hospitals, soup kitchens and shelters in order to build relationships with those who may need to hear my Gospel message. Jesus, the Apostles and the Prophets performed miracles to draw a crowd, and then offered an explanation for their generosity, which was the intent of the miracle in the first place.