The “Traditional” model of sending US supported missionaries to unreached places has carried the freight of global outreach for the last 100+ years. However, the global landscape has changed rapidly in ways that challenge this model. Here are a few of the fundamental changes.
In 1970, about 25% of the world’s unreached people lived in countries “closed” to traditional missionaries. By 2020, the figure had risen to 60% and continues to increase. “Missionary” access to unreached people has been drastically reduced, while we hear that the numbers of traditional, supported US missionaries being sent overseas is declining, as well.
Here’s a seemingly unrelated statistic: In 1970, 300,000 U.S. citizens were working overseas. By 2020, there were 9,000,000 US citizens working in local marketplaces overseas. Quick observation: American business people and professionals are warmly welcomed in places where “traditional missionaries” are forbidden. Missional marketplace workers and business owners now have the best access to the world’s unreached peoples. MDE’s Business, Mission, and Career support services equip and sustain this Kingdom marketplace workforce. Your prayers, volunteer service, and financial gifts make it possible. Thank you!