Why Missions Is More Than A Trip

Written By GO InterNational

Episode Summary

Short-term missions has shaped generations of Christians, yet few models have been examined as honestly as this one. In the first episode of Edge of the Map, GO International leaders sit down with Clint Bokelman to reflect on decades of experience across cultures and contexts.

Through stories that echo the book of Acts and moments that expose unintended harm, the conversation wrestles with a central tension. How do we participate in God’s mission without trying to control it?

This episode invites listeners to reconsider what success in missions really looks like and why discipleship, humility, and long-term partnership matter more than well-planned programs.

Key Takeaways

  • Short-term missions can be a powerful discipleship tool when it forms people in obedience, not performance.

  • Trying to “choreograph” the trip can become a subtle way of asking God to submit to our script.

  • A healthier posture is to ask where God is already moving and join Him, instead of asking Him to bless our plans.

  • Field partnerships should be built on proven character and ongoing fruit, not on what outsiders want to accomplish.

  • “Blessing” can backfire when it creates dependency, unrealistic expectations, or temptation that harms local leaders.

  • Gen Z may be more open than we think, but the bridge from worship moments to mission lives is discipleship.

  • The goal is not going somewhere. The goal is making disciples who make disciples.

Resources Mentioned

  • When Helping Hurts (helping without harming; dependence dynamics)

  • Experiencing God (framework: join where God is already working)

  • Luke 10 (Jesus sending disciples; debriefing and discipleship)

  • Antioch Community Church / School of Discipleship (Waco), Jimmy Seibert

  • Evangelism Explosion (evangelism training framework)

  • Asbury revival (referenced in connection with Gen Z and worship culture)

Call to Action

Be part of the story at the edge of the map. Explore upcoming trips, support frontline leaders, and discover how you can fuel the movement at gointernational.org.

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