Before You Go: Wisdom from Ten Men on Serving Internationally

by Matt Bennett (Editor), Joshua Bowman (Editor)

Are you preparing to take the gospel to the nations?
You’ve said “yes” to God’s call to go, and now you will pack up your things and step into the unknown of a new location, people, and culture. The following years will likely include great joy, frustration, homesickness, difficulty, and excitement. In this book, ten men who have served in missions in various ways share what they wish they had known before they began.
This book is a handbook for entering the mission field, including essays

192 pages, Paperback

Published June 4, 2024

Reviews

[Seth Hering · Rating 5 out of 5]

Even though I don’t plan on serving internationally currently, I was encouraged to read Before You Go as I prepare to move states away from my family for domestic church planting. Before You Go has great insights from 10 men that have sacrificed so much to serve the Lord on missions. I especially enjoyed the chapters “Leaving the Ones You Love” and “Going Single”.

I would consider this book a helpful read if you plan on leaving your friends/family/church to serve whether internationally or here in the States.

[Ryan Martin · Rating 5 out of 5]

A very practical and personal read from 10 faithful servants, who have served on the mission field and speak from first-hand experience about life on the field and how to prepare adequately. The contributors unpack elements such as the nature of calling, how to adapt to language and culture, adjusting and serving as a family, and personal spiritual growth. This is a must read for anyone preparing to go to the field as you lay a strong foundation to not just survive, but thrive on the mission field.

[Ryan Rhew · Rating 5 out of 5]

Will be returning to this book time and again. Many practical applications and unique exhortations that I had never considered before. From trusted, godly, and experienced authors.

I especially appreciated Ryan Robertson’s chapter “Leaving What You Love,” Jeff Kelly’s “Identity and Task,” Brooks Buser’s “Suffering and the Missionary Life,” and Matt Rhodes’s “Going Single.”

An amazing volume full of gold for aspiring male missionaries. There’s no book quite like this.

[Scott Ray · Rating 5 out of 5]

Great collection of chapters from 10 men who served internationally. I was very impressed by their humbleness and transparency. Willing to discuss the hardships and joys of serving overseas. I didn't always agree with all conclusions from experiences, but they were very biblically based.