Transforming Culture: A Challenge for Christian Mission

by Sherwood G. Lingenfelter

Revised edition gives readable case studies, more material on conflict resolution and specific applications on how to transform culture from the mission field.

Genres: Anthropology, Christian, Cultural

192 pages, Paperback

First published March 1, 1992

Reviews

[Jeff]

Lingenfelter helps us understand the dynamics of conflicts faced by missionaries and nationals. The book is rich in case studies and uncovers root causes and contradictory assumptions hindering collaboration. The author suggests a model viewing human cultures out of five prototype social games (Individualist, Authoritarian, Hierachist, egalitarian and hermit). The strength of his reflections lie in description rather than offering clear solutions (western approach). The predominance of failure cases may leave readers somewhat demotivated. In Lingenfelter's own words, "the purpose of this book is to help the reader comprehend the dimensions of our cultural prisons and discover some of the biblical keys that will allow us to unlock the gates to our cultural walls."

[Younoussa]

Master piece for missions

This book is a must for any Christian who aspires to expand the Kingdom of God to other nations. A book to have at one bedside, near our Bible, as a manual as we live the Great Commission.

[Daniel]

Loved this book! Lingenfelter backs his methodology up with case study after case study. I hope to apply some of his wisdom to mission work in the future.