10 Most Important Qualities of a Cross-Cultural Minister
How did Jesus choose His disciples? They were an unlikely group. Fishermen, a tax collector, a random doctor thrown into the mix. What did He look for in those who would serve alongside Him? Throughout history, God has chosen unlikely people to do His work. What characteristics are most important in the life of a cross-cultural minister?
We are born with personality traits. They are a matter of DNA, handed down by our parents. Other traits develop in early childhood. You don’t choose whether you are an introvert or an extrovert.
Character, however, is developed. It grows both in adolescence and adulthood. We can choose to intentionally embrace God’s transforming work in our lives. He prunes and develops us. Through this, we grow into the person He wants us to be. This article looks at this issue particularly as it pertains to those who minister cross-culturally.
Many qualities of an effective missionary are developed in the field. As we go, labor, and struggle, these things grow in us. Some can be worked on before entering life as a cross-cultural minister.
Ten Most Important Characteristics in the Life of a Cross-Cultural Minister
1. Intimacy with God- Abiding in Christ
This can not be over-emphasized. It is out of our life with God that everything flows. As we abide in Him, we bear much fruit. Apart from Him, we can do nothing (John 15:16).
Our understanding of His character creates the foundation through which we interpret life. This is true both for our own lives, and as we help others. We come to understand His character through the study of His Word. We also learn who He is as we experience His character manifested through circumstances.
I knew God as Healer, Provider, and Grace-giver as I experienced Him being those things for me on the field.
We grow in understanding of His love. We learn to find satisfaction in God Himself, not in fruit or results. (No matter how much pressure you feel to write those exciting letters to supporters back home!) His purposes and His glory become our driving motivation for our work. This happens as we grow in an ever-deeper relationship with Jesus.
2. Willingness to Embrace Suffering
Our world markets freedom from hardship as a virtue. Yet suffering is both a normal and important part of a disciple’s life. Jesus said, “In this world, you will have trouble. Don’t be dismayed. I have overcome the world.” (John 16:33). Paul writes of wanting to know Christ and fellowship with Him in suffering (Phil. 3:10).
Unless we are willing to embrace a life of hardship, we can not become effective cross-cultural ministers. This begins with a deep surrender to the Lordship of Jesus. It also requires a firmly held belief in the goodness of God, no matter what we go through.
We learn to endure trials, difficulties, persecution, temptation, pain, and hardship as good soldiers. (2 Tim. 2:3-5). But soldiers who are deeply loved by a good, good Father who cares for us.
While we do not want to suffer, when it comes, we allow God to use it to form His character in us and draw us into His embrace.
3. God’s Heart for people
Compassion, empathy, and a servant’s heart must become part of who we are. The source of these characteristics is our relationship with Jesus. As we spend time with Him, we catch His heart for the lost.
The Master wept over Jerusalem, His heart was broken over their resistance to His truth. Do the things that break God’s heart break yours? Are you able to see the people around you with His eyes of love and compassion?
Our ability to empathize with others is vital if we want to minister. As we identify with their context, needs, and situation we are able to communicate God’s truth in a way they will understand.
If we come as a Savior, we will fail. Only Christ can save. If we come with the heart of a servant, His salvation will flow through us.
4. Vision, Passion, and Focus
One thing that sustains people in the field is knowing God has called them there. This may be a supernatural encounter you point to. It may simply be a deep knowing that comes from the study of His Word and the Great Commission. Either way, you need to know that God has directed you to the work you do. This foundational sense of calling from God will keep you in the times you desperately want to quit and go home.
When vision and passion are clear, you are also more able to focus and “keep the main thing the main thing.”
Many missionaries drift into activities not related to their original call. Sometimes, God is redirecting. Other times, we need to realign ourselves. We must go back to what God spoke in the beginning.
5. Faith and Boldness
A cross-cultural minister must be willing to take risks and try new things. Be it food, or a new cultural dance, our lives require us to step outside of what is comfortable.
This is true when it comes to sharing the good news with those around us as well. Not everyone has an extroverted personality. Not everyone is born an optimist.
Faith and boldness, however, are qualities God develops within us. As we take steps outside our natural abilities, these characteristics begin to grow. They are the fruit of His Spirit’s work in us.
6. Flexibility/Adaptability and Inter-cultural skills
These can be developed before going to the mission field. You never stop growing in these though!
Choosing to be flexible means letting go of control. This is difficult. In a cross-cultural ministry context, it will make or break you.
7. Attitude of Humility
It is so natural for us to want to go into a cross-cultural environment as a teacher rather than a learner. Jesus modeled a different approach. In the book of Philippians, we see He took on the form of a baby and servant, not a King. In any cross-cultural work, learn before you teach. Humility and a posture of learning make you far more effective.
8. Practice Hospitality
Hospitality is an often overlooked qualification for spiritual eldership. It is mentioned in both 1 Timothy 3:2 and Titus 1:8.
As we engage with people of other worldviews, the need to exercise this gift is even more important.
In Western culture, hospitality is on the decline. Our busy lives prevent us from making time to invite someone into our home for a cup of coffee, or a meal. Those who learn to practice hospitality generously have deeper relationships of trust with those they want to reach.
9. Ability to Work in a Team
There is strength when we work in teams. That doesn’t mean it’s easy! For those with high D (DISC test) personalities, working with others who also have strong leadership qualities can be difficult. Cross-cultural relationships present unique challenges. Yet those with a lone-ranger approach, rarely are sustained and effective on the field.
10. Healthy Marriage or Singleness
Though this is listed as number ten, it is critically important to our emotional and spiritual health as cross-cultural ministers. Peter Scazerro’s books on emotionally healthy spirituality give insight on this important topic. Our marriage and family must be a source of life, the place from which we minister. Healthy singleness becomes a source of nourishment for others.
How Are You Doing in These Ten Areas?
Take a few moments to assess yourself in these ten qualities. Where do you need to grow? Where are you already strong? Talk to a friend or co-worker this week. Decide on two or three actions you want to take to grow in your weak areas.
What other qualities are important? Share in the comments below or on the Missionary Life Facebook group.