Zambia Hunt

In my years of working alongside dedicated gospel laborers in Africa, I’ve encountered stories that have left me feeling a mix of shame, anger, and heartbreak. While each account is unique, a common thread has emerged: some missionaries operate with an underdeveloped understanding of the church and a misguided approach to their mission.

Cultural Grace Meets Misguided Control

My African colleagues are known for their exceptional grace and patience. It’s rare to hear a Zambian raise their voice in disagreement, as there’s a cultural emphasis on maintaining relationships even amidst severe conflicts. However, this admirable trait can sometimes be taken advantage of.

Case Studies in Mismanagement

1. Property Disputes: In one heartbreaking instance, a missionary organization evicted a local church from a property where their building had stood for over two decades. The congregation was left homeless, their prayers unanswered as the mission subdivided and sold the land. In Zambia there was an infamous case of missionaries taking roofing off church buildings in an ongoing dispute that eventually reached Statehouse or intervention.
2. Financial Control: Some retired missionaries continue to exert influence through financial means. By maintaining control over support funds, they effectively hold local leaders hostage to their will, stifling growth and necessary changes. I have recently heard of churches in rural Kenya who will only use the KJV version of the Bible because to do anything else would threaten the financial support that the retired missionary still sends to the pastor and church.
3. Lingering Authority: Even years after departure, founding missionaries sometimes attempt to override decisions made by local church leadership. This creates division, with older members opposing their appointed pastors based on the opinions of long-gone missionaries. I know of godly men who have been called to lead churches long after the Western missionary has “handed over” who are constantly opposed by the congregation because the real authority is the missionary.

The Root of the Problem

These scenarios point to a fundamental issue: a failure to fully empower and trust local leadership. While the initial work of establishing churches is commendable, the reluctance to hand over complete autonomy – including property rights and financial independence – reveals a deeper problem. It also reveals a lack of trust in God who has given his own guarantee that He will build and protect His church.

Moving Forward

As we reflect on these challenges, it’s crucial that we:

1. Reevaluate our understanding of church autonomy in mission work.
2. Develop strategies for complete handover of leadership and resources to local communities.
3. Encourage ongoing education for missionaries about cultural sensitivity and the importance of empowering local leadership.

By addressing these issues, we can work towards a more respectful, empowering, and truly collaborative approach to mission work in Africa and beyond.