Towards Global Missional Leadership

Foreword

(wrote the foreword)

Paul Bendor-Samuel

“Kirk Franklin introduces the challenges and opportunities facing all who are involved in God’s Mission in the often-confusing globalized world of the 21st century. With deep understanding of the issues at stake, coupled with keen historical and theological insights, Franklin not only encourages us to join the Triune God in his mission to the world, but also explains what it takes to be a missionary leader today. He knows what he is writing about—he has been in the field himself for decades. I highly recommend the book, not only for church leaders and missionary practitioners, but also for teachers and students in the field of missiology. It is a thought provoking publication that needs to be read carefully and discussed thoroughly by all.”

Piet Meiring

“This is not a “standard” leadership book—it is a paradigm-changing leadership book. Kirk Franklin demonstrates that a new approach to global leadership is needed, one that displays generosity of spirit, values friendship among leaders, and invites missiological reflection in the context of community. These truths, and the others he introduces, are not only innovative and profound, but are modeled by Franklin himself, a leader whom we have seen authentically live these same values.”

Louis and Susan Sutton

“Globalization has fundamentally transformed how missions function, including for those of us involved in the translation of Scriptures. Though much of this transformation has been positive, it has also raised questions. Kirk Franklin helps focus the discussion for us by stating the need for a “working theology of mission”. In Towards Global Missional Leadership, Franklin provides the perspective and insight needed to start answering these questions.”

Bob Creson

“Kirk Franklin is not only a missiologist and missions practitioner, but also a well-proven leader in the global missional context. As Executive Director of the Wycliffe Global Alliance, he has successfully led great changes in organizational structure, as well as in strategy for this worldwide Bible translation community. The vision and philosophy behind the changes described in this book will help us see a new horizon of mission paradigm and leadership.”

Rev. Dr Bambang Widjaja

“I am excited about Kirk Franklin’s book Towards Global Missional Leadership. My journey in serving God over the past forty years has been an amazing learning experience, as I have walked alongside so many men and women from numerous countries and cultures, dedicated and committed to Jesus Christ. Meeting and spending time with Franklin has been a great joy, and I have observed him as he focused on the issues he speaks to in this book. It is an essential tool for the current and future mission leader.”

Decio de Carvalho

“A must read book for all involved in leading missions, whether global or local. Today’s increasingly complex world brings challenges at a pace faster than we anticipate. Rather than counter this with new ideas about what to do, Franklin’s book forces me to a standstill—to reflect not only on where mission movements and endeavors have come from, but importantly, why. Before looking to the future, I must first reflect on my own relationship with the Triune God—a poignant reminder that it is God’s mission, and only He can provide the answers! Read this book for refreshing insight into seeing and doing missions through the eyes and mind of God.”

Lena Lim

“To be a leader today is a challenge, as the global context is constantly changing. Many books are being produced to help us understand changing realities; only a handful are helping us understand understand how to lead in the middle of changing times. This is the first book I have read that challenged me to dig deeper into the missio Dei in order to understand leadership as a participant in God’s mission. Kirk Franklin’s book presents a unique perspective that can help the church, global mission movements, and especially leaders, to gain a renewed appreciation of the missional DNA that God has shared with us.”

David D. Ruiz M.