Our world is ruled by relativism, pluralism, and pragmatism. It manifests selfishness, oppression, and injustice. Those seeking to live missionally must be confident they are standing and operating on a solid biblical and theological foundation for both ethical and just means and ends. Missional leaders must know two things: One, that there is a Biblical basis for a cross-cultural and cross-generational moral and social theology. Two, they should also know that the character and integrity of the messenger and the grace, compassion, and justice of the method can and will enhance or block the communication of the gospel message or the implementation of gospel-centered justice.
Moral formation challenges missional leaders to explore, analyze, and evaluate their personal, cultural, familial, and assumed moral and social ethic, always driving them back to biblical and theological foundations. Only then can missional leaders head into missional lives and ministries confident that their lives, decisions, relations, and methods are grounded in a biblical theology. And only then can missional leaders bring the true hope and healing of the gospel to individuals, families, neighborhoods, and communities.
Dr. Curt Watke is a distinguished missiologist whose three-plus-decade-long career has significantly impacted Christian mission work in North America, particularly in under-reached and challenging regions. Holding a Ph.D. in Evangelism and Missions, Dr. Watke has focused on bridging cultural gaps and fostering sustainable Christian communities by developing innovative strategies that address contemporary challenges like globalization, urbanization, and religious pluralism. His emphasis on cultural sensitivity and contextualization in mission work is reflected in his collaborative writings, including notable works such as “Ministry Context Exploration: Understanding North American Cultures” and “Starting Reproducing Congregations.” Beyond his writing, Dr. Watke is a sought-after speaker and educator, lecturing at seminaries and conferences worldwide, and his teachings continue to inspire and equip new generations of missional leaders. His enduring legacy is marked by unwavering dedication to the mission of God and a profound influence on missional thought and practice. Dr. Watke serves as President and Professor of Evangelism & Missiology at Missional University.
