May 19, 2026

The SEND U Blog

Reflections and Resources for Lifelong Learning for Missionaries

Category: Theology

Fulfilling Marketplace Ministry
Theology, Missionary Roles

Fulfilling Marketplace Ministry

In my previous post I sketched out the significance of work from a Christian perspective: Work is part of God’s original design for humanity.  The Fall brought toil and frustration to work but did not diminish the significance of work.  Understanding work in the light of our primary and secondary calling enables us to engage in all types of work for the glory of God and the good of our neighbors.… Read the whole post
Gary Ridley1 min read
Significance of Work
Theology

Significance of Work

I’ve been asked to give some thoughts on the theology of marketplace ministry. Apparently, some are experiencing a level of frustration balancing marketplace work (whether in education or business) with ministry work. I will share my thoughts in two blog posts. In this first post, we will identify the significance of work for a Christian. In the second we explore the implications for marketplace ministry. I hope to stimulate your thinking in these areas and do not presume to write as an authority in these areas. ”In the beginning there was work.” So begins the first chapter of Tim Keller’s book, Every Good Endeavor: Connecting Your Work to God. He continues,… Read the whole post
Gary Ridley1 min read
Theology, Book Reviews, Holy Spirit, Gospel

Book Review: Prepared by Grace, for Grace.

INTRODUCTION: Historical theology does not often get a place at the table in missiological discussions. Its neglect can leave us at the mercy of current thinking and trends. Reading theologians from other eras guards us against our blind spots. Other eras have their blind spots too but they are usually different than ours. Historical theology is a safeguard against cultural bias. The book that I was asked to review looks at the Puritans, whose works I have spent a lot of time reading. Joel R. Beeke and Paul M. Smalley have written a book titled, Prepared by Grace, for Grace: The Puritans on God’s Ordinary Way of Leading Sinners to Christ (Grand Rapids: Reformation Heritage Books, 2013). The volume deals with an issue central to missiology. The authors write in the introduction:      … Read the whole post
Gary Ridley1 min read
Pre-field Training, Church, Books, Resources, Training, Book Reviews

Book Review: Well Sent

I have frequently been asked about resources for local church missions programs. In 2015, Steve Beirn, Global Ministries Pastor at Calvary Church in Lancaster, PA, published Well Sent: Reimaging the Church’s Missionary-Sending Process. Steve served at our sending church in Holland, Michigan before going to Calvary so I know him well. He writes with passion and experience. In the introduction he writes:             This book seeks to elevate the role of the local church in the sending effort. The trend in missions today is to place the individual at the center of the sending process. Sometimes the agency is placed at the center. This book places the local church at the center of the sending process. – Well Sent, p. 17.… Read the whole post
Gary Ridley1 min read
Bridging the Divide Network
Islam, Theology, Christ, Insider Movements, Bible

Bridging the Divide Network

In the October 2017 issue of Missio Nexus’ publication, Anthology, the article “Transforming Perspectives” caught my attention. The article reflects on the five consultations that have taken place since 2011 organized by the Bridging the Divide Network (BtD). This network has brought together people with different perspectives on Insider Movements to increase understanding in a safe environment. The article describes the consultation: Nearly two hundred scholar-practitioners have been involved at some point, scores of papers have been presented and responded to, and dozens of group discussions have covered a range of topics related to ministry approaches among Muslims. Anthology October 2017 vol. 5 no. 2, 22.… Read the whole post
Gary Ridley1 min read
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