Debunking the Myth of the 'Difficult' Respondent: Interaction with Christian Missionaries

In recent interactions with Christian missionaries, I've often found myself in an unusual position. As a neutral observer and a concerned critic, my experiences offer unique insights into the methods and mindset of missionary work in a diverse world. This article explores these encounters, reflecting on the effectiveness and ethical implications of missionary practices.

Encounters with Christian Missionaries

Throughout my life, I have never encountered a Christian missionary knocking on my door or approaching me in the street with the intent to discuss the Bible. This seems to be a common situation for many people in certain regions and communities. The fact that such interactions are uncommon among Christian missionaries’ targets can be a damning indictment of a movement committed to spreading the gospel.

Matthew 28:19-20 famously instructs, 'Go therefore and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit, teaching them to observe all that I have commanded you.' However, the act of going forth must be proactive, rather than merely waiting for others to come to you.

My Reactions to Christian Missionaries

Upon these rare encounters, most people tend to brush off missionaries, smile, and move on. In my case, although I have no intention of converting anyone, I take a particular approach. My philosophy involves taking care of children and engaging in community service, thus bridging the gap in a non-confrontational manner.

Success in missionary work may vary depending on the individual's religious background or beliefs. In some cases, simply the mere presence of missionaries can prompt some individuals to perform self-assessment and question their faith, without necessarily converting. This approach can be seen as a form of 'sidestepping' the conversion process, focusing instead on community engagement and offering tangible help.

Cultural Sensitivity in Missionary Work

The case of the North Sentineles is a prime example of the challenges faced by missionaries in an isolated or uncontacted community. The North Sentineles, a tribe of Andaman Islands, are renowned for their hostility towards outsiders. This highlights the importance of cultural sensitivity and respect for indigenous beliefs and practices in missionary work.

Engaging with any community, be it isolated or not, requires an understanding and respect for local traditions. Missionaries must be more than mere agents of conversion; they must be ambassadors of peace and goodwill. Imposing one's beliefs and values without considering the local culture can lead to misunderstandings and even hostility, as I witnessed during my experience in Iquitos, Peru.

Reflections on Persecution and Injustice

During a meal in Iquitos, Peru, I witnessed an interaction between a local couple and a group of missionaries who were renting sound equipment and festival grounds to prevent the celebration of San Juan Bautista. The missionaries aimed to be the sole entertainment for the day, disrupting a local tradition in what they perceived to be the name of their deity. This act, while religious in intent, was nothing short of offensive and disrespectful.

The missionaries' behavior was a clear example of how their mission can often be at odds with local customs and traditions. It was disrespectful and arrogant to impose their beliefs on others, eroding the respect and acceptance of their message. It left me with a sense of regret that I did not use the opportunity to express my thoughts and feelings about their actions.

The Arrogance of Missionaries

Considering the effectiveness of missionary work, it's essential to reflect on the attitudes of those involved. In general, many missionaries can be classified as arrogant, as they believe that their faith and practices are superior and that they alone hold the truth.

I myself am not religious, but my perspective is one of a neutral observer. I come across many religious individuals who wear crosses or engage in activities that they believe will foster their faith. However, these practices often lead to contradictions within their own beliefs. For example, I have come across individuals who wear crosses and engage in fornication or visit nude beaches, which raises questions about their true adherence to their faith.

The early Church fathers, whose theological writings I frequently analyze, have often not been as well-known to these missionaries. Baptism, a critical practice for many Christian denominations, is taken very seriously by me, and I ensure that the water is clean and free from contaminants, as I have OCD.

Given these complexities, the most impactful missionaries are those who come from more humble backgrounds and do not view themselves as saviors. Ideally, missionaries should invite people to Christianity in a non-threatening and respectful manner, allowing them to question and reflect on their beliefs without pressure.

It's crucial for missionaries to recognize that their god is not defined by their actions and behaviors but by their values and ethical conduct. As such, they should consider praying for God's grace not only for themselves but also for those they serve, ensuring that their mission is one of love, understanding, and respect.

Ultimately, the success of missionary work may lie not in the number of converts but in the positive impact it has on communities, fostering goodwill and understanding, rather than division and conflict.