Lausanne World Pulse – Perspectives Articles – The Gospel & International Studies: Can We Make the Connection?

By Douglas Shaw
May 2010

Mohammed* was a student in America when a Christian student became friends with him. Eventually, Mohammed accepted Jesus. He received theological training, went back home and started a seminary in the Middle East. That seminary trained pastors from Middle Eastern nations to plant churches. As a result, nations typically closed to traditional missions are now hearing the gospel. It all started when one Christian reached out to one international student. That’s the kind of impact you can have. And it all starts with making a friend.

Our desire is to equip churches and individuals with the training and resources they need to reach out to international students—future world leaders—with the love of Jesus Christ. We would be happy to help you get started in a greater world mission impact right from your own community.

If your heart is stirred by the tremendous need of reaching out to international students, and you are interested in finding local ISI staff with whom you can partner to reach international students by becoming a friendship partner, or by getting your church involved, please contact the ISI home office by emailing [email protected] or calling (US)1.800.ISI.TEAM.

*pseudonym

Indian-born, Dr. Douglas Shaw, once an international student himself, is the president/CEO of International Students, Inc. in Colorado Springs, Colorado. After receiving his initial education in Calcutta, Shaw came to the United States and earned both an M.A. and Ph.D. degrees. His professional experience includes ongoing work as a consultant, producer, and guest in various media endeavors, including television, radio, and multimedia. He travels extensively in the U.S., Europe, Asia, and the Far East and serves as a scholar in residence and guest lecturer on topics related to emerging world religions, the new world order, and systematic adaptations for the expanding dimensions of globalization.

Comments on this article

Amen brother! Churches can have a tremendous impact on the world without having to increase the missions budget! If your church is interested in beginning this type of ministry check out www.followone.org.

Laura :: 24 Aug 2010

Interacting with international students is something that everyone can do. Just one a year would make such a tremendous difference. Imagine how frightening it must be to travel to a strange place (some have never been on a plane before), eat strange food, and hear unfamiliar language spoken so fast. What a difference a friend makes.

Christine :: 4 Jun 2010