Someone might counter that they actually do speak the language. How well do you speak it? Communicating spiritual truths and talking about Biblical concepts like God, sin, and atonement requires more vocabulary and understanding than simply what you need for buying fruit in the local market. Some people might want to use an interpreter. This sounds attractive, but unfortunately, is more complicated than it sounds. If you don't speak the language, how will you know what the interpreter is saying? What is the interpreter's worldview?
Because it is impossible to learn a language, understand a culture, and analyze a worldview in two weeks, or two months, Rachel and I have chosen a different option. Instead of being a trip, missions is our career. We plan to move to Brazil and move into a village of people who do not yet understand the gospel. It will take years to learn the language, culture, and beliefs of the people and then present the truth to them by teaching them the Bible in their own language. We, along with our co-workers, will start teaching in Genesis and bring out key themes and stories throughout the Old Testament. It will culminate in the fulfillment of the Law - the death, burial, and resurrection of Christ. If a church is born and there are new believers, we want them to grow in their faith and, eventually, for church leaders to be developed so that they can function on their own. We get excited thinking about such a people group one day having a mature church that can reach out to others who don't know God.
Now it should be easier to see why a short trip would be inadequate for such a goal. It will take many years to get there, and only with God's enablement.
If you want to read more about our ministry, please check out the articles on our Views page and the information on our FAQ page. Also, we would love to hear from you or visit you in person. If you want us to share in your church or small group, we would welcome the opportunity.
Thanks for reading!