When asked why they became Christians, the number one reason given by international students was the love they received from their Christian friends. Christians know the importance of showing unconditional love, but many have a problem that inhibits their witness. Many are afraid of offending their friends by being too open about their faith in […]
Unconditional Friendship Read More »
As we were driving to campus one day, Amir asked me, “Why are you serving me and the other internationals on campus? What organization do you work for?” At some point, you will also be asked questions like these. As your relationships deepen with international students, there is a time and a place to explain
Presenting Yourself Read More »
The surest way to build a movement that lasts is to build it God’s way. And if we want to build a movement God’s way, we must begin with a foundation of prayer. Both history and God’s Word make it clear that prayer is more than preparation for the work–it is the work. Unfortunately, we
Spiritual movements come in all shapes and sizes, but they do have some things in common. Usually they follow a certain series of steps as they are beginning. These suggestions will help you as you attempt to provide leadership in launching a movement: 1. Cast vision with your potential leaders or newly appointed leaders, making sure that
Launching a Movement Read More »
“Why are you guys so nice?” This is one of the comments you will often hear when you meet new international students on campus. First impressions are important for everyone, but especially for international students. This excellent question gives you an opportunity to explain your motivation–the love of Christ. But, of course, not every international
First Steps in Reaching Internationals Read More »
It can be intoxicatingly exciting to meet a person from across the planet, who speaks a different native language than yours and has many different customs and beliefs. It can also be quite bewildering at times. How do you approach a person like this? How do you initiate a relationship? How do you build rapport?
Establishing Trust Read More »
Put yourself in their shoes. When was the last time you felt like an “outsider”? How did it feel when a new group that you entered quit inviting you to things? You likely experienced this a few times as a child or a teenager — especially if you moved to a new school where the
Entering Their World Read More »
There is much to learn about living in a new country. Newly-arrived international student may feel bewildered in America, so it is relatively easy for us to engage with them by helping to meet their tangible needs. And yet, there are many students and scholars who we don’t meet during their first year in America.
Engaging With Veteran Internationals Read More »
Even though international students are not mentioned specifically in the Bible, there are at least four Biblical reasons to reach out to them with the love and forgiveness of Jesus Christ. God’s heart is to bring the knowledge of Himself to all people. This is a theme throughout the Bible. The Old Testament. It was
Biblical Reasons to Reach Internationals Read More »
Here is a short list of the key felt needs of internationals and some ways that you can meet these needs. Realize that felt needs will vary somewhat among nationalities. Help International students need help in many areas that we, as hosts, can provide with a reasonable degree of effort. Airport pick up Temporary housing
5 Primary Felt Needs Read More »
