New Hope for Europe
Where is the church worldwide growing least? Where has there been the most rapid decline in Christian influence? What continent is known as “the graveyard of missions”? The answer, of course, is Europe.
By David Shibley
Europe is the birthplace of the Reformation. It has produced theological giants like Luther, Calvin, and Zwingli. In more recent times, even amidst war and hellish circumstances, this continent has given the church spiritual giants like Deitrich Bonhoeffer and evangelist Reinhard Bonnke. But for the most part Europe is spiritually dark and desolate. Secularism has strangled much of the Christian witness.
That’s why a recent conference in Budapest, Hungary was so hopeful and refreshing. Impact Now brought together almost 1000 young people from all over Europe. Their single agenda was a rebirth of world missions among Europe’s emerging leaders.
I was privileged to be one of the speakers, challenging these young disciples to re-evangelize Europe and help take the Gospel worldwide. During the conference, it was my privilege to fellowship with other speakers who are also outstanding missionary statesmen: Grant McClung (renowned missiologist), Greg Mundis (newly elected executive director of Assemblies of God World Missions), and George Verwer (founder of Operation Mobilization).
What a thrill it was to see all these young people press into worship and passionately respond to the call to be the first wave of a great new missions force to Europe and from Europe. I also made several new young friends – from Finland, France, and Germany – who I believe will be strategic for Global Advance’s future outreaches. These young men and women were some of the sharpest, most committed young disciples I’ve met in a long time.
This ministry to young leaders is one of the lesser known outreaches of Global Advance. We’re known for equipping pastoral leaders (frontline shepherds), business leaders, and women in leadership in underserved nations. For the last several years, I’ve also given a large portion of my time and focus to the next generation of Christian leaders – here in America and worldwide.
For ten years, I’ve mentored a few young leaders each year, downloading to them my heart, thinking, and passion for the fulfilling of the Great Commission. These Days with David are interactive. They can ask me anything. I share with them regarding personal integrity, focus, Christ-honoring leadership in today’s world, and insights large and small I’ve picked up in 45 years of ministry.
I’m also grateful that the Lord allows me to walk side-by-side with our son, Jonathan, as he serves as president of Global Advance. In many ways, he has surpassed me in leadership. His love for Christ is sterling. As founder, there are nuances of ministry and historical insights I share with him that make his leadership even stronger. I am humbled to assist him in this way.
I’m asking for your prayers as I train Teen Mania’s staff for two days next week. I’ll minister to them, sharing insights on starting well, serving well, and finishing well. At 61, my best ministry investments are trans-generational. Your prayers for this important outreach of Global Advance are appreciated. While God gives me life and breath, I’m committed to “telling to the generation to come the praises of the Lord, and His strength, and His wonderful works that He has done” (Psa. 78:4).
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David Shibley is Founder of Global Advance in Dallas, Texas, a world missions mobilization and training ministry.
