You are sensing God's leading you to serve in missions. His commission to share the gospel with "every creature" is challenging your life. Now a "zillion questions" are flashing through your mind. You might be asking . . .
Q. - Is the relationship with my local church important?
A. - This is not just important . . . it's ABSOLUTELY vital! To the church God gives the authority and responsibility for world evangelization. Ultimately you go out not only as a representative but also an extension of your local church in a cross-cultural ministry. Your pastor and church members must be convinced of your readiness for missionary service.
Q. - Is EBM really serious about this?
A. - Dead serious! Not only must the home church submit a recommendation indicating their full confidence in you, but often they will provide counsel to EBM in every key area of your future ministry. Therefore, before contacting EBM, make sure you have sought the counsel of your pastor and church.
Q. - Why then does EBM exist?
A. - Today we live in a complicated world. EBM exists to serve your church in sending you out into a world marked by a myriad of political, cultural and economic challenges. Such a partnership between you and your church and EBM will be invaluable in making a smooth transition to your new ministry.
Q. - What about Citizenship?
A. - Those who are citizens of the USA or Canada may apply to EBM for missionary service. A person who is a citizen of a country other than USA or Canada may also apply provided that he/she is a legal immigrant who has in hand a "green card" and /or has applied for USA citizenship.
Q. - Once I have the backing of my church, what then?
A. - Become well acquainted with the EBM's doctrinal position and policies as well as with information concerning your projected ministry (all available from the home office). Completing the Missionary Service Questionnaire will help us get to know you. On this form, you can request an application which will "start the wheels moving" to get you on the field.
Q. - What kind of formal training does EBM require?
A. - For most ministries, Bible college or institute training is required. There may be some exceptions to this depending on the nature of the ministry and your desired length of service.
Q.- Do I have to attend any special classes or seminars?
A. - Yes, everyone who is accepted as a candidate for career missions is required to attend two intensive Missionary Training Institutes (MTI). These classes cover various aspects of missionary life and service.
Q. - When should I apply and how long does it take?
A.- As soon as possible. Because of the thoroughness of the career application forms, we suggest that you begin the application process at least six months prior to the next scheduled Missionary Training Institute (MTI), although it is possible to shorten this time. A home office administrator will "walk you through" the entire procedure. Questions can be sent to firststeps@ebm.org MAP (Missionary Apprenticeship Applications) take less time because of the nature and length of service time, however, sooner is always better.
Q. - How are appointees selected?
A. - After careful evaluation of the application, personal references, home church reference and Board interviews, the EBM Board appoints those individuals who demonstrate readiness for missionary service. We invite your pastor or representative to walk through your Board interviews with you. (Those who complete the Missions Initiatives applications (MAP) do not have the Board interviews.)
Q. - If I am appointed, then what?
A. - You will receive the needed help and encouragement to begin your pre-field ministry. Again, your church and pastor will play a vital role in helping to thrust you onto your field of service.
Seeing those who meet the above qualifications become a part of our EBM family is a privilege. EBM exists to SERVE our Lord by serving you and your church. If you have additional questions, just ask.
Questions/Checklist:
- Do I have the needed experience and education?
- Have I sought the counsel of my pastor?
- Does my home church recognize my readiness for service?
- Do I have the needed information from Evangelical Baptist Missions?
- Have I carefully read EBM's Doctrinal Statement?
- Do all significant parties believe that affiliation with EBM is God's leading/
If these areas have been considered and affirmed, you are READY for the application process!
