This study is to grasp the understandings behind the work of Donald A. McGavran, who left a significant mark on evangelical mission in the 20th century since his birth in the late 19th century,
and to criticize his thoughts of mission. He began his missionary works when after the colonial era, evangelical missions were contracted by the ecumenical camp emphasizing social service
and social action. From the biblical perspective, he stressed the importance of evangelism, church planting, and the church as a significant means to realize God’s mission. In his missiology, mission involves communicating the Gospel to unbelievers, persuading them to accept Jesus Christ as their Lord and Savior, and helping them become responsible members of the church and grow into more mature Christians. Although somewhat criticized, his two terms, discipling and perfecting, represent his thought of mission. The concept of church growth around conversion also supports his beliefs. Despite his great exploits, however, his understanding of mission was controversial in some ways. Theologically, his attitude was very determined and conservative. For this reason, many arguments and criticisms were arisen around his ideas. He stressed evangelism, church planting, and church-centric mission, whereas he had a negative attitude towards social service and social action, which were supported by the ecumenical camp. From the perspective of wholistic mission, it is natural that his thoughts be criticized in that he seems to lean towards one side. In other words, he lost his sense of balance. If possible, however, it should be considered that McGavran’s thoughts arose from concrete mission fields. His opinions were brought up to argue against the distorted ways of mission that spread in those days.

• 최동규(서울신학대학교, 교회성장학) | Choi Dongkyu