Missionary accounts like Through Gates of Splendor motivated a whole generation of young people to consider missions.

Books inspire. They provide an understanding of what it is like to live a life given to sharing the gospel in another culture. They provide models for a future generation to follow.

However, there is a dearth of books on the lives of tentmakers. Working Abroad with Purpose is a welcome addition to the library of contemporary tentmaker stories.

“… imagine millions of ordinary believers fulfilling the Great Commission right where they have come to faith or later settled, and tens of thousands of them under the guidance of the Holy Spirit fulfilling the commission cross-culturally in foreign lands, all without financial burden upon their home churches.”

The Glenn Deckert did not just imagine it. He lived it. In this book he shares from his experiences in the hope that others will catch the vision and follow in his footsteps.

“Drawing on decades of living and working in several countries as a tentmaking follower of Jesus Christ, I delight in sharing the world of possibilities lying before those who contemplate venturing abroad as tentmakers.

“In today’s global economy, tentmaking is a career option too often left unexamined by the upcoming generation of Christian workers and by Christians who are already employed outside their own country.”

This book covers key areas of competence needed for the tentmaker (regardless of career field) illustrated from his own experience. Deckert shares tips on things he did which worked, AND those that didn’t. Both are important lessons to take to the field.

The personal accounts and stories bring the reader from the CONCEPT of tentmaking to seeing the REALITY of sharing one’s faith in a natural way. It is much easier to identify with stories than abstract concepts.

Working Abroad brings the tentmaking experience to life and answers many questions prospective tentmakers may have.

Questions about:

• Identity
• Roles
• Day-to-day activities
• Work and faith
• Contact with authorities
• Family education and health issues
• Relationships with one’s home church
• Developing a strategic plan
• Dealing with crises and the unexpected

And more, are all covered in this small book.

It is a quick read, well worth your time.

“It is my hope that you will grasp the concept of carrying your vocational skills abroad for strategic positioning to advance God’s kingdom,” writes Deckert. 

Order here:  https://www.workingabroadwithpurpose.com/

By Phill Sandahl