A Study to Determine the Level of Awareness of Microlending as Missions by Weekly Congregants in a Variety of Church Affiliations

Abstract

This research study determines the level of awareness of microlending as missions by weekly congregants in a variety of Church affiliations. The problem addressed was that of worldwide poverty and its affect on the lives of the poor emotionally, economically, and physically. Literature reviewed to support the problem of poverty focused on three areas: the Church mission, microenterprise development (MED) and poverty itself. Research of the Church mission showed several possible causes among Church leaders and congregants that influenced their awareness of poverty and the poor. Failures within Church leadership were inaccurate Biblical worldviews, leadership autonomy, low missions priority and lack of teaching on the need for financial giving to missions. The failures attributed to further problem issues among congregants. Congregants were unfamiliar with Biblical perspectives on the care of the poor, and the need to participate in giving tithes and offerings. Research of Christian and secular MED revealed a worldwide effort and [instruments] for financial support and holistic care of the poor. This included the affects of globalization on microenterprise development. Research on poverty revealed Biblical mandates for taking care of the poor, organizations dedicated to such purpose and their activities, and a deeper understanding of poverty in the world today who is affected and how. The methodology presented original research of 24 respondents and their level of awareness of microlending in missions to care for the poor. The data analysis provided research details and comparison to the literature reviewed. The online survey of Evangelical Christians was conducted in Washington State through QuestionPro.com, included questions regarding devotional life, Church affiliation, mission awareness, and demographical information. Data reveled that the majority of respondents were: from Foursquare Churches, male, white, incomes above $100k, with an interest in short term missions. They attend Church weekly, have a strong devotional life, and financially give to missions. The results showed half of Evangelicals surveyed had an awareness of microlending as mission. The outcome showed a similarity to research by Barna on congregant’s and Church leader’s Biblical beliefs, personal devotion, mission awareness, and their awareness of poverty. Conclusions and recommendations for raising awareness of the poor and microlending as missions among congregants were also included.