a contextual missiology of the spirit - eTheses Repository ...

churches were established in thirteen states of north India during his 42 years of
ministry. This means that at least two new churches were formed every month. 63
Donald McGavran wrote a note of appreciation about the fascinating growth of
FFCI churches in Mathews’ Bible, ‘Donald McGavran, with high appreciation for
the church multiplying which Rev. Thomas Mathews is doing in Udaipur. The
Garasiyas and Bhils are loved by God, Christ intended for them to become
followers of the Saviour, and a liberated people.’ 64
Moreover, Mathews thought that there should be an emphasis on cross-cultural
mission in north India when he entered into Christian service, and he himself was
a cross-cultural missionary from south India. However, he recognized the
importance of equipping the natives rather than focusing on cross-cultural
missionaries. He found that native missionaries are more effective, fruitful and
acceptable in north India, and that is why he formed NMM. Furthermore, although
hundreds of churches were established all over north India under the banner of
FFCI, Mathews gave freedom to each church to function in its own cultural and
indigenous way. He wanted churches to be self-governing with a freedom to raise
funds, train leaders, construct buildings, and using indigenous means in worship.
Community Development was another important feature of his vision. As a
conventional Pentecostal missionary Mathews was not interested in the social
aspects of mission in the initial years of his ministry. Nevertheless, he became
63
This does not mean that Mathews himself had established these churches, but his vision and
motivation were key factors behind the growth of FFCI.
64
Thonnakkal, Marubhoomiyile Aposthalan, 3. MacGavran made this note of appreciation in
Mathews’ Bible on 17 December 1980.
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