Donald McGavran, His Early Life and Ministry

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Donald McGavran, His Early Life and Ministry

An Apostolic Vision for Reaching the Nations

by: Vern Middleton (Author)

This book is a compelling biography of Donald A. McGavran, the founder of the Church Growth Movement. Drawing from primary sources and personal interviews, Middleton presents a deeply researched account of McGavran’s formative years, missionary service in India, and the development of his missiological insights. Born to missionary parents in India, McGavran’s early experiences shaped his lifelong passion for evangelism and contextualized ministry. His innovative ideas challenged traditional mission models, emphasizing measurable church growth, the importance of reaching unreached peoples, and the strategic stewardship of missionary efforts.

The book captures not only McGavran’s theological convictions but also his practical strategies, educational contributions, and unwavering commitment to the Great Commission. It serves as an essential resource for missionaries, church leaders, and students of missiology seeking to understand the roots and impact of one of the twentieth century’s most influential evangelical thinkers.

Endorsements

When I was young, one summer in Mexico City I read Church Growth in Mexico, one of Donald McGavran's first books. What a revelation. He described “ten Mexicos”—Mexico City, Liberal Cities, Conservative Cities, Tight Little Towns, Roman Ranchos, Revolutionary Ranchos and Ejidos, Indian Tribes, Tabasco, Northern Border Country, and Oscar’s Masses (named for researcher Oscar Lewis). This analytical approach, this categorizing, this managerial perspective, was a breath of fresh air for me. I glimpsed how to begin making missiological sense of the maelstrom. I have been grateful ever since.

Miriam Adeney, PhDAssociate Professor of World Christian Studies, Seattle Pacific University Teaching Fellow, Regent College
Donald McGavran was one of the most important missiologists of the twentieth century, and no one is better equipped to write his biography than Vern Middleton. This work carefully traces the development of McGavran's thought from that of a traditional missionary who operated mission institutions, to a bold thinker and innovator who challenged both ecumenical and evangelical groups to discover new paradigms in mission.

Paul E. Pierson, PhDDean Emeritus, School of Intercultural Studies, Fuller Theological Seminary