That's my ministry!
Are we done running programs that ought to be done through local churches?
This manifesto has no argument with the flow of resources for such good works as orphanages and Bible colleges. However, it is important to recognize that support for such institutions will be much reduced if run by national believers. It is also important that investment by national churches and national believers should be required. STILL, there is a larger issue – Sustainability!
I know of one Bible college in India that would rival many of our finest campuses. Perhaps marble is less expensive in the country that exports it and that explains some of the beauty of buildings on the campus. The real issue with this college and many other American funded institutions is what will happen if the American dollar is no longer available to sustain it.
How many have considered this aspect in their building projects and elaborate programs staffed by Americans? Context, culture, feasibility and sustainability should be taken into account wherever we participate. Building a building that cannot be sustained locally is a potential failure in the making. This does just apply to third world countries. Sustainability must always be an issue.
In many places, perhaps most, we have built a culture of dependency. Dependency on Americans being there to run things. Dependency on money from America to keep things going. When the American leaves or the money stops, the work collapses. One Kenyan leader spoke of this very scenario in his country. Some have reported that the window into Russia, that has now mostly closed, has little remaining for the flood of attention it received when the doors swung open. The Bible college in India will collapse if the funds are no longer available (and the Hindu government is seeking to cut off funds to Christian endeavors).
There is every reason to provide support for such institutions in the short-term. However, long-term preparation for local and national self-support should be a priority.
