International Students and Small Groups
by David HookerPause for just a moment and imagine with me what a small group might be capable of accomplishing for the Kingdom. Imagine a small group being used by God to reach an unreached people group. Imagine a small group being used by God to reach a future world leader. Imagine a small group being used by God to prepare future missionaries. Just imagine! But don't just imagine. Just do it!
Your small group can more than imagine any of the above by simply reaching out to international students. Let me suggest some ideas of how your group can get started in expressing Christ's love to the nations.
First, introduce the idea of building friendships with internationals as a mission focus of your group. Next, pray about what God might have you do. Once your group has committed itself to this mission, covenant together to each work on intentionally befriending an international student. Pray that God would match each of you with someone compatible.
Begin to brainstorm on ways to meet internationals:
- In class, simply invite an international out for a coke or tea or coffee
- Contact the International Student Club; go to a special event they host
- Contact the Foreign Student Advisor or Office
- Contact the English as a Second Language Department
** We suggest that men meet men and women meet women to avoid cultural misunderstandings that can occur in relationships.
To understand how to develop caring international friendships, you might want to spend one session together as a group reading Terrell Smith's article, "International Student Friendships." Or you could watch and discuss InterVarsity's "Friends" video. You may also want to use Operation World by Patrick Johnstone to read about and pray for the countries your friends represent.
Early on your group can get together with your friends for an international pot luck party. Ask each international to bring a favorite traditional dish to share. You might also ask them to bring music in their native language. And if you really want some fun, suggest to your friends that they demonstrate a form of traditional dance! Be ready to reciprocate. Try playing board games or card games. Ask them to teach you a game from their culture.
Once you have built trust with your international friends, you can begin to discuss the topic of religious or spiritual beliefs. A great way to learn about other religions is by inviting your friends to come and explain to your group the nature and content of their faith and belief system.
Remember to be hospitable, offer refreshments and listen to learn, not argue. These activities and more create a wonderful atmosphere for sharing the meaning of the Christian faith.
Just imagine how a small group can be used by God to reach out to the nations! Then, just do it!
By David Hooker, InterVarsity International Student Specialist, Clovis, CA
Unless otherwise noted, all materials on the urbana.org web site are Copyright InterVarsity Christian Fellowship / USA. All rights reserved.
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