A paradigm for global mission leadership: the journey of the Wycliffe Global Alliance

Developing leaders with a global mindset—how globalization and the mission of God help shape the path forward.

The research question explored in this thesis concerns how globalization affects the missional journey of the Wycliffe Global Alliance and how this is influenced by paradigm shift theory applied to the missio Dei. Together, these contribute to a theoretical model for a new paradigm for global mission leadership.

Unique factors that inform the research and its methodologies include literature reviews, an analysis of Alliance practices and processes, and case studies from within the Alliance.

Important concepts that enlighten and enrich the study include: missio Dei and missional, globalization, and paradigm theory. Each contributes to understanding the journey of the Wycliffe Global Alliance. Furthermore, the journey is influenced by other ideas including the generous funding of God's mission; and the influences of spirituality, friendship, community and polycentrism in global mission leadership.

The research draws from broad sources and is presented through missiological and theological perspectives. The findings inform the paradigm, which is described with phrases, concepts and themes derived from the entire research. The paradigm also informs missional movements and organizational structures that can become global in their viewpoint and actions.

Adapted from the Abstract accompanying Kirk Franklin's Phd thesis.

Download and read the full thesis

Dr. Kirk Franklin served as Executive Director for the Wycliffe Global Alliance 2008-2020.

01/2025 Americas, global

'It speaks their language'

Course gives pastors and other leaders a new understanding of the church's role and responsibility in Bible translation

Read more

Americas, global

Special Report

A course developed by the Wycliffe Global Alliance, called 'Language and Translation in the Mission of God', is capturing the imagination of church leaders worldwide. A first-hand look at how the course impacted attendees in Bogotá, Colombia  How the Alliance and YWAM discovered common ground: 'I'm finally understanding that translation is about people' In Brazil, a dozen seminaries are using the course. And Deaf communities in that nation have found a deeper connection A funding opportunity for Alliance organisations and partners VIDEO SHORTS 'My theology was transformed' A Broader Perspective Impacting Hearts & Communities 'You have to come hear this!' Leaving a Legacy More Perspectives on the Course's Impact   If you are interested in learning how Language and Translation in the Mission of God might benefit your particular organisation and context, please email us at info@wycliffe.net and we will put you in touch with Bryan Harmelink, the Alliance’s Director for Collaboration. ••• Stories reported by Gwen Davies of the Wycliffe Global Alliance Communication and Prayer teams. Title illustration is AI-derived from a photo showing Sagrada Familia Cathedral in Barcelona, Spain. Original photo: Marc Ewell. Alliance organisations are welcome to download and use photos from these articles.

Read more

Americas, global

'I'm finally understanding that translation is about people'

How the Alliance and YWAM discovered common ground

Read more