Operational Distinctives

The FIM approach to ministry finds expression in our operational motto, “Flexibility in Ministry with Integrity and Accountability.” The church, the missionary, and FIM all have significant roles in making this work.

  • We offer flexibility – Freedom to obey God’s call

    FIM allows missionaries to discern God’s leading in their lives. It further allows them to move quickly and decisively to seize opportunity for the cause of Christ.

  • We value integrity – Life and service by God’s principles

    FIM screens for missionaries who possess biblical integrity. Missionaries who possess this quality can be trusted to follow God’s leading and act on it responsibly.

  • We facilitate accountability – Godly counsel and oversight

    FIM holds its missionaries accountable on the basis of a detailed Ministry Plan endorsed by their Key Accountability Partner (KAP) church (sometimes known as the “sending church”). Following a New Testament model, we place a high value on interaction with each missionary’s KAP church as the progress of the ministry requires it.

    Salient features of FIM accountability are:

    • Annual signed affirmations of the FIM Doctrinal Statement
    • Quarterly and annual reports that measure ministry progress against goals
    • Regular financial oversight and reporting
    • On-field evaluations by Mission leadership
    • Periodic Ministry Progress Reviews conducted with missionaries in the Home Office

The Role of the Local Church

The church, missionary and agency partner together to successfully complete ministry.

  • To identify, cultivate, and launch those called by God.
  • To prayerfully champion each missionary’s ministry.
  • To foster regular communication with the missionary.
  • To provide ministry and personal accountability for each missionary.

The Role of the Missionary

  • To follow the leading of the Holy Spirit.
  • To faithfully serve according to the agreed upon doctrinal and ministry statements.
  • To communicate with supporters faithfully.
  • To inspire others to follow in their footsteps in obedience to Christ.

The Role of FIM

  • To promote the cause of missions in every available setting.
  • To assist missionaries to fulfill their call by supporting and reinforcing them.
  • To assist churches in fulfilling their missionary vision.