Stephanas: A New Testament Example of Frontier Member Care

Member care is not a modern invention of missions agencies but has its roots in the New Testament. The author argues that Stephanas was “called by God” to provide needed “service” which “relieved anxiety” for Paul. Although Paul, the apostle and frontier cross cultural worker, was deeply loved and spiritually mature, these factors were insufficient to ease his pain. If the Apostle Paul needed to be cared for, it is no shame for cross-cultural workers, whether they are from China or any other country, to admit the need for member care. The church needs to support such a ministry and the caregivers who are called to provide it. There should be no need of a “lengthy defence for member care.”