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Unfortunately, the picture that emerges in this instance is of an enthusiastic missionary group unprepared for contingencies in a dangerous, often lawless place. Yet if this devastating incident forces the dynamic Korean missions movement to refine its strategies, much good can still come.

On the other hand, we can learn much about missionary passion, among many other things, from believers in Asia, Africa, and Latin America. And one lesson they teach is this: We cannot allow bad publicity or remorse over ill-considered missionary methods to suck the life out of our missionary risk-taking. We do well to remember that missions will never be popular in the world's eyes, even in a great missionary-sending country such as South Korea.

As Jesus said, "Blessed are you when people insult you, persecute you and falsely say all kinds of evil against you because of me. Rejoice and be glad, because great is your reward in heaven, for in the same way they persecuted the prophets who were before you."

Further, let us not forget the common paraphrase of a Tertullian quote: "The blood of the martyrs is the seed of the church." We pray that the blood shed by the Korean Christians will work a similar miracle in Afghanistan. Whoever thinks we can practice a safe and moderate Christianity is a fool. That's not the faith that has been delivered to us. Peter said: "Dear friends, do not be surprised at the painful trial you are suffering, as though something strange were happening to you."

The areas where the spiritual and physical needs are greatest are often the most dangerous. The easy pioneer missions fields are gone. We might as well get used to it—and press on.

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Our full-coverage section on Korean missions includes an interview with Park Eun-jo and

The Pulse: Short-Term Troubles | Lessons from the South Korean kidnappings in Afghanistan. (November 7, 2007)

In the Aftermath of a Kidnapping | The South Korean missionary movement seeks to mature without losing its zeal. (November 7, 2007)

Costly Commitment | In wake of abductions, Korean Christians take heavy criticism. (August 13, 2007)

South Korean Politicians Blame U.S. for Taliban Hostages | Korean officials seek direct negotiations with kidnappers. (August 3, 2007)

After Taliban Kills Two Hostages, South Korea Pleads for Compromise | As another deadline passes, Taliban abductors make threats and Afghanistan warns of military action. (August 2, 2007)

Weblog has links to more news in the aftermath of the hostage crisis.

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November 2007, Vol. 51, No. 11