Global Migration, Diaspora and the Mission of God

Migration is a current global phenomenon. In mid-2024, the data showed over 300 million international migrants. In Sydney, nearly 40% of all residents were born in a country outside of Australia. God has a special place in His heart for the widow, the orphan, and the foreigner (Dt. 10:18). He uses migration to draw people to seek Him (Acts 17:26–27). Not only are migrants coming to faith around the world, but many of them become active in reaching their own people group and other people groups with their newfound faith. How can we join God in this work and mobilise our churches to be intentional about reaching the diaspora peoples in our communities?

In this unit, we will gain a better understanding of the forces that are creating an increasing population of migration, what unique needs diaspora communities possess, and how we can be intentional about ministering to diaspora peoples. We will examine the biblical, theological, and missiological foundations for diaspora ministry. We will also learn from specific and current examples of how churches and parachurch ministries are reaching diaspora communities in Australia, Europe and the U.S. based on recent research conducted in these three continents.