Good men are sending the Bible to all parts of the world…
““Good men are sending the Bible to all parts of the world. Sermons are preached on behalf of fellows-creatures who are perishing in regions known only to us in name. And here, within reach of comparatively the slightest exertion; here, not many miles from churches and schools, and all the moral influences abounding in Christian society; here, in a country endowed with every advantage that God can bestow, are perishing, body and soul, our own countrymen: perishing too from disease, starvation and intemperance, and all the evils incidents to their unhappy condition. White men, Christian men, are driving them back; rooting out their very names from the face of the earth. Ah! these men can seek the country of the Sioux when money is to be gained: but how few care for the sufferings of the Dahcotahs! how few would give a piece of money, a prayer, or even a thought, towards their present and eternal good.””
About This Quote
This interpretation was drafted with AI assistance. It is one reading of the quote, not the author's own explanation.
Missionary work is portrayed as a moral imperative, yet it raises concerns about cultural exploitation and neglect of local suffering.
In simple terms: Missionary duty vs. exploitation of locals.
Key Takeaway
Balance aid with respect for local autonomy.
Themes
missionary work
ethics
colonialism
humanitarian aid
cultural sensitivity
Mood
critical
empathetic
concerned
Type
Bible:1
Good men:1
Within reach:0
Christian Men:1
Men Christian:0
Sending Bible:1
Countrymen Perishing:1
When to use this quote
- religious outreach
- non‑profit work
- international development
- human rights advocacy
Key Concepts
moral philosophy
postcolonial critique
social justice
Questions to Reflect On
- How can missionaries avoid cultural imperialism?
- What responsibilities accompany aid?
A Different Perspective
Aid can become paternalistic if not reflective.