Christians Quote by Mark Twain
““Almost every convert runs the risk of catching our civilization... I compassionate missionary, leave China! come home and convert these Christians!””
About This Quote
Source Speech: 1880s lecture on missionary work, United States
The quote warns that missionaries may unintentionally spread their own cultural biases, turning conversion into cultural imperialism.
In simple terms: Missionaries can impose their own culture while converting others.
Key Takeaway
Beware of cultural bias when sharing beliefs.
Themes
cultural imperialism
missionary work
ethics
colonialism
Mood
reflective
critical
Type
ethical
philosophical
When to use this quote
- international aid
- religious outreach
- educational programs
- cross‑cultural training
Key Concepts
cultural diffusion
power dynamics
identity
faith
Questions to Reflect On
- How can missionaries respect local cultures?
- What safeguards prevent cultural domination?
A Different Perspective
It may overlook genuine spiritual motivations of converts.
![“[O]ur primary job as Christians is to love people, and we can't love from behind a barricade. But we have other God-given responsibilities too—to fight against those who make unjust decrees, rob the needy, and deprive the poor of their rights. We can make political the things that are political…” quote by Alisa Harris](https://sms4smile.com/quotes/img-quotes/733/alisa-harris-43994_christianity_o-ur-primary-job-as-christians-is-to-lov_16440.jpg)
