Have We No Rights?—A Frank Discussion of the "Rights" of Missionaries

by Mabel Williamson, first published in 1957.

What does it mean to give up everything for the sake of Christ? In a world that teaches us to cling to our rights—our right to comfort, control, and personal security—what happens when we let them go? Can we embrace a life that forfeits the comforts of a ‘normal’ standard of living for the mission of the Gospel? Are we willing to surrender the desire to control our own health, privacy, and time if it means serving others in need? What does love look like when we sacrifice the right to a ‘normal’ romance or home life for a missions calling? Can we truly give up the right to choose our companions and trust God’s plan for our relationships? What about our desire to feel superior, to take charge—can we lay that down at Christ’s feet and follow His path of humility? And, most importantly, are we ready to follow the example of the Apostle Paul, who surrendered every claim to personal rights in his pursuit of God’s mission?

This book presents a challenging yet valuable read for all believers. However, it is especially relevant for those who feel called to the mission field. It offers insights that can help prepare them for the journey ahead, including challenges of the heart they may not yet foresee.

Get a physical copy: https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0DHJD6V6M

Chapters: (0:00) Introduction (0:44) 1 - Rights (4:51) 2 - The Right to What I Consider a Normal Standard of Living (18:05) 3 - The Right to the Ordinary Safeguards of Good Health (28:29) 4 - The Right to Regulate My Private Affairs As I Wish (34:34) 5 - The Right to Privacy (44:12) 6 - The Right to My Own Time (54:13) 7 - The Right to a Normal Romance, If Any (1:08:28) 8 - The Right to a Normal Home Life (1:25:55) 9 - The Right to Live With the People of My Choice (1:37:40) 10 - The Right to Feel Superior (1:51:14) 11 - The Right to Run Things (2:10:34) 12 - He Had No Rights