Ministry Distinctives
The distinctives below describe the theological and practical commitments that set Adventures in Missions apart. These are published on adventures.org as the organization's operating convictions.
Interdenominationalism
AIM emphasizes making the main thing the main thing. The organization is tolerant of a variety of beliefs and practices within the mainstream of Christian practice. Where there is excess, AIM seeks to be a force for moderation.
Unity of the Body of Christ
AIM sees itself as a minister of reconciliation, seeking to bring pastors and churches together in ministry. The organization does not exalt certain gifts but understands the body of Christ needs them all to be balanced.
Partnership Through the Local Church
AIM believes the local church is God's vehicle for discipleship and seeks to work through it. They connect short-term missions groups with local churches around the world to further establish the Kingdom of God.
Mobilization and Disciple-Making
At its core, AIM is a discipleship organization. The desire is for God to use them to raise up a generation of radically committed disciples of Christ and send them out to the nations. AIM understands Jesus did not call people to say a prayer but to enter into a lifestyle. They balance boldness with love, looking for opportunities to be witnesses while ensuring follow-up.
Listening Prayer
AIM believes God wants to communicate with His people daily in a personal way. The practice is to ask, listen, and obey: asking God for guidance, listening for His response, and obeying Him to the best of one's ability. When He says go, they go. When He says stay, they stay. AIM holds that intimacy with the Father enhances the ability to recognize His voice, citing John 10:27: "My sheep know my voice."
The Church Without Walls
AIM goes to those needing ministry rather than expecting them to come. The Church is not a building or a denomination.
Ministry to the Poor, the Oppressed, and the Hopeless
AIM's ministry focus is on the lost sheep that society shuns. In a given city, they will go to the darkest and most hopeless place first.
Innovation and Failing Fast
AIM maintains a fast-paced environment that stays in sync with changes in the world. The organization is constantly innovating to improve programs and operations. When they fail, they fail fast, fix mistakes, and move on.
Empowering People to Go and Grow Something
AIM's programs intentionally empower participants to be part of something that matters. The goal is to cultivate long-term, global change in people and projects that will continue long after the work is done. AIM holds a kingdom-of-God paradigm bigger than just the reach of its own ministry and encourages participants to adopt the same mindset.
People Before Projects
As a discipleship organization, AIM highly values people. Although projects are necessary and exciting, decisions are made with people as the primary concern. All projects should empower the people working on them as well as benefit those included in them.