I took the Perspectives on the World Christian Movement course in 1993, and by 1997 we were on our way to the edges, literally. We landed on the shores of the Caspian Sea, seemingly on the edge of the world, with big dreams of planting Kazakh-led churches.

The USSR had fallen in 1991, opening hidden peoples and secret cities to the rest of the world. Aktau wasn’t on any maps outside of the Soviet Union. We had moved to a truly pioneer setting— sort of. We found Russian churches in the city open to reaching Kazakhs. We should not have been surprised God was already working there. Nonetheless, God used our team to start something new; lives were changed, and the impact is still reverberating today.

Almost 30 years later, what has changed in God’s mission to glorify himself at the edges? Do we still have pioneer settings? Should we still prioritize them? Are any people groups hidden from maps today? Where are the edges?

Come on a journey with us through this issue and decide for yourself. God has done amazing things over the past 50 years. The proportion of the population with no gospel witness has plummeted even though the number of people on earth has doubled.

Some old categories remain—Hindu, Muslim, and Buddhist—but virtual technology means we must add newly formed groups as well. These new groups are hidden in plain sight. Do you know to whom I’m referring? Come along and find out.

But around the next corner you will need to strap in tightly. Perhaps the way we think about religion is part of the problem keeping us from getting to the edges. Are you willing to reflect on and even challenge your foundational religious paradigms?

In addition, maybe the way we deal with finances—bitcoin anyone?—is keeping doors closed to unreached groups. Clearly, this is a hot topic with much to consider, but before we close, let’s step into the zone of listening to God’s Spirit for potentially unorthodox guidance as we engage this brave new world.

Opening these pages could bring the adrenaline and whiplash of a mighty roller coaster if you are willing to have your assumptions challenged and your lenses adjusted.

Hidden worlds await, so grab a cup of your favorite beverage and sit in a comfortable chair; discovery awaits!

New Feature: We are adding yet another new feature in this issue. Kody Friesen, an artist who spent many years among the unreached, has created a coloring page based on our Edges theme. Check it out on page 46. If you prefer normal paper, go to the MF website and print it. Lord willing, we will be including a coloring page in each issue moving forward. Adult coloring books are popular, so feel free to indulge yourself for some stress relief, but we are happy for you to give it to your children or grandchildren as well!

May you know the love of God and may it move you to edges!