Why Murdered Missionary John Chau's Life and Legacy Divides: Reckless vs. Heroic Attempt to Live Out Great Commission

The tragic story surrounding John Chau sparks a plethora of debate when it comes to the morality, behaviors, and goals of Christian missions. Chau was a 26-year-old missionary when he was killed by the Sentinelese tribe after he traveled to North Sentinel Island in India, an isolated region housing the uncontacted and unreached people group.

As Christian Post assistant editor Leah MarieAnn Klett recently noted, Chau's attempt to bring the Gospel to the group — a quest that led to his murder — has been praised by some and derided by others.

"Some, both in the Evangelical and secular arenas, condemned Chau’s journey as a reckless one that reflected deep levels of ignorance, pride and cultural superiority," Klett wrote. "Others applauded his commitment to the Great Commission, the biblical mandate to reach all nations with the Gospel, despite great personal risk."

Listen to Klett break down these issues on today's "The Inside Story" podcast.