In Volume IV, Dr. Patton begins with an assessment of worldviews, not only those of major world religions and folk religion, but also western modernism, post-modernism, and post-postmoderninsm. This is followed by an assessment of the major world religions, with a special emphasis on folk religion, which is followed by 40% of the world population, though they may be nominally Christian, Islam, Hindu, etc. There is also a section on humanism, atheism, and atheistic communism, which at one time dominated nearly a third of the world's population. Dr. Patton emphasizes that it is not only necessary to understand the worldview of the religion of the people whom we wish to reach, but also our own worldview, to avoid being "blindsided" by our own ethnocentrism. When possible, there are suggestions as to how to reach various groups with the gospel.

The goals of Volume V are to assist the missionary in successfully arriving on the mission field and remaining there with an effective ministry. Two major problems in recruitment and deployment of missionaries are the great length of time missionaries are on deputation, and the 50% attrition rate for return to the field after the first term of service. This volume addresses both issues. Beginning with the call of the missionary, there is a detailed discussion of deputation, and a smaller section on mission boards. Many missionaries are not able to successfully adapt to the foreign field. A substantial section of the book on cultural anthropology outlines many of the adjustments for the missionary, as well as the symptoms and treatment of culture shock. There is a short review of the importance of worldview in approaching evangelism, and a brief section on the missionary's adaptation upon returning to the USA.

In Volume II of Issues in Missiology, Dr. Patton addresses the subjects of Spiritual Warfare and The Spiritual Life of the Missionary. Spiritual warfare is a reality not only in the developing world, but also in ministries in "developed" countries. The missionary must be prepared to deal with these spiritual realities. All missionaries, to be effective, must walk in the Spirit. God works through the missionary to accomplish His goals as he yields to Him and works in His power and wisdom, and not in his own strength.

In "Issues In Missiology, Volume III," Dr. Patton relates his personal experiences in translating the entire Bible into the Sranantongo language. The translation has been used in radio and television broadcasts, two Bible Institutes, Bible commentaries, discipleship mater-ials, and tracts impacting the country of Suriname. He outlines the need for the correct foundational text, the proper methods of translation, and awareness of pitfalls that await the missionary translator. He concludes his book by appealing for many workers to reach the millions without the Word of God in their mother tongue, knowing the fields "are white already to harvest" (John 4:35).