Are you a parent or grandparent grappling with the idea of your child or grandchild pursuing a missionary calling? Do you find yourself filled with questions and concerns about how to support them effectively? In this episode of The Missions Podcast, our host Scott Dunford engages in a thought-provoking conversation with Tori Haverkamp, founder ofContinue reading “Missionary Mamaâs Survival Guide: Advice from Tori Haverkamp for Parents and Grandparents”
Episode Archives
The Holy Privilege of Raising MKs
In this weekâs episode, Tori Haverkamp, author of The Missionary Mama’s Survival Guide, shares why raising missionary kids on the field is not an inconvenience but an immense privilege and blessing. Believe in our mission? Support the show at missionspodcast.com/support. The Missions Podcast is a ministry resource of ABWE. Learn more at abwe.org. Want to ask aContinue reading “The Holy Privilege of Raising MKs”
What Weâre Up To
No new episode this week, but stay tuned for an exciting series of exclusives that we captured while at the Radius Conference at the end of June. See you next week! Also: Cloud of Witnesses is an upcoming podcast coming to the ABWE network. Learn more at cloudofwitnessespodcast.com. Believe in our mission? Support the show at missionspodcast.com/support.Continue reading “What Weâre Up To”
Responding to the âNo Shortcut to Successâ Controversy
In this thought-provoking episode of The Missions Podcast, Scott and Alex delve into a critical review of Matt Rhodes’ book, No Shortcut to Success: A Manifesto for Modern Missions, followed by Rhodes’ response to the review. While they agree on various key points, such as the importance of deep language learning and solid biblical training,Continue reading “Responding to the âNo Shortcut to Successâ Controversy”
About That âNo Shortcutsâ ReviewâŠ
This week, Scott and Alex wrestle with the critical review of Matt Rhodes’ book, No Shortcut to Success: A Manifesto for Modern Missions, followed by Rhodes’ response to the review. Be sure to tune in. Believe in our mission? Support the show at missionspodcast.com/support. The Missions Podcast is a ministry resource of ABWE. Learn more at abwe.org.Continue reading “About That âNo Shortcutsâ Review⊔
Apologetics in a Chaotic World
How should believers defend their faith in an increasingly hostile culture? And which apologetic methodology is most faithful to the spirit of Scripture? Join Alex Kocman as he explores the controversial topic of apologetics in a supposedly post-Christian context, exploring the Christianâs marching orders in 1 Peter 3:15 and evaluating classical, evidentialist, and presuppositional apologeticsContinue reading “Apologetics in a Chaotic World”
What Romans 1 Means for Apologetics Today
Coming up this Sunday: how can missionaries do apologetics in todayâs chaotic cultural landscape? What apologetic methodologies are most faithful to Scripture? Alex Kocman explores. Believe in our mission? Support the show at missionspodcast.com/support. The Missions Podcast is a ministry resource of ABWE. Learn more at abwe.org. Want to ask a question or suggest a topic? Email alex@missionspodcast.com.
China and the Future of Missions
In this episode of The Missions Podcast, tensions between the United States and China take center stage as Scott and Alex delve into the geopolitical rivalryâs impact on Christian workers in both countries with a world-class expert. With de-globalization and changing trends on the horizon, they explore the challenges missionaries face and offer strategies forContinue reading “China and the Future of Missions”
We Canât Be So Risk-Averse That We Do Nothing
Coming up, an expert guest sheds light on the unavoidable risks faced by missionaries in their work, particularly in the context of the rising tensions between the United States and China. Join us as we uncover the challenges, resilience, and unwavering faith required to navigate these risks and fulfill the call of spreading the gospel.Continue reading “We Canât Be So Risk-Averse That We Do Nothing”
Exposing Pastoral Blindspots: Paul Davis on Common Missions Mistakes
In this episode of the Missions Podcast, hosts Alex and Scott engage in a compelling conversation with ABWE President Paul Davis, delving into the blindspots that pastors often encounter when it comes to missions. Paul shares his observations and experiences from working with global teams and local churches, highlighting recurring areas where mission teams andContinue reading “Exposing Pastoral Blindspots: Paul Davis on Common Missions Mistakes”
What We Get Wrong About Accountability
Coming up: ABWE President Paul Davis joins us to explore a number of blindspots pastors and other church leaders have in dealing with their missionaries, including the complicated web of relationships involved in accountability. Believe in our mission? Support the show at missionspodcast.com/support. The Missions Podcast is a ministry resource of ABWE. Learn more at abwe.org. WantContinue reading “What We Get Wrong About Accountability”
Why the Ascension Matters for Missionaries: Tim Bertolet
We explore the fascinating and often overlooked connections between the Book of Hebrews and the atonement of Jesus. Hebrews scholar Dr. Tim Bertolet, navigates the relationship between the cross, resurrection, and the ascension, particularly highlighting the significance of Jesusâ ascension for those well-versed in the power of the cross and resurrection but less familiar withContinue reading “Why the Ascension Matters for Missionaries: Tim Bertolet”
The Cross in Context? Exploring Atonement and Contextualization with Brad Vaughn
Engage in a thought-provoking continuation of The Missions Podcast as we delve into the ideas presented by Brad Vaughn in his book The Cross in Context. Join hosts Alex Kocman and Scott Dunford as they explore various perspectives on the relationship between Christianity and Western culture, the diverse metaphors of sin and Christâs atonement, andContinue reading “The Cross in Context? Exploring Atonement and Contextualization with Brad Vaughn”
Is All Theology âContextualâ?
This week, weâre continuing our discussion with Brad Vaughn. Subscribe now and stay tuned for a hard-hitting sit-down about contextualization, biblical theology, and the nature of the atonement through an honor-shame lens. Believe in our mission? Support the show at missionspodcast.com/support. The Missions Podcast is a ministry resource of ABWE. Learn more at abwe.org. Want to askContinue reading “Is All Theology âContextualâ?”
Saving Godâs Face? A Dialogue With Brad Vaughn on Honor and Shame
Dive into a thought-provoking conversation with Brad Vaughn, previously known as Jackson Wu. With his book Saving God’s Face as the backdrop, we explore the concept of sin as a violation of God’s honor, the overlap between Chinese and biblical culture, and the distinct differences in how Westerners and Asians understand honor and shame. PrepareContinue reading “Saving Godâs Face? A Dialogue With Brad Vaughn on Honor and Shame”
Honor, Shame, and the Atonement
Missiologist and author Brad Vaughan, also known under his pseudonym Jackson Wu, shares his perspectives this week on honor, shame, and the nature of Christâs deathâincluding some opinions that have proven controversial in both missiological and theological circles. Believe in our mission? Support the show at missionspodcast.com/support. The Missions Podcast is a ministry resource ofContinue reading “Honor, Shame, and the Atonement”
Spiritual Warfare in the News: A Missions Perspective
Headlines across the world are telling a single story: spiritual forces of darkness want to dominate the nations. How should Christians read global news with an awareness of Christ as Lord and a missionary heart? Alex Kocman and Scott Dunford navigate some of the top stories and seek to model a Christian response to worldContinue reading “Spiritual Warfare in the News: A Missions Perspective”
Spiritual Warfare in the News
How should Christians discuss world events with a missionary mindset? Scott and Alex discuss in this weekâs upcoming show. Believe in our mission? Support this podcast. The Missions Podcast is a ministry resource of ABWE. Learn more at abwe.org. Want to ask a question or suggest a topic? Email alex@missionspodcast.com.
How to Raise Men for the Church and the Mission Field: Ray Brandon
Are churches and missions organizations going about developing leaders the wrong way? And how do parents raise their sons to become pastors and missionaries? In this episode of the podcast, Pastor Ray Brandon of North Bridge Church in Kalamazoo, Michigan and Director of Church Planting with EveryEthne discusses the challenges and joys of raising upContinue reading “How to Raise Men for the Church and the Mission Field: Ray Brandon”
Menâs Role in the Mission
What role should godly men play in the mission of God? Ray Brandon, director of church planting with EveryEthne, explains in this weekâs upcoming conversation on biblical masculinity and leadership development. Believe in our mission? Support this podcast. The Missions Podcast is a ministry resource of ABWE. Learn more at abwe.org. Want to ask a question orContinue reading “Menâs Role in the Mission”
What About Orality? Jonathan Worthington Answers
As Christians, we hold the Bible in the highest esteem. But what happens when the people we are trying to reach have a primarily oral cultureâhow do we ensure that the message of Scripture is accurately transmitted and understood in cultures where literacy is not the norm? In this podcast interview with Jonathan Worthington, Ph.D.,Continue reading “What About Orality? Jonathan Worthington Answers”
Is Literacy Overrated?
Christians are people of the Book. Does that mean that we should pursue global literacy? Or can the Word of God thrive in oral cultures too? Joining this week to discuss is Jonathan Worthington, Ph.D., of Training Leaders International. Believe in our mission? Support this podcast. The Missions Podcast is a ministry resource of ABWE. LearnContinue reading “Is Literacy Overrated?”
Healthy Missionaries, Healthy Christians: Mason King on Spiritual Disciplines
Are you struggling to deepen your relationship with God and wondering how to become the person He created you to be? Join Scott and Alex on The Missions Podcast as they interview Mason King, author of A Short Guide to Spiritual Disciplines and pastor at The Village Church, on the topic of spiritual disciplines. KingContinue reading “Healthy Missionaries, Healthy Christians: Mason King on Spiritual Disciplines”
Why We Avoid God
Sometimes, those of us in ministry can easily avoid God out of a secret fear that heâs displeased with us. This week, author and pastor Mason King helps us unlearn some common misconceptions about spiritual disciplines. Believe in our mission? Support this podcast. The Missions Podcast is a ministry resource of ABWE. Learn more at abwe.org. WantContinue reading “Why We Avoid God”
Making Disciples in Light of the Trinity: Chase Davis
Have we focused too much on contextualization and not enough on who God is? This week, we talk to J. Chase Davis, author of Trinitarian Formation: A Theology of Discipleship in Light of the Father, Son, and Holy Spirit. In this episode, we explore how the doctrine of the Trinity can deepen our understanding ofContinue reading “Making Disciples in Light of the Trinity: Chase Davis”
Yes, You Can Just Be Yourself
Have we so emphasized contextualization that weâve started to adopt a different persona altogether in the name of evangelistic effectiveness? J. Chase Davis, author of Trinitarian Formation: A Theology of Discipleship in Light of the Father, Son, and Holy Spirit, answers in this weekâs upcoming show. Believe in our mission? Support this podcast. The Missions PodcastContinue reading “Yes, You Can Just Be Yourself”
The Resurrection and Mission With Dr. Tim Bertolet
What does the resurrection of Jesus Christ mean for global missions? In this thought-provoking podcast, Tim Bertolet (Ph.D., University of Pretoria), initiatives strategist with ABWE, dives deep into the importance of the resurrection and its relationship with redemption, evangelism, and our future hope. With insightful analysis of key verses from 1 Corinthians, Romans, and Acts,Continue reading “The Resurrection and Mission With Dr. Tim Bertolet”
Itâs Friday, but Sundayâs Coming
Coming up on Easter Sunday: New Testament scholar Tim Bertolet, Ph.D., unpacks the powerful implications of Christâs resurrection on the global missionary mandate. Believe in our mission? Support this podcast. The Missions Podcast is a ministry resource of ABWE. Learn more at abwe.org. Want to ask a question or suggest a topic? Email alex@missionspodcast.com.
Recovering Our Ambition: Alex Kocman on Romans 15
This is a special episode of the podcast featuring a sermon preached by Alex Kocman at Laurelglen Bible Church in Bakersfield, CA on March 12, 2023. In this episode, Kocman provides insights from Romans 15, challenging us to have a greater passion for reaching the unreached with the gospel. Tune in to this inspiring sermonContinue reading “Recovering Our Ambition: Alex Kocman on Romans 15”
Calling and Desire
What role does desire play in the missionary call? We explore in this weekâs upcoming episode. Believe in our mission? Support this podcast. The Missions Podcast is a ministry resource of ABWE. Learn more at abwe.org. Want to ask a question or suggest a topic? Email alex@missionspodcast.com.
MEGA Episode: A Debate on Prioritism and Holism With Ray Norman and Alex Kocman
What is prioritism? What is holism? Is there a middle way? For decades these questions have reverberated throughout the missions community. They arenât theoretical issuesâthey affect the daily work of missionaries. In this special episode, we bring you a dialogue over the relationship between evangelism and social action with Alex Kocman of ABWE, author ofContinue reading “MEGA Episode: A Debate on Prioritism and Holism With Ray Norman and Alex Kocman”
Whatâs At Stake if We Donât Preach Christ
Some in the missions world maintain that the Great Commission is simply about serving othersâwhether or not the gospel is presented. In this weekâs upcoming episode, we explain whatâs at stake in the long-running missiological debate between prioritism and holism. Believe in our mission? Support this podcast. The Missions Podcast is a ministry resource of ABWE.Continue reading “Whatâs At Stake if We Donât Preach Christ”
Does the Church Have One Mission or Two? âCome and Seeâ Author Justin Schell
What is the churchâs mission? Are proclamation and mercy ministry separate tasks, or intertwined? And are we forgetting our foundationâpursuing the glory of God? We explore this week with Justin Schell, US director of Union School of Theology and director of executive projects with Lausanne Movement. Justin studied mission and biblical theology at Gordon-Conwell TheologicalContinue reading “Does the Church Have One Mission or Two? âCome and Seeâ Author Justin Schell”
Words and Deeds: One Mission or Two?
Is missions about proclaiming the word, deeds of mercy, or both? Justin Schell, US director for Union School of Theology and director of executive projects with Lausanne Movement, answers in our upcoming podcast discussion on his new book Come and See: A History and Theology of Mission. Believe in our mission? Support this podcast. The MissionsContinue reading “Words and Deeds: One Mission or Two?”
Can We Learn From Movements? JR Stevenson on What the Reformed and Movements Can Learn From Each Other
Many church and missions leaders are concerned that disciple making movements, church planting movements, and other multiplication methodologies are guilty of pragmatism. Conversely, movement practitioners accuse critics of being too tied to tradition. Is there common ground? In a recent article for Global Missiology, Middle East missionary J.R. Stevenson claims the two sides of theContinue reading “Can We Learn From Movements? JR Stevenson on What the Reformed and Movements Can Learn From Each Other”
Are We Wrong About Movements?
Coming this week: J.R. Stevenson, a missionary in the Middle East, engages us with a different perspective on movements. Believe in our mission? Support this podcast. The Missions Podcast is a ministry resource of ABWE. Learn more at abwe.org. Want to ask a question or suggest a topic? Email alex@missionspodcast.com.
Is Revival Biblical?
What is ârevivalâ? Is it biblical? And if so, should we pursue it in our homes, churches, and across the globe? Scott and Alex wrestle with the timely topic in light of the recent reports from Asbury University. You can watch the video version of this episode and more on the ABWE YouTube channel. Believe inContinue reading “Is Revival Biblical?”
The True Sign of Revival
Revival is in the news. What should we be looking for in terms of biblical revivalâin our own lives, our families, our churches, and among the nations? We discuss in this weekâs upcoming episode. Believe in our mission? Support this podcast. The Missions Podcast is a ministry resource of ABWE. Learn more at abwe.org. Want to askContinue reading “The True Sign of Revival”
Is Missions in the Old Testament?
Does the Old Testament give us a theology of missions? Or are we reading our modern convictions into the ancient text? Dr. Scott Callaham, Ph.D., dean of the Institute of Public Theology, weighs in. Believe in our mission? Support this podcast. The Missions Podcast is a ministry resource of ABWE. Learn more at abwe.org. Want to askContinue reading “Is Missions in the Old Testament?”
Partnering on Mission: Why Church Associationalism Matters With Dr. James Renihan
Modern people are fiercely independent. In America, our churches tightly hold on to their freedom. What biblical basis is there for church associations? Can Baptists partner together on mission while still holding to local church autonomy? Dr. James Renihan, theologian and president of International Reformed Baptist Seminary, answers. After a ministry of church planting inContinue reading “Partnering on Mission: Why Church Associationalism Matters With Dr. James Renihan”
Jim Renihan: The Missional Advantage of Church Partnership
What does associational church membership have to do with the Great Commission? Everything, in fact. Dr. James Renihan of IRBS shares more in this weekâs upcoming show. Believe in our mission? Support this podcast. The Missions Podcast is a ministry resource of ABWE. Learn more at abwe.org. Want to ask a question or suggest a topic? Email alex@missionspodcast.com.
Hope for American Evangelicals: A Missionary Perspective on Restoring Our Broken House With Matt Bennett
Is the American evangelical house in order? Or is it in need of a remodel? Orâeven worseâshould we sell the house altogether and look for another home? Matt Bennett answers these timely questions from the missionary perspective of Lesslie Newbigin. Dr. Matthew Bennett joined the faculty at Cedarville University in fall 2017 after serving and living inContinue reading “Hope for American Evangelicals: A Missionary Perspective on Restoring Our Broken House With Matt Bennett”
What the Church Has That the World Doesnât
The church has the answer for our broken, secular culture. In this weekâs upcoming answer, Matt Bennett shares how the missionary identity of the church serves as a beacon to a watching world. Believe in our mission? Support this podcast. The Missions Podcast is a ministry resource of ABWE. Learn more at abwe.org. Want to ask aContinue reading “What the Church Has That the World Doesnât”
You Are Sent: A Conversation With Nathan Sloan
What is the crux of missions? What does Scripture have to say about the plight of the lost, and are churches doing enough about it? This week, Nathan Sloan, executive director of Upstream Sending and previous ABWE missionary, answers with insights from his latest book, You Are Sent: Finding Your Place in Godâs Global Mission.Continue reading “You Are Sent: A Conversation With Nathan Sloan”
Why Do We Even Need Missions?
Coming up this Sunday: Upstream Sending Executive Director Nathan Sloan shares what makes missions necessary and why churches canât afford to lose their zeal for the lost. Believe in our mission? Support this podcast. The Missions Podcast is a ministry resource of ABWE. Learn more at abwe.org. Want to ask a question or suggest a topic? Email alex@missionspodcast.com.
MEGA Episode: What Is a Nation? Vishal Mangalwadi on the Great Commission
Defining the word ânationâ is crucial, and not just in missionsâin culture and even politics, too. How does Scripture define ânation,â and what does it mean for the Great Commission? Indian philosopher and Christian activist Vishal Mangalwadi returns to the show to explore this multifaceted issue. What do you think of Mangalwadiâs view? Let usContinue reading “MEGA Episode: What Is a Nation? Vishal Mangalwadi on the Great Commission”
What Genesis Means by âNationâ
What defines a ânationâ has never been more controverisal. This week, Indian philosopher Vishal Mangalwadi returns to the show to unpack this complex issue biblically. Believe in our mission? Support this podcast. The Missions Podcast is a ministry resource of ABWE. Learn more at abwe.org. Want to ask a question or suggest a topic? Email alex@missionspodcast.com.
Poland, Ukraine, and Ministering Amid International Crisis: Pastor Maksymâs Story
How has the face of Europe changed since the Russian war against Ukraine reached its current escalation? And what can US churches learn as they try to reach immigrants? Pastor Maksym Sliazin, a Ukrainian refugee himself, shares how God is working through the local church among refugees in Poland despite ethnic tensions. Also in thisContinue reading “Poland, Ukraine, and Ministering Amid International Crisis: Pastor Maksymâs Story”
Pastoring Through Ethnic Tensions in Eastern Europe
How do you hold together a church of Ukrainians, Poles, Belarusians, and more in the midst of a tense war? A Ukrainian refugee pastor shares in this weekâs compelling conversation. Get more content at missionspodcast.com. Believe in our mission? Support this podcast. Want to ask a question or suggest a topic? Email alex@missionspodcast.com.
What About My Kids? Cheryl Winget on MK Education and Parenting on the Field
How can missionary parents raise children who are godly Christ-followers on the mission field? How should missionaries make education choices for their childrenâwhether to choose home schooling, international school, or public school? And what happens when MKs have special needs? Dr. Cheryl Winget joins to answer these complex and important questions. Cheryl Winget (D.Ed. in specialContinue reading “What About My Kids? Cheryl Winget on MK Education and Parenting on the Field”