Podcast Archives

Beyond Winsomeness: Michael Clary on the Church Planting Movement and Contextualization in an Age of Sexual Confusion

How can the church hold to its foundational truths while effectively engaging in a rapidly shifting cultural landscape? This episode features Michael Clary, a seasoned ministry leader with insights into church planting and cultural engagement. As we delve into topics like the dangers of cultural Marxism within the church and the balance between truth andContinue reading “Beyond Winsomeness: Michael Clary on the Church Planting Movement and Contextualization in an Age of Sexual Confusion”

Cloud of Witnesses Ep. 5: Surrendering to the Lord’s Leading

Original show notes: On this episode of Cloud of Witnesses, we hear the story of Gib and Marilyn Dickenson, who served in the West African country of Togo for 36 years. Gib and Marilyn share their experience of moving to Togo, which had recently opened to missionaries at the time, and the process of leadingContinue reading “Cloud of Witnesses Ep. 5: Surrendering to the Lord’s Leading”

A Crisis in Evangelism? A Conversation With Paul Akin

We’ve launched our premium membership! Visit missionspodcast.com/premium to join and gain access to exclusive bonus content. In this episode of The Missions Podcast, we sit down with Dr. Paul Akin, Provost and Senior Vice President for Academic Administration at The Southern Baptist Theological Seminary, to discuss the critical and evolving landscape of evangelism in today’s rapidly changingContinue reading “A Crisis in Evangelism? A Conversation With Paul Akin”

Cloud of Witnesses Ep. 4: Focusing on the Family

Original show notes: In this enriching episode of Cloud of Witnesses, we delve into the nearly four-decade-long ministry journey of ABWE missionaries Dave and Becky Nelson, who devoted their lives to mission aviation and administrative roles in the Philippines. For Becky, missions wasn’t just an overseas endeavor but started right at home, focusing on raisingContinue reading “Cloud of Witnesses Ep. 4: Focusing on the Family”

Globalization and Blind Spots: Dr. Craig Ott on Contextualization

We’ve launched our premium membership! Visit missionspodcast.com/premium to join and gain access to exclusive bonus content. Join us in empowering the next wave of missionaries by supporting those still in the crucial phase of raising support. Visit abwe.org/prefield. In this compelling episode, we delve into the complexities and challenges of contextualizing the gospel in a rapidly globalizingContinue reading “Globalization and Blind Spots: Dr. Craig Ott on Contextualization”

Cloud of Witnesses Ep. 3: Staying Faithful Where You’re Called

Original show notes: On this episode of Cloud of Witnesses, we hear from Rosie Stoner, who served with her late husband Bill for 39 years as missionaries with ABWE in several countries. Rosie and Bill served faithfully with ABWE in Chile, Spain, the United States, and Budapest. Rosie shares her personal struggles through a miscarriageContinue reading “Cloud of Witnesses Ep. 3: Staying Faithful Where You’re Called”

What Every Missionary Needs to Know About Language Acquisition: Jim Ruff Explains

We’ve launched our premium membership! Visit missionspodcast.com/premium to join and gain access to exclusive bonus content. In this insightful episode, we explore the complex and often challenging journey of language learning for missionaries. Our guest, Jim Ruff, delves into a series of probing questions that shed light on common pitfalls, strategic decisions, and the spiritualContinue reading “What Every Missionary Needs to Know About Language Acquisition: Jim Ruff Explains”

Evangelism, Media, and Saving the Unborn With Jon Speed

This week, we delve into the crucial intersection of missions, evangelism, and the pro-life movement with Jon Speed, pastor of missions and evangelism at By the Word Baptist Church in Azle, Texas. Jon brings a unique perspective on why the fight for the unborn is not just a political issue but a gospel imperative forContinue reading “Evangelism, Media, and Saving the Unborn With Jon Speed”

Cloud of Witnesses Ep. 1: Serving Through Suffering

Original show notes: In this pilot episode, we hear the story of Tim Bahula, from ABWE Canada, who served with his wife in Trinidad and Tobago for eight years. While home on furlough, the Bahula’s received the unexpected and devastating news that Jane had been diagnosed with cancer, and within months passed away. Tim opensContinue reading “Cloud of Witnesses Ep. 1: Serving Through Suffering”

Who Was John Nevius? Joshua Bowman on the Missionary to China and Three-Self Missiology

Who was John Nevius, and why does his legacy continue to influence missions today? In this captivating episode of The Missions Podcast, we delve into the life and groundbreaking work of John Nevius with the insights of Joshua Bowman, a seasoned missionary with extensive experience in Zambia and South Asia, and currently serving as anContinue reading “Who Was John Nevius? Joshua Bowman on the Missionary to China and Three-Self Missiology”

Preserving Missionary Fervor in Our Lives and Institutions: Brooks Buser and Pat Daly Discuss ‘Missionary’

Brooks Buser of Radius International has been galavanting around the world on pilgrimage, touring the sites connected with six famed, historic missionary heroes in the filming process for a new documentary series. What did he learn in the process about the mettle needed for the missionary task? Brooks joins Alex to discuss, along with PatContinue reading “Preserving Missionary Fervor in Our Lives and Institutions: Brooks Buser and Pat Daly Discuss ‘Missionary’”

Paul Planted, Apollos Watered, but God: Chris Sadowitz on Weakness in Missions

In this insightful episode of the Missions Podcast, we explore a critical question at the heart of Christian ministry: What does it mean to be vulnerable in ministry, and how does it affect our approach to the mission field? We delve into the biblical principle that while Paul planted and Apollos watered, it was GodContinue reading “Paul Planted, Apollos Watered, but God: Chris Sadowitz on Weakness in Missions”

Mailbag: Neglecting the Unreached and Fighting Heresy

In this episode, we tackle two pivotal topics at the heart of global missions. We begin by responding to one friendly criticism and exploring the nuanced definition of “reached,” emphasizing the importance of not just making contact with the unreached but ensuring every nation, tribe, and people group has a fully mature body of believers.Continue reading “Mailbag: Neglecting the Unreached and Fighting Heresy”

Ludwig Krapf: Who He Was and Why You’ve Never Heard of Him

Dive into the transformative legacy of Ludwig Krapf, a figure whose pioneering translation work and partnerships in missions laid foundational stones for the gospel’s spread in East Africa. Krapf’s enduring impact questions how we view mission work today, inviting us to explore the deep roots of faith across continents. His story is not just aContinue reading “Ludwig Krapf: Who He Was and Why You’ve Never Heard of Him”

Demonology for the Global Church: Scott MacDonald on a Biblical Approach to the Unseen Realm

We delve into the intriguing world of demonology with Scott D. MacDonald, author of Demonology for the Global Church: A Biblical Approach in a Multicultural Age. As a former missionary instructor and now an associate professor of theology, Scott brings a wealth of knowledge from his experiences in the field and academia. We explore theContinue reading “Demonology for the Global Church: Scott MacDonald on a Biblical Approach to the Unseen Realm”

What’s Happening in Global Theological Education in 2024: Dr. Michael Ortiz Speaks

Much of the global church is in need of the West’s riches in terms of biblical and theological training. But how is increasing indigenization of global Christian movements changing the landscape of theological education worldwide? In this enlightening episode of The Missions Podcast, we sit down with Michael Ortiz, a renowned figure in global theologicalContinue reading “What’s Happening in Global Theological Education in 2024: Dr. Michael Ortiz Speaks”

Virtuous Persuasion: Redefining Missions With Michael Niebauer

In this insightful episode, Michael Niebauer, pastor and director of Heritage Mission, delves into the heart of Christian missions. He eloquently discusses the essential elements of virtuous practice, proclamation, and gathering in missions, redefining skilled missionary work as following Christ rather than just mastering techniques. Niebauer also critically evaluates three popular models of missions, offeringContinue reading “Virtuous Persuasion: Redefining Missions With Michael Niebauer”

The Persecuted Church in Nigeria With Judd Saul

In this episode, we delve into the harrowing reality of Christian persecution in Nigeria. Our guest, Judd Saul, brings a wealth of knowledge and insight into the recent Christmas attacks in Plateau State, where scores of Christians were brutally massacred. As we unpack the details of these attacks, we explore the complex web of religious,Continue reading “The Persecuted Church in Nigeria With Judd Saul”

A Theology of the Cross in Missions: Tim Bertolet Explains

Join Scott and Alex for a profound discussion with ABWE’s own Tim Bertolet, focusing on the motivations in ministry: are we seeking personal glory or glorifying the Lord? Delving into Martin Luther’s distinction between the theology of glory and the theology of the cross, this episode examines its impact on evangelical missions and Christian living.Continue reading “A Theology of the Cross in Missions: Tim Bertolet Explains”

New Year’s Eve Countdown: 2024’s Must-Read Missions Books

The tradition is back! In this compelling episode, Chris Howles of For Every Nation joins the discussion to unveil his top 10 missions books to read in 2024. This episode is a treasure trove for anyone engaged in or interested in missions, offering insights that blend deep theological understanding with practical application in the missionContinue reading “New Year’s Eve Countdown: 2024’s Must-Read Missions Books”

Christmas Year in Review: Top Episodes, World Events, and Lessons Learned

In this special Christmas episode of The Missions Podcast, we take a moment to reflect on the past year, celebrating God’s unwavering guidance and the impactful conversations that have touched our hearts and minds. We revisit the best episodes of the year, shedding light on the valuable lessons and inspiring experiences that have deepened ourContinue reading “Christmas Year in Review: Top Episodes, World Events, and Lessons Learned”

Doing Honest Missions History With Ed Smither

In this conversation with Ed Smither, we delve into the evangelical tradition of honoring figures like William Carey and Lottie Moon, exploring how we can respect the past without veering into hagiography. Key discussion points include uncovering lesser-known missionaries who inspire, acknowledging the failures of past missions, and learning from historical examples, including Roman CatholicContinue reading “Doing Honest Missions History With Ed Smither”

Missionary Monks?

Coming up this week: Ed Smither explains what evangelical missionaries today can learn from the monastic movements of Christendom, despite theological disagreements. 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.

Voddie Baucham on Education, Mission, and Christian Culture-Building

In this dynamic episode of The Missions Podcast, we sit down with Dr. Voddie Baucham to explore the intersection of education, mission, and Christian culture-building. Dr. Baucham, a respected figure in pastoral work and theological education, currently shaping minds at the African Christian University in Zambia, brings his unique perspective to the table. The discussionContinue reading “Voddie Baucham on Education, Mission, and Christian Culture-Building”

Voddie: Missionaries Aren’t All ‘Green Berets’

Is missions only for the elite few? Or is there more to being a part of the mission of God, even from the pew? It’s one of the many topics coming up in this Sunday’s conversation with Dr. Voddie Baucham. Believe in our mission? Support the show at missionspodcast.com/support. The Missions Podcast is a ministry resourceContinue reading “Voddie: Missionaries Aren’t All ‘Green Berets’”

More Modern Lessons From Medieval Missions With Glenn Sunshine

In part two of our insightful discussion with Dr. Glenn Sunshine, we shift our focus to the present, exploring the practical lessons that today’s evangelicals can learn from medieval missionary endeavors. Dr. Sunshine, drawing from his extensive study of Christian history, highlights how the methodologies and theological understandings of early missionaries like Saints Boniface andContinue reading “More Modern Lessons From Medieval Missions With Glenn Sunshine”

Unlearning Myths About Colonialism

Did earlier generations of Protestants truly fail at the missionary task, as we’ve often been led to believe? This week, we resume our conversation with Glenn Sunshine as we glean lessons from church history for today’s missions endeavors. Believe in our mission? Support the show at missionspodcast.com/support. The Missions Podcast is a ministry resource of ABWE.Continue reading “Unlearning Myths About Colonialism”

Medieval Missions Explored: Boniface, Patrick, and More With Glenn Sunshine

Part one of our engaging conversation with Dr. Glenn Sunshine takes us into the heart of medieval missions, focusing on influential figures like Saint Boniface and Saint Patrick. Dr. Sunshine, with his deep knowledge of European history, paints a vivid picture of the missionary landscape during the early medieval period. This episode delves into theContinue reading “Medieval Missions Explored: Boniface, Patrick, and More With Glenn Sunshine”

’Tis the Season to Rethink Outreach?

In this festive episode of The Missions Podcast, we unwrap the topic of outreach during the Christmas season and beyond—from shoeboxes to food drives to capital campaigns and, of course, door-to-door caroling. We explore each method’s effectiveness, asking the tough questions: Are we truly meeting needs or just fulfilling our own holiday expectations? Are thereContinue reading “’Tis the Season to Rethink Outreach?”