How do missions agencies determine which fields, nations, and people groups to target for gospel witness? Itâs not always a straightforward answer. In this weekâs upcoming episode, Alex and Scott explore why.
Speaker Archives
Reaching the âReachedâ and Challenging Missions Shibboleths: Trevor Holloway Joins
How should mission organizations balance the call to pioneer new frontiers with the need to strengthen existing churches? In this episode, Dr. Trevor Holloway, Director of Mobilization at ABWE and seasoned missionary, challenges traditional approaches to global missions. We delve into strategic shifts required as Christianity expands in the global South, explore the evolving rolesContinue reading “Reaching the âReachedâ and Challenging Missions Shibboleths: Trevor Holloway Joins”
The Crisis in Manipur, India: Pastor Stephen Shares
What does it mean to keep the faith in the midst of persecution? This episode features Pastor Stephen, a Live Global partner from Manipur, India, discussing the severe challenges faced by Christians in a region marked by religious conflicts. Manipurâs Christians, often caught between competing religious groups, face significant oppression and violence at the handsContinue reading “The Crisis in Manipur, India: Pastor Stephen Shares”
Dawkins, Haiti, and Christendom: A Missions News Rundown
Alex and Scott delve into pressing global headlines and explore their implications for the church worldwide. In this episode, we assess the spiritual and societal challenges faced by believers in various regions and how these events shape mission. Stories covered:
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 Lordâs 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 Lordâs Leading”
A Crisis in Evangelism? A Conversation With Paul Akin
Weâve 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 todayâs 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 wasnât 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
Weâve 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 Youâre 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 Youâre Called”
What Every Missionary Needs to Know About Language Acquisition: Jim Ruff Explains
Weâve 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”
Cloud of Witnesses Ep. 2: Flying by Faith
Original show notes: In this episode of Cloud of Witnesses, we hear from missionary pilot Steve Aholt, and his wife Sandy, who served in Papua New Guinea for 24 years in missionary aviation. Steve and Sandy share incredible stories of seeing Godâs faithfulness firsthand while serving the people of Papa New Guinea and opening upContinue reading “Cloud of Witnesses Ep. 2: Flying by Faith”
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 Bahulaâs 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 âMissionaryâ
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 âMissionaryâ”
Building Missional Institutions
Coming up this week, weâre joined by Brooks Buser and Pat Daly to discuss what it takes to build sacrificial, faithful, mission-minded churches, educational institutions, and families. Tune in Sunday night at 7 p.m.
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 âreached,â 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”
Many Teachers, Few Fathers
This week, we dig into the mailbag and talk about a variety of timely missions topics, including the tension between pursuing the unreached and continually discipling the reached. New episode drops Sunday at 7 PM Eastern.
Ludwig Krapf: Who He Was and Why Youâve 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 Youâve 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”
Whatâs Happening in Global Theological Education in 2024: Dr. Michael Ortiz Speaks
Much of the global church is in need of the Westâs 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 “Whatâs 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 ABWEâs own Tim Bertolet, focusing on the motivations in ministry: are we seeking personal glory or glorifying the Lord? Delving into Martin Lutherâs 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 Yearâs Eve Countdown: 2024âs 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 Yearâs Eve Countdown: 2024âs 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 Godâs 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”
Do Scott and Alex Disagree?
Coming up this weekâs Christmas roundup: We debrief the past year of podcasts, including⊠times when Alex and Scott didnât see eye to eye? We know itâs shocking. Tune in Sunday at 7 p.m. to have all your questions answered. Believe in our mission? Support the show at missionspodcast.com/support. The Missions Podcast is a ministry resourceContinue reading “Do Scott and Alex Disagree?”
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”
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”
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”
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”
âTis the Season to Rethink Outreach?
In this festive episode of The Missions Podcast, we unwrap the topic of outreach during the Christmas season and beyondâfrom shoeboxes to food drives to capital campaigns and, of course, door-to-door caroling. We explore each methodâs effectiveness, asking the tough questions: Are we truly meeting needs or just fulfilling our own holiday expectations? Are thereContinue reading “âTis the Season to Rethink Outreach?”
The Goodness of Christian Culture
This week, Alex and Scott talk about how Christian tradition around the holidays can be an evangelistic tool in drawing the lost to the community of faith. 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 aContinue reading “The Goodness of Christian Culture”
Artificial Intelligence and World Missions
In this episode of The Missions Podcast, Alex Kocman and Scott Dunford explore the rise of AI and its effects on the global missions community. From AI-powered church services to a new partnership between SIL and Christian Vision to develop a Bible-focused chatbot, the discussion touches on the potential dangers and ethical concerns of AI,Continue reading “Artificial Intelligence and World Missions”
The Lie of Transhumanism
Throughout the West, transhumanismâthe idea that through technology and artifice we can transcend our natural limitationsâis enchanting unbelievers. But Christ as Lord will have the final word. 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 aContinue reading “The Lie of Transhumanism”
Letting the Gospel Wreck Your Life: Scott Dunford Shares
Scott calls us to let the good news of grace so its work to send us out on missions.
Navigating the Uncharted: A Conversation with Emily Bennett on âBefore You Goâ
This week on the Missions Podcast, hosts Alex and Scott sit down with Emily Bennett, the general editor of the insightful book, Before You Go: Wisdom from Ten Women Who Served Internationally (2023). As someone who heeded the call to take the gospel to the nations, Emily shares a wealth of experience aimed at preparingContinue reading “Navigating the Uncharted: A Conversation with Emily Bennett on âBefore You Goâ”
Israel, Palestine, and the Gospel
What is happening to Christians in Israel and the Palestinian territories right now, and what does the current war mean in terms of the advance of the gospel? In this episode, Alex and Scott wrestle Hamasâ bloody attacks on Israel and the ensuing conflict from a biblical worldview. As mentioned in the show, you canContinue reading “Israel, Palestine, and the Gospel”
Erased: What Every Believer Needs to Know About the Armenian Christian Genocide, Then and NowâWith Joel Veldkamp
In this eye-opening episode, we sit down with Joel Veldkamp, head of international communications at Christian Solidarity International, to discuss the ongoing crisis facing Armenian Christians in Nagorno-Karabakh. Joel brings his expertise to shed light on the historical, political, and spiritual dimensions of this crisis, urging the global Christian community to stand in solidarity withContinue reading “Erased: What Every Believer Needs to Know About the Armenian Christian Genocide, Then and NowâWith Joel Veldkamp”
Crisis in Missions? Independent Filmmaker David Griffin Speaks
Should every Christian be an evangelist? What about every missionary? In this episode, we sit down with David Griffin, an independent filmmaker, digital marketer, and former church planter, to delve into the complexities and challenges facing modern missions. Griffin, the creative mind behind the documentary âThe Crisis of Missions,â unpacks the most pressing issues missionariesContinue reading “Crisis in Missions? Independent Filmmaker David Griffin Speaks”
Are We âUnhingedâ? What Genocide, Assassination, and Other Current News Means for Missions
In this week’s episode, we dive deep into the headlines that are shaping our world and explore how they intersect with the Great Commission. From the UN’s warning of a âgreat fractureâ to geopolitical tensions between Canada and India, we ask: What does this mean for the spread of the gospel? We also shed lightContinue reading “Are We âUnhingedâ? What Genocide, Assassination, and Other Current News Means for Missions”
A World in Chaos
What do chaotic world events teach us about Godâs purposes? This week, Alex and Scott dive into the headlinesâand Scripture. 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.
Preaching People Out of the Pews: How to Mobilize From the Pulpit
Is your pulpit a launch pad for mission, or a podium for pew-warmers? In this riveting discussion, Scott and Alex delve into the critical role of pastoral preaching in mobilizing the church for missions. They discuss common pitfalls to avoid and share their favorite Scripture passages for missions-focused messages. They also explore how to seamlesslyContinue reading “Preaching People Out of the Pews: How to Mobilize From the Pulpit”
What Is Karmic Christianity? An Interview With E.D. Burns
In this eye-opening episode, we sit down with E.D. Burns, author of Karmic Christianity: Finding Peace by Faith Alone, to dissect the pitfalls of blending karma with Christian faith. Burns warns missionaries against the trap of treadmill living, where the focus shifts from Godâs grace to human effort, leading to ministry burnout and a distortedContinue reading “What Is Karmic Christianity? An Interview With E.D. Burns”
Planting by Pastoring: A Vision for Starting a Healthy Church With Nathan Knight
Is church planting just a numbers game, or is there a deeper, biblical vision for launching new congregations? In this episode, we sit down with Nathan Knight, author of Planting by Pastoring: A Vision for Starting a Healthy Church, to challenge the entrepreneurial mindset that often infiltrates church planting. Knight unpacks the biblical foundation forContinue reading “Planting by Pastoring: A Vision for Starting a Healthy Church With Nathan Knight”
Biblical Headship and Its Missiological Implications: Scott Callaham Returns
In this thought-provoking episode, we sit down with Dr. Scott Callaham, dean of the Institute of Public Theology, to explore the biblical concept of headship and its far-reaching implications for missions. Dr. Callaham brings a wealth of experience from his roles as a pastor, chaplain, cross-cultural international missionary, conference speaker, Bible translator, and seminary professor.Continue reading “Biblical Headship and Its Missiological Implications: Scott Callaham Returns”
Unleashing Spiritual Gifts in Missions: A Conversation with David Rogers
In this enlightening episode, we sit down with David Rogers, a long-time ABWE missionary in Chile, where he has served with his wife Ruth for over 40 years. As the president of Ministerio Cristiano CRECE, a Spanish language Christian publishing house, and the author of the upcoming book Spiritual Gifts: Identify them through the PRIZMContinue reading “Unleashing Spiritual Gifts in Missions: A Conversation with David Rogers”
Missionary Virtue in Action: A Look at Philippians 2
In this episode, Alex Kocman unpacks the essence of Christian mission-mindedness through the lens of Philippians 2:19-30. Drawing from the examples of Timothy and Epaphroditus, this text demonstrates the way in which we are to be marked by selfless pursuit of Christâs interests, love for Christâs people, and the honor and care for Christâs soldiers.Continue reading “Missionary Virtue in Action: A Look at Philippians 2”