Impact Nations Podcast

Send a textWhen we hear the word justice, we often think in terms of punishment, fairness, or consequences. But what if the justice revealed in Jesus looks radically different?In this episode, Tim welcomes theologian and author Joash P. Thomas to explore how empire, colonization, and cultural proximity to power shape the way we read Scripture—and how Jesus invites us into a justice that restores rather than retaliates.Drawing from his book The Justice of Jesus, Joash challenges the “small gospel” that reduces salvation to souls going to heaven and calls the church back to a holistic vision of liberation and wholeness.In This Conversation:Defining “marginalized Christians”How empire influences theologyThe “colonizer's gospel” vs. the gospel of ChristWhy justice must be both physical and spiritualWhat church budgets reveal about our true theologyRestorative justice and the restoration of all thingsAccountability, reconciliation, and hopeWhy Jesus—not culture—must define justiceThis is a rich theological conversation that will stretch your thinking and deepen your love for Christ.What's Next:Join our upcoming LIVE “Ask Me Anything” Q&A episodeSeason 12: Echoes of Eden (Genesis 1–11) launches soonLike, Share, & Subscribe so you don't miss an episode.Joash P. Thomas LinksBook: https://a.co/d/0d8VotaChttps://www.instagram.com/joashpthomashttps://joashpthomas.substack.com/p/launching-masala-chai-theology

Send a textIn this vibrant roundtable, Tim is joined by a panel of ministry leaders and journeyers to talk about fundraising for Journeys of Compassion.

Send us a textTim welcomes peace advocate, author, and pilgrim guide Mercy Aiken back to the show! As she prepares to move to Jordan with Peace Catalyst International, Mercy unpacks the complexity of the Israel-Palestine conflict, explains the transformative power of pilgrimages, and offers on-the-ground insights into the unfolding humanitarian crisis in Gaza.If you're looking for an honest, hope-filled conversation about peacemaking, justice, and what Jesus really meant in His most unsettling teachings, this episode is for you.

Send us a textJoin Tim Stewart and special guest Jordan Moody, Project Manager at Impact Nations, for an inspiring episode filled with real-life stories of hope and transformation from around the world. From Uganda to Gaza, India to Nepal—get a behind-the-scenes look at how your generosity is changing lives every day.

Send us a textIn this episode of Enter the Grayzone, host Robby Ortiz sits down with Tim Stewart, the CEO of Impact Nations, to discuss how the Gospel of the Kingdom is transforming lives through both supernatural and practical ministry.

Send us a textIn Part 2 of this special podcast series, host Tim Stewart is joined again by Steve & Christina Stewart, Adam Powell, Heather Robinson, and Ken Rounds—leaders who've spent decades on the frontlines of Gospel mission with Impact Nations. Together, they share unforgettable stories of healing, deliverance, and restoration during Journeys of Compassion around the world.

Send us a textIn this kickoff episode of our Journeys of Compassion mini-series, Tim Stewart hosts a powerful roundtable of Impact Nations veterans—including founders Steve & Christina Stewart, board leaders, and pastors—to reflect on the power of 20 years of missions that go far beyond the ordinary.

Send us a textIn the fourth and final week of our Advent journey, Tim and Steve explore the central theme of the Gospel: Love.From ancient church fathers to modern humanitarian action, this episode draws a line from God's self-giving nature to our call to love those in need.This episode includes:Why Advent is a time to receive, not striveInsights from St. Isaac the Syrian on God's immeasurable loveThe Trinitarian rhythm of love, inclusion, and invitationStories of rescue and restoration made possible by love in action1 John's call to love not just with words, but in truth and actionA poem to close our series with beauty and wonder

Send us a textThis week on the Impact Nations Podcast, we light the pink candle of Advent—Joy. In this powerful conversation, Tim and Steve dive into why joy is far deeper than happiness and how it sustains us even through sorrow. This is joy that cannot be stolen, only surrendered—and it's ours in Christ.

Send us a textIn this second installment of our Advent 2025 series, Tim and Steve reflect on the Advent theme of peace—not a passive feeling, but a bold, active calling to become peacemakers in a world marked by anxiety, division, and injustice.Drawing from Scripture, the Church Fathers, and personal stories, they explore what it means to receive Christ's supernatural peace and extend it to others.

Send us a textWelcome to a special episode of the Impact Nations Podcast! This week, Tim is joined by two of Impact Nations' core team members—Jordan Moody (Project Manager) and Bill Verbakel (Program Director)—for an inside look at the making of this year's Gift Catalog.From story collection to global collaboration with partners in Uganda and Nepal, discover what it takes to bring together this powerful annual tool that tells stories of rescue, transformation, and Kingdom impact—and makes it possible for you to participate directly in that impact.

Send us a textWe're kicking off a powerful four-part Advent series with this week's theme: HOPE. But not hope as wishful thinking—hope as trust.In this deeply reflective episode, Tim and Steve explore what it means to wait well. Drawing from scripture, Church history, and personal experience, they show us how waiting is actually an active, hope-filled posture of spiritual maturity.

In the powerful conclusion to our Resurrection series, Tim and Steve explore what it really means to live in light of Jesus' resurrection.This episode takes a hard look at the way Western theology has drifted into escapism—through rapture teaching, disembodied heaven myths, and even the use of violence in the name of Christ. They unpack the biblical and early church vision of new creation, how our glorified bodies will participate in it, and what happens when we die.

In this fifth episode of our Resurrection Series, Steve and Tim turn to Paul's sweeping proclamation of the Gospel in 1 Corinthians 15—the “resurrection chapter.” They unpack what it means to have a living hope through the resurrection of Christ and why that matters for us today.Key topics include:The centrality of resurrection to the GospelPaul's response to Greek dualism and modern misunderstandingsThe enemies of Christ: death, sin, and the powers (not people!)What Scripture and the Church Fathers say about resurrected bodiesThe difference between defeat and destruction of deathWhat “God will be all in all” really meansWhy our work today echoes into eternityQuote of the week:“The resurrection doesn't point to an alternate reality—it invites us into the ultimate reality we're already part of.”

In this fourth episode of our Resurrection Series, Tim and Steve journey down the Emmaus Road (Luke 24:13–35) to explore how the resurrected Christ reveals Himself in all of Scripture—especially the Old Testament.Far more than symbolic or prophetic references, we discover that Christ is eternally present in the Scriptures—indwelling time itself and inviting us to encounter Him in a living, sacramental way.This episode dives into:Why Luke 24 contains the longest resurrection story in the GospelsHow Eucharist opens our eyes to recognize ChristWhat "sacramental time" means and why it mattersChristophanies, typology, and Jesus' ongoing presence in the Old TestamentWhy reading Scripture with Jesus changes everythingThe beauty of Christ pursuing us—even when we're stuck in disappointment

In this third episode of our Resurrection Series, Tim and Steve explore one of the most misunderstood disciples—Thomas. Was he really a doubter… or just a man who longed for the same encounter his friends had? This powerful conversation will challenge how we think about doubt, belief, church community, and what it means to bear the marks of grace.

What does it mean that Jesus still has scars after the resurrection? Why does He breathe on His disciples? And what is the significance of Mary Magdalene's encounter in the garden?In this powerful follow-up to Episode 1, Tim and Steve explore John 20:11–23, uncovering deep truths about identity, commissioning, and the Spirit-breathed birth of the Church.In this episode, we discuss:Mary Magdalene as the first apostleJesus' command: “Do not cling to me”Peace as more than a greeting—it's a commissioningThe new creation breath of the SpiritResurrection life in a wounded world

We're back with a brand-new series on the Impact Nations Podcast—this time, digging deep into the resurrection of Jesus.Tim and Steve Stewart kick things off with the Gospel of John and explore how three often-overlooked details—the folded face cloth, the angels inside the tomb, and Jesus being mistaken as a gardener—are actually rich with theological meaning and profound relevance for our lives today.

This week, we revisit a listener favorite: a deeply enriching conversation with theologian and author Dr. Bradley Jersak. Together with Tim and Steve Stewart, Dr. Jersak unpacks the meaning, history, and spiritual depth of liturgy in Christian tradition—and how it still speaks powerfully today.

We're continuing our special series replay from The Restoration Conversation! This week, Bethany Sweesy sits down once again with powerhouse leaders Christina Stewart (Impact Nations) and Annabelle Nakabiri (The Remnant Generation) to talk about building transformational culture, measuring real impact, and leaving a lasting legacy in your organization or ministry.

As we prepare to launch our upcoming series on the resurrection, we're revisiting a powerful episode from The Restoration Conversation. Board member Bethany Sweesy sits down in Uganda with Christina Stewart (Impact Nations) and Annabelle Nakabiri (The Remnant Generation) to discuss transformational leadership.Whether you're a seasoned leader or someone waiting for permission to step into your calling, this conversation will challenge and inspire you. From rescuing vulnerable girls to leading global organizations, Christina and Annabelle share practical insights and deep spiritual wisdom on leading with compassion, courage, and clarity.

As we gear up for our new series The Other Side of the Cross, we're revisiting a listener favorite—Episode 8-23. In this powerful conversation, Tim interviews Impact Nations founder Steve Stewart about his book Pursuing the Mystery of Christ.This episode challenges the fear-based gospel many of us were raised with, inviting us to explore the beauty, paradox, and eternal presence of Christ. From rethinking the Incarnation to reframing the gospel as a mystery to be pursued—not a formula to master—this is one of our most spiritually rich episodes.

Marc Alan Schelske: Recovering from Performance-Driven Faith & Journaling Your Way to Spiritual MaturityCan journaling be more than just keeping a diary? Can it actually foster emotional health, honest faith, and deeper connection with God?This week, author and pastor Marc Alan Schelske returns to the Impact Nations Podcast to share wisdom from his new book, Journaling for Spiritual Growth. Together with Tim, he unpacks how journaling helps us move from religious performance to authentic transformation.

What is the difference between the gift of prophecy and the office of a prophet? Are we really all meant to hear God's voice?This week, Tim welcomes Murray Dueck and Tricia Warren—founders of Samuel's Mantle and co-hosts of their brand-new podcast—to unpack the biblical invitation to hear God personally. Together, they demystify prophecy, reflect on their 25-year journey in prophetic training, and call the Church back to relational intimacy with the Holy Spirit.✨ In this episode:Why the name “Samuel's Mantle” mattersThe biblical and practical meaning of a prophetic mantleMisunderstandings about prophecy in the modern ChurchWhy many Christians don't believe they can hear God—and how to overcome that lieWhat it means to eagerly desire the gift of prophecy (1 Cor. 14)Funny and profound stories from the coffee shop, the classroom, and more

Mercy Aiken: Genocide in Gaza, The Truth About the West Bank & What the Church Must DoThis week on the Impact Nations Podcast, Mercy Aiken joins Tim to unpack her recent travels across Israel, Palestine, and Jordan. A peace advocate and frontline relief coordinator, Mercy shares stories of hope, heartbreak, and what it truly means to follow Jesus into places of deep conflict and injustice.Highlights from the episode:Mercy's experience being locked down in Bethlehem during the Iran-Israel conflictThe growing humanitarian catastrophe in Gaza—why food is there, but people are still starvingWhat's really happening in the West Bank: road closures, economic collapse, and forced displacementConfronting genocide in the Bible and learning to interpret Scripture through the lens of ChristThe spiritual cost of dehumanization and nationalism in the ChurchHow to extend love across cultural, political, and religious linesWhat you can do right now to help—both practically and spiritually

Annabelle Nakibiri Ssebakijje: Rescuing Girls, Raising Leaders, and Growing a FarmThis week on the Impact Nations Podcast, Tim is joined by his dear friend and longtime partner, Annabelle Nakibiri Ssebakijje, director of The Remnant Generation in Uganda. For over 10 years, Annabelle has led a movement to rescue vulnerable girls from abuse and abandonment, offering them dignity, healing, and a future.Together, Tim and Annabelle explore:Her personal journey as a leader—and lessons she's learned along the wayHow she's empowering a team of women to bring national transformationWhat Westerners often get wrong in their approach to povertyBalancing family, ministry, and missionWhy she's becoming a farmer—and how Hope City Farm is the next big leap for TRGLearn more at: https://theremnantgeneration.orgSubscribe for new episodes every Thursday.#ImpactNations #AnnabelleNakibiri #TheRemnantGeneration #Leadership #HopeCityFarm #ChristianMissions #WomenInMinistry #FaithInAction #RescueAndRestore #ChristianLeadership

Christian Nationalism, Nonviolence & the Justice of GodThis week on the Impact Nations Podcast, Tim is joined by author and theologian Dr. Bradley Jersak to explore the Kingdom of God as a nonviolent revolution of love. They discuss violent prophetic imagery in Isaiah, the dangers of Christian Nationalism, and what justice really looks like in the light of Jesus.Bradley reflects on his own journey—from Baptist pastor to Principal of St. Stephen's University—and shares why SSU is reimagining theological education around peace, justice, and mercy.Topics include:Interpreting violent OT passages like Isaiah 63Christian Nationalism vs. the way of JesusLessons from the early church on missions without empireFinding unity in a divided churchHow to respond to rising antisemitismDeveloping redemptive leadership through discipleship

Summer Series 2025From the Slums to the CEO's Chair: Emmanuel Trinity's Incredible JourneyWhat happens when one computer, one mentor, and one surrendered heart collide with a God-sized vision? This week on the Impact Nations Podcast, Tim sits down with longtime partner and friend, Emmanuel Trinity, founder of ERA92—a dynamic, faith-driven social enterprise in Uganda that is transforming entire communities through tech training, discipleship, and business innovation.Born into poverty in one of Kampala's most dangerous slums, Trinity's story is one of breathtaking redemption. From surviving gang life and losing childhood friends to violence, to landing a job with Coca-Cola—and walking away from it all just six months later to return to the slums and serve—Trinity has dedicated his life to helping others escape the very darkness he once knew.In this powerful conversation, you'll hear:How a single computer became the catalyst for a movement that now trains thousands of youth annually.The birth of ERA92 Elevate and how it's creating real jobs—not just diplomas—for young people leaving gangs, prostitution, and hopelessness.Why charity alone isn't enough—and how Trinity is building sustainable businesses to fund long-term transformation.His leadership journey from perfectionist solo-operator to developer of hundreds of leaders.A glimpse into Trinity's revolutionary "Choose Africa" campaign to rebrand the continent through jobs, dignity, and global outsourcing.This is more than a story of transformation—it's a masterclass in redemptive leadership, innovation, and Kingdom impact.

Steve is busy preparing a few more episodes of our Road To The Cross series. Meanwhile, Tim will spend the next two months interviewing interesting people for your viewing pleasure.Starting August 7th, guests will include:  • Dr. Bradley Jersak (Principal of St Stephen's University)  • Mercy Aiken (Expert on the West Bank and Gaza)  • Emmanuel Trinity (African Entrepreneur and Impact Nations Partner)  • Marc Alan Schelske (Author of “Journaling for Spiritual Growth”)  • Murray Dueck and Tricia Warren (Hosts of the Samuel's Mantle podcast)  • Annabelle Nakabiri Ssebakijje (International speaker on protecting women, Impact Nations Partner)  • Dr. Cherith Nordling (Theologian, Author of “Knowing God by Name”)  • Randeep Matthews (Theologian, Expert in demonology)  • and more!We don't know what order these guests will appear in, so tune in each week for a great surprise!

The resurrection is just about life after death—it's about ultimate transformation.In this episode we discuss the resurrection of Jesus. Highlights include:• Why did Jesus' resurrected body still have wounds?• Why didn't his disciples recognize Him?• How does Christ's resurrection give us hope for our own restoration in the here and now?• What does the resurrection say about the promise of new creation?

What happened between the cross and the resurrection? Why does it matter?In this episode we explore one of the most mysterious—and neglected—moments in the story of salvation: Christ's descent into Hades. Highlights include:What the early church believed about Christ's descentWhat scripture has to say about itHow this informs our understanding of the gospel as a source of hope, rescue, and restoration for all of creation

What if the story of the Cross was never about satisfying a wrathful God, but about defeating the very forces that hold humanity in bondage? In this episode, Tim and Steve unpack the ancient view of the atonement known as Christus Victor—the belief that through Jesus' death and resurrection, sin, death, and Satan were overthrown once and for all. They explore how this early church understanding offers a cosmic perspective of salvation, rooted not in guilt and punishment but in liberation and restoration. Along the way, they revisit the teachings of Irenaeus and Pelagius, challenging centuries-old assumptions and rediscovering the triumphant love revealed at Calvary.Highlights:How Pelagius, often misunderstood as a heretic, actually reflected the sacred anthropology of early Celtic and Eastern Christianity.The contrast between Augustine's doctrine of original sin and Pelagius's view of the divine image in humanity.Why the early church understood the Cross as a cosmic victory over sin, death, and the devil—not divine punishment.Jesus' death as a triumphant descent into death and Hades to rescue humanity, not a ransom paid to God or Satan.The role of the Trinity in the crucifixion: God was in Christ, reconciling the world through self-giving love.How the Christus Victor perspective calls us into a life of freedom, restoration, and participation in Christ's victory.

For centuries, the dominant explanation for the cross in Western Christianity has been rooted in retribution—Jesus taking the punishment we deserved. Is that really the whole story? Does it reflect the true heart of God?In this episode we trace the historical development of the Penal Substitutionary Atonement theory. How did theology, empire, and culture combine to shape a view of God that is more violent than loving? Is it time for a different lens?If this episode challenges or encourages you, drop a comment and share it with a friend. And don't forget to subscribe so you never miss a conversation!

This week on The Road to the Cross, Tim and Steve dive into one of the most influential ideas in Western Christianity: original sin. How did a fifth-century theory by Augustine come to dominate our understanding of salvation, the cross, and even our identity?Tracing the theology from Eden to empire, they uncover a progression that reshaped how many Christians understand God's character—introducing fear, shame, and legalism into what was meant to be good news.

This week on The Road to the Cross, Tim travels to Canada to sit down with theologian and author Bradley Jersak for a powerful conversation about cruciform love—the kind of love revealed on the cross that lays down power, enters our suffering, and forgives without limits.Together, they unpack what it means for Jesus to be self-giving, radically forgiving, and co-suffering—and how this shapes the way we pray, lead others, and share the gospel. With compelling stories, theological depth, and practical insights, this episode is a heartfelt invitation to reimagine what love really looks like when it's shaped by the cross.

Is the cross only about personal forgiveness—or is there something far more expansive at work?In this powerful solo episode, Tim unpacks the breathtaking truth that the cross marked the beginning of God's cosmic restoration—the healing of all creation, systems, and humanity itself. Drawing from early church fathers and N.T. Wright, he reclaims a gospel that is not about escaping this world, but restoring it.

In this week's episode, Tim and Steve dive deep into two of the most powerful biblical images: the scapegoat and the Passover lamb. From ancient rituals in Leviticus to the prophetic imagery of Jesus in the Gospels, they explore how Christ takes on the blame of the world and offers a way of healing and peace instead of violence and accusation.You'll hear about:The Day of Atonement and the two goatsMimetic theory and why societies always seek a scapegoatHow Jesus' death subverts the cycle of blame and divisionThe astonishing parallels between the Passover lamb and the crucifixion

What if the cross is about more than personal forgiveness?In this episode, Tim takes us deep into the heart of Cosmic Restoration—the idea that Jesus' death and resurrection began the healing of all things: creation, communities, and every broken part of our world. It's a powerful vision of the gospel that calls us to join the work of renewal right now.

From Eden to Calvary—one story, two trees, and a promise fulfilled.In Episode 11 of The Road to the Cross, Steve and Tim explore the deep spiritual connection between the two trees in the Garden of Eden and the cross of Christ. Through rich theology, church history, and personal reflection, they unpack how the cross doesn't just echo Eden—it rewrites the story.You'll discover:Why the cross is the true tree of lifeHow the knowledge of good and evil led to a fear of deathWhat the early church called deification—and how it shapes our futureThe real meaning behind “This day you'll be with Me in paradise”This episode invites you to revisit your origin, rediscover your identity, and reimagine the cross as the gateway back to paradise—and forward into new creation.

"Father, forgive them..."From the cross, Jesus spoke seven final phrases—each one rich with meaning, mercy, and mystery.In Episode 10 of The Road to the Cross, Steve and Tim explore the seven sayings of Jesus at the crucifixion. These last words reveal the fullness of His love: words of forgiveness for His enemies, compassion for His mother, welcome to a thief, and a bold proclamation that “It is finished.”Why did Jesus quote Psalm 22? What does it mean that blood and water flowed from His side? What do His final words tell us about His mission—and His victory?This conversation is a journey into the heart of the gospel.✝️ Discover the cross again—and maybe for the first time.

This week on The Road to the Cross, Steve and Tim follow Jesus beyond the city gates, where the condemned are cast out to die. As we approach Golgotha, we reflect on the shame of crucifixion, the symbolism of exile, and the prophetic layers hidden in the details of Jesus' suffering. Why was he crucified outside the camp? What's the deeper meaning behind the crown of thorns, the robe, and the inscription Pilate wrote?We also discuss mob violence, lament, and how Jesus' journey still transforms lives today—from ancient Jerusalem to modern Uganda.

Jesus stands before Pilate and the question rings out: What is truth?In Episode 8 of The Road to the Cross, Steve and Tim explore the trial of Jesus before the Roman authorities. From political manipulation to spiritual blindness, we witness a cosmic clash between kingdoms—and a king who rules from below. Along the way, we unpack:• The historical and spiritual meaning behind “Behold the man”• Why the mockery of Jesus carries a deeper truth• How injustice, fear, and mob mentality still operate today• The irony of religious leaders renouncing their own birthrightDon't miss this sobering and rich episode that uncovers how divine love stood silent in the face of accusation.Learn more about how Impact Nations is bringing hope and healing around the world at: www.impactnations.com

Welcome back to The Road to the Cross.This week, we enter a courtroom drenched in darkness—not of truth, but of manipulation. Jesus is dragged before the high priest, subjected to an illegal trial driven by false witnesses, corrupt leaders, and hidden agendas.Tim and Steve unpack:Why Annas still held power behind the scenesThe deep corruption of the religious eliteThe contrast between Peter's regret and Judas' despairWhat Jesus' silence says about power, justice, and the Kingdom of GodAs spiritual darkness gathers, Jesus' response is calm, courageous, and clear—a model for every believer facing injustice today.

In this episode, we journey to the Garden of Gethsemane, where Jesus faced his most vulnerable moment – wrestling with sorrow, pleading with the Father, and embracing the weight of what was to come. Join Steve and Tim as they delve into the depth of Christ's humanity and what it means for us today.Discover the profound significance of the Garden as a place of battle, sorrow, and ultimately, redemption. Explore the cosmic struggle and the unparalleled obedience displayed by Jesus as he fully embraced his humanity in the face of darkness.Don't miss this powerful discussion as we continue our series, The Road to the Cross.

In this episode of The Road to the Cross, we continue exploring Jesus' final meal with His disciples. As He offers the cup, we uncover the deep connection between communion, sacrifice, and the prophetic imagery of the wine press. Tim and Steve unpack how this moment foreshadows Christ's suffering and the love poured out for the world.Join us as we dive deeper into the mystery of the Eucharist and what it means for us today.

Welcome back to The Road to the Cross, Season 10 of the Impact Nations Podcast! In this episode, Tim and Steve dive into the profound mystery of Communion, exploring its rich symbolism and deep spiritual significance.

In Episode 1: The Emptying Begins, we enter the Upper Room, where Jesus humbles Himself by washing the feet of His disciples. What does this moment reveal about His mission, the nature of true authority, and the road to the cross? Join us as we unpack the profound significance of Christ's self-emptying love and how it calls us to a life of humility and service.

This week, Tim is joined by author Marc Schelske to discuss his book Walking Otherward: Forty Meditations on Following Jesus' Path of Other-Centered, Co-Suffering Love. This forty-day devotional invites readers to journey with Jesus in the final weeks leading to His crucifixion, reflecting on the transformative power of kenotic (self-emptying) love. More than just a Lenten guide, this book provides a deeply theological and reflective approach to exchanging self-centered ambition for the radical, other-centered love of Christ.Tune in as Marc shares insights from his writing process, shaped by conversations with Dr. Bradley Jersak and a foreword by Brian Zahnd.Stay Connected with Marc:

Nativity story. From the angelic proclamation to the shepherds to the life-changing reality of Christ's birth, we are invited to see the intersection of Heaven and Earth. The angels' declaration, “Glory to God in the highest, and on Earth peace,” reminds us that the Nativity is not just a historical event but an invitation into a life of faith, wonder, and participation in God's eternal kingdom.Throughout this series, we've explored the themes of hiddenness, humility, and the transformative power of God breaking into our world in smallness and frailty. Now, we see the culmination in the glory of God, calling us to rise and embrace the wonder of His presence, both around us and within us. The Nativity reminds us that the Kingdom of Heaven is here and now, inviting us to live with an active, unwavering faith.