The Missions Podcast

Can compassion ministry and gospel proclamation work together? In this episode of The Missions Show, Alex and Scott sit down with Dave Phillips, founder and president of Children's Hunger Fund (CHF), to explore the relationship between gospel proclamation, mercy ministry, and the local church. Dave shares the remarkable story behind CHF's founding, beginning with a life-changing visit to a pediatric cancer ward in Honduras and culminating in a providential donation of life-saving medicine that confirmed God's call to launch the ministry. What started as a small step of faith has grown into a global ministry serving suffering children and families through partnerships with local churches in more than 30 countries. The conversation also tackles some of the most important debates in modern missions: the balance between word and deed ministry, the dangers of prosperity theology, the role of parachurch organizations, and how churches can engage in poverty alleviation without undermining local congregations. Key Topics Dave Phillips' testimony and the founding story of Children's Hunger Fund How God used a providential donation of cancer medication to confirm CHF's mission The relationship between gospel proclamation and mercy ministry Why addressing spiritual poverty must remain central to poverty alleviation efforts The biblical role of the local church versus parachurch organizations in missions Lessons from When Helping Hurts, short-term missions, and serving the poor with sound theology Do you love The Missions Show? Have you been blessed by the show? Then become a Premium Subscriber! Premium Subscribers get access to: Exclusive bonus content A community Signal thread with other listeners and the hosts Invite-only webinars A free gift! Support The Missions Show and sign up to be a Premium Subscriber at missionsshow.com/premium The Missions Show is powered by ABWE. Learn more and take your next step in the Great Commission at abwe.org. Want to ask a question or suggest a topic? Email alex@missionsshow.com.

Is Peru as reached as we think? In this episode of The Missions Show, Alex and Scott talk with veteran ABWE missionary Stephen Douglas to explore more than four decades of gospel ministry in Peru. Stephen shares how God led him and his wife Debbie to the city of Arequipa—a historic Roman Catholic stronghold known as the “Little Rome of Peru”—and how a small church-planting team, where no evangelical churches existed before, grew into a network of dozens of churches throughout the region. Stephen also recounts powerful stories of lives changed through discipleship, leadership development, and church planting, including Peruvian believers who have become pastors and missionaries serving around the world. While Peru and South America still have significant gospel needs, Stephen casts a compelling vision for the future: strengthening local churches, training national leaders, and equipping Latin American believers to become a launching force for global missions. Key Topics Stephen Douglas's call to missions and journey to Peru Church planting in Arequipa, Peru's historic Catholic stronghold The growth from a pioneering work to a regional church-planting movement Stories of Peruvian pastors and missionaries impacting the nations Challenges and opportunities in reaching modern Peruvian culture A vision for Peru and Latin America as a launching pad for global missions Support the work of Steve and Debbie Douglas as they continue to plant churches, train leaders, and send out Peruvian missionaries to the world - https://give.abwe.org/worker/stephen-and-debi-douglas Are you feeling called to the mission field, but don't know where to start? ABWE's 24-Hour DEMO is for those that are seeking opportunities and direction on how they can help fulfill the Great Commission. Find your role in global missions at demo.abwe.org. Do you love The Missions Show? Have you been blessed by the show? Then become a Premium Subscriber! Premium Subscribers get access to: Exclusive bonus content A community Signal thread with other listeners and the hosts Invite-only webinars A free gift! Support The Missions Show and sign up to be a Premium Subscriber at missionsshow.com/premium The Missions Show is powered by ABWE. Learn more and take your next step in the Great Commission at abwe.org. Want to ask a question or suggest a topic? Email alex@missionsshow.com.

This week, Alex and Scott tackle a difficult question from a missionary wife who, after experiencing significant trauma, grief, anxiety, depression, family challenges, and cultural stress during overseas service, no longer feels able to return to the mission field while her husband remains convinced they should continue. They explore the realities of missionary hardship, the emotional and spiritual toll of cross-cultural ministry, and the tension that can arise when spouses find themselves at odds over what they believe God is calling them to do. The conversation examines biblical concepts of calling, marriage, submission, family priorities, and the role of the local church in affirming missionary service. Alex and Scott encourage listeners to distinguish between personal desires, genuine calling, and God's providential limitations, while emphasizing that husbands and wives must seek unity, wise counsel, and pastoral guidance when navigating major ministry decisions. Key Topics Covered The emotional, relational, and spiritual impact of missionary trauma and culture shock. How to distinguish between personal desires, ministry ambitions, and biblical calling. The local church's role in affirming, evaluating, and guiding missionary service. Biblical perspectives on marital leadership, submission, and decision-making during disagreement. Balancing ministry commitments with responsibilities to spouse, children, and family health. Practical counsel for couples seeking unity when one spouse wants to continue missions and the other does not. Here's the conversation from Scott Dunford and his wife about missions. Do you love The Missions Show? Have you been blessed by the show? Then become a Premium Subscriber! Premium Subscribers get access to: Exclusive bonus content A community Signal thread with other listeners and the hosts Invite-only webinars A free gift! Support The Missions Show and sign up to be a Premium Subscriber at missionsshow.com/premium The Missions Show is powered by ABWE. Learn more and take your next step in the Great Commission at abwe.org. Want to ask a question or suggest a topic? Email alex@missionsshow.com.

In this episode of The Missions Show, Alex and Scott welcome pastor, author, and former missionary J. Chase Davis to discuss the crisis of biblical masculinity and its implications for the church and missions. Drawing from his book Offensive Christianity, Davis argues that the modern church has often replaced robust discipleship with therapeutic, “nice” Christianity that neglects courage, conviction, and a biblical understanding of manhood. The conversation explores how theological anthropology, cultural movements like pietism, and modern evangelical trends have contributed to an increasingly feminized church culture that often struggles to challenge men toward sacrificial leadership and spiritual maturity. From a missions perspective, together they examine how an overemphasis on comfort and safety can weaken the church's vision for gospel advance. Key Topics The theological roots behind the modern crisis of masculinity Why “nice Christianity” can undermine bold discipleship The difference between meekness and weakness in missions How evangelical culture became increasingly “feminine coded” Recovering courage, risk, and conviction in missionary service Why churches must cast a stronger vision for men in missions Learn more and get your copy of Chase's book, Offensive Christianity here. Are you feeling called to the mission field, but don't know where to start? ABWE's 24-Hour DEMO is for those that are seeking opportunities and direction on how they can help fulfill the Great Commission. Find your role in global missions at demo.abwe.org. Do you love The Missions Show? Have you been blessed by the show? Then become a Premium Subscriber! Premium Subscribers get access to: Exclusive bonus content A community Signal thread with other listeners and the hosts Invite-only webinars A free gift! Support The Missions Show and sign up to be a Premium Subscriber at missionsshow.com/premium The Missions Show is powered by ABWE. Learn more and take your next step in the Great Commission at abwe.org. Want to ask a question or suggest a topic? Email alex@missionsshow.com.

In this episode of The Missions Show, Alex sits down with ABWE's Director of International Security and Crisis Management, Bill Gruppen, to discuss the difficult balance between missionary safety and gospel risk-taking in some of the world's most dangerous places. Drawing from decades of experience in law enforcement, emergency response, and security, Bill shares how God redirected his professional skill set into missions work through TACTICA Ministries and ABWE. Together, they explore how missionaries prepare for crises, make difficult stay-or-go decisions in conflict zones like the Middle East and Ukraine, and seek to remain faithful witnesses without embracing unnecessary danger. Bill explains how emergency response ministries can strengthen long-term church planting efforts by building relationships, serving communities in moments of suffering, and opening doors for gospel ministry. Key Topics: Why missionary safety and gospel risk must be held in biblical balance How ABWE missionaries navigate conflict zones and crisis situations Bill Gruppen's journey from law enforcement and emergency response into missions The role of TACTICA Ministries in reaching first responders with the gospel ABWE's vision for disaster relief and crisis response teams Encouragement to pray for missionaries and first responders serving under pressure If you would like to know more about International Security and Crisis Management, visit International Security and Crisis Management. Support the work of Bill and Cindy Gruppen at Bill and Cindy Gruppen | give.abwe.org. Do you love The Missions Show? Have you been blessed by the show? Then become a Premium Subscriber! Premium Subscribers get access to: Exclusive bonus content A community Signal thread with other listeners and the hosts Invite-only webinars A free gift! Support The Missions Show and sign up to be a Premium Subscriber at missionsshow.com/premium The Missions Show is powered by ABWE. Learn more and take your next step in the Great Commission at abwe.org. Want to ask a question or suggest a topic? Email alex@missionsshow.com.

Christian missions has never existed in a cultural vacuum. From William Carey's role in ending widow burning in India to Gladys Aylward confronting foot-binding in China, the spread of Christianity has often transformed entire societies. But where is the line between gospel transformation and cultural imperialism? When missionaries challenge practices rooted in paganism, are they discipling nations or exporting Western assumptions? In this episode, Alex and Scott explores the missionary task through the lens of Scripture, church history, and cultural theology. Looking at both Scripture and missions history, we explore: What parts of culture must be rejected? What parts can be redeemed? How should missionaries approach technology, literacy, family structures, and social customs? And how can Christians avoid simply replacing old idols with modern Western ones? Key Topics: The balance between gospel proclamation and cultural transformation Historical examples of Christianity influencing societal change The danger of exporting Western or personal cultural preferences The importance of developing indigenous expressions of Christianity The role of institutions (schools, hospitals, state) in missions work Practical guidance for missionaries engaging with local cultures We recently made some upgrades to our studio and we needed a table that didn't just look good on camera, but could handle the demands of a production studio. That's why we partnered with Oak Park Tables. Oak Park Tables, located right near us in central Pennsylvania, makes hand-crafted legacy furniture that lasts, looks beautiful, and shares our values. If you need a beautiful signature piece of furniture, we highly recommend checking out Oak Park Tables. Find them at oakparktables.com Do you love The Missions Show? Have you been blessed by the show? Then become a Premium Subscriber! Premium Subscribers get access to: Exclusive bonus content A community Signal thread with other listeners and the hosts Invite-only webinars A free gift! Support The Missions Show and sign up to be a Premium Subscriber at missionsshow.com/premium The Missions Show is powered by ABWE. Learn more and take your next step in the Great Commission at abwe.org. Want to ask a question or suggest a topic? Email alex@missionsshow.com.

How do you explain the Trinity to Muslims? On this episode of The Missions Show, Alex and Scott sit down with Dr. Imad Shehadeh, founder and president of Jordan Evangelical Theological Seminary, to explore what it means to faithfully articulate and defend the doctrine of the Trinity in a Muslim-majority context. Drawing from decades of theological education and ministry, Shehadeh explains how misunderstandings about the Trinity and the assumption that Christians believe in three gods. He emphasizes that the core differences between Islam and Christianity ultimately stem from contrasting views of God's nature, particularly whether God is relational in His essence. The conversation also underscores the importance of deep theological clarity in missions work. Dr. Shehadeh describes how training leaders at Jordan Evangelical Theological Seminary involves translating complex doctrine into accessible truth while fostering respectful, bridge-building dialogue. Key Topics: Explaining and defending the Trinity in Muslim contexts Theological differences between Islam and Christianity (nature of God, salvation, revelation) Why God's relational nature is central to the gospel message Misconceptions about Christian beliefs within the Muslim world Training pastors and leaders for ministry in the Middle East Practical approaches to evangelism marked by humility and clarity We recently made some upgrades to our studio and we needed a table that didn't just look good on camera, but could handle the demands of a production studio. That's why we partnered with Oak Park Tables. Oak Park Tables, located right near us in central Pennsylvania, makes hand-crafted legacy furniture that lasts, looks beautiful, and shares our values. If you need a beautiful signature piece of furniture, we highly recommend checking out Oak Park Tables. Find them at oakparktables.com Do you love The Missions Show? Have you been blessed by the show? Then become a Premium Subscriber! Premium Subscribers get access to: Exclusive bonus content A community Signal thread with other listeners and the hosts Invite-only webinars A free gift! Support The Missions Show and sign up to be a Premium Subscriber at missionsshow.com/premium The Missions Show is powered by ABWE. Learn more and take your next step in the Great Commission at abwe.org. Want to ask a question or suggest a topic? Email alex@missionsshow.com.

In this episode of The Missions Show, Alex and Scott sit down with Dr. Daniel Shayesteh. Dr. Shayesteh shares his powerful journey from a radical Muslim involved in the Iranian Revolution to a follower of Christ. Raised in a devout Islamic context that viewed Christianity as corrupt, he rose to prominence as a religious figure and political activist under Ayatollah Khomeini. But after witnessing deception and oppression, he became disillusioned, was imprisoned, and narrowly escaped execution before fleeing Iran. In Turkey, Shayesteh's academic studies and unexpected encounters with Christians began to reshape his worldview. Drawn initially by practical needs, he encountered the love, freedom, and relational nature of God in Christianity, ultimately leading to his conversion. His story highlights the transforming power of the gospel and challenges believers to engage Muslims with truth and compassion. Dr. Daniel Shayesteh leads the ministry Exodus From Darkness. Key Topics: Background in Islam and role in the Iranian Revolution Disillusionment with Khomeini's regime Escape from Iran and life in Turkey Comparative study of religions Encounters with Christians and conversion Missions implications for reaching Muslims We recently made some upgrades to our studio and we needed a table that didn't just look good on camera, but could handle the demands of a production studio. That's why we partnered with Oak Park Tables. Oak Park Tables, located right near us in central Pennsylvania, makes hand-crafted legacy furniture that lasts, looks beautiful, and shares our values. If you need a beautiful signature piece of furniture, we highly recommend checking out Oak Park Tables. Find them at oakparktables.com Do you love The Missions Show? Have you been blessed by the show? Then become a Premium Subscriber! Premium Subscribers get access to: Exclusive bonus content A community Signal thread with other listeners and the hosts Invite-only webinars A free gift! Support The Missions Show and sign up to be a Premium Subscriber at missionsshow.com/premium The Missions Show is powered by ABWE. Learn more and take your next step in the Great Commission at abwe.org. Want to ask a question or suggest a topic? Email alex@missionsshow.com.

Can church planting be done wrong? This episode of The Missions Show explores the debate around Church Planting Movements (CPMs), interacting with a Lausanne article that presents them as a highly effective missions strategy. Alex Kocman and Scott Dunford explain what CPMs are and why they generate both enthusiasm and concern, especially regarding their emphasis on rapid multiplication and minimal training. Alex and Scott raise key theological and practical questions about doctrine, discipleship, and the definition of the church. While affirming the desire for gospel growth, they caution against prioritizing speed and numbers over biblical faithfulness, urging listeners to focus on sound doctrine and trust God for lasting fruit. Key Topics: What Church Planting Movements (CPMs) are Why CPMs are controversial in missions Speed vs. depth in discipleship and church growth The importance of doctrinal accountability Evaluating success beyond numbers We recently made some upgrades to our studio and we needed a table that didn't just look good on camera, but could handle the demands of a production studio. That's why we partnered with Oak Park Tables. Oak Park Tables, located right near us in central Pennsylvania, makes hand-crafted legacy furniture that lasts, looks beautiful, and shares our values. If you need a beautiful signature piece of furniture, we highly recommend checking out Oak Park Tables. Find them at oakparktables.com Do you love The Missions Show? Have you been blessed by the show? Then become a Premium Subscriber! Premium Subscribers get access to: Exclusive bonus content A community Signal thread with other listeners and the hosts Invite-only webinars A free gift! Support The Missions Show and sign up to be a Premium Subscriber at missionsshow.com/premium The Missions Show is powered by ABWE. Learn more and take your next step in the Great Commission at abwe.org. Want to ask a question or suggest a topic? Email alex@missionsshow.com.

Did Canada just pass a bill that outlaws particular Bible teaching? This episode of The Missions Show explores the implications of Canada's Bill C9 (the “Combating Hate Act”) and its potential impact on religious freedom, gospel proclamation, and missions. Guest John Taylor, ABWE missionary in Canada, explains that while the bill aims to curb violence and protect marginalized communities, its vague definition of “hate” and removal of key legal protections for religious expression raise serious concerns. The conversation highlights how this cultural and legal shift may affect both local churches and global missions efforts. John encourages believers to remain faithful, proclaim the full counsel of God with humility and love, and avoid allowing cultural pressures to dictate the message of the gospel. Together they emphasize that missions must continue through both word and deed—demonstrating Christ's love while clearly communicating humanity's need for salvation. Key Topics: Overview of Canada's Bill C9 and its legislative status Definitions of “hate” and concerns about vague legal language Potential classification of biblical passages as hate speech Removal of legal protections for religious expression Tension between religious freedom and evolving cultural norms Balancing cultural awareness with biblical faithfulness If you'd like more information on Bill C-9, check out these resources: CcccBill C-9: Passes Third Reading with Key Changes - CCCC Blogs EvangelicalfellowshipEFC - Religious Freedom in Canada - EFC Protects Religious Rights in Canada Do you love The Missions Show? Have you been blessed by the show? Then become a Premium Subscriber! Premium Subscribers get access to: Exclusive bonus content A community Signal thread with other listeners and the hosts Invite-only webinars A free gift! Support The Missions Show and sign up to be a Premium Subscriber at missionsshow.com/premium The Missions Show is powered by ABWE. Learn more and take your next step in the Great Commission at abwe.org. Want to ask a question or suggest a topic? Email alex@missionsshow.com.

How do you respond when people say that missions is colonialism? In this episode of The Missions Show, Alex and Scott tackle the increasingly common claim that missions is inherently colonialistic with guest Will Maxson. Prompted by real-world examples and cultural trends, they explore why this critique has gained traction, even within Christian institutions. Maxson acknowledges that while missions and colonial expansion sometimes overlapped historically, the popular narrative often exaggerates or misunderstands that connection. He argues that Christianity's missionary impulse is fundamentally different from colonialism, rooted not in coercion but in persuasion and respect for human dignity. They also examine difficult topics like the Crusades, cultural Christianity, and accusations of cultural erasure. Ultimately, they contend that authentic Christian missions do not destroy cultures but redeem them, affirming human agency and the image of God in all people. Key Topics Covered Why missions is often labeled as colonialism in modern culture Historical overlap—and key differences—between missions and colonial expansion The distinction between persuasion (evangelism) and coercion (colonialism) Christianity is the first truly transcultural religion How the missionary impulse promotes human dignity, freedom, and equality Evaluating the Crusades and other historical events without oversimplification We recently made some upgrades to our studio and we needed a table that didn't just look good on camera, but could handle the demands of a production studio. That's why we partnered with Oak Park Tables. Oak Park Tables, located right near us in central Pennsylvania, makes hand-crafted legacy furniture that lasts, looks beautiful, and shares our values. If you need a beautiful signature piece of furniture, we highly recommend checking out Oak Park Tables. Find them at oakparktables.com Do you love The Missions Show? Have you been blessed by the show? Then become a Premium Subscriber! Premium Subscribers get access to: Exclusive bonus content A community Signal thread with other listeners and the hosts Invite-only webinars A free gift! Support The Missions Show and sign up to be a Premium Subscriber at missionsshow.com/premium The Missions Show is powered by ABWE. Learn more and take your next step in the Great Commission at abwe.org. Want to ask a question or suggest a topic? Email alex@missionsshow.com.

In April 2001, tragedy struck deep in the jungles of Peru when a missionary flight carrying the Bowers family was mistakenly shot down during a counternarcotics operation gone wrong. Roni Bowers and her infant daughter, Charity, were killed. Jim Bowers and his young son survived. Twenty-five years later, Jim joins Alex and Scott to reflect on that day and what Jim has learned about loss, faith, and God's sustaining grace. While the incident drew international attention and remains a sobering example of the dangers missionaries face, this episode moves beyond the news cycle. Jim shares what it has looked like to walk the long road of grief, forgiveness, and trust in God's providence. Key Topics Jim Bowers recounts the tragic events of that day Recognizing God's sovereign plan and sustaining grace since the incident The risk of glamorizing hardships for attention How missionaries should count the cost of following their call to missions In this week's Overtime episode, Alex, Scott, and Jim talk about the confusing and misleading accounts from the CIA about the incident, the need for accountability within the government, and how to view recent political and military events. Get access to that episode by joining our Premium Subscribers at missionsshow.com/premium. We recently made some upgrades to our studio and we needed a table that didn't just look good on camera, but could handle the demands of a production studio. That's why we partnered with Oak Park Tables. Oak Park Tables, located right near us in central Pennsylvania, makes hand-crafted legacy furniture that lasts, looks beautiful, and shares our values. If you need a beautiful signature piece of furniture, we highly recommend checking out Oak Park Tables. Find them at oakparktables.com Do you love The Missions Show? Have you been blessed by the show? Then become a Premium Subscriber! Premium Subscribers get access to: Exclusive bonus content A community Signal thread with other listeners and the hosts Invite-only webinars A free gift! Support The Missions Show and sign up to be a Premium Subscriber at missionsshow.com/premium The Missions Show is powered by ABWE. Learn more and take your next step in the Great Commission at abwe.org. Want to ask a question or suggest a topic? Email alex@missionsshow.com.

How should we view Roman Catholicism on the mission field? In this episode of The Missions Show, Alex and Scott tackle the complex and often sensitive question of how Protestant missionaries should engage with Roman Catholics in the context of global missions. They emphasize that missions is not just about generic belief in Jesus, but about faithfully communicating the true gospel with doctrinal clarity. Alex and Scott explore key theological differences, especially regarding authority and salvation. The episode concludes with practical missiological insights, stressing the need to avoid assuming the gospel in any context and to engage both formal Catholic doctrine and “folk Catholicism” with clarity, compassion, and a commitment to proclaiming the biblical gospel. Key Topics The missionary challenge of engaging Roman Catholics and Orthodox believers Why doctrinal clarity (not just belief in Jesus) matters in missions Distinguishing individuals from theological systems The role of church history vs. the authority of Scripture The role of sacraments, merit, and perseverance in Catholic theology The importance of not assuming the gospel—even in “Christian” contexts We recently made some upgrades to our studio and we needed a table that didn't just look good on camera, but could handle the demands of a production studio. That's why we partnered with Oak Park Tables. Oak Park Tables, located right near us in central Pennsylvania, makes hand-crafted legacy furniture that lasts, looks beautiful, and shares our values. If you need a beautiful signature piece of furniture, we highly recommend checking out Oak Park Tables. Find them at oakparktables.com Do you love The Missions Show? Have you been blessed by the show? Then become a Premium Subscriber! Premium Subscribers get access to: Exclusive bonus content A community Signal thread with other listeners and the hosts Invite-only webinars A free gift! Support The Missions Show and sign up to be a Premium Subscriber at missionsshow.com/premium The Missions Show is powered by ABWE. Learn more and take your next step in the Great Commission at abwe.org. Want to ask a question or suggest a topic? Email alex@missionsshow.com.

In this episode of The Missions Show, Alex and Scott speak with ABWE missionaries “Will and Beth McAuliffe” (pseudonyms) about their long journey toward serving among Arabic-speaking people. After years of preparation and ministry in the Middle East, their plans were unexpectedly disrupted when their daughter was born extremely premature with significant medical complications. The experience forced them to leave the field and wrestle with whether their missionary calling had changed, ultimately leading them to new refugee ministry opportunities in Europe. Now living in Berlin, Germany, where thousands of Arabic-speaking refugees have settled, Will and Beth are creating unique opportunities for gospel ministry. Despite the challenges of a deeply secular culture and compassion fatigue toward refugees, they are building relationships, showing practical love, and pursuing church planting among Arabic-speaking communities across the city. Key Topics Will and Beth's lifelong calling to missions and ministry in the Middle East Navigating family hardships and their missionary calling after a medical crisis Reaching Arabic-speaking refugees in Germany The spiritual challenges of secular Europe and refugee ministry Do you love The Missions Show? Have you been blessed by the show? Then become a Premium Subscriber! Premium Subscribers get access to: Exclusive bonus content A community Signal thread with other listeners and the hosts Invite-only webinars A free gift! Support The Missions Show and sign up to be a Premium Subscriber at missionsshow.com/premium The Missions Show is powered by ABWE. Learn more and take your next step in the Great Commission at abwe.org. Want to ask a question or suggest a topic? Email alex@missionsshow.com.

How does Scripture order our affections? In this episode, Alex and Scott unpack the historic Christian concept of the ordo amoris—the “order of loves”—and why it matters for missions today. Drawing from Alex's new book Ordered to Love, they explore how Scripture and theologians like Augustine and Aquinas teach that our loves must be rightly ordered, beginning with God and flowing outward to family, church, nation, and the nations. Together they address current cultural tensions—nationalism, global instability, and missionary urgency—and ask how Christians should prioritize their responsibilities in a limited, embodied life. Alex and Scott clarify that grace does not destroy nature but restores it—meaning allegiance to Christ rightly orders, rather than erases, our natural relationships. Key Topics: What the ordo amoris is and why it matters to missions Family, church, nation, and global mission in proper relationship Missionary guilt vs. faithful obedience Grace restoring (not erasing) natural relationships Do you love The Missions Show? Have you been blessed by the show? Then become a Premium Subscriber! Premium Subscribers get access to: Exclusive bonus content A community Signal thread with other listeners and the hosts Invite-only webinars A free gift! Support The Missions Show and sign up to be a Premium Subscriber at missionsshow.com/premium The Missions Show is powered by ABWE. Learn more and take your next step in the Great Commission at abwe.org. Want to ask a question or suggest a topic? Email alex@missionsshow.com.

How do we exercise discernment on the mission field? In this episode of The Missions Show, Alex and Scott examine common misunderstandings about global persecution and why discernment is essential when evaluating reports of suffering in the church. Drawing from missionary experience, they explain that persecution is not always dramatic or violent, but often appears as marginalization, stigma, or family rejection. They caution against glamorizing persecuted believers or assuming their theology is automatically superior. The conversation also explores a biblical theology of generalizations and discernment, looking at Titus 1 and Philippians 1 as guides for thinking clearly and loving wisely. Rather than reacting to headlines or stereotypes, believers are called to exercise Spirit-shaped discernment—rejecting error, approving what is excellent, and praying faithfully for the global church amid complex situations. Key Topics: Misconceptions about persecution in American evangelicalism The many forms persecution can take The danger of romanticizing suffering Biblical generalizations and cultural discernment (Titus 1) Discernment as a pathway to mature love (Phil. 1) Applying discernment to modern persecution claims (e.g., Nigeria) Do you love The Missions Show? Have you been blessed by the show? Then become a Premium Subscriber! Premium Subscribers get access to: Exclusive bonus content A community Signal thread with other listeners and the hosts Invite-only webinars A free gift! Support The Missions Show and sign up to be a Premium Subscriber at missionsshow.com/premium The Missions Show is powered by ABWE. Learn more and take your next step in the Great Commission at abwe.org. Want to ask a question or suggest a topic? Email alex@missionsshow.com.

How do believers respond to the situation in Iran? In this episode, Scott Dunford talks with “Sam,” an ABWE missionary serving Persian and Iranian communities, about the crisis gripping Iran. Looking at ancient Persia's biblical roots, home of Daniel and Esther, to the 1979 Islamic Revolution that installed a Shiite theocracy, Iran's story is both historic and volatile. Sam explains the regime's ideology, the nationwide uprisings across hundreds of cities, and the crushing reality facing ordinary Iranians amid economic collapse and violent repression. Yet in the shadows of persecution, the gospel is advancing. Iran's underground house church movement continues to grow despite infiltration, imprisonment, and the killing of pastors and believers. Drawing from firsthand connections inside the country, Sam calls the global church to pray, stand with suffering Christians, and boldly engage Iranian neighbors with truth and hope. Key Topics Iran's biblical and ancient Persian heritage The 1979 Islamic Revolution and rise of the ayatollahs Shiite apocalyptic theology and its political implications Widespread protests and violent government crackdowns Economic crisis, corruption, and regional proxy conflicts The growth of Iran's underground house church movement Practical encouragement for connecting with Iranian neighbors *The views expressed in this episode are those solely of the participants and do not necessarily align with the views of ABWE or all of its representatives. Do you love The Missions Show? Have you been blessed by the show? Then become a Premium Subscriber! Premium Subscribers get access to: Exclusive bonus content A community Signal thread with other listeners and the hosts Invite-only webinars A free gift! Support The Missions Show and sign up to be a Premium Subscriber at missionsshow.com/premium The Missions Show is powered by ABWE. Learn more and take your next step in the Great Commission at abwe.org. Want to ask a question or suggest a topic? Email alex@missionsshow.com.

This week Alex and Scott are joined by ABWE missionary and Western Europe regional director Kyle Farran to explore what true, godly grit looks like in ministry. Rather than defining resilience by personality or overcoming high-pressure moments, they discuss grit as being formed through daily faithfulness, perseverance in the mundane, and steady trust in the Lord. Farran shares insights from Scripture and decades of missionary experience to show that spiritual grit is earned over time, not summoned on demand. This conversation challenges pastors, missionaries, and ministry leaders to embrace hard things with confidence rooted in who God is, not merely in understanding His plans. Key Topics The difference between worldly grit and biblical resilience Why daily faithfulness matters more than dramatic moments Trusting God's character in seasons of uncertainty How adversity forms long-term ministry endurance Balancing courage, character, and consistency in leadership Find more from Kyle Farran by visiting kylefarran.com. You can pre-order his new book, "Godly Grit: Unshakable Resilience and Grit for Life and Leadership" on Amazon. Do you love The Missions Show? Have you been blessed by the show? Then become a Premium Subscriber! Premium Subscribers get access to: Exclusive bonus content A community Signal thread with other listeners and the hosts Invite-only webinars A free gift! Support The Missions Show and sign up to be a Premium Subscriber at missionsshow.com/premium The Missions Show is powered by ABWE. Learn more and take your next step in the Great Commission at abwe.org. Want to ask a question or suggest a topic? Email alex@missionsshow.com.

Can reaching Thailand be the key to reaching all of Southeast Asia? In this episode of The Missions Show, Alex sits down with ABWE missionary Benjamin Collins to discuss gospel work in Thailand, a nation with long-standing missionary access yet less than one percent Christian. Ben shares about his role supporting church planters across the country and explains why Thailand remains a crucial missions field where evangelism, discipleship, and leadership development are all urgently needed. The conversation highlights the importance of long-term missions, language learning, and cultural understanding, as well as the growing collaboration among Thai churches to reach their nation together. Ben also reflects on ministry among at-risk communities in Bangkok, the hope he sees in emerging Thai leaders, and Thailand's strategic role as a hub for reaching Southeast Asia with the gospel. Key Topics Thailand's spiritual landscape and the state of the church Church planting and gospel collaboration across denominations Ministry among at-risk children and marginalized communities Contextualizing the gospel in shame- and fear-based cultures Thailand as a strategic hub for reaching Southeast Asia Do you love The Missions Show? Have you been blessed by the show? Then become a Premium Subscriber! Premium Subscribers get access to: Exclusive bonus content A community Signal thread with other listeners and the hosts Invite-only webinars A free gift! Support The Missions Show and sign up to be a Premium Subscriber at missionsshow.com/premium The Missions Show is powered by ABWE. Learn more and take your next step in the Great Commission at abwe.org. Want to ask a question or suggest a topic? Email alex@missionsshow.com.

What can the Puritans teach us about missions? This week, Alex is joined by Stephen Yuille, director of Puritan Publishing at Reformation Heritage Books, to explore who the Puritans really were and why they still matter for missions today. Yuille challenges common cultural caricatures of Puritanism, explaining that the Puritans were not merely dour moralists but a vibrant movement of pastors and theologians marked by a deep, heartfelt devotion to Christ that went beyond intellectual assent. The conversation traces how this Christ-centered theology fueled a genuine evangelistic and missionary impulse. Although the Puritans lived before what we now call “modern missions,” they were deeply concerned with the spread of the gospel, both within nominally Christian societies and among unreached peoples as the world began to open through exploration. Key Topics Covered Who the Puritans were—and why modern stereotypes about them are misleading The relationship between Reformation theology and evangelistic zeal How Puritan theology influenced William Carey and later global missions The centrality of Christ's glory as the motivation for missions Want more content from The Missions Show? Become a premium subscriber and get access to the Overtime segment where Alex and Stephen Yuille discuss what the Puritans can teach us about how to deal with weariness and fear in ministry. Sign up at missionsshow.com/premium. Do you love The Missions Show? Have you been blessed by the show? Then become a Premium Subscriber! Premium Subscribers get access to: Exclusive bonus content A community Signal thread with other listeners and the hosts Invite-only webinars A free gift! Support The Missions Show and sign up to be a Premium Subscriber at missionsshow.com/premium The Missions Show is powered by ABWE. Learn more and take your next step in the Great Commission at abwe.org. Want to ask a question or suggest a topic? Email alex@missionsshow.com.

Has global missions strayed from a reformed foundation? In this episode of The Missions Show, Alex and Scott talk with Pastor Jerry Slate Jr. to discuss the theological foundations and practical realities of faithful reformed missionary work. The conversation centers on the question of what sustains missionaries through hardship, rejection, and long seasons of discouragement. Jerry, Alex, and Scott emphasize the central role of the local church in sending, vetting, and sustaining missionaries, warning against outsourcing this responsibility entirely to parachurch organizations. The episode highlights the need to tether missiology firmly to historic Christian theology, confessional faith, and biblical ecclesiology. Check out Jerry Slate Jr.'s new book, Reforming World Missions from Founders Press. Follow Jerry's church Berean Baptist Church in Powder Springs, Georgia. Find sermon audio here. Key Topics Perseverance in missions grounded in the worth and glory of God The relationship between theology proper and missionary motivation Critiques of pragmatic and movement-driven missiology The local church as the primary sending and overseeing body for missions The importance of biblically qualified leadership and discipleship Recovering historic, confessional theology in global missions Do you love The Missions Show? Have you been blessed by the show? Then become a Premium Subscriber! Premium Subscribers get access to: Exclusive bonus content A community Signal thread with other listeners and the hosts Invite-only webinars A free gift! Support The Missions Show and sign up to be a Premium Subscriber at missionsshow.com/premium The Missions Show is powered by ABWE. Learn more and take your next step in the Great Commission at abwe.org. Want to ask a question or suggest a topic? Email alex@missionsshow.com.

Do you believe miracles can still happen? In this episode of The Missions Show, Scott is joined by Dr. Darren Carlson—pastor, author, and founder of Training Leaders International—to discuss the ongoing work of God as revealed in the book of Acts and experienced around the world today. Drawing from Carlson's new book, Witness: Missional Devotions from the Book of Acts, the conversation explores whether Acts should be viewed merely as a historical account or as an invitation to expect God's continued unusual activity through the church. Scott and Darren wrestle honestly with the tension between miracles and the “grind” of everyday ministry. Through global mission stories, pastoral experiences, and personal encounters, Carlson emphasizes that God is actively at work—often beyond our narrow expectations. By telling true stories of God's work, the church is strengthened, believers are made glad, and hope is restored even amid suffering, persecution, and apparent setbacks. Key Topics The book of Acts as a model for ongoing Christian mission, not just past history Balancing expectation for miracles with ordinary faithfulness in daily life Discernment amid exaggerated or false miracle claims Forced migration and persecution as catalysts for mission in Acts Storytelling as a means of encouraging believers and strengthening faith Do you love The Missions Show? Have you been blessed by the show? Then become a Premium Subscriber! Premium Subscribers get access to: Exclusive bonus content A community Signal thread with other listeners and the hosts Invite-only webinars A free gift! Support The Missions Show and sign up to be a Premium Subscriber at missionsshow.com/premium The Missions Show is powered by ABWE. Learn more and take your next step in the Great Commission at abwe.org. Want to ask a question or suggest a topic? Email alex@missionsshow.com.

What does missions look like in a global city like Paris, France? In this episode of The Missions Show, Alex and Scott are joined by pastor Billy Bean to discuss A City of Light, a short documentary exploring gospel work in Paris, France. Often overlooked as a missions field, Paris is presented as a strategic global city, shaped by history, migration, and secular ideology, whose influence extends far beyond Europe. Billy explains how missionaries and pastors in Paris seek to connect with deeply held French values—such as beauty, freedom, identity, and intellectual rigor—while confronting their limits and fulfilling their deepest longings through the gospel. View the film and learn more at https://christcovenant.com/acityoflight Key Topics Why Paris and Western Europe remain vital mission fields Global cities as strategic hubs for gospel influence The legacy of secularism and expressive individualism in French culture Contextualization: connecting, confronting, and fulfilling culture with the gospel Do you love The Missions Show? Have you been blessed by the show? Then become a Premium Subscriber! Premium Subscribers get access to: Exclusive bonus content A community Signal thread with other listeners and the hosts Invite-only webinars A free gift! Support The Missions Show and sign up to be a Premium Subscriber at missionsshow.com/premium The Missions Show is powered by ABWE. Learn more and take your next step in the Great Commission at abwe.org. Want to ask a question or suggest a topic? Email alex@missionsshow.com.

New year, new name. The Missions Podcast is now The Missions Show. Why the change? We're stepping into a video-first world. The show is now on NRBTV, with Lighthouse TV launching soon in central Pennsylvania. We've been on YouTube for some time, and this rebrand reflects a move beyond audio-only podcasting to serve a wider audience. What hasn't changed is the heart of the show. We'll keep the same format and the same purpose—answering hard questions in missiology, theology, and practice to help goers think and thinkers go. Thanks to everyone who's been with us since we launched in October 2017. We're grateful for the last eight years and excited for what's ahead.

In this week's episode, Alex and Scott welcome pastor Aaron Menikoff (Atlanta, USA) and pastor Harshit Singh (Lucknow, India) to discuss how evangelism and missions function through the local church, particularly in the Indian context. Drawing from their book Prioritizing Missions in the Church, Menikoff and Singh argue that missions should not be treated as a side program but as an outflow of ordinary, faithful church life. They emphasize that preaching, prayer, discipleship, and the ordinances—when practiced consistently—form the foundation through which God raises up and sends missionaries to the nations. The conversation highlights how this church-centered approach applies across cultures, including settings with limited resources and growing opposition to Christianity. Key Topics Missions as the beating heart of the local church, not a side program The role of ordinary means of grace (preaching, prayer, ordinances) in global missions A biblical definition of missions as crossing cultural, linguistic, and geographic barriers Practical ways churches can embed missions into regular church life Discipleship and long-term theological training for future missionaries Do you love The Missions Podcast? Have you been blessed by the show? Then become a Premium Subscriber! Premium Subscribers get access to: Exclusive bonus content A community Signal thread with other listeners and the hosts Invite-only webinars A free gift! Support The Missions Podcast and sign up to be a Premium Subscriber at missionspodcast.com/premium The Missions Podcast is powered by ABWE. Learn more and take your next step in the Great Commission at abwe.org. Want to ask a question or suggest a topic? Email alex@missionspodcast.com.

In this episode of The Missions Podcast, Alex welcomes returning guest Matt Rhodes—missionary, church planter among Muslims, and author to discuss his new book Persecution in Missions: A Practical Theology. Together they discuss that persecution is not an anomaly but a normative feature of Christian life and global missions, especially in unreached contexts. While Western Christians may experience lesser forms of opposition, believers in Muslim, Hindu, and Buddhist-majority regions often face severe social, legal, and physical threats. Rhodes emphasizes that persecution profoundly shapes missionary strategy, discipleship, and the lived faith of new believers, often acting as a major barrier to people even hearing the gospel. Drawing from Scripture and church history, Rhodes cautions against both romanticizing martyrdom and avoiding suffering altogether. Key Topics Persecution as a normative (but varied) aspect of the Christian life How persecution shapes missions in unreached and restricted-access regions Biblical guidance on when missionaries should stay versus flee The danger of romanticizing martyrdom in missions culture Historical and biblical examples of faithful suffering and prudent withdrawal Do you love The Missions Podcast? Have you been blessed by the show? Then become a Premium Subscriber! Premium Subscribers get access to: Exclusive bonus content A community Signal thread with other listeners and the hosts Invite-only webinars A free gift! Support The Missions Podcast and sign up to be a Premium Subscriber at missionspodcast.com/premium The Missions Podcast is powered by ABWE. Learn more and take your next step in the Great Commission at abwe.org. Want to ask a question or suggest a topic? Email alex@missionspodcast.com.

Come celebrate another year of The Missions Podcast! In this special end-of-the-year episode, Alex and Scott recall their favorite discussions from 2025 and important takeaways from each. They also discuss how they are using this holiday season to celebrate the incarnation of Christ. Become a Missions Podcast Premium Subscriber and get access to our exclusive Overtime episode where Alex and Scott talk about their LEAST favorite episodes from the past year. Do you love The Missions Podcast? Have you been blessed by the show? Then become a Premium Subscriber! Premium Subscribers get access to: Exclusive bonus content A community Signal thread with other listeners and the hosts Invite-only webinars A free gift! Support The Missions Podcast and sign up to be a Premium Subscriber at missionspodcast.com/premium The Missions Podcast is powered by ABWE. Learn more and take your next step in the Great Commission at abwe.org. Want to ask a question or suggest a topic? Email alex@missionspodcast.com.

What's the spiritual climate like in Bangladesh? In this week's episode, Scott interviews Pastor Prodip Das, a Bengali church planter in New York City with ABWE's EveryEthne ministry. Together, they discuss the unique nature and conflict of Christianity and Islam within Bangladesh. Prodip tells his personal testimony and what it is like growing up in a Christian family in the country. Prodip also talks about his ministry within New York City and discipling Muslim-background believers. Key Topics The history of ABWE ministry in Bangladesh Prodip's personal testimony of growing up a Christian in Bangladesh The nature of persecution of Muslim-background believers in Bangladesh Prodip's church planting ministry in New York City Do you love The Missions Podcast? Have you been blessed by the show? Then become a Premium Subscriber! Premium Subscribers get access to: Exclusive bonus content A community Signal thread with other listeners and the hosts Invite-only webinars A free gift! Support The Missions Podcast and sign up to be a Premium Subscriber at missionspodcast.com/premium The Missions Podcast is powered by ABWE. Learn more and take your next step in the Great Commission at abwe.org. Want to ask a question or suggest a topic? Email alex@missionspodcast.com.

Why is Japan the graveyard of missionaries? In this episode, Alex talks with veteran ABWE missionary Bill Petite, who reflects on 35 years of ministry in Japan. Bill gives an honest look at the spiritual, cultural, and emotional realities of serving in one of the world's least-reached nations. Bill Petite also speaks candidly about the emotional and spiritual toll of long-term missions, sharing seasons of deep depression, discouragement, and even suicidal thoughts—contrasted with stories of God's surprising providence. Key Topics The paradox of Japan's high morality and deep spiritual lostness Cultural barriers to understanding sin and truth Challenges of contextualization and discipleship in Japanese culture Japan as a “graveyard of missionaries” and the emotional cost of ministry Japan's critical need for pastors, church planters, and long-term missionaries Do you love The Missions Podcast? Have you been blessed by the show? Then become a Premium Subscriber! Premium Subscribers get access to: Exclusive bonus content A community Signal thread with other listeners and the hosts Invite-only webinars A free gift! Support The Missions Podcast and sign up to be a Premium Subscriber at missionspodcast.com/premium The Missions Podcast is powered by ABWE. Learn more and take your next step in the Great Commission at abwe.org. Want to ask a question or suggest a topic? Email alex@missionspodcast.com.

How does the gospel transcend cultural understandings like guilt/innocence, honor/shame? In this episode, Alex is joined by longtime friend of the show, Dr. E.D. Burns, a missionary, author, and ABWE's Executive Director for Training & Development. E.D. argues that many modern missionary methods fall into error by beginning with culture rather than Scripture. When missionaries adapt the message to perceived cultural needs: fear of spirits, desire for honor, community belonging, they risk redefining the gospel according to those felt needs instead of the Bible's central categories of sin, wrath, substitutionary atonement, and the imputed righteousness of Christ. Dr. Burns illustrates how hyper-contextualized approaches can subtly blend works and faith, especially in cultures comfortable with karmic or performance-based religion. True gospel communication, he argues, must highlight penal substitution, justification by faith alone, and the supernatural transformation of the heart. Key Topics The danger of culture-first vs. Bible-first missionary methods How methodology reveals underlying theology on the mission field The insufficiency of presenting the gospel only through honor/shame or fear/power lenses The centrality of penal substitutionary atonement and imputed righteousness The perennial battle to preserve faith alone in cultures predisposed to works-based religion Do you love The Missions Podcast? Have you been blessed by the show? Then become a Premium Subscriber! Premium Subscribers get access to: Exclusive bonus content A community Signal thread with other listeners and the hosts Invite-only webinars A free gift! Support The Missions Podcast and sign up to be a Premium Subscriber at missionspodcast.com/premium The Missions Podcast is powered by ABWE. Learn more and take your next step in the Great Commission at abwe.org. Want to ask a question or suggest a topic? Email alex@missionspodcast.com.

In this episode of The Missions Podcast, Alex Kocman and ABWE President, Paul Davis, interview Ted Esler, president of Missio Nexus, on the global state of Christian missions. Esler explains that although the global church is experiencing slow and steady growth, many evangelical churches lack a strong understanding of lostness which has contributed to a decline in missionary sending and passion. Cultural pressures, including accusations of colonialism and a general decrease in missions literacy, have also shaped a generation of believers who are less aware of the biblical and historical urgency of reaching the nations. Ted emphasizes that missions is woven throughout the entire biblical narrative—from Genesis to Revelation—and that God's heart for diverse peoples should dismantle misconceptions of missions as cultural imperialism. Key Topics Covered The need for a renewed understanding of lostness in evangelical churches How cultural narratives about colonialism affect missions engagement The redemptive arc of Scripture as essential for missions literacy A biblical theology of the nations and God's purpose for cultural diversity The importance of knowing the current global state of missions Do you love The Missions Podcast? Have you been blessed by the show? Then become a Premium Subscriber! Premium Subscribers get access to: Exclusive bonus content A community Signal thread with other listeners and the hosts Invite-only webinars A free gift! Support The Missions Podcast and sign up to be a Premium Subscriber at missionspodcast.com/premium The Missions Podcast is powered by ABWE. Learn more and take your next step in the Great Commission at abwe.org. Want to ask a question or suggest a topic? Email alex@missionspodcast.com.

What's happening with persecuted Christians in Nigeria? In this episode of the Missions Podcast, Alex and Scott talk with Larry Alex Taunton, an author and apologist, who shares his firsthand experience witnessing Christian persecution in Nigeria. Taunton recounts his journey to the country's northern region, where he saw the devastating effects of what he calls a “genocide against Christians.” He describes traveling through burned villages, military checkpoints, and communities living in constant fear of attacks by Boko Haram and Fulani militants. Through personal experience, Taunton highlights the courage of Nigerian Christians who remain steadfast in their faith despite extreme danger. His central message is that the Western church has largely ignored this persecution, and that believers in safer nations must recognize their responsibility to speak out and advocate for action. Alex and Scott end with a call to combine compassion, truth, and courage—to both confront injustice and advance the mission of Christ. Key Topics: Larry Taunton's firsthand experience in northern Nigeria and exposure to Christian persecution. The role of Boko Haram and Fulani herdsmen in anti-Christian violence. The silence and suppression of the issue by Western media and international organizations. The moral and spiritual responsibility of the Western church to respond. Do you love The Missions Podcast? Have you been blessed by the show? Then become a Premium Subscriber! Premium Subscribers get access to: Exclusive bonus content A community Signal thread with other listeners and the hosts Invite-only webinars A free gift! Support The Missions Podcast and sign up to be a Premium Subscriber at missionspodcast.com/premium The Missions Podcast is powered by ABWE. Learn more and take your next step in the Great Commission at abwe.org. Want to ask a question or suggest a topic? Email alex@missionspodcast.com.

Is it true that the "blood of the martyrs is the seed of the church"? In this episode, Alex and Scott challenge the popular belief that persecution is inherently good for the church. Drawing from Ronald Boyd-MacMillan's article Does Persecution Always Bring Growth?, they argue that while persecution can refine believers, history shows it often destroys the local church entirely. They distinguish between short, intense persecution that may spark renewal and long-term systemic persecution that weakens or eliminates the church altogether. Alex and Scott discuss that Christians should not romanticize suffering and realize that persecution is a valuable tool that Satan uses against God's people. They stress the importance of religious freedom, both for evangelism and human dignity, urging Christians to defend it globally, and ultimately, they conclude that while God can bring good from persecution, it should never be desired or celebrated. Key Topics Misconceptions about persecution as beneficial for church growth Historical examples where persecution led to church extinction (e.g., Uyghur, Arabic, and Mongol eras) Distinction between short-term vs. long-term persecution effects The role of religious freedom in advancing the gospel Biblical and historical perspectives on persecution and faithfulness Do you love The Missions Podcast? Have you been blessed by the show? Then become a Premium Subscriber! Premium Subscribers get access to: Exclusive bonus content A community Signal thread with other listeners and the hosts Invite-only webinars A free gift! Support The Missions Podcast and sign up to be a Premium Subscriber at missionspodcast.com/premium The Missions Podcast is powered by ABWE. Learn more and take your next step in the Great Commission at abwe.org. Want to ask a question or suggest a topic? Email alex@missionspodcast.com.

Does your pastor adequately prioritize missions at your church? In this episode of The Missions Podcast, Alex interviews Matthew Ellison and Denny Spitters from 1615 Missions Coaching about their new book, The Sending Shepherd: Leading Churches to Disciple All Nations. Drawing from a Barna study, the conversation centers on the vital role of church leadership in global missions. They argue that effective mobilization starts with senior pastors embracing a “sending shepherd” mindset—reintegrating God's global purpose into preaching, discipleship, and church culture rather than treating missions as an optional program. They encourage pastors to see missions not as one ministry among many, but as the core narrative of Scripture shaping every believer's role in God's redemptive story. The discussion closes with success stories of integrating missions into the church, practical encouragement for pastors, and a reminder that mobilizing for the Great Commission is both essential for the world and for the church's spiritual health. Key Topics Findings from the Barna “U.S. Pastors and Missions Survey” The problem of “when everything is missions, nothing is missions” Leadership's critical role in shaping global vision (Antioch model from Acts 13) The difference between marginalizing missions and integrating it into the church's DNA Importance of defining and distinguishing evangelism, outreach, and missions Do you love The Missions Podcast? Have you been blessed by the show? Then become a Premium Subscriber! Premium Subscribers get access to: Exclusive bonus content A community Signal thread with other listeners and the hosts Invite-only webinars A free gift! Support The Missions Podcast and sign up to be a Premium Subscriber at missionspodcast.com/premium The Missions Podcast is powered by ABWE. Learn more and take your next step in the Great Commission at abwe.org. Want to ask a question or suggest a topic? Email alex@missionspodcast.com.

How does the Nicene Creed unite believers from East and West? This episode of The Missions Podcast—in collaboration with Cedar Crest Bible Fellowship Church's Captivate & Conform podcast—features Dr. Don Fairbairn, a theologian and former missionary to Soviet Georgia. The conversation explores the intersection of missions, theology, and church history, particularly how the Nicene Creed and patristic theology offer transcultural insight for modern missiology. Dr. Fairbairn shares his journey from seminary to the mission field and how his time in Eastern Europe reshaped his academic focus on Eastern Orthodoxy and early church thought. He emphasizes that the early church's theology was already multilingual and multicultural, forged by African and Asian theologians rather than Europeans—a reminder that Christianity's foundations are inherently global. Fairbairn advocates for retrieving the transcultural truths of the Nicene Creed and a deeper understanding of the relational nature of salvation. Key Topics: The transcultural and multilingual origins of the Nicene Creed Differences between Eastern Orthodox and Western (Protestant) theology The concept of divine acceptance vs. human striving for God How patristic theology informs modern missiology The importance of understanding the Trinity in global missions Do you love The Missions Podcast? Have you been blessed by the show? Then become a Premium Subscriber! Premium Subscribers get access to: Exclusive bonus content A community Signal thread with other listeners and the hosts Invite-only webinars A free gift! Support The Missions Podcast and sign up to be a Premium Subscriber at missionspodcast.com/premium The Missions Podcast is powered by ABWE. Learn more and take your next step in the Great Commission at abwe.org. Want to ask a question or suggest a topic? Email alex@missionspodcast.com.

How does a visual representation of the world affect your overall world view? Alexand Scottdiscuss the spiritual and practical significance of maps in missionary work, exploring how maps not only display geography but also influence how Christians perceive the world's spiritual landscape. They trace the history of missionary mapping from figures like David Livingstone and William Carey, reflecting on how visual tools like the 10/40 Window have historically mobilized believers toward unreached regions. Alex and Scott emphasize that maps do more than expand awareness—they refine our worldview, highlighting both the vast need for the gospel and the ongoing progress of Christianity globally. They also stress the importance of using maps not only globally but locally—to visualize one's own city, region, and immediate mission field and argue for a balanced view that celebrates where the gospel has flourished while still acknowledging areas of spiritual darkness. Key Topics: The theological and historical role of maps in missions The concept and influence of the 10/40 Window How map design shapes worldview and missional focus The balance between global vision and local mission engagement God has already called many people to the mission field, but they need your support to get there. Help someone in Prefield get to where God is calling them by prayerfully supporting their ministry at abwe.org/Prefield. Do you love The Missions Podcast? Have you been blessed by the show? Then become a Premium Subscriber! Premium Subscribers get access to: Exclusive bonus content A community Signal thread with other listeners and the hosts Invite-only webinars A free gift! Support The Missions Podcast and sign up to be a Premium Subscriber at missionspodcast.com/premium The Missions Podcast is powered by ABWE. Learn more and take your next step in the Great Commission at abwe.org. Want to ask a question or suggest a topic? Email alex@missionspodcast.com.

What does church planting look like here in North America? In this episode, Alex and Scott talk with Dr. Clare Jewell, national representative of the GARBC and Executive Director with ABWE's EveryEthne, about the state of church planting in North America. Clare shares his journey from pastoral ministry to missions leadership, explaining his passion for helping churches reproduce and make disciples. While the U.S. is filled with churches, it remains the world's third-largest mission field. New church plants, Clare explains, are far more effective in reaching the lost than established congregations, and the focus must shift from programs to relationships. Jewell also addresses how churches can reach people “not like them”, to get beyond people that share the same demographics, moral code, or even religion. He highlights the growing hunger among younger generations for mentorship and authentic discipleship, seeing signs of renewed spiritual interest. Key Topics The need for disciple-making and church reproduction in North America Effectiveness of new church plants versus established churches Relational evangelism over program-driven ministry Engaging culture without compromising biblical truth Revitalizing the GARBC toward mission and interdependence Is God calling you to missions? ABWE can help you find the opportunities and support you need to bring the gospel to the nations, plant churches, and disciple believers. Start the conversation with us today at abwe.org/sendme. Do you love The Missions Podcast? Have you been blessed by the show? Then become a Premium Subscriber! Premium Subscribers get access to: Exclusive bonus content A community Signal thread with other listeners and the hosts Invite-only webinars A free gift! Support The Missions Podcast and sign up to be a Premium Subscriber at missionspodcast.com/premium The Missions Podcast is powered by ABWE. Learn more and take your next step in the Great Commission at abwe.org. Want to ask a question or suggest a topic? Email alex@missionspodcast.com.

Are small Bible colleges on life support in America? In this week's episode, Alex and Scott welcome Dr. Jim Lytle, former president of Clarks Summit University and former ABWE missionary to South Africa, to discuss the enduring importance of Christian institutions and the plight facing Bible colleges today. They explore how Bible colleges have historically served as crucial training grounds for mobilizing missionaries, shaping young believers' worldviews, and fostering a heart for cross-cultural ministry. Lytle emphasizes that the purpose of these schools was not only theological education but also defining reality for students—helping them see their lives in the context of God's global mission. They also address the challenges facing Christian higher education today, including declining enrollment, rising costs, parental hesitancy toward missions, and cultural changes that have shifted students' perspectives. They discuss the growing need for local churches to take on a greater role in developing and sending workers, the later age at which many missionaries are now mobilized, and the unique openness of Gen Z to purpose-driven and clearly defined callings. Key Topics The role of Christian institutions like Bible colleges in missions mobilization and shaping students' worldview and calling Challenges for Christian higher education (enrollment, finances, cultural shifts) Trends in mobilizing Gen Z for missions and ministry Need for clearly defined, purpose-driven calls to action Explore your calling to global missions at ABWE's 24-Hour DEMO event. These events, held throughout the year, help individuals and churches explore how they can help fulfill the Great Commission and explore God's calling on their life and church. Learn more at demo.abwe.org and register with promocode: PODCAST. Do you love The Missions Show? Have you been blessed by the show? Then become a Premium Subscriber! Premium Subscribers get access to: Exclusive bonus content A community Signal thread with other listeners and the hosts Invite-only webinars A free gift! Support The Missions Show and sign up to be a Premium Subscriber at missionsshow.com/premium The Missions Show is powered by ABWE. Learn more and take your next step in the Great Commission at abwe.org. Want to ask a question or suggest a topic? Email alex@missionsshow.com.

Are small Bible colleges on life support in America? In this week's episode, Alex and Scott welcome Dr. Jim Lytle, former president of Clarks Summit University and former ABWE missionary to South Africa, to discuss the enduring importance of Christian institutions and the plight facing Bible colleges today. They explore how Bible colleges have historically served as crucial training grounds for mobilizing missionaries, shaping young believers' worldviews, and fostering a heart for cross-cultural ministry. Lytle emphasizes that the purpose of these schools was not only theological education but also defining reality for students—helping them see their lives in the context of God's global mission. They also address the challenges facing Christian higher education today, including declining enrollment, rising costs, parental hesitancy toward missions, and cultural changes that have shifted students' perspectives. They discuss the growing need for local churches to take on a greater role in developing and sending workers, the later age at which many missionaries are now mobilized, and the unique openness of Gen Z to purpose-driven and clearly defined callings. Key Topics The role of Christian institutions like Bible colleges in missions mobilization and shaping students' worldview and calling Challenges for Christian higher education (enrollment, finances, cultural shifts) Trends in mobilizing Gen Z for missions and ministry Need for clearly defined, purpose-driven calls to action Explore your calling to global missions at ABWE's 24-Hour DEMO event. These events, held throughout the year, help individuals and churches explore how they can help fulfill the Great Commission and explore God's calling on their life and church. Learn more at demo.abwe.org and register with promocode: PODCAST. Do you love The Missions Podcast? Have you been blessed by the show? Then become a Premium Subscriber! Premium Subscribers get access to: Exclusive bonus content A community Signal thread with other listeners and the hosts Invite-only webinars A free gift! Support The Missions Podcast and sign up to be a Premium Subscriber at missionspodcast.com/premium The Missions Podcast is powered by ABWE. Learn more and take your next step in the Great Commission at abwe.org. Want to ask a question or suggest a topic? Email alex@missionspodcast.com.

What does being a missionary look like among a totally unreached Muslim majority people group? In this week's episode, Alex and Scott sit down with Alan, an ABWE missionary serving in North Africa, who shares his experience of seeing God work in incredible ways among an unreached people group. Despite having a lucrative career in corporate America, Alan felt the call to go preach the gospel to unreached Muslim people, all at the age of 50. Alan shares personal stories about the risks and rewards of serving in an unreached context. He also talks about what he sees as being his biggest need on the field. Read about Alan's full story in ABWE's Message Magazine. Click here. To connect with Alan, email alex @ missionsshow.com. You can also support his ministry by giving here. Key Topics: Alan's call to ministry. From apathy to having a heart for unreached Muslims. Using a business platform as a means to church planting Personal story about Youssef coming to Christ and then his whole family The biggest need on the field in North Africa. Being a godly husband and father isn't about one big heroic act, it's about showing up every day. Men need a simple, practical plan to stay faithful in the daily grind. How To Lead Your Family is a no-nonsense guide, from author Joel Beeke, that gives the biblical foundation, Christ-centered encouragement, practical advice for men to purse the high standards that God calls them too. Get 20% off your copy today when you use the promo code: LEADABWE. Additionally, new email subscribers can get 10% off a future order. We are thankful for Reformation Heritage Books for their sponsorship of this episode! Do you love The Missions Show? Have you been blessed by the show? Then become a Premium Subscriber! Premium Subscribers get access to: Exclusive bonus content A community Signal thread with other listeners and the hosts Invite-only webinars A free gift! Support The Missions Show and sign up to be a Premium Subscriber at missionsshow.com/premium The Missions Show is powered by ABWE. Learn more and take your next step in the Great Commission at abwe.org. Want to ask a question or suggest a topic? Email alex@missionsshow.com.

What does being a missionary look like among a totally unreached Muslim majority people group? In this week's episode, Alex and Scott sit down with Alan, an ABWE missionary serving in North Africa, who shares his experience of seeing God work in incredible ways among an unreached people group. Despite having a lucrative career in corporate America, Alan felt the call to go preach the gospel to unreached Muslim people, all at the age of 50. Alan shares personal stories about the risks and rewards of serving in an unreached context. He also talks about what he sees as being his biggest need on the field. Read about Alan's full story in ABWE's Message Magazine. Click here. To connect with Alan, email alex @ missionspodcast.com. You can also support his ministry by giving here. Key Topics: Alan's call to ministry. From apathy to having a heart for unreached Muslims. Using a business platform as a means to church planting Personal story about Youssef coming to Christ and then his whole family The biggest need on the field in North Africa. Being a godly husband and father isn't about one big heroic act, it's about showing up every day. Men need a simple, practical plan to stay faithful in the daily grind. How To Lead Your Family is a no-nonsense guide, from author Joel Beeke, that gives the biblical foundation, Christ-centered encouragement, practical advice for men to purse the high standards that God calls them too. Get 20% off your copy today when you use the promo code: LEADABWE. Additionally, new email subscribers can get 10% off a future order. We are thankful for Reformation Heritage Books for their sponsorship of this episode! Do you love The Missions Podcast? Have you been blessed by the show? Then become a Premium Subscriber! Premium Subscribers get access to: Exclusive bonus content A community Signal thread with other listeners and the hosts Invite-only webinars A free gift! Support The Missions Podcast and sign up to be a Premium Subscriber at missionspodcast.com/premium The Missions Podcast is powered by ABWE. Learn more and take your next step in the Great Commission at abwe.org. Want to ask a question or suggest a topic? Email alex@missionspodcast.com.

Can AI technology shortcut language barriers for the gospel? Alex Kocman and Scott Dunford explore the connection between language, culture, and gospel communication. They discuss Apple's new AirPods Pro 3 with Live Translation and explain why technology can't replace the slow, intentional work of learning a language. Scott shares personal stories from learning Mandarin, showing how culture shapes meaning and how simple translation can miss the point. They also warn against reductionistic approaches to missions that downplay language learning and rely too much on quick methods. God Himself prepared a cultural framework over centuries for Christ's coming, which shows why missionaries must engage deeply with local language and culture to clearly communicate the gospel. Key Topics Apple AirPods Pro 3 with Live Translationand the excitement and limitations for missions work Language and culture as inseparable How language shapes thought and the need for teaching new concepts Cultural literacy and understanding local history, customs, and “insider language” Being a godly husband and father isn't about one big heroic act, it's about showing up every day. Men need a simple, practical plan to stay faithful in the daily grind. How To Lead Your Family is a no-nonsense guide, from author Joel Beeke, that gives the biblical foundation, Christ-centered encouragement, practical advice for men to purse the high standards that God calls them too. Get 20% off your copy today when you use the promo code: LEADABWE. Additionally, new email subscribers can get 10% off a future order. We are thankful for Reformation Heritage Books for their sponsorship of this episode! Do you love The Missions Show? Have you been blessed by the show? Then become a Premium Subscriber! Premium Subscribers get access to: Exclusive bonus content A community Signal thread with other listeners and the hosts Invite-only webinars A free gift! Support The Missions Show and sign up to be a Premium Subscriber at missionsshow.com/premium The Missions Show is powered by ABWE. Learn more and take your next step in the Great Commission at abwe.org. Want to ask a question or suggest a topic? Email alex@missionsshow.com.

Can AI technology shortcut language barriers for the gospel? Alex Kocman and Scott Dunford explore the connection between language, culture, and gospel communication. They discuss Apple's new AirPods Pro 3 with Live Translation and explain why technology can't replace the slow, intentional work of learning a language. Scott shares personal stories from learning Mandarin, showing how culture shapes meaning and how simple translation can miss the point. They also warn against reductionistic approaches to missions that downplay language learning and rely too much on quick methods. God Himself prepared a cultural framework over centuries for Christ's coming, which shows why missionaries must engage deeply with local language and culture to clearly communicate the gospel. Key Topics Apple AirPods Pro 3 with Live Translationand the excitement and limitations for missions work Language and culture as inseparable How language shapes thought and the need for teaching new concepts Cultural literacy and understanding local history, customs, and “insider language” Being a godly husband and father isn't about one big heroic act, it's about showing up every day. Men need a simple, practical plan to stay faithful in the daily grind. How To Lead Your Family is a no-nonsense guide, from author Joel Beeke, that gives the biblical foundation, Christ-centered encouragement, practical advice for men to purse the high standards that God calls them too. Get 20% off your copy today when you use the promo code: LEADABWE. Additionally, new email subscribers can get 10% off a future order. We are thankful for Reformation Heritage Books for their sponsorship of this episode! Do you love The Missions Podcast? Have you been blessed by the show? Then become a Premium Subscriber! Premium Subscribers get access to: Exclusive bonus content A community Signal thread with other listeners and the hosts Invite-only webinars A free gift! Support The Missions Podcast and sign up to be a Premium Subscriber at missionspodcast.com/premium The Missions Podcast is powered by ABWE. Learn more and take your next step in the Great Commission at abwe.org. Want to ask a question or suggest a topic? Email alex@missionspodcast.com.

Can empathy be a bad thing? This week, Alex and Scott sit down with Joe Rigney, Fellow of Theology at New Saint Andrew's College and pastor, as they explore the challenges of Christian leadership, ministry, and missions, and the dangers of emotional sabotage and untethered empathy. Rigney explains that in times of turmoil, leaders must maintain mission clarity and resist being derailed by reactive or manipulative pressures within their organizations. Joe Rigney discusses that rather than being an unqualified good, empathy can be wielded as emotional blackmail, steering ministries away from their God-given purposes. They also focus on principles of mobilization and missions. Rigney stresses that appeals to missions should be rooted not in guilt but in gratitude, joy, and faith in God's future grace. Key Topics The concept of mission drift and how institutions get derailed in anxious times Difference between biblical compassion and untethered empathy The dangers of empathy as emotional blackmail and manipulation How appeals to missions should be based on truth and joy, not guilt Building sober-minded, resilient leaders who can withstand cultural and emotional pressures Being a godly husband and father isn't about one big heroic act, it's about showing up every day. Men need a simple, practical plan to stay faithful in the daily grind. How To Lead Your Family is a no-nonsense guide, from author Joel Beeke, that gives the biblical foundation, Christ-centered encouragement, practical advice for men to purse the high standards that God calls them too. Get 20% off your copy today when you use the promo code: LEADABWE. Additionally, new email subscribers can get 10% off a future order. We are thankful for Reformation Heritage Books for their sponsorship of this episode! Do you love The Missions Show? Have you been blessed by the show? Then become a Premium Subscriber! Premium Subscribers get access to: Exclusive bonus content A community Signal thread with other listeners and the hosts Invite-only webinars A free gift! Support The Missions Show and sign up to be a Premium Subscriber at missionsshow.com/premium The Missions Show is powered by ABWE. Learn more and take your next step in the Great Commission at abwe.org. Want to ask a question or suggest a topic? Email alex@missionsshow.com.

Can empathy be a bad thing? This week, Alex and Scott sit down with Joe Rigney, Fellow of Theology at New Saint Andrew's College and pastor, as they explore the challenges of Christian leadership, ministry, and missions, and the dangers of emotional sabotage and untethered empathy. Rigney explains that in times of turmoil, leaders must maintain mission clarity and resist being derailed by reactive or manipulative pressures within their organizations. Joe Rigney discusses that rather than being an unqualified good, empathy can be wielded as emotional blackmail, steering ministries away from their God-given purposes. They also focus on principles of mobilization and missions. Rigney stresses that appeals to missions should be rooted not in guilt but in gratitude, joy, and faith in God's future grace. Key Topics The concept of mission drift and how institutions get derailed in anxious times Difference between biblical compassion and untethered empathy The dangers of empathy as emotional blackmail and manipulation How appeals to missions should be based on truth and joy, not guilt Building sober-minded, resilient leaders who can withstand cultural and emotional pressures Being a godly husband and father isn't about one big heroic act, it's about showing up every day. Men need a simple, practical plan to stay faithful in the daily grind. How To Lead Your Family is a no-nonsense guide, from author Joel Beeke, that gives the biblical foundation, Christ-centered encouragement, practical advice for men to purse the high standards that God calls them too. Get 20% off your copy today when you use the promo code: LEADABWE. Additionally, new email subscribers can get 10% off a future order. We are thankful for Reformation Heritage Books for their sponsorship of this episode! Do you love The Missions Podcast? Have you been blessed by the show? Then become a Premium Subscriber! Premium Subscribers get access to: Exclusive bonus content A community Signal thread with other listeners and the hosts Invite-only webinars A free gift! Support The Missions Podcast and sign up to be a Premium Subscriber at missionspodcast.com/premium The Missions Podcast is powered by ABWE. Learn more and take your next step in the Great Commission at abwe.org. Want to ask a question or suggest a topic? Email alex@missionspodcast.com.

In this special, unplanned episode, Alex and Scott share their raw reflections on this week's wicked events and how mission-minded Christians must respond in the present hour.

In this special, unplanned episode, Alex and Scott share their raw reflections on this week's wicked events and how mission-minded Christians must respond in the present hour.

Does studying classical philosophy have any relevance for missions today? In this episode, Alex and Scott talk with Dr. David Talcott, a philosopher and faculty member at New Saint Andrew's College, to discuss the intersection of philosophy, culture, and missions. They ask the famous question “What hath Athens to do with Jerusalem?”—whether philosophy and Scripture can meaningfully interact. Drawing from Acts 17, they explore how Paul's intellectual preparation and knowledge of Greek culture allowed him to engage with Stoic and Epicurean philosophers, modeling how missionaries today should understand and address the intellectual frameworks of their host cultures. The discussion broadens into how classical philosophy, particularly Plato and Aristotle, still speaks into modern challenges such as relativism, skepticism, and materialism. Dr. Talcott emphasizes that philosophy provides categories and arguments that can prepare hearts and minds for the gospel, acting as a kind of “preparatory grace.” Key Topics Covered: The question: “What hath Athens to do with Jerusalem?”—philosophy and theology in harmony Acts 17 as a model for missionary engagement with culture and thought Relevance of classical philosophy for confronting modern ideologies (materialism, relativism, skepticism) The role of “common grace” in pagan philosophies and cultures The movement to retrieve classical theology and its value for missions today Being a godly husband and father isn't about one big heroic act, it's about showing up every day. Men need a simple, practical plan to stay faithful in the daily grind. How To Lead Your Family is a no-nonsense guide, from author Joel Beeke, that gives the biblical foundation, Christ-centered encouragement, practical advice for men to purse the high standards that God calls them too. Get 20% off your copy today when you use the promo code: LEADABWE. Additionally, new email subscribers can get 10% off a future order. We are thankful for Reformation Heritage Books for their sponsorship of this episode! Do you love The Missions Show? Have you been blessed by the show? Then become a Premium Subscriber! Premium Subscribers get access to: Exclusive bonus content A community Signal thread with other listeners and the hosts Invite-only webinars A free gift! Support The Missions Show and sign up to be a Premium Subscriber at missionsshow.com/premium The Missions Show is powered by ABWE. Learn more and take your next step in the Great Commission at abwe.org. Want to ask a question or suggest a topic? Email alex@missionsshow.com.

Does studying classical philosophy have any relevance for missions today? In this episode, Alex and Scott talk with Dr. David Talcott, a philosopher and faculty member at New Saint Andrew's College, to discuss the intersection of philosophy, culture, and missions. They ask the famous question “What hath Athens to do with Jerusalem?”—whether philosophy and Scripture can meaningfully interact. Drawing from Acts 17, they explore how Paul's intellectual preparation and knowledge of Greek culture allowed him to engage with Stoic and Epicurean philosophers, modeling how missionaries today should understand and address the intellectual frameworks of their host cultures. The discussion broadens into how classical philosophy, particularly Plato and Aristotle, still speaks into modern challenges such as relativism, skepticism, and materialism. Dr. Talcott emphasizes that philosophy provides categories and arguments that can prepare hearts and minds for the gospel, acting as a kind of “preparatory grace.” Key Topics Covered: The question: “What hath Athens to do with Jerusalem?”—philosophy and theology in harmony Acts 17 as a model for missionary engagement with culture and thought Relevance of classical philosophy for confronting modern ideologies (materialism, relativism, skepticism) The role of “common grace” in pagan philosophies and cultures The movement to retrieve classical theology and its value for missions today Being a godly husband and father isn't about one big heroic act, it's about showing up every day. Men need a simple, practical plan to stay faithful in the daily grind. How To Lead Your Family is a no-nonsense guide, from author Joel Beeke, that gives the biblical foundation, Christ-centered encouragement, practical advice for men to purse the high standards that God calls them too. Get 20% off your copy today when you use the promo code: LEADABWE. Additionally, new email subscribers can get 10% off a future order. We are thankful for Reformation Heritage Books for their sponsorship of this episode! Do you love The Missions Podcast? Have you been blessed by the show? Then become a Premium Subscriber! Premium Subscribers get access to: Exclusive bonus content A community Signal thread with other listeners and the hosts Invite-only webinars A free gift! Support The Missions Podcast and sign up to be a Premium Subscriber at missionspodcast.com/premium The Missions Podcast is powered by ABWE. Learn more and take your next step in the Great Commission at abwe.org. Want to ask a question or suggest a topic? Email alex@missionspodcast.com.

How do you fully understand and explain the work of Jesus on the cross? In this episode, Alex and Scott explore the doctrine of the atonement, focusing on the concept of Penal Substitutionary Atonement (PSA) and contrasting it with other historical and theological views. The discussion walks through various atonement theories—including the Moral Influence, Ransom, and Christus Victor views and more—acknowledging elements of truth in each while highlighting their limitations compared to PSA. Lastly, they discuss the missiological implications, countering the claim that PSA is purely a Western, legalistic construct. Instead, they stress that guilt and innocence are universal moral realities recognized across cultures, and missionaries should faithfully present the biblical doctrine while adapting metaphors and illustrations for local understanding. Key Topics Importance of understanding the atonement for cross-cultural missions. Overview of major atonement theories: Moral Influence, Ransom, Christus Victor, Satisfaction, Governmental, and Scapegoat. Strengths and weaknesses of each theory compared to Penal Substitutionary Atonement (PSA). Scriptural foundations for PSA and its theological depth. Addressing the critiques of PSA. Practical considerations for contextualizing PSA in missionary work. Download the transcript for this episode. Being a godly husband and father isn't about one big heroic act, it's about showing up every day. Men need a simple, practical plan to stay faithful in the daily grind. How To Lead Your Family is a no-nonsense guide, from author Joel Beeke, that gives the biblical foundation, Christ-centered encouragement, practical advice for men to purse the high standards that God calls them too. Get 20% off your copy today when you use the promo code: LEADABWE. Additionally, new email subscribers can get 10% off a future order. We are thankful for Reformation Heritage Books for their sponsorship of this episode! Do you love The Missions Show? Have you been blessed by the show? Then become a Premium Subscriber! Premium Subscribers get access to: Exclusive bonus content A community Signal thread with other listeners and the hosts Invite-only webinars A free gift! Support The Missions Show and sign up to be a Premium Subscriber at missionsshow.com/premium The Missions Show is powered by ABWE. Learn more and take your next step in the Great Commission at abwe.org. Want to ask a question or suggest a topic? Email alex@missionsshow.com.

How do you fully understand and explain the work of Jesus on the cross? In this episode, Alex and Scott explore the doctrine of the atonement, focusing on the concept of Penal Substitutionary Atonement (PSA) and contrasting it with other historical and theological views. The discussion walks through various atonement theories—including the Moral Influence, Ransom, and Christus Victor views and more—acknowledging elements of truth in each while highlighting their limitations compared to PSA. Lastly, they discuss the missiological implications, countering the claim that PSA is purely a Western, legalistic construct. Instead, they stress that guilt and innocence are universal moral realities recognized across cultures, and missionaries should faithfully present the biblical doctrine while adapting metaphors and illustrations for local understanding. Key Topics Importance of understanding the atonement for cross-cultural missions. Overview of major atonement theories: Moral Influence, Ransom, Christus Victor, Satisfaction, Governmental, and Scapegoat. Strengths and weaknesses of each theory compared to Penal Substitutionary Atonement (PSA). Scriptural foundations for PSA and its theological depth. Addressing the critiques of PSA. Practical considerations for contextualizing PSA in missionary work. Download the transcript for this episode. Being a godly husband and father isn't about one big heroic act, it's about showing up every day. Men need a simple, practical plan to stay faithful in the daily grind. How To Lead Your Family is a no-nonsense guide, from author Joel Beeke, that gives the biblical foundation, Christ-centered encouragement, practical advice for men to purse the high standards that God calls them too. Get 20% off your copy today when you use the promo code: LEADABWE. Additionally, new email subscribers can get 10% off a future order. We are thankful for Reformation Heritage Books for their sponsorship of this episode! Do you love The Missions Podcast? Have you been blessed by the show? Then become a Premium Subscriber! Premium Subscribers get access to: Exclusive bonus content A community Signal thread with other listeners and the hosts Invite-only webinars A free gift! Support The Missions Podcast and sign up to be a Premium Subscriber at missionspodcast.com/premium The Missions Podcast is powered by ABWE. Learn more and take your next step in the Great Commission at abwe.org. Want to ask a question or suggest a topic? Email alex@missionspodcast.com.