Podcasts about global christianity

Together, the adherents of Christianity and Islam make up over half of the world's population, and their numbers are expected to keep growing. The influence of these two faiths—and their relations with each other—is seen in politics, economics, and social interactions. Religious identity and aspirations remain powerful and appealing to people around the world. Understanding global realities today requires understanding the histories and dynamics of the world's largest religions. This book provides a comprehensive overview of Christianity and Islam, covering three interrelated areas: historical developments and encounters, the influence of religion on politics, and religious beliefs and worldviews. Wafik W. Wahba highlights key points of similarity and difference and particular factors that contributed to divergence between the Western world and the Muslim world. Exploring the various narratives that have shaped both Christianity and Islam, he argues, is crucial to understanding current trends in Christian-Muslim interactions and their impact on future relations between the two communities globally. Drawing from decades of experience teaching around the world, Wahba clarifies core beliefs that influence the actions of Muslims and Christians and their attitudes toward the other faith. Global Christianity and Islam: Exploring History, Politics, and Beliefs (InterVarsity Press, 2025) demonstrates how learning from the past should help us avoid repeating mistakes in interactions between religious communities. Dave Broucek, retired missionary, mission educator and mission administrator, is a lifelong learner in the field of global mission. He values authors who provide critical reflection on the history, theology and practice of Christian mission and considers it a privilege to host author interviews to disseminate their work to a wider public. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices Support our show by becoming a premium member! https://newbooksnetwork.supportingcast.fm/religion

Together, the adherents of Christianity and Islam make up over half of the world's population, and their numbers are expected to keep growing. The influence of these two faiths—and their relations with each other—is seen in politics, economics, and social interactions. Religious identity and aspirations remain powerful and appealing to people around the world. Understanding global realities today requires understanding the histories and dynamics of the world's largest religions. This book provides a comprehensive overview of Christianity and Islam, covering three interrelated areas: historical developments and encounters, the influence of religion on politics, and religious beliefs and worldviews. Wafik W. Wahba highlights key points of similarity and difference and particular factors that contributed to divergence between the Western world and the Muslim world. Exploring the various narratives that have shaped both Christianity and Islam, he argues, is crucial to understanding current trends in Christian-Muslim interactions and their impact on future relations between the two communities globally. Drawing from decades of experience teaching around the world, Wahba clarifies core beliefs that influence the actions of Muslims and Christians and their attitudes toward the other faith. Global Christianity and Islam: Exploring History, Politics, and Beliefs (InterVarsity Press, 2025) demonstrates how learning from the past should help us avoid repeating mistakes in interactions between religious communities. Dave Broucek, retired missionary, mission educator and mission administrator, is a lifelong learner in the field of global mission. He values authors who provide critical reflection on the history, theology and practice of Christian mission and considers it a privilege to host author interviews to disseminate their work to a wider public. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices Support our show by becoming a premium member! https://newbooksnetwork.supportingcast.fm/islamic-studies

Together, the adherents of Christianity and Islam make up over half of the world's population, and their numbers are expected to keep growing. The influence of these two faiths—and their relations with each other—is seen in politics, economics, and social interactions. Religious identity and aspirations remain powerful and appealing to people around the world. Understanding global realities today requires understanding the histories and dynamics of the world's largest religions. This book provides a comprehensive overview of Christianity and Islam, covering three interrelated areas: historical developments and encounters, the influence of religion on politics, and religious beliefs and worldviews. Wafik W. Wahba highlights key points of similarity and difference and particular factors that contributed to divergence between the Western world and the Muslim world. Exploring the various narratives that have shaped both Christianity and Islam, he argues, is crucial to understanding current trends in Christian-Muslim interactions and their impact on future relations between the two communities globally. Drawing from decades of experience teaching around the world, Wahba clarifies core beliefs that influence the actions of Muslims and Christians and their attitudes toward the other faith. Global Christianity and Islam: Exploring History, Politics, and Beliefs (InterVarsity Press, 2025) demonstrates how learning from the past should help us avoid repeating mistakes in interactions between religious communities. Dave Broucek, retired missionary, mission educator and mission administrator, is a lifelong learner in the field of global mission. He values authors who provide critical reflection on the history, theology and practice of Christian mission and considers it a privilege to host author interviews to disseminate their work to a wider public. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices Support our show by becoming a premium member! https://newbooksnetwork.supportingcast.fm/new-books-network

Together, the adherents of Christianity and Islam make up over half of the world's population, and their numbers are expected to keep growing. The influence of these two faiths—and their relations with each other—is seen in politics, economics, and social interactions. Religious identity and aspirations remain powerful and appealing to people around the world. Understanding global realities today requires understanding the histories and dynamics of the world's largest religions. This book provides a comprehensive overview of Christianity and Islam, covering three interrelated areas: historical developments and encounters, the influence of religion on politics, and religious beliefs and worldviews. Wafik W. Wahba highlights key points of similarity and difference and particular factors that contributed to divergence between the Western world and the Muslim world. Exploring the various narratives that have shaped both Christianity and Islam, he argues, is crucial to understanding current trends in Christian-Muslim interactions and their impact on future relations between the two communities globally. Drawing from decades of experience teaching around the world, Wahba clarifies core beliefs that influence the actions of Muslims and Christians and their attitudes toward the other faith. Global Christianity and Islam: Exploring History, Politics, and Beliefs (InterVarsity Press, 2025) demonstrates how learning from the past should help us avoid repeating mistakes in interactions between religious communities. Dave Broucek, retired missionary, mission educator and mission administrator, is a lifelong learner in the field of global mission. He values authors who provide critical reflection on the history, theology and practice of Christian mission and considers it a privilege to host author interviews to disseminate their work to a wider public. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Together, the adherents of Christianity and Islam make up over half of the world's population, and their numbers are expected to keep growing. The influence of these two faiths—and their relations with each other—is seen in politics, economics, and social interactions. Religious identity and aspirations remain powerful and appealing to people around the world. Understanding global realities today requires understanding the histories and dynamics of the world's largest religions. This book provides a comprehensive overview of Christianity and Islam, covering three interrelated areas: historical developments and encounters, the influence of religion on politics, and religious beliefs and worldviews. Wafik W. Wahba highlights key points of similarity and difference and particular factors that contributed to divergence between the Western world and the Muslim world. Exploring the various narratives that have shaped both Christianity and Islam, he argues, is crucial to understanding current trends in Christian-Muslim interactions and their impact on future relations between the two communities globally. Drawing from decades of experience teaching around the world, Wahba clarifies core beliefs that influence the actions of Muslims and Christians and their attitudes toward the other faith. Global Christianity and Islam: Exploring History, Politics, and Beliefs (InterVarsity Press, 2025) demonstrates how learning from the past should help us avoid repeating mistakes in interactions between religious communities. Dave Broucek, retired missionary, mission educator and mission administrator, is a lifelong learner in the field of global mission. He values authors who provide critical reflection on the history, theology and practice of Christian mission and considers it a privilege to host author interviews to disseminate their work to a wider public. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices Support our show by becoming a premium member! https://newbooksnetwork.supportingcast.fm/christian-studies

Choosing the Narrow Path in a World of 8 BillionScripture References: Matthew 7:13-14; Galatians 5:13-26; Matthew 24; John 15Sermon Notes:Intro: (Podcast intro music fades) Welcome to today's sermon. We are living in an unprecedented time – the population has exploded from 4 billion to over 8 billion in roughly one lifetime. It took all of human history until 1804 to reach 1 billion, yet we've added 4 billion recently. What is God doing? You have been chosen by God to be alive now, handpicked for the greatest potential harvest in history. He's setting the stage. But how do we partner with Him effectively in this unique moment? Jesus speaks of two paths: one wide and easy, chosen by most, leading to destruction; one narrow and difficult, leading to life (Matt 7:13-14). We're called to this narrow path. This path is vividly described in Galatians 5.Key Points: The Narrow Path (Galatians 5)Marked with Love & Service (v. 13-15): Live a life of constant love and committed service, not just to those like us, but to anyone in need (the Good Samaritan principle). Resist the end-times trend of love growing cold (Matt 24). True joy is found outside self-focus.Yielding to Purpose (v. 16): Yield to the Holy Spirit's power, abandoning self-life cravings. God has an incredible, unique purpose written for your life. Don't just coast; ask Him what it is for this season.Obedience (v. 17-21): Recognize the conflict between self-life (flesh) and the Spirit. Actively avoid sin ("obvious" behaviors listed). Obedience isn't a burden; it's the key to freedom, peace, and clarity.Full of Fruit (v. 22-23): The narrow path produces limitless spiritual fruit (love, joy, peace, patience, etc.) as we stay connected to God (John 15). The world needs to see this authentic fruit, not just gifts.Complete Surrender (v. 24): We who belong to Christ have crucified the self-life. This death to self is central. Surrender control ("dead people don't talk"). It's counter-cultural but leads to true freedom.Embracing God's Rhythms (v. 25): Live by the Spirit and keep in step with the Spirit. Honor His pacing, including rest (Sabbath) and the season you're in. Pursue holistic health.Humility (v. 26): Forsake arrogance, comparison, and jealousy. Value all people, made in God's image. Be quick to honor, bless, and build up, not tear down.Conclusion: The narrow path is challenging, yes, but it's glorious – it's what we were made for. Dissatisfaction often stems from settling for the wide road. A man from Iran's underground church, who met Jesus supernaturally, shared his struggle finding that same Jesus in American Christianity, asking, "I didn't know people like you [living the narrow way] existed." His words are haunting. The 8 billion people on this planet desperately need to know that Christians like you – committed to the narrow path of love, service, purpose, obedience, fruitfulness, surrender, rhythm, and humility – exist.Call to Action: Recognize the significance of this moment in history. Choose today: will you settle for the comfortable, wide-road Christianity, or will you embrace the narrow path where Jesus is? As for me and my house, we will serve the Lord. Commit to walking the narrow way outlined in Galatians 5. Let's be the people the world needs to see. Support the show*Summaries and transcripts are generated using AI. Please notify us if you find any errors.

Rick Joyner, bestselling author, prophet and founder of MorningStar Ministries, and author and associate pastor of MorningStar Ministries, Jeff Oliver, are our guests today! The two have co-authored the book: Keys to Experiencing Azusa Fire: Lessons from the Revival that Changed the Landscape of Global Christianity. Hear them share the history of the Revival including the roles of women, the leadership of William J. Seymour, and much more. Is there going to be another revival on the scale of Azusa Street? What will the End Time Harvest look like? Don't miss it!

In this episode, we delve into Aaron Earls' insightful article, "9 Encouraging Trends for Global Christianity in 2025," recently published by Lifeway Research. We explore the implications of these global developments for our local congregation and discuss why evangelism remains a cornerstone of the church's mission.As Christianity experiences significant growth in regions like Africa and Asia, what lessons can we learn to invigorate our local outreach efforts? How can we align with these encouraging trends to foster a thriving faith community?We also examine the indispensable role of evangelism in the local church. Sharing the gospel not only fulfills the Great Commission but also deepens our understanding of Scripture and strengthens our personal faith. By engaging in evangelism, we keep the gospel central in our lives and contribute to the spiritual growth of our community.Join us as we discuss practical strategies to embrace these global trends and reaffirm the importance of evangelism in our church's mission.https://research.lifeway.com/2025/02/11/9-encouraging-trends-for-global-christianity-in-2025/

In this episode I talk with Dr. Wafik Wahba, professor of global Christianity at Tyndale University in Toronto, Canada. His brand-new book Global Christianity and Islam: Exploring History, Politics, and Beliefs (out February 2025 on IVP), explores the complex history of the relationship between Christianity and Islam, how they have shaped the modern world, and their theological similarities and differences. We will discuss the intricate history of Christianity and Islam, how they have shaped both society and politics in the modern world, and how Christians and Muslims understand God, Jesus, human nature, salvation, and community. This is an excellent primer on both Islam and the deeply interconnected history of Christianity and Islam. Media Referenced:Global Christianity and Islam: https://a.co/d/bJvbiXOWafik Wahba Tyndale page: https://www.tyndale.ca/faculty/wafik-wahbaThe Protestant Libertarian Podcast is a project of the Libertarian Christian Institute and a part of the Christians For Liberty Network. The Libertarian Christian Institute can be found at www.libertarianchristians.com.Questions, comments, suggestions? Please reach out to me at theprotestantlibertarian@gmail.com.  You can also follow the podcast on Twitter: @prolibertypod, and Youtube, @ProLibertyPod, where you will get shorts and other exclusive video content. For more about the show, you can go to theprotestantlibertarianpodcast.com. If you like the show and want to support it, you can! Go to libertarianchristians.com, where you can donate to LCI and buy The Protestant Libertarian Podcast Merch! Also, please consider giving me a star rating and leaving me a review, it really helps expand the shows profile! Thanks!

It's New Year's Day, Wednesday, January 1st, A.D. 2025. This is The Worldview in 5 Minutes heard on 125 radio stations and at www.TheWorldview.com.  I'm Adam McManus. (Adam@TheWorldview.com) By Jonathan Clark Gunmen killed Columbian pastor and two family members Armed gunmen killed a Protestant pastor and two of his family members in northern Colombia on Sunday. The attackers killed Pastor Marlon Lora, his wife Yorley Rincon, and his daughter Ángela. His son Santiago was severely injured. The family was having lunch after attending church. Pastor Lora led the Prince of Peace Villaparaguay Church and oversaw 35 urban and rural churches.  The South American country's human rights office has warned of the rise of religious freedom violations against religious leaders. Such incidents rose 31% between January and September of last year. Anna Lee Stangl with Christian Solidarity Worldwide said, “Despite the grave dangers faced by religious leaders, the Colombian government has stripped them of their status within the National Protection System. … We urge the government to … ensure protection for religious leaders, who remain at risk of violence and intimidation because of their role as peacemakers in their communities.” In Matthew 5:9, Jesus said, “Blessed are the peacemakers, for they shall be called sons of God.” Brazilian government censors pro-life speech Five lawmakers in Brazil are challenging their government before the Inter-American Commission on Human Rights. The lawmakers accuse the government of censoring pro-life speech during the South American country's 2022 election cycle.  Senator Eduardo Girão is one of the lawmakers in the case. He warned, “Brazil is facing a very serious censorship problem. While our constitution protects our rights to speak and express ourselves freely as citizens of Brazil, Brazilians throughout the country are afraid to share their beliefs for fear of persecution and punishment.” World population hits 8 billion The U.S. Census Bureau released a report on Monday, estimating the world's population to reach 8.09 billion people. That would be an increase of 71 million people during 2024, a growth rate of just under one percent. India is the most populated country in the world followed by China and the United States. The report estimates the U.S. population to be over 341 million today, an increase of 2.6 million people during 2024. Trump strongly endorses House Speaker Mike Johnson to stay in leadership President-elect Donald Trump supported Republican House Speaker Mike Johnson to continue his leadership role in Congress. In a Truth Social post on Monday, Trump wrote, “Speaker Mike Johnson is a good, hard working, religious man. He will do the right thing, and we will continue to WIN. Mike has my Complete & Total Endorsement.” The House of Representatives will vote on a speaker this Friday. However, not all Republicans support Johnson to continue in the position, citing too much cooperation with Democrats. Free speech on college campus under attack in 2024 The Foundation for Individual Rights and Expression reports 2024 was the worst year on record for free speech on college campuses. During 2023, there were over 150 attempts to cancel speech at colleges like disinviting speakers, canceling performances, and preventing the screening of films. This year, there were over 160 such attempts.  The Foundation for Individual Rights and Expression also reports that 35% of faculty at major colleges self-censor their own speech. That's up from about 9% in the 1950s. 8 encouraging trends in global Christianity for 2024 Lifeway Research shared their top 10 articles from last year. One of them was an article entitled, “8 Encouraging Trends in Global Christianity for 2024.” The study noted Christianity is expected to continue growing, reaching 2.63 billion people last year. Groups with the fastest growth include Protestants, independents, Evangelicals, and Pentecostal/charismatics. The fastest growing areas for Christianity are in the global south, like Asia and Africa. Last year also continued the trend of more and more missionaries being sent and churches being planted than ever before. Psalm 22:27 says, “All the ends of the world shall remember and turn to the LORD, and all the families of the nations shall worship before You.”  Bald eagle becomes official American national bird And finally, the bald eagle officially became the national bird of the United States just last Tuesday. The designation became official after President Joe Biden signed legislation passed by Congress. The bald eagle has appeared on the Great Seal of the United States since 1782. Congress designated the bird as the national emblem at the time. Jack Davis, co-chair of the National Bird Initiative for the National Eagle Center, said, “For nearly 250 years, we called the bald eagle the national bird when it wasn't. But now the title is official, and no bird is more deserving.” The U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs notes, “Bald eagles, like other eagles worldwide, had been seen by many as symbols of strength, courage, freedom and immortality for generations. And, unlike other eagles, the bald eagle was indigenous only to North America.” Close And that's The Worldview on this New Year's Day, Wednesday, January 1st, in the year of our Lord 2025. Subscribe by Amazon Music or by iTunes or email to our unique Christian newscast at www.TheWorldview.com. Or get the Generations app through Google Play or The App Store. I'm Adam McManus (Adam@TheWorldview.com). Seize the day for Jesus Christ.

In this fascinating interview, Nathanael J. Homewood discusses his new book,Seductive Spirits: Deliverance, Demons, and Sexual Worldmaking in Ghanaian Pentecostalism (Stanford University Press, 2024). Pentecostalism, Africa's fastest-growing form of Christianity, has long been preoccupied with the business of banishing demons from human bodies. Among Ghanaian Pentecostals, deliverance is primary among the embodied, experiential gifts—a loud, messy, and noisy experience that ends only when the possessed body falls to the ground silent and docile, the evil spirits rendered powerless in the face of the holy spirit-wielding-prophets. And nowhere is Ghanaian Pentecostal obsession with demons more pronounced than with sexual demons. Homewood examines the frequent and varied experiences of spirit possession and sex with demons that constitute a vital part of Pentecostal deliverance ministries, offering insight into these practices assembled from long-term ethnographic engagement with four churches in Accra, the capital of Ghana. Relying on the uniqueness of the Pentecostal sensorium, this book unravels how spirits and sexuality intimately combine to expand the definition of the body beyond its fleshy boundaries. Demons are a knowledge regime, one that shapes how Pentecostals think about, engage with, and construct the cosmos. Deliverance Pentecostals reiterate and tarry with the demonic, especially sexually, as a realm of invention whereby alternative ways of being, sensing, and having sex are dreamed, practiced, and performed. Ultimately, Homewood argues for a distinction between colonial demonization and decolonial demons, charting another path to understanding being, the body, and sexualities. Nathanael Homewood is the Associate Director of Religious Studies at the University of Minnesota. His areas of specialty are global Christianity, religion and sexuality, African religion, and Pentecostalism. He has earned a B.A. in Political Science at the University of Western Ontario, an M.Div in Global Christianity from Yale Divinity School, an M.A. and Ph.D. in Religious Studies from Rice University. Jessie Cohen holds a Ph.D. in History from Columbia University, and is an editor at the New Books Network. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices Support our show by becoming a premium member! https://newbooksnetwork.supportingcast.fm/new-books-network

In this fascinating interview, Nathanael J. Homewood discusses his new book,Seductive Spirits: Deliverance, Demons, and Sexual Worldmaking in Ghanaian Pentecostalism (Stanford University Press, 2024). Pentecostalism, Africa's fastest-growing form of Christianity, has long been preoccupied with the business of banishing demons from human bodies. Among Ghanaian Pentecostals, deliverance is primary among the embodied, experiential gifts—a loud, messy, and noisy experience that ends only when the possessed body falls to the ground silent and docile, the evil spirits rendered powerless in the face of the holy spirit-wielding-prophets. And nowhere is Ghanaian Pentecostal obsession with demons more pronounced than with sexual demons. Homewood examines the frequent and varied experiences of spirit possession and sex with demons that constitute a vital part of Pentecostal deliverance ministries, offering insight into these practices assembled from long-term ethnographic engagement with four churches in Accra, the capital of Ghana. Relying on the uniqueness of the Pentecostal sensorium, this book unravels how spirits and sexuality intimately combine to expand the definition of the body beyond its fleshy boundaries. Demons are a knowledge regime, one that shapes how Pentecostals think about, engage with, and construct the cosmos. Deliverance Pentecostals reiterate and tarry with the demonic, especially sexually, as a realm of invention whereby alternative ways of being, sensing, and having sex are dreamed, practiced, and performed. Ultimately, Homewood argues for a distinction between colonial demonization and decolonial demons, charting another path to understanding being, the body, and sexualities. Nathanael Homewood is the Associate Director of Religious Studies at the University of Minnesota. His areas of specialty are global Christianity, religion and sexuality, African religion, and Pentecostalism. He has earned a B.A. in Political Science at the University of Western Ontario, an M.Div in Global Christianity from Yale Divinity School, an M.A. and Ph.D. in Religious Studies from Rice University. Jessie Cohen holds a Ph.D. in History from Columbia University, and is an editor at the New Books Network. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices Support our show by becoming a premium member! https://newbooksnetwork.supportingcast.fm/african-studies

In this fascinating interview, Nathanael J. Homewood discusses his new book,Seductive Spirits: Deliverance, Demons, and Sexual Worldmaking in Ghanaian Pentecostalism (Stanford University Press, 2024). Pentecostalism, Africa's fastest-growing form of Christianity, has long been preoccupied with the business of banishing demons from human bodies. Among Ghanaian Pentecostals, deliverance is primary among the embodied, experiential gifts—a loud, messy, and noisy experience that ends only when the possessed body falls to the ground silent and docile, the evil spirits rendered powerless in the face of the holy spirit-wielding-prophets. And nowhere is Ghanaian Pentecostal obsession with demons more pronounced than with sexual demons. Homewood examines the frequent and varied experiences of spirit possession and sex with demons that constitute a vital part of Pentecostal deliverance ministries, offering insight into these practices assembled from long-term ethnographic engagement with four churches in Accra, the capital of Ghana. Relying on the uniqueness of the Pentecostal sensorium, this book unravels how spirits and sexuality intimately combine to expand the definition of the body beyond its fleshy boundaries. Demons are a knowledge regime, one that shapes how Pentecostals think about, engage with, and construct the cosmos. Deliverance Pentecostals reiterate and tarry with the demonic, especially sexually, as a realm of invention whereby alternative ways of being, sensing, and having sex are dreamed, practiced, and performed. Ultimately, Homewood argues for a distinction between colonial demonization and decolonial demons, charting another path to understanding being, the body, and sexualities. Nathanael Homewood is the Associate Director of Religious Studies at the University of Minnesota. His areas of specialty are global Christianity, religion and sexuality, African religion, and Pentecostalism. He has earned a B.A. in Political Science at the University of Western Ontario, an M.Div in Global Christianity from Yale Divinity School, an M.A. and Ph.D. in Religious Studies from Rice University. Jessie Cohen holds a Ph.D. in History from Columbia University, and is an editor at the New Books Network. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices Support our show by becoming a premium member! https://newbooksnetwork.supportingcast.fm/anthropology

In this fascinating interview, Nathanael J. Homewood discusses his new book,Seductive Spirits: Deliverance, Demons, and Sexual Worldmaking in Ghanaian Pentecostalism (Stanford University Press, 2024). Pentecostalism, Africa's fastest-growing form of Christianity, has long been preoccupied with the business of banishing demons from human bodies. Among Ghanaian Pentecostals, deliverance is primary among the embodied, experiential gifts—a loud, messy, and noisy experience that ends only when the possessed body falls to the ground silent and docile, the evil spirits rendered powerless in the face of the holy spirit-wielding-prophets. And nowhere is Ghanaian Pentecostal obsession with demons more pronounced than with sexual demons. Homewood examines the frequent and varied experiences of spirit possession and sex with demons that constitute a vital part of Pentecostal deliverance ministries, offering insight into these practices assembled from long-term ethnographic engagement with four churches in Accra, the capital of Ghana. Relying on the uniqueness of the Pentecostal sensorium, this book unravels how spirits and sexuality intimately combine to expand the definition of the body beyond its fleshy boundaries. Demons are a knowledge regime, one that shapes how Pentecostals think about, engage with, and construct the cosmos. Deliverance Pentecostals reiterate and tarry with the demonic, especially sexually, as a realm of invention whereby alternative ways of being, sensing, and having sex are dreamed, practiced, and performed. Ultimately, Homewood argues for a distinction between colonial demonization and decolonial demons, charting another path to understanding being, the body, and sexualities. Nathanael Homewood is the Associate Director of Religious Studies at the University of Minnesota. His areas of specialty are global Christianity, religion and sexuality, African religion, and Pentecostalism. He has earned a B.A. in Political Science at the University of Western Ontario, an M.Div in Global Christianity from Yale Divinity School, an M.A. and Ph.D. in Religious Studies from Rice University. Jessie Cohen holds a Ph.D. in History from Columbia University, and is an editor at the New Books Network. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices Support our show by becoming a premium member! https://newbooksnetwork.supportingcast.fm/sociology

In this fascinating interview, Nathanael J. Homewood discusses his new book,Seductive Spirits: Deliverance, Demons, and Sexual Worldmaking in Ghanaian Pentecostalism (Stanford University Press, 2024). Pentecostalism, Africa's fastest-growing form of Christianity, has long been preoccupied with the business of banishing demons from human bodies. Among Ghanaian Pentecostals, deliverance is primary among the embodied, experiential gifts—a loud, messy, and noisy experience that ends only when the possessed body falls to the ground silent and docile, the evil spirits rendered powerless in the face of the holy spirit-wielding-prophets. And nowhere is Ghanaian Pentecostal obsession with demons more pronounced than with sexual demons. Homewood examines the frequent and varied experiences of spirit possession and sex with demons that constitute a vital part of Pentecostal deliverance ministries, offering insight into these practices assembled from long-term ethnographic engagement with four churches in Accra, the capital of Ghana. Relying on the uniqueness of the Pentecostal sensorium, this book unravels how spirits and sexuality intimately combine to expand the definition of the body beyond its fleshy boundaries. Demons are a knowledge regime, one that shapes how Pentecostals think about, engage with, and construct the cosmos. Deliverance Pentecostals reiterate and tarry with the demonic, especially sexually, as a realm of invention whereby alternative ways of being, sensing, and having sex are dreamed, practiced, and performed. Ultimately, Homewood argues for a distinction between colonial demonization and decolonial demons, charting another path to understanding being, the body, and sexualities. Nathanael Homewood is the Associate Director of Religious Studies at the University of Minnesota. His areas of specialty are global Christianity, religion and sexuality, African religion, and Pentecostalism. He has earned a B.A. in Political Science at the University of Western Ontario, an M.Div in Global Christianity from Yale Divinity School, an M.A. and Ph.D. in Religious Studies from Rice University. Jessie Cohen holds a Ph.D. in History from Columbia University, and is an editor at the New Books Network. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices Support our show by becoming a premium member! https://newbooksnetwork.supportingcast.fm/religion

In this fascinating interview, Nathanael J. Homewood discusses his new book,Seductive Spirits: Deliverance, Demons, and Sexual Worldmaking in Ghanaian Pentecostalism (Stanford University Press, 2024). Pentecostalism, Africa's fastest-growing form of Christianity, has long been preoccupied with the business of banishing demons from human bodies. Among Ghanaian Pentecostals, deliverance is primary among the embodied, experiential gifts—a loud, messy, and noisy experience that ends only when the possessed body falls to the ground silent and docile, the evil spirits rendered powerless in the face of the holy spirit-wielding-prophets. And nowhere is Ghanaian Pentecostal obsession with demons more pronounced than with sexual demons. Homewood examines the frequent and varied experiences of spirit possession and sex with demons that constitute a vital part of Pentecostal deliverance ministries, offering insight into these practices assembled from long-term ethnographic engagement with four churches in Accra, the capital of Ghana. Relying on the uniqueness of the Pentecostal sensorium, this book unravels how spirits and sexuality intimately combine to expand the definition of the body beyond its fleshy boundaries. Demons are a knowledge regime, one that shapes how Pentecostals think about, engage with, and construct the cosmos. Deliverance Pentecostals reiterate and tarry with the demonic, especially sexually, as a realm of invention whereby alternative ways of being, sensing, and having sex are dreamed, practiced, and performed. Ultimately, Homewood argues for a distinction between colonial demonization and decolonial demons, charting another path to understanding being, the body, and sexualities. Nathanael Homewood is the Associate Director of Religious Studies at the University of Minnesota. His areas of specialty are global Christianity, religion and sexuality, African religion, and Pentecostalism. He has earned a B.A. in Political Science at the University of Western Ontario, an M.Div in Global Christianity from Yale Divinity School, an M.A. and Ph.D. in Religious Studies from Rice University. Jessie Cohen holds a Ph.D. in History from Columbia University, and is an editor at the New Books Network. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In this fascinating interview, Nathanael J. Homewood discusses his new book,Seductive Spirits: Deliverance, Demons, and Sexual Worldmaking in Ghanaian Pentecostalism (Stanford University Press, 2024). Pentecostalism, Africa's fastest-growing form of Christianity, has long been preoccupied with the business of banishing demons from human bodies. Among Ghanaian Pentecostals, deliverance is primary among the embodied, experiential gifts—a loud, messy, and noisy experience that ends only when the possessed body falls to the ground silent and docile, the evil spirits rendered powerless in the face of the holy spirit-wielding-prophets. And nowhere is Ghanaian Pentecostal obsession with demons more pronounced than with sexual demons. Homewood examines the frequent and varied experiences of spirit possession and sex with demons that constitute a vital part of Pentecostal deliverance ministries, offering insight into these practices assembled from long-term ethnographic engagement with four churches in Accra, the capital of Ghana. Relying on the uniqueness of the Pentecostal sensorium, this book unravels how spirits and sexuality intimately combine to expand the definition of the body beyond its fleshy boundaries. Demons are a knowledge regime, one that shapes how Pentecostals think about, engage with, and construct the cosmos. Deliverance Pentecostals reiterate and tarry with the demonic, especially sexually, as a realm of invention whereby alternative ways of being, sensing, and having sex are dreamed, practiced, and performed. Ultimately, Homewood argues for a distinction between colonial demonization and decolonial demons, charting another path to understanding being, the body, and sexualities. Nathanael Homewood is the Associate Director of Religious Studies at the University of Minnesota. His areas of specialty are global Christianity, religion and sexuality, African religion, and Pentecostalism. He has earned a B.A. in Political Science at the University of Western Ontario, an M.Div in Global Christianity from Yale Divinity School, an M.A. and Ph.D. in Religious Studies from Rice University. Jessie Cohen holds a Ph.D. in History from Columbia University, and is an editor at the New Books Network. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In this fascinating interview, Nathanael J. Homewood discusses his new book,Seductive Spirits: Deliverance, Demons, and Sexual Worldmaking in Ghanaian Pentecostalism (Stanford University Press, 2024). Pentecostalism, Africa's fastest-growing form of Christianity, has long been preoccupied with the business of banishing demons from human bodies. Among Ghanaian Pentecostals, deliverance is primary among the embodied, experiential gifts—a loud, messy, and noisy experience that ends only when the possessed body falls to the ground silent and docile, the evil spirits rendered powerless in the face of the holy spirit-wielding-prophets. And nowhere is Ghanaian Pentecostal obsession with demons more pronounced than with sexual demons. Homewood examines the frequent and varied experiences of spirit possession and sex with demons that constitute a vital part of Pentecostal deliverance ministries, offering insight into these practices assembled from long-term ethnographic engagement with four churches in Accra, the capital of Ghana. Relying on the uniqueness of the Pentecostal sensorium, this book unravels how spirits and sexuality intimately combine to expand the definition of the body beyond its fleshy boundaries. Demons are a knowledge regime, one that shapes how Pentecostals think about, engage with, and construct the cosmos. Deliverance Pentecostals reiterate and tarry with the demonic, especially sexually, as a realm of invention whereby alternative ways of being, sensing, and having sex are dreamed, practiced, and performed. Ultimately, Homewood argues for a distinction between colonial demonization and decolonial demons, charting another path to understanding being, the body, and sexualities. Nathanael Homewood is the Associate Director of Religious Studies at the University of Minnesota. His areas of specialty are global Christianity, religion and sexuality, African religion, and Pentecostalism. He has earned a B.A. in Political Science at the University of Western Ontario, an M.Div in Global Christianity from Yale Divinity School, an M.A. and Ph.D. in Religious Studies from Rice University. Jessie Cohen holds a Ph.D. in History from Columbia University, and is an editor at the New Books Network. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices Support our show by becoming a premium member! https://newbooksnetwork.supportingcast.fm/christian-studies

How can the Seventh-day Adventist Church balance rapid growth with quality discipleship? Explore the challenges and opportunities of enhancing both membership numbers and spiritual depth in a changing global landscape. 

While the upcoming election is contentious to the point of violence, we as the church must band together in unity for the sake of the gospel. We must bring the good news of the gospel even to a bad situation because we are called to be the peacemakers even in the midst of chaos. Pastor Donnie McClurkin warned us not to be so blinded by politics that we forget to preach the good news of the gospel. Let us not compromise or stay silent. Although there are many opinions, everyone has a choice. So we should be the balance and not allow any of the wrangling to divide us. From the text in Matthew 24, PM confirmed that we are living in the season Jesus spoke of, where ethnic groups will contend with each other but regardless of it unfolding, we are called to preach the gospel into all the world. He concluded that this should be the church's true message and top priority.  Sermon Scriptures: Matthew 24:3-14; 2 Corinthians 6:17-18; Ephesians 2:8   We stream live every Sunday at 11 am ET and every Wednesday at 8 pm ET. Visit our website: https://perfectingfaithchurch.com  Connect with us on social media!  Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/PerfectingFaithChurch/  Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/perfectingfaithchurch/  Twitter: https://twitter.com/PFCNY  Tiktok: https://www.tiktok.com/@perfectingfaithchurch      

The 21st century has seen—and will continue to see—the rise of Christianity in the ‘Global South', with surging conversion numbers in Asia and Africa. That's according to Gina Zurlo, a leading authority on Christian demographics, and our guest on episode 75, ‘Global Christianity'. According to Gina, while the Western world is grappling with secularism, a new spiritual awakening of sorts is taking hold in the world's two most populous nations, China and India. This is our next Undeceptions Rewind, where we resurface some of the best bits of our older episodes that might have been mostly forgotten (but hopefully not misunderstood!) In this episode, we feature snippets of both Episode 17 'Hindu Priest', and Episode 75 'Global Christianity'. 

In this open and candid episode of the Expositors Collective podcast, Danijiel Zaharjanski shares his remarkable journey of being called by God to remain and serve in his homeland of Serbia, despite his initial plans to leave. Danijiel recounts how he and his wife, Wendy, planted a church in the city of Kragujevac, Central Serbia, where they've been living since 2012. Their church is one of only a very small handful of Protestant congregations south of the Danube River, which drives their mission to plant even more churches in the surrounding towns and villages in this under-reached region. The conversation explores Danijiel's reflections on American preachers, offering unique insights into cultural differences in preaching styles. More profoundly, Danijiel discusses the harsh reality that bad preaching and misguided theology can cause genuine harm to people's lives. His reflections highlight the importance of sound, gospel-centered preaching in ministry, particularly in a place where spiritual needs are great. Danijiel, Wendy, and their son, Tadija, continue their faithful work in Serbia, helping to bring the gospel to a region that desperately needs it. Recommended Resources:  Dr Jeremy Treat on the importance of learning from global Christianity:  https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/expositorscollective/episodes/Preaching-Teams--The-Treat-Sheet-and-Global-Christianity-with-Jeremy-Treat-e2c61sd/a-aakqvk4 Dr Timothy Keller on Gospel Centered Ministry (aka the podcast that changed Mike's life) https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=R3MO7CtP6WU  Theology for the People episode featuring Wendy Zahorjanski discussing her book Hard Is Only Half the Story: Real Adventures from My Journey into the Unknown https://nickcady.org/2024/04/24/hard-is-only-half-the-story-the-role-of-taking-steps-of-faith-spiritual-growth-with-wendy-zahorjanski/ Read more about her book here: https://calvarychapel.com/posts/new-book-hard-is-only-half-the-story-real-adventures-from-my-journey-into-the-unknown/ For information about our upcoming training events visit ExpositorsCollective.com  The Expositors Collective podcast is part of the CGNMedia, Working together to proclaim the Gospel, make disciples, and plant churches. For more content like this, visit https://cgnmedia.org/ Join our private Facebook group to continue the conversation: https://www.facebook.com/groups/ExpositorsCollective Donate to support the work of Expositors Collective, in person training events and a free weekly podcast: https://cgn.churchcenter.com/giving/to/expositors-collective

QUOTES FOR REFLECTION“This may surprise many, but Christianity is growing around the world and is growing faster than the rate of population. From 2020 to the mid-point of 2024, the world's population is expected to grow from more than 7.84 billion people to more than 8.11 billion, a 0.87% growth trend. The number of Christians worldwide is expected to climb from more than 2.52 billion to 2.63 billion, a 1.08% growth.… The fastest-growing areas for Christianity are in the global south, particularly Asia and Africa. Asia is home to more than 415 million Christians and growing at a rate of 2.11%. Meanwhile, 734 million Christians live in Africa, where the faith is growing at a 2.64% rate.”~Summary of the “2024 Status of Global Christianity” report “It is evidence of His importance, of the effect that He has had upon history, …that no other life ever lived on this planet has evoked so huge a volume of literature among so many people and languages, and that, far from ebbing, the flood continues to mount…. Jesus is the most influential life ever lived….”~Kenneth S. Latourette (1884-1968), President of the American Historical Association “Jesus loves sinners. He only loves sinners. He has never turned anyone away who came to Him for forgiveness, and He died on the cross for sinners, not for respectable people.”~Corrie ten Boom (1892-1983), Nazi concentration camp survivor “The church is…made up of natural enemies…who love one another for Jesus' sake.”~D.A. Carson in his book Love in Hard Places “If I love God, I must love people. I don't have the choice to choose when.”~Jackie Hill Perry, poet, writer, and hip hop artist “When we are powerless to do a thing, it is a great joy that we can come and step inside the ability of Jesus.”~Corrie ten Boom (1892-1983), Dutch watchmaker, writer and speaker “…but you will receive power when the Holy Spirit has come upon you; and you shall be My witnesses both in Jerusalem, and in all Judea and Samaria, and even to the remotest part of the earth.”~Jesus to His disciples (Acts 1:8) SERMON PASSAGEMatthew 28:16-20 (ESV)Matthew 28 16 Now the eleven disciples went to Galilee, to the mountain to which Jesus had directed them. 17 And when they saw him they worshiped him, but some doubted. 18 And Jesus came and said to them, “All authority in heaven and on earth has been given to me. 19 Go therefore and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit, 20 teaching them to observe all that I have commanded you. And behold, I am with you always, to the end of the age.” Genesis 12 1 Now the Lord said to Abram, “Go from your country and your kindred and your father's house to the land that I will show you. 2 And I will make of you a great nation, and I will bless you and make your name great, so that you will be a blessing. 3 I will bless those who bless you, and him who dishonors you I will curse, and in you all the families of the earth shall be blessed.” 2 Samuel 7 8 Now, therefore, thus you shall say to my servant David, ‘Thus says the Lord of hosts, I took you from the pasture, from following the sheep, that you should be prince over my people Israel. 9 And I have been with you wherever you went and have cut off all your enemies from before you. And I will make for you a great name, like the name of the great ones of the earth…. 12 When your days are fulfilled and you lie down with your fathers, I will raise up your offspring after you, who shall come from your body, and I will establish his kingdom. 13 He shall build a house for my name, and I will establish the throne of his kingdom forever. Isaiah 2 1 The word that Isaiah the son of Amoz saw concerning Judah and Jerusalem.2 It shall come to pass in the latter days that the mountain of the house of the Lord shall be established as the highest of the mountains,    and shall be lifted up above the hills; and all the nations shall flow to it,3 and many peoples shall come, and say:“Come, let us go up to the mountain of the Lord, to the house of the God of Jacob, that he may teach us his ways and that we may walk in his paths.” For out of Zion shall go forth the law, and the word of the Lord from Jerusalem. Matthew 1 1 The book of the genealogy of Jesus Christ, the son of David, the son of Abraham. Revelation 7 9 After this I looked, and behold, a great multitude that no one could number, from every nation, from all tribes and peoples and languages, standing before the throne and before the Lamb, clothed in white robes, with palm branches in their hands, 10 and crying out with a loud voice, “Salvation belongs to our God who sits on the throne, and to the Lamb!” 11 And all the angels were standing around the throne and around the elders and the four living creatures, and they fell on their faces before the throne and worshiped God, 12 saying, “Amen! Blessing and glory and wisdom and thanksgiving and honor and power and might be to our God forever and ever! Amen.” Revelation 22 1 Then the angel showed me the river of the water of life, bright as crystal, flowing from the throne of God and of the Lamb 2 through the middle of the street of the city; also, on either side of the river, the tree of life with its twelve kinds of fruit, yielding its fruit each month. The leaves of the tree were for the healing of the nations.

In Matthew 28:19–20, Jesus gave the Great Commission to the Church: “All authority in heaven and on earth has been given to me. Therefore go and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit, and teaching them to obey everything I have commanded you. And surely I am with you always, to the very end of the age.” Jesus' words are well known, but how well is the Church carrying out His commission? The Lausanne Movementexamines that question in depth in its State of the Great Commission Report.  In this episode of the Influence Podcast, I talk with Dr. Matthew Niermann about that report. I'm George P. Wood, executive editor of Influence magazine and your host. Dr. Niermann has served the Lausanne Movement since 2010 in a variety of roles, including research and operations. He is currently director of the State of the Great Commission Report. In addition, he serves as a dean and professor of architectural design at California Baptist University, where his research partially focuses on the relationship between creativity and Christian witness. ————— This episode of the Influence podcast is brought to you by My Healthy Church, distributors of NextGen High Scores. Grounded in research and illustrated with real-life experience, NextGen High Scores explains in practical language the most common behaviors, practices, and strategies of kids and youth pastors who make a lasting impact. For more information about NextGen High Scores visit MyHealthyChurch.com.

In this episode of the Lausanne Movement Podcast, we are joined by Dr. Gina Zurlo, co-director of the Center for the Study of Global Christianity and a leading expert on global trends within Christianity. Dr. Zurlo shares her groundbreaking research on the vital yet often overlooked contributions of women to the global church. Together, we explore the historical and contemporary roles of women in Christianity, the challenges they face, and the significant impact they continue to have on the spread of the faith. Dr. Zurlo's insights shed light on the importance of recognising and valuing the work of women in all areas of church life. Key Takeaways: Historical Contributions: Women have played a central role in the spread of Christianity from its earliest days, often serving as the first converts and primary evangelists in their communities. Modern-Day Impact: Women continue to play crucial roles in the global church, from grassroots evangelism to leadership in various ministries, despite facing significant challenges and underrepresentation in leadership positions. Practical Advice for Leaders: Dr. Zurlo emphasises the importance of listening to women within the church, creating safe spaces for them to share their experiences, and actively championing their contributions. If you enjoyed this episode, please subscribe to the Lausanne Movement Podcast. Leave us a review, and share this episode with your network. Visit our website for more resources and to stay updated on future episodes. Links & Resources: Dr. Gina Zurlo's Website: https://ginazurlo.com/ “Women in World Christianity: Building and Sustaining a Global Movement” by Gina Zurlo - https://www.wiley.com/en-sg/Women+in+World+Christianity%3A+Building+and+Sustaining+a+Global+Movement-p-9781119823773#download-product-flyer Center for the Study of Global Christianity - https://www.gordonconwell.edu/center-for-the-study-of-global-christianity/ World Christian Database - https://www.worldchristiandatabase.org/ "The Rise of Christianity" by Rodney Stark - https://www.harpercollins.com/products/the-rise-of-christianity-rodney-stark?variant=40923443814434 "World Christianity as a Woman's Movement" by Dr. Dana Robert   Dr. Gina Zurlo Bio: Dr. Gina A. Zurlo is co-director of the Center for the Study of Global Christianity at Gordon-Conwell Theological Seminary, and her research focuses on the demography of religion, World Christianity, sociology of religion, and women's studies. She is also a visiting research fellow at Boston University's Institute on Culture, Religion and World Affairs, where she works on the World Religion Database (Brill). Her most recent books include Global Christianity: A Guide to the World's Largest Religion from Afghanistan to Zimbabwe (Zondervan Academic, 2022), Women in World Christianity: Building and Sustaining a Global Movement (Wiley-Blackwell, 2023), and From Nairobi to the World: David B. Barrett and the Re-Imagining of World Christianity (Brill, 2023). She was named one of the BBC's 100 most inspiring and influential women of 2019 for her work in quantifying the religious future. We'd love your feedback to help us to improve this podcast. Thank you!

Kingdom Come: Medicine and the Next 100 Years of Global Christianity Medical missions is an effective door opener for the Gospel, historically and today. Is it possible for the Gospel to grow at the rate that it grew in the second and third centuries? This talk will focus on the why?...the how?...and the where? Session recorded on Friday, November 10th during Session Block #3 at 1:00 PM EST ; speaker: Ray Kuntz; John Mayer Session webpage: https://www.medicalmissions.com/events/gmhc-2023/sessions/circle-of-influence

Researchers say Christian leaders will embezzle an estimated $86 billion in 2024The Friendly Atheist, By Hemant Mehta, on Mar 20, 2024https://www.friendlyatheist.com/p/researchers-say-christian-leadersThe discussion delved into the issue of financial transparency and accountability within Christian organizations, particularly regarding the embezzlement of funds.Kelley Laughlin shed light on the alarming statistic that Christian leaders may embezzle over $80 billion annually by 2024, as reported by the Center for the Study of Global Christianity and the Trinity Foundation. This embezzlement includes practices like skimming from offering plates and diverting mission donations to personal expenses.The panelists highlighted the lack of financial oversight and transparency within religious institutions, emphasizing the need for routine audits, transparency measures, and consequences for illegal activities. They also discussed the pervasive influence of Christianity in American society, particularly in politics, and the challenges of holding religious organizations accountable due to societal norms and biases.Suggestions for addressing the issue included implementing stricter financial regulations, promoting transparency, and demanding accountability from religious institutions. Additionally, there were calls for reparations to congregations affected by financial mismanagement, including refunds or evidence of funds being used for their intended purposes.In a lighter tone, the panelists humorously proposed reparations in the form of amusement park trips and tangible improvements to church facilities, highlighting the long-standing issue of unfulfilled promises made to congregations for various projects.Overall, the conversation underscored the importance of financial integrity and accountability within religious institutions and called for greater scrutiny and regulation to prevent financial misconduct and protect congregational assets.The Non-Prophets, Episode 23.13.4 featuring Jimmy Jr., Blatant Blatheist , Cynthia McDonald and Kelley Laughlin

On this Ephesiology Podcast, Andrew and Michael are joined by Dr. Todd M. Johnson to discuss World Christianity in 2024. Join us for this fascinating conversation about the state of Christian unity, the growth of religion globally, and the increase in the numbers of missionaries around the world along with many other things. If you … Continue reading "Episode 165: Global Christianity with Todd Johnson"

Today, Lucas of the channel Deflate explains why he thinks a former pastor's reasons for leaving Christianity are bad.Cards:10 Things that Make No Sense about Christiantiy...#4 will BLOW YOUR MIND! (sorry I couldn't resist): (2:36)https://youtu.be/zkI1wxzPUisIs Hell Real?: (3:47)https://youtu.be/vSMbeEMCVdgChristian Claims that Hell Doesn't Exist?

It's Thursday, February 8th, A.D. 2024. This is The Worldview in 5 Minutes heard at www.TheWorldview.com. I'm Adam McManus. (Adam@TheWorldview.com) By Jonathan Clark Russian government persecuting Ukrainian believers Dmytro Lubinets with Human Rights in Ukraine reports that Russian forces have carried out 76 acts of religious persecution since invading Ukraine in 2022. Lubinets told the International Religious Freedom Summit last week, “The Russian military has repeatedly threatened the total physical elimination of all Evangelical believers, calling them American spies, sectarians, and enemies of the Russian Orthodox people.” The persecution incidents include 29 cases of killed or captured religious leaders. One pastor from Ukraine told the summit, “Most priests and pastors, like me, have been threatened, intimidated, humiliated, detained, beaten and deported.” Hungary helps persecuted Christians in 50 countries Speaking of the International Religious Freedom Summit, a representative of Hungary promoted Biblical values at the event in Washington, D.C. Tristan Azbej is the Hungarian Secretary of State for the Aid of Persecuted Christians and the Hungary Helps Program. Hungary established the program in 2017 as the first-ever governmental department dedicated to serving persecuted Christians. Since then, it has engaged in over 300 faith-based humanitarian projects in 50 countries.  Azbej told The Christian Post the program is part of Hungary's efforts to “implement the social teachings of the Bible.”  Wisdom says in Proverbs 8:15, “By me kings reign, and rulers decree justice.” Mexico is top exporter of goods to U.S. now Mexico became the top exporter of goods to the U.S. last year. This unseats China which held the top spot for two decades. In 2023, Mexico exported $475.6 billion worth of goods to the U.S., up 5% from 2022. Meanwhile, China exported $427.2 billion worth of goods to U.S., down 20% from 2022.  Also, the U.S. trade deficit fell 19% last year to $773.4 billion. It's the largest annual drop in the deficit in 15 years as the U.S. increased exports and decreased imports in 2023. The trade deficit measures the difference between exports and imports. RFK Jr: "NBC Nightly News declared it is no longer a two-man race, it's a three-man race" Independent presidential candidate Robert F. Kennedy Jr. has a reason to be excited, reports RealClear Politics.com. KENNEDY: “I want to take note of a poll that came out, reported by NBC News today, that shows that 34% of the country would vote for me. (cheers) “NBC Nightly News declared that it is no longer a two-man race, it is a three-man race. (cheers) And if you do the math, all I really need, theoretically, is 34 points to win the election because if it is a three-way tie, and I get 34, it is winner-take-all.” Texas' fertility rate up 2% A recent report from the University of Houston found that the fertility rate in Texas increased by 2% in 2022. This followed the state's Heartbeat Act going into effect in 2021. It's the first time the Texas fertility rate increased since 2014. Life News reports the Heartbeat Act translated into about 8,000 more children being born in the Lone Star state in 2022. Life News also noted a “35.7 percent decline in the Texas teen-fertility rate since 2016. Overall, the Lone Star State has seen impressive long-term reductions in teen pregnancies, teen births, and teen abortions.” United Church of Christ declines after pushing homosexual sin The United Church of Christ reports it lost 286,000 members from 2012 to 2022. The mainline Protestant denomination also lost over 500 congregations over the same time period.  It started to see significant losses after 2005 when it passed a resolution that year in favor of faux homosexual marriage. Just between 2020 and 2022, the United Church of Christ dropped from 4,794 congregations to 4,603 congregations. And membership declined from 773,000 to 712,000.  Americans view small businesses, the military and churches favorably Pew Research released a new survey on how Americans view institutions. U.S. adults are most likely to view small businesses positively at 86%, followed by the military at 60% and churches and religious organizations at 59%.  Americans are least likely to view large corporations positively at 29%, followed by banks at 37%, colleges at 53%, and public schools at 53%.  2.6 billion people worldwide identify as Christian And finally, the Center for the Study of Global Christianity released their 2024 report. The report estimates there will be about 2.6 billion people who identify as Christian this year.  Africa and Asia are home to some of the fastest growing Christian populations. About 734 million Christians live in Africa, and 425 million live in Asia, both with growth rates of over 2%.  Evangelical and Pentecostal groups are the fastest growing among Christian denominations. An estimated 445,000 will be sent out this year. And an estimated 28% of the world has no access to the Gospel, down from 54% back in 1900.  Speaking of Christ, Isaiah 9:7 says, “Of the increase of His government and peace there will be no end, upon the throne of David and over His kingdom, to order it and establish it with judgment and justice from that time forward, even forever. The zeal of the LORD of hosts will perform this.” Close And that's The Worldview in 5 Minutes on this Thursday, February 8th in the year of our Lord 2024. Subscribe by iTunes or email to our unique Christian newscast at www.TheWorldview.com. Or get the Generations app through Google Play or The App Store. I'm Adam McManus (Adam@TheWorldview.com). Seize the day for Jesus Christ.

On today's episode Heather visits with theologian and author K.A. Ellis—the initials stand for “Karen Angela”—to kick off our three-part series for February, “Listening to Black Creators.” Mrs. Ellis, who was 42 when she married her husband Carl, talks about the experiences of single women in the church, as well as the true meaning of the word widow (it's not just about the death of a spouse). She also offers practical wisdom for how to trust God's faithfulness and Christ's sufficiency when the way forward is anything but clear. K.A.'s latest book is called Fannie Lou Hamer: The Courageous Woman Who Marched for Dignity. The beautifully illustrated tome is ostensibly written to introduce children to the famed Civil Rights heroine, but older readers will also be captivated by this colorful retelling of Hamer's story. In just 24 pages, K.A. captures an indelible portrait of Hamer—the faithful Christian and defender of human dignity. And don't forget to check out the talk by K.A. that blew Heather away. Her message on “Loving the Widow” was given at The Gospel Coalition's 2018 Women's Pre-Conference in Indianapolis, Indiana. In the message, K.A. references the book Spiritual Widowhood by Andy Mendonsa. Elsewhere in the show, Heather also checks in with our favorite social media wiz Brady Shearer to get more tools for our Social Toolkit. Brady is the CEO of Pro Church Tools. His company helps churches navigate the biggest communication shift in 500 years. Guest Bio K.A. Ellis (Karen Angela Ellis) specializes in topics centering around World Christianity and Ethics, and she's passionate about preparing the next generations to live faithfully under anti-Christian hostility. Mrs. Ellis teaches and disciples young people at her local church on Bible and Global Christianity, and is the Director of the Edmiston Center at Reformed Theological Seminary in Atlanta, Georgia. She is also the Robert Cannada Fellow in World Christianity at Reformed Theological Seminary. Host Bio Heather Thompson Day is an associate professor of communication at Andrews University in Berrien Springs, Michigan. She is the author of eight books, including I'll See You Tomorrow and It's Not Your Turn. Reach out to Heather on X, the app formerly known as Twitter, at @HeatherTDay and on Instagram @heatherthompsonday. Get Heather's weekly inspirational email delivered to your inbox every Friday night at 7 p.m. EST. Sign up now at: www.heatherthompsonday.com/links. Viral Jesus is a production of Christianity Today Host and creator: Heather Thompson Day Executive Producer: Ed Gilbreath Producer: Loren Joseph Mix Engineer: Alex Carter Director of CT Podcasts: Mike Cosper Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

This week Chris and Jeremy talk about christianity from a global perspective. Chris shares about his recent trip to Vietnam, and they discuss youth ministry around the world. They are joined by a special guest to share his experience from West Africa.

The tradition is back! In this compelling episode, Chris Howles of For Every Nation joins the discussion to unveil his top 10 missions books to read in 2024. This episode is a treasure trove for anyone engaged in or interested in missions, offering insights that blend deep theological understanding with practical application in the mission field. A must-listen for those seeking to deepen their grasp of global missionary endeavors. 40 Questions About the Great Commission by Daniel Akin, Benjamin Merkle & George Robinson (Kregel Academic, 2020) The Sending Church Defined – 2nd edition by Bradley Bell (Upstream Collective, 2020) Global Humility: Attitudes for Mission by Andy McCullough (Malcolm Down Publishing Ltd, 2017) Global Christianity: A Guide to the World's Largest Religion from Afghanistan to Zimbabwe by Gina Zurlo (Zondervan, 2022) Apostolic Imagination: Recovering a Biblical Vision for the Church's Mission Today by J. D. Payne (Baker Academic, 2022) Re-imagining Short-Term Missions Edited by Forrest Inslee & Angel Burns (Wipf and Stock, 2022) Reading Hebrews Missiologically: The Missionary Motive, Message, and Methods of Hebrews Edited by Abeneazer G. Urga, Edward L. Smither, & Linda P. Saunders (William Carey Publishing, 2023) Mission Between the Times by C. René Padilla (Langham Books, 2010) Migration and the Making of Global Christianity by Jehu J. Hanciles (Wm. B. Eerdmans Publishing Co., 2021) Their Rock Is Not Like Our Rock: A Theology of Religions by Daniel Strange (Zondervan, 2015) This show is brought to you in part through partnership with Midwestern Seminary. Learn more about Midwestern and their For the Church Institute at ftcinstitute.com. Believe in our mission? Support the show at missionspodcast.com/support. The Missions Podcast is a ministry resource of ABWE. Learn more at abwe.org. Want to ask a question or suggest a topic? Email alex@missionspodcast.com.

In this episode of the Lausanne Movement Podcast we explore shifts in global Christianity with Dr Allen Yeh and Dr Matthew Niermann. Christianity is a dynamic and living faith which has experienced notable global shifts in the last 100 years, including the growth of Christianity in the Global South, the rise of Pentecostalism, and the continued addition of denominations, leading to the question, 'What is Polycentric Christianity?' If you are interested in the evolution of global Christinaity and its impact on mission then this episode is for you.  Subscribe to our podcast for more inspiring conversations about global mission and leadership. For further information about the Lausanne Movement, please visit our webpage: https://www.lausanne.org.   Links from this episode: Polycentric Missiology: 21st Century Mission from Everyone to Everywhere Majority World Theology: Christian Doctrine in Global Context Follow Allen on X   Guest Bio: Allen Yeh is tenured Professor of Intercultural Studies and Missiology. His areas of geographical expertise are Latin America and China. He also has other academic interests in Gen Z, history, classical music, homiletics, social justice, the California missions, the Maya, and biographical interest in Jonathan Edwards (America's greatest theologian) and Adoniram Judson (America's first intercontinental missionary). He serves on the Board of Trustees for the International Theological Seminary (ITS), the Learning Synthesis Manager for the Lausanne Generations Conversation, and a Research Fellow with the Billy Graham Center for Evangelism at Wheaton College. He is the author of several books including the seminal title Polycentric Missiology: 21st Century Mission from Everyone to Everywhere.

Today we look at a CTI video that talks about dinosaurs...and they convince me that the "creationists think the Flintstones were a documentary" meme is not actually a straw man in the process.Cards:Carbon dating doesn't work -- debunked:https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=APEpwkXatbYOriginal Video: https://tinyurl.com/yq63vtkeSources:Facts about hippos: https://tinyurl.com/y5yuzjpnDid Dinosaurs Swim?: https://tinyurl.com/yosnz25tDiet and Habitat of Sauropods: Evidences from Coprolites: https://tinyurl.com/ypzvdlpsDinosaur coprolites and the early evolution of grasses and grazers: https://tinyurl.com/yowrwkz8History of Grass Evolution Written in Dinosaur Poop: https://tinyurl.com/you7b5b9The Center for the Study of Global Christianity: https://tinyurl.com/2j7p57noFossil: https://tinyurl.com/coxstukKnow your bones: what is a ‘real' fossil?: https://tinyurl.com/yofcvgfgPleistocene Epoch: https://tinyurl.com/y6jh747wSurprise! Fossils in a flash: https://tinyurl.com/2mwhu7fnTypes of fossil preservation: https://tinyurl.com/yerckkpkHow amber creates exquisite fossils: https://tinyurl.com/ynqhspwaA chemical framework for the preservation of fossil vertebrate cells and soft tissues: https://tinyurl.com/yuvf2pk6Evidence of proteins, chromosomes and chemical markers of DNA in exceptionally preserved dinosaur cartilage: https://tinyurl.com/2b5rzyl7Nuclear preservation in the cartilage of the Jehol dinosaur Caudipteryx: https://tinyurl.com/yr8zehpkPaleontologists Find Possible Dinosaur DNA: https://tinyurl.com/y8ssptk4Life will find a way: could scientists make Jurassic Park a reality?: https://tinyurl.com/2awc5yoaFossil DNA persistence and decay in marine sediment over Fossil DNA persistence and decay in marine sediment over hundred-thousand-year to million-year time scales: https://tinyurl.com/yv36lr27The half-life of DNA in bone: measuring decay kinetics in 158 dated fossils: https://tinyurl.com/yolnkazdAncient DNA: Do It Right or Not at All: https://tinyurl.com/ywfea4f7Hidden life revealed inside dinosaur bones: https://tinyurl.com/yvdzlct5All my various links can be found here:http://links.vicedrhino.com

Welcome to Episode #126 of Way of the Bible podcast. This is our sixth of eight episodes in our sixteenth mini-series, The Obedience of Faith.  On this episode we're going to look at an example from scripture of The Normal Christian Life.We've been exploring on this mini-series what the obedience of faith involves. Jesus made it very clear to his disciples the expectations of one choosing to follow him included discipleship for sanctification into maturity in-Christ. We've been using Ephesians 4:11-16 as our guide for what this discipleship and sanctification looks like.   The gospels indicate Jesus called his disciples into service with him and they followed.  The epistles and letters allude that many if not most of those who came to faith by the preaching of the apostles and disciples did not go beyond salvation in pursuit of discipleship for sanctification. They kept doing what they'd been doing if possible. The epistles and letters seem to be trying to correct the disconnect between salvation and continuing as a member of the body of Christ into good works of salvation.Fast forward to 2023. If an onlooker or someone within Christianity today tried to discern what The Normal Christian Life should look like where would one start looking? Perhaps they would look toward the two oldest Christian denominations: The Roman Catholic Church and the Greek Orthodox Church. Both of these churches are global and trace their lineage back to Jesus Christ and the apostolic empowerment that was given by the Holy Spirit on the day of Pentecost. The Roman Catholic Church was founded in Rome with Latin as the common language. It is called the Western church. The Eastern church is Greek Orthodox, founded in Constantinople with Greek as the common language. These two churches held the monopoly on Christianity until the 16th century.In the 16th Century at the height of the Renaissance the Protestant Reformation was initiated in northern Europe. Five major denominations came out of the Protestant Reformation: Lutheran, Presbyterian, Methodist, Baptist, and Anabaptist (i.e. Mennonite, Quaker, Amish). Concurrent with the European Reformation was the English Reformation that birthed the Episcopalian/Anglican Church.What started out as large group reformations in the 16th Century resulted in exponential splintering of the church during and after the Enlightenment of the 17th and 18th Centuries. According to the Center for the Study of Global Christianity about 31% of the world's population (2.5 billion people) identify as Christian. There are now over 45,000 denominations globally, 200 of which are in the United States.Trying to tie down the similarities and differences in the 200 denominations in the United States could be difficult. But, at least six categories or buckets have been identified that generalize these churches as Contemplative, Charismatic, Evangelical, Holiness, Incarnational, and Social Justice. The basis of Christian faith and doctrinal differences within these buckets are most commonly associated with varied reliance upon Scripture, traditions of the church, and human reason.With over 45,000 denominations worldwide there are likely many more buckets globally than the six just listed. Trying to tie down The Normal Christian Life in 2023 from the witness of members of any of these denominations would be difficult if not impossible.Fortunately we don't have to accept impossible, we can simply look at what the Bible says. What would the Bible have to say regarding The Normal Christian Life that would be relevant in anyway in 2023. Listen and Find Out!!

Global Christianity- Kingdom Without Borders (Encounter, 10.12.23) by Sermons

Jeremy Treat is the Pastor for Preaching and Vision at Reality LA, a church in Los Angeles, California. He is also an Adjunct Professor of theology at BIOLA University, and he has his PhD from Wheaton College. is the author of several books. His latest book is The Atonement: an Introduction, published by Crossway Publishing as part of their series of Short Studies in Systematic Theology. In this episode of Expositors Collective he speaks with Mike about the need for preachers to receive input before they approach the pulpit, and feedback after they step out of it. Jeremy has been the giver and the receiver of "Treat Sheets" which is the friendly nickname for sermon feedback at Reality LA. The also discuss the need to learn from the international and transcultural body of Christ in order to see the multifaceted truths of Scripture. Jeremy Treat (PhD, Wheaton College) is Pastor for Preaching and Vision at Reality LA in Los Angeles, California and Adjunct Professor of Theology at Biola University. He is the author of The Crucified King, Seek First, and The Atonement. He and his wife, Tiffany, have four daughters and live in Los Angeles. Resources Mentioned: The Atonement: An Introduction : https://www.crossway.org/books/the-atonement-tpb/Africa Bible Commentary : https://langhamliterature.org/books/africa-bible-commentarySouth Asia Bible Commentary: https://langhamliterature.org/catalog/product/view/id/18386/s/south-asia-bible-commentary/Central and Eastern European Bible Commentary : https://langhamliterature.org/books/central-and-eastern-european-bible-commentary Africa Study Bible (Tyndale) https://oasisinternationalpublishing.com/africa-study-bible/ Recommended Episodes: Tim Chaddick Q+A Panel: https://www.expositorscollective.com/podcast/2022/8/16/battling-pride-in-in-the-heart-of-the-preacher-panel-discussion-with-dominic-done-clay-worrell-nick-cady-amp-tim-chaddickTim Chaddick Interview: https://www.expositorscollective.com/podcast/2020/1/7/episode-082-three-key-movements-in-the-life-of-a-preacherBryan Stupar : https://www.expositorscollective.com/podcast/2021/3/16/why-character-matters-bryan-stupar “Jeremy Treat reminds us of what every thoughtful Christian should know about the atonement while calling us to understand the cross, to worship, and to pick up our cross and follow the Master.”D. A. Carson, Theologian-at-Large, The Gospel Coalition Join us for our next in-person Training Weekend for men and women of all ages at The Creek Church in Indianapolis, Indiana!In this interactive seminar, attendees will learn from experienced practitioners from the stage and meet in groups and build ongoing relationships with coaches and mentors who want to help you grow in your personal study and public proclamation of God's Word.The Creek ChurchIndianapolis, IndianaOctober 27-28, 2023For information and to register visit ExpositorsCollective.com The Expositors Collective podcast is part of the CGNMedia, Working together to proclaim the Gospel, make disciples, and plant churches. For more content like this, visit https://cgnmedia.org/Join our private Facebook group to continue the conversation: https://www.facebook.com/groups/ExpositorsCollective

In this episode, learn about how the global center of Christianity has shifted away from America and is now represented by young, female, black, or brown individuals from the Global South who are poor and uneducated. This shift impacts how missions should be approached, with a focus on equipping and training rather than traditional evangelism. Dr. Allen Yeh, Professor of Intercultural Studies and Missiology at Biola University, discusses this shift in global Christianity and emphasizes the importance of understanding world Christianity as a subject. The trends that led to this change include the separation of colonialism from missions and the three-self movement, which promotes self-sustaining, self-propagating, and self-governing local churches. Dr. Yeh explains how the Western Church should think differently about missions in light of this new paradigm. Recent podcast episodes you will enjoy: EP #126 Six Practices to Healthy Venting  In this podcast, you will learn six practices to healthy venting. Venting your feelings can be healthy and helpful, but it does not always work this way. While sweeping emotions under the carpet is not healthy in our personal or professional lives, neither is the toxic environment of oversharing and venting our feelings. EP #127 Building Blocks for a Culture of Trust  In nearly all industries, over the last few years, research shows there's been a decline in trust. In this episode, learn from TrustCentric Consulting Founder and CEO Cory Scheer about the building blocks of trust. With proven strategies to help you build back trust and thrive in a trust-declining culture.

Does the rain not fall equally upon all people? Does the sun not shine for all, and do we not all breathe the air in equal measure? Why then, are you not ashamed to recognize only three languages and command the other nations and races to be blind and deaf?” Who said this? A sixteenth-century Reformer, right? Wrong. It was a ninth-century missionary, Cyril, who worked with his brother Methodius to bring the Scriptures to the Slavs – even when it meant inventing an entirely new alphabet! Join Emma, Grace, Christian, and Mina as they discover more about these early missionaries and translators and the struggles they encountered. To guide them in their discoveries is Dr. Ed Smither, professor of Intercultural Studies and History of Global Christianity at Columbia International University.

How does Robert Louis Stevenson's engagement with Pacific Islands cultures demonstrate processes of inculturation and the transformation of global Christianity?  L. M. Ratnapalan's book Robert Louis Stevenson and the Pacific: The Transformation of Global Christianity (Edinburgh UP, 2023) re-orients the intellectual biography of Robert Louis Stevenson by presenting him in the distinctive cultural environment of the Pacific. The book argues that Stevenson was religiously literate within a Scottish Presbyterian tradition and therefore well placed to grasp with subtlety the breadth and dynamics of a Christianized Pacific culture. It considers his legacy with respect to issues of indigenous sovereignty and agency and positions him within an important and wide-ranging modern debate about inculturation, defined as the emergence of Christianity from within a particular culture rather than imposed on it from outside. Through this study of a major Scottish writer, the book offers a model of interdisciplinary scholarship. L. Michael Ratnapalan is Associate Professor of History at Underwood International College, Yonsei University. He has published widely on modern intellectual and cultural history, with a focus on Britain's interactions with the wider world. Joseph Gaines can be reached at jgaines1091@gmail.com Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices Support our show by becoming a premium member! https://newbooksnetwork.supportingcast.fm/new-books-network

How does Robert Louis Stevenson's engagement with Pacific Islands cultures demonstrate processes of inculturation and the transformation of global Christianity?  L. M. Ratnapalan's book Robert Louis Stevenson and the Pacific: The Transformation of Global Christianity (Edinburgh UP, 2023) re-orients the intellectual biography of Robert Louis Stevenson by presenting him in the distinctive cultural environment of the Pacific. The book argues that Stevenson was religiously literate within a Scottish Presbyterian tradition and therefore well placed to grasp with subtlety the breadth and dynamics of a Christianized Pacific culture. It considers his legacy with respect to issues of indigenous sovereignty and agency and positions him within an important and wide-ranging modern debate about inculturation, defined as the emergence of Christianity from within a particular culture rather than imposed on it from outside. Through this study of a major Scottish writer, the book offers a model of interdisciplinary scholarship. L. Michael Ratnapalan is Associate Professor of History at Underwood International College, Yonsei University. He has published widely on modern intellectual and cultural history, with a focus on Britain's interactions with the wider world. Joseph Gaines can be reached at jgaines1091@gmail.com Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices Support our show by becoming a premium member! https://newbooksnetwork.supportingcast.fm/history

How does Robert Louis Stevenson's engagement with Pacific Islands cultures demonstrate processes of inculturation and the transformation of global Christianity?  L. M. Ratnapalan's book Robert Louis Stevenson and the Pacific: The Transformation of Global Christianity (Edinburgh UP, 2023) re-orients the intellectual biography of Robert Louis Stevenson by presenting him in the distinctive cultural environment of the Pacific. The book argues that Stevenson was religiously literate within a Scottish Presbyterian tradition and therefore well placed to grasp with subtlety the breadth and dynamics of a Christianized Pacific culture. It considers his legacy with respect to issues of indigenous sovereignty and agency and positions him within an important and wide-ranging modern debate about inculturation, defined as the emergence of Christianity from within a particular culture rather than imposed on it from outside. Through this study of a major Scottish writer, the book offers a model of interdisciplinary scholarship. L. Michael Ratnapalan is Associate Professor of History at Underwood International College, Yonsei University. He has published widely on modern intellectual and cultural history, with a focus on Britain's interactions with the wider world. Joseph Gaines can be reached at jgaines1091@gmail.com Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices Support our show by becoming a premium member! https://newbooksnetwork.supportingcast.fm/literary-studies

Is Christianity in America on the decline? What does Christianity look like around the world in places like Mongolia, Italy, Oceania and the like? What are the biggest challenges facing the global Church today?Today we welcome Dr. Gina Zurlo for the second part of our conversation about Global Christianity. Dr. Zurlo holds a PhD in History and Hermeneutics from Boston University School of Theology (2017). She is the Co-Director of the Center for the Study of Global Christianity at Gordon-Conwell Theological Seminary (South Hamilton, MA) and Visiting Research Fellow at Boston University's Institute on Culture, Religion and World Affairs. She is an interdisciplinary scholar, crossing between history, sociology, and World Christianity with a particular interest in women's experiences of Christianity and church life worldwide. Dr. Zurlo is the co-editor of the World Christian Database (Brill) and associate editor of the World Religion Database (Brill). She is one of the authors of the third edition of the World Christian Encyclopedia (Edinburgh University Press, 2019), which covers the history and current status of Christianity in every country of the world down to the denominational level. Travis and Dr. Zurlo discuss her newest book, Christianity Around the World, which is a popular reference work to introduce readers to the state of Christianity in every nation of the world, complete with colorful maps and graphs. They discuss the state of Christianity in America, how it is shifting, and what it means for us today. If you want to hear the first part of this conversation: #197 | What Does the Future of Christianity Look Like? Pt. 1 | Gina ZurloSome other episodes related to this episode or referred to in this episode:#30 | What God Is Doing In The World, Pt. 1 | Todd M. Johnson #32 | What God Is Doing In The World, Pt. 2 | Todd M. Johnson#69 | The Insanity of God, Pt. 1 | Nik Ripken#70 | The Insanity of God, Pt. 2 | Nik Ripken

Is Christianity in America on the decline? What does Christianity look like around the world? How many Christians are there in the world? How do sociologists quantify that? Today on Apollos Watered, we welcome Dr. Gina Zurlo to the show. Dr. Gina A. Zurlo holds a PhD in History and Hermeneutics from Boston University School of Theology (2017). She is the Co-Director of the Center for the Study of Global Christianity at Gordon-Conwell Theological Seminary (South Hamilton, MA) and Visiting Research Fellow at Boston University's Institute on Culture, Religion and World Affairs. She is an interdisciplinary scholar, crossing between history, sociology, and World Christianity with a particular interest in women's experiences of Christianity and church life worldwide. Dr. Zurlo is the co-editor of the World Christian Database (Brill) and associate editor of the World Religion Database (Brill). She is one of the authors of the third edition of the World Christian Encyclopedia (Edinburgh University Press, 2019), which covers the history and current status of Christianity in every country of the world down to the denominational level. Travis and Dr. Zurlo discuss her newest book, Christianity Around the World, which is a popular reference work to introduce readers to the state of Christianity in every nation of the world, complete with colorful maps and graphs. They discuss the state of Christianity in America, how it is shifting, and what it means for us today. Some other episodes related to this episode:#30 | What God Is Doing In The World, Pt. 1 | Todd M. Johnson #32 | What God Is Doing In The World, Pt. 2 | Todd M. Johnson#103 | Reaching the Nations in Your Neighborhood | David Garrison#161 | Inalienable: How Marginalized Kingdom Voices Can Help Save The American Church | Eric Costanzo, Daniel Yang, & Matthew SoerensSign up for the Apollos Watered newsletter.God continues to grow our ministry, but He calls people like you to help do it! Support the Ministry of Apollos Watered today!

Does history really matter in our modern world? What about Christian history? Is there a good way to understand history that relates to us? Is there a bad way of doing history? What can history show us about living as Christ-followers in our modern world? The answer is, of course, plenty!Travis welcomes Dr. Scott Sunquist, President of Gordon-Conwell Theological Seminary, to the show to help us navigate and harness the story of history so that we might be able to help the church chart a new path forward in our modern post-everything world. Christian history can help us understand who we are, where we have come from, and how we fit into what God is doing in the world. That being said, history is much more than a record of what happened in the past, it is an unfolding of a story, and that story must be told accurately, or it could lead to disastrous results in the present. Travis and Dr. Sunquist discuss his book, The Shape of Christian History, and how Christian history helps guide us when done correctly. It's a conversation that enlightens, equips, and encourages you to press forward in fulfilling the mission God has for you where you are. Scott is the author of The Unexpected Christian Century: The Reversal and Transformation of Global Christianity, 1900-2000, Understanding Christian Mission: Participation in Suffering and Glory, Why Church?: A Basic Introduction, and co-author of History of the World Christian Movement: Earliest Christianity to 1453, History of the World Christian Movement: Modern Christianity from 1454-1800. Check out more episodes dealing with Global Christianity and Christian history:#30 | What God Is Doing In The World, Pt....

How can data and statistics help mobilize believers? Today, were blessed to hear from one of the BBC's 100 most inspiring and influential women of 2019, Gina Zurlo, the Co-Director of the Center for the Study of Global Christianity. In her recent book, Portraits of Global Christianity, Gina unpacks how students were mobilized to action by their beloved professor, Dr. Todd Johnson. Join host Dave Jacob as he chats with Gina about missionary sending throughout the world. Here's what the two discussed:   Tell us about the book and why you wrote it. Why is it important for mobilizers to understand the Portraits of Global Christianity? One of my favorite graphs is the world as 100 Christians. Could you highlight that for us? What significant missionary-sending and receiving changes have occurred in the last 20-50 years? What are some of the reasons why most missionaries go to places where the church already exists? How can missionaries sent from the West better partner with our brothers and sisters from the Global South?  We know that some mistakes in missions history prohibit some from answering the call. How can mobilizers address things like colonialism in missions past? What else do you feel is important for mobilizers to know?