Podcasts about Missiology

MinistryWatch has long been a proponent of what some call the “New Paradigm” of missions. This New Paradigm has several components, but at its core is the notion that well-trained indigenous missionaries are better positioned to evangelize their neighbors than American missionaries who come from thousands of miles away with little knowledge of the language or culture of the people they hope to evangelize. The Institute for Great Commission Research (IGCR) at California Baptist University recently released “Missional Imagination: How the Next Generation Understands Missions.” Among the “top line” findings of this landmark study is this: “Supporting local Christians in their context is seen as the most trusted model of missions.” The study continued, “This preference reflects a strong concern for cultural legitimacy, partnership, and long-term witness, and signals a shift away from models centered on external control, short-term intervention, or visibility.” The man who led that study is my guest today. Dr. Matthew Niermann serves as Professor of Architecture and Associate Dean of the College of Architecture, Visual Arts & Design at California Baptist University.  Niermann serves as a director of the Lausanne Movement and editor of the State of the Great Commission Report prepared for the 4th Global Congress in Seoul, Korea in 2024. Niermann holds a Ph.D. in Architectural Design from the University of Michigan, M.A. Apologetics from BIOLA, M.A. Theology and Th.M. of Missiology from Gordon-Conwell Theological Seminary. The producer for today's program is Jeff McIntosh. I'm your host Warren Smith. Until next time, may God bless you.  

This week, we return to a lively conversation with Dr. Soong-Chan Rah, hosted by Octavio and Claire back in 2020. Here, they consider the need for the North American church to break free from Western cultural captivity and embrace the diversity of our communities in our gathered worship and theology. Soong-Chan emphasizes the importance of diversity, community, and authentic cultural expression in faith communities. If this conversation piques your interest, consider joining him in the classroom this summer. He will be teaching "Cultural Intelligence for a Changing Church" from July 6-10. Soong-Chan's BioSoong-Chan Rah is the Robert Boyd Munger Professor of Evangelism and Church Renewal at Fuller Theological Seminary. He holds a ThD from Duke Divinity School, with a primary field of study in theology and ethics, and a secondary field of study in American evangelical history. He also holds an MDiv and a DMin, with a concentration in urban ministry leadership, from Gordon-Conwell Theological Seminary, as well as a ThM from Harvard University, with a thesis on the immigrant church.Dr. Rah has authored or co-authored over a half-dozen books, which have won many awards. These include The Next Evangelicalism: Freeing the Church from Western Cultural Captivity(IVP, 2009); Many Colors: Cultural Intelligence for a Changing Church (Moody, 2010); Prophetic Lament: A Call for Justice in Troubled Times (IVP, 2015); Return to Justice: Six Movements that Reignited Our Contemporary Evangelical Conscience (with Gary Vanderpol; Brazos, 2016); Unsettling Truths: The Ongoing, Dehumanizing Legacy of the Doctrine of Discovery (with Mark Charles; IVP, 2019); and Forgive Us: Confessions of a Compromised Faith (with Mae Elise Cannon, Lisa Sharon Harper, and Troy Jackson; Zondervan, 2014).Dr. Rah is an ordained pastor in the Evangelical Covenant Church and a member of the Academy for Evangelism in Theological Education, the American Academy of Religion, and the American Society of Missiology. He speaks on the topics of the witness of the church, cross-cultural ministry, and social justice at a wide range of academic conferences, seminaries, Christian colleges, local churches, denominational gatherings, and ministry conferences across the United States and around the world.Regent College PodcastThanks for listening. Please like, rate and review us on your podcast platform of choice and share this episode with a friend. Follow Us on Social MediaFacebookInstagramYoutubeKeep in TouchRegent CollegeSummer ProgramsRegent College Newsletter

In this episode of the Ephesiology Podcast, Michael T. Cooper and Andrew Johnson introduce Dr. Cooper's seminar, “Let the Stones Speak,” part of the Archaeology Meets Missiology series. The conversation explores five archaeological discoveries that preserve early memories of Jesus across Asia Minor, North Africa, Edessa, and the Arabian Peninsula. From inscriptions and graffiti to apocryphal traditions and Christograms, these discoveries reveal how the early church remembered, proclaimed, and worshiped Jesus, not only through written texts, but also through the material record left behind in stone. Along the way, Michael reflects on the difference between what Jesus did and who Jesus is, showing how archaeology can deepen our understanding of early Christology and encourage the church today. Keywords: Archaeology, Missiology, Ephesiology, Let the Stones Speak, Memory of Jesus, Early Church, Christology, Functional Christology, Ontological Christology, Abgar and Jesus, Edessa, Smyrna, Sardis, Pantokratoros Inscription, Christogram, North Africa, Thugga, Jordan, Arabian Peninsula, Crypto Portico, Archaeological Record, Material Culture, Early Christian Witness, Jesus in Archaeology, Gods Emperors Philosophers and a New Movement Key Takeaways Archaeology preserves early memories of Jesus.The episode highlights how inscriptions, graffiti, letters, and symbols offer physical evidence of how Jesus was remembered and proclaimed in the early centuries of the church. The archaeological record complements the biblical text.Michael emphasizes that while Scripture remains central, material culture provides additional historical evidence for what early Christians believed about Jesus. The early church remembered both what Jesus did and who Jesus is.The conversation introduces the distinction between functional Christology—what Jesus did—and ontological Christology—who Jesus is in his essence. Five discoveries point to the wide geographical reach of Jesus memory.The seminar focuses on evidence from places such as Edessa, Smyrna, Sardis, North Africa, and the desert of Jordan. The Abgar-Jesus tradition reflects a broad and enduring memory.Though apocryphal in nature, the Abgar tradition is significant because of its wide geographical spread across places such as Egypt, Armenia, and Turkey. The Sardis Pantokratoros inscription raises important questions.Michael notes that the inscription may contribute to broader evidence suggesting Christian use of the so-called synagogue at Sardis. The Christogram in North Africa shows how Christian symbols could be overlooked or forgotten.Michael recounts seeing a Christogram dismissed as a sundial, showing how visible Christian memory can remain unrecognized in certain contexts. The Arabian Peninsula may yield more discoveries.The Jordan inscription points toward the possibility of future finds that may further illuminate the presence and memory of Jesus in Arabia. Research continues after publication.Andrew notes that Michael's seminar includes discoveries and developments not fully represented in his book, reminding listeners that scholarship is an ongoing process. Archaeology can be faith-building and encouraging.The episode closes with the reminder that seeing the historical and physical impact of Jesus across regions and centuries can strengthen faith and deepen wonder. Connect With Us Follow Ephesiology: Website | Twitter | Instagram | YouTube Follow Andrew Johnson @thediscfan.bsky.social If this episode encouraged you, please leave a review and share it with others exploring missional living in post-Christian contexts. Thanks for doing theology in community with us today! If you have a question or topic that you'd like to hear addressed on the Ephesiology Podcast, just send it to Andrew at thediscfan@gmail.com. Donate Find the podcast on your favorite podcast app Just search for “Ephesiology” Our Podcasters Michael CooperProfessor | Missiologist | AuthorMichael is the missiologist in residence with East West where he focuses on equipping and empowering church leaders in evangelism, discipleship, leadership, and catalyzing church planting movements in the most difficult to reach places on the planet. He is the author of Ephesiology: The Study of the Ephesian Movement as well as many other books and academic articles. He has lectured at universities around the world and serves as affiliate faculty at Kairos University where he facilitates the degree programs in partnership with Ephesiology Master Classes.Andrew JohnsonMinistry Lead, West Village ChurchAndrew is a proud husband, father and pastor who desires all to know the one true King. He is honored to serve at West Village Church in Victoria, BC. Previously, he's ministered in Houston, Chicago, Indy, Flagstaff and Tempe in a variety of church contexts. Andrew has a BA in Christian Ministry from Trinity International University and an MA from Phoenix Seminary. He is currently a Doctor of Ministry student at Kairos University and is the co-host of the Ephesiology Podcast. When not at work, he's an avid disc golfing, vinyl playing, Spider-Man following/collecting fellow. Go Pacers. Pick up Dr. Cooper’s latest book Religions, politics, and education shaped the cultural world of Asia Minor where a new faith emerged that would change history. Gods, Emperors, Philosophers, and a New Movement uncovers how the earliest Christians navigated—and often disrupted and adapted—the dominant forces of their age. Drawing on decades of research, fieldwork, and teaching, Michael T. Cooper takes readers beneath the surface of Ephesos, Smyrna, Pergamon, and other cities to reveal how temples, inscriptions, and civic spaces illuminate the missionary impulse of the first Christians. Far from being silent, the archaeological record testifies to their resilience, creativity, and bold proclamation of the gospel in a world saturated with competing loyalties. This is more than history. By examining how the early church encountered powerful religious traditions, political ideologies, and systems of education, today's missionaries and church leaders gain fresh vision for gospel engagement in their own pluralistic and contested contexts. The dynamics that shaped mission in the first centuries—identity, power, worldview, and cultural disruption—remain central to how the good news advances today. This book is an invitation to rediscover the mission of God in the archaeological record and to discern its enduring relevance for faithful witness in the twenty-first century. Buy on Amazon Do you enjoy the Ephesiology Podcast? Partner with the Pod The Ephesiology Podcast comes to you from a desire to engage in community conversations about the intersection of theology and culture. We do not believe such dialogue should come with a cost so the podcast will always be free. However, if you've benefited from the Ephesiology Podcast, would you consider a nominal $5 per month donation? All proceeds from the podcast go toward helping bring needed theological education to the majority world through our Ephesiology Master Class initiative to end a theological famine. We'd be honored to partner with you to continue providing solid biblical, theological, and missiological content for listeners around the world. Donate Empowering Future Church Leaders Imagine a world where passionate, equipped Christian leaders spread God's Word in areas with the greatest need—leaders grounded in both deep theology and practical ministry skills, trained to make a lasting impact in their communities. Through your support, this vision can become a reality for students from countries like Malawi, Tanzania, Kenya, Nepal, and India who are eager to teach and multiply disciple-makers in their own regions. Learn More Ephesiology: A Study of the Ephesian Movement If you want to understand principles for the growth of Christianity in the first century, the place to begin is the city of Ephesus. In this winsome study, Ephesiology offers readers a comprehensive view of the empowering work of the Holy Spirit in the most significant city of the New Testament, and compels us to ask the question: how can we effectively connect Christ to our culture? “Masterfully handling the book of Ephesians and using its content as a definitive guide, Michael Cooper lays a theologically strong foundation that is both corrective and directive to disciple making movements. The principles he gleans from the book of Ephesians and related texts, help to ensure the on-going multiplication and maturation of a movement. Because these are supra-cultural principles, they are applicable anywhere in the world.” Marvin J. Newell, Staff Missiologist, Missio Nexus, Author of Crossing Cultures in Scripture Buy This Now! Educating to Shift the Tracks of History To shift the tracks of history requires leaders who are equipped to critically assess and engage the contours of contemporary culture. As a new initiative in collaboration with the Movement Leaders Collective, Kairos University, and Ephesiology, we deliver just-in-time theological education focused on issues important to you, mxAcademy is designed as the theological and missiological foundation to unlock your potential as a movement leader and catalytic thinker. mxAcademy is a dynamic and innovative educational experience rooted in mDNA.We dream of a church fully equipped, fully mature, fully mobilized, and fully alive. A church that lives and breathes the Good News of Jesus! Learn More Join a Community Conversation at Ephesiology Master Classes Areopagus Symposium Taking its inspiration from the historical and philosophical legacy of Athens, Greece, the Areopagus Symposium focuses on intellectual and philosophical topics related to Christology, missiology, and ecclesiology. We invite scholars, theologians, and practitioners from diverse backgrounds to engage in a profound exploration of the theological landscape at the intersection of these vital disciplines. Sign up for an Ephesiology Master Classes account and gain free access to the Areopagus Symposium. Check it out! The Ephesiology Podcast and Ephesiology Master Classes are ministries of TELOS.GO, a registered 501c3 non-profit agency committed to imaginatively missional ways of engageing culture, church planting, and theological education. Your donation to the podcast is tax deductible.

Hunter Hoover and RJ Olmstead discuss the importance of a daily spiritual practice and how to foster that in a culture and a day to day that is often counterintuitive to it.--contact@parableministries.comhttps://www.parableministries.comhttps://www.instagram.com/parable_ministries/--Music created by Chad HoffmanArtwork created by Anthony Kuenzi--About the teacher: RJ Olmstead is a central Arizonan who has set his heart to follow God's calling into academia. Using an undergrad focus on Behavioral Health and Ministry, and an M.Div. focused on Intercultural Studies and Missiology, RJ strives to engage people on their own grounds for Christ and biblical thinking through his adjunct professorship at Arizona Christian University and partnerships with parachurch ministries, such as Pickled Parables. With his wife, Camryn, the two aim to provide firm, faithful ground for their community through hospitality, biblical literacy, and higher education.-Hunter Hoover grew up in Montana and now serves the Church in Albany Oregon where he works as a youth and young adults pastor. He and his wife Ana stay busy with two kids. Hunter loves studying the Bible and communicating it in a way which encourages further exploration of others. Hunter enjoys listening and making podcasts for others to enjoy.

Parable Ministries Presents: Hebrews Part 15.-Scripture Explored: Hebrews 12:1-17-Check out our other podcasts!"Rejoice, O Beloved!"CommentariesMy Dusty Bible-Connect with Us:contact@parableministries.comParableMinistries.comParablePublishing.comInstagramTikTok-RJ Olmstead is a central Arizonan who has set his heart to follow God's calling into academia. Using an undergrad focus on Behavioral Health and Ministry, and an M.Div. focused on Intercultural Studies and Missiology, RJ strives to engage people on their own grounds for Christ and biblical thinking through his adjunct professorship at Arizona Christian University and partnerships with parachurch ministries, such as Pickled Parables. With his wife, Camryn, the two aim to provide firm, faithful ground for their community through hospitality, biblical literacy, and higher education.-Music created by Chad HoffmanArtwork created by Anthony Kuenzi-If you feel led to give to Parable Ministries, please visit: Donate

Msgr. Roger J. Landry Pontifical Missionary Union Webinar May 14, 2026   To watch a recording of today's webinar, please click below:    To listen to an audio recording of the webinar, please click below:  https://traffic.libsyn.com/secure/catholicpreaching/5.14.26_Four_Pontifical_Mission_Societies_II.mp3   To download a copy of the slides of the presentation, please click below: 5.14.26 PUM MIssiology Lecture on […] The post The Four Pontifical Mission Societies as Instruments of Missionary Animation and Formation in the Local Churches for a New Missionary Movement in the Church, Pontifical Missionary Union Refresher Course in Missiology, May 14, 2026 appeared first on Catholic Preaching.

Few doctrines stir up more unease in the modern church than the topic of hell. Even recently in the Christian podcast world, debates on the doctrine of hell have been highly publicized. Long-held assumptions about hell and damnation are being challenged by a broader cultural discomfort with the idea of divine judgment.Many believers have recently been asking: Is conscious torment biblical? Is hell a place where all the unjust live eternally? In this episode, we step into that very debate—not to inflame controversy, but to carefully examine what the Bible says about the eternal destiny of the lost, the character of God, and the urgency of the gospel.Join us as we discuss the traditional view, as well as Universalism and Annihilationism, in light of what the Bible actually says. For this conversation, we are joined by Dr. Chris Best, instructor of Missiology at the Living Faith Bible Institute.For more information on this topic, please follow the link to read the notes for Episode 269.Visit http://lfbi.org/learnmore

A church that believes Christ is supreme lives prayerfully, speaks wisely, and partners faithfully in God's mission.

What happens when a faithful church—commended by Jesus Himself—becomes the birthplace of one of the most controversial movements in early Christianity? In this episode of the Ephesiology Podcast, we journey to ancient Philadelphia in Asia Minor, a “gateway city” shaped by competing religious forces and cultural pressures. With limited archaeological data but rich literary and numismatic clues, we uncover how a steadfast community navigated syncretism, only to later give rise to Montanism—a movement that both recovered important biblical emphases and introduced dangerous distortions. This is more than history; it's a cautionary tale about leadership, authority, and the enduring tension between faithfulness and innovation in the mission of God. Keywords: Archaeology, Missiology, Philadelphia (Asia Minor), Seven Churches of Revelation, Book of Revelation, Early Church History, Montanism, New Prophecy Movement, Syncretism, Numismatic Evidence, Religious Pluralism, Dionysus Worship, Artemis Cult, Jewish Diaspora, Apocalyptic Expectation, New Jerusalem, Church Leadership, Heresy, Prophetic Authority, Moral Rigor, Missional Strategy, Gateway City Key Takeaways 1. Faithful beginnings don't guarantee faithful trajectoriesThe church in Philadelphia receives only commendation from Jesus (Revelation 3), yet later developments in the region reveal theological drift and distortion. 2. Archaeology's silence still speaksEven with minimal excavation, literary and numismatic evidence provides a vivid picture of Philadelphia as a deeply religious, pluralistic environment shaped by multiple cults and practices. 3. Context shapes theology—for better or worseThe surrounding worship of Dionysus, Artemis, and other deities created a cultural environment where ecstatic practices and syncretism could easily infiltrate emerging Christian expressions. 4. Syncretism is not just a pagan problemBoth Jewish and Christian communities in Asia Minor show signs of accommodation to surrounding religious practices, echoing concerns seen in texts like 1 Corinthians. 5. Montanism: reform and distortion intertwinedMontanism recovered valuable elements—moral seriousness, the role of the Spirit, and broad participation in ministry—yet distorted authority by elevating new prophecy above prior revelation. 6. “Jesus and…” is the fault line of heresyThe movement illustrates a recurring theological danger: adding new authority or revelation alongside Jesus undermines the foundation of the faith. 7. Leadership formation is mission-criticalMontanus serves as a cautionary example of elevating immature or newly converted leaders, reinforcing New Testament warnings about leadership qualification. 8. Geography shapes eschatologyMontanus's claim that the New Jerusalem would appear in his region shows how local context can shape—and distort—apocalyptic expectations. 9. Movements spread beyond their originsMontanism's influence reached far beyond Phrygia, impacting figures like Tertullian and spreading across the Roman Empire for centuries. 10. The past speaks to present mission practiceThis episode underscores a central Ephesiological insight: understanding the historical movement of God helps the church navigate contemporary challenges with greater discernment. Connect With Us Follow Ephesiology: Website | Twitter | Instagram | YouTube Follow Andrew Johnson @thediscfan.bsky.social If this episode encouraged you, please leave a review and share it with others exploring missional living in post-Christian contexts. Thanks for doing theology in community with us today! If you have a question or topic that you'd like to hear addressed on the Ephesiology Podcast, just send it to Andrew at thediscfan@gmail.com. Donate Find the podcast on your favorite podcast app Just search for “Ephesiology” Our Podcasters Michael CooperProfessor | Missiologist | AuthorMichael is the missiologist in residence with East West where he focuses on equipping and empowering church leaders in evangelism, discipleship, leadership, and catalyzing church planting movements in the most difficult to reach places on the planet. He is the author of Ephesiology: The Study of the Ephesian Movement as well as many other books and academic articles. He has lectured at universities around the world and serves as affiliate faculty at Kairos University where he facilitates the degree programs in partnership with Ephesiology Master Classes.Andrew JohnsonMinistry Lead, West Village ChurchAndrew is a proud husband, father and pastor who desires all to know the one true King. He is honored to serve at West Village Church in Victoria, BC. Previously, he's ministered in Houston, Chicago, Indy, Flagstaff and Tempe in a variety of church contexts. Andrew has a BA in Christian Ministry from Trinity International University and an MA from Phoenix Seminary. He is currently a Doctor of Ministry student at Kairos University and is the co-host of the Ephesiology Podcast. When not at work, he's an avid disc golfing, vinyl playing, Spider-Man following/collecting fellow. Go Pacers. Do you enjoy the Ephesiology Podcast? If the Stones Could Speak How Archaeology Reveals the Church's Mission with Dr. Michael T. Cooper Date: Thursday, 21 May 2026Time: 16:00 PDT | 19:00 EDT | Next Day 04:30 IST | 07:00 PHT | 09:00 AEST What if the stones could speak? Join us for an evening that explores how archaeology brings the mission of the early church into focus. Through artifacts, inscriptions, and ancient cities, discover how the name of Jesus was spread in a world of competing gods and empires and what that means for the church's mission today. A live Zoom seminar with Dr. Cooper followed by Q&A Register on Zoom Pick up Dr. Cooper’s latest book Religions, politics, and education shaped the cultural world of Asia Minor where a new faith emerged that would change history. Gods, Emperors, Philosophers, and a New Movement uncovers how the earliest Christians navigated—and often disrupted and adapted—the dominant forces of their age. Drawing on decades of research, fieldwork, and teaching, Michael T. Cooper takes readers beneath the surface of Ephesos, Smyrna, Pergamon, and other cities to reveal how temples, inscriptions, and civic spaces illuminate the missionary impulse of the first Christians. Far from being silent, the archaeological record testifies to their resilience, creativity, and bold proclamation of the gospel in a world saturated with competing loyalties. This is more than history. By examining how the early church encountered powerful religious traditions, political ideologies, and systems of education, today's missionaries and church leaders gain fresh vision for gospel engagement in their own pluralistic and contested contexts. The dynamics that shaped mission in the first centuries—identity, power, worldview, and cultural disruption—remain central to how the good news advances today. This book is an invitation to rediscover the mission of God in the archaeological record and to discern its enduring relevance for faithful witness in the twenty-first century. Buy on Amazon Partner with the Pod The Ephesiology Podcast comes to you from a desire to engage in community conversations about the intersection of theology and culture. We do not believe such dialogue should come with a cost so the podcast will always be free. However, if you've benefited from the Ephesiology Podcast, would you consider a nominal $5 per month donation? All proceeds from the podcast go toward helping bring needed theological education to the majority world through our Ephesiology Master Class initiative to end a theological famine. We'd be honored to partner with you to continue providing solid biblical, theological, and missiological content for listeners around the world. Donate Empowering Future Church Leaders Imagine a world where passionate, equipped Christian leaders spread God's Word in areas with the greatest need—leaders grounded in both deep theology and practical ministry skills, trained to make a lasting impact in their communities. Through your support, this vision can become a reality for students from countries like Malawi, Tanzania, Kenya, Nepal, and India who are eager to teach and multiply disciple-makers in their own regions. Learn More Ephesiology: A Study of the Ephesian Movement If you want to understand principles for the growth of Christianity in the first century, the place to begin is the city of Ephesus. In this winsome study, Ephesiology offers readers a comprehensive view of the empowering work of the Holy Spirit in the most significant city of the New Testament, and compels us to ask the question: how can we effectively connect Christ to our culture? “Masterfully handling the book of Ephesians and using its content as a definitive guide, Michael Cooper lays a theologically strong foundation that is both corrective and directive to disciple making movements. The principles he gleans from the book of Ephesians and related texts, help to ensure the on-going multiplication and maturation of a movement. Because these are supra-cultural principles, they are applicable anywhere in the world.” Marvin J. Newell, Staff Missiologist, Missio Nexus, Author of Crossing Cultures in Scripture Buy This Now! Educating to Shift the Tracks of History To shift the tracks of history requires leaders who are equipped to critically assess and engage the contours of contemporary culture. As a new initiative in collaboration with the Movement Leaders Collective, Kairos University, and Ephesiology, we deliver just-in-time theological education focused on issues important to you, mxAcademy is designed as the theological and missiological foundation to unlock your potential as a movement leader and catalytic thinker. mxAcademy is a dynamic and innovative educational experience rooted in mDNA.We dream of a church fully equipped, fully mature, fully mobilized, and fully alive. A church that lives and breathes the Good News of Jesus! Learn More Join a Community Conversation at Ephesiology Master Classes Areopagus Symposium Taking its inspiration from the historical and philosophical legacy of Athens, Greece, the Areopagus Symposium focuses on intellectual and philosophical topics related to Christology, missiology, and ecclesiology. We invite scholars, theologians, and practitioners from diverse backgrounds to engage in a profound exploration of the theological landscape at the intersection of these vital disciplines. Sign up for an Ephesiology Master Classes account and gain free access to the Areopagus Symposium. Check it out! The Ephesiology Podcast and Ephesiology Master Classes are ministries of TELOS.GO, a registered 501c3 non-profit agency committed to imaginatively missional ways of engageing culture, church planting, and theological education. Your donation to the podcast is tax deductible.

Krish Kandiah is a missiologist, social entrepreneur, author, and broadcaster with degrees in Chemistry, Missiology and Theology (PhD, Kings College London). Krish is on faculty at Regents Park College and Oxford University and has authored thirteen books including the award-winning Paradoxology. He is an Honorary Research Fellow at the National Centre for Post-Qualifying Social Work at Bournemouth University and an Honorary Reader in Theology at St Andrews University. He has spoken at Q Conference, the Global Leadership Summit, The Justice Conference, TedxOxford, and more.ResourcesThe YouTube channel of Krish is here https://www.youtube.com/@UCnRB8V1480GNyKfK5EIQhZg Dr Kandiah OBE is the founder of The Sanctuary Foundation. A charity supporting refugees to find welcome, work and worthwhile housing in the UK.He is recognised as an expert in refugee resettlement , child welfare reform, educational innovation and civil society mobilisation.Krish has led the charge on mobilising civil society groups and churches as they have supported recent arrivals from Hong Kong, Afghanistan, Ukraine, Gaza and Sudan.He is a regular advisor to government.He was appointed by the Secretary of State for Education as the Chair of the Adoption and Special Guardianship Leadership Board (2019-2021) where he brought strategic leadership to the finding of permanent loving families for children in the care system.He has helped to inspire and train thousands to care for vulnerable adults and children.Dr Kandiah is a regular broadcaster on a range of subjects including:Refugee ResettlementChild Welfare ReformFaith and Public LifeJustice and EqualityCivil Society EngagementFilm and CultureHe has been a regular guest on BBC Breakfast, the Zoe Ball breakfast show on BBC Radio 2 and has appeared on BBC News 24, The Today Programme, Goggle Box and Sky News, Woman's Hour and more...Dr Kandiah has written opinion pieces for The Times, The Guardian, The Sunday Times, The Express, The Spectator , Christianity Today and more...THE GUARDIAN: No one should age out of careSPECTATOR: Benedict Cumberbatch's CourierSPECTATOR: An Interview with JesusTHE TIMES: Why the government's Rwanda programmeSPECTATOR: There's more to the Queen's GambitCT: The Case Against OrphanagesDr Kandiah is a Global Ambassador for World Vision International.He has organised and spoken at major global conferences and summits including: The Global Leadership Summit , Q Conference, Amplify,He designed, organised and chaired the first Transatlantic Learning Summit between the US and English governments on adoption innovation and another on ending racial disparity in adoption.Dr Kandiah organised and chaired the Global Children in Care Summit which brought together care experienced young people, government leaders and NGO representatives from 29 countries.

What if we've misunderstood one of Jesus' most familiar commands? In this episode of the Ephesiology Podcast, a simple but unsettling shift is explored: not “make disciples,” but disciple as you are going. Drawing from a recent conversation between Dr. Tony Blair and Michael, Andrew and Michael reflect on how a closer reading of the Great Commission reframes our role, not as producers of disciples, but as participants in what God alone does. This conversation is both clarifying and disruptive. It challenges long-held assumptions, invites theological humility, and opens the door to a more faithful, contextual, and Spirit-led practice of discipleship. Video Keywords: Discipleship, Great Commission, Make Disciples, Missiology, Theological Reflection, Biblical Interpretation, Indigenous Discipleship, Contextual Theology, Holy Spirit, Kingdom Mission, Exegesis, Form vs Function, Church Practice, Spiritual Formation Key Takeaways God is the one who makes disciples The shift from “make disciples” to “disciple” reframes discipleship as participation in the work of the Holy Spirit, not human production. “As you are going” changes the posture of mission Discipleship is not about geographic displacement or a singular calling to “go,” but about faithfully discipling in the everyday rhythms of life. The shift is both theological and liberating Releasing the burden of “making” disciples frees believers to walk alongside others and trust God for transformation. Discipleship is a lifelong, corrective journey Faithfulness includes being open to re-evaluating previously held assumptions and allowing the Holy Spirit to reshape understanding over time. Good motivations can still carry flawed assumptions Even meaningful ministry experiences may be built on incomplete or culturally shaped interpretations that require later correction. Theology is always shaped by context What we often assume is “biblical” may actually be a cultural reading of Scripture, requiring deeper exegetical work. Indigenous discipleship is essential Discipleship must take different forms in different cultural contexts rather than exporting a single Western model globally. We often confuse form and function Practices we treat as essential (function) may actually be contextual expressions (form), limiting how discipleship can take root in other cultures. The posture of a disciple is open-handed obedience True discipleship involves taking steps of faith while remaining open to God's correction and redirection. Connect With Us Follow Ephesiology: Website | Twitter | Instagram | YouTube Follow Andrew Johnson @thediscfan.bsky.social If this episode encouraged you, please leave a review and share it with others exploring missional living in post-Christian contexts. Thanks for doing theology in community with us today! If you have a question or topic that you'd like to hear addressed on the Ephesiology Podcast, just send it to Andrew at thediscfan@gmail.com. Donate Find the podcast on your favorite podcast app Just search for “Ephesiology” Our Podcasters Michael CooperProfessor | Missiologist | AuthorMichael is the missiologist in residence with East West where he focuses on equipping and empowering church leaders in evangelism, discipleship, leadership, and catalyzing church planting movements in the most difficult to reach places on the planet. He is the author of Ephesiology: The Study of the Ephesian Movement as well as many other books and academic articles. He has lectured at universities around the world and serves as affiliate faculty at Kairos University where he facilitates the degree programs in partnership with Ephesiology Master Classes.Andrew JohnsonMinistry Lead, West Village ChurchAndrew is a proud husband, father and pastor who desires all to know the one true King. He is honored to serve at West Village Church in Victoria, BC. Previously, he's ministered in Houston, Chicago, Indy, Flagstaff and Tempe in a variety of church contexts. Andrew has a BA in Christian Ministry from Trinity International University and an MA from Phoenix Seminary. He is currently a Doctor of Ministry student at Kairos University and is the co-host of the Ephesiology Podcast. When not at work, he's an avid disc golfing, vinyl playing, Spider-Man following/collecting fellow. Go Pacers. Do you enjoy the Ephesiology Podcast? Pick up Dr. Cooper’s latest book Religions, politics, and education shaped the cultural world of Asia Minor where a new faith emerged that would change history. Gods, Emperors, Philosophers, and a New Movement uncovers how the earliest Christians navigated—and often disrupted and adapted—the dominant forces of their age. Drawing on decades of research, fieldwork, and teaching, Michael T. Cooper takes readers beneath the surface of Ephesos, Smyrna, Pergamon, and other cities to reveal how temples, inscriptions, and civic spaces illuminate the missionary impulse of the first Christians. Far from being silent, the archaeological record testifies to their resilience, creativity, and bold proclamation of the gospel in a world saturated with competing loyalties. This is more than history. By examining how the early church encountered powerful religious traditions, political ideologies, and systems of education, today's missionaries and church leaders gain fresh vision for gospel engagement in their own pluralistic and contested contexts. The dynamics that shaped mission in the first centuries—identity, power, worldview, and cultural disruption—remain central to how the good news advances today. This book is an invitation to rediscover the mission of God in the archaeological record and to discern its enduring relevance for faithful witness in the twenty-first century. Buy on Amazon Partner with the Pod The Ephesiology Podcast comes to you from a desire to engage in community conversations about the intersection of theology and culture. We do not believe such dialogue should come with a cost so the podcast will always be free. However, if you've benefited from the Ephesiology Podcast, would you consider a nominal $5 per month donation? All proceeds from the podcast go toward helping bring needed theological education to the majority world through our Ephesiology Master Class initiative to end a theological famine. We'd be honored to partner with you to continue providing solid biblical, theological, and missiological content for listeners around the world. Donate Empowering Future Church Leaders Imagine a world where passionate, equipped Christian leaders spread God's Word in areas with the greatest need—leaders grounded in both deep theology and practical ministry skills, trained to make a lasting impact in their communities. Through your support, this vision can become a reality for students from countries like Malawi, Tanzania, Kenya, Nepal, and India who are eager to teach and multiply disciple-makers in their own regions. Learn More Ephesiology: A Study of the Ephesian Movement If you want to understand principles for the growth of Christianity in the first century, the place to begin is the city of Ephesus. In this winsome study, Ephesiology offers readers a comprehensive view of the empowering work of the Holy Spirit in the most significant city of the New Testament, and compels us to ask the question: how can we effectively connect Christ to our culture? “Masterfully handling the book of Ephesians and using its content as a definitive guide, Michael Cooper lays a theologically strong foundation that is both corrective and directive to disciple making movements. The principles he gleans from the book of Ephesians and related texts, help to ensure the on-going multiplication and maturation of a movement. Because these are supra-cultural principles, they are applicable anywhere in the world.” Marvin J. Newell, Staff Missiologist, Missio Nexus, Author of Crossing Cultures in Scripture Buy This Now! Educating to Shift the Tracks of History To shift the tracks of history requires leaders who are equipped to critically assess and engage the contours of contemporary culture. As a new initiative in collaboration with the Movement Leaders Collective, Kairos University, and Ephesiology, we deliver just-in-time theological education focused on issues important to you, mxAcademy is designed as the theological and missiological foundation to unlock your potential as a movement leader and catalytic thinker. mxAcademy is a dynamic and innovative educational experience rooted in mDNA.We dream of a church fully equipped, fully mature, fully mobilized, and fully alive. A church that lives and breathes the Good News of Jesus! Learn More Join a Community Conversation at Ephesiology Master Classes Areopagus Symposium Taking its inspiration from the historical and philosophical legacy of Athens, Greece, the Areopagus Symposium focuses on intellectual and philosophical topics related to Christology, missiology, and ecclesiology. We invite scholars, theologians, and practitioners from diverse backgrounds to engage in a profound exploration of the theological landscape at the intersection of these vital disciplines. Sign up for an Ephesiology Master Classes account and gain free access to the Areopagus Symposium. Check it out! The Ephesiology Podcast and Ephesiology Master Classes are ministries of TELOS.GO, a registered 501c3 non-profit agency committed to imaginatively missional ways of engageing culture, church planting, and theological education. Your donation to the podcast is tax deductible.

Parable Ministries Presents: Hebrews Part 11.Jesus secures a greater covenant, one sealed with his blood.-Scripture Explored: Hebrews 8 -Check out our other podcasts!"Rejoice, O Beloved!"CommentariesMy Dusty Bible-Connect with Us:contact@parableministries.comParableMinistries.comParablePublishing.comInstagramTikTok-RJ Olmstead is a central Arizonan who has set his heart to follow God's calling into academia. Using an undergrad focus on Behavioral Health and Ministry, and an M.Div. focused on Intercultural Studies and Missiology, RJ strives to engage people on their own grounds for Christ and biblical thinking through his adjunct professorship at Arizona Christian University and partnerships with parachurch ministries, such as Pickled Parables. With his wife, Camryn, the two aim to provide firm, faithful ground for their community through hospitality, biblical literacy, and higher education.-Music created by Chad HoffmanArtwork created by Anthony Kuenzi-If you feel led to give to Parable Ministries, please visit: Donate

Baptism is one of the most familiar practices in Christianity—and one of the most misunderstood. Is it a symbol, a sacrament, a step of obedience, or the moment salvation happens? In this episode we trace baptism throughout the Bible and through its many different religious expressions in order to find out what's doctrinally true. Along the way we tackle infant baptism, baptismal regeneration, “baptism by fire,” and why Baptists have historically treated baptism as an ordinance rather than a saving act. If you've ever wondered why sincere believers disagree so sharply on something practiced in nearly every church, this conversation will help you see both the history and the doctrine with clarity.Today we're joined by Dr. Chris Best, instructor of Missiology at the Living Faith Bible Institute. Dr. Best has spent years helping students think carefully about the church's mission and how doctrine shapes practice in real ministry contexts. His passion for Scripture and clarity in theological issues make him especially helpful for a discussion like this one. Dr. Best, we're grateful to have you with us—welcome to the show.For more information, please follow the link to read the notes for Episode 263.Additionally, listen to Episode 190: The Age of Accountability According to Scripture, for complementary information.Visit http://lfbi.org/learnmore

What if the greatest barrier to kingdom collaboration isn't theology—but ego? In this episode, we sit down with leaders from GACX (Global Alliance for Church Multiplication) to explore a radically different vision of partnership—one that doesn't begin with “what do I gain?” but with “what can I give?” From global church planting networks to theological education, we wrestle with a provocative idea: real collaboration may require us not just to win—but to lose. And in that loss, discover how the kingdom actually advances. Keywords: Church multiplication, GACX, Global mission networks, Missiology, Kingdom collaboration, Partnership theology, Church planting movements, Theological education, Missional leadership, Younger leaders in mission, Organizational discipleship, Collaboration vs competition, Unreached people groups, Microchurch / movement ecclesiology, Competency-based theological education. Sound Bites “Partnership is not pragmatic—it's theological.” “If I come to the table to lose… and you come to lose… then the kingdom wins.” “The first question is not how you benefit—but how others benefit from you.” “Collaboration is part of the DNA of the kingdom—the struggle is the ‘how.'” “What would it look like for an organization to have a cruciform strategy?” “We're not about our thing—we're about His thing.” “We don't just want multiplying churches—we want sustainable ones.” “Maybe the future isn't choosing between models—but building bridges between them.” Key Takeaways Partnership must be re-theologized The “lose-win” paradigm Collaboration requires structure, not just desire The power of collective action Organizational discipleship The emerging gap: movements vs. theological education The future is both/and Younger leaders need access Chapters (Based on transcript timing) 00:00 – Opening + PrayerSetting the tone: mission, Jesus, and kingdom focus 01:40 – Episode Intro + GuestsJoey Shaw & Valerie Hamilton (GACX) 04:00 – Humanizing the GuestsPoetry, basketball, third-culture identity 11:00 – What is GACX?Vision: a church for every 1,000 peopleCollaboration over duplication 13:00 – The Challenge of PartnershipWhy collaboration is hard in practice 15:00 – Rethinking PartnershipFrom “win-win” → “lose-win” 20:00 – A Case Study in Kingdom CollaborationReal-time resource sharing across organizations 24:00 – Personal Reflection on Ego & LeadershipThe hidden struggle behind collaboration 25:00 – Future Vision of GACXInitiative groups, global forums, younger leaders 29:00 – Organizational DiscipleshipCan institutions live cruciform lives? 32:00 – Biblical Framework (Deuteronomy)Giving without recognition 34:00 – Theological Education & MovementsBridging formal and informal systems 38:00 – The Future of SeminariesDecline, innovation, and new models 41:00 – Two-Loop Theory of ChangeBridging old and emerging systems 43:00 – Final Reflections + Call to Action Connect With Us Follow Ephesiology: Website | Twitter | Instagram | YouTube Follow Andrew Johnson @thediscfan.bsky.social If this episode encouraged you, please leave a review and share it with others exploring missional living in post-Christian contexts. Thanks for doing theology in community with us today! If you have a question or topic that you'd like to hear addressed on the Ephesiology Podcast, just send it to Andrew at thediscfan@gmail.com. Donate Find the podcast on your favorite podcast app Just search for “Ephesiology” Our Podcasters Michael CooperProfessor | Missiologist | AuthorMichael is the missiologist in residence with East West where he focuses on equipping and empowering church leaders in evangelism, discipleship, leadership, and catalyzing church planting movements in the most difficult to reach places on the planet. He is the author of Ephesiology: The Study of the Ephesian Movement as well as many other books and academic articles. He has lectured at universities around the world and serves as affiliate faculty at Kairos University where he facilitates the degree programs in partnership with Ephesiology Master Classes.Andrew JohnsonMinistry Lead, West Village ChurchAndrew is a proud husband, father and pastor who desires all to know the one true King. He is honored to serve at West Village Church in Victoria, BC. Previously, he's ministered in Houston, Chicago, Indy, Flagstaff and Tempe in a variety of church contexts. Andrew has a BA in Christian Ministry from Trinity International University and an MA from Phoenix Seminary. He is currently a Doctor of Ministry student at Kairos University and is the co-host of the Ephesiology Podcast. When not at work, he's an avid disc golfing, vinyl playing, Spider-Man following/collecting fellow. Go Pacers. Do you enjoy the Ephesiology Podcast? Partner with the Pod The Ephesiology Podcast comes to you from a desire to engage in community conversations about the intersection of theology and culture. We do not believe such dialogue should come with a cost so the podcast will always be free. However, if you've benefited from the Ephesiology Podcast, would you consider a nominal $5 per month donation? All proceeds from the podcast go toward helping bring needed theological education to the majority world through our Ephesiology Master Class initiative to end a theological famine. We'd be honored to partner with you to continue providing solid biblical, theological, and missiological content for listeners around the world. Donate Empowering Future Church Leaders Imagine a world where passionate, equipped Christian leaders spread God's Word in areas with the greatest need—leaders grounded in both deep theology and practical ministry skills, trained to make a lasting impact in their communities. Through your support, this vision can become a reality for students from countries like Malawi, Tanzania, Kenya, Nepal, and India who are eager to teach and multiply disciple-makers in their own regions. Learn More Ephesiology: A Study of the Ephesian Movement If you want to understand principles for the growth of Christianity in the first century, the place to begin is the city of Ephesus. In this winsome study, Ephesiology offers readers a comprehensive view of the empowering work of the Holy Spirit in the most significant city of the New Testament, and compels us to ask the question: how can we effectively connect Christ to our culture? “Masterfully handling the book of Ephesians and using its content as a definitive guide, Michael Cooper lays a theologically strong foundation that is both corrective and directive to disciple making movements. The principles he gleans from the book of Ephesians and related texts, help to ensure the on-going multiplication and maturation of a movement. Because these are supra-cultural principles, they are applicable anywhere in the world.” Marvin J. Newell, Staff Missiologist, Missio Nexus, Author of Crossing Cultures in Scripture Buy This Now! Educating to Shift the Tracks of History To shift the tracks of history requires leaders who are equipped to critically assess and engage the contours of contemporary culture. As a new initiative in collaboration with the Movement Leaders Collective, Kairos University, and Ephesiology, we deliver just-in-time theological education focused on issues important to you, mxAcademy is designed as the theological and missiological foundation to unlock your potential as a movement leader and catalytic thinker. mxAcademy is a dynamic and innovative educational experience rooted in mDNA.We dream of a church fully equipped, fully mature, fully mobilized, and fully alive. A church that lives and breathes the Good News of Jesus! Learn More Join a Community Conversation at Ephesiology Master Classes Areopagus Symposium Taking its inspiration from the historical and philosophical legacy of Athens, Greece, the Areopagus Symposium focuses on intellectual and philosophical topics related to Christology, missiology, and ecclesiology. We invite scholars, theologians, and practitioners from diverse backgrounds to engage in a profound exploration of the theological landscape at the intersection of these vital disciplines. Sign up for an Ephesiology Master Classes account and gain free access to the Areopagus Symposium. Check it out! The Ephesiology Podcast and Ephesiology Master Classes are ministries of TELOS.GO, a registered 501c3 non-profit agency committed to imaginatively missional ways of engageing culture, church planting, and theological education. Your donation to the podcast is tax deductible.

The Rise of Replacement Theology and Anti-Jewish Propaganda | KWR-0057 Kingdom War Room Episode Description In this Kingdom War Room roundtable, Dr. Michael Lake is joined by Dr. Mike Spaulding, Dr. Corby Shuey, and Dr. Justin Elwell for a sober, Scripture-centered discussion on replacement theology (supersessionism)—its historical roots, its modern resurgence, and why it fuels dangerous anti-Israel rhetoric in our day. We address: how supersessionism was codified historically and how it continues to shape today's conversations why God's covenants (especially the Abrahamic) are foundational to understanding the entire Bible the warning of Romans 11 and the inconsistency of claiming "Israel is replaced" while still appealing to Israel in end-times frameworks why "unhitching" from the Old Testament throws away the very definitions that make the New Testament intelligible the difference between critiquing a government's policies and condemning an entire people why the remnant must return to the Word of God—with God's definitions—if we're going to stand faithfully in the days ahead

Parable Ministries Presents: Hebrews Part 6.The rest Jesus provides is far greater because the rest he provides fulfills the rest Israel failed to enter due to disobedience. We enter this perfect rest through faith in Jesus Christ.-Scripture Explored: Hebrews 4:1-13; Psalm 95:6-11-Check out our other podcasts!"Rejoice, O Beloved!"CommentariesMy Dusty Bible-Connect with Us:contact@parableministries.comParableMinistries.comParablePublishing.comInstagramTikTok-RJ Olmstead is a central Arizonan who has set his heart to follow God's calling into academia. Using an undergrad focus on Behavioral Health and Ministry, and an M.Div. focused on Intercultural Studies and Missiology, RJ strives to engage people on their own grounds for Christ and biblical thinking through his adjunct professorship at Arizona Christian University and partnerships with parachurch ministries, such as Pickled Parables. With his wife, Camryn, the two aim to provide firm, faithful ground for their community through hospitality, biblical literacy, and higher education.-Music created by Chad HoffmanArtwork created by Anthony Kuenzi-If you feel led to give to Parable Ministries, please visit: Donate

From the 2026 EFCA Theology Conference, Dr. Kevin Vanhoozer—research professor of systematic theology at Trinity Evangelical Divinity School—closes the conference by exploring the end of Article 10 ("Response and Eternal Destiny") of the EFCA Statement of Faith.

It has been about 3 years since Josh Laxton assumed the role as Senior Pastor at Northland Church, one of Orlando's most well-known congregations. Josh has accomplished much for being such a young man, including achieving a PhD in Missiology, pastoring several churches, and being a professor at Wheaton College. He has a passion for Northland to be a church on mission for Christ. https://www.northlandchurch.net/ Also, a talk with Senior Counsel Stephanie Taub from First Liberty.

In this episode of The Mission Matters, Matthew and Ted are joined by Bradley Bell, Executive Director of Upstream Equipping, to discuss Bradley and Ted's newly released book, Missiology for Mission Pastors.Written specifically for those leading missions within the local church, this book addresses a growing gap. Many missions pastors and directors find themselves in the role with deep passion but little formal missiological training. Rather than offering a dense academic textbook, this collaborative volume provides a gospel-centered, biblically grounded, and practically applicable framework for missions leadership.Bradley and Ted unpack why this book was needed now, how missions leaders are currently being formed, and why mobilization inside the local church is just as critical as engagement with the field. Drawing from diverse voices, including global perspectives, the book equips missions leaders to think clearly, act wisely, and steward their role faithfully.This conversation also explores the internal and external responsibilities of missions pastors, the role of lead pastors in shaping missions culture, and why mobilization should be viewed not as recruitment, but as an invitation into God's redemptive story.The Mission Matters Podcast is a place to talk about the importance of our Mission as Christians. The Mission Matters is a partnership of Missio Nexus and Sixteen:Fifteen, who have a shared passion to mobilize God's people to be a part of His mission.

On this episode of The Jon Gordon Podcast, I sit down with Jeff Little, pastor, coach, and dedicated people-builder, for an uplifting conversation about leading with heart and purpose. Jeff shares his journey from stepping into leadership at age 21 to guiding a thriving community, highlighting the power of authentic care and connection. Together, we explore the "shepherd" approach to leadership, the importance of building real relationships, and how leaders can create cultures where people truly thrive. Jeff also discusses practical lessons from his books, Win with People and The Way to Win, emphasizing the difference between leaders who serve others and those who simply manage for their own gain. Whether you're leading a team, a family, or looking to grow personally, this episode will encourage you to embrace your role as a shepherd, reminding you that great leadership is about investing in others, building meaningful connections, and leaving a legacy through the people you empower.   About Jeff, Jeff Little is the founding and lead pastor of Milestone Church, with campuses across the Dallas/Fort Worth region. He has been in ministry for over 30 years. He is the founder of Lead to Win which exists to help pastors and leaders build healthy cultures and winning environments through gatherings, coaching, and resources. Jeff earned a Bachelor's in Religion from Baylor University, a Master's in Missiology from Southwestern Baptist Theological Seminary, and a doctorate from Southeastern University. He and his wife, Brandy, live in Keller, TX, have four children, and enjoy being "Papa" and "Honey" to their grandchildren.   Here's a few additional resources for you… Do you feel called to share your story with the world? Check out Gordon Publishing  Follow me on Instagram: @JonGordon11 Order my new book 'The 7 Commitments of a Great Team' today! Every week, I send out a free Positive Tip newsletter via email. It's advice for your life, work and team. You can sign up now here and catch up on past newsletters. Ready to lead with greater clarity, confidence, and purpose? The Certified Positive Leader Program is for anyone who wants to grow as a leader from the inside out. It's a self-paced experience built around my most impactful leadership principles with tools you can apply right away to improve your mindset, relationships, and results. You'll discover what it really means to lead with positivity… and how to do it every day. Learn more here! Join me for my Day of Development! You'll learn proven strategies to develop confidence, improve your leadership and build a connected and committed team. You'll leave with an action plan to supercharge your growth and results. It's time to Create your Positive Advantage. Get details and sign up here. Do you feel called to do more? Would you like to impact more people as a leader, writer, speaker, coach and trainer? Get Jon Gordon Certified if you want to be mentored by me and my team to teach my proven frameworks principles, and programs for businesses, sports, education, healthcare!

A thankful heart doesn't sit still—gratitude sends us into the world with the gospel. Discover how true thankfulness fuels the Great Commission and transforms the way we live, give, and go. CONNECT: Text “BRBELONG” to 651-419-4409 DONATE: bethelsrock.org/give LEARN MORE: bethelsrock.org NEW SERMONS | EVERY SUNDAY

This sermon was preached by Derek Overstreet on November 9th, 2025.

RJ Olmstead shares about humility and what it looks like when put to the test in Christian living.--Scriptures Explored: Luke 9; Psalm 138; Philippians 2; James 4; Romans 12 --RJ Olmstead is a central Arizonan who has set his heart to follow God's calling into academia. Using an undergrad focus on Behavioral Health and Ministry, and an M.Div. focused on Intercultural Studies and Missiology, RJ strives to engage people on their own grounds for Christ and biblical thinking through his adjunct professorship at Arizona Christian University and partnerships with parachurch ministries, such as Pickled Parables. With his wife, Camryn, the two aim to provide firm, faithful ground for their community through hospitality, biblical literacy, and higher education.--contact@parableministries.comhttps://www.parableministries.comhttps://www.instagram.com/parable_ministries/--If you feel led, give to the work of Parable:https://www.parableministries.com/donate--Music created by Chad HoffmanArtwork created by Anthony Kuenzi

This episode, featuring The Best of Missions on Point, looks at episode 79. The "Missiology You Need to Know" series continues with The Missionary Must Reproduce Himself. This seems as obvious as the nose on your face. However, missionaries tend to copy the forms of the churches in which they grew up and don't learn because of the absence of emphasizing this in ministry training schools.  This principle is essential for achieving the desired result of indigenous local churches. BTW, a church plant is not indigenous if the missionary is the lead pastor. The fact that this principle is so little or poorly practiced is damning to our Western missiology.

What does it mean to follow Jesus in a city famous for witchcraft? Pastor Steven and Sarah White share how their family and church bring the light of Christ into the heart of Salem, Massachusetts—especially during Halloween, when the streets overflow with spiritual seekers and darkness feels most tangible. ✨ Summary In this episode of the Lausanne Movement Podcast, Jason Watson sits down with Pastor Steven and Sarah White to explore what faithful discipleship looks like in one of America's most spiritually charged cities. From prayer walks through the Satanic Temple to welcoming thousands of visitors during Halloween, the Whites describe how God is using gentle presence, prayer, and joy to advance the gospel in Salem. They also open up about the importance of rest, marriage, and raising children amid spiritual opposition—and how light truly shines brightest in the dark.

Tuvya Zaretsky is one of the founders of the Jews for Jesus ministry, beginning his service in February 1974. He was raised in Northern California in the institutions of American Judaism. And he came to believe in Yeshua (Jesus) in 1970.During his career, Tuvya has provided leadership of Jews for Jesus branches in Chicago, New York, Boston, Los Angeles, and Tel Aviv. Tuvya is also the founder of JewishGentileCouples.com, a free counseling service for intercultural couples, operating out of the Jews for Jesus LA branch.Tuvya earned an M.A. Missiology in Judaic Studies at The Fuller Seminary School for World Mission and the Doctor of Intercultural Studies degree from Western Seminary in Portland, Oregon. He is married to Ellen, who is also a Jewish Believer in Jesus. They have three adult children and three grandchildren.

Perhaps you didn't think you needed to know about missiology, but understanding the priorities and foundation of practical missionary missiology is essential to comprehend the process of sending missionaries from your Church and supporting high-quality missionaries.  Your understanding of key missiological principles will significantly aid you in grasping and empathizing with the work and ministry of your missionaries.  This best-of-episode is the first of six outlining these key concepts.

Bob interviews Trevin Wax about his new book, The Gospel Way Catechism.Trevin Wax is Vice President of Resources and Marketing at the North American Mission Board and a well-known author, speaker, and cultural commentator. He also serves (along with Bob) as a fellow at The Keller Center for Cultural Apologetics. In this episode, Bob and Trevin talk apologetics. They discuss Trevin's newest project "The Gospel Way Catechism" and its unique approach to counter-formation. They also explain the role of cultural apologetics in explaining and defending the Christian faith.Chapters:(0:00) Introductions: What is Counter-Catechesis?(7:26) How to Decide What to Put In a Catechism(14:56) Who Should Be Using Catechisms?(21:40) Trevin's Contribution to “The Gospel After Christendom”(25:00) Explaining Cultural Apologetics(30:45) Lesslie Newbigin's Missiology

ABOUT THE EPISODEIn this week's episode Michelle Simpson welcomes Laura Brett, evangelist, author and a former qualified midwife.Laura discusses from her experience in health care the profound impact of the roll-out of the Covid mRNA injection. She shares insights from her book 'Losing Liberty, Finding Freedom,' addressing the spiritual and societal challenges of recent years. The conversation delves into themes of informed consent, spiritual darkness, critical thinking, and the importance of maintaining personal and religious freedoms in the face of increasing globalist agendas. Laura emphasizes the importance of repentance and acknowledgment from church leaders for partnering with worldly systems during the pandemic and highlights the healing and freedom experienced by individuals through the Harrogate Filling Station ministry. GUEST BIOLaura is an Evangelist, qualified midwife (BSc) Hons, Author of Losing Liberty Finding Freedom, international speaker and activist, and has worked both in business and for various charities over the past few years in a leadership, management and mentoring capacity. Since she was saved by Jesus Christ in 1992, she has been a lifelong advocate for women, freedom and an ambassador for positive mental health. Laura works part-time as the Evangelism Consultant for The Filling Station Trust – a network of spirit-filled, cross-denominational meetings of Christian worship, Word and ministry, focussing on Renewal and Evangelism. Laura and her husband Rob also lead The Filling Station in Harrogate.Laura has recently completed a post graduate certification in Missiology. She is placed on the frontline of ministry, speaking, sharing the Gospel and ministering in healings and deliverance. Laura lives in Yorkshire and has three children.ABOUT THE HOSTMichelle has been a believer for over 37 years, involved in full-time Christian ministry for 35 years in six countries on three continents, and is a master of transition and cross-cultural expert. Originally from the UK, Rev. Dr. Michelle has a doctorate degree in ministry (D.Min) with specialisms in Cross Cultural Mission and Natural Health & Nutrition and is ordained by Church For The Nations, Phoenix, USA. With huge experience of personal trauma, she is certified in grief, crisis and trauma counselling and Animal-Assisted-Therapy & Activities (AAT/AAA), is a trauma awareness trainer, and a C-PTSD survivor. She is author of the book, ‘Surviving Trauma, Crisis & Grief', printed in English and Mandarin Chinese and endorsed by US traumatologist and author, the late Dr H Norman Wright, formerly one of America's most prominent Christian counsellors. Michelle is a ministry co-founder, speaker, truth-teller, voice for freedom, advocate for the family, and has a passion for natural, healthy living and seeing people's lives improved. She homeschooled her three children, has ten grandchildren, is an artist, dog lover and keen gardener with a love for self-sufficiency.Disclaimer: I am not a medical doctor and it is recommended that you speak to your GP, doctor, or health professional of your choice regarding any medical concerns you may have.LINKShttps://linktr.ee/ChristianWellbeingShow Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

The guys talk about their recent trip to Eastern Europe and how the Holy Spirit is moving around the globe to reignite the flame of evangelism.

Ps Ash Smith - Hope Fuelled Missiology by Citipointe Church - Redcliffe

RJ Olmstead takes a brief survey of what the New Testament says about love by observing the idea of agape love and eleeo mercy.--Scriptures Explored: Mark 12:29-31; John 15:12; Philippians 2; 1 Corinthians 13:1-8; Romans 14; 2 Thessalonians 3:6-15; 1 Corinthians 10; Ephesians 4:25-32; Luke 10:25-37 --RJ Olmstead is a central Arizonan who has set his heart to follow God's calling into academia. Using an undergrad focus on Behavioral Health and Ministry, and an M.Div. focused on Intercultural Studies and Missiology, RJ strives to engage people on their own grounds for Christ and biblical thinking through his adjunct professorship at Arizona Christian University and partnerships with parachurch ministries, such as Pickled Parables. With his wife, Camryn, the two aim to provide firm, faithful ground for their community through hospitality, biblical literacy, and higher education.--contact@parableministries.comhttps://www.parableministries.comhttps://www.instagram.com/parable_ministries/--If you feel led, give to the work of Parable:https://www.parableministries.com/donate--Music created by Chad HoffmanArtwork created by Anthony Kuenzi

Crystal Gibbons interviews Brian Utter about his service to God's kingdom through media ministry.  Brian Utter is the Global Coordinator for World Mission Broadcast and also serves as the General Manager for the Shine.FM radio network at Olivet Nazarene University. He holds a specialized volunteer global assignment for the Church of the Nazarene. Utter earned a BA in Communications from Olivet Nazarene University, an MA in Missiology from Nazarene Theological Seminary, and an MA in Communications from the University of Barcelona. Previously, he was the Regional Communications Coordinator for the South America Region from 2001 to 2008. You can find more information about World Mission Broadcast at World Mission Broadcast.   Lifelong Learning Code: 80890 Click here to learn about Lifelong Learning

In this conversation with Emanuel Prinz, we dig into his latest research, exploring what actually catalyzes movements, the kinds of leaders and teams that sustain them, and what blocks them from taking root. We'll talk about the personal and spiritual qualities of movement catalysts, why reproducibility matters more than charisma, and how partnering with God, rather than simply following a method—is essential to see lasting fruit. Along the way, we wrestle with questions of multiplication, DNA, and the risks of bottleneck leadership. If you care about genuine spiritual movement, if you want to see communities transformed and leaders multiplied, not just in theory but in practice, you won't want to miss this episode. So join us because this conversation is packed with wisdom and hard-won insight for anyone longing to shift culture in meaningful ways.DR. EMANUEL PRINZ has partnered with God to start a movement in North Africa and speaks from personal experience. He has researched kingdom Christian movements across the globe for fifteen years. Currently, he serves ministries worldwide as an expert movement consultant, coach, trainer, and researcher, facilitating their progression toward movements. Through his Exponential Disciple-Making and MOVES Coaching trainings, more than 12,000 leaders in over fifty countries have been equipped. Prinz has taught at Columbia International University, the European School for Culture and Theology, and Bethany Global University. He is the author of Movement Catalysts and numerous articles in journals such as Missiology, Evangelical Missions Quarterly, Global Missiology, Journal of the Evangelical Missiological Society, Mission Frontiers, as well as in Christianity Today. Above all, he seeks to live as the Father's beloved. He blogs at www.catalyticleadership.info.Emanuel's Book:What Actually Starts MovementsEmanuel's Recommendation:The Forgotten WaysSubscribe to Our Substack: Shifting CultureConnect with Joshua: jjohnson@allnations.usGo to www.shiftingculturepodcast.com to interact and donate. Every donation helps to produce more podcasts for you to enjoy.Follow on Facebook, Instagram, Twitter, Threads, Bluesky or YouTubeConsider Giving to the podcast and to the ministry that my wife and I do around the world. Just click on the support the show link below Friar TimeThrough meaningful interviews and heartfelt conversations, Friar Time, hosted by Fr....Listen on: Apple Podcasts SpotifySupport the show

The purpose of Evil: A North Korean Christian Refugee Perspective (American Society of Missiology, 2024) is to describe how the North Korean refugee understanding of evil can shape missionary practice in the Korean Peninsula. The central research question guiding this study is, How do North Korean Christian refugees describe evil based on their lived experiences? Twelve North Korean Christian refugees were interviewed. The findings indicate that North Korean Christian refugees understand evil as the oppression of the vulnerable, primarily due to human activities, and as exemplified through governmental actions, human trafficking, and sexual violence. This study also discusses how North Korean refugees understand evil in light of theology, specifically teleology and theodicy, and explores how their understanding resonates with historic Christian beliefs in Korea. Analysis of the interviews provides practical implications for Christian ministry and theodicy as well as the sensitization of practitioners who work with North Korean refugees, specifically, to encourage practitioners to subvert the oppressive narratives that North Koreans are responsible for the evil that befalls them, and to be aware that refugees may have been traumatized by their own compatriots. Dave Broucek is a career practitioner and student of the global mission of the church. He values research into the lesser-known aspects of missions as well as scholarship that addresses the big questions of mission theory and practice. He considers it a privilege to host authors such as Dr. Klejment-Lavin in order to introduce 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

The purpose of Evil: A North Korean Christian Refugee Perspective (American Society of Missiology, 2024) is to describe how the North Korean refugee understanding of evil can shape missionary practice in the Korean Peninsula. The central research question guiding this study is, How do North Korean Christian refugees describe evil based on their lived experiences? Twelve North Korean Christian refugees were interviewed. The findings indicate that North Korean Christian refugees understand evil as the oppression of the vulnerable, primarily due to human activities, and as exemplified through governmental actions, human trafficking, and sexual violence. This study also discusses how North Korean refugees understand evil in light of theology, specifically teleology and theodicy, and explores how their understanding resonates with historic Christian beliefs in Korea. Analysis of the interviews provides practical implications for Christian ministry and theodicy as well as the sensitization of practitioners who work with North Korean refugees, specifically, to encourage practitioners to subvert the oppressive narratives that North Koreans are responsible for the evil that befalls them, and to be aware that refugees may have been traumatized by their own compatriots. Dave Broucek is a career practitioner and student of the global mission of the church. He values research into the lesser-known aspects of missions as well as scholarship that addresses the big questions of mission theory and practice. He considers it a privilege to host authors such as Dr. Klejment-Lavin in order to introduce 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

Send us a textToday on the podcast the guys sit down with JR Rosko to talk about the Order of the Common Life.Rev. Dr. J.R. Rozko is a seasoned pastor, educator, and missiologist dedicated to integrating theological formation with local church ministry. He holds a Doctorate in Missiology from Fuller Theological Seminary, focusing on missional ecclesiology.   He co-founded and served as National Director of Missio Alliance for over eight years.  Currently, he and his wife, Rev. Canon Amy Rozko, co-lead Common Life Church in Canton, Ohio, where J.R. serves as Pastor for Calling & Community Development.   J.R. is also a novitiate member of the Order of the Common Life, a global ecumenical religious order reimagining monastic formation in everyday life.  He, Amy, and their two daughters, Aubrey and Junia, reside in Canton, Ohio, where they are deeply involved in their local community and congregation. www.orderofthecommonlife.org

On this episode of The Ephesiology Podcast, Andrew and Michael dive into the soil, stones, and stories of Asia Minor to uncover how the early church lived out its faith amid empire, beauty, and persecution. Join us as we welcome guests Michelle Wegner, Dave Brunelle, and Wade Mantlo—fellow travelers who recently returned from a transformative archaeological … Continue reading "Episode 194: Researching Missiology and Archaeology"

In this episode of Pastor Matters, the team introduces a relevant resource for pastors from Dr. Scott Hildreth. Dr. Hildreth is an Associate Professor of Missiology and Associate Dean of Ministry Studies at SEBTS. He shares his journey to faith, his passion for evangelism and missions, and insights from his upcoming book, 'A Short Guide to Evangelism and Missions.' He emphasizes the importance of the Great Commission, the need for pastors to model evangelism, and practical steps to encourage church members in sharing their faith. We hope this episode is encouraging to you today! Let us know how this episode encouraged you or share any feedback you have by emailing us at pastorscenter@sebts.edu. Resources in this episode: A Short Guide to Evangelism and Missions by Scott Hildreth will be released on May 6, 2025. Pastor Matters is produced by Southeastern Baptist Theological Seminary. Find out how Southeastern can equip you to GO by visiting sebts.edu.

Tithing has long been a fundamental practice among Christians as an act of faith and obedience. Many churches today continue to emphasize tithing as a means of supporting ministry, aiding the needy, and demonstrating trust in God's provision.No doubt about it though, when money is involved, there will be bad actors. With the rise of televangelism and the seed-faith gospel, many Christians have grown cynical about giving. Even in local churches, there is a growing sentiment that the Christian is not responsible for the tithe, but that it is an Old Testament practice, done away with in the New Testament. Is that true? What does scripture reveal about the practice of the tithe? Is it relevant today?Brandon Briscoe, Provost of Living Faith Bible Institute, has invited Pastor Chris Best, Missiology instructor at the Living Faith Bible Institute onto the show to address this subject from a biblical perspective.Visit https://lfbi.org/learnmore

“We Give Thanks”; Music and words by Jon Althoff and Marc Willerton © 2022 Sovereign Grace Worship/ASCAP (administrated by Integrity Music). Sovereign Grace Music, a division of Sovereign Grace Churches. All rights reserved.

The testimony of RJ Olmstead, in which he shares how God uses the people and circumstances of our lives in ways we could never know.--RJ Olmstead is a central Arizonan who has set his heart to follow God's calling into academia. Using an undergrad focus on Behavioral Health and Ministry, and an M.Div. focused on Intercultural Studies and Missiology, RJ strives to engage people on their own grounds for Christ and biblical thinking through his adjunct professorship at Arizona Christian University and partnerships with parachurch ministries, such as Pickled Parables. With his wife, Camryn, the two aim to provide firm, faithful ground for their community through hospitality, biblical literacy, and higher education.--contact@parableministries.comhttps://www.parableministries.comhttps://www.instagram.com/parable_ministries/--If you feel led, give to the work of Parable:https://www.parableministries.com/donate--Music created by Chad HoffmanArtwork created by Anthony Kuenzi

“We Give Thanks”; Music and words by Jon Althoff and Marc Willerton © 2022 Sovereign Grace Worship/ASCAP (administrated by Integrity Music). Sovereign Grace Music, a division of Sovereign Grace Churches. All rights reserved.

Every church should be a safe space for everyone who comes in. Every church should also be equipping people to confront the powers of darkness and help those in trouble. Unfortunately, far too many churches are unsafe internally, which leaves them unprepared to confront external dangers. An unsafe church creates a toxic environment that works against the gospel. A safe church is battle-ready to combat the worst of the world's problems. Make My Church Safe by respected pastor, Sam Rainer, is designed to be a brief and general overview of the best practices regarding church safety for a broad audience. Sam Rainer serves as president of Church Answers. He is the co-founder of Rainer Publishing, and he also serves as lead pastor at West Bradenton Baptist Church in Southwest Florida. Sam has written hundreds of articles for several publications. He is a frequent conference speaker on church health issues. Sam holds a BS in Finance and Marketing from the University of South Carolina, an MA in Missiology from Southern Seminary, and a PhD in Leadership Studies at Dallas Baptist University. Thanks for joining us today. If you like what you are hearing on the MinistryWatch podcast, please like and rate us on your podcast app. Or, you can go old school, and simply tell a friend. The producer for today's program is Jeff McIntosh. I'm Warren Smith, and I hope you'll join me again tomorrow for another episode of the MinistryWatch podcast.

The trumpet is one of the most often used symbols in all of scripture. We see, particularly in the Old Testament, that the sound of a trump was used to gather an assembly, to call soldiers to war, and to draw people into worship. The Bible presents us with trumpets that call us into Christ's arms, and trumpets that mark destruction during the tribulation.How do the trumpets differ, and how do they help us better understand God's grand design? Today, provost of Living Faith Bible Institute Brandon Briscoe has invited James Fyffe, faculty professor of Missiology at the Living Faith Bible Institute to do a Bible study on the topic of the "trumpets" of Scripture.Note: As an added resource for this episode, check out this visual outline of the topics and times discussed in RevelationVisit https://lfbi.org/learnmore

In Missiology Reimagined: The Missions Theology of the Nineteenth-Century African American Missionary (Pickwick, 2024), Kent Michael Shaw I examines the lives and theology of early African American missionaries of the Antebellum and Reconstruction era. The enslaved and formerly enslaved constructed a hermeneutic and interpreted the sacred text through a lens that contradicted the enslaver's version of Christianity. They engaged Scripture on their own terms and embraced a theology of mission that compelled them to risk death and re-enslavement to pursue a global mandate from God. These pioneering missionaries were not only mission workers but missiologists. The reader will discover an applied missiology with relevance not only for the African American church of that day but for the church as a whole today. Dave Broucek is a retired cross-cultural missionary/coordinator of continuing education/international ministries director, having served on the staff of two faith-based nonprofits, The Evangelical Alliance Mission (TEAM) and South America Mission (SAM). He holds a PhD in Intercultural Studies from Trinity Evangelical Divinity School, Deerfield, Illinois. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices Support our show by becoming a premium member! https://newbooksnetwork.supportingcast.fm/african-american-studies

Today, as a continuation of the Unknown Missionary series on The Postscript, we discuss the intriguing testimony and life (1887-1913) of missionary William Whiting Borden. Borden was a rich young man with incredible intellect and aptitude who gave everything he had for the cause of Christ. Provost of Living Faith Bible Institute Brandon Briscoe has invited James Fyffe, former missionary and faculty professor of Missiology at the Living Faith Bible Institute to have this conversation. Visit https://www.lfbi.org/learnmore

The church has been fitly joined to accomplish God's will in this world. This is confirmed in Scripture. Ephesians 4:16 says, "From whom the whole body fitly joined together and compacted by that which every joint supplieth, according to the effectual working in the measure of every part, maketh increase of the body unto the edifying of itself in love."God has provided each individual with unique gifts that they might contribute to the work of their local church to meet the needs of the brethren, and achieve the objectives of the Great Commission.Like many biblical teachings, there have been confusing and false teachings surrounding the subject of spiritual gifts. The Christian predilection for spiritual experience has given way to justifying much of these false teachings.Today on the Postscript, Provost of Living Faith Bible Institute, Brandon Briscoe, will be discussing spiritual gifts with Dr. Chris Best, Missiology instructor at LFBI – asking what the Bible has to say about the gifts and how they function to further our faith and God's will. For reference: A Chart of Spiritual GiftsVisit https://www.lfbi.org/learnmore