Podcasts about nik ripken

Myfriend, I will never forget something I read in Nik Ripken's book, “TheInsanity of God”. When he asked believers in China, who were being persecuted,how they endured such intense agony, pain, and suffering, they looked at him insurprise and said, “Haven't you read the Bible? Haven't you read the NewTestament?” It was the norm for believers in the first and second centuries tosuffer persecution—even into the 1500's through the 1600,s—for their faith inJesus Christ.  Myfriend, here in America we have no idea what that is like. Yet today, we aretold that the fastest-growing church in the world is in Iran. Do not forgetthat recently we were told that over thirty thousand people were executed bythe radical government there. Most of them were most likely believers who hadput their faith in Christ and were standing for truth. They chose to die ratherthan live without standing up for their faith in Jesus Christ. Thesuffering is not only there, but also in China, in Russia, in India, in Africa,and in parts of South America. The suffering is intense today. More believersare being persecuted, suffering and killed for their faith than at any othertime in Christian history. Yes, it could come to America, and it might not betoo far away. Paulsays “it has been granted” that you have been given this grace ofsuffering. He finishes by saying this in verse 30: “Having the same conflictwhich you saw in me and now hear is in me.” In other words, Paul is saying,“You are not alone.” You are going to suffer for Christ, but you are not alone.They no doubt remembered Paul's suffering in Acts chapter 16. He was beaten. Hewas imprisoned. Yet he kept praising God. Now they hear he is suffering inRome. And Paul is saying, “The same battle you face, I am facing.” Thisis so important because the enemy loves to whisper in our ears, “You are theonly one going through this. Nobody is suffering like you. Nobody has it as badas you have it.” But that is not true. First Peter 5:9 says, “Knowing thatthe same sufferings are experienced by your brotherhood in the world.” Weremember in First Corinthians 10:13, “That there is no trial, tribulation,or temptation that has overtaken you except such as is common to man. But Godis faithful.” Hebrews 12:1 reminds us that “we are surrounded by sogreat a cloud of witnesses”. The writer has just spoken of those who diedfor their faith. Weare part of something bigger: a global church, a spiritual family, a sharedmission. We are not alone—but most importantly, Christ is with us. In Hebrews13:5, Jesus says, “I will never leave you nor forsake you.” So when youare in the battle, remember: others have walked this path, others are walkingit right now, and Christ walks it with you. Psalm 23:4 says, “Yea, though Iwalk through the valley of the shadow of death, I will fear no evil, for Thouart with me.” Maywe live worthy of the gospel of Jesus Christ. Remember, that is the verse thissection began with: “Let your conduct be worthy of the gospel of Christ. Sowhether I come and see you or am absent, I may hear of your affairs—that youstand fast in one spirit, with one mind, striving together for the faith of thegospel” (v. 27). Paul also encourages us with Romans 8:31-32: “What thenshall we say to these things? If God is for us, who can be against us? He whodid not spare His own Son, but delivered Him up for us all, how shall He notwith Him also freely give us all things?” Inclosing, remember: Stand firm. Stand united. Do not fear opposition. Accepteven suffering as part of God's plan as we live—and determine to live—our livesand our faith for Jesus Christ. And Paul adds: “Andnot only that, but we also glory in tribulations, knowing that tribulation produces perseverance;  and perseverance,character; and character, hope. Now hope does not disappoint, because the loveof God has been poured out in our hearts by the Holy Spirit who was given tous.” (Romans 5:3-5)

Today we are continuing to look at Philippians 1, and we aregoing on to verse 29, where we come to a very challenging truth. It says this: “Forto you it has been granted on behalf of Christ not only to believe in Him, butalso to suffer for His sake.” Today we are going to be talking aboutthe gift of suffering. NowPaul says two things are granted by grace. Number one, faith to believe in Him.And how we all love and appreciate for that. We know Ephesians 2:8–9: “Forby grace are you saved through faith, and that not of yourselves; it is thegift of God..." Thank God for thegift of grace! ButPaul goes on to say, not only to believe in Him, but also to suffer forHis sake. Remember back in verse 28, Paul said “we should not be inany way terrified by our adversaries”. We should not be terrified by thosewho will cause persecution and suffering and inflict pain upon us. Why? BecauseGod has granted us this gift of suffering. Welove the gift of grace, but we might have a hard time understanding the gift ofsuffering, and it is even harder to accept. But what we need to understand isthat suffering connects us to Jesus Christ. Remember Philippians 3:10 wherePaul wrote later in this epistle: “That I might know Him and thefellowship of His sufferings.” In Romans 8:17 he wrote: “If indeedwe suffer with Him, that we may also be glorified together with Him”. Andthen verse 18, Paul goes on to say: “For I consider that the sufferings ofthis present time are not worthy to be compared with the glory which shall berevealed in us.” In1 Peter 4:13, Peter said, “Rejoice to the extent that you partake ofChrist's sufferings.” Remember Jesus Himself said in Matthew 5:10–12, “Blessedare those who are persecuted for righteousness' sake… Rejoice and beexceedingly glad,” that you have the privilege of suffering and beingpersecuted for Christ's sake.Wemust know that suffering is not meaningless. It deepens our faith, strengthensour character, and prepares us for glory. Thechurch in China, which has suffered so deeply under great persecution over theyears because of their faith, would tell us, “Don't pray that we are notpersecuted and that we do not suffer. Pray that we remain faithful.” When Ivisited the unground church there years ago the church leaders told us, “Persecutionpurifies the church”. As a matter of fact, we have heard that some churches inChina made it a requirement to have served time in labor camp prisons sufferingfor their faith to prove that they were truly a Christian before they couldbecome part of their fellowship of believers. Myfriend, that is not what we have faced so far in America, but it might not befar off! In James 1:2–3, it reminds us “to count it all joy when you fallinto various trials and tribulations”. In 1 Peter 1:6–9 we read: “Inthis you greatly rejoice, though now for a little while, if need be, you havebeen grieved by various trials, that the genuineness of your faith,being much more precious than gold that perishes, though it is tested byfire, may be found to praise, honor, and glory at the revelation of JesusChrist..." Nowlet's be honest—we do not naturally see suffering as a gift. But from God'sperspective: It is shaping us.Itis refining us. It is drawing us closer to Christ. So today: Do not waste yourtrials. See them through God's eyes. Trust Him in the process.  Inclosing this chat, I want you to read 1 Peter 5:6-11 that reminds us to humbleourselves as we face the attacks of the devil, “resisting him, steadfast inthe faith, knowing that the same sufferings are experienced by your brotherhoodin the world. But may the God of all grace, who called us to His eternal gloryby Christ Jesus, after you have suffered a while, perfect, establish,strengthen, and settle you. ..." Also a good book to read that would bless and give you abetter understanding of God's purposes of suffering in our lives is: “The Insanityof God” by Nik Ripken.

Welcome to our next episode of the King's Way Podcast Book Club! If you haven't already read the book we're reviewing, don't worry–this could be the talk you need to get you interested in reading it. Whether or not you've read it, welcome to the club!What do you know about life after death?How closely do you think your understanding of it aligns with the scriptural presentation of heaven and eternity?In this episode, Trevor and Ryan discuss N.T. Wright's book, Surprised By Hope, which is meant to help Christians leave our cultural understanding of heaven and the afterlife and pursue a more biblically faithful one. The guys cover topics like the distinction between the intermediate state and eternity, end-times escapism, and what "on earth as in heaven" means about heaven, earth, and us!Join the conversation below by commenting your thoughts on the ideas we shared from the book!Our next book club book will be ⁠The Insanity of God by Nik Ripken.https://www.amazon.com/dp/1433673088?ref_=cm_sw_r_ffobk_cp_ud_dp_DEZQKYM9G7SBBB0J1VC0&bestFormat=true

What is a martyr? Why was Stephen's death so pivotal? Do people still get killed for following Jesus? In this episode, Emma Dotter unpacks the death of the first Christian martyr in Acts 7:54-8:3 and the history of followers of Jesus being killed for their faith. Then, Watermark's International Missions Director, Bruce Kendrick, joins to discuss how we should think about persecution and martyrdom today. We don't have to fear death because Christ promises eternal life. // ADDITIONAL VERSES MENTIONED: Luke 21: 16 // RELATED JOIN THE JOURNEY EPISODES:  S4:266 – Acts 7-8 (https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/s4-266-acts-7-8/id1600151923?i=1000735540307) // RESOURCES FOR FURTHER STUDY: The Insanity of God by Nik Ripken with Gregg Lewis - https://a.co/d/01I1REnl Serve international students in Dallas: https://www.watermark.org/outreach/international-students  Learn more about international missions: https://www.watermark.org/discovermissions Learn about and pray for the persecuted church: https://www.opendoorsus.org/en-US/persecution/countries/  // WHAT IS JOIN THE JOURNEY? Join The Journey is a realistic daily Bible reading plan that helps followers of Jesus at Watermark Community Church and beyond enjoy abiding in Jesus together. Join The Journey Jr. is designed to help parents guide their kids in Bible reading through interactive and age-specific lessons. In 2026, we're studying the book of Acts—one passage per week. For another year, teaching on Sunday will align with each week's passage. Then, for the next six days, we'll return to the same passage with fresh focus, exploring insights about who God is and how we can enjoy him more deeply. Monday through Saturday, we'll approach the same passage from a different perspective each day—whether observation, interpretation, prayer, or another spiritual practice—to gain a deeper understanding and appreciation for God's Word. Then, watch or listen to the video podcast to tackle the week's toughest verses and discover key historical, theological, and practical insights. Daily Bible lessons for adults: https://jointhejourney.com Daily Bible lessons for parents and families: https://jointhejourney.com/jr Weekly Bible podcast for kids: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast...  // MORE RESOURCES FROM JOIN THE JOURNEY:  Digital Bible study resources: https://jointhejourney.com/resources Previous years' print curriculum: https://www.amazon.com/stores/Waterma... Contact the Join The Journey team: jointhejourney@watermark.org  

Nik Ripken has seen the price paid by faithful believers in some of Christianity's hardest places. On this edition of Equipped with Chris Brooks, Nik challenges us with the cost of following Jesus and the powerful role persecution plays in the life of a believer. Listen and learn to face your own suffering in the resurrection life of Christ. Featured resource:The Insanity of Sacrifice: A 90-Day Devotional by Nik Ripken April thank you gift:Equipped for Life: A 30-Day Devotional for Living with Courage and Compassion by Chris Brooks Equipped with Chris Brooks is made possible through your support. To donate now, click here. To become 1 in 100 who supports at $1,000 (annually or $83/month), click here.

“And for me, that utterance may be given to me,that I may open my mouth boldly to make known the mystery of the gospel,  for which I am an ambassador in chains;that in it I may speak boldly, as I ought to speak.” As we look at thesetwo verses, Paul is now asking for prayer for himself. What's striking is whathe does not ask for. He does not ask for release from prison. He does not askfor comfort, healing, or even safety. Instead, he asks the church at Ephesus topray that God would grant him boldness to speak the gospel of Jesus Christ. Wemust remember that Ephesians is one of the four Prison Epistles. The others arePhilippians, Colossians, and Philemon. Paul is in prison in Rome when he writesthese letters. To be a prisoner in Rome was no small matter. It was not apleasant place. No doubt he was suffering greatly—experiencing hardship, pain,and difficulties we can scarcely imagine. Yet Paul does not say, “Oh, pray thatI get out.” He says, “Pray that I have boldness. Pray that I have the grace ofGod to be an ambassador for Jesus Christ.” Inanother Prison Epistle, Philippians 1:12–14, Paul writes: “But I want you to know,brethren, that the things which happened to me have actually turned out for thefurtherance of the gospel, so that it has become evident to the whole palaceguard, and to all the rest, that my chains are in Christ; and most of thebrethren in the Lord, having become confident by my chains, are much more boldto speak the word without fear.”  Paul issaying that his testimony in chains has encouraged others. The guards know heis imprisoned for Christ. Fellow believers have grown more confident. They arespeaking the Word without fear because they see his faithfulness. Afew years ago, Iread the book, “The Insanity of God” by Nik Ripken. In it, he recountsinterviews with persecuted believers in places like China and Russia. Thosesuffering saints did not ask him to pray for relief from persecution, torture,or hardship. They asked him, “Pray that we will be faithful.” On oneoccasion, they even said, “Persecution is good for us. It purifies the church.”We are called to be ambassadors for Jesus Christ wherever we are. Today,I am asking for special prayer for a dear friend of mine. Just this week, hewas forcibly taken from his refugee work in a war-torn country and placed onthe front lines of conflict. He is 55 years old—a precious friend, someone withwhom I have shared mission trips and many meaningful times of ministry. Thiswas not something he was prepared to face. Yet he is not asking for prayer forrelease. We have not heard from his family that he is saying, “Pray that I getout.” Instead, they are asking us to pray for grace and for wisdom. He wouldwant us to, like Paul, to pray for boldness—to be a faithful witness whereverhe finds himself right now. Please,I'm asking you to pray for him. I cannot share his name or more details at thistime, but please pray for my friend. He is in a special place of need, and heis asking for boldness to be a witness where he is. Of course, we can also praythat he will be brought home safely to his family who are here in America.Please do pray for him. Aswe reflect on these passages of Scripture, we are reminded that prayer producesboldness. I thank God for the prayers that have been offered for me as apastor, as a believer, and during mission trips. I can sense those prayers.They make a tremendous difference. Prayer overcomes distance. Prayer dispelsfear. Prayer strengthens boldness. Myfriend, we must also remember that our spiritual leaders are special targets ofSatan. That is why we must pray for our missionaries, pray for our pastors, andpray for spiritual leaders across America. May God grant them grace to befaithful to the Lord for all they must face. Maythe Lord bless you as you think on these things. And as Paul says—"prayfor me”. Godbless you, and may you have a wonderful, wonderful day.

What kind of church do we want to be – a place where people are truly known, accepted, and led by the Holy Spirit? In this compelling sermon, we explore how persecution has shaped the early church and continues to define our response to opposition today. Facing hostility and mistreatment because of faith is nothing new for Christians, but how can it propel us forward rather than hold us back? How can we reimagine our response to persecution to align with the mission and purpose God has for us? Discover how persecution, while daunting, is an opportunity rather than an obstacle. By embracing persecution as a blessing, we align with the early church's legacy, displaying the love, humility, and courage of Christ. Through scripture, we will uncover how God uses adversity not to silence His Word, but to catalyze it across nations and hearts. Join us as we dive into Acts 7 and 8, understanding that each act of faith amidst persecution serves as a testimony to God's unwavering power.**Key Takeaways:**1. **Persecution is Not New**: Recognize that opposition is part of the Christian journey. Jesus Himself warned us, and history reaffirms the resilience of God's people.   2. **God's Plan is Unstoppable**: No amount of persecution can derail God's divine plan. When facing hostility, remember that God is still in control, using these moments to advance His kingdom.3. **Persecution as a Blessing**: Embrace persecution not merely as a hardship to endure but as a divine opportunity to display Christ-like love and virtue to a watching world.**Scripture References:**- John 15:18-20- Acts 7:54-60- 2 Timothy 3:12- Philippians 3:10- Matthew 5:10At 2Rivers, our mission is to help you become a passionate follower of Jesus so you can experience the life He intended for you and encourage others to do the same. Like, share, and subscribe to stay updated with more sermons and content! ➡️**Resources mentioned during the sermon:**- **Books**:  - "The Insanity of God: A True Story of Faith Resurrected" by Nik Ripken  - "Foxe's Book of Martyrs" by John Foxe

Nik Ripken and his wife, Ruth, spent decades sitting down with hundreds of persecuted Christians in restricted nations and hostile areas around the world. They didn't go to instruct these bold believers. They went to learn from them. The lessons they learned were published in The Insanity of God, Nik's book, and now he and Ruth have created a video series called Insanity Unleashed. In this series, they share lessons from believers in persecution to help Christians everywhere know how to live as sheep among wolves (Matthew 10:16). The lessons come from more than 650 interviews with persecuted Christians in more than 70 countries. Listen this week to hear stories from Nik and Ruth about their travels and what they've learned from persecuted Christians. They'll share how meeting believers in other countries gave them a better understanding of the Biblical truth that we are all part of one global Body of Christ. Nik and Ruth have been humbled by the fervent prayers of brothers and sisters around the world as they pray for Christians in free nations. Nik will explain how this video series has the aim of raising up evangelists and church planters who will go to the unreached, rather than only pastors and teachers who are trained to minister to those who've already heard the gospel. “[Many American seminaries and Bible colleges] train you up to be sheep among sheep,” Nik says. “We are teaching [Christians] how to be sheep among wolves.” Ruth and Nik also share advice on succeeding in the marathon of ministry, including the importance of daily time in God's Word and memorizing scripture—just as our persecuted family does as they prepare for persecution.

Nik Ripken and his wife, Ruth, spent decades sitting down with hundreds of persecuted Christians in restricted nations and hostile areas around the world. They didn't go to instruct these bold believers. They went to learn from them. The lessons they learned were published in The Insanity of God, Nik's book, and now he and Ruth have created a video series called Insanity Unleashed. In this series, they share lessons from believers in persecution to help Christians everywhere know how to live as sheep among wolves (Matthew 10:16). The lessons come from more than 650 interviews with persecuted Christians in more than 70 countries. Listen this week to hear stories from Nik and Ruth about their travels and what they've learned from persecuted Christians. They'll share how meeting believers in other countries gave them a better understanding of the Biblical truth that we are all part of one global Body of Christ. Nik and Ruth have been humbled by the fervent prayers of brothers and sisters around the world as they pray for Christians in free nations. Nik will explain how this video series has the aim of raising up evangelists and church planters who will go to the unreached, rather than only pastors and teachers who are trained to minister to those who've already heard the gospel. “[Many American seminaries and Bible colleges] train you up to be sheep among sheep,” Nik says. “We are teaching [Christians] how to be sheep among wolves.” Ruth and Nik also share advice on succeeding in the marathon of ministry, including the importance of daily time in God's Word and memorizing scripture—just as our persecuted family does as they prepare for persecution. The VOM App for your smartphone or tablet will help you pray daily for persecuted Christians throughout the year, as well as providing free access to e-books, audiobooks, video content and feature films. Download the VOM App for your iOS or Android device today.

Nik and Ruth Ripken went to Africa as missionaries. They experienced great works of God, but also great hardship and loss. Malaria almost killed them. Four Christian friends in Somalia were killed in one day. Their 16-year-old son died suddenly.  Out of their wrestling with grief and loss God gave them a new mission: meet with persecuted Christians all over the world and learn from them. For Nik, it was a very personal quest. “I don't know if Jesus is trustworthy anymore. Somali believers are dead. Our son is dead. Our dreams are dead. And we want to know, Is Jesus for the tough places?” Out of their quest Nik Ripken Ministries was born. Nik shared the lessons persecuted Christians had taught him in a book, The Insanity of God. The book eventually became a film, released shortly after this interview was recorded. Today, Nik and Ruth host their own podcast, Witness & Persecution, and have recently launched a video-based group study, Insanity Unleashed. Listen as Nik and Ruth share their stories of God calling them to missions from very different backgrounds, and the hardship and loss they experienced on the field in Africa as missionaries. The VOM App for your smartphone or tablet will help you pray daily for persecuted Christians in Syria, North Korea, Iran, China and other nations throughout the year, as well as giving free access to e-books, audio books, video content and feature films. Download the VOM App for your iOS or Android device today.

In this thought-provoking episode, we dive deep into the idea that faith isn't just about what God did in the past—it's about what He is still doing today. Featuring an insightful discussion with Nik Ripken, we challenge the mindset that sees the Bible as a historical record rather than an active, living testimony of God's ongoing work. Ripken emphasizes that we do not serve a “past-tense” God. The miracles, movements, and messages of the Bible are still unfolding in the present, and the same power that shaped the New Testament Church is available today. However, this truth also means that the trials and challenges of the Old Testament remain part of the faith journey. Are we truly embracing an active, present-tense faith? Or are we stuck believing in a God of the past rather than walking in His power today?

This is a REWIND episode of Witness & Persecution of past episode titled "Redefining Christmas". In light of the Christmas season, we thought this episode would be a good reminder for some and challenge for others on their perspective of Christmas. This is part one of two! We know we've been MIA the last couple months, but it's not without reason! There's a lot of new and exciting things coming up for Nik Ripken that we're excited to share. Stay tuned! ----------------------- Did you know that the wise men of the Bible were ultimately unwise men? Their story isn't a children's story set in an elaborate Christmas pageant. It's a story of persecution when Jesus was just a toddler. It's a story filled with drama and the genocidal slaughter of children. Christians living in the west are stuck with a faith narrative in our heads that is dominated by the culture in which we live. Nik begins a multi-part series to learn how believers in persecution get the Christmas story right. Learn more about Nik Ripken Ministries at: https://www.nikripken.com/ --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/nikripken/support

Nik and his wife Ruth have spent decades in the toughest places around the world with those who are seriously suffering for their faith, with the logic that we need to learn from such people how to do discipleship. His perspective and stories are so challenging. It was such a good podcast, we had to stop and offer a bonus episode following on from this one, which you won't want to miss! Wild stuff, listen here: https://youtu.be/SiA4-UiVa-UCheck out ‘The Insanity of God' and ‘The Insanity of Obedience' by Nik RipkenLook out for Insanity Unleashed - their training lessons for Westerners from the persecuted church. nikripken.com---Get daily or weekly Choose Life emails: chooselife.org.uk Join us for Inspired Live with Gladiator Warren Furman: greatlakesoutreach.org/inspired-live Support our work in Burundi: greatlakesoutreach.org/inspired ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠---Weekly episode WhatsApp link: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠greatlakesoutreach.org/whatsappWeekly email notification: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠greatlakesoutreach.org/inspiredemail⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠For more from Simon, visit: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠simonguillebaud.com⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠---Produced by Great Lakes Outreach - Transforming Burundi & Beyond: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠greatlakesoutreach.org⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠

Christians in much of the world today face pressures. Few, however, face anything as intense as those Christians who lived under the first few decades of authoritarian rule in either the Soviet Union or Communist China. At least not yet. While freedom and opportunity still remains, Christians today would be wise to consider the experiences of Christians under the Soviets and Chinese Communists. Though both situations shared many similarities, they developed in starkly different manners. Why did they differ so much? What lessons can we glean and apply in our own situations? And what cautionary flags can we recognize and avoid? On this encore episode of the Christian Emergency Podcast, Andy examines a helpful case study of the Christian experience under the Soviets and Chinese. This comparison, produced originally by Nik Ripken in his book The Insanity of Obedience, provides many helpful insights for Christians today. If you find this material helpful, please share it with your friends and leave us a five-star rating wherever you listen to your podcasts. Also, don't forget to subscribe to the show, so you'll never miss out when new episodes drop. To learn more about resources mentioned in this episode, see the following. The Insanity of Obedience: Walking with Jesus in Tough Places, by Nik Ripken (book): https://www.christianbook.com/insanity-obedience-walking-jesus-tough-places/nik-ripken/9781433673092/pd/673090 Christian Emergency Alliance: https://www.christianemergency.com/ Follow the Christian Emergency Alliance on Twitter: @ChristianEmerg1 Follow the Christian Emergency Alliance on Facebook: @ChristianEmergency The Christian Emergency Podcast is a production of the Christian Emergency Alliance. Soli Deo Gloria

One of the most critical aspects of cross-cultural work is how to practically care for those we send. In this episode, Nik takes a deep dive into the most important elements that individuals and churches need to consider to most adequately take care of our "sent ones".

Everything that God has ever done, He is still doing. Listen as Nik recounts a story out of Apartheid that demonstrates what it truly means to "give all" for Jesus and how the Biblical narrative continues to come alive all over the world.

Last week, East-West's The Even You Podcast came out with an episode featuring Nik Ripken. Join hosts, Mariah and Scott, as they interview Nik on what bold faith and radical obedience looks like.

If you follow Jesus, do you see your life as expendable or defendable? Are you defending your freedom to avoid persecution or willingly laying it all on the line for those who have never heard of Jesus? In this conversation, author and former missionary Nik Ripken explains what bold faith looks like. Serving in some of the most dangerous countries in the world as well as losing one of his sons on the mission field, Nik has seen unimaginable tragedy. However, he has also seen how insane faith can radically transform people's lives, even in the darkest places of the world. Our God doesn't call us to play it safe; He commands us to make disciples of all nations. Yet, no matter where we go, He is always with us. With that in mind, what would radical obedience to Jesus look like in your life?

In this episode with Nik Ripken and Pastor Wade Stevens of Longview Point Baptist Church in Hernando, MS we discuss the scarcity of men accepting the call to serve in overseas missions. We hope the men who listen to this episode are challenged and spurred on to go, to lead their families, and to develop their boys into godly men who are willing to go.Other Resources:www.nikripken.com

How do you teach your children while serving on the mission field? For many families considering missions, this is one of the most significant concerns. In this episode, Ruth Ripken shares their family's 36-year journey across various mission fields, offering invaluable insights into how they navigated the challenges of educating their children overseas. From homeschooling to relying on God's provision, Ruth discusses how their kids not only survived but thrived, thanks to God's guidance in every season. Join us as we explore how God equips parents on the mission field, the unique challenges of raising children abroad, and practical advice for families called to serve. Whether you're interested in missionary life, homeschooling, or parenting in unique contexts, this conversation with Ruth Ripken is filled with wisdom and encouragement for families around the world.

In this second part of the interview with Nik Ripken, author of The Insanity of God and The Insanity of Obedience, Cynthia and Nik talk about how we define persecution, the challenge of sharing our faith in the West, and the role fear plays in our lives. He gives an exhortation and encouragement to those in persecuted situations and shares about new resources coming available soon. 

In this two-part interview with Nik Ripken, author of The Insanity of God and The Insanity of Obedience, Cynthia dives deep into the topic of persecution.  Is persecution normal? Is the Western Christian response to persecution appropriate? We discuss this and more in part one.

Nik Ripken tackles one of the most pressing issues facing the modern church: Christian nationalism. Join Nik as he explores what it means to faithfully follow Jesus in a world where politics has been weaponized to divide, define, and instigate hatred. As Christians, we're confronted by a society that challenges our political views side-by-side with our faith. We're left asking, “How should Christians think about Christian nationalism?” With thoughtful biblical reflection and stories from his global experience, Nik offers wisdom about how Christians can navigate the tension between national identity and spiritual allegiance to the Almighty God. Whether you're seeking clarity or a deeper understanding, this episode will challenge and encourage you to think critically about how faith shapes your worldview. Learn more about Nik Ripken ministries at NikRipken.com Follow us on our socials @nikripken on Facebook, Instagram, and Twitter! --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/nikripken/support

In this episode, Nik Ripken tackles one of the most pressing questions many Christians have: "How should I think about Muslims?"

Almost 2 million people from over 40,000 churches embark on short-term international mission trips each year, driven by a desire to serve, make a difference, and spread hope. But how many of these trips actually leave a lasting impact? In this episode, join Nik and Anthony as they dig deep into the complexities of short-term missions and what it really takes to be a helpful volunteer abroad and answer the question "How do you know if a volunteer will be helpful overseas?". Nik shares a candid, eye-opening story about a volunteer he encountered that goes by the name, "Bum", and reflects on the challenges of evaluating a volunteer's true effectiveness. From the initial excitement of joining a mission to the often-overlooked realities on the ground, this episode offers an honest look at the heart of service. Whether you're a seasoned traveler or considering your first mission trip, you won't want to miss Nik's insights and practical tips on how to ensure that your service truly matters. Learn more about Nik Ripken ministries at NikRipken.com Follow us on our socials @nikripken on Facebook, Instagram, and Twitter! --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/nikripken/support

Nik and Ruth Ripken welcome Tim and Aileen Challies in this moving episode, where they share their journey through the grief of losing a child and how they've found hope and redemption through their faith in Christ. Through raw and honest conversation, they discuss the challenges of navigating such deep sorrow and how their faith has sustained them through the darkest moments. Join us as we dive deep into topics that resonate with the heart of ministry—grief, hope, redemption—and discover how these themes are lived out on the mission field and within the church. This episode serves as a reminder that our deepest wounds can become the source of our most powerful ministry. Learn more about the work of Tim Challies at Challies.com Learn more about Nik Ripken ministries at NikRipken.com Follow us on our socials @nikripken on Facebook, Instagram, and Twitter --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/nikripken/support

Join us for a powerful episode of Ripken Reports where Nik Ripken tackles the question: "How does knowing the context of the Bible help us in missions?" In this candid and insightful session, Nik shares his deep understanding and firsthand experiences from the mission field, explaining why understanding the Bible's context is crucial for effective mission work. Learn more about Nik Ripken ministries at NikRipken.com Follow us on our socials @nikripken on Facebook, Instagram, and Twitter! --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/nikripken/support

Have you ever thought how powerful it is when you as a believer have the ability to lift up prayer requests directly to God? Nik discusses both the power and practice of prayer as it relates to the first step of evangelism. Learn more about Nik Ripken ministries at NikRipken.com Follow us on our socials @nikripken on Facebook, Instagram, and Twitter! --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/nikripken/support

Join us in this episode of Ripken Reports, for an insightful chat with Nik Ripken as he shares a fascinating story about the pitfalls of cultural misunderstandings on the mission field - all starting with a cold Coca-Cola. Ever wondered why getting culture right is so crucial? Join Nik and Anthony in an episode full of wisdom, humor, and great stories. Perfect for anyone curious about missions and cross-cultural experiences! Learn more about Nik Ripken ministries at NikRipken.com Follow us on our socials @nikripken on Facebook, Instagram, and Twitter! --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/nikripken/support

Nik reminds us that obeying the Great Commission is not brain surgery - all of us are equipped and capable of sharing Jesus and gathering people in our homes, neighborhoods, and places of work. Listen in as Nik unpacks the simple, everyday obedience that changes the world. Learn more about Nik Ripken ministries at NikRipken.com Follow us on our socials @nikripken on Facebook, Instagram, and Twitter! --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/nikripken/support

When is the right time to take significant risks for Jesus? On May 2024, it was announced that a missionary couple in Haiti, Natalie and Davy Lloyd, were murdered by a local gang. Their remains were sent home to Natalie's parents in Missouri. This news shocked the world and brought in a lot of questions when it came to the topic of missions and risks. Join us on this latest episode of Ripken Reports as Nik answers the question that this terrible event has brought back to the surface - "When is the right time to take significant risks for Jesus?" Learn more about Nik Ripken ministries at NikRipken.com Follow us on our socials @nikripken on Facebook, Instagram, and Twitter! --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/nikripken/support

Tithing is a common practice in the West to which we rarely give much thought. But what do you do when you are on the edge of lostness with no storehouse in which to give your tithes? Nik sits down to address this issue, and how it relates to our obedience to the "more important matters of the law". Learn more about Nik Ripken ministries at NikRipken.com Follow us on our socials @nikripken on Facebook, Instagram, and Twitter! --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/nikripken/support

After 7 years, our video-based, game-changing missions resource for the global Body of Christ is finally ready to be unveiled this Fall! Nik and Anthony sit down for a surprise conversation sharing the story of how this resource came to be, and what Nik and Ruth hope to see happen through learning from Believers in Persecution in this material. Learn more about Nik Ripken ministries at NikRipken.com Follow us on our socials @nikripken on Facebook, Instagram, and Twitter! --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/nikripken/support

In this episode we hear the story of Nik Ripken.Nik and Ruth spent over 30 years obeying Christ's command to share Jesus across the globe. After 7 years in Malawi & South Africa, they moved to Nairobi, Kenya to begin work among the Somali people, in the context of war and famine. Many Somali believers there suffered for their faith. Most were martyred. Near the end of the Ripken's tenure among the Somalis, their 16-year-old son died. One year later, the Holy Spirit led the Ripkens to begin a global pilgrimage to learn from believers in persecution how to recapture a biblical missiology of witness and house-church planting in the midst of persecution and martyrdom. Currently the Ripkens have interviewed over 600 believers in persecution, exceeding 72 countries. Sitting at their feet, the Ripkens learned from the suffering church how to thrive amidst suffering, not merely survive. To learn more of their incredible story, or to purchase their books: The Insanity of God, The Insanity of Obedience & The Insanity of Sacrifice, visithttps://www.nikripken.com/To watch the documentary about the persecuted church that they made, visit https://www.insanityofgodmovie.com/Send us a Text Message._________________________________________________________________________________Do get in touch if you have any questions for Matt or for any of his guests.matt@frontiers.org.ukYou can find out more about us by visiting www.frontiers.org.ukOr, if you're outside the UK, visit www.frontiers.org (then select from one of our national offices). For social media in the UK:Instagram: frontiers_ukFacebook: @frontiersukfriendsAnd do check out the free and outstanding 6 week video course for churches and small groups, called MomentumYes:www.momentumyes.com (USA)www.momentumyes.org.uk (UK) _________________________________________________________________________________

This is a previously recorded speech from Liberty University's Convocation Ceremony titled, "Sheep Among Wolves". We thought it was a powerful message for anyone graduating, entering a new season of life, or needing some encouragement as we continue to walk this life as Jesus' followers, carrying the Good News across the streets and across the oceans. Listen in as Nik challenges students on what it truly means to share the Gospel in the hardest places on the planet. If you'd like to learn more about our ministry, you can learn more at www.NikRipken.com _______________________________________ On September 15, 2014, at Convocation, North America's largest weekly gathering of Christian students, Nik Ripken addressed the student body at Liberty University. Nik kicked off Global Focus Week with recounts of his life as a believer and work overseas in Somalia. He talked about heavy lessons he learned about sharing the word of the Lord and the persecution of faith in Somalia. He challenged the students to share the word about the kingdom of God and to love their enemies. Nik and his wife Ruth are veteran overseas workers for over 30 years. Nik is also a bestselling author about faith in persecution. --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/nikripken/support

Pastor Randy Solomon preaches from Daniel 1 and Daniel 2. He mentions The Insanity of God: A True Story of Faith Resurrected by Nik Ripken and Gregg Lewis. Click the arrow below, or if you're reading this in an email you can click this link, to play the service: This service is available for download free on iTunes, where you can also subscribe to our podcast. Search for "Westchester Chapel" on the iTunes Store. If you want to know more about starting a relationship with Jesus Christ visit www.WestchesterChapel.org/salvation.

We're taking a short break from recording new podcast episodes, so we thought we'd share this nugget of blessing with you all. Nik Ripken gave a talk at Southeastern Baptist Theological Seminary recently! Join Nik and the SEBTS community as he preaches from Matthew 27 on the hardships faced internationally by unbelievers and how it is our mission to go and tell them about our King, Jesus Christ. Thank you for Southeastern Baptist Theological Seminary for the opportunity and video!Learn more about the ministry at NikRipken.com

Nik and Ruth love college students! Not only have they been the recipient of years of encouragement and love at the hands of college and university students, but they have been able to pour back into them in recent years. In this epsiode, Nik shares a story of interacting with a Muslim-background college student, and the difficult truth that we can sometimes trade the truth of the real Gospel for an artifically flavored cultural Christianity. Learn more about Nik Ripken's Ministries at NikRipken.com

Nik Ripken, Founder of Nik Ripken Ministries and Author preaches from Matthew 27 on the hardships faced internationally by unbelievers and how it is our mission to go and tell them about our King, Jesus Christ.

We're taking a quick break from recording new episodes for Witness and Persecution, but didn't want to leave you hanging! We thought we'd reintroduce you to our MOST LISTENED to episode of ALL TIME - "Somebody's Coming". Nik Ripken talks about what he wished he knew during his first year in Malawi and what God has taught him since. Check out more episodes and learn more about Nik Ripken Ministries at nikripken.com

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

For those of us in the "open" countries, it's easy for us to dress up the suffering of believers in persecution. In this episode, Nik challenges listeners to identify with the real blood, sweat, and tears of the stories of persecution, truly grasping the human reality of suffering, and the real lives of people involved. Check out the show notes and blog post related to this episode at https://www.nikripken.com/blog Learn more about Nik Ripken's ministry at https://www.nikripken.com

ABOUT NIK RIPKENNik Ripken, alongside his wife and three children, served as missionaries for over 32 years primarily in North Africa and the Middle East. Nik is one of the world's foremost experts on the persecuted church and is the author of a number of books, including The Insanity of God and The Insanity of Obedience.ABOUT TALKBACKSOur Talkbacks are great opportunities to see how our faith engages with the world around us. This summer, we're excited to have four evenings that discuss how the gospel changes how we think about race, politics, the world, and our stories.Each Talkback, we get a chance to hear from a speaker for about 45 minutes before spending about 45 minutes in a Q&A. We encourage you to come with questions! 2023 SUMMER SERIES June 7 • The Gospel & Race with Isaac Adams June 28 • Faithfulness in a Polarized Society with Justin Giboney July 19 • The Big Three: Non-Negotiables from Believers in Persecution with Nik Ripken July 26 • The Gospel as a Better Story with Elizabeth Woodson MORE INFOFor more info, visit rccbirmingham.com/talkbacks

As we reflect on the persisting challenge of unreached countries, Nik Ripken invites us to reconsider our approach. By embracing the hard places and equipping local believers, we unlock the untapped potential to reach the darkest corners of the world. By choosing to go to the hard places, we foster sustainable movements, bridge cultural divides, and empower communities to become biblical advocates. Check out the show notes and blog post related to this episode at https://www.nikripken.com/blog Learn more about Nik Ripken's ministry at https://www.nikripken.com

In this episode, Nik Ripken explains the challenging task of reaching the unreached nations. He candidly addresses the notion that the efforts required to reach just one believer in hard and unresponsive places might not seem cost-effective. It often demands substantial resources and even the lives of dedicated believers. However, Nik's unwavering conviction is that the mission to reach the unreached is not about cost-efficiency: it's about obedience to the Great Commission. Check out the show notes and blog post related to this episode at https://www.nikripken.com/blog Learn more about Nik Ripken's ministry at https://www.nikripken.com

Best friends Nik and Pastor Tim sit down for an authentic conversation about how pastors and churches can effectively connect church members to every part of the Great Commission. Check out the show notes and blog post related to this episode at https://www.nikripken.com/blog/ Learn more about Nik Ripken's ministry at https://www.nikripken.com

In this episode, Nik unveils a heartfelt tale that transcends borders and celebrates the profound beauty of cultural exchange. He teaches us about the Xhosa naming ceremony for newborns. What does the naming culture in Xhosa teach us about authentic community? Check out the show notes and blog post related to this episode at https://www.nikripken.com/authentic-community/ Learn more about Nik Ripken's ministry at https://www.nikripken.com

Jesus gives us a direct command on how we are to treat our "neighbor". To fulfill that command, what should it look like, and to whom is it directed? In this episode, Ruth takes a deep dive into the world of Biblical hospitality, offering wisdom and tips gathered from decades overseas amongst various cultures. Check out the show notes and blog post related to this episode at https://www.nikripken.com/who-is-my-n... Learn more about Nik Ripken's ministry at https://www.nikripken.com

Nik Ripken has seen the price paid by faithful believers in some of Christianity’s hardest places.  Today on Equipped, Nik challenges us with the cost of following Jesus and the powerful role persecution plays in the life of a believer. Listen and learn to face your own suffering in the resurrection life of Christ! EQUIPPERS - Our next ZOOM MEETING is Thursday, April 20!  REGISTRATION DETAILS ARE IN YOUR E-MAIL INBOX.  Not an Equipper and want to attend?   Become an Equipper Today!

[Encore episode from May 2022] Christians in much of the world today face pressures. Few, however, face anything as intense as those Christians who lived under the first few decades of authoritarian rule in either the Soviet Union or Communist China. At least not yet. While freedom and opportunity still remains, Christians today would be wise to consider the experiences of Christians under the Soviets and Chinese Communists. Though both situations shared many similarities, they developed in starkly different manners. Why did they differ so much? What lessons can we glean and apply in our own situations? And what cautionary flags can we recognize and avoid? On this episode of the Christian Emergency Podcast, Andy examines a helpful case study of the Christian experience under the Soviets and Chinese. This comparison, produced originally by Nik Ripken in his book The Insanity of Obedience, provides many helpful insights for Christians today. If you find this material helpful, please share it with your friends and leave us a five-star rating wherever you listen to your podcasts. Also, don't forget to subscribe to the show, so you'll never miss out when new episodes drop. To learn more about resources mentioned in this episode, see the following. The Insanity of Obedience: Walking with Jesus in Tough Places, by Nik Ripken (book): https://www.christianbook.com/insanity-obedience-walking-jesus-tough-places/nik-ripken/9781433673092/pd/673090 Christian Emergency Alliance: https://www.christianemergency.com/ Follow the Christian Emergency Alliance on Twitter: @ChristianEmerg1 Follow the Christian Emergency Alliance on Facebook: @ChristianEmergency The Christian Emergency Podcast is a production of the Christian Emergency Alliance. Soli Deo Gloria