Summary
In this episode, the hosts discuss their summer experiences, including church retreats and personal growth. They reflect on how they saw God's work in their lives and the lives of others. The conversation transitions into an overview of the upcoming season, focusing on missionary taboos and the challenges faced in ministry. The hosts express excitement for the new season and invite listeners to engage with them on topics of interest.
Takeaways
Chapters
00:00 Introduction to the Podcast and Hosts
02:02 Summer Experiences and Church Retreats
08:25 Seeing God's Work in Personal Lives
13:34 Season Three Overview and Themes
20:56 Exploring Missionary Taboos
30:46 Closing Thoughts and Future Plans
Summary
In this episode, the hosts reflect on their journey through two seasons of the podcast, discussing their growth, key interviews, and the resources they've discovered along the way. They emphasize the importance of community, learning, and the tools available for those in mission work, while also looking forward to future seasons and inviting listener engagement.
Takeaways
Chapters
00:00 Introduction to the Podcast Journey
06:30 Reflections on Season Two
13:00 Key Takeaways from Interviews
18:56 Resources and Tools for Mission Work
22:36 Looking Ahead to Future Seasons
Summary
In this episode, the hosts discuss the critical role of community and collaboration in church planting. They emphasize the importance of surrounding oneself with supportive people, utilizing training resources, and engaging in prayer as foundational elements for successful church planting. The conversation also highlights the need for church planters to learn from each other and to integrate into local church communities to enhance their effectiveness in ministry.
Takeaways
City to City (Redeemer City to City)
This is a church planting network mentioned multiple times in the episode.
Suggested link: https://redeemercitytocity.com
Exponential
A global church planting network that provides training and resources.
Suggested link: https://exponential.org
M4 Europe
A Europe-focused network offering church planting training and coaching.
Suggested link: https://m4europe.com
Chapters
00:00 The Importance of Community in Church Planting
02:39 Navigating Church Planting Resources
05:46 Training and Support Networks for Church Planters
08:30 Collaborative Approaches to Church Planting
11:16 The Role of Prayer in Church Planting
14:07 Lessons Learned from Church Planting Experiences
17:20 Wrapping Up: Community and Collaboration in Ministry
Summary
In this episode, the hosts discuss the journey of church planting with Alex Brito, who shares his personal experiences transitioning from a chef to a church planter in London. The conversation covers the challenges and joys of church leadership, the importance of collaboration among churches, and practical advice for aspiring church planters. Alex emphasizes the need for support, the value of community, and the significance of being comfortable with the possibility of failure in ministry.
The London Project – Equipping and supporting church leaders in London; a major focus of Alex’s current ministry.
City to City Europe – Church planting network inspired by Tim Keller, where Alex serves as a link trainer.
Mosaic Multicultural Church (if a public site exists) – Alex’s current church plant in Elephant & Castle, London.
The Pilgrim’s Progress by John Bunyan – The book that reignited Alex’s faith journey.
Together for the City by Neil Powell & John James – About collaboration in church planting (co-author Neil Powell is from the London Project).
City to City’s Incubator Training – Mentioned as a key resource for church planters.
Union School of Theology – Where Alex is pursuing his master’s in theology.
Missional Communities by Martin Robinson – Jen references Martin Robinson’s work on collaboration.
Takeaways
Chapters
00:00 The Journey of Church Planting
08:58 Language Blunders and Cultural Insights
18:11 From Accidental Church Planter to Intentional Leader
24:08 Current Ministry and Future Vision
25:35 Understanding Church Planting Dynamics
32:11 The Role of Bivocational Church Planters
39:37 Collaboration Over Competition in Church Planting
46:20 Advice for Aspiring Church Planters
Summary
In this episode, the hosts discuss the complexities and challenges of church planting in cross-cultural contexts. They explore the debate between planting churches versus evangelizing first, innovative strategies for engaging communities, and the critical considerations for church planters. The conversation emphasizes the importance of understanding cultural contexts, the need for sustainable church structures, and the significance of collaboration among different church planting organizations.
Takeaways
Chapters
00:00 The Church Planting Dilemma
15:01 Strategies for Effective Church Planting
29:51 The Phases of Church Planting
44:50 Challenges in Church Planting
29:51 Navigating Church Planting Phases
30:20 Mission Organizations vs. Church Planting Organizations
39:12 The Importance of Networks in Church Planting
41:29 Critical Considerations for Cross-Cultural Church Planters
Summary
This conversation explores the multifaceted nature of field leadership, emphasizing the importance of mentorship, community, and conflict management. The speakers discuss the unique challenges faced by field leaders, the necessity of balancing organizational standards with individual needs, and the value of networking and support systems. They also highlight the significance of personal development and preparation for leadership roles, advocating for curiosity and continuous learning as essential traits for effective leadership.
Links to look into:
Team of Teams by General Stanley McChrystal
🔗 Official book site or Amazon
Working Genius by Patrick Lencioni
🔗 Working Genius official site
The Advantage (briefly alluded to in context from prior episodes) by Patrick Lencioni
🔗 Table Group – Official Book Page
Takeaways
Chapters
00:00 The Importance of Mentorship in Leadership
02:35 Understanding Field Leadership
06:23 Leading from the Middle: Balancing Advocacy and Organizational Standards
11:36 Conflict Management in Field Leadership
12:47 The Value of Community and Networking
18:22 Preparing for Leadership Roles
26:27 Supporting Field Leaders for Long-Term Success
Summary
In this episode, the conversation explores the journey of leadership within the context of missions, focusing on the experiences of Steve Schmidt, a reluctant leader who transitioned from missionary work to leadership roles. The discussion emphasizes the importance of building trust, navigating conflict, and the need for humility and self-awareness in leadership. Listeners are encouraged to embrace their strengths, support their teams, and lead with kindness and understanding.
Links mentioned in the episode.
Watership Down by Richard Adams
A classic adventure novel about a group of wild rabbits seeking a new home.
🔗 Official Publisher Page – Simon & Schuster
Team of Teams: New Rules of Engagement for a Complex World by General Stanley McChrystal
Explores how organizations can adapt to complexity through decentralized leadership.
🔗 McChrystal Group Official Book Page
The Advantage: Why Organizational Health Trumps Everything Else in Business by Patrick Lencioni
Focuses on the importance of organizational health for business success.
🔗 The Table Group – Official Book Page
The Peacemaker: A Biblical Guide to Resolving Personal Conflict by Ken Sande
Provides a biblical approach to resolving personal conflicts.
🔗 Relational Wisdom 360 – Official Book Page
PeaceWise
An Australian organization offering biblical peacemaking training and resources.
🔗 PeaceWise Official Website
Takeaways
Chapters
00:00 Introduction to Leadership and Personal Journeys
03:02 The Reluctant Leader's Journey
06:06 Building Trust and Team Dynamics
08:58 Navigating Conflict in Leadership
11:56 The Importance of Humility and Self-Awareness
15:05 Leading Up and Supporting Others
18:03 Final Thoughts and Encouragement for Emerging Leaders
Summary
This conversation explores the multifaceted role of field leaders in missions, emphasizing the unique challenges they face, the qualities that make effective leaders, and the importance of pastoral care and conflict management. The discussion also highlights the need for specialized training and the biblical foundations of leadership, providing insights for those in or aspiring to field leadership roles.
Takeaways
Chapters
00:00 The Unique Role of Field Leaders
02:29 Qualities of Effective Leaders
08:02 Navigating Field Leadership Challenges
15:50 Leading Diverse Teams
22:41 The Pastoral Component of Leadership
30:36 Skills and Training for Field Leaders
38:36 Biblical Insights on Leadership
In this episode of 'Going: where God is at Work', the hosts discuss the intersection of artificial intelligence and missions. They explore the importance of ongoing learning, share their experiences with various AI tools, and reflect on the benefits and drawbacks of using AI in ministry. The conversation emphasizes the need for creativity, human interaction, and the potential impact of AI on job markets and personal standards in creative work.
🛠️ AI Tools Discussed:
Gamma AI – Used for automatically generating slide presentations from text.
Suggested Link: https://gamma.app
ChatGPT (OpenAI) – For translation, word processing, and conversational language learning.
Suggested Link: https://chat.openai.com
Napkin AI – Mentioned as a visual thinking/brainstorming tool.
Suggested Link: https://napkin.one
NotebookLM (RAG - Retrieval-Augmented Generation) – AI tool for querying uploaded documents.
Suggested Link: https://notebooklm.google
International Coalition for Evangelical Theological Educators (ICETE) – Mentioned in relation to polycentric missions training.
Suggested Link: https://icete.online
Evangelical Missions Quarterly (EMQ) – A resource used for ongoing missiology learning.
Suggested Link: https://missionexus.org/evangelical-missions-quarterly
Canva – Used for document translation and design.Suggested Link: https://www.canva.com
🌍 Events & Networks:📚 Recommended Reading & Journals:🎨 Creative & Productivity Platforms:
Takeaways
Chapters
00:00 Introduction to the Podcast and Hosts
02:42 Exploring Artificial Intelligence in Missions
04:03 The Importance of Ongoing Learning
11:20 Experiences with AI Tools
25:03 Benefits and Drawbacks of AI in Mission Work
32:01 Concluding Thoughts on AI and Human Interaction
Summary
In this conversation, the hosts explore the intersection of artificial intelligence (AI) and missions, discussing its implications from theological, ethical, and practical perspectives. They delve into the rapid development of AI technologies, the various types of AI currently in use, and the financial considerations for missionaries and organizations looking to integrate these tools into their work. The discussion emphasizes the need for thoughtful engagement with AI, considering both its potential benefits and challenges. In this conversation, the speakers explore various AI tools and their applications, particularly in the context of language learning, research management, and visual presentations. They discuss the ethical implications of AI, the importance of choosing the right tools based on one's ecosystem, and the potential for AI to be used in redemptive ways within mission organizations. The conversation emphasizes the need for careful stewardship of technology and the balance between leveraging AI and maintaining human intelligence.
Takeaways
Chapters
00:00 The Intersection of AI and Missions
06:23 Theological Perspectives on AI
11:01 Understanding AI Development and Types
24:11 Financial Stewardship in AI Usage
24:36 Navigating the AI Ecosystem
27:20 Language Learning with AI
30:01 Research and Document Management Tools
35:59 Visualizing Information and Presentations
39:54 Encouragement for Non-Techies
42:06 Redemptive Uses of AI
44:21 Stewardship of Technology
summary
This conversation explores the intersection of artificial intelligence (AI) and missions, discussing its ethical implications, impact on language and communication, and its role as a tool for good and bad. The speakers share personal experiences with AI, particularly in the context of Bible translation and church activities, while emphasizing the importance of discernment in using AI responsibly. They also address the ethical dilemmas surrounding AI in evangelism and conclude with reflections on the future of AI in missions.
Takeaways
Chapters
00:00 Introduction to AI and Missions
02:52 Ethical Considerations of AI
05:59 AI's Impact on Language and Communication
09:00 AI as a Tool for Good and Bad
11:52 The Role of AI in Bible Translation
15:08 AI in Church and Community
18:05 The Importance of Discernment in AI Usage
21:12 AI and Evangelism: Ethical Dilemmas
24:09 Conclusion and Future of AI in Missions
Summary
In this episode, the hosts discuss the intricacies of short-term missions, emphasizing the importance of case studies, effective planning, and cultural training. They share personal experiences and insights on leadership dynamics within mission teams, the necessity of pre-field training, and the value of debriefing after mission trips. The conversation highlights various resources and strategies to enhance the effectiveness of short-term missions, ultimately advocating for a thoughtful and strategic approach to these endeavors.
Links:
Re-Imagining Short-Term Missions
Takeaways
Chapters
00:00 The Importance of Case Studies in Missions
02:25 Experiences with Short-Term Missions
09:39 Planning and Organization for Mission Trips
12:11 Leadership Dynamics in Mission Teams
16:14 Cultural Training and Preparation
21:59 Resources for Effective Short-Term Missions
25:50 Building Relationships and Debriefing
Summary
In this episode of 'Going Where God is at Work', the host and guest discuss the complexities and challenges of short-term missions. They share personal anecdotes, explore theological perspectives, and address the misconceptions surrounding short-term missions. The conversation emphasizes the importance of training, cultural humility, and the need for a holistic approach to missions that integrates both ecclesiology and missiology. This conversation delves into the complexities and principles of short-term missions, emphasizing the importance of training, cultural sensitivity, and a redemptive approach to mission work. The speakers discuss eight guiding principles for effective engagement in missions, the necessity of understanding cultural contexts, and the need for preparation to ensure that short-term missions are beneficial for both the sending and receiving communities. They highlight the importance of viewing missions as a lifestyle and the role of empathy in cross-cultural interactions.
Barna article on Short-term Mission Trips
Takeaways
Chapters
00:00 Introduction to the Podcast and Guests
03:00 Funny Stories from Short-Term Missions
05:57 Jesse Cruz's Journey into Missions
09:00 Theological Perspectives on Short-Term Missions
11:45 Bad Theology in Short-Term Missions
14:55 Reframing Short-Term Missions
18:09 Evaluating Short-Term Missions Effectiveness
21:04 Goals and Objectives of Short-Term Missions
23:46 Building Relationships in Missions
27:12 The Role of Short-Term Missions in Ecclesiology and Missiology
33:43 Understanding Short-Term Missions
44:29 Eight Mission Principles for Effective Engagement
53:12 Training for Short-Term Missions
01:00:04 The Importance of Preparation and Cultural Sensitivity
01:01:39 Redemptive Missions: A Higher Calling
Summary
In this episode, the hosts discuss the complexities of short-term missions, exploring both the positive aspects and the criticisms surrounding them. They delve into the emotional and logistical challenges faced by missionaries when hosting short-term teams, the potential harm these missions can cause to local economies and relationships, and the theological implications of their practices. The conversation emphasizes the importance of cultural awareness, setting clear expectations, and reframing short-term missions as opportunities for mutual exchange and learning.
Here is a link the article we refer to from The Gospel Coalition: Click Here
Takeaways
Chapters
00:00 Introduction to Short-Term Missions
05:47 The Pros and Cons of Short-Term Missions
11:49 Critiques and Challenges of Short-Term Missions
18:03 The Impact of Short-Term Missions on Participants
23:59 Theological Reflections on Short-Term Missions
30:08 Reframing Short-Term Missions for Better Outcomes
Summary
In this episode, Jesse , Alessandro , and Jenn discuss the importance of prayer in missions and personal spiritual growth. They share various resources, practices, and innovative tools to enhance prayer life, including books, apps, and community engagement. The conversation also emphasizes the significance of praying for the persecuted church and the role of the Holy Spirit in guiding prayers. Ultimately, they encourage listeners to find their unique rhythm of prayer that works for them.
Why Pray by John Devries
A Guide Book to Prayer by Marykate Morse
A Praying Life by Paul E. Miller
Every Moment Holy by Douglas Kaine McKelvey
Takeaways
Chapters
00:00 Expanding Horizons Through Prayer
02:51 Resources and Practices for Prayer
10:02 Innovative Prayer Techniques and Tools
17:33 Engaging with the Persecuted Church
23:06 The Power of the Holy Spirit in Prayer
Summary
This episode explores the vital role of prayer in missions, featuring guest Donna, who shares insights on prayer partnerships. The hosts discuss prayer as work, the power of community support, and the need for specific prayer requests. They highlight how both financial and prayer support are crucial for missionaries, especially in spiritual warfare.
Takeaways
Chapters
00:00 The Power of Prayer in Missions
06:04 Building a Prayer Team
12:07 Understanding Prayer as Work
17:53 The Role of Submission in Prayer
24:07 Encouragement and Discouragement in Prayer
25:06 Understanding Different Prayer Gifts
26:06 The Importance of Community in Prayer
27:30 The Work of Prayer
29:23 Stories of Impactful Prayer
31:52 Encouragement for Aspiring Missionary Supporters
33:46 The Role of Prayer in Missionary Work
35:39 The Connection Between Giving and Prayer
37:33 The Journey of Faith and Support
39:00 Insights from Prayer Partners
42:13 The Power of Specific Prayer Requests
44:05 Understanding Different Prayer Styles
47:22 The Impact of Prophetic Words
48:44 Collaboration in Prayer Requests
Summary
In this conversation, the hosts explore the multifaceted nature of prayer, particularly in the context of missions. They discuss personal experiences with prayer, the importance of prayer as a discipline, and how it serves as both a personal and communal practice. The conversation emphasizes that prayer is essential for spiritual growth, intercession, and sustaining ministry work. The hosts also highlight the challenges and misconceptions surrounding prayer, framing it as both a learned skill and a spiritual battle.
🔹 The Wheel Illustration – The Navigators
A discipleship tool outlining key spiritual disciplines, including prayer. Learn more: The Navigators – The Wheel
🔹 Epaphras in Colossians 4:12 – Wrestling in Prayer
Paul describes Epaphras as someone who “wrestles in prayer” for the Colossian church. Read Colossians 4:12 here: BibleGateway – Colossians 4:12
🔹 Martin Luther’s Three Hours of Prayer
Martin Luther is often quoted as saying, “I have so much to do that I shall spend the first three hours in prayer.” More on his views on prayer: Martin Luther on Prayer – Ligonier Ministries
🔹 Blink by Ted Dekker
A fiction novel that explores the power of prayer through a unique storytelling lens. Find it here: Blink by Ted Dekker – Goodreads
🔹 The Book of Common Prayer
A collection of prayers and liturgies used by many Christian traditions. Access an online version here: The Book of Common Prayer Online
Takeaways
Chapters
00:00 The Essence of Prayer
03:07 Prayer in Missions
11:43 Experiencing Prayer: Personal Journeys
21:40 Understanding Prayer: Work, Learning, and Submission
26:02 Prayer as a Battle
Summary
In this episode, Jesse Pauly, Alessandro Di Leonardo, and Jenn Williamson discuss the recent viral podcast featuring Wes Huff on Joe Rogan's show. They explore the implications of Huff's debate with Billy Carson, the role of apologetics versus evangelism, and the importance of context in conversations about faith. The hosts reflect on Huff's humble approach and the opportunities presented through digital media for sharing the gospel. They emphasize the need for discernment in listening to voices in the apologetics space and the importance of prayer for those in the spotlight.
🔹 Wesley Huff – Apologist & Biblical Scholar
Learn more about Wesley Huff, his work in Christian apologetics, and his research in historical linguistics: Wesley Huff’s Website🔹 The Joe Rogan Experience – Wesley Huff Interview
Listen to the full episode where Joe Rogan interviews Wesley Huff on the historicity of Christianity. Watch on YouTube🔹 Billy Carson & the Elevating Beyond Podcast Debate
Watch Wesley Huff’s debate with Billy Carson on the Elevating Beyond Podcast: Watch on YouTubeApologetics Canada Website
Takeaways
Chapters
00:00 Introduction to the Conversation
01:54 The Viral Podcast Episode
04:45 Wes Huff's Debate with Billy Carson
08:36 The Role of Apologetics vs. Evangelism
12:11 Wes Huff's Approach on Joe Rogan's Podcast
16:23 The Importance of Context in Conversations
19:57 Using Digital Media for the Gospel
23:41 Wes Huff's Humble Posture
26:03 Learning from the Opportunity
30:19 Final Thoughts and Reflections
Summary
In this conversation, the hosts discuss the importance of member care, particularly for those living abroad. They explore various strategies for maintaining emotional and mental health, the significance of community support, and practical resources available for missionaries. The discussion emphasizes the need for intentional planning in self-care and highlights the role of personal relationships in effective member care. They also share insights on external resources and the integration of mental health into ministry work.
Takeaways
Chapters
00:00 The Importance of People in Member Care
01:52 Pursuing Emotional and Mental Health Abroad
10:18 Practical Resources for Member Care
17:45 The Role of Community in Member Care
20:35 Exploring External Resources for Support
26:50 Integrating Mental Health in Ministry
33:58 Utilizing Online Resources for Soul Care
Summary
In this episode, the hosts discuss the critical importance of member care for missionaries, exploring Margaret Fitzwater's journey to becoming a director in this field. They delve into the cultural and theological perspectives on mental health, the impact of grief and loss, and the necessity of Sabbath for preventing burnout. The conversation highlights the evolving understanding of emotions within the church and the trends affecting mental health in the mission field, emphasizing the need for authentic relationships and proactive care.
Takeaways
Chapters
00:00 Introduction to Member Care and the Christmas Season
02:41 Margaret's Journey to Member Care Expertise
09:44 The Importance of Member Care for Missionaries
11:34 Cultural Perspectives on Member Care
15:15 Theological Perspectives on Emotions and Mental Health
20:33 Trends in Mental Health and Member Care
26:15 The Impact of Grief and Loss in Ministry
31:15 The Role of Sabbath in Preventing Burnout
36:53 Conclusion and Key Takeaways
