In this episode of Amazon to the Himalayas, host Paul Akin talks to Dr. Jeremy Westbrook, the Executive Director of the Ohio Baptist Convention, about a significant revival event that occurred at Ohio State University in late August 2024.

• The event attracted over 2000 attendees and resulted in more than 60 baptisms. Dr. Westbrook provides insights into the event, the role of football players in spreading the revival, and the broader impact on church planting and collegiate ministry across Ohio. The discussion also delves into the challenges and strategies for engaging the next generation with the gospel and integrating them into local churches.

Mentioned in this episode:

Doctorate of Missiology at Southern Seminary

In this episode of 'Amazon to the Himalayas,' host Paul Akin, joined by Dr. Ayman Ibrahim, delves into understanding Islam from a Christian perspective and the challenge Islam presents in the Great Commission.

• Dr. Ibrahim, an expert in Christian-Muslim relations, elaborates on common misconceptions about Islam, the importance of apologetics, and how Christians can effectively engage with Muslim neighbors. The conversation highlights practical steps for local churches and individual Christians, stressing the significance of prayer and love in these engagements. The episode aims to equip Christians with the knowledge and tools to share the gospel with nearly 2 billion Muslims worldwide.

Mentioned in this episode:

Save Money by Studying On-Campus

In this episode, Paul Akin, Provost and Professor of Missions at Southern Baptist Theological Seminary, interviews Dr. Jimmy Scroggins, the pastor of Family Church in South Florida, and explores the Three Circles Evangelism tool that Dr. Scroggins developed.

• They discuss the importance of evangelism for Christians, the origins and purposes of the Three Circles tool, and how it serves as both a conversation map and an effective method for sharing the gospel. Dr. Scroggins shares insights into training others to use the tool and the impact it has had worldwide. The conversation also highlights practical advice for those looking to become more involved in evangelism and emphasizes the importance of practice and preparation.

Mentioned in this episode:

The NEW MDiv at Southern Seminary

In this episode of 'Amazon to the Himalayas,' host Paul Akin engages in a discussion with Dave Knotts.

• They explore the transformative impact of artificial intelligence and social media on mission work worldwide. Dave shares insights on how digital tools can be used to reach and engage the billions on social media with the gospel, emphasizing the exponential effect of these technologies in areas where traditional missionary approaches face challenges. The conversation covers practical examples and strategies for digital engagement, particularly in culturally and geographically diverse contexts. Highlighted are the innovative uses of AI for translation, image generation, and conversation triaging to optimize missionary efforts. The episode provides valuable perspectives for both aspiring missionaries and those already on the field looking to integrate digital strategies into their work.

Mentioned in this episode:

Doctorate of Missiology at Southern Seminary

In this episode of 'Amazon to the Himalayas,' host Paul Akin, Provost and Professor of Missions at the Southern Baptist Theological Seminary, is joined by Ryan Robertson, president of Reaching and Teaching International Ministries.

• Together, they dive into the complexities of the relationship between sending churches and mission organizations. They discuss the roles, responsibilities, and authority of each entity in the mission sending process, drawing experiences and historical context to illustrate their points. Key topics covered include the ideal cooperation between churches and agencies, the preparation and care of missionaries, and resolving authority issues on the mission field. They also address practical advice for future missionaries about working with their churches and mission organizations to fulfill the Great Commission.

00:00 Introduction to the Mission

00:27 The Role of the Local Church and Sending Organization

01:54 Guest Introduction: Ryan Robertson

06:44 Historical Context of Mission Agencies

09:02 Challenges and Authority in Mission Sending

11:45 Optimizing Church and Agency Collaboration

25:57 Practical Advice for Future Missionaries

28:37 Conclusion and Final Thoughts

Mentioned in this episode:

Doctorate of Missiology at Southern Seminary

In this episode of 'Amazon to the Himalayas,' host Paul Akin, Provost and Professor of Missions at the Southern Baptist Theological Seminary, discusses the practice of door-to-door evangelism with Dr. Todd Gray, Executive Director of the Kentucky Baptist Convention.

• The conversation addresses the viability of door-to-door evangelism in modern times, the personal experiences and stories of Dr. Gray, and practical tips for engaging in this type of evangelistic outreach. Dr. Gray shares why he is passionate about personal evangelism, recounts recent encounters, and highlights the importance of partnering in this ministry approach. Listeners are provided with practical advice on how to start their own door-to-door evangelism efforts, making this episode both informative and inspiring for individuals and churches alike.

Mentioned in this episode:

Doctorate of Missiology at Southern Seminary

In this episode of the 'Amazon to the Himalayas' podcast, host Paul Akin, Provost of Southern Seminary interviews Justin Schell, PhD student and the author of 'The Mission of God and the Witness of the Church.'

• They discuss the importance of aligning theology and mission, the central themes of Schell's book, and how the global rise of Christianity is influencing the relationship between theology and missions. They also talk about Justin's upcoming PhD journey, the challenges faced in writing his book, and the future of training the next generation for missions. The episode provides insights into developing a deeper understanding of theology and missions through intentional training and theological thinking.

Mentioned in this episode:

The NEW MDiv at Southern Seminary

In this episode of 'Amazon to the Himalayas,' host Paul Akin discusses the advancement of theological education in Latin America with Felipe Castro.

• Castro, a former businessman turned theological educator, addresses challenges and opportunities in providing theological training for pastors throughout the region. Despite historical Catholic dominance, the Protestant church has grown significantly, yet faces challenges such as the rise of neo-Pentecostalism and prosperity gospel. The conversation highlights the critical need for sound theological education, which is becoming more accessible through technology and initiatives by Southern Baptist Theological Seminary. The episode emphasizes collaboration and the importance of equipping leaders to disciple their communities effectively.

Mentioned in this episode:

Doctorate of Missiology at Southern Seminary

In Part 2 of our conversation with notable author and missionary, Nik Ripken, we learn about the encouraging but harrowing story of one man who was radically changed through the power of the Scriptures but suffered greatly for the sake of his witness.

• Nik Ripken shares his extensive experience and insights from visiting over 70 countries and interviewing more than 600 Christians living in persecuted contexts. Join host Paul Aiken, provost and professor of missions at the Southern Baptist Theological Seminary, as they explore what persecution looks like for Christians around the world today, how they stand firm in their faith, and the biblical perspective on suffering and persecution. This episode is filled with compelling stories and encouraging accounts of God's work in the midst of adversity.

Mentioned in this episode:

The NEW MDiv at Southern Seminary

Today's episode is part 1 of 2 of our conversation about Persecution and Suffering with noted author and missionary, Nik Ripken.

• Nik Ripken shares his extensive experience and insights from visiting over 70 countries and interviewing more than 600 Christians living in persecuted contexts. Join host Paul Aiken, provost and professor of missions at the Southern Baptist Theological Seminary, as they explore what persecution looks like for Christians around the world today, how they stand firm in their faith, and the biblical perspective on suffering and persecution. This episode is filled with compelling stories and encouraging accounts of God's work in the midst of adversity.

Mentioned in this episode:

The NEW MDiv at Southern Seminary