Followed By Mercy

Followed By Mercy

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Followed By Mercy episodes

  • Empowering Future Leaders Through Spiritual Mentorship

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    Unlock the secrets of effective mentorship and discipleship with our special guest, Chris Gardner—an insightful pastor and financial advisor. Today, we explore the profound biblical foundations of mentorship and how it transcends the secular business world, rooting itself deeply in discipleship training. Chris shares invaluable perspectives from his role as a philanthropic strategist, emphasizing the importance of reproducing oneself in others across various life arenas—business, family, and ministry. We highlight Apostle Paul's teachings on committing learned knowledge to faithful individuals and the critical need to prepare successors in every field.

    Prioritize life-on-life discipleship with us as we draw inspiration from Jesus and Paul's methods, showing that true discipleship goes beyond merely imparting knowledge from a pulpit or classroom. We delve into personal stories and experiences, illustrating that the most impactful mentoring happens through substantial, quality time spent with individuals. We discuss the essential practice of understanding and engaging with the lives we aim to guide, fostering genuine growth and transformation through shared experiences and close relationships.

    Leading by example, we talk about involving mentees in personal spiritual practices—from prayer and Bible study to handling life's challenges authentically. Learn how to identify potential mentees, show unwavering love and support, and assign small tasks to gauge commitment effectively. We celebrate our podcast's growing support with nearly 400 downloads, express immense gratitude to our listeners, and share our excitement about future episodes and the upcoming release of the new book, "Pain to Praise." Join us for this enriching conversation about the transformative impact of genuine, life-on-life relationships in mentorship and discipleship.

    Thanks for listening. Find us on YouTube, Substack, Twitter, LinkedIn, Facebook, and Instagram.

    29 min
  • Praying for Missionaries. Faith in the Fire: Missionaries Braving Danger for the Gospel

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    Imagine navigating through one of the most dangerous environments in the world, armed with only faith and a mission. In this episode of the World Evangelism Podcast, we recount harrowing tales of missionaries facing life-threatening situations in Haiti and Cameroon. From the tragic ambush of a missionary family in Haiti to a daughter's traumatic experience, these stories underscore the perilous reality these devoted individuals endure in their pursuit of spreading the gospel. We'll take inspiration from Paul's prayer requests in Colossians 4:3-4, emphasizing the necessity of divine intervention for protection and success in ministry, and the importance of God opening doors for preaching the gospel.

    Transitioning from Mexico to Peru as a missionary is no small feat. The challenges and anxieties of such a move are palpable, but prayer can make all the difference. I share wisdom from my mentor, who assured me that God's calling comes with His support, even in the face of rejection. Through personal anecdotes, we highlight the essential role of prayer for missionaries and pastors, whose success often hinges on the congregation's intercessions. Join us as we explore the complexities of effective communication across cultural and language barriers, and delve into the impactful role of mentoring. Let’s come together in prayer for these brave souls, and don't forget to subscribe and share the podcast to help spread this vital message.

    Thanks for listening. Find us on YouTube, Substack, Twitter, LinkedIn, Facebook, and Instagram.

    22 min
  • Standing in the Gap: The Vital Role of Prayer in Ministry

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    Imagine a world where your prayers could change lives and uplift those tirelessly working to spread the gospel. In this heartfelt episode of the World Evangelism Podcast, we uncover the profound impact of prayer on missionaries and pastors. Through scriptural insights and personal stories, we delve into the essential role of praying for safety, acceptance, and support for those on the mission field. Reflecting on Romans 15:31, we emphasize the necessity of prayer for deliverance from unbelievers and the acceptance of ministry efforts by the saints. We also shed light on the unique challenges missionaries face, from cross-cultural barriers to the demanding process of raising support during deputation.

    Moreover, we turn our focus to the pastors who guide us spiritually and the vital role our prayers play in ensuring their messages are impactful. Hear personal anecdotes about the dedication of individuals like Jean Smith and the powerful prayer practices of devoted supporters that uplift those serving in ministry. This episode is not just a discussion but a call to action—urging you to fervently pray for and actively support your missionaries and pastors. Feel inspired to make a significant impact in the world of missions, ensuring those on the front lines of spreading the gospel feel valued and encouraged.

    Thanks for listening. Find us on YouTube, Substack, Twitter, LinkedIn, Facebook, and Instagram.

    21 min
  • Upholding the Gospel in Hostile Territories Through Prayer

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    When we hear about the perils faced by missionaries, it's often a fleeting news item, but the recent tragedy in Haiti brings the reality of these dangers into sharp focus. This episode is a call to arms for prayer warriors, inspired by the Apostle Paul's example, as we delve into the challenges and spiritual battles faced by those spreading the Gospel. We honor the fallen while also shining a light on the courage and trials of national believers, especially in countries like Nigeria, where their faith often puts them in harm's way. Our conversation is a poignant reminder of the power of prayer and the need for a dedicated, persistent spiritual support network for God's servants on the front lines.

    The intensity of spiritual warfare and the vital role of perseverance in missions is further illuminated through a personal tale of defending a church in Arequipa, Peru. Listeners will hear how faith can be tested in the most extreme circumstances and the miraculous ways in which these tests can be overcome. As host, I also introduce the World Evangelism Podcast Challenge, encouraging our community to engage in the deeply impactful act of intercession for missionaries worldwide. Join us as we foster a collective effort to support and uphold those who are committed to the mission of sharing hope and love around the globe.

    Thanks for listening. Find us on YouTube, Substack, Twitter, LinkedIn, Facebook, and Instagram.

    19 min
  • The Unseen Struggles and Triumphs in Cultivating Church Leaders

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    Witness firsthand the raw emotions and invaluable lessons that come with nurturing spiritual leaders. I'm Austin Gardner, and in this enlightening episode, I open up about the bittersweet symphony of mentorship in ministry. From the heart-swelling pride of seeing mentees thrive and establish self-sufficient churches to the harsh reality of facing cultural misunderstandings and dependency issues, these stories are bound to leave an imprint on your heart. I'll also introduce two key resources, "Are you Called" and "The Ultimate Guide to Building a Healthy and Fulfilling Marriage," to further support your ministry journey.

    Navigating the intricate dynamics of missionary work, I dive into the perseverance needed when doubt and skepticism are thrown your way. Sharing my own tales of crossing cultural divides and fostering transformative relationships, I underline the importance of unwavering faith amidst spiritual battles and opposition. As we conclude, I reflect on the energizing facets of evangelism and invite you to join me in the awe-inspiring possibilities of God's work. So, come along and find encouragement and a shared sense of purpose for your ministry endeavors.

    Thanks for listening. Find us on YouTube, Substack, Twitter, LinkedIn, Facebook, and Instagram.

    23 min
  • The Call to Love Across Cultures in Contemporary Christianity

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    Embark on a transformative exploration of faith, understanding, and divine love as we tackle the Christian imperative to love the stranger amidst society's tapestry of cultures. We're peeling back the layers on Deuteronomy 10:19 to reveal the profound connections between ancient wisdom and our contemporary challenge to welcome the Hispanic community flourishing within the United States. Witness the unveiling of a groundbreaking book that redefines the essence of a Christ-centered marriage, highlighting forgiveness and proactive love as its cornerstones. It's a profound reminder for every couple to reflect the love of Christ in their union. Through these discussions, our hearts are set ablaze with a renewed passion for outreach and inclusion, cementing our shared commitment to fostering grace and love within our personal lives and broader communities.

    As we navigate the theological intricacies of evangelism, the question emerges: Are those unaware of the gospel truly lost? The spectrum of belief, from universalism to the doctrine of the elect, is scrutinized, balancing scriptural scripture with the Apostle Paul's fervent dedication to spreading the Good News. We're not just intellectualizing faith here; we're rallying a clarion call for action, inspiring you to share the life-changing message of Jesus Christ. Pivoting to the frosty frontiers of Russia, we dissect the complexities of missionary work in a landscape marked by youth, atheism, and societal tribulations. Echoing Melvin Hodges' vision, we underscore the creation of Indigenous Churches that resonate deeply with local culture and leadership, solidifying the foundations for a lasting spiritual legacy. Join us on this episode for an impassioned journey through the intersection of faith, mission, and human connection.

    Thanks for listening. Find us on YouTube, Substack, Twitter, LinkedIn, Facebook, and Instagram.

    25 min
  • Urgent Prayer Request: Global Crises and the Christian Response

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    Major take aways

    • The church must declare an "emergency" and be driven by an urgency to see souls saved and lives transformed by the gospel.
    • South Korea's alarmingly low birth rate signals a need for spiritual revival and the transformative power of the gospel.
    • The speaker emphasizes the urgency of praying for people in various parts of the world who have not heard the gospel.
    • The speaker calls for prayer for the conflict in Russia and Ukraine and emphasizes the need for missionaries to spread the gospel in these countries.


    Possible tweets you could use to help promote the podcast:

    Need a fresh perspective? Our podcast explores diverse viewpoints that will shift your thinking in unexpected ways. #NewPerspectives #MindShift #ThoughtProvoking

    Feeling burdened for the souls in Iran, Ukraine, Israel, and South Korea. Join me in prayer and listen to the latest World Evangelism Podcast for a global perspective on spreading the gospel #WorldEvangelism #PrayForTheNations



    The sudden passing of the Iranian president in a tragic helicopter crash is a stark reminder of life's fragility and the urgent need for hope amidst despair. As Austin Gardner shares from the heart in this poignant World Evangelism Podcast, a sobering reality hits home: nearly 90 million Iranian souls, predominantly Muslim, are living without the light of the gospel. This episode is a heartfelt plea, a summoning of the global church to awaken to the dire need for prayer and action in Iran, a land where Christians endure relentless persecution. Austin implores us to consider our role in bringing the message of Christ to those who have yet to hear it, highlighting the urgency of our mission with every word.

    Moving beyond Iran, Austin navigates through the smoldering battlefield of the Russia-Ukraine conflict, urging listeners to look past political affiliations and toward the countless lives caught in the crossfire, lives thirsting for the gospel's peace. He then transports us to the Israeli-Palestinian conflict, sharing personal experiences with missionaries who labor in hope among seemingly insurmountable strife. Lastly, he draws our attention to South Korea's national emergency, not of declining birth rates, but of a spiritual rebirth that is needed across the globe. Join in as Austin Gardner calls on us to kneel in prayer for these nations and rise to action, carrying the transformative gospel of Jesus Christ to every corner of the world.

    Thanks for listening. Find us on YouTube, Substack, Twitter, LinkedIn, Facebook, and Instagram.

    8 min
  • Navigating the Perils and Potentials of Leadership Mentorship

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    Venture with us into the intricate labyrinth of mentorship in leadership, where the stakes are as high as the rewards. Uncover the hazards lurking in the shadows, such as burnout from an unbalanced mentor-mentee exchange and the treacherous missteps when false knowledge is imparted. As I, your host, guide you through this episode, we'll confront the truth that leaders are not merely born; they're painstakingly sculpted through relentless pursuit of wisdom and the right guidance. Our journey will reveal how a mentor's role is akin to that of a compass, pointing the way rather than dictating the path, allowing for the empowering discovery of personal insights and solutions.

    Prepare to be challenged and inspired as we scrutinize the art of crafting effective mentor-mentee connections, anchored in the bedrock of clear goals, robust communication, and unwavering accountability. The episode unfolds the concept of knowledge as a wave, cascading from one mind to the next, with the power to initiate a global transformation. The dialogue also honors the natural evolution of mentees branching out on their own, a testament to the mentorship's success, and the obstacles faced in maintaining a laser-focused vision on proliferating the gospel and broadening church outreach. Your participation in this conversation is not just for personal enlightenment; it's a call to action, urging you to become an integral part of a movement with eternal implications.

    Thanks for listening. Find us on YouTube, Substack, Twitter, LinkedIn, Facebook, and Instagram.

    25 min
  • Expecting and Attempting Great Things in Ministry

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    Embark on a profound journey with me, W. Austin Gardner, as we traverse the vibrant paths of world evangelism, expanding from the bustling streets of Peru to the spiritual hunger in Bangladesh. Prepare to be enchanted by the tales of dedication and fervor that define the missionary experience. This episode promises to be an enlightening exploration of the roles played by both those who go and those who send, with a special focus on the indispensable 'Remainers' or 'Senders' whose contributions fuel this global endeavor.

    Witness the candid reflections and lessons learned from the mission field, where cultural immersion and humility pave the way for potent, life-changing ministry. From the historical legacy of William Carey to the timely wisdom found in Thomas Hale's "On Being a Missionary," this episode is an intimate look into the triumphs and trials faced by those called to serve. Join us as we uncover the complex beauty of missionary work, and may you too be inspired to expect and attempt great things from God.

    Thanks for listening. Find us on YouTube, Substack, Twitter, LinkedIn, Facebook, and Instagram.

    36 min
  • Overcoming the Fears of Mentoring: The World Evangelism Podcast with Austin Gardner

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    Hopefully you can tweet some of these and share the podcast:

    "Starting a mentoring journey takes courage and vulnerability. #Mentoring #LeadershipDevelopment #GrowTogether"

    "Don't let fear hold you back from making a difference in someone's life. #Mentorship #Impact #FearlessLeadership"

    "Mentoring is about investing in others and watching them grow. #InvestInOthers #PersonalDevelopment #MentorshipMatters"

    "Overcoming fears and taking risks is part of the mentoring process. #MentoringJourney #RiskTaking #PersonalGrowth"

    "Teaching others, even in our failures, is part of effective mentorship. #TeachAndLearn #LeadershipDevelopment #Mentorship"

    "Embracing the uncertainties of mentorship is where growth truly begins. #EmbraceUncertainty #GrowthMindset #MentorshipJourney"

    "Mentoring involves taking risks and stepping out of your comfort zone. #TakeRisks #ComfortZone #MentorshipMatters"

    "Mentoring is about guiding, supporting, and empowering others to reach their potential. #EmpowerOthers #PotentialUnleashed #Mentorship"

    "Mentoring is a calling to make a lasting impact on someone's life. #MakingAnImpact #LifeChanging #MentorshipJourney"

    "It's okay for mentees to outgrow your knowledge - it's a sign of successful mentorship. #OutgrowYourMentor #SuccessInMentorship"


    Key Take Aways


    1. Mentoring is about investing in the lives of others.

    2. It is normal to feel fear and insecurity when starting out as a mentor.

    3. It is important to challenge yourself to grow and learn more as a mentor.

    4. Mentoring is about being a leader of leaders.

    5. It is natural to fear not meeting the expectations of the person being mentored.

    6. It is important to have open discussions with the mentee in order to understand their expectations.

    7. Mentoring involves taking risks and being vulnerable.

    8. It is unrealistic to expect to meet all the expectations of the mentee.

    9. It is natural for the mentee to outgrow your knowledge and material, and that's a good thing.

    10. Being a mentor involves teaching even in your failures and shortcomings.

    11. Some mentees may not respect or value your knowledge, and that's okay.

    12. It is important to continually grow and not become stagnant as a mentor.

    13. Some mentees may not take your advice seriously, and it's part of the mentoring process.

    14. Mentoring involves stepping into the personal lives of the mentees and providing guidance.

    15. It is possible to lose the trust or respect of the mentee, and it's a risk to take.

    16. Mistakes can and will be made in the process of mentoring, and that's okay.

    17. It is possible for mentees not to achieve their goals, and it's part of the process.

    18. Mentoring involves working to prevent the mentee from becoming too dependent on you.

    19. Conflicts may arise in the mentor-mentee relationship, and that's normal.

    20. It is essential to approach mentoring with a servant mindset.

    21. It is possible for mentees to take advantage of your time and resources.

    22. Mentoring involves dealing with the emotional needs of the mentees.

    23. The contributions of a mentor may not always be recognized or appreciated.

    24. Mentoring involves taking a chance on people, even if there are fears and risks involved.

    25. A mentor's goal is to make a difference for the kingdom of Jesus Christ, despite the challenges and fears.




    Have you ever stood at the edge of a high dive, heart pounding, as you faced the clear, blue water below? That same flutter in your chest might mirror the trepidation of becoming a mentor. In today’s World Evangelism Podcast, we confront these natural fears head-on. I, Austin Gardner, guide you through the landscape of mentorship within leadership and faith, acknowledging the hesitancy that comes with feeling unprepared to meet a mentee

    Thanks for listening. Find us on YouTube, Substack, Twitter, LinkedIn, Facebook, and Instagram.

    26 min

About Followed By Mercy

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The Followed By Mercy Podcast


Real Grace, Honest Hope


You might notice a new name and a fresh look, but the heart behind this podcast is the same.…