In this episode, we sit down with Nathan Shank to discuss what high school students interested in the mission field should do now.

Nathan shares this advice: If you sense that calling, start with the basics. Develop key spiritual disciplines that foster dependence on God, such as prayer, daily quiet time in His Word, confession, and more. He emphasizes the importance of trusting the Lord with the questions of "Where?" "What?" and "When?"—learning to surrender these uncertainties strengthens our faith as we witness His provision.

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In this episode, we sit down with the Heywards to discuss their current roles in Southeast Asia. William serves as a logistics service consultant for the IMB, assisting fellow missionaries with legal matters and coordinating the shipment of materials into various countries. Cindy also plays a key role in logistics—managing guest houses and overseeing the processing of language evaluations for new missionaries.

They share how their previous experience as full-time missionaries uniquely prepared them for these logistical roles. They love the variety in their work, the problem-solving challenges they tackle daily, and the opportunity to support fellow missionaries by meeting their needs.

The Heywards also open up about the challenges of their current roles, as well as the highlights and favorite experiences they’ve had while living and serving in Southeast Asia.

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In this episode, we have the privilege of speaking with the Haywards, a dedicated missionary couple serving with the International Mission Board (IMB). Both Cindy and William grew up in Oklahoma and experienced a strong sense of calling to missions from an early age. In this conversation, they open up about their journey, sharing how they met, their path to engagement, and how their relationship blossomed into a lifelong commitment to serving others. Today, the Haywards are working in Southeast Asia, where they are deeply involved in spreading the gospel and making a difference in the lives of those they serve. Their story is one of faith, perseverance, and passion for the mission field, and it's an inspiring example that we can all learn from and apply to our own lives.

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This episode is a recorded class lecture given while Nathan Shank was on campus with us in the Fall of 2024. 

Join us for an exciting podcast episode as Nathan Shank explores the history and progress of global missions and the International Mission Board (IMB). Nathan, a former missionary in South Asia, has also served with the IMB as a supervisor overseeing teams in the region. In this episode, he delves into the profound impact of William Carey, whose translation of parts of the Bible into local Sanskrit languages helped bring the gospel to India. Despite facing significant opposition, Carey's efforts paved the way for the "Great Century" of missions, which fueled the modern mission movement of the 20th century.

Nathan’s key message is that many people groups around the world remain unreached or unengaged. Since 2000, the IMB has reported engaging 106 unreached, unengaged people groups each year. While this statistic is remarkable, Nathan emphasizes that the work is far from over—there is still much to be done, and the harvest is plentiful.

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This episode is a recorded class lecture given while Nathan Shank was on campus with us in the Fall of 2024. 

Join us for a compelling conversation with Nathan Shank, the IMB Affinity Leader for South Asia, who shares his extraordinary journey and insights from over two decades of work in the region. Nathan walks us through his initial deployment to South Asia and his current leadership role, providing a unique perspective on the vibrant cultural and religious tapestry of South Asia. We promise you'll gain an understanding of the non-negotiable components of the gospel and the linguistic diversity among South Asian Muslims, including significant Urdu and Bengali-speaking populations. This episode sheds light on Nathan's profound experience and the challenges of evangelizing in a region rich with Hindu, Muslim, and other religious traditions.

We also navigate the spiritual landscape through the lenses of 2 Corinthians 4 and Psalm 49, contrasting the challenges posed by major religions with the hope and redemption offered by the gospel. Nathan helps us explore the notion that redemption cannot be achieved through human efforts alone, emphasizing God's role in redeeming life. By examining scriptural themes beyond mere verse numbers, we uncover the profound hope and assurance found in faith. Whether you're curious about the spiritual dynamics of South Asia or seeking deeper theological insights, this episode offers rich, thought-provoking discussions that illuminate the path of faith and redemption.

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Join our enlightening conversation with Brother Tom as he reveals the profound journey of his spiritual leadership and the personal trials that shaped his tenure as president of the International Mission Board (IMB). Brother Tom opens up about his steadfast commitment to nurturing his pastoral nature despite the challenges of a presidential role, and how his wife's courageous battle with cancer influenced this season of his life.

The power of prayer takes center stage as Brother Tom shares his lifelong dedication to this vital spiritual discipline. From the 1970s, when he began embracing the role of a praying pastor, to building a 24-hour prayer ministry, Brother Tom's experiences illustrate prayer's transformative impact on spiritual growth and mission work. He candidly discusses the rigorous work that prayer demands and how it has enabled him to contribute meaningfully to global missions without succumbing to the physical toll of constant travel. His stories of guiding individuals to Christ emphasize that prayer is a gift that strengthens with age and unwavering dedication.

Finally, we explore the mission and vision of the Tom Elliff Center for Missions at Oklahoma Baptist University (OBU). Dedicated to equipping the next generation of missionaries, the center aims to inspire students from all fields to spread the gospel, beginning at their local churches. The episode captures the excitement of sharing this mission and invites listeners to engage with feedback on how the center can further inspire future missionaries. This is an inspiring episode that celebrates leadership, prayer, and the preparation of future generations to make a global impact.

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Experience the sweeping journey of Brother Tom Eliff, our esteemed guest and the namesake of the Tom Eliff Center for Missions at Oklahoma Baptist University. From his formative years in Texas and Arkansas, where he embraced his faith at a tender age, to his academic pursuits at Ouachita Baptist University and seminary studies, Tom's story is one of unwavering commitment to sound doctrine and the transformative power of faith. Through his heartening experiences, listeners are invited to explore the vital role of doctrine in providing structure and mobility to a life dedicated to service and leadership in the ministry.

Discover how a profound missionary calling can reshape a life and a legacy. We listen as Tom recounts his time at Eastwood Church and the trials his family faced during a mission to Zimbabwe, which ultimately fortified their resolve and devotion. His story is a testament to the growth of church ministries in the 70s and the pivotal decision to embrace missionary work—a decision that profoundly inspired his community. Upon returning to the U.S., Tom's dedication only deepened, as he spent two decades nurturing future missionaries during his tenure at First Southern, leaving an indelible mark on both local and global mission efforts.

Mentorship and adversity take center stage in this episode as we delve into the nurturing of spiritual growth through life’s challenges. Tom underscores the importance of mentorship akin to the biblical relationship between Paul and Timothy, sharing personal stories of how mentorship has been instrumental in his journey. Through adversity, Tom teaches us to look beyond the struggle itself, seeing it as a divine classroom where God imparts wisdom and strengthens character. Embrace the opportunity to see challenges not as burdens but as divinely orchestrated paths for growth and transformation, leading to a deeper reliance on and understanding of God's plan for our lives.

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What if every Christian, regardless of their spiritual gifts, embraced the mission of sharing the gospel as part of their everyday life? Join us on the From Every Nation podcast as we explore this profound question, examining how spiritual gifts uniquely equip believers for their roles in God's mission without excusing them from the broader call to evangelism and service. We discuss practical ways for young believers to live missionally in their communities, seizing everyday opportunities to spread the gospel across cultural and ethnic boundaries in the spirit of the Great Commission.

In this thought-provoking episode, we dive into the biblical foundation of missionary work, drawing insights from the Apostle Paul's journeys. We illuminate the core tasks of a missionary through scriptural references, emphasizing the importance of establishing strong community ties and developing local leaders. The discussion further delves into the dynamics of transitioning between mission fields, guided by the Holy Spirit and scriptural wisdom. With a focus on flexibility and spiritual readiness, we encourage a Spirit-led approach to missions that aligns with each individual's unique calling, fostering enduring connections with past mission fields while opening new horizons for the gospel.

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Have you ever wondered how simple acts of faith and generosity can ignite a spiritual awakening? Join us for an inspiring look into the lives of faithful followers of Christ. A remarkable couple who've transformed their village through unwavering dedication and creative teaching methods. Despite literacy challenges, believers have become a beacon of hope and leadership, sparking a wave of new believers and inspiring others to lead with conviction.

Explore the incredible growth of Christianity in a remote S. Asian town witnessing a profound spiritual awakening. We'll delve into how local believers have maintained their vibrant faith and commitment to scripture even after missionaries left, illustrating the enduring power of community and devotion. Discover how their passionate engagement with scripture has not only strengthened their faith but also fostered a resilient and thriving spiritual community dedicated to spreading the gospel.

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What challenges await a newlywed couple who exchange the comfort of home for the unfamiliar landscapes of India? Glenn and Rhonda’s journey from newlyweds to missionaries is nothing short of extraordinary, and today we share their heartfelt story. Hear first-hand about their experiences moving to India through the 2 Plus 3 program, the culture shock they faced, and the deep connections they formed with locals, like a caring family of dobiwalas. Discover how adapting to a new healthcare system and other cultural challenges became part of their day-to-day life while raising a family in a land rich in diversity and complexity.

Join us as we step into the vibrant world of Rajasthan, a state bursting with culture but shadowed by high illiteracy rates and fears of persecution. Glenn and Rhonda recount their collaborations with local pastors and organizations, emphasizing the importance of cultural sensitivity and perseverance. As they navigated this landscape, they harnessed the power of prayer and leading by example, working alongside figures like Deep Raj to build a resilient and supportive Christian community. Through their efforts, they aimed to transform lives, using innovative tools like micro SD cards to overcome literacy barriers and spread the message of faith effectively.

The impact of their work is beautifully illustrated through the stories of individuals like Sukhdev and his daughter Lakshmi, who became beacons of faith in their communities. Witness how recorded teachings empowered them to inspire others and break free from traditional hierarchical structures, embracing a faith-driven life rooted in prayer and obedience. These narratives, filled with perseverance and a shared vision, showcase the ripple effect of accessible religious teachings. As Glenn and Rhonda reflect on their journey, they open the door to future missionary stories, inspiring a generation ready to make a difference in the world.

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