From Here To Eternity

Sam Rahmani, an Iranian refugee and PhD candidate, shares his journey from a non-practicing Bahai family in Tehran to becoming a Christian. Influenced by atheist mentors and philosophical readings, Sam was an atheist but later found faith through the reading Galatians. Sam highlights the complexity of Iranian society, divided between Muslim and Persian identities, and the importance of understanding cultural nuances and building trust in ministry.

Lamar Schubert, an overseas worker, joins Dr. Hopkins to discuss to utter lostness of Europe, differences in Orthodox and Protestant churches, and how to navigate political questions on mission.

Dr. Hopkins converses with missionary Paul Salem about raising children overseas verses in western contexts and where to start in reaching a city of millions.

Dr. Phil Hopkins interviews Geoff Logan about his experiences as a third culture kid growing up in Armenia. Geoff describes the cultural differences, and the challenges of reintegrating into American culture. He reflects on the importance of the gospel and the fulfillment that comes from sacrificing for the Lord, advising seminary students to embrace cross-cultural ministry for the unreached.

In this episode, Dr. Hopkins discusses the cultural and religious issues surrounding the dress code for women in Iran, particularly the hijab and chador. Including historical context of Western missionaries and the Iranian Revolution in the discussion, Hopkins argues that it is important to respect local laws and avoid actions that could harm the spread of Christianity in Iran.

Dr. Hopkins is joined by Scott Byrd, executive pastor of The Bridge Community Church in Ruston Louisiana, to talk about the how God's call for your life can happen in ways you don't expect, as well as the challenges and joys of ministering overseas.

When David Page moved to the Middle East, he realized something huge. The Persian culture had majorly Islamized Bible stories to the point were Christianity couldn't even be recognized. He decided that his work needed to be systemized and created a theological education program that has now grown to teach over 3,000 students every semester.

Dr. Hopkins sits down with Pastor Brian Kennedy to discuss Kennedy's call to pastoral ministry, racial tensions in the country, and how pulls for political power in America have affected the church's ability to accomplish the Great Commission.

Hovig Bajanian, an Armenian missionary to Armenia joins Dr. Hopkins in this episode. They talk about Hovig's Christian journey, the Armenian Genocide, and finding peace with God. 

The Armenian genocide took place in 1915 and is remembered yearly on April 24th. Armenians adopted Christianity in 301 AD becoming the first nation to make Christianity a state religion. Armenia is also known for it's beautiful landscapes and delicious cuisine.

To support and read more about Hovig's ministry, go to https://www.gracechurch.org/outreach/cten1

Dr. Hopkins is joined by Tony and Diana Rodriguez who run a ministry from Magnolia church in Southern California to help documented and undocumented migrant workers.