Episode Summary

In this episode, Matthew Doebler and Mike Hartman speak with Elise Gross, a "Third Culture kid" from Antigua. Elise shares her personal story and spiritual journey, including her frustration with the perceived lack of active roles for women in ministry and her discovery of strong female figures in the Bible. The conversation explores how her background shaped her view of women in the church and her eventual calling to a ministry role that allows her to use her spiritual gifts in a way that honors God's truth.

Key Takeaways

* Third Culture Kid: Elise discusses her experience growing up as a Third Culture Kid in Antigua and how it shaped her perspective on life and faith.

* Women in Ministry: She shares her journey of grappling with the roles of women in the Bible and discovering figures like Lydia and the daughters of Philip.

* Spiritual Gifts and Service: The conversation touches on the challenge of a spiritual gifts test that revealed her gifts of leadership and administration, and her struggle to find a place for them.

* Academia Christo: Elise describes her work with Academia Christo and how it allows her to use her gifts effectively in a structured ministry environment.

* Leadership vs. Headship: The episode concludes by distinguishing between the concepts of leadership and headship, emphasizing the importance of all believers being equipped for gospel proclamation while honoring God's design.

Links Mentioned

* Academia Christo: The organization Elise Gross works with, which provides resources and training for ministry and church planting. The website can be found here: https://wels.net/serving-others/missions/latin-america/

* Kingdom Workers: A global Christian non-profit that mobilizes believers to meet physical and spiritual needs. The website can be found here: https://kingdomworkers.com/

* Jesus and Jetlag with Ken Cherney: A previous episode mentioned in the conversation. You can find this episode and more at the podcast's main page: https://www.gospelcenteredmentoring.site/s/jesus-and-jetlag

Common Terms and Links on Jesus and Jetlag

* WELS = Wisconsin Evangelical Lutheran Synod (wels.net)

* WLS = Wisconsin Lutheran Seminary in Mequon Wisconsin (wisluthsem.org)

* Collection of Confessional Lutheran Essays

* BWM = WELS Board for World Missions

* CELC = Confessional Evangelical Lutheran Conference

* CICR = Commission on Inter-Church Relations of the Wisconsin Evangelical Lutheran Synod

* Vicar = a pastoral intern in the Wisconsin Evangelical Lutheran system

* Wisconsin Lutheran Quarterly (WLQ) - A theological journal, published by Wisconsin Lutheran Seminary, that aims to serve pastors and theologians with scholarly articles, book reviews, and reflections on contemporary theological and pastoral concerns.

* Pastoral Studies Institute of Wisconsin Lutheran Seminary

* Asia Lutheran Seminary

All commentary, statements, and discussion on this podcast reflect the knowledge, insight, and experience solely of the individuals presenting and featured on the podcast.

In this episode of Jesus and Jetlag, hosts Mike Hartman and Matthew Doebler interview each other, diving into the ambitious yet humbling call to plant a church body rather than a single congregation. They share their experiences as missionaries in Australia and the UK, reflecting on how their calls encompass entire countries, similar to early missionaries called to whole continents like South America.

Key discussion points include:

* Broadening the Scope of Ministry: Mike and Matt emphasize that their mission is to bring the Gospel to regions, not just individual communities. They discuss the challenges of reaching millions of people in places like Mexico City and China, highlighting the impossibility of one person doing it all.

* The Importance of Multiplication (PARB): The conversation centers on building capacity for Gospel ministry expansion through multiplication. Matthew introduces the PARB framework:

* P - Partners: Making witnesses and disciplers, not just converts and disciples.

* A - Apprentices: Raising up new leaders through an apprenticeship model.

* R - Repeats: Developing simple, repeatable methods for sharing the Gospel, citing Martin Luther's catechism as a historical example of this principle.

* B - Broadens: Constantly thinking broader than immediate communities to reach more people through various means.

* Balancing Depth and Breadth: Mike and Matt explore the tension between deep, thorough training and broad, rapid evangelism. They advocate for a balanced approach that ensures the Gospel message remains clear and unchanged over time while still reaching as many people as possible.

* Leveraging Modern Communication: Mike shares how he uses platforms like YouTube and TikTok to connect with people and generate interest in the Bible in the UK, adapting communication methods to reach a wider audience. Matthew also discusses using English classes to connect with immigrant populations in Australia.

* Encouragement for Missionaries: The episode concludes with powerful encouragements, reminding listeners that ministry will have struggles, it's God's church not ours, and it's okay to make mistakes and learn from them. They differentiate between "lead measures" (controllable actions) and "lag measures" (results that are God's work), advocating for missionaries to "work hard and rest well".

Listen in as Mike and Matt offer practical insights and theological reflections on the joys and challenges of global Gospel ministry.

Relevant Links:

* Mike’s YouTube Channel “Discover Hidden Gems”

* The new church body Mike is helping to form in the U.K.

Common Terms and Links on Jesus and Jetlag

* WELS = Wisconsin Evangelical Lutheran Synod (wels.net)

* WLS = Wisconsin Lutheran Seminary in Mequon Wisconsin (wisluthsem.org)

* Collection of Confessional Lutheran Essays

* BWM = WELS Board for World Missions

* CELC = Confessional Evangelical Lutheran Conference

* CICR = Commission on Inter-Church Relations of the Wisconsin Evangelical Lutheran Synod

* Vicar = a pastoral intern in the Wisconsin Evangelical Lutheran system

* Wisconsin Lutheran Quarterly (WLQ) - A theological journal, published by Wisconsin Lutheran Seminary, that aims to serve pastors and theologians with scholarly articles, book reviews, and reflections on contemporary theological and pastoral concerns.

* Pastoral Studies Institute of Wisconsin Lutheran Seminary

* Asia Lutheran Seminary

All commentary, statements, and discussion on this podcast reflect the knowledge, insight, and experience solely of the individuals presenting and featured on the podcast.

What is the role of theological education on the mission field? Is there a tension between the "academic" work of a theological educator and the "practical" work of a missionary?

In this episode, we are joined by Jon Bare, president of Asia Lutheran Seminary, who shares his extensive experience in global theological education. Jon helps us see that the perceived tension between scholarship and missions is often a false dichotomy. He walks us through the history of theological training, from the relational, mentoring model we see in Scripture to the more structured, academic model common today.

Join us as we explore how to blend the best of both worlds. Learn how today's missionaries, as theological educators, can follow the example of Jesus—the ultimate theological educator—by focusing on a relational approach that equips national partners to not only know the Word, but to be shepherds and do the work of "fishers of men" in their own cultural contexts.

Key Takeaways from Our Conversation:

* The goal of theological education is not just to impart knowledge, but to form the whole person—their character, their skills, and their heart for the mission. We can think of this as the "know, be, and do" of ministry preparation.

* Throughout Scripture, from Moses and Joshua to Elijah and Elisha, and most importantly with Jesus and His disciples, theological training was fundamentally relational. This involved close mentorship, modeling, and walking together in ministry.

* Jesus turned the educational model of His day on its head. Instead of disciples choosing their teacher, He chose them, calling them into a deep, personal relationship with the goal of making them "fishers of men."

* The term "seminary" originates from the Latin word for "seedbed" (seminarium). It was conceived as a place to perpetually grow and provide trained pastors for the church's local needs.

* A missionary's role as an educator is not to simply "copy and paste" their own training. It involves listening, learning from the local culture, and working together with national partners to apply the unchanging truths of Scripture in their own context.

* To keep theological education focused on the mission, it must remain deeply connected to the life of the church. Training should happen within the context of the church's mission, not separate from it, with students serving and applying their learning from the very beginning.

* To the new missionary preparing to train workers: Be a pastor to your students. Your primary role is to shepherd the people God has placed under your care, preparing them to be shepherds in their own contexts.

Materials Referenced:

* Essay: “Prepared to Serve? Assessment of Seminary Students’ Preparation for Ministry” by Jon Bare (available for download here)

* Thesis: “The Student-Faculty Relationship among Male MDiv Students” by Jon Bare (available for download here)

* Essay: Jesus, the Theological Educator by Keith Ferdinando

* Article: The Role of Theological Education in the Missionary Task by Matthew Hirt

Common Terms and Links on Jesus and Jetlag

* WELS = Wisconsin Evangelical Lutheran Synod (wels.net)

* WLS = Wisconsin Lutheran Seminary in Mequon Wisconsin (wisluthsem.org)

* Collection of Confessional Lutheran Essays

* BWM = WELS Board for World Missions

* CELC = Confessional Evangelical Lutheran Conference

* CICR = Commission on Inter-Church Relations of the Wisconsin Evangelical Lutheran Synod

* Vicar = a pastoral intern in the Wisconsin Evangelical Lutheran system

* Wisconsin Lutheran Quarterly (WLQ) - A theological journal, published by Wisconsin Lutheran Seminary, that aims to serve pastors and theologians with scholarly articles, book reviews, and reflections on contemporary theological and pastoral concerns.

* Pastoral Studies Institute of Wisconsin Lutheran Seminary

* Asia Lutheran Seminary

All commentary, statements, and discussion on this podcast reflect the knowledge, insight, and experience solely of the individuals presenting and featured on the podcast.

In this episode of Jesus and Jetlag, Mike and Matt host a fascinating four-continent conversation with Matt Behmer and Guy Marquardt about the profound meaning of fellowship (Koinonia) and the practicalities of hospitality in international mission work. They delve into how cultural differences impact ministry, the challenges of fostering mutual relationships in global partnerships, and the powerful role of digital communication in maintaining connections.

In This Episode:

* Defining Parakaletic Koinonia: Guy Marquardt explains his dissertation concept of "parakaletic koinonia," emphasizing the Holy Spirit's active role in gathering believers for mutual transformation through shared Gospel. He highlights the importance of balancing doctrinal truth with relational love in Christian fellowship.

* Cultural Nuances of Hospitality: Matt Behmer shares insights on how hospitality differs across cultures, drawing from his experiences in Latin America compared to Asia, and offers advice on approaching new cultural contexts with humility. Guy adds a personal anecdote about "reverse culture shock" related to social cues in Brazil versus the U.S..

* Building Mutual Partnerships: The discussion explores the challenges of unequal partnerships in missions and the importance of fostering truly mutual relationships where everyone stands "at the feet of Jesus" as co-workers. Matt Behmer describes how the Academia Cristo ministry exemplifies people from diverse backgrounds working together, offering a "glimpse of heaven".

* Maintaining Connection Despite Distance: The guests discuss how missionaries can sustain meaningful koinonia and partnerships when physical presence isn't possible. Matt Behmer highlights the use of digital hospitality and the deepened trust built through occasional in-person visits. Guy Marquardt draws parallels to the Apostle Paul's use of letters to maintain connections and encouragement despite being physically separated.

* Overcoming Obstacles to Hospitality: Matt Behmer addresses modern cultural barriers to hospitality, noting its historical significance in the church and its potential as a counter-cultural force for evangelism.

* Genuine vs. Counterfeit Hospitality: The conversation emphasizes the importance of genuine hospitality, motivated by God's own hospitality to us, rather than a "bait and switch" strategy for evangelism. They stress that hospitality should be a way of life, sustained at a healthy pace.

* Prioritizing Fellowship with God: The episode concludes by highlighting that a strong relationship with Christ, who is the ultimate host, empowers believers to extend genuine hospitality and fosters deeper relationships with others.

Materials Referenced

* “Hospitality for Church Planting in Latin America: Mission, Leadership, and Development in the Context of Global Christianity” by Matt Behmer

* Paper by Dr. Guy Marquardt

* Thesis? by Dr. Guy Marquardt

Common Terms and Links on Jesus and Jetlag

* WELS = Wisconsin Evangelical Lutheran Synod (wels.net)

* WLS = Wisconsin Lutheran Seminary in Mequon Wisconsin (wisluthsem.org)

* Collection of Confessional Lutheran Essays

* BWM = WELS Board for World Missions

* CELC = Confessional Evangelical Lutheran Conference

* CICR = Commission on Inter-Church Relations of the Wisconsin Evangelical Lutheran Synod

* Vicar = a pastoral intern in the Wisconsin Evangelical Lutheran system

* Wisconsin Lutheran Quarterly (WLQ) - A theological journal, published by Wisconsin Lutheran Seminary, that aims to serve pastors and theologians with scholarly articles, book reviews, and reflections on contemporary theological and pastoral concerns.

* Pastoral Studies Institute of Wisconsin Lutheran Seminary

* Asia Lutheran Seminary

All commentary, statements, and discussion on this podcast reflect the knowledge, insight, and experience solely of the individuals presenting and featured on the podcast.

What is the right missionary attitude? How does a missionary move from a place of unintentional superiority to one of genuine, humble servanthood? In this episode, Mike and Matt are joined by Pastor Rob Siirila, who shares wisdom gathered from 36 years of missionary service in Taiwan and Hong Kong.

Pastor Siirila delves into the essential posture of a cross-cultural witness, exploring how to overcome the pitfalls of ethnocentrism by developing a learner's mindset. Using memorable analogies like "the monkey and the fish" and the concept of "robe and towel ministry," he provides a framework for building trust and understanding in a new culture.

The conversation then shifts to a crucial theological topic: the "3D Gospel." Pastor Siirila explains the three major cultural worldviews—Guilt/Innocence, Shame/Honor, and Fear/Power—and illustrates how the one true Gospel speaks powerfully to each of them. This episode offers invaluable, practical insights for anyone seeking to share the good news of Jesus in a way that truly connects with the heart-level needs of people in any culture.

In this episode, you'll learn about:

* The Missionary Mindset: The challenge of a superiority complex, which can disguise itself as a virtue, and the importance of cultivating curiosity and a learner's heart.

* Robe and Towel Ministry: Understanding the balance between the authority of a teacher (the robe) and the humility of a servant (the towel), following the example of Jesus.

* The Monkey and the Fish: A powerful analogy illustrating the danger of offering well-meaning help based on one's own cultural assumptions rather than understanding the true needs of others.

* A Model for Learning: A three-stage approach to cultural immersion: learning about a culture, learning from its people, and ultimately, learning with them as partners on a shared mission.

* The Servanthood Process: Six key steps to building Christ-like relationships: openness, acceptance, trust, learning, understanding, and serving.

* The 3D Gospel: An exploration of the three primary cultural worldviews and how they perceive sin and salvation:

* Guilt-Innocence: Focused on law, transgression, and forgiveness.

* Shame-Honor: Centered on community, dishonor, and the restoration of face.

* Fear-Power: Concerned with spiritual forces, curses, and accessing divine power for protection and freedom.

* The Prodigal Son in Asia: Hearing the famous parable through a shame-honor lens, which reveals deep cultural insights and highlights the Father's gracious restoration of honor.

* Failing Forward: Encouragement for new missionaries to embrace the learning process, even if it means making mistakes—like accidentally calling Jesus a pig in another language!

Mentioned in this episode:

* Book: The 3D Gospel by Jason Georges

* Book: Leading Cross-Culturally by Sherwood G. Lingenfelter

* Book: Cross-Cultural Connections: Stepping Out and Fitting In Around the World by Duane Elmer

Common Terms and Links on Jesus and Jetlag

* WELS = Wisconsin Evangelical Lutheran Synod (wels.net)

* WLS = Wisconsin Lutheran Seminary in Mequon Wisconsin (wisluthsem.org)

* Collection of Confessional Lutheran Essays

* BWM = WELS Board for World Missions

* CELC = Confessional Evangelical Lutheran Conference

* CICR = Commission on Inter-Church Relations of the Wisconsin Evangelical Lutheran Synod

* Vicar = a pastoral intern in the Wisconsin Evangelical Lutheran system

* Wisconsin Lutheran Quarterly (WLQ) - A theological journal, published by Wisconsin Lutheran Seminary, that aims to serve pastors and theologians with scholarly articles, book reviews, and reflections on contemporary theological and pastoral concerns.

* Pastoral Studies Institute of Wisconsin Lutheran Seminary

* Asia Lutheran Seminary

All commentary, statements, and discussion on this podcast reflect the knowledge, insight, and experience solely of the individuals presenting and featured on the podcast.

Is there a place for the long, slow work of relationship-building in modern missions? When we're eager to share the good news, the process of simply having coffee, sharing meals, or taking long walks can feel unproductive. But what if these activities are the essential "rock picking" and "soil tilling" that prepare hearts for the gospel?

In this episode, we are joined by Aaron Wakeman, Executive Director of Friends Network, an organization that sends laypeople as missionaries around the world. Drawing from his extensive experience in China and in training missionaries, Aaron unpacks the vital importance of "relational evangelism."

Join us as we discuss biblical examples of friendship in ministry, the danger of underestimating trust-building across cultures, and practical strategies for moving from acquaintance to authentic friendship. Learn how to view the gospel as a "multi-dimensional diamond" and how to recognize your God-given role as a "de facto chaplain" in the lives of those around you. This conversation is a powerful reminder that the most meaningful ministry often happens not in a formal presentation, but through the patient, loving investment in one person at a time.

What we talked about:

* Biblical Foundations for Relational Missions: Aaron and the hosts explore passages that highlight the deep, personal connections of the apostles, including Paul's bond with the Thessalonians, his partnership with Priscilla and Aquila, and the ultimate blessing of Jesus dwelling among us.

* The Gospel as a Multi-Dimensional Diamond: Aaron introduces the concept of the gospel having many facets—like identity, peace, and honor—that can be turned to speak directly to an individual's specific needs and cultural convictions. He tells the story of how framing the gospel in terms of a father's unconditional love and acceptance powerfully connected with a young woman struggling with parental expectations.

* The Farming Metaphor for Ministry: The group discusses how mission work is like farming, involving various legitimate and necessary stages like "rock picking" and "tilling the soil" before a visible harvest. This metaphor affirms the value of long-term, slow, relational work that may not show immediate results. It's estimated that a person may have an average of 30 "touch points" with the gospel before coming to faith.

* Building Trust Across Cultures: Trust is not built the same way everywhere. While Americans often build trust based on cognitive factors ("head"), most of the world builds it through relationship and affective factors ("heart"). This is illustrated by the story of a missionary in China who learned he needed to spend "smoky time" building relationships before he could be effective in his theological training.

* Becoming a "De Facto Chaplain": With global trust in institutions eroding, 60% of people are more likely to trust close friends and family with spiritual issues than institutional representatives like pastors. This creates opportunities for Christians to become a "de facto chaplain" for people in their lives, who entrust them with significant spiritual matters because of the relationship that has been built.

* A Three-Part Method for Evangelism: Aaron shares the strategy his organization teaches: 1. Meaningfully engage in your culture and community, 2. Establish authentic friendships, and 3. Share the gospel wherever God provides an opportunity. He tells the story of a missionary in the Philippines whose commitment to simple, daily engagement with his community led to a crisis intervention and gospel conversation with a local butcher.

* Merging Universes and Plausibility Structures: Drawing on Sam Chan's work, Aaron explains the importance of community in evangelism. Introducing a seeker to a community of local believers makes the Christian faith more plausible (aside from the inherent offense of the gospel), helping them overcome the social and cultural hurdles to conversion. This creates a safe environment for the often messy, non-linear process of a spiritual journey.

Mentioned in this episode:

* Book: The Culture Map by Erin Meyer

* Book: The 3D Gospel by Jason Georges

* Resource: The 3D Gospel video on YouTube

* Book: How to Talk About Jesus (Without Being That Guy) by Sam Chan

* Organization: Friends Network

* Organization: The Lausanne Movement

Common Terms and Links on Jesus and Jetlag

* WELS = Wisconsin Evangelical Lutheran Synod (wels.net)

* WLS = Wisconsin Lutheran Seminary in Mequon Wisconsin (wisluthsem.org)

* Collection of Confessional Lutheran Essays

* BWM = WELS Board for World Missions

* CELC = Confessional Evangelical Lutheran Conference

* CICR = Commission on Inter-Church Relations of the Wisconsin Evangelical Lutheran Synod

* Vicar = a pastoral intern in the Wisconsin Evangelical Lutheran system

* Wisconsin Lutheran Quarterly (WLQ) - A theological journal, published by Wisconsin Lutheran Seminary, that aims to serve pastors and theologians with scholarly articles, book reviews, and reflections on contemporary theological and pastoral concerns.

* Pastoral Studies Institute of Wisconsin Lutheran Seminary

* Asia Lutheran Seminary

All commentary, statements, and discussion on this podcast reflect the knowledge, insight, and experience solely of the individuals presenting and featured on the podcast.

In this episode, we sit down with Paul Wendland, former president of Wisconsin Lutheran Seminary, to discuss the profound value of the gospel message and how a deep understanding of core Christian teachings can equip leaders for effective cross-cultural ministry. Paul shares insights from his diverse ministry experiences, from Africa to Salt Lake City, illustrating the challenges and blessings of sharing faith across different cultural contexts.

Key Takeaways:

* The Unconditional Gospel (Objective Justification): Paul explains the concept that forgiveness is a free gift from God, already accomplished through Christ for everyone, regardless of their response. This understanding fuels mission work because it's a message of pure grace for all people.

* Theology of the Cross: This teaching helps find God amidst suffering and apparent failure. For missionaries, it means finding validation not in visible success but in God's presence and promises, even during times of loneliness, struggle, or perceived lack of results. It acknowledges that suffering is often part of following Christ, confirming rather than denying one's calling.

* The Three Solas:

* Scripture Alone (Sola Scriptura): The Bible is the ultimate authority for faith and life, standing above human tradition or philosophy. It guides believers to let Scripture shape their questions and answers, rather than imposing cultural assumptions onto the text.

* Grace Alone (Sola Gratia): Reinforces the unconditional nature of God's favor.

* Faith Alone (Sola Fide): Salvation is received simply by trusting God's promises, not through human effort, merit, or works.

* Understanding Culture in Ministry:

* Human Commonality: All people share fundamental traits, like a natural knowledge of God and a moral sense, which provides a basis for communication.

* Human Culture: Groups share specific customs, beliefs, and ways of seeing the world (tribal truths). Missionaries must learn to understand these cultural specifics sympathetically.

* Human Individuality: Avoid stereotyping; listen to individuals to understand their unique perspectives rather than relying solely on generalized cultural knowledge.

* Culture's Role: While culture doesn't affect one's standing "in Christ", it matters greatly in communicating Christ. Effective ministry involves adapting communication methods to the specific cultural context without compromising the core message, often best done in partnership with local leaders.

* Advice for New Missionaries:

* Prioritize personal and family devotional life.

* Build fellowship with colleagues (both expatriate and national); avoid isolation.

* Be prepared for culture shock and trust God through it.

* Cultivate curiosity and a spirit of adventure.

* Accept that you may never fully "fit in," and see the value in a cross-cultural perspective.

Resources & Readings Mentioned:

* The Apostle Paul and Culture essay by Paul Wendland

* Various related essays by Paul Wendland (download here)

* Through Gates of Splendor by Elisabeth Elliot

* On the Freedom of a Christian by Martin Luther

Common Terms and Links on Jesus and Jetlag

* WELS = Wisconsin Evangelical Lutheran Synod (wels.net)

* WLS = Wisconsin Lutheran Seminary in Mequon Wisconsin (wisluthsem.org)

* Collection of Confessional Lutheran Essays

* BWM = WELS Board for World Missions

* CELC = Confessional Evangelical Lutheran Conference

* CICR = Commission on Inter-Church Relations of the Wisconsin Evangelical Lutheran Synod

* Vicar = a pastoral intern in the Wisconsin Evangelical Lutheran system

* Wisconsin Lutheran Quarterly (WLQ) - A theological journal, published by Wisconsin Lutheran Seminary, that aims to serve pastors and theologians with scholarly articles, book reviews, and reflections on contemporary theological and pastoral concerns.

* Pastoral Studies Institute of Wisconsin Lutheran Seminary

* Asia Lutheran Seminary

All commentary, statements, and discussion on this podcast reflect the knowledge, insight, and experience solely of the individuals presenting and featured on the podcast.

In this episode, Mike Hartman and Matthew Doebler welcome Pastor Asher William, who leads a church in South Asia. Pastor Asher shares his incredible journey and insights into gospel-centered missiology.

Key Discussion Points:

* Asher William's Background: Pastor Asher shares how his admiration for Martin Luther led him to connect with Cross Life Church in America and how he connected with Crosslife Church during the COVID-19 pandemic and found a spiritual home that aligned with his Lutheran beliefs.

* Multiplication Formula for Training Believers: Pastor Asher explains his "multiplication formula" for training new believers to become gospel witnesses, emphasizing Second Timothy 2:2. He elaborates on his eight-point study booklet and the use of the Lutheran catechism for foundational teaching.

* Key Principles for Evangelism: The discussion highlights four essential elements for effective gospel sharing: a bigger vision, more burden, a clear strategy, and long-term commitment.

* Apprenticeship and On-the-Ground Training: Pastor Asher describes how he takes new leaders and believers into the field to experience ministry firsthand, demonstrating the power of the gospel to bring people to Christ. He stresses simplifying gospel-sharing in daily life and trusting God with the results.

* Ministering to an Unreached Tribe: Discover the challenges and blessings of sharing the gospel with a tribe that had never heard it before. Pastor Asher shares how learning their language, understanding their culture, and using music and Bible memorization have been crucial.

* The Role of Women in Ministry: Pastor Asher emphasizes the vital role of women, like his wife Lubna, in reaching women within conservative cultures where male missionaries cannot.

* UAE Ministry and Expanding Reach: The episode touches on the unexpected expansion of their ministry into the UAE, initiated by trained church members who relocated.

* National TV Opportunity: Pastor Asher recounts a surprising opportunity to share the gospel on national television during a Christmas lunch with high-ranking police officers, highlighting God's open doors.

* Advice for New Missionaries: Pastor Asher advises organizations and new missionaries to prioritize training local missionaries and building strong foundations on teaching rather than solely on funding. He stresses the importance of being prepared for both planned and unplanned mission opportunities, seeing every believer as a tool for God's work.

* Theology of Mission: The conversation concludes with a reflection on the seminary's role in teaching a clear theology of mission, emphasizing that while salvation is God's work, believers are called to be active partners in sharing the gospel.

Common Terms and Links on Jesus and Jetlag

* WELS = Wisconsin Evangelical Lutheran Synod (wels.net)

* WLS = Wisconsin Lutheran Seminary in Mequon Wisconsin (wisluthsem.org)

* Collection of Confessional Lutheran Essays

* BWM = WELS Board for World Missions

* CELC = Confessional Evangelical Lutheran Conference

* CICR = Commission on Inter-Church Relations of the Wisconsin Evangelical Lutheran Synod

* Vicar = a pastoral intern in the Wisconsin Evangelical Lutheran system

* Wisconsin Lutheran Quarterly (WLQ) - A theological journal, published by Wisconsin Lutheran Seminary, that aims to serve pastors and theologians with scholarly articles, book reviews, and reflections on contemporary theological and pastoral concerns.

* Pastoral Studies Institute of Wisconsin Lutheran Seminary

* Asia Lutheran Seminary

All commentary, statements, and discussion on this podcast reflect the knowledge, insight, and experience solely of the individuals presenting and featured on the podcast.

Episode 15 of Jesus and Jetlag features Bill Meier, President and CEO of Kingdom Workers, a global Christian non-profit organization. This episode delves into the concept of holistic gospel ministry, emphasizing the integration of gospel proclamation and compassionate service.

Key Discussion Points:

* Holistic Gospel Ministry: Bill Meier advocates for a unified approach to ministry, where acts of kindness and compassion are intertwined with spoken gospel proclamation. He stresses that both aspects are essential and originate from the same divine source.

* The "Social Gospel" vs. "Evangelical Gnosticism": The conversation addresses the historical tension between emphasizing social ministry and the fear of diluting the gospel message. Meier explains that while acts of kindness are commanded and celebrated, they do not replace the verbal proclamation of the saving Word. He also critiques the idea that helping others is only a "bridge to the gospel," arguing that the primary motivation for helping should be the need itself.

* Strategic Outreach and Local Operating Systems: Meier highlights the importance of strategic thinking in ministry, adapting outreach methods to the specific needs and context of a community. He encourages understanding and leveraging "local operating systems" – the cultural systems people use to communicate, collaborate, and execute plans.

* The "Peak" of Ministry: Instead of viewing the balance between proclamation and compassion as a "middle ground," Meier describes it as a "peak" where both sharing Jesus' identity and helping those in need are constantly and unabashedly pursued.

* Real-World Examples: Bill Meier shares powerful anecdotes from his experiences in Zambia, Malawi, and Indonesia, illustrating the impact of integrated ministry, particularly in serving people with disabilities. He recounts stories of churches transformed by serving their communities and the long-term relationships required for sustainable ministry.

Resources Mentioned:

* Cultivating a Culture of Compassion essay by Pastor Ryan Kolander

* Christian Compassion throughout the Centuries essay by Dr. Glen Thompson

* See How They Love One Another! The Ministry of Compassion in Scripture and Early Christianity to 300 AD. esssay by Dr. Keith Wessel

* Mercy Booklet Series from the Confessional Lutheran Church Missouri Synod

* The 3D Gospel by Jayson Georges

* When Helping Hurts by Steve Corbett and Brian Fikkert

* The Meros Center website - A Research and Training Center for Christian Health Ministry

Common Terms and Links on Jesus and Jetlag

* WELS = Wisconsin Evangelical Lutheran Synod (wels.net)

* WLS = Wisconsin Lutheran Seminary in Mequon Wisconsin (wisluthsem.org)

* Collection of Confessional Lutheran Essays

* BWM = WELS Board for World Missions

* CELC = Confessional Evangelical Lutheran Conference

* CICR = Commission on Inter-Church Relations of the Wisconsin Evangelical Lutheran Synod

* Vicar = a pastoral intern in the Wisconsin Evangelical Lutheran system

* Wisconsin Lutheran Quarterly (WLQ) - A theological journal, published by Wisconsin Lutheran Seminary, that aims to serve pastors and theologians with scholarly articles, book reviews, and reflections on contemporary theological and pastoral concerns.

* Pastoral Studies Institute of Wisconsin Lutheran Seminary

* Asia Lutheran Seminary

All commentary, statements, and discussion on this podcast reflect the knowledge, insight, and experience solely of the individuals presenting and featured on the podcast.

Jon Gross, a producer for Multi-Language Productions focusing on Latin America, joins us to discuss the evolving landscape of digital outreach. From his beginnings learning video production in Chile to implementing AI tools, Jon shares insights on using technology effectively to share the gospel and support ministry work globally.

Key Takeaways

* Academia Cristo: Jon explains how Academia Cristo uses online resources and social media to reach millions weekly in Latin America, training local leaders to start and lead church groups in their own communities.

* Social Media Outreach Trends:

* The expectation for high-quality video content in online advertising has increased significantly, even in regions like Latin America.

* Facebook remains a primary platform for ads, while Google Ads (including YouTube) offers different ways to reach people actively searching for information.

* Consistent Messaging: Maintaining a clear, consistent brand identity (style, message, frequency) across platforms helps people recognize and connect with your ministry.

* Targeted Advertising: Platforms like Facebook and Google allow for specific targeting based on demographics (age, location, gender) and interests, but defining your target audience and purpose clearly is crucial for effective campaigns. Consulting marketing professionals can save time and resources.

* AI in Ministry:

* AI tools like Chat GPT can significantly save time on administrative tasks (e.g., writing emails, summarizing data, brainstorming sermon themes/parts), freeing up time for personal interaction and core ministry work.

* AI is a tool controlled by the user; it doesn't replace the human element, pastoral care, or theological discernment. Users must guide it and evaluate its output.

* Learning to write effective prompts is key to getting useful results from AI. Customizing AI tools (like building a personal GPT) can make them even more effective.

* AI can enhance, rather than hinder, creativity by handling tedious tasks or offering new perspectives.

* Respond.io: This platform allows for automated messaging workflows via WhatsApp, Facebook Messenger, etc. Academia Cristo uses it to guide new contacts through introductory courses before connecting them to live classes, replacing a more expensive custom app. It can also be used to gather information about people's beliefs and questions before they attend an in-person class.

* Advice for New Missionaries: Prioritize immersing yourself in the local culture – learn by walking, talking, and meeting people in person before implementing technological solutions. Understand the community's needs first to define your ministry purpose. Technology is a tool to support the mission, not replace relational ministry.

Resources & Readings Mentioned

* Organizations/Platforms:

* Academia Cristo

* Multi-Language Productions

* Books:

* Writing on the Wall: Social Media - The First 2,000 Years by Tom Standage

* Brand Luther by Andrew Pettegree

* Growth Hacker Marketing by Ryan Holiday

* Building a StoryBrand by Donald Miller

* Tools:

* Facebook Ads

* Google Ads

* Chat GPT

* Respond.io

Common Terms and Links on Jesus and Jetlag

* WELS = Wisconsin Evangelical Lutheran Synod (wels.net)

* WLS = Wisconsin Lutheran Seminary in Mequon Wisconsin (wisluthsem.org)

* Collection of Confessional Lutheran Essays

* BWM = WELS Board for World Missions

* CELC = Confessional Evangelical Lutheran Conference

* CICR = Commission on Inter-Church Relations of the Wisconsin Evangelical Lutheran Synod

* Vicar = a pastoral intern in the Wisconsin Evangelical Lutheran system

* Wisconsin Lutheran Quarterly (WLQ) - A theological journal, published by Wisconsin Lutheran Seminary, that aims to serve pastors and theologians with scholarly articles, book reviews, and reflections on contemporary theological and pastoral concerns.

* Pastoral Studies Institute of Wisconsin Lutheran Seminary

* Asia Lutheran Seminary

All commentary, statements, and discussion on this podcast reflect the knowledge, insight, and experience solely of the individuals presenting and featured on the podcast.