Ministry Deep Dive

Ever wondered why people in the U.S. once they hear you are a follower of Jesus simply tune you out? Or if you talk about Jesus, they say, "Been there. Done that." Why is it that people in majority world cultures are responding so differently to the Gospel? Can anything be done about it?

Join Travis as he talks with Mike Goheen. Mike is a missiologist-a person who studies to see how the mission of Christ is fulfilled in a given culture. And he sits down with Travis as the two discuss Mike's background and how our culture got to where it is today and his hope for the church going forward. This is one of the deepest conversations on Apollos Watered. Some are scuba deep, but this one may be Mariana Trench Deep, we will leave that up to you to decide. Whatever the case, listen in and drink what you can because it will help you to understand your world so that you can water it better.

Learn more about Mike and the Missional Training Center and check out his books.

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What is happening with Apollos Watered?! Some incredible stuff that can help you water your world! Who do you want to hear from? What do you want us to talk about? What is a resource that can help in your walk with God? And is there a way to get some of those resources at a discounted price? Yes!

Travis & Kevin, the original tag team duo crazy enough to do this thing, sit down to discuss all that God has done over the past year and what we have planned in the year ahead to help you so that you can water your world. Listen in and hear about our journey, how God brought it into existence, what we value, where we are headed, and how you can be part of it!

We have big news! The New Living Translation is now the official translation of Apollos Watered! Check out Kevin's article Understanding the Bible Changes Everything. This is an exciting partnership that is meant to help you grow to become more like Jesus!

As always, thanks for listening! You are our heroes! Please keep the hero thing going by giving us a great review and be sure to share it with others!

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Join Travis for the second part of his Deep Conversation with Audrey Frank. Travis and Audrey discuss shame and the shame bearers in Muslim society...women. What does that mean? What does it mean to the women of Afghanistan in light of recent events? What does our modern cancel culture have to do with ancient concepts of shame? Everything! Listen in and discover shame, shame bearers, and the One who takes our shame away.

Check out the first part:

#64 | Finding Hope, Shedding Shame, Pt. 1 | Audrey Frank

Learn more about shame:

#34 | Rediscovering Hospitality: A Lesson from Eastern Cultures | Jayson Georges

#69 | The Insanity of God, Pt. 1 | Nik Ripken

#70 | The Insanity of God, Pt. 2 | Nik Ripken

#71 | The Insanity of God, Pt. 3 | Nik Ripken

#112 | Truth, Trauma, and Transformation, Pt. 1 | Jami Staples

#113 | Truth, Trauma, and Transformation, Pt. 2 | Jami Staples

#117 | Defending Shame, Pt. 1 | Te-Li Lau

#118 | Defending Shame, Pt. 2 | Te-Li Lau

Be sure to check her out and get her book, Covered Glory.

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The dialogue between Travis Michael Fleming and Audrey Frank delves into the profound and often underexplored concepts of honor and shame, particularly as they pertain to contemporary culture, including the pervasive phenomenon of cancel culture. Throughout their discussion, they illuminate how these ancient constructs are not merely relics of the past but are intricately woven into the fabric of modern societal interactions and expectations. The conversation reveals that while we may perceive shame as an archaic notion, its manifestations are prevalent in today’s world, influencing behaviors, relationships, and even the very discourse surrounding faith and identity.

Audrey Frank articulates compelling narratives, drawing from her experiences and observations within various cultural contexts, particularly the honor-shame dynamics prevalent in many societies globally. She challenges the Western-centric view that often regards shame as solely negative, by emphasizing that it can serve as a mechanism for accountability and moral reflection. The interview further posits that understanding these cultural frameworks can enhance our comprehension of the Gospel message, particularly in its capacity to offer redemption and restore dignity to those burdened by shame. This thematic exploration not only resonates with individuals from honor-shame backgrounds but also invites listeners to reflect on their own cultural narratives and the ways in which they may inadvertently perpetuate cycles of shame in their communities.

Moreover, the conversation underscores the importance of recognizing the spiritual implications of shame and honor within the context of Christian faith. Travis and Audrey assert that the Gospel speaks profoundly to these issues, presenting Jesus as the ultimate redeemer who transforms shame into honor. This exploration serves as a clarion call for believers to engage meaningfully with those who may feel marginalized or shamed, advocating for an understanding that transcends mere doctrinal discussions, and instead fosters genuine empathy and connection. In summary, this episode serves as a rich tapestry of insights that challenge listeners to reevaluate their perspectives on shame and honor in a world that increasingly grapples with these timeless themes.

Takeaways:

• The ancient concept of shame significantly influences modern societal issues, including cancel culture, which is discussed extensively in the podcast.
• Travis Michael Fleming and Audrey Frank delve into the dynamics of honor and shame across various cultures, highlighting its relevance beyond just Islamic contexts.
• The conversation emphasizes that understanding the intersection of faith and cultural dynamics is crucial for effective discipleship in today's world.
• Audrey shares poignant stories from her experiences that illustrate how Christ can transform the notion of shame into honor for individuals from diverse backgrounds.
• The podcast argues that the principles of honor and shame are inherently present in many cultures, urging listeners to reconsider their perspectives on these concepts.
• Listeners are encouraged to engage with the Bible through the lens of honor and shame to better understand its implications for their faith and relationships.

Join Travis as he has a deep conversation w/true storyteller Audrey Frank. She is a daughter of God, wife, mother, friend, poet, and true storyteller. She is a voice giver to those who have been silenced by shame. She is a storyteller guide who leads us through the art gallery of God's grace decorated with God’s great masterpieces—created in the lives of people around the world who have been given honor instead of shame, gladness instead of mourning, and hope instead of despair.

Audrey has a degree in intercultural studies and theology and more than 25 years of experience living among different world views, but her greatest credential is that her picture hangs in His gallery, streaked with the contrasts of deepest darks and brightest lights. This is a conversation of heart, laughter, conviction, and above all, true and lasting hope for all who listen.

Check out the second part:

#65 | Finding Hope, Shedding Shame, Pt. 1 | Audrey Frank

Learn more about shame:

#34 | Rediscovering Hospitality: A Lesson from Eastern Cultures | Jayson Georges

#69 | The Insanity of God, Pt. 1 | Nik Ripken

#70 | The Insanity of God, Pt. 2 | Nik Ripken

#71 | The Insanity of God, Pt. 3 | Nik Ripken

#112 | Truth, Trauma, and Transformation, Pt. 1 | Jami Staples

#113 | Truth, Trauma, and Transformation, Pt. 2 | Jami Staples

#117 | Defending Shame, Pt. 1 | Te-Li Lau

#118 | Defending Shame, Pt. 2 | Te-Li Lau

Learn more about her.

You can purchase her book, Covered Glory.

Learn more about the Truth Collective.

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Help support the ministry of Apollos Watered and transform your world today!

The discourse between Travis Michael Fleming and Audrey Frank embarks upon a profound exploration of the nuanced distinctions between guilt and shame, pivotal themes that resonate deeply within the human experience. As they delve into the essence of these emotions, Audrey, a seasoned expert in the realms of honor and shame, elucidates how these feelings manifest differently across various cultures, particularly within collectivist societies. She argues that guilt is often perceived as a behavioral issue, one that can be addressed through actions and reparations, while shame is an identity crisis, where the individual internalizes a sense of worthlessness. This dichotomy is critical for understanding not only personal struggles but also the broader societal implications these emotions have in shaping human interactions and relationships.

The conversation further illuminates the practical implications of these concepts, particularly in the context of Christian faith. Audrey emphasizes the significance of recognizing one’s identity in Christ, which transcends the debilitating effects of shame. Through compelling anecdotes and her own life experiences, she demonstrates how the transformative power of the Gospel offers a path to redemption and honor, challenging listeners to reconsider their perceptions of worth and dignity. The episode serves as a clarion call for individuals to seek liberation from the chains of shame, fostering a deeper understanding of their intrinsic value as beloved creations of God.

In the latter part of the discussion, the duo touches on the cultural ramifications of honor and shame, particularly within the Muslim community. Audrey shares stories of women who have found their voices amidst oppressive paradigms of shame, highlighting the vital need for compassion and understanding in cross-cultural interactions. The episode underscores the importance of dialogue and education in bridging the gaps between differing worldviews, ultimately advocating for a message of hope and healing that resonates across cultural boundaries. This engaging exchange not only enriches the listener's understanding of guilt and shame but also inspires a movement towards dignity, honor, and the radical grace found in the teachings of Christ.

Takeaways:

• The distinction between guilt and shame is crucial for understanding personal identity and healing.
• Audrey Frank emphasizes the importance of recognizing honor and shame in various cultural contexts.
• The podcast explores how understanding guilt and shame can lead to freedom in Christ.
• Shame often silences individuals, while understanding one's identity can restore their voice.
• The conversation highlights the significance of storytelling in conveying theological truths.
• Audrey's personal journey illustrates the transformative power of God's grace in overcoming shame.

What makes someone a follower of Jesus? Can you identify the characteristics? How can you identify a Jesus' follower? What is your test? Is it because they say they are? Can someone claim to be a Christ-follower and not be a Christian? What if they are baptized? What about those who look and sound like Jesus' followers, but upon further inspection, we can see that they are simply trying to use God to get what they want?

Join Travis as he walks through one of the most difficult passages in all of Scripture (Acts 8:9-25) and shows us what a true Christ-follower looks like and what God really wants from us. Happy listening!

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The Chosen has taken the world by storm. It enables us to see things from the perspective of those who knew Him. We can find ourselves in the story and see how their stories make sense. Dallas has tapped into our imagination and desire to see and know more. How did they start to follow Jesus? What was it about Him that would make them follow when He gave the invitation? Dallas has created a world that is not far removed but is close up. What is it that draws us in? What is special about it? How is God using it? What are the critics saying? Join Travis as he speaks with Dallas Jenkins about The Chosen and how he crafted it the way that he did. Listen in as they talk about why people love it, the challenge of expanding on the greatest story ever known, the criticisms that come, and Dallas superpower! Happy listening!

Check out The Chosen.

Change your world (and make your family proud!) by supporting the ministry of Apollos Watered.

Join Travis and Os Guinness as they discuss religious liberty in the West and how Christians should respond. Western Christians are often ignorant of history and can't see the forces that are slowly eroding away their faith and religious freedoms. It's the spirit of the age operating as a cultural carbon monoxide of sorts, slowly lulling people into a spiritual stupor by pleasures and distractions. They talk about Os's new book, “The Magna Carta of Humanity,” as well as modernity and its effect on the modern evangelical church. Rather than despair, Os shares his hope of a revival because only God can save us from the cultural morass we are in.

Check out The Magna Carta of Humanity and many other of Os' books and learn more about Os.

Change your world (and make your family proud!) by supporting the ministry of Apollos Watered.

Sign up for the Apollos Watered newsletter.

Help support the ministry of Apollos Watered and transform your world today!

Is religious freedom being threatened? What is going on in Western Civilization? Os Guinness has some guides.

Travis and Os Guinness discuss humor, American vs. British culture, modernity, the state of the modern evangelical church in the West, and cultural revolutions happening all around us. Os and Travis also discuss Os's new book The Magna Carta of Humanity and how the only hope for the West is to not look at the American Revolution as a template for solving society's ills, nor is the French Revolution, which is actually much more dangerous and representative toward what is going on in our world today. There is only one solution and you have to listen in and find out!

Get The Magna Carta of Humanity

Learn more about Os.

Get some of Os' other books.

Check out other episodes dealing with Western Civilization:

#61 | The Magna Carta of Humanity, Pt. 2 | Os Guinness

#168 | Revelation Movement | Vishal Mangalwadi

#176 | The Air We Breathe | Glen Scrivener

#177 | Magnetic Points With Our Culture Pt. 1 | Daniel Strange

#178 | Magnetic Points With Our Culture Pt. 2 | Daniel Strange

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Takeaways:

• Os Guinness articulates the profound connection between the biblical narrative and the foundational principles of freedom that underpin American democracy.
• The discussion highlights the importance of understanding modern cultural movements, particularly how cultural Marxism influences contemporary society.
• Os Guinness emphasizes that freedom is fundamentally a means to an end, specifically the glory of God, rather than an end in itself.
• The conversation underscores the necessity of a biblical framework for understanding and engaging with the issues of freedom and justice in today's world.
• Travis Michael Fleming and Os Guinness explore the historical significance of the Magna Carta, linking it to the concept of human dignity and freedom.
• The podcast reflects on the current state of evangelicalism, urging a return to deep theological roots and engagement with societal issues.

There are things in life that fly at us that we didn't expect-trials, troubles, and traumas--things we have done as well as things done to us that we do not like, but God has a way of taking them and turning them into unexpected blessings. As Travis continues walking us through the books of Acts, we find a church growing and persecution growing along with it. Join Travis as he walks through Acts 8:4-8; 26-40 and looks at Philip the evangelist's unexpected cross-cultural ministry to Samaritan's. In doing so, we see that persecution enabled thrust him out, but it resulted in people coming to Jesus in ways that he probably didn't imagine.

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When I was a kid, I remember my mother saying stuff like, "Make new friends but keep the old. One is silver and the other is gold." And "See a penny pick it up, all day long, you will have good luck." When we were walking on a sidewalk she would warn me to not step on the crack because it would break her back!

My mom was a little superstitious and by teaching me some of those little sayings, I became a little superstitious too. But when I gave my life to Jesus and started reading the Word of God, I slowly saw how superstitious and wrong some of those ideas were. I exchanged the little diddy's my mother taught for some better words to live by--the words of God.

We all have little expressions we have been taught over the years by parents, grandparents, friends, aunts, uncles, cousins, teachers, coaches, etc. But if we want to find peace, live a life of purpose, then we need to abandon old ways and replace them with that which is truly dependable -the Word of God.

In this week's episode, Travis explores another episode from the life of the early church with Stephen's sermon. He recites Israel's story passed down from previous generations. They were words that he had lived by and he was showing his fellow Jews, and us today, how we can live and order our lives by Jesus, the one true Son of God. Listen in and see his words and how his words can become the words you live by.

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Help support the ministry of Apollos Watered and transform your world today!