In this episode of Missiology Shelf, Martin Rodriguez speaks with Stephen Bevans about his book Community of Missionary Disciples: The Continuing Creation of the Church. They discuss the story behind the book, missional ecclesiology, ecumenical contributions to the conversation, the importance of pneumatology in mission, the continuing creation of the church, baptism, leadership, tradition, discernment, and much more.

Martin and Greg reflect on the episode #56 interview with Daniel White Hodge. They discuss hip-hop as a window for cultural and theological analysis, the definition of missiology, the experiences of those marginalized by the missiological establishment, and the need for intersectional perspectives.

Martin Rodriguez sits down with Daniel White Hodge, professor of intercultural communications at North Park University.

Bible translator and anthropologist Dan Shaw joins us to discuss his book Singing Samo Songs: From Shaman to Pastor, drawn from over 50 years of work among the Samo people in Papua New Guinea.

In this conversation, Shaw reflects on how scripture became embedded in Samo life—not just through translation, but through singing, storytelling, and cultural ritual.

We explore how indigenous communities engage faith on their own terms, touching on themes of hybridity, contextualization, and the intersection of anthropology and mission.

What does it mean to recognize the Spirit at work in unfamiliar expressions of Christianity? And how is Christian identity shaped by the cultures that receive it?

Martin and Greg reflect on the episode #53 interview with Stanley Skreslet. They discuss how philosophy relates to missiology, the definition of missiology, the role of theology in missiology, and the experience of being evangelized.

Martin Rodriguez sits down with Stanley Skreslet, professor emeritus at Union Presbyterian Seminary. They discuss Stanley's experiences in missiology as well as his hopes for its future.

Martin and Greg reflect on the episode #51 interview with Ruth Padilla Deborst. They discuss holistic mission, raising children missionally, intentional community, and the enneagram.

Martin Rodriguez sits down with Ruth Padilla Deborst, an associate professor of world Christianity at Western Theological Seminary and dean of extension courses at Comunidad de Estudios Teológicos Interdisciplinarios. They discuss Ruth's experiences in missiology as well as her hopes for its future .

This episode is part of our Missiology Shelf series, where we dive into influential works shaping the field of missiology. Anthropologist Johnny Ramirez-Johnson joins us to discuss his latest book, The Power of Love for Reaching Out to "the Other." Drawing from his research and personal experiences, Johnny explores themes of love, cultural engagement, and the role of the Holy Spirit in mission. We also tackle intersectionality, self-awareness, and the challenges of white privilege in a multicultural society. Packed with practical wisdom, this episode highlights the importance of humility, listening, and taking actionable steps to build bridges across diverse communities. Don’t miss this thought-provoking dialogue on fostering connection and embracing “the other” with love and grace.

In this episode of Missiology Shelf, we dive into the book Missional Life in Practice and Theory, edited by Chris Flanders and Greg McKinzie, a Festschrift honoring the enduring impact of Gailyn Van Rheenen on mission theory and practice. Chris and Greg reflect on their personal experiences with Van Rheenen, discuss his pioneering role as a "missionary theologian," and explore the essential connection between theory and practice in missional engagement. The conversation also highlights Van Rheenen's global influence, his innovative concepts like the missional helix, and the evolving landscape of missiology in today's context.