In this conversation, Max Wilkins and Jim Ramsey discuss the staying power of TMS Global and the challenges and opportunities of a non-static mission context. They highlight the importance of embracing ambiguity, learning, and contextualizing the work of mission. They also emphasize the commitment to God's mission and the connection within the TMS Global community. The conversation touches on the need for cultural competency in mission leadership and the significance of understanding the movement of peoples in global migration. Both Max and Jim express their excitement for the future, with Max looking forward to embracing what's next and Jim eager to lead the organization forward with a fresh team and new opportunities.

Chapters

(00:00) Introduction and 40 Years of TMS Global

(02:07) Embracing Ambiguity and Contextualizing the Work

(04:49) Challenges of a Non-Static Mission Context

(07:31) Massive Changes in the Last 40 Years

(08:00) Preparing for Leadership in a Changing World

(11:10) Engaging Local Churches in Mission

(16:33) Observations on Trajectories and Shifts in Missions

(19:53) Perceptions and Challenges in Mission

(24:13) Responding to Changing Perceptions

(26:44) Understanding the Meaning of the Gospel

(29:36) The Call to Make Disciples

(32:04) Addressing Missionary Attrition

(39:21) Missionary vs. Cross-Cultural Worker

(42:45) Transitioning Leadership

(47:33) Looking Forward to the Future

Our final sit down about the concept of Train, Mobilize, and Serve (TMS) we discuss the importance of training in cross-cultural work and how it helps in sharing the Gospel and transforming lives. We also highlight the role of raising up leaders within the local church. The facilitators in training program is mentioned as a way to pass on knowledge and experiences to the next generation. The conversation also touches on the use of experiential learning and participatory activities to promote growth and teamwork. The value of being a humble learner and walking alongside others in service is emphasized.

In this episode, we sit down for a conversation with a worker who serves in a closed country to discuss how the three distinct aspects of TMS (train, mobilize, serve) ccreate healthy workers prepared for long-term service. The training provided by TMS is characterized by compassion, joy, fun, reality, grace, and truth. The concept of mobilization at TMS is not limited to the front office but ingrained in the DNA of the organization. Serving is seen as the core purpose of TMS, and training helps in mobilizing and serving better.

Chapters

(00:00) Introduction and Background

(01:40) Meaning of Train, Mobilize, Serve

(02:37) Impact of Training on Field Work

(05:07) Serving and Mobilizing in Specific Contexts

(07:35) Faith Forward and Faith Neutral Communities

(08:28) Empowering Communities and Exiting

Season four of Thy Kingdom Pod begins by breaking down TMS' name, which stands for Train, Mobilize, and Serve. The participants discuss how training, mobilizing, and serving look like in their context. They highlight the importance of training and development in their office, with employees passing on their knowledge and skills to others. They also talk about how they have been mobilized to reach out to their community and serve others. The concept of incarnational ministry is also discussed, emphasizing the importance of crossing barriers and being present in the lives of others.

Chapters

(00:00) Introduction and Background

(01:45) Training, Mobilizing, and Serving

(05:51) Understanding Incarnational Ministry

This week Jon & Dory discuss the best & worst Jolly Ranchers, the pitfalls of focusing too much on "God's Plan," and how The Beatitudes in Matthew 5 describe a way of Jesus that often is at odds with the reality of our culture, yet we are called to engage with the people in our culture.

In this story from the field, Jenifer talked with some friends who are living and serving in Selma, Alabama. Selma was the site of many important events in Civil Rights Movement of the 1960's, perhaps notably the march Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. led across Edmund Pettus Bridge. Back in January, the town was devastated by a tornado. TMS Global workers shared what it was like to serve the people of Selma after such a disaster, as well as the long term challenges that have been faced by the community.

This week, the mind picnic with Jon and Dory continues! This week, Dory wrestles with the unknown and how we address questions with no clear answers. Jon, having come back from attending several conferences, has been contemplating the diversity of Christian thought in the world, and what Jesus truly meant when told us to enter through the narrow gate. Jon and Dory examine Matthew 7 in addressing the latter question, and also take some anecdotes from the Chronicles of Narnia.

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