Visionlife365

Gary and Jason are taking on a topic that is sometimes seen as a foreign concept in the church: the role of elders. In this podcast, they explore the importance of this leadership position and why it is often misunderstood.

Many people believe that deacons should do the job of the elder, but Gary and Jason explain that deacons serve the pastor and the congregation. In contrast, elders provide spiritual accountability and protection for the pastor and the congregation. They delve into the biblical basis for this role and how elders can help strengthen and guide the church.

Gary and Jason also share their personal experiences and opinions and discuss the importance of incorporating this leadership position in the church. Although their church, IBEM, has not yet voted on whether or not to have elders, Gary and Jason are both very much in favor of incorporating elders into their leadership structure if the Lord leads the congregation in this direction.

Join Gary and Jason as they engage in this critical and thought-provoking discussion about the role of elders in the church. 

Gary and Jason are tackling one of the most significant theological debates in the Christian faith: are salvation and discipleship one and the same or two separate entities? In this thought-provoking podcast, they explore the nuances of this complex topic and provide their unique perspectives.

Neither Gary nor Jason wants to answer with a definite yes or no, but instead, they focus on the importance of tangible growth in the believer's life. They discuss the relationship between salvation and discipleship and repentance's role in both.

Using biblical references and real-life examples, Gary and Jason delve into the gospel's transformative power and how it leads to a changed life. They also explore the importance of following Jesus, not just believing in Him, and how this is reflected in how we live our lives.

Join Gary and Jason in this timely and relevant discussion, challenging listeners to think deeply about the nature of salvation and discipleship. Don't miss out on this important and thought-provoking podcast, where they explore whether salvation and discipleship are the same or two separate entities. Tune in now!

Gary and Jason are taking you on a journey to explore the potential dangers of seeing foreign cultures only through American eyes. This podcast delves into how our perceptions can shape our understanding of other cultures and how wrong perceptions can lead to wrong conclusions.

Gary and Jason share their experiences of traveling and engaging with different cultures, highlighting the importance of being culturally aware and sensitive. They discuss how misunderstanding a culture can have serious consequences, including financial consequences. For example, providing financial aid to people in need may seem like a good thing. Still, if it is not done culturally appropriately, it can harm them in the long run by making them financially dependent.

Join Gary and Jason as they explore the importance of cultural humility and the steps we can take to challenge our own biases and gain a deeper understanding of the cultures we encounter. They also share practical tips and insights on engaging with different cultures respectfully and beneficially with both parties.

Don't miss out on this thought-provoking and engaging podcast, where Gary and Jason challenge the dangers of seeing foreign cultures only through American eyes. Tune in now!

Within the realm of theology, there are varying positions on faith preceding regeneration or regeneration preceding faith. The position of our ministry is that faith precedes regeneration. Listen as Gary and Jason share why they believe a person must surrender to God's authority in repentance before being saved.  Regardless of which side of the aisle you fall on, this theological discussion will challenge you and make you think!

The gospel is God's most important message entrusted to the believer as stewardship. Unfortunately, many Christians are not confident to share their faith and often seek out their pastor to "witness" to someone because they don't have the confidence to do it themselves.  In February 2023 our seminary will be launching a class about understanding the gospel. Listen as Gary and Jason discuss what are the important aspects of a clear gospel message. This will encourage you in your faith and give you tools to help you share your faith! 

San Pedro de Macoris is a unique city. Due to the influence of baseball, we are often blessed to have both Spanish-speaking and English-speaking visitors. This presents a unique opportunity for ministry. Listen as Gary and Jason talk through our ministry philosophy and how we operate our bilingual ministry.

Ministry presents you with some interesting choices at times. Christmas 2022 was one of those interesting times. Christmas fell on a Sunday. Praise the Lord that we had an excellent turnout for services, but what do you do when people don't attend a service that falls on a holiday? Often times it is easy to be very judgmental and jump to conclusions. Listen as Gary and Jason talk through this delicate subject and how they wade through the waters of discipling new believers towards faithfulness.  

Gary and Jason try to challenge themselves continually and expand through reading. This podcast is about their recommended reads. There are some great books that will help you in your personal and ministry growth. Listen in for some great suggestions for your personal reading! 

2022 was a great year. Stepping out of COVID gave opportunities for ministry growth again. There is excitement in the air at our church. Listen in as Gary and Jason share the incredible things God has done as they close out 2022 and look toward 2023! 

Being a missionary is fantastic and rewarding! When the holidays come sometimes there is a bit of homesickness. Listen as Gary and Jason discuss how to keep the holidays exciting and refreshing even when overseas.