From Africa to the Abortion Clinic: Anthony Mathenia on Suffering and the Sovereignty in Evangelism

Anthony Mathenia ministered faithfully in Ethiopia as a missionary, but the pragmatism and watering-down of the gospel he saw from his fellow cross-cultural workers worried him. He was charting a new course—until God’s sovereignty directed him elsewhere, and the sudden passing of his wife brought him back to the U.S. to raise their children. Now he’s pastoring and preaching the gospel to abortion-seekers on the frontlines in his city. So what does pro-life ministry have in common with evangelism in Ethiopia? As it turns out: everything. Anthony is pastor of Christ Church in Radford, Virginia, a board member of HeartCry Missionary Society, and the founder of Better Than Life ministries. Follow him on Twitter. Announcement: If you’re coming to Together for the Gospel, join us for an expert panel and luncheon discussing the topic: who are “the nations,” and what can the local church do to reach them? Hear from Paul Davis, Zane Pratt, Darren Carlson, Brooks Buser, John Klaassen, and more debating the important issues raised in Darren’s 2019 article on the meaning of the Great Commission. Register now for only $10, and enjoy lunch on us in Louisville on April 15! We’re excited to partner with Live Global to pull off this event. If you haven’t already signed up for T4G, use the promo code T4G20LiveGlobal10OFF to receive $10 off your registration. Remember to share, rate, leave a review, and subscribe. Together we can bridge the gap between the worlds of theology and missions. Want to ask a question or suggest a topic? Email us. The Missions Show is powered by ABWE International and the Global Gospel Fund. This episode is also sponsored by Radius International.