Amazon to the Himalayas

Host Paul Akin interviews missionary Michael about his journey from nominal Catholicism in Knoxville, Tennessee, to serving nearly 15 years overseas in Central Asia and Germany. Michael shares how God used prayer for unreached peoples to call his family to missions, the challenges and opportunities of church planting in post-Christian Germany, and the story behind their German-speaking church plant in Cologne. They also discuss international churches, missionary pastors, language learning, and the importance of healthy local churches in global missions.

Host Paul Akin talks with Matthew Ellison and Denny Spits about church–agency partnership in missions, arguing agencies should serve churches as facilitators, not replace them. Citing Steve Byrne, they stress churches as senders, warn against churches acting as their own agencies, and highlight the need for strong missionary care. They conclude that pastoral leadership is key to building a sending culture where missions shapes discipleship.Mentioned in this episode:Doctorate of Missiology at Southern Seminary

Host Paul Akin interviews Denny Spits and Matthew Ellison about their book The Sending Shepherd: Leading Churches to Disciple All Nations, arguing that shepherding and sending belong together in pastoral ministry. They highlight barriers to becoming a sending church—misdefined missions, risk-averse North American culture, and “missional living” that replaces cross-cultural sending—along with research from Barna Group showing strong support for missions but little emphasis on the unreached. They also outline marks of potential missionaries and urge pastors, following Acts 13, to send their best for the sake of the kingdom, offering a framework for assessing character, competency, compatibility, and calling within the local church.Mentioned in this episode:The NEW MDiv at Southern Seminary

Paul Akin interviews Ethiopian Pastor Nigussie Yadete about growing up in the Ethiopian Orthodox Church, hearing the gospel as a university lecturer, coming to saving faith, and facing family rejection. He shares his years teaching, serving, and training in churches in the United Arab Emirates, followed by internships in Abu Dhabi and at Capitol Hill Baptist Church, before returning to Ethiopia in May 2023 to plant a church in Addis Ababa. The church covenanted with 28 members in August 2024 and has grown to about 85 members, baptizing 32 people while meeting in rented hotel space. They also discuss Ethiopia’s religious landscape, including prosperity-gospel influence, unemployment, limited theological training, and hopes for raising leaders and planting more churches.

Host Paul Akin interviews Pastor Abraham about key evangelical challenges, including family rejection tied to honor-shame dynamics, nominal Christianity, materialism, and prosperity-gospel influence. He describes his growing, English-speaking church (about 150 attendees, 79 members) with strong discipleship through classes, groups, and homes. Challenges include maintaining relational depth and meeting pastoral expectations, while opportunities include training pipelines, church planting, leadership development, and resource translation.Mentioned in this episode:Save Money by Studying On-Campus

Paul Akin interviews Pastor Abraham, a pastor whose church has grown from 20 to 150 and is focused on healthy church planting. Abraham recounts coming to faith at age 10 through John 3:16 and his family’s migration. After training and developing convictions about grace, along with conflict in his church context, he joined a church in 2014, becoming an assistant pastor in 2015 and serving a multinational congregation. A 2017 conversation with a church planter led him to move in 2021 to plant a church, where he describes the region’s Christian heritage, strong Catholic influence, youth outmigration, and generally peaceful religious coexistence.Mentioned in this episode:The Online PhD at Southern Seminaryhttps://www.sbts.edu/online-phd/

Paul Akin interviews Pastor Doug Van Meter, an American who came to South Africa after time in Australia and has pastored Brackenhurst Baptist Church in Johannesburg for nearly 33 years. Doug describes South Africa’s post-apartheid context, ongoing racial and political tensions, and a religious landscape marked by nominal Christianity, syncretism (including the Zionist movement), and prosperity-gospel teaching. He shares how Brackenhurst has grown into a more multi-ethnic, gospel-preaching, missions-minded church connected to other like-minded churches, while facing challenges like corruption, crime, and pessimism. Doug is encouraged by people seeking biblical teaching, healthier churches being planted, and the potential of the younger generation, and he hopes to raise and train future leaders and plant more churches.Mentioned in this episode:The Online PhD at Southern Seminaryhttps://www.sbts.edu/online-phd/

Paul Akin interviews Pastor Juan Hernandez of Rescue Mission Church in Barranquilla, Colombia. Juan shares his journey from witchcraft and hostility toward Christians to faith in Christ and pastoral ministry. He describes Colombia’s largely Catholic context, the influence of prosperity theology, and a growing hunger for sound doctrine. He also recounts planting and reforming his church, now reaching about 520 people weekly with plans to plant more, and highlights a free seminary serving over 10,000 students across Latin America despite challenges like limited funding and pride.Mentioned in this episode:Doctorate of Missiology at Southern Seminary

Host Paul Akin talks with Sarah Lanier about her book Foreign to Familiar and how “hot” and “cold” climate cultures communicate love differently through indirect vs. direct communication, relationship vs. task focus, and views of honor, time, and authority. Lanier warns against judging other cultures through one’s own lens and argues there is no perfect culture; effectiveness requires learning what communicates love in the local context, including when directness is necessary for safety. For short-term missions, she advises taking no initiative, acting as guests, following local leadership, and selecting humble, teachable participants to avoid harming local ministry. They discuss applying these concepts within the U.S., using cultural curiosity for conflict resolution, avoiding stereotypes amid generational change, and preparing missionaries by building relationships with different cultural congregations before going overseas.Mentioned in this episode:The Doctor of Ministryhttps://www.sbts.edu/degree-programs/doctor-of-ministry/

Host Paul Akin interviews Sarah Lanier about her book "Foreign to Familiar" and how cultural differences affect communication, leadership, and missions. Lanier shares formative cross-cultural lessons from growing up in the Middle East, living in Amsterdam, and a painful miscommunication-filled move to Chile that led to mentoring on “hot” (relationship-focused, indirect) and “cold” (task-focused, direct) cultures. She explains why these categories matter, notes culture is only one “thread” among many that shape people, and gives practical examples of avoiding offense when saying no in relational contexts. Lanier also describes how misunderstanding these dynamics can create serious conflict, including Western-African tension in medical training settings.Mentioned in this episode:The Online PhD at Southern Seminaryhttps://www.sbts.edu/online-phd/

In this episode of Amazon to the Himalayas, host Paul Akin welcomes Trevin Wax and Thomas West to discuss their new book, The Gospel Way Catechism, a discipleship resource designed to help believers know what they believe and why. They explain the historic role of catechesis in forming Christians and argue that in an age shaped by secular individualism and cultural confusion, the church must embrace intentional “counter-catechesis.” Rooted in historic orthodoxy yet written for today, the book’s 50 questions and answers address issues like identity, sexuality, freedom, and consumerism, offering a practical tool for personal devotion, families, small groups, and whole-church discipleship, with a kids version in development.

In this episode of Amazon to the Himalayas, host Paul Akin talks with Pastor Jeff Hay of Ballyculle Community Church in Dublin about gospel ministry in modern Ireland. They discuss Ireland’s Christian history, rapid secularization, and the challenges of evangelism in a culturally Catholic yet increasingly post-Christian society, while also highlighting encouraging signs of renewed openness, church growth, and the central role of the local church in mission.

Host Paul Akin interviews Pastor Tiago Vera of First Baptist Church of Lisbon on Amazon to the Himalayas. They discuss Portugal’s secular context, the revitalization of the Lisbon church, and the need for a clear gospel witness.Mentioned in this episode:Doctorate of Missiology at Southern Seminary

In this episode of Amazon to the Himalayas, host Paul Akin talks with Pastor Liam Garvie of Charlotte Chapel in Edinburgh about his journey to faith, his call to pastoral ministry, and the realities of gospel work in post-Christian Scotland. They discuss challenges and signs of hope for the church, the need for pastor training, and Liam’s involvement with the Pillar Network in church planting and revitalization.For more about Southern Seminary, visit sbts.edu.Mentioned in this episode:The Doctor of Ministryhttps://www.sbts.edu/degree-programs/doctor-of-ministry/

In this episode of Amazon to the Himalayas, host Paul Akin speaks with Pastor Paul Reese, lead pastor of Charlotte Chapel in Edinburgh, Scotland. Paul shares his journey from a Christian upbringing in Cardiff, Wales, to leading one of the UK’s historic evangelical churches. They discuss the unique challenges and gospel opportunities in Scotland, the state of the evangelical church in Edinburgh and across the UK, and signs of renewed spiritual interest among younger generations. Drawing on more than 16 years at Charlotte Chapel, Reese reflects on cultivating a mission-shaped congregation, church planting and revitalization, and the importance of prayer, community engagement, and a faithful biblical foundation for gospel ministry both locally and globally.Mentioned in this episode:The Online PhD at Southern Seminaryhttps://www.sbts.edu/online-phd/

In this episode of Amazon to the Himalayas, Dr. Paul Akin talks with Pastor Martin Smith of Hawick Baptist Church in Scotland’s Borders. Martin shares his journey to faith, his call to ministry, and his heart for serving rural Southeast Scotland. Together they explore the cultural and spiritual realities of the Borders, the story of Hawick Baptist Church, and the challenges and hope of gospel ministry in a post-industrial, largely unreached region. The episode highlights the perseverance required for church revitalization and a vision for future gospel work and church planting in the area.Mentioned in this episode:Doctorate of Missiology at Southern Seminary

In this episode of Amazon to the Himalayas, Paul Akin speaks with Dr. Miguel Núñez about the urgent need for theological education in Latin America. They discuss training local pastors, the region’s growing role in global missions, and key theological challenges, including the influence of Pentecostalism. The conversation highlights the importance of sound doctrine, humility, and learning from the global church as Latin America continues to shape the future of missions.

In this episode of Amazon to the Himalayas, Paul Akin talks with Dr. Miguel Núñez about the growth and challenges of Christianity in Latin America. They explore the region’s theological history, the influence of prosperity teaching, and the expanding global impact of Latin American churches. Dr. Núñez emphasizes the importance of Reformed theology, well-trained pastors, and the energy of young believers who may be fueling a renewed movement. They also discuss the need for accessible theological education and celebrate initiatives like Southern Seminary’s online training programs.Mentioned in this episode:Doctorate of Missiology at Southern Seminary

In this episode of Amazon to the Himalayas, Paul Akin, provost and professor of Missions at Southern Seminary, talks with Dr. Jimmy Bledsoe, a veteran missionary with 13 years in East Africa. They discuss the crucial role of theological education in strengthening local churches, the challenges pastors face in accessing solid training, and how cultural influences shape Christianity in the region. Dr. Bledsoe offers valuable insight into the current needs, obstacles, and opportunities for gospel-centered education in East Africa.Mentioned in this episode:Save Money by Studying On-Campus

In this episode of Amazon to the Himalayas, Paul Akin, provost and professor of Missions at Southern Seminary, talks with Dr. Jimmy Bledsoe, a veteran missionary with 13 years in East Africa. They discuss the crucial role of theological education in strengthening local churches, the challenges pastors face in accessing solid training, and how cultural influences shape Christianity in the region. Dr. Bledsoe offers valuable insight into the current needs, obstacles, and opportunities for gospel-centered education in East Africa.

In this episode of Amazon to the Himalayas, Paul Akin talks with Bradley Bell of the Upstream Collective about the vision of the “sending church.” Bell explains how Upstream equips churches to reclaim their central role in missions through training, resources, and partnerships. They discuss common obstacles, the importance of prayer and biblical grounding, and real-world efforts—including work in Cameroon—that demonstrate the powerful potential of churches in fulfilling the Great Commission.Mentioned in this episode:Doctorate of Missiology at Southern Seminary

In this episode of Amazon to the Himalayas, host Paul Akin talks with Pastor Matt Tyler about his journey from Arkansas to Bangkok. Matt shares how he and his wife Emily followed God’s call overseas, eventually leading him to pastor Bangkok City Baptist Church. They discuss the challenges of ministry in a Buddhist-majority city, the value of English-speaking churches in global hubs, and Matt’s hope for developing indigenous church leaders in Thailand.Mentioned in this episode:Doctorate of Missiology at Southern Seminary

In this episode of Amazon to the Himalayas, host Paul Akin talks with Dr. Scott Logston, co-author of Prioritizing the Church in Mission. Drawing on his experience in church planting, pastoral ministry, and mission work, Dr. Logston explains why the local church must remain central to global missions. They discuss the risks of sidelining the church, practical ways to align mission strategies with biblical priorities, and how modern individualism has shaped today’s mission efforts.

In this episode of Amazon to the Himalayas, Paul Akin speaks with Pastor Matthias Lohmann of the Free Evangelical Church in Munich. They discuss the decline of Christianity in Germany, the challenges of evangelism in a secular culture, and encouraging signs of renewal through new churches and growing interest in ministry. Loman also shares his journey from agnosticism to pastoral leadership and offers prayer requests for the church in Germany.Mentioned in this episode:Doctorate of Missiology at Southern Seminary

In this episode of Amazon to the Himalayas, Paul Akin talks with Dr. Aaron Menikoff, senior pastor of Mount Vernon Baptist Church in Georgia, about his new book Prioritizing Missions in the Church. Dr. Menikoff shares why missions should be central to every local church and offers practical, biblical guidance for raising up and sending out missionaries—both to neighbors and the nations.Mentioned in this episode:Doctorate of Missiology at Southern Seminary

In this episode of Amazon to the Himalayas, Dr. Paul Akin talks with Dr. Thomas West, pastor of Nashville First Baptist Church and former church planter in London. Dr. West reflects on planting a gospel-centered church in post-Christian London and now leading a historic congregation in the American South. He shares lessons on ministry, mentorship, and the faithfulness of Jesus across cultures and seasons of life.Mentioned in this episode:Doctorate of Missiology at Southern Seminary

In this episode of Amazon to the Himalayas, host Paul Akin talks with Josh Powell, Senior Pastor of Taylors First Baptist Church in South Carolina, about his unexpected trip to jail. What started as a partnership trip turned dangerous when Powell was detained after sharing the gospel in a closed country. His story reveals the courage, faith, and sacrifice often required to fulfill the Great Commission.

In this episode of Amazon to the Himalayas, host Paul Akin speaks with Sam, a missionary who served in Vietnam during the war. Sam shares stories of starting a seminary near Saigon, surviving the Tet Offensive, and facing life-threatening encounters with the Viet Cong. Despite the dangers, he and his family remained faithful to God’s call. The conversation also reflects on the lasting impact of their ministry and the growth of the Vietnamese Baptist Convention today.www.sbts.eduMentioned in this episode:Doctorate of Missiology at Southern Seminary

In this episode of Amazon to the Himalayas, host Paul Akin speaks with Sam James, a veteran Southern Baptist missionary who devoted more than 40 years to gospel work in Vietnam. Amid war, persecution, and political upheaval, James faithfully planted churches, discipled believers, and helped establish a lasting gospel presence in the country. Their conversation explores James’s early life, his call to missions, and the many challenges and victories he experienced. Listeners will gain insight into his innovative approaches to church planting and evangelism, as well as the resilience required to serve in turbulent times. This episode stands as a powerful testament to the enduring strength of the gospel and the impact of faithful mission work.

In this episode of 'Amazon to the Himalayas,' host Paul Akin interviews Timothy O'Day, a Southern Seminary graduate serving as a church planter and pastor in Utah. Timothy shares his journey from growing up in a pluralistic home in Missouri to planting Christ Fellowship Church near Salt Lake City. He discusses the challenges of evangelism in a predominantly LDS context, the importance of building genuine relationships, and the need for authenticity in ministry. Timothy also reflects on the value of bi-vocational ministry and offers advice to seminary students considering pastoral work in underserved areas.Mentioned in this episode:The Online PhD at Southern Seminaryhttps://www.sbts.edu/online-phd/

In this episode of Amazon to the Himalayas, host Paul Akin sits down with Adian Wood, a former student now serving as a missionary in North Africa. Adian traces his journey from a Christian upbringing and early mission trips in Asia and Europe to ministry in one of North Africa’s bustling megacities. He reflects on language learning, cultural adaptation, and the challenges of discipling local believers, while also sharing encouraging gospel encounters. This conversation highlights the realities of life on mission—the joys, the difficulties, and the urgent need for faithful laborers in the harvest.Mentioned in this episode:The Online PhD at Southern Seminaryhttps://www.sbts.edu/online-phd/

In this episode of Amazon to the Himalayas, Dr. Paul Akin talks with Dr. Jeremy Pierre about his recent mission trip to Kenya. Dr. Pierre shares what he learned from leading pastoral training and counseling sessions, the cultural contrasts he observed, and the spiritual hunger he witnessed. He reflects on the challenges and encouragements of missionary work and how these experiences shape ministry back home. The conversation also highlights the Bevin Center’s role in providing life-changing mission opportunities for Southern Seminary students and faculty.Mentioned in this episode:The Online PhD at Southern Seminaryhttps://www.sbts.edu/online-phd/

In this episode of 'Amazon to the Himalayas,' host Paul Akin sits down with Tim Challies and Tim Keesee to discuss their new book 'From The Rising of the Sun.' The conversation covers the book's inspiration, the project’s logistical challenges, and the vibrant stories of faith they encountered around the globe. The book and its accompanying videos explore churches from jungles to mountain villages, showcasing God’s work in diverse cultural settings. The episode also touches on the unique insights gained from witnessing global worship practices and the unity of the global church. The book aims to remind North American Christians of the expansive and powerful reach of the gospel.From the Rising of the Sun: https://a.co/d/70rVR0oMentioned in this episode:The Doctor of Ministryhttps://www.sbts.edu/degree-programs/doctor-of-ministry/

In this episode of 'Amazon to the Himalayas,' host Paul Akin, Provost and Professor of Missions at the Southern Baptist Theological Seminary, delves into the history, significance, and future of the Cooperative Program as we celebrate its 100th anniversary. Joined by Dr. Tony Wolf, the Executive Director and Treasurer of the South Carolina Baptist Convention, the conversation explores the impact of the Cooperative Program in funding global missions, church planting, theological education, and more. Dr. Wolf also discusses his newly co-edited book, 'A Unity of Purpose,' which encapsulates the essence and historical milestones of the Cooperative Program. The discussion underscores the importance of renewed commitment among Southern Baptists to this unique and effective missions funding mechanism.Mentioned in this episode:The Online PhD at Southern Seminaryhttps://www.sbts.edu/online-phd/

In this episode of 'Amazon to the Himalayas,' host Paul Akin sits down with Pastor Josh Manley of RAK Evangelical Church in the United Arab Emirates. They discuss the challenges and joys of church planting in the Middle East, the strategic importance of international churches in mission work, and the unique context of ministry in a predominantly Muslim region. Pastor Josh shares his journey from working in U.S. politics to leading a vibrant, multi-ethnic congregation in the heart of the Arabian Peninsula, touching on topics such as the role of trade languages in ministry, the transient nature of the community, and the significant opportunities for gospel witness and leadership training in this part of the world.Mentioned in this episode:The Online PhD at Southern Seminaryhttps://www.sbts.edu/online-phd/

In this episode of 'Amazon to the Himalayas,' host Paul Akin, provost and professor of Missions at the Southern Baptist Theological Seminary, discusses the evolving landscape of theological education in Brazil. The conversation highlights the shift towards distance education catalyzed by the pandemic, the significant role of technology in reaching remote areas, and the impact of historical missionary work. The discussion also covers the challenges of contextualization versus accommodation, the growing appetite for sound doctrine among younger Brazilian evangelicals, and the importance of training today's Baptist leaders to become the global leaders of tomorrow.

In this episode of 'Amazon to Himalayas,' host Paul Akin, provost and professor of Missions at the Southern Baptist Theological Seminary, discusses the rapid growth of Evangelical Christianity in Brazil and the critical need for theological education. Dr. Mark Johnson, who has over 30 years of experience working in Brazil, shares insights into the challenges and hopes for training pastors and missionaries in the country. The conversation covers the historical impact of Southern Baptist efforts, the effects of the disengagement strategy, and the current need for more top-tier theological leaders to sustain and grow the evangelical movement in Brazil.Mentioned in this episode:The Doctor of Ministryhttps://www.sbts.edu/degree-programs/doctor-of-ministry/

In this episode of 'Amazon to the Himalayas,' host Paul Akin discusses the strategic importance of global cities in fulfilling the Great Commission with Victor Hou from the International Mission Board. Victor shares his extensive experience living and working in urban contexts around the world, highlighting the rising urbanization and its implications for mission work. They discuss the role of cities as hubs for reaching unreached people groups, the biblical perspective on cities, and the challenges and opportunities faced by churches in urban areas. Practical advice is given on how local churches can engage in mission work in global cities and how prayer is essential in these efforts. The episode concludes with insights on inspiring the next generation to participate in mission work within urban environments.

In this episode of the Amazon to the Himalayas podcast, host Paul Akin talks with Will, a Southern Baptist missionary serving in Bogota, Colombia. Will shares his journey from pastoring in Texas to answering the call to missions, emphasizing God's incredible work in Colombia's evangelical churches. The conversation covers the challenges of ministry in a country marked by Catholicism and postmodern influences, the impact of prosperity gospel movements, and the exciting growth of expository preaching and church planting among Colombian evangelicals. Will also discusses theological training, the plight of unreached indigenous groups, and the importance of long-term and short-term mission work. Listeners are encouraged to pray for the political climate, safety, and expanding opportunities to spread the gospel in Colombia.Mentioned in this episode:Doctorate of Missiology at Southern Seminary

In this episode of 'Amazon to the Himalayas,' host Paul Akin, Provost and Professor of Missions at the Southern Baptist Theological Seminary, engages in a meaningful conversation with Dr. Scott Hildreth. Dr. Hildreth is an author, professor at Southeastern Baptist Theological Seminary, and a former missionary, discussing his new book 'A Short Guide to Evangelism and Missions.' They explore the biblical mandate for missions, the global and local challenges facing evangelism today, and practical advice for Christians seeking to fulfill the Great Commission. Dr. Hildreth emphasizes that missions are a call for every Christian, not just professionals, and the importance of understanding the 'Missio Dei'— the mission of God. The episode also covers how churches can equip their members for evangelism and the essential role of calling in mission work.Mentioned in this episode:Save Money by Studying On-Campus

In this episode of 'Amazon to the Himalayas,' host Paul Akin, provost and professor of Missions at the Southern Baptist Theological Seminary, explores the biblical and practical parallels between Paul's missionary journeys and modern missions. The conversation delves into the viability of international English-speaking churches, emphasizing the importance of wisdom and adaptability in different cultural contexts. Caleb, a seasoned missionary, shares personal experiences, including overcoming a significant plane crash, and reflects on the encouragements and challenges of his ministry. He offers nuanced insights into integrating local and expatriate believers, the importance of character in leadership, and the strategic considerations for preaching and church planting. Key resources for understanding cross-cultural communication and historical missionary practices are recommended for aspiring missionaries.Mentioned in this episode:The NEW MDiv at Southern Seminary

In this episode of 'Amazon to the Himalayas,' host Paul Akin, the provost and professor of Missions at the Southern Baptist Theological Seminary, engages in a conversation with Caleb Greggson. Caleb, who grew up on the mission field, talks about his journey from the United States to Asia, where he now pastors an international English-speaking church. The discussion delves into the viability and strategic importance of international churches in fulfilling the Great Commission. Caleb shares his personal experiences, theological insights, and challenges in church planting while shedding light on the integration of ecclesiology with mission work.Mentioned in this episode:Save Money by Studying On-Campus

In this episode of 'Amazon to the Himalayas,' host Paul Akin explores the shift in mission from the Old Testament to the New Testament. He discusses the centripetal mission of Israel, where nations were drawn to witness God's glory, to the centrifugal mission of the church, where believers are sent out to spread the gospel. Key topics include the Holy Spirit's evolving role, the significance of the Tabernacle and the Temple, and the Great Commission. The episode aims to deepen our understanding of biblical mission and inspire active participation in God's global mission today.

In this episode of 'Amazon to the Himalayas,' host Paul Akin interviews Dr. Rebecca Naylor, a seasoned missionary and distinguished surgeon who dedicated 35 years of her life to serving in India and 15 years mobilizing healthcare strategies globally. Dr. Naylor shares her journey from a young girl in Texas to a medical missionary in South Asia, discussing her impactful work at Bangalore Baptist Hospital and the extensive role of healthcare in missions. She emphasizes the significance of abiding in Christ, perseverance, and servant leadership, while also highlighting the evolving dynamics of medical missions and the influence of technology. The conversation is not only informative but also deeply inspirational, showcasing the dedication and courage of those serving in healthcare missions.Mentioned in this episode:Doctorate of Missiology at Southern Seminary

In this episode of 'Amazon to the Himalayas,' host Paul Akin, Provost and Professor of Missions at the Southern Baptist Theological Seminary, engages in a detailed conversation with Ryan Martin, author of 'Holding the Rope: How the Local Church Can Care for Its Sent Ones.' he discussion revolves around the need for holistic missionary care encompassing spiritual, emotional, and relational support extending beyond just financial assistance. Ryan shares his insights drawn from his extensive experience as a missions pastor and his work with Light Bearers Ministries. He emphasizes the importance of pre-field, on-field, and post-field care and provides practical steps for local churches to support missionaries effectively. The episode addresses various challenges missionaries face and underscores the critical role of prayer and proactive engagement from the local church in sustaining missionary efforts.Holding the Rope: How the Local Church Can Care for Its Sent Ones: https://www.amazon.com/Holding-Rope-Local-Church-Care/dp/1734370580Mentioned in this episode:The NEW MDiv at Southern Seminary

In this episode of 'Amazon to the Himalayas,' host Paul Akin, Provost and Professor of Missions at The Southern Baptist Theological Seminary, speaks with Dr. Brian DeVries, President of Muyo Theological College in South Africa. Dr. DeVries discusses his newly released book 'You'll Be My Witnesses: Theology for God's Church Serving in God's Mission,' which explores the biblical and theological foundations of mission work. The conversation delves into the continuity of mission from the Old Testament to the New Testament, the relationship between local churches and global missions, and the unique challenges faced by the church both in Africa and North America. Additionally, Dr. DeVries shares insights from his experiences in Africa and his academic journey at Southern Seminary, offering practical advice for pastors, missionaries, and church leaders striving to live out their call to be witnesses for Christ.Mentioned in this episode:Doctorate of Missiology at Southern Seminary

In this episode of 'Amazon to the Himalayas,' host Paul Akin, Provost and Professor of Missions at The Southern Baptist Theological Seminary, discusses the intersection of disaster relief and missionary work with Jason Cox, Vice President for International Ministries at SEND Relief. They delve into the organization's collaborative efforts with NAMB and IMB in responding to global disasters, the importance of compassion-driven aid, and the strategic role these efforts play in advancing the Great Commission. Jason shares insightful stories of how disaster relief opens doors for evangelism, the challenges faced in crisis response, and offers practical ways for churches and individuals to get involved with SEND Relief's ministry.Mentioned in this episode:Doctorate of Missiology at Southern Seminary

In this episode of 'Amazon to the Himalayas,' host Paul Akin discusses the centrality of missions in the Christian life. He explores the concept of God as a 'missionary God' and the Bible as a 'missionary book,' highlighting key themes from creation to the New Testament and beyond. Paul Akin emphasizes the importance of understanding God's mission and our role as His sent people, aligning our lives with His purpose, and living with confidence in His sovereignty.Mentioned in this episode:Doctorate of Missiology at Southern Seminary

In this episode of 'Amazon to the Himalayas,' Paul Akin, Provost and Professor of Missions at The Southern Baptist Theological Seminary, explores the increasing persecution and suffering faced by Christians worldwide. Joined by seasoned missionary Willie, they delve into firsthand experiences of dealing with adversity on the mission field. Willie shares his personal story of being beaten and arrested, and how this led to a deeper connection with God and increased boldness among local believers. The discussion also includes practical advice for those enduring persecution and how to support them through prayer and community. Listeners are encouraged to gain a deeper understanding and appreciation for the resilience and faith of missionaries and their families.Mentioned in this episode:The NEW MDiv at Southern Seminary

In this episode of 'Amazon to the Himalayas,' host Paul Akin, Provost and Professor of Missions at the Southern Baptist Theological Seminary, discusses the attributes, training, and preparation required for aspiring missionaries with Scott Ray, Senior Director of Field Personnel Deployment at the International Mission Board. Scott shares insights from his extensive experience in South Asia and his current role, emphasizing the significance of discipleship, cross-cultural experience, evangelistic practice, theological training, and physical and mental health. Additionally, Scott elaborates on the critical role of local churches in missionary preparation and practical steps for candidates looking to embark on a life dedicated to missions.Mentioned in this episode:Save Money by Studying On-Campus