Join Ryan Robertson, President of Reaching & Teaching and elder at Third Avenue Baptist Church, as he shares his journey from a multicultural upbringing in Canada to his mission work. He discusses the rise of English-speaking churches in urban areas, emphasizing their unique role in fostering unity. The conversation also touches on the importance of theological alignment in missionary efforts and the necessity for local churches to support missions through mentorship and training. Filled with personal anecdotes, the dialogue balances faith, urgency, and cultural understanding.
Prayer is central to fostering constructive dialogue, focusing discussions on uplifting and glorifying God throughout the episode.
Ryan's upbringing in a multicultural environment profoundly shaped his faith journey and commitment to ministry from a young age.
His transition from pastoral ministry to finance at Liberty University illustrates how personal experiences can redirect career aspirations.
The episode highlights the critical role of local churches in training missionaries, emphasizing their responsibility in mission work over agencies.
Deep dives
The Role of Prayer in Conversations
The importance of prayer is highlighted as a central element in conversations. It sets a tone that focuses the dialogue on uplifting and glorifying God. The hosts emphasize that their discussions aim to be constructive and supportive for listeners. This foundational aspect shapes the entire direction and attitude of the episode.
Ryan Robertson's Personal Testimony
Ryan Robertson shares his testimony, detailing his upbringing in a multicultural environment in Canada and his journey to faith. He recounts the influence of his faith community at Bramalee Baptist Church and the pivotal moment when he accepted Christ after a Christmas event. This early commitment was significant in shaping his desires for ministry. His experience illustrates how formative relationships and environments can lead to a lifelong commitment to service.
The Impact of Liberty University
Ryan discusses his time at Liberty University, where he initially pursued a passion for pastoral ministry but later shifted to finance. The university's environment, coupled with his personal experiences, led him to realize the complexities and responsibilities tied to pastoral roles. This transition showcases how formative experiences can redirect one's path in significant ways. It suggests that personal ambitions and career choices can evolve with greater understanding and new priorities.
Radical Life Changes After a Transformative Book
A pivotal moment in Ryan's life occurs when he reads the book 'Radical' by David Platt, which profoundly influences his perspectives on faith and living authentically for Christ. He reflects on the drastic changes he made following the book's message, emphasizing the need for communal and elder guidance when undergoing life-altering choices. This experience serves as a cautionary tale about the potential pitfalls of radical decisions made without proper counsel. It highlights the importance of balancing zeal with wisdom in one's spiritual journey.
The Journey to Missions and Ecclesiology
Ryan's journey involves a deep exploration of ecclesiology and the structure of church governance. He shares his thoughts on different forms of church authority, stressing the need for sound biblical foundations in mission work. His experiences raise important questions about how church polity can affect missions and ministry strategies. This discussion reinforces the notion that understanding the church's authority is pivotal in promoting healthy missionary practices.
Engaging with English-speaking Churches Globally
The significance of English-speaking churches as hubs for missions in global cities is emphasized, showcasing their role in cultivating diverse congregations. Ryan notes that these churches can serve as launch points for missions while fostering connections among varied nationalities. This approach illustrates how the integration of various cultures can reflect the kingdom of God. It also points to the potential for local churches to spread the gospel efficiently across international boundaries.
Fostering Local Church Involvement in Missions
The episode discusses the essential role that local churches play in training and sending missionaries. Ryan argues that healthy church involvement is vital for sustainable missions rather than relying solely on agencies. He stresses that the local church serves as the primary means of cultivating missionaries' theological foundations. This observation underscores the need for churches to embrace their responsibilities in equipping believers for mission work.
The Nature of Missions Agencies
Ryan explores how missions agencies should function in relation to local churches, advocating for a model that prioritizes the church's role. He critiques the often bureaucratic nature of some organizations, suggesting they should focus on supplementing church-led efforts rather than replacing them. This perspective raises questions about the effectiveness of mission structures that lack strong ties to local churches. Ultimately, he calls for a cooperative approach that values theological alignment in missions.
