

Missionary Minds
Paul Schlehlein
From the rural village of Mbhokota in Limpopo, South Africa, hear from the mind of a real-world missionary of almost 20 years. Paul Schlehlein–or "boti Paul / mfundisi" (brother Paul / teacher) as he is addressed in the podcast–hails from Wisconsin, America but has left to cross the world, a culture, and a language group to go and minister to the Tsonga people of northern South Africa. With his knowledge of the scriptures, a passion for church history, and lessons from the field he seeks to speak on issues of the faith, the family, and the fog of worldview confusion that plagues our day.
Episodes
Mentioned books

Aug 29, 2025 • 29min
MM 121: Cultivating Good-Mannered Young Men
In this episode, we explore how to raise young men who stand out for their respect, humility, and integrity in a world that often values the opposite. What does it take to shape boys into well-mannered men who honor God, family, and community? With real-life insights and timeless wisdom, you’ll hear practical ways to instill habits that build character for a lifetime.

Aug 26, 2025 • 7min
A Husband’s Role in His Wife’s Physical Beauty (TARIF 218)
The beauty industry is booming—South Africa alone spent $6 billion on products in 2023—but how does Scripture shape our view of beauty? Is physical attraction simply vanity, or is it a God-given blessing? And what role should husbands play in helping their wives stay both inwardly and outwardly beautiful? This episode explores the Bible’s balanced perspective on beauty—warning against pride and idolatry, while affirming God’s design for attraction and marriage. From Proverbs to the Song of Solomon, we’ll consider how love, faithfulness, and holiness can keep beauty flourishing long after the wedding day.

Aug 22, 2025 • 24min
MM 120: How to Teach Young Men Respect and Humility
In a day when so many young men are told to love and exalt themselves, we need more men who are taught how to be humble. In this episode we tackle practical steps to put off pride and put on humility.

4 snips
Aug 21, 2025 • 7min
Abolishing Bride Price and Traditional Sexual Teachings (TARIF 217)
Can cultural traditions like bride price and specific sexual rituals coexist with Christianity? This discussion dives deep into the harmful roots of these practices, revealing their links to idolatry. The conversation challenges believers to prioritize their faith over cultural norms and confront the reality of their rituals. It calls for a reformation that values integrity and courage, urging listeners to consider whether they’re honoring God or merely appeasing idols. Bold insights pave the way for transforming marriage into a more spiritually grounded institution.

Aug 19, 2025 • 7min
Bitcoin: Blessing or Temptation? (TARIF 216)
Bitcoin has soared past $120,000, leaving traditional markets far behind. But what should Christians make of this? Could Bitcoin have solved Africa’s financial struggles—or even your own? Or does chasing quick wealth reveal deeper issues of greed and misplaced trust? This episode explores what Scripture says about work, saving, and investing, while weighing the risks and opportunities of Bitcoin. From Proverbs to portfolio diversification, we ask: how can believers honour God with their money in a world of volatile markets and get-rich-quick temptations? Tune in to consider whether Bitcoin belongs in your financial stewardship.

Aug 14, 2025 • 7min
Geneva Meets BELA—Calvin's Take on Our Education (TARIF 215)
What can 16th-century Geneva teach 21st-century South Africa about education? As the controversial BELA Bill threatens to erode parental authority and promote secular ideologies, history offers a striking alternative. John Calvin’s Geneva Academy produced world-changing leaders through Christ-centered teaching, moral formation, and academic excellence—accessible to rich and poor alike. Could such a model reshape Africa’s future? And what role should parents and churches play in reclaiming education today? This episode examines Calvin’s principles, their relevance for our time, and why a mass exodus from secular schools may be essential for raising the next generation of godly leaders.

Aug 12, 2025 • 6min
Women’s Rugby? A Christian Perspective (TARIF 214)
Should Christian women take part in violent sports like rugby, boxing, or cage fighting? Does promoting these activities ignore the God-given design and purpose of women’s bodies and roles? In this thought-provoking article, we explore biblical, biological, and cultural reasons why certain sports may not be fitting for women—and why the push for “equality” in this arena may be doing more harm than good. From Africa’s sports headlines to timeless truths about men and women, this piece challenges modern assumptions and asks: what’s truly best for our daughters?

Aug 7, 2025 • 8min
The Surprising Scarcity of Self-Supporting Churches (TARIF 213)
Foreign aid has poured into Africa for decades, yet the continent remains the poorest. This mindset, unfortunately, has also trickled down to the church, with many congregations sustained by foreign donations. But is this really healthy for the local church?In this thought-provoking article, we delve into the surprising scarcity of self-supporting churches in Africa. We explore the "three-selfs" of church autonomy and challenge conventional thinking on what it means for a church to truly stand on its own.

Aug 5, 2025 • 6min
How to Evangelize Unbelievers Who Are Different From You (212)
How can we overcome these cultural gaps and truly connect? Discover why our evangelism might be missing the mark and what foundational truths must be emphasized to ensure a clear understanding of Christ. Tune in to understand how to bridge the divide and preach the gospel more effectively.

Jul 31, 2025 • 6min
The “Big Man Syndrome” in Today’s African Churches (TARIF 211)
The "Big Man Syndrome" plagues many African churches, where a single leader holds absolute control, making unquestioned decisions and stifling potential successors. When such a leader departs, the church often faces collapse. But does it have to be this way? Discover how successful leaders, like John MacArthur, model a different path—one of intentional mentorship and legacy building. How can today's church leaders ensure lasting health and impact beyond their tenure?