

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

Sep 18, 2025 • 6min
Modesty: A Lost Virtue (TARIF 223)
Summer brings sunshine—and with it, an uncomfortable question for Christians: how should we respond to the rising tide of public immodesty? From Hollywood’s influence to shifting fashion trends, the church is increasingly reflecting the world instead of standing apart from it. But is modesty really just about clothing, or is it first a matter of the heart? And what happens when church leaders stay silent for fear of losing members or being labelled judgmental? This episode wrestles with Scripture’s teaching on modesty, its impact on discipleship, and why holiness—not cultural trends—must define the people of God.

Sep 16, 2025 • 7min
A Practical Way to Find a Mission Field (TARIF 222)
How does a Christian know if he’s truly called to missions—and once called, how does he decide where to go? In past centuries, the options were limited and often chosen by circumstance, but today the opportunities seem overwhelming. Should a missionary simply follow desire, or are there clearer biblical marks of calling? And with thousands of unreached people groups worldwide, how can one wisely narrow the field? This episode explores the essential questions every aspiring missionary must ask and offers a framework for discerning both calling and location in light of Scripture, history, and global need.

Sep 11, 2025 • 6min
Free Speech and the Murder of Charlie Kirk (TARIF 221)
The shocking assassination of Christian activist Charlie Kirk has left the world reeling. At just 31 years old, with a young family and a powerful voice for truth, his life was cut short on live television. Why would God allow such a tragedy? What lessons can we draw from a man so devoted to free speech, faith, and biblical convictions? This episode reflects on the brevity of life, the cost of courage, and the Christian roots of freedom of speech.

Sep 9, 2025 • 7min
What’s True About the Blood Moon? (TARIF 220)
A fiery blood moon lit up the skies this past Sunday—stirring wonder, fear, and even superstition across the world. Should such celestial events lead us to worship the Creator or worry about impending doom? Are blood moons truly apocalyptic signs, or simply reminders of God’s order in creation? From Hindu temples closing their doors to Christians speculating about judgment, reactions vary widely. But what does Scripture actually say about eclipses and the natural world? And how should believers view science, nature, and the majesty of the cosmos through a biblical lens?

Sep 2, 2025 • 8min
The Sin of African Time (TARIF 219)
Is lateness just “African culture,” or is it a deeper moral issue? While many defend “African time” as valuing people over tasks, Scripture calls Christians to treat time as a precious gift from God. If tardiness is stealing, lying, and un-Christlike, what does that say about cultures that normalize it? And what can believers do to break free from this destructive habit? This episode challenges the excuses we make for lateness, traces the roots of punctuality to a Christian worldview, and offers practical ways to honour God—and others—by being on time.

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.


