
Missionary Minds
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.
Latest episodes

Apr 10, 2025 • 6min
South Africa’s National Sin & Stain of Abortion (TARIF 183)
South Africa grapples with a grave issue: the scourge of abortion. This episode delves into the alarming statistics and moral implications of this national stain. What does it mean for a country where the majority claim Christianity? Explore these questions and more as we examine the spiritual and societal ramifications, drawing from scripture to develop a Biblical worldview

Apr 8, 2025 • 8min
Black Tax: How Christians Should Care for Ageing Parents (Part 5) (TARIF 182)
The "Black Tax" weighs heavily on many Africans. How should Christians care for ageing parents? Is financial support the only way to honour them? What if you can't afford it, or your parents were absent? Does the Bible offer guidance on old age homes or supporting extended family?

Apr 3, 2025 • 6min
Literacy, Reading, and Missions (TARIF 181)
What happens to a church when its members are not literate? How can a faith grow and spread without a focus on written words? In today's episode, we explore the critical link between literacy and missions, especially in rural Africa. We'll consider the challenges of low literacy rates, historical influences, and the surprising opposition to reading. Is lack of reading simply a practical issue, or could there be something more spiritual at play? Tune in to find out.

Apr 1, 2025 • 8min
South Africa’s Sovereignty: Rage or Repentance? (TARIF 180)
Is South Africa’s stance on sovereignty a righteous defense or a defiant rage? In today’s TARIF episode, we delve into the biblical mandate for government, questioning whether current alliances align with divine justice. Should nations prioritize economic benefits over moral principles? How do internal policies like land expropriation and corruption impact a nation’s standing? As South Africa navigates BRICS and international relations, will it reap peace or hardship?

Mar 27, 2025 • 7min
African Media: The Flight From Truth (TARIF 179)
Is truth in the eye of the beholder? Why do we cling to convenient interpretations over hard facts? South Africa finds itself in the international spotlight, facing accusations of land expropriation and mistreatment. But are these accusations rooted in reality, or are they driven by political agendas? Why is there such a stark divide in understanding the same information? Join us as we delve into the complexities of truth and perception, and explore why people might choose to flee from reality.

Mar 25, 2025 • 6min
Black Tax: How Christians Should Care for Ageing Parents (Part 4) (TARIF 178)
Ever felt the weight of the "black tax"? What does the Bible say about supporting ageing parents? Is it the children's duty to provide financially, or the parents'? What if cultural expectations clash with personal finances? Join us as we explore the complex dynamics of family obligations, financial support, and honouring parents through a Christian lens. We'll unpack the biblical perspective on providing for loved ones, considering emotional, physical, and financial needs.

Mar 20, 2025 • 6min
Money Games in the Church (TARIF 177)
In this episode of TARIF, we delve into a controversial event: What happens when a religious leader offers a million-dollar challenge? Are such spectacles signs of spiritual health, or something more troubling? The focus of the church only gets derailed when preachers do not stick to the Bible.

Mar 18, 2025 • 6min
Black Tax: How Christians Should Care for Ageing Parents (Part 3) (TARIF 176)
In today's episode, we delve into the complexities of caring for ageing parents, especially within the context of "Black Tax." Why does South Africa have such a low retirement age despite its economic challenges? How should Christians navigate the physical decline of their parents? Are nursing homes always the answer? And what are the four critical errors to avoid when caring for elderly parents? Join us as we explore these questions and more, uncovering biblical wisdom for honoring our parents in their later years.

Mar 14, 2025 • 28min
MM 112: Should You Pray Using the Names of God?
How should we approach God in prayer?

Mar 13, 2025 • 8min
The Tyranny of Titles—What to Call Your Pastor (TARIF 175)
Are ministerial titles truly honoring to God, or do they feed human pride? In today's episode of The Africa Review in Five, we explore the "Tyranny of Titles" and what Jesus really meant about calling no man "father" or "teacher." Is it wrong to use any titles at all? What does the Bible say about spiritual leadership and authority? Join us as we question the culture of titles and consider what truly brings glory to God. Is your pastor a servant, or something more?