

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

Jul 10, 2025 • 7min
Reading the ANC’s ‘Bible’: A Christian Response to the Freedom Charter (TARIF 206)
On its 70th anniversary, the Freedom Charter is still hailed by many as South Africa's "Bible" for liberation. But how does this influential document stand up to Christian scrutiny? And what does God truly desire for the political future of South Africa, or any nation?

Jul 8, 2025 • 7min
Marriage Thoughts on Polygamy, Virginity, and HIV Tests (TARIF 205)
Feminism, the Prosperity Gospel, and Westernization have significantly impacted African homes, leading to a four-fold theme: women prioritizing careers, grandmothers raising children, absent fathers, and children born before marriage. This episode challenges these trends by analyzing a recent mass wedding in South Africa.What five crucial marks should Christians embrace for a God-blessed marriage in Africa? Can traditional African culture and biblical principles truly align? Tune in to discover the answers and transform your perspective on marriage!

Jul 3, 2025 • 7min
Four Principles for Overcoming Prejudice and Racism (TARIF 204)
In a world quick to label any disagreement as "bigotry," how can we truly understand and overcome prejudice and racism? This episode of The Africa Review in Five, "Four Principles for Overcoming Prejudice and Racism," dives into critical biblical truths to help define these sinful behaviors. Should we treat everyone the same, or is there a godly way to navigate favouritism? Let's explore principles for honouring God in our relationships and interactions, without revealing all the answers. Don't miss this thought-provoking discussion!

Jul 1, 2025 • 7min
The Mess of Minimum Wage (Part 2) (TARIF 203)
South Africa faces one of the world's highest unemployment rates, a persistent challenge demanding urgent solutions. In "The Mess of Minimum Wage (Part 2)," we dive into how Minimum Wage Laws (MWLs) might be a major contributor to this joblessness. Do these laws truly help workers, or do they inadvertently price people out of jobs, leading to increased automation and fewer opportunities? We explore common arguments for MWLs and uncover the unforeseen consequences that impact entire communities.

Jun 30, 2025 • 36min
MM 117 - What Makes a Good Missionary Wife?
The mission field can bring unique challenges for the missionary. To make a lasting impact for the Lord a man needs a wife suited to the call. What does such a wife look like?

Jun 26, 2025 • 37min
MM 116: Finding a Wife—A Checklist
Ditch the dating app swiping and get ready for a game-changing perspective on finding your future wife! This isn't your average "how-to." Based on 1 Peter 3:1-4, we're diving deep into a powerful checklist that focuses on what truly matters. Discover the "Roots" of conversion – is she a real Christian with a clear testimony and strong church involvement? Unpack the "Branches" of character, exploring submission, fear of God, purity, and that gentle, quiet spirit. And yes, even "Clothing" makes the list – think modesty, humility, and frugality! Plus, we turn the mirror on you with crucial action points like praying and preparing yourself. Tune in to transform your search for a godly lady!

Jun 26, 2025 • 8min
Wokeism: When the Cure Is Worse Than the Disease (TARIF 202)
In a world where solutions often bring more problems, some American ideologies have found their way to Africa, promising cures but delivering deeper ailments. From the Prosperity gospel's financial illusions to Wokeism's divisive anti-racism, are we truly addressing the root causes of suffering, or are we just worsening the disease?

Jun 19, 2025 • 6min
Independence—A Call for African Churches to Support African Missions (TARIF 201)
Is Africa truly independent? Dive into this episode of The Africa Review in Five as we explore the complex relationship between African nations, foreign aid, and the call for self-reliance. We delve into the intriguing case of Zimbabwe and examine why, despite calls for decolonization, dependence on Western aid persists. This episode also challenges African churches, asking: Are they financially independent, or are they also relying on external support?

Jun 17, 2025 • 5min
The Mess of Minimum Wage (Part 1) (TARIF 200)
Are minimum wage laws really the answer to economic fairness? In this episode, we dive into "The Mess of Minimum Wage (Part 1)," exploring the complexities behind government-mandated wages. From Luxembourg to South Africa, wage regulations vary wildly, but do they truly protect the poor? Or could these well-intentioned laws actually be doing more harm than good? Join us as we question the common assumptions and begin to uncover the surprising truths about who really determines the value of our labor.

Jun 13, 2025 • 30min
MM 115: How to Make Big Decisions in Marriage
Making decisions in marriage can be hard. Some people do it thoughtlessly and others bulldoze through it. Listen to this episode to learn how to make good decisions in marriage.


