
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

Feb 6, 2025 • 7min
Is Witchcraft Real? (TARIF 169)
Do you believe in witchcraft? In this episode of The Africa Review, we discuss a reporter's interview with a witch doctor about a recent murder and the dark arts. We'll explore the witch doctor's views on bewitching and its effects on men. We'll also examine the similarities between witchcraft and Christianity, and how demons play a role. What are the spiritual implications of witchcraft? Is there hope for those caught in its web? Listen to this episode to find out!

Feb 4, 2025 • 6min
Six Ways to Shame Your Mother (TARIF 168)
What does the Bible say about the best and worst places to be a mom? Hint: It's not about socialized healthcare or paid parental leave. This episode explores the six ways children bring shame to their mothers according to the Bible and what they can do instead to bring honor. This episode also touches on the consequences of disobedience and disrespect in Biblical times and how they relate to modern parenting and family dynamics.

Jan 31, 2025 • 35min
MM 106: Excuses People Give for Not Doing Family Worship
We're all guilty of coming up with different excuses when it comes to getting important things done. Sadly, those excuses have serious ramifications when they apply to our spiritual lives. Here are a couple of excuses people like to give for not doing family worship in their homes. Have you ever used one of these?

Jan 28, 2025 • 7min
Are ‘Points of Contact’ Biblical? (TARIF 167)
Have you ever heard of "points of contact"? It's a prosperity gospel tactic that some pastors use to connect faith with God. Pastor Mboro recently made headlines for using his congregants' undergarments as "points of contact" to bless their reproductive organs. But is this biblical?
This episode of The Africa Review in Five explores the biblical basis (or lack thereof) for points of contact.

Jan 23, 2025 • 11min
Are Same-Sex Desires Sinful? (TARIF 166)
Storms are brewing in the African church over homosexuality. Scripture condemns homosexuality, but is it the act or the desire that is sinful? We'll unpack Romans 1:26-28 and answer questions like, "Can someone be gay and celibate?" and "What is the difference between observing beauty and experiencing romantic attraction?" Find out in today's episode of The Africa Review in Five.

Jan 21, 2025 • 8min
From Kings to Courts: Does the Bible Support Any Government System? (TARIF 165)
Is there such a thing as a Biblical blueprint for good government? What does God's Word say about the role of authority, and how should it be wielded? From protecting citizens to promoting education and religious freedom, this episode dives deep into Scripture to explore what makes a government truly just. We'll tackle tough questions about corruption, power balances, and the ultimate government that awaits us. Can human systems ever align with divine ideals? Join us as we seek answers from a Christian perspective.

Jan 20, 2025 • 31min
MM 105 : Why It's Important for Missionaries to Learn the Language
For ages, missionaries have had to cross-cultural barriers. Few things on the journey are as difficult as learning a new language to reach the people one is trying to minister. In this episode of Missionary Minds, Paul Schlehlein helps us understand the importance of learning a language by outlining the key reasons why it is so difficult.

Jan 17, 2025 • 25min
MM 104 - What is The Directory for Family Worship
Many families struggle to gather around God's Word together and enjoy a time of singing, prayer, and encouragement. This discussion of the Directory for Family Worship helps to re-emphasize the importance of regular family worship in the home.

Jan 16, 2025 • 8min
Symptoms and Treatment of Political Idolatry (TARIF 164)
Have you ever defended a politician as if they were a saint? Or maybe you only associate with people who share your political views? In this episode of The Africa Review in Five, we explore the subtle sin of political idolatry. Discover how putting politics above God can creep into your life and what you can do about it. How do we navigate the upcoming elections while keeping God at the center? Listen to find out and share your experiences in the comments section!

Jan 14, 2025 • 7min
Did You Cross Over into the New Year? (TARIF 163)
Many African Christians prioritize "Crossover Services" to usher in a new year filled with blessings and prosperity. These services often involve declarations, decrees, and binding and loosing rituals. But what is the biblical basis for these practices? Do they align with God's word? In this episode of The Africa Review in Five, we explore the scriptural response to the popular crossover night phenomenon. We question the efficacy of overnight transformations and the pursuit of material wealth in the context of faith.