Those Who Serve The Lord

The harvest is plentiful, but the workers are few. There are people ready to come to faith, but there aren't people who are willing to open up their homes, be vulnerable, and live an authentic life of faith in front of them. Are you? Travis and Nik delve into ministering in our modern culture are not often as hard as we make it. It is rather simple but requires a certain degree of time and vulnerability. They discuss households coming to faith, the lost (but certainly re-discoverable) art of hospitality, listening to people, and more importantly to the Lord. They also talk about the church wherever it is and rediscovering the burden of Jesus being known in parts of the world where He is not yet known. This episode is filled with laughter, insight, heartbreak, hope, and practical tools to help you so that you can fulfill Christ's mission for your life. Learn more about Nik Ripken Ministries, the book, and the movie. Sign up for the Apollos Watered newsletter.Help support the ministry of Apollos Watered and transform your world today!

Travis & Nik continue their conversation with the persecuted church and our contemporary witness in the West. Nik shows us that it's at the point of witness that we identify with the persecuted or the persecutor. If we witness, we may well be persecuted, if we do not witness, we may never suffer. They also discuss modern western Christians' lack of desire to send children to the mission field, and how pagan parents bless their children who desire to be missionaries more than believing parents. Additionally, they discuss Black Hawk Down, snow-plow parenting, modern-day Judas's, identifying with brothers and sisters in chains, suffering for your faith, and the need to change the flow of the river of current western ministry perspectives. Learn more about Nik Ripken Ministries, the book, and the movie. Sign up for the Apollos Watered newsletter.Help support the ministry of Apollos Watered and transform your world today!Travis Michael Fleming and Nik Ripken engage in a profound exploration of the concept of Christian witness, particularly in the context of persecution, as delineated in Ripken's own experiences across various hostile regions. The discussion underscores the assertion that the act of witnessing is inherently tied to the potential for persecution; those who choose to remain silent about their faith significantly reduce their likelihood of facing adversity. This key point serves as a foundational premise for the dialogue, emphasizing the necessity of an active witness in the life of a believer.Fleming and Ripken navigate through the dichotomy between the ease of practicing faith in Western societies and the harsh realities that many Christians endure in oppressive regimes. They present compelling narratives that illuminate the courage of believers who, despite suffering severe consequences, continue to proclaim their faith. These stories are not merely cautionary tales but serve as powerful reminders of the strength and resilience found in the global Church, particularly among those who face persecution.The episode also invites listeners to reflect on their own practices of faith-sharing, challenging the complacency that can arise in environments of relative freedom. Ripken's emphasis on the need for an active witness resonates as a call to action for Christians, urging them to leverage their freedom to proclaim the Gospel boldly. Ultimately, the conversation is a stirring reminder of the responsibilities that come with faith, encouraging believers to embody the message of Christ in their communities and to honor those who have suffered for their convictions.Takeaways: The essence of persecution is often determined by one's willingness to witness for Christ, reflecting a profound challenge to our faith. To share one's faith openly is to invite potential suffering, yet it is through this very act that the authenticity of faith is tested and revealed. The testimonies of persecuted Christians provide invaluable lessons on resilience and the unwavering commitment to witness amidst adversity. Understanding the experiences of believers in oppressive regimes can deepen our appreciation for the freedoms we possess in the West, and compel us to act accordingly. The narrative emphasizes that maintaining silence about one's faith may result in a lack of suffering, but it also stifles the transformative potential of the Gospel. Persecuted Christians often view their suffering as an integral aspect of their faith journey, illustrating that true discipleship involves both sacrifice and witness.

Is the blood of the martyrs really the seed of the church? Join Travis and special guest Nik Ripken as they talk about all things Kentucky, family, the persecuted church, and Nik's book, The Insanity of Obedience. Growing up in Kentucky, obeying Christ's call to go to the nations, Nik & Ruth Ripken went to Malawi, South Africa, and Kenya. Sensing God's call to work among the Somalians, they did-and found themselves facing unfiltered evil, unimaginable family pain, and friends' martyrdom. They discovered lessons of faith from brothers and sisters in persecution that challenge, encourage, and inspire us. This is a must-listen!Learn more about Nik Ripken Ministries, the book, and the movie. Sign up for the Apollos Watered newsletter.Help support the ministry of Apollos Watered and transform your world today!

In this engaging discussion, Mike Goheen, a missiology expert from The Missional Training Center, shares his insights on reintroducing Christianity to a consumer-driven West. He emphasizes the Bible as the true narrative of the world, advocating for a more profound biblical storytelling approach. Mike explores the vital role of lament in faith and the need for theological education that prepares leaders for modern challenges. He also discusses the interplay between faith and nationalism, urging Western Christians to adopt a global perspective and revitalizing family faith practices.

Mike Goheen, the Director of Theological Education at the Missional Training Center, shares his insights on reintroducing Christianity in the West. He discusses the stark contrast in how cultures respond to the Gospel, exploring why Americans often tune out faith conversations. Goheen analyzes the Enlightenment's impact on Western Christianity and highlights the need for a cohesive understanding of the biblical narrative in our individualistic society. Tune in for a deep discussion that will challenge and inspire your view on modern faith.

What is happening with Apollos Watered?! Some incredible stuff that can help you water your world! Who do you want to hear from? What do you want us to talk about? What is a resource that can help in your walk with God? And is there a way to get some of those resources at a discounted price? Yes! Travis & Kevin, the original tag team duo crazy enough to do this thing, sit down to discuss all that God has done over the past year and what we have planned in the year ahead to help you so that you can water your world. Listen in and hear about our journey, how God brought it into existence, what we value, where we are headed, and how you can be part of it! We have big news! The New Living Translation is now the official translation of Apollos Watered! Check out Kevin's article Understanding the Bible Changes Everything. This is an exciting partnership that is meant to help you grow to become more like Jesus! As always, thanks for listening! You are our heroes! Please keep the hero thing going by giving us a great review and be sure to share it with others! Sign up for the Apollos Watered newsletter.Help support the ministry of Apollos Watered and transform your world today!

Join Travis for the second part of his Deep Conversation with Audrey Frank. Travis and Audrey discuss shame and the shame bearers in Muslim society...women. What does that mean? What does it mean to the women of Afghanistan in light of recent events? What does our modern cancel culture have to do with ancient concepts of shame? Everything! Listen in and discover shame, shame bearers, and the One who takes our shame away. Check out the first part: #64 | Finding Hope, Shedding Shame, Pt. 1 | Audrey FrankLearn more about shame: #34 | Rediscovering Hospitality: A Lesson from Eastern Cultures | Jayson Georges#69 | The Insanity of God, Pt. 1 | Nik Ripken#70 | The Insanity of God, Pt. 2 | Nik Ripken#71 | The Insanity of God, Pt. 3 | Nik Ripken#112 | Truth, Trauma, and Transformation, Pt. 1 | Jami Staples#113 | Truth, Trauma, and Transformation, Pt. 2 | Jami Staples#117 | Defending Shame, Pt. 1 | Te-Li Lau#118 | Defending Shame, Pt. 2 | Te-Li LauBe sure to check her out and get her book, Covered Glory. Sign up for the Apollos Watered newsletter.Help support the ministry of Apollos Watered and transform your world today!The dialogue between Travis Michael Fleming and Audrey Frank delves into the profound and often underexplored concepts of honor and shame, particularly as they pertain to contemporary culture, including the pervasive phenomenon of cancel culture. Throughout their discussion, they illuminate how these ancient constructs are not merely relics of the past but are intricately woven into the fabric of modern societal interactions and expectations. The conversation reveals that while we may perceive shame as an archaic notion, its manifestations are prevalent in today’s world, influencing behaviors, relationships, and even the very discourse surrounding faith and identity. Audrey Frank articulates compelling narratives, drawing from her experiences and observations within various cultural contexts, particularly the honor-shame dynamics prevalent in many societies globally. She challenges the Western-centric view that often regards shame as solely negative, by emphasizing that it can serve as a mechanism for accountability and moral reflection. The interview further posits that understanding these cultural frameworks can enhance our comprehension of the Gospel message, particularly in its capacity to offer redemption and restore dignity to those burdened by shame. This thematic exploration not only resonates with individuals from honor-shame backgrounds but also invites listeners to reflect on their own cultural narratives and the ways in which they may inadvertently perpetuate cycles of shame in their communities.Moreover, the conversation underscores the importance of recognizing the spiritual implications of shame and honor within the context of Christian faith. Travis and Audrey assert that the Gospel speaks profoundly to these issues, presenting Jesus as the ultimate redeemer who transforms shame into honor. This exploration serves as a clarion call for believers to engage meaningfully with those who may feel marginalized or shamed, advocating for an understanding that transcends mere doctrinal discussions, and instead fosters genuine empathy and connection. In summary, this episode serves as a rich tapestry of insights that challenge listeners to reevaluate their perspectives on shame and honor in a world that increasingly grapples with these timeless themes.Takeaways: The ancient concept of shame significantly influences modern societal issues, including cancel culture, which is discussed extensively in the podcast. Travis Michael Fleming and Audrey Frank delve into the dynamics of honor and shame across various cultures, highlighting its relevance beyond just Islamic contexts. The conversation emphasizes that understanding the intersection of faith and cultural dynamics is crucial for effective discipleship in today's world. Audrey shares poignant stories from her experiences that illustrate how Christ can transform the notion of shame into honor for individuals from diverse backgrounds. The podcast argues that the principles of honor and shame are inherently present in many cultures, urging listeners to reconsider their perspectives on these concepts. Listeners are encouraged to engage with the Bible through the lens of honor and shame to better understand its implications for their faith and relationships.

Join Travis as he has a deep conversation w/true storyteller Audrey Frank. She is a daughter of God, wife, mother, friend, poet, and true storyteller. She is a voice giver to those who have been silenced by shame. She is a storyteller guide who leads us through the art gallery of God's grace decorated with God’s great masterpieces—created in the lives of people around the world who have been given honor instead of shame, gladness instead of mourning, and hope instead of despair.Audrey has a degree in intercultural studies and theology and more than 25 years of experience living among different world views, but her greatest credential is that her picture hangs in His gallery, streaked with the contrasts of deepest darks and brightest lights. This is a conversation of heart, laughter, conviction, and above all, true and lasting hope for all who listen. Check out the second part: #65 | Finding Hope, Shedding Shame, Pt. 1 | Audrey FrankLearn more about shame: #34 | Rediscovering Hospitality: A Lesson from Eastern Cultures | Jayson Georges#69 | The Insanity of God, Pt. 1 | Nik Ripken#70 | The Insanity of God, Pt. 2 | Nik Ripken#71 | The Insanity of God, Pt. 3 | Nik Ripken#112 | Truth, Trauma, and Transformation, Pt. 1 | Jami Staples#113 | Truth, Trauma, and Transformation, Pt. 2 | Jami Staples#117 | Defending Shame, Pt. 1 | Te-Li Lau#118 | Defending Shame, Pt. 2 | Te-Li LauLearn more about her.You can purchase her book, Covered Glory. Learn more about the Truth Collective. Sign up for the Apollos Watered newsletter.Help support the ministry of Apollos Watered and transform your world today!The discourse between Travis Michael Fleming and Audrey Frank embarks upon a profound exploration of the nuanced distinctions between guilt and shame, pivotal themes that resonate deeply within the human experience. As they delve into the essence of these emotions, Audrey, a seasoned expert in the realms of honor and shame, elucidates how these feelings manifest differently across various cultures, particularly within collectivist societies. She argues that guilt is often perceived as a behavioral issue, one that can be addressed through actions and reparations, while shame is an identity crisis, where the individual internalizes a sense of worthlessness. This dichotomy is critical for understanding not only personal struggles but also the broader societal implications these emotions have in shaping human interactions and relationships.The conversation further illuminates the practical implications of these concepts, particularly in the context of Christian faith. Audrey emphasizes the significance of recognizing one’s identity in Christ, which transcends the debilitating effects of shame. Through compelling anecdotes and her own life experiences, she demonstrates how the transformative power of the Gospel offers a path to redemption and honor, challenging listeners to reconsider their perceptions of worth and dignity. The episode serves as a clarion call for individuals to seek liberation from the chains of shame, fostering a deeper understanding of their intrinsic value as beloved creations of God.In the latter part of the discussion, the duo touches on the cultural ramifications of honor and shame, particularly within the Muslim community. Audrey shares stories of women who have found their voices amidst oppressive paradigms of shame, highlighting the vital need for compassion and understanding in cross-cultural interactions. The episode underscores the importance of dialogue and education in bridging the gaps between differing worldviews, ultimately advocating for a message of hope and healing that resonates across cultural boundaries. This engaging exchange not only enriches the listener's understanding of guilt and shame but also inspires a movement towards dignity, honor, and the radical grace found in the teachings of Christ.Takeaways: The distinction between guilt and shame is crucial for understanding personal identity and healing. Audrey Frank emphasizes the importance of recognizing honor and shame in various cultural contexts. The podcast explores how understanding guilt and shame can lead to freedom in Christ. Shame often silences individuals, while understanding one's identity can restore their voice. The conversation highlights the significance of storytelling in conveying theological truths. Audrey's personal journey illustrates the transformative power of God's grace in overcoming shame.

What makes someone a follower of Jesus? Can you identify the characteristics? How can you identify a Jesus' follower? What is your test? Is it because they say they are? Can someone claim to be a Christ-follower and not be a Christian? What if they are baptized? What about those who look and sound like Jesus' followers, but upon further inspection, we can see that they are simply trying to use God to get what they want? Join Travis as he walks through one of the most difficult passages in all of Scripture (Acts 8:9-25) and shows us what a true Christ-follower looks like and what God really wants from us. Happy listening! Sign up for the Apollos Watered newsletter.Help support the ministry of Apollos Watered and transform your world today!

The Chosen has taken the world by storm. It enables us to see things from the perspective of those who knew Him. We can find ourselves in the story and see how their stories make sense. Dallas has tapped into our imagination and desire to see and know more. How did they start to follow Jesus? What was it about Him that would make them follow when He gave the invitation? Dallas has created a world that is not far removed but is close up. What is it that draws us in? What is special about it? How is God using it? What are the critics saying? Join Travis as he speaks with Dallas Jenkins about The Chosen and how he crafted it the way that he did. Listen in as they talk about why people love it, the challenge of expanding on the greatest story ever known, the criticisms that come, and Dallas superpower! Happy listening! Check out The Chosen.Change your world (and make your family proud!) by supporting the ministry of Apollos Watered.