Those Who Serve The Lord

Have you ever felt stuck? Like you can't go anywhere. You can't make progress, you can't go back, and you just are stuck where you are? Sometimes we need to tap into our imaginations as Jesus did. The imagination is a powerful tool-from running scared through potential hazards or leading us into a world of dreams, our imaginations can be used for good or for ill. But what does it look like to cultivate a truly Christian imagination? Malcolm has an idea! Malcolm is an English poet, songwriter, Anglican priest, and recently retired professor from Cambridge. He is truly one of a kind-cross John Donne, Jerry Garcia, and put him on the back of a Harley while dressed like Bilbo Baggins and you have your man. In fact, his poem Refugee was requested by King Charles to be read at the Christmas Royal Carol Service.Malcolm joins Apollos Watered to talk about how Jesus baptizes our imagination the moment we come to Him, helping us to cultivate an artistic, moral, and prophetic imagination in a world that desperately needs leaders to move beyond the status quo. It's insightful, informative, and fun :-)Get his books.Check out his very entertaining YouTube channel.Sign up for the Apollos Watered newsletter.Help water-thirsty souls by partnering with Apollos Watered! Takeaways: The conversation delves into the profound significance of imagination in the Christian faith, emphasizing its role in enriching our understanding of God's creation and our relationship with Him. Travis Michael Fleming and Malcolm Guite explore how imagination transcends mere fantasy, allowing us to engage with deeper truths found in literature, art, and personal experiences of faith. Malcolm Guite shares his transformative encounter with the holy presence of God, illustrating how such moments can radically alter one's perception of existence and dependence on the divine. The discussion highlights the necessity of cultivating our imaginative faculties, which serve as a means to connect with the sacred and navigate the complexities of modern life. Guite articulates the notion that imagination is not a frivolous endeavor but rather a crucial aspect of spiritual life that can lead to a renewed understanding of faith and existence. Through the lens of poetry and literary exploration, the speakers argue that imagination can illuminate profound truths, inviting individuals to perceive the world in a more meaningful and interconnected way.

Dr. Allen Yeh joins Travis Michael Fleming to explore the concept of Polycentric Missiology, emphasizing that the center of Christianity has shifted from the West to the majority world. This transformation highlights how 78% of today's missionaries come from non-Western countries, showcasing the diverse and global nature of faith. As they discuss the historical roots and implications of this shift, they reflect on the richness of theological perspectives that arise from different cultures. Dr. Yeh argues that understanding these diverse viewpoints is essential for a more holistic view of God and His mission. The conversation encourages listeners to engage with global voices in Christianity, recognizing that true discipleship involves learning from one another across cultural boundaries.What is the center of Christianity? Is there one? Which continent got the gospel first? How did the Gospel spread around the world? What does it mean to be "ecumenical"? Who is considered the father of modern missions? What does it mean to be on mission? What does it mean to work together for the gospel? What is the difference between evangelism and discipleship? How do we go about "doing" theology? What does it mean to "do" theology? And how is mission the mother of theology? These are just SOME of the questions that we try to answer on today's show as Travis welcomes Allen Yeh!Allen is a missiologist who specializes in Latin America and China. He is a professor of intercultural studies at the Cook School for Intercultural Studies. He has diverse interests in history, classical music, homiletics, justice, the California missions, the Maya, and biographical interest in Jonathan Edwards (America's greatest theologian) and Adoniram Judson (America's first intercontinental missionary). He serves on the Board of Trustees for the Foundation for Theological Education in Southeast Asia. He earned his B.A. from Yale, M.Div. from Gordon-Conwell, M.Th. from Edinburgh, and D.Phil. from Oxford. Allen has been to over 60 countries on every continent, to study, do missions work, and experience the culture. He is joyfully married to Arianna Molloy, a professor in Biola's Communication Studies Department.This is a fun and challenging conversation that is going to enlighten and challenge you in what you know about how mission has been done historically, how we do mission where we are today, and we go about doing theology in our crazy changing world. Takeaways: Christianity has been present in regions like India, Turkey, and Ethiopia since the first century, predating its arrival in Europe. The concept of polycentric missiology emphasizes that missions are now from everyone to everywhere, not just the West to the rest. William Carey's contributions to modern missions include establishing mission societies and emphasizing the Great Commission's importance for all believers. Nominalism, the idea of being a Christian in name only, poses a significant challenge to authentic discipleship today. Diversity within the body of Christ enhances our understanding of God, as different cultures provide unique perspectives. The shift in missionary efforts from the West to the Majority World reflects a significant change in global Christianity's landscape.Learn more about Allen.Get the book.Sign up for the Apollos Watered newsletter.Help water-thirsty souls by partnering with Apollos Watered!

Is God still in the miracle business? What do the miracles of Jesus in the New Testament tell us about who God is today? What has that to do with us? And what role does the empty tomb have in us understanding what God wants to do in the world today? Additionally, what role do miracles play in our lives? What happens if God doesn't bring a miracle? Guest Joby Martin has an idea!Joby is a man who has a passion for God and His Word. Born and bred in the South, he is a lover of Georgia Bulldogs football, bowhunting, C.S. Lewis, and one of the funniest guests we have ever had. He is the founder and lead pastor of The Church of Eleven22 in Jacksonville, Florida. Since launching the church in 2012, he has led a movement for all people to discover and deepen a relationship with Jesus Christ. In addition to providing The Church of Eleven22 with vision and leadership, Pastor Joby is a national and international preacher and teacher. He has been married to his wife, Gretchen, for over 20 years and they have a son, JP and a daughter, Reagan Capri.Learn more about Joby.Check out Church of Eleven22.Get Joby's book, Anything Is Possible.Sign up for the Apollos Watered newsletter.Help water-thirsty souls by partnering with Apollos Watered!

Travis and Chris continue their discussion in Chris' groundbreaking book, Biblical Critical Theory. In this episode, they discuss the Exodus, sin, and judgment, bringing the Bible to bear upon culture, technique, and God's amazing story that contains all other stories. Learn more about Chris.Get the book.Chris referred to a couple of other resources:Get Graeme Goldsworthy's book.Check out Nancy Guthrie's resources.Sign up for the Apollos Watered newsletter.Help water-thirsty souls by partnering with Apollos Watered! Takeaways: The podcast emphasizes the importance of understanding the cultural dichotomies that shape our worldview as Christians. Christopher Watkin's book, Biblical Critical Theory, critiques contemporary culture through a biblical lens, offering a deeper understanding of modern life. The conversation navigates the complexities of how Christians can engage with a culture that often views them as adversaries. Watkin argues that the Bible provides a more comprehensive narrative than any alternative cultural stories we may encounter. The hosts discuss the significance of sin and judgment in understanding both biblical teachings and contemporary societal issues. They highlight the necessity for Christians to adopt a biblical framework when addressing modern cultural challenges.

Travis welcomes Vishal Mangalwadi to the show. Vishal is India's foremost Christian intellectual. He is a social reformer, activist, author, and columnist whose writings and videos have been featured around the world. He has lectured in over 40 countries, written 17 books, and contributed to several others. He joined Travis to discuss his book, The Book That Made Your World, but quickly transitioned to discuss the Third Education Revelation. Out of all of our episodes, this is probably the most controversial and our longest episode to date. Rather than divide it into two we wanted to you to get the full idea of Vishal's proposal. Vishal maintains that Christians in North America have got the Great Commission wrong, and have actually harmed the faith as a result of it. His desire is to recover the full expression of the Great Commission and return to educating and catechizing the church, all the while removing ourselves from secular education. He makes some bold critiques and proposals that will frustrate, enrage, and make you think. Is he right? Is he wrong? Listen in and find out!Learn more about VishalLearn more about the Revelation Movement.Sign up for the Apollos Watered newsletter.Help water-thirsty souls by partnering with Apollos Watered!

Have you ever sat in a philosophy class and wondered, "How in the world does this fit within the Gospel?" or "How can I explain the Gospel when it has to answer all these questions?" If you have ever heard the names of Michel Foucault, Jacques Derrida, or Friedrich Nietzsche, then you know that they have a huge role in shaping the thought currents and structures in our world today. Thoughts shape lives and their work has given shape to terms we use every day: postmodernity, post-truth, deconstructionism, relativism, tolerance, etc. Their fingerprints are all over the contemporary thoughts spouted by universities, talk shows, celebrities, and podcasts. Rarely has anyone been able to show how the Bible answers such philosophical questions in a way that engaged believers can understand, but Chris Watkin has done just that with his book, Biblical Critical Theory.Travis and Chris discuss Chris' background, his faith, and Biblical Critical Theory. In this first part of their conversation, Chris lays the groundwork for the book, answers some contemporary objections, and helps us to see how great the Bible is in helping "out-narrate," our late modern world.This is a DEEP conversation and not for the faint of heart, but it is a conversation that will take you deeper into the heart of God, it will help you understand how people have come to view the modern world in which we live as well as shows us how the Bible is still the best story that explains every other story for our lives and how the world is. It's an incredible conversation!Learn more about Chris.Get the book.Sign up for the Apollos Watered newsletter.Help water-thirsty souls by partnering with Apollos Watered!Takeaways: Travis Michael Fleming and Chris Watkin explore the profound implications of Biblical Critical Theory and its relevance in contemporary society. The central thesis of Watkin's book posits that the Bible offers a coherent narrative that critiques modern philosophical movements. Watkin emphasizes the importance of understanding the Bible as a critical theory, which reveals deeper truths about human nature and society. The discussion highlights how the biblical narrative can out-narrate modern cultural narratives, providing a more comprehensive understanding of reality. Watkin articulates that the Bible's framework critiques contemporary societal norms, making invisible truths visible and valuable. The podcast underscores the necessity of integrating biblical insights into discussions of critical theory for a more robust cultural critique.

In this second part of our conversation with Trevin Wax, we continue discussing the subject of orthodoxy, denominational issues, how we can tell heresy, doctrinal drift, and how we live in this polarized era. It's a conversation sure to help you stand more confidently upon the Word of God and against error. Check out Trevin's blog at the Gospel Coalition or sign up to be on his email list.Follow Trevin on Twitter or get his books.Sign up for the Apollos Watered newsletter.Help support the ministry of Apollos Watered and transform your world today!Travis Michael Fleming and Trevin Wax engage in a profound dialogue regarding the contemporary challenges faced by the Christian community, particularly concerning the pervasive issue of spiritual nourishment. Fleming initiates the conversation with a striking metaphor, likening prevalent Christian teachings to unhealthy junk food, suggesting that many believers are consuming spiritually detrimental content that lacks depth and substance. He emphasizes the urgent need for a spiritual dietary overhaul, proposing that Christians should seek a more wholesome and enriching theological diet, one that fosters genuine growth in faith rather than superficial satisfaction. Throughout their discourse, Fleming and Wax delve into the nuances of orthodoxy, exploring the delicate balance between essential doctrines and secondary issues. They articulate the dangers of drifting from orthodox beliefs, particularly in an increasingly pluralistic society where the lines of truth are often blurred by cultural pressures and individual interpretations.As they navigate these complex themes, the duo reflects on the implications of cultural diversity within Christianity, examining how different ethnic backgrounds and political contexts influence theological perspectives. Wax elucidates the necessity of maintaining a clear distinction between orthodox beliefs and personal convictions, cautioning against conflating secondary issues with core tenets of faith. The dialogue encourages listeners to critically assess their spiritual diets, urging them to cultivate a robust understanding of orthodoxy while remaining vigilant against the allure of doctrinal drift. Ultimately, Fleming and Wax's conversation serves as a clarion call for Christians to pursue a deeper, more authentic engagement with the gospel, one that transcends mere intellectual assent and fosters a vibrant, life-giving faith that can effectively navigate the complexities of modern life.Takeaways: In contemporary Christianity, much of what is taught resembles unhealthy spiritual junk food, requiring discernment for a better diet. The conversation emphasizes the importance of recognizing and addressing heresy within the church, which is often overlooked in modern discourse. A robust understanding of orthodoxy is essential for maintaining the structural integrity of various Christian traditions amidst cultural shifts. The dialogue explores the dangers of prioritizing pragmatic approaches over doctrinal truths, leading to potential spiritual malnutrition in believers. It is crucial to differentiate between errors in theology and heresy, as many errors do not equate to denying fundamental truths of the faith. Engaging with diverse cultural expressions of faith while upholding essential doctrines serves to enrich the Christian community and its witness.

Travis welcomes Trevin Wax back to the show! Does orthodoxy matter anymore? Or is it only for theologians and academics to quibble over? What role does it play in the life of the everyday believer? Travis welcomes Trevin Wax back to the show as they delve into the subject of orthodoxy. Trevin shows us that rather than being a dry academic exercise, orthodoxy provides the lifeblood of truth and unity in the church that is essential for the church to carry forth its mission. However, there are always threats to orthodoxy and those threats demean not only theological truth but the very nature of who God is, His purposes, and our place within the world today. Check out Trevin's blog at the Gospel Coalition or sign up to be on his email list.Follow Trevin on Twitter or get his books.Sign up for the Apollos Watered newsletter.Help support the ministry of Apollos Watered and transform your world today!

On Good Friday there is so much to be said and so much not to be said. Take a moment to be quiet and reflect on what Jesus has done for you.Sign up for the Apollos Watered newsletter.Help support the ministry of Apollos Watered and transform your world today!

With so much going on in Holy Week it's easy to get a bit of compassion fatigue. Take a moment to relax, breathe, and connect with Jesus. Sign up for the Apollos Watered newsletter.Help support the ministry of Apollos Watered and transform your world today!