We are called to make disciples of all nations, but what is the biblical definition of a nation?

Alex and Scott explore the complex question of what defines a "nation" and why it matters for missions. They discuss the popular idea that America is merely "an idea," challenging this reductionist view by highlighting that a nation is more than shared values; it also includes shared language, ethnicity, culture, religion, and self-conception as a unified whole.

Drawing heavily on the biblical texts, they emphasize that God's plan involves not only individuals but distinct nations and people groups worshiping Him. Understanding what constitutes a nation shapes how Christians think about the Great Commission and the ultimate goal of reaching all peoples with the gospel.

• The definition and components of a nation (language, ethnicity, culture, religion, land, and self-conception)
• Challenges to the idea that America is purely an "idea"
• The biblical vision of nations in the Great Commission and in Revelation
• The globalizing impulse in Christianity and its implications for mission strategy
• The theological dangers of tribalism and radical globalism

Interview with Vishal Mangalwadi that was referenced in the episode.

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Are you feeling called to the mission field, but don't know where to start? ABWE's 24-Hour DEMO is for those that are seeking opportunities and direction on how they can help fulfill the Great Commission. Find your role in global missions at demo.abwe.org.

How can the mundane of motherhood be extraordinary?

Alex and Scott talk with Simona Gorton, an author, wife, and mother deeply engaged in local church ministry and missions. Drawing on her experiences with 9Marks and her work translating resources into over 60 languages, she emphasizes the importance of the local church as a training ground and the value of serving where God has placed you, even in seemingly ordinary roles.

Simona also discusses her book Mothering Against Futility, which explores Ecclesiastes and the tension between the mundane and the eternal. She challenges mothers and young women to embrace the daily, unseen work as meaningful in the Kingdom of Heaven, connecting everyday tasks to God's eternal purposes.

• The theological foundation of motherhood and everyday tasks
• Lessons from Ecclesiastes on finding meaning amid daily repetition
• Advice to young women considering missions: start with local service
• Encouragement for churches to affirm and support women and mothers in their roles
• Practical ways to disciple children to value godly character over recognition

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What are the implications if missionaries don't know their theology?

Alex and Scott tackle the essential question of whether every missionary should also be a theologian. Drawing from personal experiences and their work with ABWE, they emphasize that missionaries often find themselves as the primary or sole theological resource in pioneer settings. This reality necessitates a strong foundation in theology, even for those not serving in overt teaching roles.

The discussion also explores the challenges missionaries face in cross-cultural theological communication, including the lack of access to theological resources in native languages, differing worldviews, the prevalence of insider movements, and syncretism.

• The importance of theology in missions work and why every missionary must be a theologian
• Real-world implications of inadequate theological preparation in cross-cultural settings
• The influence of Greco-Roman thought on Western Christianity and its impact on theological expression
• Use of systematic theology and story-based biblical teaching to bridge cultural gaps
• The need for deeper engagement with doctrine to counter heresy and build resilient churches

Download the transcript for this episode.

God has already called many people to the mission field, but they need your support to get there. Help someone in Prefield get to where God is calling them by prayerfully supporting their ministry at abwe.org/Prefield.

Do you love The Missions Podcast? Have you been blessed by the show? Then become a Premium Subscriber!

Premium Subscribers get access to:

• Exclusive bonus content
• A community Signal thread with other listeners and the hosts
• Invite-only webinars
• A free gift!

Support The Missions Podcast and sign up to be a Premium Subscriber at missionspodcast.com/premium

The Missions Podcast is powered by ABWE. Learn more and take your next step in the Great Commission at abwe.org.

Want to ask a question or suggest a topic? Email alex@missionspodcast.com.