The Church Around the World

From Living Letters to the NLT: Mark Taylor on Gospel-Centered Leadership at Tyndale House

Tyndale House Publishers — Tue, 05 May 2026 16:26:06 -0500

What does it look like to lead a ministry organization for decades and never lose sight of the fact that it belongs to God? That question sits at the heart of this conversation with Mark Taylor.

Dan Ehrman and Tyndale House Foundation's Caroline Curry sit down with Mark Taylor — former President and CEO of Tyndale House Publishers and longtime Chairman of Tyndale House Ministries — for a rich conversation spanning six decades of gospel-centered leadership, Christian publishing history, and sacrificial generosity. Mark shares the story behind the founding of the New Living Translation Bible, Tyndale House Foundation's global grant-making, and the stewardship convictions that shaped his entire career.

Key takeaways for church leaders:

Stewardship over ownership — How Mark's father Ken Taylor modeled holding ministry resources with an open hand, and what that looks like in practice for pastors today
Generosity as a leadership discipline — Why Tyndale House Foundation has given away over $150 million and why that commitment must be built into organizational leadership from the start
Developing leaders patiently — The decade of formation Mark received before stepping into the CEO role, and why gradual leadership development matters in the local church

"Honor the Lord with your wealth and with the best part of everything you produce." — Proverbs 3:9 (NLT)

This episode is an encouragement for any pastor or ministry director navigating the tension between organizational success and faithful stewardship — and a reminder that God-honoring leadership leaves a legacy far beyond what any one generation can see.

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Is the NLT Just a Paraphrase? An NLT Scholar Sets the Record Straight.

Tyndale House Publishers — Tue, 21 Apr 2026 07:00:00 -0500

What does it actually take to translate the Bible — and is the New Living Translation really just a paraphrase? If you've ever heard that criticism, this conversation is for you.

In this episode of Church Around the World, Dan Ehrman sits down with Dr. Andrew Abernethy — professor of Old Testament and assistant dean at Wheaton College's Divinity School, and a member of the New Living Translation Bible committee — to pull back the curtain on the NLT translation process and what it means to make Scripture genuinely accessible without sacrificing accuracy.

Three takeaways for church leaders:

The NLT is not a paraphrase. It comes from a team of top evangelical scholars wrestling simultaneously with original-language accuracy and understandable English — a rigorous, two-stage process most readers never see.
Translation is always interpretation. From the word "redeemer" in Ruth to a contested phrase in Matthew 1, every translation choice involves asking: what would this have meant then, and how do we communicate that clearly today?
Scripture transforms whole families. Dr. Abernethy's own story — from a basketball family with no Bible background to an NLT committee member — is a reminder that God works powerfully through faithful engagement with His Word.

"Your word is a lamp to guide my feet and a light for my path." — Psalm 119:105 (NLT)

This episode is a rich resource for any pastor or ministry leader who wants to understand — and confidently recommend — the New Living Translation Bible to their congregation.

Learn more about Dr. Abernethy and the NLT:
Dr. Andrew Abernethy - Wheaton College
New Living Translation
NLT Scholars
God's Messiah in the Old Testament
Andrew Abernethy - LinkedIn

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Seen and Known: How By the Hand Club for Kids Is Forming the Next Generation

Tyndale House Publishers — Mon, 09 Mar 2026 19:00:00 -0500

What happens when the Church shows up—not just with programs, but with people—in the lives of children growing up in under-resourced neighborhoods?

This week, Dan is joined by guest co-host Caroline Curry (Development Specialist, Tyndale House Foundation) and two leaders from By the Hand Club for Kids: Peter Hanson, VP of Volunteer Development, and Stephen Fernandes, Chief Development Officer.

By the Hand Club for Kids has been walking alongside children in some of Chicago's most challenged communities for over two decades—offering not just after-school programming, but something rarer: the sustained presence of caring adults who refuse to let a child's zip code define their ceiling.

In this conversation, we explore:

Why diverse social connections matter enormously for kids growing up in geographic and economic isolation
The irreplaceable role of adult presence and attention in forming a child's sense of value and purpose—especially in our distracted, screen-saturated world
How By the Hand helps students see their own neighborhoods through the lens of God's abundance rather than human scarcity
What By the Hand's work says to the broader Church about what we truly value

Learn more about By the Hand Club for Kids:
By The Hand History and Stories
Giving to By The Hand
Volunteer Interest Form
ByTheHand.com
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LinkedIn

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Praying the Parables of Jesus for Lent

Tyndale House Publishers — Mon, 16 Feb 2026 18:00:00 -0600

In this episode, Dan Ehrman sits down with Steve Macchia and S.K. "Suz" Skinner to explore their new book, Praying the Parables of Jesus: A 40-Day Devotional Journey in Word and Image (NavPress/Tyndale). Steve is the founder and president of Leadership Transformations, Inc. (LTI), an author of 17 books, and a leading voice in spiritual formation and discipleship for Christian leaders. Suz is an artist and spiritual director who serves on LTI's Emmaus faculty and helps others encounter Christ through Scripture and art.

Together, Steve and Suz discuss their unique collaboration — pairing written devotional reflections with original artwork — and how the ancient practices of Lectio Divina (prayerful reading of Scripture) and Visio Divina (prayerful reflection on sacred art) can open fresh encounters with the parables of Jesus. They share about LTI's broader mission of cultivating vibrant spirituality and attentive discernment among Christian leaders and churches, and how this book grew naturally out of that discipleship work.

With 40 devotions perfectly suited for the season of Lent, this conversation explores how believers can use the parables as a framework for slowing down, recalibrating their hearts, and drawing closer to Jesus during the 40 days leading to Easter. Whether used individually or in a small group, Praying the Parables of Jesus offers a rich, multisensory path into the Kingdom stories Jesus told — and an invitation to let those stories reshape how we live, pray, and follow.

Lenten Prayer Experience
Steve Macchia
S.K. Suz Skinner
Godspeed Movie

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Year Through the Bible: How Asbury Church Is Building Scripture-Shaped Disciples

Tyndale House Publishers — Mon, 26 Jan 2026 18:00:00 -0600

How do you lead a congregation into deeper engagement with Scripture—and sustain it together? Pastor Andrew Forrest joins Dan Ehrman on The Church Around the World to share how Asbury Church in Tulsa is guiding the entire church through The One Year Bible in 2026 with a “Year Through the Bible” initiative built around shared rhythms, joy-filled discipleship, and practical tools pastors can adapt in their own contexts.

Andrew also reflects on the difficult leadership transition of leaving the church he planted and pastored for over a decade to serve Asbury following its disaffiliation from a denomination. Along the way, he offers wisdom for shepherding people through change, grounding ministry identity in faithfulness rather than outcomes, and leading with love in an anxious and divided age. The conversation includes insights from Andrew’s book, Love Goes First, and practical ideas for cultivating spiritual habits that shape a church’s life together.

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Episode Links:
Asbury Church - Tulsa
Andrew Forrest
Love Goes First: Reaching Others in an Age of Anxiety and Division

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Apologetics, Calling, and Identity — A Conversation with Alex McElroy

Tyndale House Publishers — Mon, 12 Jan 2026 18:00:00 -0600

In this episode of The Church Around the World, host Dan Ehrman is joined by Alex McElroy—pastor, author, and founder of Proof For The Truth—for a thoughtful conversation on how apologetics strengthens local church ministry, shapes discipleship, and equips believers to engage culture with confidence and grace.

Alex shares how apologetics is not merely an academic exercise, but a pastoral tool that helps congregations address doubt, disciple the next generation, and remain grounded in biblical truth amid cultural pressure. The conversation also explores the landscape of African-American apologetics, highlighting its unique voice, historical context, and growing influence within the broader evangelical church.

In addition, Alex reflects personally on navigating vocational change, the challenges of redefining calling outside of traditional ministry roles, and the importance of rooting identity not in titles or platforms, but in who we are in Christ. His story offers encouragement to pastors, ministry leaders, and believers discerning new seasons of calling while remaining faithful to God’s purposes.

This episode will resonate with anyone interested in: • Using apologetics as a discipleship and evangelism tool in the local church • Understanding the role and contribution of African-American voices in apologetics • Walking through vocational transition with spiritual clarity and confidence • Finding lasting identity and purpose grounded in God, not role or profession

A timely and encouraging conversation for church leaders, educators, and believers seeking to lead faithfully in a changing world.

Learn more about Alex McElroy: • https://www.proofforthetruth.org/ • https://www.alexrmcelroy.com/ • https://www.facebook.com/pastoralexmcelroy/

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Episode Links:
New Living Translation
NLT Scholars

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Ancient Languages, Global Transitions & Gospel Scholarship with Dr. Eric Tully

Tyndale House Publishers — Thu, 18 Dec 2025 18:00:00 -0600

In this week’s episode, host Dan Ehrman sits down with Dr. Eric J. Tully, Director of the PhD in Theological Studies and Professor of Old Testament and Semitic Languages at Trinity Evangelical Divinity School (TEDS). Dr. Tully joins us to explore why ancient languages matter deeply for the life of the local church, not just the academy — from deepening biblical interpretation to enriching preaching and discipleship.

We also dive into the significant transition unfolding at TEDS, as the historic seminary prepares to merge with Trinity Western University in Canada — a move that reflects broader shifts in theological education and mission in the 21st century. Dr. Tully shares insights on what this change means for faculty, students, and the global church community.

Along the way we discuss:
• The enduring value of studying the Bible in its original languages — Hebrew, Greek, and the ancient versions — for theological clarity and faithful ministry. Trinity International University
• How ancient texts and language study equip pastors and lay leaders for deeper engagement with Scripture. Trinity International University
• Dr. Tully’s academic work — including his books on prophetic literature, textual criticism, and biblical interpretation — and how these projects aim to connect rigorous scholarship with the life of the church. Trinity International University
• The story behind TEDS’ evolving institutional identity and its future in Canada.

Whether you’re a pastor, student, or curious follower of Jesus, this conversation will challenge the way you think about language, Scripture, and the global future of theological education.

Church Connect

Episode Links:
Dr. Tully LinkedIn
Dr. Eric Tully - TEDS

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Inside the NLT: Dr. Jerry Hwang on Bible Translation, Old Testament Scholarship, and Serving the Global Church

Tyndale House Publishers — Mon, 01 Dec 2025 18:00:00 -0600

In this episode of The Church Around the World, host Dan Ehrman sits down with Dr. Jerry Hwang — Academic Dean and Professor of Old Testament at Regent College and a member of the New Living Translation (NLT) Bible Translation Committee. Dr. Hwang shares how the NLT translation process works, how scholars collaborate, and why translation matters for a global and multilingual church. Together, they explore the challenges of communicating ancient Scripture in clear and accurate modern English, the importance of Old Testament theology, and the role of cross-cultural scholarship in shaping the mission of the church worldwide.

This conversation offers a rare behind-the-scenes look at how the Bible is translated and why it matters for pastors, missionaries, and believers around the world. If you’ve ever wondered how the NLT is created—or wanted insight into the intersection of theology, scholarship, and mission—this episode is for you.

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Episode Links:
New Living Translation
NLT Scholars

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Reaching Poland for Christ: Andrew Gorski and the Vision for 1 percent

Tyndale House Publishers — Mon, 10 Nov 2025 18:00:00 -0600

In this inspiring episode of The Church Around the World, host Dan Ehrman speaks with Andrew Gorski of Evangelical Poland and the Lake EPIC Training Center. Together they explore how God is stirring hearts in Poland—a nation rich in history yet still deeply shaped by its Catholic tradition.

Andrew shares the bold vision behind Evangelical Poland: to see 1% of the nation come to a Protestant faith in Jesus Christ. Listeners will gain a glimpse into the country’s unique cultural and spiritual landscape and hear how local leaders are partnering with international churches and ministries to advance the gospel.

The conversation also highlights mission trips taken in summer 2025, when teams from Tyndale House Publishers joined the work at Lake EPIC. These trips helped renovate facilities to support leadership training, outreach, and community engagement that equip Polish believers to reach their neighbors for Christ.

Join us as we celebrate how God is moving in Poland—and how the global Church can stand alongside our brothers and sisters there in prayer and partnership.

Church Connect

Episode Links:
Lake EPIC Christian Training Center
Evangelical Poland
Dawn Eaton’s Tyndale Mission Trip Experience

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Jessy Jaison - Mesa Global - Uniting and Equipping Church leaders in the Global South

Tyndale House Publishers — Mon, 03 Nov 2025 18:00:00 -0600

In this special episode of The Church Around the World, host Dan Ehrman is joined by co-host Caroline Curry from the Tyndale House Foundation for an in-studio conversation with Dr. Jessy Jaison of Mesa Global, her husband Dr. Jaison Thomas, and nonprofit leader Chris Bos.

Mesa Global equips local church leaders in more than 50 nations, including across Asia—where Oxford-trained Dr. Jessy Jaison leads from India, a nation home to more than 800 seminaries and theological training institutions.

Dr. Jaison offers practical and spiritual insights on uniting leaders for the Gospel, the journey from leading peers to serving as a respected elder, and the challenges of merging diverse ministry organizations. The conversation explores:

- The Christian legacy and church diversity across Kerala and India. - Bridging the gap between the academy and the church so that thriving congregations have well-trained leaders. - God’s work in shaping her leadership as a woman in full-time ministry. - The ongoing call to discipleship and spiritual formation throughout life. - Engaging and mentoring younger leaders to bridge generational divides. - Leading effectively across cultures in the Global South.

This episode is a rich reflection on Gospel-centered leadership, humility in growth, and the global church’s shared mission to equip the next generation of faithful servants.

Church Connect

Episode Links:
Dr. Jessy Jaison
Dr. Jaison Thomas
Chris Bos

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Joyce and Tobbias Ngala - African Missionaries to America

Tyndale House Publishers — Tue, 28 Oct 2025 19:00:00 -0500

From Nairobi to Mombasa to Chicago, Joyce and Tobbias Ngala share their remarkable journey of faith and calling. After planting a thriving network of churches in Mombasa, the Ngala family followed God’s call to serve in the United States. Known for their passion for discipleship, endurance sports, and deep Scripture memorization, Joyce and Tobbias join Dan Ehrman on The Church Around the World podcast to discuss ministry, leadership, and what it means to be African missionaries to America.

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Church Connect – Discover trusted ministry resources from leading Christian publishers to equip and strengthen your church. Enjoy everyday bulk discounts of up to 45%, free shipping on orders over $50, and more. Every purchase supports the Tyndale Foundation, advancing Christian ministries and global missions.

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Joyce and Tobbias Ngala
Mission Church
Tobbias Ngala

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The Bible in America - John Plake

Tyndale House Publishers — Mon, 13 Oct 2025 19:00:00 -0500

How are Millennials and Gen Z engaging with the Bible today? Dr. John Plake, Chief Innovation Officer at the American Bible Society, joins Dan Ehrman on The Church Around the World podcast to share insights from the State of the Bible 2025 research. Discover trends in Scripture engagement, the history of ABS, and how God is shaping a new generation of ministry leaders. Perfect for pastors, church leaders, and anyone passionate about Bible engagement and discipleship.

How does God move the Bible from words on a page to His Word written on our hearts? Dr. John Plake, Chief Innovation Officer at the American Bible Society, joins Dan Ehrman on The Church Around the World podcast to share insights from the State of the Bible 2025 research, reflect on ABS’s history, and highlight how God is inspiring a new generation of ministry. He also offers encouraging perspectives on how Millennials and Gen Z are engaging Scripture at deeper levels than ever before.

Dr. John Plake has served in church leadership, missions, non-profit work, cross-cultural leadership, and education. Alongside his research at the American Bible Society, he teaches at Evangel University and leads Mission Insights. John holds a Ph.D. in Intercultural Studies from Assemblies of God Theological Seminary, an M.A. in Missions from Wheaton College, and a B.S. in Pastoral Studies from North Central University.

Church Connect

Episode Links:
State of the Bible 2025 eBook
American Bible Society
Church.NextStep.Bible
Dr. John Plake

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When Hurting People Come to Church

Tyndale House Publishers — Sun, 21 Sep 2025 19:00:00 -0500

Mental health professionals are equipping churches to better care for hurting people in their communities. Shaunti Feldhahn and Dr. James Sells join Dan Ehrman on The Church Around the World to discuss their book When Hurting People Come to Church. Shaunti and Jim share a new vision for churches to engage in discipleship and outreach while becoming places of hope and healing. By empowering church members, congregations can create opportunities for evangelism, discipleship, and growth.

Drawing on surveys of 2,000 church leaders, bestselling author and social researcher Shaunti Feldhahn, together with psychologist and professor Dr. James N. Sells, show why this is the church’s moment. Now is the time to bring healing to the hurting and build healthy communities of care—for today and for generations to come.

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Church Connect – Access trusted resources from leading Christian publishers to strengthen your church. Enjoy everyday bulk discounts of up to 45%, free shipping on orders over $50, and more. Every purchase supports the Tyndale Foundation, which funds Christian ministries and global mission organizations.

Episode Links:
When Hurting People Come to Church
TheChurchCares.com
Shaunti Feldhahn
James Sells, Ph.D.

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NLT Bible Translation Committee - Dr. Lynn Cohick

Tyndale House Publishers — Sun, 14 Sep 2025 19:00:00 -0500

The New Living Translation was first published nearly 30 years ago and last updated in 2015. Today, a new generation of scholars is building on the work of the original team to review and refresh the translation. Dr. Lynn Cohick, a New Testament scholar, joins Dan Ehrman on The Church Around the World to share her experience in the review and revision process to ensure the New Living Translation remains accurate, understandable, and audibly enjoyable. She offers practical insights on keeping a familiar text fresh, recognizing how God works through his Word, helping the church navigate secondary issues, and unpacking the character and nature of God who has revealed himself in Scripture.

Lynn Cohick, PhD, is Distinguished Professor of New Testament and Director of Houston Theological Seminary. She has previously served at Northern Seminary, Denver Seminary, and Wheaton College. Dr. Cohick has authored eight books and Bible commentaries, co-hosts The Alabaster Jar Podcast, contributed to Every Woman’s Bible, and serves on the NLT Bible Translation Committee as Senior Translator for the Synoptic Gospels and Acts.

Church Connect

Church Connect – Connect your church to resources from trusted publishers working to unify all people in the faith and knowledge of Jesus Christ. Enjoy bulk discounts of up to 45% off every day, free shipping on orders over $50, and more. Profits from each purchase support the Tyndale Foundation, which awards grants to Christian ministries and global mission organizations.

Episode Links:
Lynn Cohick
New Living Translation
Every Woman’s Bible
The Alabaster Jar Podcast

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Missionary to America - Christian Mungai - People Are the Wealth

Tyndale House Publishers — Tue, 02 Sep 2025 19:00:00 -0500

“Your (American) churches are dying, ours are growing, but you’re still sending us missionaries. Shouldn’t we be sending missionaries to you?” Nairobi, Kenya Bishop Oscar Muriu proclaimed at Urbana 20 years ago. Today, Pastor Christian Mungai embodies that vision as the Global Movement Pastor at Mariners Church. He joins Dan Ehrman on The Church Around the World to share his story and the African vision of people-centered, missional Christian life from his book People Are the Wealth.

Pastor Mungai has served as a Kenyan missionary to the United States since 2007. At Mariners Church in Irvine, California, he mobilizes the global church to join God’s work worldwide. Previously, he was a member of Milele, an Afro-fusion band that grew from celebrating God through music into a platform for humanitarian and Kingdom work. Christian studied social legislation at BAMU University in India and pursued a Master of Divinity at Claremont School of Theology.

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Church Connect - Connect your church to resources from trusted publishers working to unify all people in our faith and knowledge of Jesus Christ. Receive everyday bulk discounts up to 45% off, free shipping on orders over $50, and more. Profits from each purchase go to Tyndale Foundation to award grants to Christian ministries and global mission organizations.
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People are the Wealth
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Apologetics for the Church - Dr. Kurt Jaros

Tyndale House Publishers — Mon, 28 Jul 2025 19:00:00 -0500

Apologetics is experiencing a resurgence in Western culture—but what does that mean for today’s Church? Dr. Kurt Jaros joins Dan Ehrman on The Church Around the World to share his personal journey, calling, and insights into cultural trends shaping apologetics ministry today.

Dr. Kurt Jaros is a theologian, apologist, author, podcast host, and teaches at the Lee Strobel Center for Evangelism & Applied Apologetics at Colorado Christian University. Kurt holds advanced degrees in theology and apologetics, earned his doctorate from the University of Aberdeen in Scotland, has presented at Evangelical Theological Society, and regularly teaches at apologetics events across the U.S.

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Ordinary Rideshare Evangelism - Jayson Turner

The Church Around the World — Mon, 14 Jul 2025 19:00:00 -0500

After 25 years in ministry in Seattle, a health crisis led Pastor Jay to an unexpected calling—driving for a ride-share company. But God was still at work. Known by many as the "uberpastor," Jay began sharing Christ in everyday conversations from the driver’s seat.

Now serving as Pastor of Discipleship at Fourth Memorial Church in Spokane, Washington, Jayson continues to drive part-time to engage his community through “Ordinary Evangelism.” He and his wife Julie, along with their seven children, relocated to Spokane in 2020.

Jayson holds a degree in Speech Communications from the University of Washington and earned his Master of Divinity from Western Seminary.Church Connect

Episode Links:

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30 Years in Huntsville - Pastor Gary Garrison

The Church Around the World — Mon, 30 Jun 2025 19:00:00 -0500

Huntsville is the name of Texas’s state penitentiary—and the town where Pastor Gary Garrison has faithfully served Second Baptist Church since 1996. In this episode of The Church Around the World, Pastor Gary joins Dan Ehrman to share how stepping back from full-time ministry to run a local gym opened the door for God to work in unexpected ways. Hear how he learned to lead without striving, to serve without people-pleasing, and to find joy in seeing God at work in small-town America.

Gary Garrison holds a degree in Business from Texas A&M and an M.Div. from Southwestern Baptist Theological Seminary. As he approaches 30 years as Senior Pastor at Second Baptist Church in Huntsville, TX, he also runs Iron Works Health Club—where ministry continues to unfold every day.Church Connect

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Dr. Tim Matheny - Church Finance Bonds and Ministry

Tyndale House Publishers — Mon, 16 Jun 2025 19:00:00 -0500

Dr. Tim Matheny on Church Finance and Health

Dr. Tim Matheny, a leading expert in church finance and health diagnostics since the 1980s, joins Dan Ehrman on The Church Around the World. With a doctorate from Fuller Seminary focused on Church Growth Analysis and decades of experience in church bond programs and financial consulting, Dr. Matheny offers both financial and spiritual insights from a lifetime of serving the church.
In this episode, Tim and Dan reflect on key projects and timeless principles that continue to shape church ministry today.
Dr. Matheny began his academic journey at Harding University, earning a B.A. in Bible and a Master of Theology in Missiology before completing his doctoral studies at Fuller. After serving in pastoral ministry at a megachurch in the 1970s, he transitioned into church finance, where he has served faithfully for over 40 years. Church Connect

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Travis West - The Sabbath Way

Tyndale House Publishers — Mon, 02 Jun 2025 19:00:00 -0500

Travis West is professor of Hebrew and Old Testament at Western Theological Seminary, where he is known for incorporating performance, embodiment, and play into the process of learning biblical Hebrew and interpreting biblical stories. Otherwise, he’s searching for wonder off in a field, at a farmers market, watching movies, or hanging out with his wife, Mariah, who is his most consistent source of delight and amazement. He shares real life implications for not only practicing Sabbath one day a week, but insights for how we can reshape our whole lives to reflect God's cadence for living.
The Sabbath Way, his new book from Tyndale House Publishers, rediscovers radical rest – a posture for living with delight, gratitude, and flourishing in community. Dr. West holds a Ph.D. from Vrije Universiteit, M.Div. and Th.M. from Western Theological Seminary, and B.A. from Calvin College. Church Connect

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Vaughn Sanders - Co-Vocational Pastor

Tyndale House Publishers — Mon, 12 May 2025 19:00:00 -0500

Vaughn Sanders is a co-vocational in Cyber Security and as Lead Pastor at First Baptist Church of Bolingbrook. Pastor Sanders joins in conversation with Dan Ehrman to share how God has led him into co-vocational ministry, the ways he is seeing God lead and provide in church revitalization, and the dynamics of leading a multiethnic church.
Vaughn shares practical insights for other pastors in co-vocational roles, seeing God persist to grow him in preaching the Bible and equipping him for the work of the ministry, and the joys of seeing God present in all of his work – secular and as a pastor. He has served in the church for over 15 years in various roles and has served in his co-vocational capacity since 2018.
Vaughn Sanders holds a Masters in Information Systems Management and Information Security and has over 20 years experience in Cyber Security. He is married to Libby and they have two children. Church Connect

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Dr. Naomi Cramer Overton - Every Woman's Bible

Tyndale House Publishers — Wed, 30 Apr 2025 19:00:00 -0500

Dr. Naomi Cramer Overton joins Dan Ehrman on The Church Around the World in a powerful conversation sharing insights from her multifaceted career in business and ministry, the journey of developing Every Woman’s Bible, and practical steps church leaders—especially men—can take to better support women in the church.
After earning degrees from Stanford University and an MBA from UCLA, Dr. Overton built a successful career in marketing and organizational development before making a mid-career transition into ministry leadership. She has held executive roles at organizations including The MomCo by MOPS, Compassion International, Denver Seminary, World Vision, Slingshot Group, Stonecroft, We Are Becoming, and as the General Editor of Every Woman’s Bible.
Dr. Overton earned a doctorate from Fuller Theological Seminary, raised four children, and—with her husband Frank—has climbed nearly 30 high-altitude mountain peaks. Don’t miss this inspiring and practical episode.
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Clint Pressley - SBC President - Hickory Grove

Tyndale House Publishers — Sun, 13 Apr 2025 19:00:00 -0500

Clint Pressley, President of the Southern Baptist Convention and Senior Pastor of Hickory Grove Baptist Church in Charlotte, NC, joins Dan Ehrman on The Church Around the World to share how he is seeing God at work in the local church and from a broader perspective through the SBC. He shares practical leadership insights from coming into leadership in the church where he was raised, to navigating the challenges of multiple positions, tensioning life with family while serving in vocational ministry, and how young ministers can pursue vocational ministry.
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Mark McCarter - FBC Okeechobee

Tyndale House Publishers — Sun, 06 Apr 2025 19:00:00 -0500

Joining The Church Around the World from rural south-central Florida, Pastor Mark McCarter of First Baptist Church of Okeechobee talks with host Dan Ehrman about how God is drawing a remarkable portion of their county to church. Mark shares glimpses of rural Florida life—farming, alligators, and all—and offers practical insights for church leaders into how the church is engaging its community and reaching the next generation with the gospel.

Originally from rural Alabama, McCarter says God uniquely prepared him to serve in a small-town – though there’s only about 5,000 residents, Okeechobee is the largest town he’s lived in. Mark walks us through his ministry journey and reflects on the awe he feels being part of what God is doing at FBC Okeechobee today.
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Pastor Isaac Challo Tanzania Assembly of God

Tyndale House Publishers — Thu, 13 Mar 2025 19:00:00 -0500

Isaac Challo
Isaac Challo is a husband, father, pastor, Bible and theology teacher, preacher, and pre-marriage and marriage counselor based in Dar es Salaam, Tanzania. He joins Dan Ehrman on The Church Around the World to share how he sees God at work in his ministry. Challo offers practical insights on using marriage counseling as a tool for evangelism and discipleship while introducing a Western audience to the culture and church in Tanzania.
Previously a church planter and evangelist in rural Tanzania, Challo studied as a Billy Graham scholar at Wheaton College before relocating with his family to Dar es Salaam, the country’s business hub. He now serves with the Assemblies of God. Together, Betty and Isaac Challo lead marriage classes, retreats, and workshops, helping young couples develop a vision for their marriages and families to serve their communities. In addition, Challo spearheads neighborhood outreach efforts, leveraging the cultural openness to door-to-door, in-person connections.
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Salvador Padilla - Iglesia Biblica de Irapuato - Mexico

Tyndale House Publishers — Sun, 02 Mar 2025 18:00:00 -0600

Salvador “Chava” Padilla is a leader at Iglesia Biblica de Irapuato, a Protestant church near Guanajuato, Mexico. On The Church Around the World with Dan Ehrman, Chava shares how God is moving in their congregation as second- and third-generation Christian families worship together for the first time. He offers practical insights on topics ranging from culture and politics and the struggles of working full-time through college to life in one of the world’s most violent cities and how the American Church can pray for and learn from the Mexican Church.
Chava and his wife, Jeseli Padilla, both graduates of Emmaus University with degrees in Bible and Theology, are parents to a son and two daughters. They stay busy preaching and teaching at their church, while Chava also works as an English teacher at the local University of Technology. In their spare time, they train for their next marathon. Church Connect

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Eric Vogel - Faithbrook Church - Next Gen Ministry

The Church Around the World — Thu, 27 Feb 2025 18:00:00 -0600

Pastor Eric Vogel, the Next Gen Pastor at Faithbrook Church in Dayton, Minnesota, joins Dan Ehrman on The Church Around the World to share how God is working in young people. He discusses his journey from a teaching career to ministry, his passion for sharing the hope of the Gospel with students, and how to engage a generation with little cultural awareness of the Bible. Gain practical insights on navigating cultural complexities, balancing youth sports, and witnessing God’s work in young lives.
Eric grew up in the Chicago suburbs in a Christian family and attended a great church, but it was a pastor who discipled him using the New Living Translation to help his faith take root leading him into pastoral ministry. He studied at Northern Baptist Theological Seminary and Knox College and now serves at Faithbrook Church, part of the Church of the Nazarene.
Eric and his wife, Aly, have a young son and are expecting their second child in summer 2025. Outside of ministry and family life, Eric stays active with Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu and marathon training. Church Connect

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Clay Smith - Johnson Ferry Baptist Church

The Church Around the World — Thu, 06 Feb 2025 18:00:00 -0600

Rev. Dr. Pastor Clay Smith joins Dan Ehrman on The Church Around the World to share practical insights on how God sustained them during a season of uncertainty after taking over for a founding pastor at the end of 2019, the tensions between academic study and practical ministry, finding joy in the call of ministry, loving his wife and family as well as the church, the artistry and imperfection of working with people, and how they are seeing God at work at Johnson Ferry Baptist Church.
Terrica and Clay Smith have three daughters and a Boykin Spaniel named Watson. With a passion for ministry centered on the Great Commission through evangelism, relational disciple-making, and text-driven preaching, Clay loves to help people understand the Word of God so they might know the God of the Word. He is a graduate of the University of South Carolina and holds a master’s and Ph.D. in biblical preaching from Southwestern Baptist Theological Seminary. He also serves as a trustee at the Southern Baptist Theological Seminary. Outside of ministry, you might find him reading a book, lifting weights, fishing, or searching for the best cheeseburger in town.Church Connect

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Jeeva Pakerla - The Maranatha Movement

The Church Around the World — Wed, 22 Jan 2025 18:00:00 -0600

Pastor Jeeva Pakerla was born into a family with a multi-generational commitment to serving the church in India. He is the President of The Bible Mission in Narsapur, the founder of the Maranatha Movement, and leads Jereu Music Ministry. In conversation on The Church Around the World, he shares practical insights for following God's leading and focusing on evangelism and discipleship ministries. After earning an M.S. in Management Information Systems at Eastern Michigan University, he pursued a successful career in business. However, he felt God’s call to return to India and dedicate himself to full-time ministry, focusing on evangelism, music, and church ministry—sacrificing the opportunity to settle in the United States.
He was a Billy Graham Scholar recipient while receiving an M.A. in Evangelism and Leadership from Wheaton College. Today, he focuses on transforming lives and communities through the Gospel, serving as pastor of the Bible Mission Church in Narsapur, Andhra Pradesh, and leading the Maranatha Movement, which draws over 40,000 attendees each month through charitable initiatives, festivals, Jereu Music ministry, and conferences, all with a vision for nationwide revival training up disciple makers and church planters to spread the Gospel of Jesus Christ.Church Connect

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Greg Pritchard - European Leadership Forum

Tyndale House Publishers — Tue, 07 Jan 2025 18:00:00 -0600

Dr. Greg Pritchard joins Dan Ehrman on The Church Around the World to share insights from his decades of experience with the European Leadership Forum, which partners to renew and resource the biblical church and evangelize Europe. Practical insights include discerning God’s call to leave corporate America, developing young ministry leaders, unpacking essential apologetics, and lessons the American church can learn from the European church.
Greg Pritchard earned his Ph.D. in Religion in Personality and Society from Northwestern University and has taught courses at institutions across America, Europe, and Asia. Formerly the COO of a Chicago investment firm, Greg is also the author of Willow Creek Seeker Services, and serves as the President of the Forum of Christian Leaders and the Director of the European Leadership Forum. Church Connect

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Jon Kelly - The Church Around the World

Tyndale House Publishers — Sun, 08 Dec 2024 18:00:00 -0600

Rev. Dr. Jon Kelly joins Dan Ehrman on The Church Around the World to discuss practical insights on leading a multiethnic church, navigating cultural differences, and casting a vision for global missions within an urban Chicago context.
Jon’s story is one of profound transformation. Growing up, he cycled in and out of juvenile detention and, at 19, received a prison sentence for his involvement in a shooting that tragically claimed a young man’s life. While in prison, Jon began reading the New Testament and gave his life to Christ in his cell. Initially expecting to spend his life behind bars, he was granted a reduced sentence, was released, and began attending church.
Jon has since pursued extensive theological education, earning a degree in Theology from Moody Bible Institute, a graduate degree in Biblical Studies from Wheaton College, and a Doctorate in Global Missions from Southern Baptist Theological Seminary. His personal experiences have fueled his passion for serving families impacted by incarceration—often overlooked and underserved. Jon ministers alongside his wife, Danielle, and their three sons. Church Connect

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Bruce Strom - Administer Justice - The Church Around the World

Tyndale House Publishers — Mon, 25 Nov 2024 18:00:00 -0600

Bruce Strom, CEO and Founder of Administer Justice shares their origin story and the vision churches to open 1,000 Gospel Justice Centers.
There is a significant civil justice gap in America. Over 40 million low-income individuals are unable to access basic legal advice. Administer Justice partners with churches to address this need by establishing Gospel Justice Centers, which provide legal assistance rooted in compassion and faith. Bruce Strom, CEO and Founder of Administer Justice, joins Dan Ehrman on The Church Around the World to share his journey and how he is witnessing God work through local churches to "Judge fairly, and show mercy and kindness to one another" (Zechariah 7:9, NLT).
Amid a thriving legal career, Bruce Strom felt God calling him to leave his practice and launch Administer Justice. Initially serving the northwest suburbs of Chicago, the organization has since developed a scalable model for churches nationwide. With over 100 Gospel Justice Centers already established, Administer Justice aims to launch 1,000 centers across the country.
In this conversation, Bruce discusses the practical challenges attorneys face, how Gospel Justice Centers offer effective solutions for doing justice, and the unique opportunities for churches to share the Gospel in the process. As you listen, prayerfully consider whether God may be calling your church to launch a Gospel Justice Centerin your community. Below, you’ll find additional links to learn more.
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Juan Riesco - Love Life - The Church Around the World

The Church Around the World — Mon, 11 Nov 2024 18:00:00 -0600

Juan Riesco, Chicago City Director at Love Life USA, shares how the church can care for women with unplanned pregnancies.

Juan Riesco brings passion, love, and a unique perspective to every endeavor. As the City Director at Love Life USA, he is mobilizing hundreds of churches and thousands of Protestants to engage in pro-life efforts, an area traditionally led by the Roman Catholic Church in places like Chicago. He is also a leader in evangelistic street preaching, reviving a time-honored method that had fallen out of favor due to associations with negative actors and superficial tactics. From our conversation today, church leaders can gather practical insights on how to engage the local church in activism for their communities and the Gospel.

Growing up, Juan’s family ran a small corner bodega in Chicago. After years of drifting from the Lord and the family business, God redirected Juan’s passion back toward serving Him and working within the family business. In a short time, Nini’s Deli became a viral sensation in Chicago, gaining brand sponsorships from Fortune 500 apparel companies and recognition within the city’s restaurant scene. However, in 2020, a wave of protests erupted on their block as Juan took a stand that conflicted with the prevailing sentiments in the city, eventually leading to the business's closure.

Out of these challenges, God instilled in Juan a renewed passion for serving his community. Today, he leads efforts to support women, men, and the unborn at abortion clinics during their busiest days each week, and he volunteers to lead street evangelism in his off hours. Be inspired to consider how God might be calling a new generation in your church to serve the community, to encourage human flourishing, and to embrace Love Life alongside Juan Riesco.Church Connect

Church Connect Connect your church to resources from trusted publishers working to unify all people in our faith and knowledge of Jesus Christ. Receive everyday bulk discounts up to 45% off, free shipping on orders over $50, and more. Profits from each purchase go to Tyndale Foundation to award grants to Christian ministries and global mission organizations. Episode Links: Juan Riesco Instagram
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Pastor Adam Wilson - Indian Creek Christian Church - Cynthiana, Kentucky

The Church Around the World — Tue, 29 Oct 2024 19:00:00 -0500

Pastor Adam Wilson shares insights on engaging rural communities with the Gospel.
Pastor Adam Wilson serves at Indian Creek Christian Church in Cynthiana, Kentucky, and joins Dan Ehrman on "The Church Around the World" to share practical insights for Christians looking to engage rural communities with the Gospel. They discuss the unique challenges of pastoring in a small town, the dynamics of rural America, and how he is witnessing God’s impact on people through the church.
Adam leads a 220-year-old church in a small town located about 30 miles outside of Lexington. Indian Creek Christian Church is still growing, with nearly 5% of the local community in attendance. While their legacy is rooted in the Restoration Movement, they eagerly anticipate how God will continue to work through His church in Indian Creek.Church Connect

Church Connect - Connect your church to resources from trusted publishers working to unify all people in our faith and knowledge of Jesus Christ. Receive bulk discounts up to 45% off, free shipping on orders over $50, and more. Profits from each purchase go to Tyndale Foundation to award grants to Christian ministries and global mission organizations.Episode Links:

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Rev. Dr. Amy Peeler - Wheaton College - The Church Around the World

Tyndale House Publishers — Mon, 14 Oct 2024 19:00:00 -0500

Rev. Dr. Amy Peeler joins Dan Ehrman on The Church Around the World to share practical insights for Christians on how to engage in respectful disagreements regarding gender roles in ministry without breaking fellowship. They discuss navigating faith as both a Baptist and an Anglican, as well as how Dr. Peeler perceives God's work in both the Academy and the local church. Dr. Peeler is the Kenneth T. Wessner Professor of New Testament at Wheaton College and Associate Rector at St. Mark’s Episcopal Church. She is the author of several books and has a particular expertise in the book of Hebrews. Dr. Peeler holds degrees from Oklahoma Baptist University and Princeton Theological Seminary, and she has served as a Senior Research Fellow with the Logos Institute at the University of St. Andrews.

Church Connect https://Church-Connect.com - Connect your church to resources from trusted publishers working to unify all people in our faith and knowledge of Jesus Christ. Receive bulk discounts up to 45% off, free shipping on orders over $50, and more. Profits from each purchase go to https://Tyndale.Foundation to award grants to Christian ministries and global mission organizations.

Episode Links:
Dr. Amy Peeler: https://amypeeler.com/
Wheaton College: https://www.wheaton.edu/academics/faculty/amy-peeler/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/amy.peeler/

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Dr.-Jonathan-Kline-Hendrickson-Preachers-Companion

The Church Around the World — Sun, 06 Oct 2024 19:00:00 -0500

Dr. Jonathan Kline, senior editor at Hendrickson Publishers, joins Dan Ehrman on the Church Around the World podcast to share about his leadership in developing a new category of Bible resources through a series called The Preacher’s Companion. In this series, Jonathan examines the Greek or Hebrew of certain biblical passages with a variety of lexical and grammatical tools. Each passage is accompanied by a brief commentary bridging the gap between the meaning of the original text and how it may be preached today. This series fills a critical gap for pastors who aren’t scholars of ancient languages but want to draw on the richness of the original languages of the Bible as they preach the Word.
Dr. Kline shares his journey from earning a PhD at Harvard to serving in Christian publishing. He draws on the tradition of scholarship in his family, which goes back to his grandfather Meredith G. Kline, a prominent professor of Old Testament at a seminary.

Church Connect- Connect your church to resources from trusted publishers working to unify all people in our faith and knowledge of Jesus Christ. Receive bulk discounts up to 45% off, free shipping on orders over $50, and more.
Profits from each purchase go in part to support the Tyndale House Foundation to award grants to Christian ministries and global mission organizations.

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The Preacher's Companion Series

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Pastor-Ian-Simkins-The-Bridge-Church-Nashville

Tyndale House Publishers — Sun, 29 Sep 2024 19:00:00 -0500

Ian Simkins, lead pastor of teaching at The Bridge Church in the Nashville area joins Dan Ehrman on the Church Around the World podcast today. He shares insights about the unique leadership structure at The Bridge (where he shares duties with lead pastor of strategy, Craig McKown) and his trajectory from heading up a fledgling community church on the brink of closing to holding lead teaching roles at larger churches. He also talks about his influential Instagram account where he weaves art and poetry with biblical insights and the everyday challenges of raising a young family with his wife, Katie.

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Profits from each purchase go in part to support the Tyndale House Foundation to award grants to Christian ministries and global mission organizations.

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Chris-Shaw-Argentina-and-Latin-America

The Church Around the World — Sun, 22 Sep 2024 19:00:00 -0500

Chris Shaw has been a shepherd of pastors in Argentina and across Latin America for decades. He has served at the Instituto Biblico de Buenos Aires, Desarrollo Cristiano Internacional, and Apuntes Pastorales magazine. He now joins Dan Ehrman on the Church Around the World podcast to share insights about leadership dynamics in the Latin American church and how he sees God at work in the Church as a whole.

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Profits from each purchase go in part to support the Tyndale House Foundation to award grants to Christian ministries and global mission organizations.

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The Church Around the World - Crawford Loritts

Tyndale House Publishers — Sun, 15 Sep 2024 19:00:00 -0500

Rev. Dr. Crawford Loritts is joining Dan Ehrman on The Church Around the World podcast today. He will share practical insights into how he perceives God at work in multiethnic ministry, recount his journey of being guided towards this calling, and discuss his vision for future generations of the church. Dr. Loritts is the founder of Beyond Our Generation, has served as a church planter, spent 27 years on staff with Cru, authored nine books, hosts the radio program Living a Legacy, speaks globally to church and ministry leaders, and has been a featured speaker at Super Bowls, NCAA Final Four chapel, and the Pentagon with senior military officers.

Episode Links:
Beyond Our Generation: https://BeyondOurGeneration.com/
Leaving a Legacy: https://www.moodyradio.org/programs/Living-A-Legacy/
X: https://x.com/CrawfordLoritts

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Africans Reaching Africa

Tyndale House Publishers — Mon, 09 Sep 2024 19:00:00 -0500

The Church Around the World

Bill and Jen, Co-Founders of Africans Reaching Africa, serve a team of indigenous church missionaries across unreached parts of Africa, joining Dan Ehrman on The Church Around the World podcast to share how they are seeing God move in miraculous ways, even redirecting the heart of a king where Christian faith could be a death sentence. Bill and Jen share how God called them to give up lucrative careers to launch Africans Reaching Africa and how the American church can partner in prayer and financially support African pastors and missionaries in places inhospitable to westerners.

Episode Links:
Africans Reaching Africa: https://www.aramissions.org/
Bill and Jen: https://www.aramissions.org/
Donate today: https://aramissions.givingfuel.com/httpsaramissionsorgdonate-now

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Jaime-Miron-Nueva-Traduccion-Viviente-Luis-Palau-Association

Tyndale House Publishers — Sun, 01 Sep 2024 19:00:00 -0500

Dr. Jaime Miron (a.k.a Jim Williams) has served with the Luis Palau Association since 1968 and oversaw the translation of the Bible into contemporary Spanish with the Nueva Traducción Viviente. Today, he joins Dan Ehrman on the Church Around the World podcast to share insights from over 55 years of leadership in global evangelization. He also talks about the challenges of developing a new Spanish translation of the Bible, God’s miraculous gifting of the ability to rapidly learn Spanish as an adult, and the challenges of faithful ministry in his 80s today.

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Profits from each purchase go in part to support the Tyndale House Foundation to award grants to Christian ministries and global mission organizations.

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Mark-Vroegop-The-Gospel-Coalition

Tyndale House Publishers — Sun, 25 Aug 2024 19:00:00 -0500

Mark Vroegop, President of The Gospel Coalition, was serving as lead pastor of College Park Church in Indianapolis and board member of The Gospel Coalition when he joined Dan Ehrman on the Church Around the World podcast to share insights for leading a growing diverse church and the spiritual challenges that led to writing books on lament and waiting.
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Pastor Dave Conrads, Genesis Church - Iowa

The Church Around the World — Sun, 07 Jul 2024 19:10:00 -0500

Dave Conrads, pastor of Genesis Church in Coralville, Iowa, joins Dan Ehrman on the Church Around the World podcast to share insights for working as a bi-vocational church planter after coming to faith as an adult and attending seminary mid-career. Church Connect: Connect your church to resources from trusted publishers working to unify all people in our faith and knowledge of Jesus Christ.

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Tristen Meza - The Bridge kid's ministry; GO Bible for kids

Tyndale House Publishers — Sun, 07 Jul 2024 19:04:00 -0500

Tristen Meza, kids’ director at The Bridge Church in the Nashville suburbs joins Dan Ehrman on the Church Around the World podcast to share her thoughts on cultural shifts in kids in the church, emerging trends in kids’ ministry, challenges of engaging kids in Bible reading, and her journey to serving in the church today. Afterwards, Dan is joined in studio by Linda Howard, associate publisher of Global Bible, Alliances, and Kids products at Tyndale House Publishers, to announce the launch of the Go Bible for kids. The Go Bible features the full text of the NLT Bible translation, but it includes larger fonts, kid-friendly maps, and over 600 features centered on the theme of transformation.Episode Links:

• Website: https://www.bridge.tv/
• Tristen Meza: Facebook
• Webpage: Go Bible
• Linda Howard: LinkedIn

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Pastor Chris Butler - AND Campaign; Chicago Embassy Church

The Church Around the World — Sun, 07 Jul 2024 19:01:00 -0500

Chris Butler, pastor of the Chicago Embassy Church Network, leader in the AND Campaign, author, podcaster, and political advocate, joins Dan Ehrman on the Church Around the World podcast to share insights for church leaders about engaging politically, the distinctions between political advocacy and pastoral calling, and his hope for America and the church.

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Episode Links:
Twitter: https://twitter.com/christhecitizen
Website: https://www.cecnetwork.church
Website: https://andcampaign.org/
Podcast: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-church-politics-podcast/id1289898626?mt=2
The Book: https://www.amazon.com/Compassion-Conviction-Campaigns-Faithful-Engagement/dp/083084810X

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E.M. Evan Welcher - Grace Baptist Church, Vermillion, SD

The Church Around the World — Sun, 07 Jul 2024 19:00:00 -0500

The Church Around the World

E. M. (Evan) Welcher, author and senior pastor of Grace Baptist Church in Vermillion, South Dakota, joins Dan Ehrman, an old classmate from Emmaus Bible College, on the Church Around the World podcast to share his resilient hope while carrying the grief of the loss of his first wife, Danielle, to cancer; walking with his now-wife, Rachel, through multiple miscarriages, and navigating church hurt as a pastor. Evan and Rachel have each written several books, and Evan is not only a pastor but a poet with an old soul and a motorcycle.

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Episode Links:
• Substack: https://substack.com/@emwelcher
• Twitter: https://twitter.com/EvanWelcher
• Website: https://gbcvermillion.com/ (Vermillion, SD)
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