What happens when ordinary lives are met with extraordinary calls to serve? Join us for an inspiring conversation with Glenn and Rhonda Stewart, who share their transformative journey of 18 years as missionaries in Rajasthan, India. Discover how Rhonda, raised in a Christian family in North Carolina, was influenced by her older sisters and youth pastor in shaping her spiritual path. Meanwhile, Glenn opens up about his faith journey, detailing his struggles and eventual return to faith after years of personal challenges in Southern West Virginia. Their stories offer a heartening reminder of how mentorship and unexpected circumstances can guide us toward our life's purpose.

Ever wondered how a simple church visit could change the course of your life? For Glenn, a spontaneous trip led to an unexpected introduction to missions through a journey to Africa, igniting a commitment that would last a lifetime. Listen as we explore the profound impact of global missions, including transformative experiences in Japan, and how these moments fostered a deep-seated dedication to discipleship and church planting. As Glenn and Rhonda recount their experiences, they illustrate the unpredictable yet impactful nature of spiritual callings and how these can lead to life-altering experiences.

Navigating faith, career, and relationships can be a challenging path, especially when called to serve overseas. Rhonda shares her story of grappling with personal goals and spiritual callings, eventually finding a like-minded partner in Glenn during seminary. The episode highlights the importance of aligning life paths and shared visions when pursuing missionary work. We also explore the mission of the Tom Eliff Center for Missions at Oklahoma Baptist University, where the focus is on equipping future missionaries. Discover how the center prepares students for global missions and how the Stewarts' journey can inspire others to consider a life dedicated to service.

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What is a missionary? Join us for a compelling exploration of the biblical foundation of missionary work with our Director, Elbert Smith. With his extensive experience at the International Mission Board and the Tom Elliff Center for Missions, Elbert unpacks the profound mission of God and how the role of a missionary falls into it. Together, we challenge the common misconception that every believer is a missionary, diving deep into scriptural insights and the Apostle Paul's pioneering New Testament journeys, which serve as a historical framework for spreading the gospel in unreached places.

Our discussion takes a fresh look at the Christian role in missions, tracing the evolution of the Great Commission from its early interpretation as an apostolic mandate to its current understanding as a call for all believers. We examine how figures like Philip in Acts demonstrate that anyone, regardless of title, can contribute to the gospel's reach. Elbert sheds light on the diverse roles and gifts within the church, drawing distinctions between capital A Apostles and those sent out as missionaries. Concluding with a reflection on living missionally, we encourage listeners to integrate their unique roles and circumstances into God's grand plan.

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Join us as we recount part 2 of the Smith’s compelling journey filled with divine guidance and unexpected transitions. Starting with a pastorate in Indiana, and eventually returning to the field, each step reflects their unwavering commitment to living out God's call.

Discover how they navigated the complexities of balancing family life with field work during a time filled with frequent travels and changes in assignment. Culminating with a surprising reassignment in Virginia, where they embraced new roles directing orientation for new workers.

Finally, reflect with us on the importance of faithful obedience and adaptability as we shift through different stages of the Smith's journey. Thier story is a testament to trusting in a divine plan, demonstrating how every chapter in life is interconnected and contributes to a larger mission.

Elliff Center: https://www.okbu.edu/elliff-center/index.html
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