Craig Ott | Missions, Culture, and Online Education

In this episode of Christ the Center, Camden Bucey welcomes Dr. Craig Ott, professor of Mission and Intercultural Studies at Trinity Evangelical Divinity School, for an in-depth discussion on the intersection of global missions, cultural engagement, and theological education. Dr. Ott shares his experiences in church planting across Germany, his insights on missions in Eastern Europe, and the complexities of online theological education. Reflecting on his recent article, “Culture and Online Theological Education: The Democratization of Education or a New Imperialism?“, Dr. Ott explores the opportunities and challenges presented by digital learning platforms, especially in a global context.

The conversation covers topics such as the cultural implications of digital education, the need for contextualized theological training, and the importance of empowering local churches to adapt sound doctrine within their unique cultural settings. Dr. Ott also discusses broader trends in global missions and the impact of diaspora communities.

Listeners interested in missions, intercultural studies, and online theological education will find this episode both insightful and thought-provoking, offering practical wisdom on how the Reformed tradition can effectively engage with the global church.

Links

• Craig Ott, Teaching and Learning across Cultures (Baker Academic)

• 00:00:07 Introduction
• 00:04:01 Dr. Craig Ott’s Background and Experience in Missions
• 00:14:43 The Influence of Digital Cultures
• 00:26:52 Media Ecology, and the Benefits and Detriments of Online Education
• 00:45:04 Cohort Models
• 00:52:45 Diversity in the Body of Christ
• 01:01:33 Current Challenges and Encouraging Aspects of Contemporary Missions
• 01:10:17 Conclusion