Going: where God is at work

Alessandro, Jenn, Jesse
  • 5.0 (4)
  • Christianity
  • Updated Weekly

Going: Where God is at Work is a Podcast that sits at the intersection of mission theory and practice. We are building a community of Great Commission workers who long to see the Gospel spread to the ends of the earth; and, are also convinced that our engagement with God’s mission in the world demands cooperation with God’s transformational process in us. Our conversations examine the why, the how, and the heart of cross-cultural ministry with a hope of providing both information and inspiration to equip modern missionaries for the work to which they were called.

  1. Jul 8

    Apprenticeship and the Road to Emmaus: Rethinking How We Disciple

    Discover how relational, incarnational, and investment-driven discipleship is essential in fulfilling the Great Commission, especially in cross-cultural and local ministry. This episode emphasizes that discipleship is a lifelong, participatory journey that requires intentionality and relational depth.Main Topics & Insights: Discipleship as a lifelong process that begins before conversion and continues through community involvement.Measuring discipleship: obedience as a key metric, not just numbers of conversions or baptisms.The importance of relational, incarnational methods such as walking alongside and sharing meals, modeled on Luke 24.Practical ways to foster discipleship: apprenticeships, retreats, ongoing cohorts, and personal investment.The need for church and mission cultures to normalize discipleship as part of everyday life, not just structured programs.The significance of asking intentional questions and setting aside dedicated times for discipleship.Encouragement to be disciple-makers with humility: “You don’t have to be an expert”—impart what you know.Discipleship involves a reciprocal process of maturing, where sometimes the disciple becomes the teacher.Discipleship as a process of deliberate investment—time, relationship, and intentionality—costs but yields eternal rewards.Digital and cultural shifts call for more active, relational approaches to discipling in a digital age.Timestamps:00:00 - The importance of patience in walking the discipleship journey02:00 - Discipleship as an ongoing, lifelong spectrum03:35 - Differentiating evangelism, church planting, and discipleship04:31 - Discipleship as obedience—measuring spiritual growth05:29 - Personal story: witnessing a friend's faith journey06:45 - The relational depth of discipleship and mutual investment07:14 - The challenge of metrics versus real transformation08:10 - Learning from apprenticeship shadowing in seminary09:58 - Practical insights from ministry shadowing experiences11:03 - The role of experiential, on-the-ground learning12:30 - The value of apprentice programs and intentional growth spaces13:27 - Creating community through apprenticeships and digital cohorts15:01 - Engaging different generations and new believers16:34 - Embodying incarnational, “with” presence in discipleship17:24 - The influence of digital media on discipleship and intentionality18:24 - Being aware of what and who is discipling us19:17 - The importance of personal relationship and context in discipleship20:39 - Discipleship as a humble, investment-driven process25:08 - The ongoing need for mutual learning and humility in discipleship27:49 - Navigating authority, mentorship, and mutual growth29:39 - The significance of cultural exchange through intentional connection32:50 - How to ask good questions and define personal and spiritual growth33:47 - Building a discipling culture within churches and communities35:07 - Luke 24 and the Incarnational model of close, curious engagement37:09 - Life-on-life, sharing meals and everyday moments37:39 - The power of investment and intentionality in discipleship38:55 - Interactive practice: active obedience and application40:26 - Closing thoughts: discipleship as an investment with eternal returns

    Apprenticeship and the Road to Emmaus: Rethinking How We Disciple

  2. Jul 7

    Missions on the Move: How the Global Majority is Shaping the Church

    Discipleship in Missions: Walking with Others in Life-on-Life InvestmentIn this episode, Jesse Pauly, Alessandro Di Leonardo, and Jenn Williamson explore the dynamic and relational nature of discipleship within the context of missions and church planting. They emphasize that discipleship is more than a curriculum—it's a life-on-life journey that requires intentionality, relational investment, and incarnational presence. Key Topics: The relational and incarnational model of discipleship exemplified through Luke 24 and walking alongside others.The importance of asking intentional questions and practicing active listening in disciple-making.Discipleship as an ongoing investment that involves time, patience, and humility.Practical ways to integrate discipleship into everyday life, including apprenticeships and small group walks.The role of church culture in normalizing discipleship and fostering a disciple-making environment.Personal stories of observing God's work in others and the significance of relational obedience.Challenges of measuring discipleship progress and the importance of obedience over quantifiable metrics.The value of being discipled by others and actively seeking people ahead, alongside, and behind in faith.How digital resources and content complement but do not replace relational discipleship.The cultural importance of apprenticeship and a legacy of patience and skill transfer. Timestamps: 00:00 - Introducing the episode and the importance of patience in discipleship02:00 - Relativity of missions and global connectedness06:45 - Defining discipleship beyond measurable metrics09:00 - Personal stories of obedience and faith journeys in Italy and beyond12:00 - The significance of apprenticeship and on-the-ground mentorship15:00 - Digital discipleship and maintaining personal relationships17:24 - The role of daily digital content in modern discipleship20:11 - Investing time in relational, incarnational discipleship—an Italian artisan's legacy24:34 - The challenge of satisfaction with curricula and the ongoing need for mentorship25:08 - Balancing up, down, and peer relationships in discipleship30:09 - The importance of incarnational, life-on-life discipleship37:09 - Cultivating a culture of discipleship within the church or mission setting38:55 - The value of interactive, engagement-based discipleship and reflection on investmentResources & Links:Connect with the hosts:

    Missions on the Move: How the Global Majority is Shaping the Church

  3. May 26

    12 Trends Shaping the Future of Global Missions with the WEA

    Summary This podcast explores the evolving landscape of global missions, the impact of technology, trust issues with NGOs, and the shifting role of the church in a changing world. Featuring insights from mission leaders and missiologists, it offers a deep dive into current trends and future opportunities for mission work. WEA Article Jamie's Website Lausanne Movement Key Topics Mission trends and forecastingThe end of the NGO era and trust issuesThe role of technology and AI in missionsThe shift of Christian populations to the global southRelational and human aspects of digital outreach Chapters 00:00 Digital Relationships and Their Impact 05:34 Exploring Mission Trends and Perspectives 11:28 The End of the NGO Era 19:25 Funding Challenges in Missions 25:07 Technology's Role in Modern Missions

    12 Trends Shaping the Future of Global Missions with the WEA

  4. May 19

    The dynamics of raising children on the field

    Summary This episode explores the complex realities of living and leading as a family overseas, highlighting challenges like bureaucracy, language barriers, and cultural expectations. It emphasizes the importance of community, vulnerability, and internal growth in navigating family life in a foreign context. Action items: Build community and seek support in your mission journeyPractice vulnerability with your family and communityAddress internal conflicts openly and honestly Chapters 00:00 Introduction and Guest Introduction 00:51 Personal Stories: Sleep and Pets 01:53 Water Outage and Daily Challenges 02:47 Family Life and Cultural Challenges 03:42 Driver's License and Transportation Issues 05:58 Language Barriers and Personal Growth 06:53 Launching Kids and Family Support 07:58 Dealing with Bureaucracy and Legalities 13:32 Family Identity and Cultural Expectations 17:13 Marriage, Opportunities, and Comparison 20:17 Cultural Expectations and Gender Roles 23:15 Internal Conflicts and Community Support 26:01 Vulnerability, Honesty, and Growth 29:56 External Ministry and Personal Transparency 32:33 Building Trust and Openness in Discipleship 34:38 Relatability and Sharing Struggles 37:38 Key Takeaways: Community and Vulnerability 38:34 Practical Advice for Missionary Families

    The dynamics of raising children on the field

  5. Apr 7

    The Discipleship Dilemma: Temptation & the Power of the Light (Part 2)

    In this follow-up to their discussion on "taboo" missionary topics, host Jesse and co-hosts Alessandro and Jenn dive deep into the practical—and often painful—process of responding to sin on the mission field. The team moves beyond the theory of temptation to discuss the "three-fold combo" of restoration: conviction, confession, and repentance. By sharing personal stories of "small" sins—ranging from exaggerating stories in the pulpit to minor dishonesties in professional calls—they illustrate how unaddressed compromises can callous the heart and lead to greater moral failures. The conversation emphasizes that while the Holy Spirit empowers change, missionaries must proactively build "escape plans" and accountability structures to protect their witness and the longevity of their ministry. Takeaways Recognize and respond immediately to conviction from the Holy Spirit. Confession involves agreeing with God's view of sin, not just admitting it. Repentance is a continuous process, not a one-time event. Having a plan for dealing with sin helps prevent moral failure. Accountability and community support are vital for spiritual health. Chapters 00:00 Introduction to Conviction and Vulnerability 03:09 Sharing Personal Struggles with Sin 05:58 The Impact of Exaggeration and Misrepresentation 09:00 Addressing Moral Failures in Leadership 11:47 Understanding Conviction and Its Importance 14:47 The Process of Confession and Repentance 17:49 Recognizing and Responding to Conviction 20:59 Barriers to Acknowledging Conviction 24:01 Understanding Conviction and Confession 36:28 The Process of Repentance 44:47 The Importance of Accountability in Ministry

    The Discipleship Dilemma: Temptation & the Power of the Light (Part 2)

  6. Mar 17

    The Discipleship Dilemma: Temptation & the Power of the Light (Part 1)

    In this episode of Going Where God is at Work, Jesse, Alessandro, and Jen move into the "taboo" territory of temptation. Far from being superhuman, ministry leaders and missionaries face unique pressures that can lead to isolation and moral failure. The team discusses the "creature comforts" that tempt them; from technology and Netflix to chocolate and cocktails; and explores why the mission field often lacks the structures for deep accountability. Most importantly, they highlight the spiritual freedom found in bringing internal battles into the light. What is Spiritual Direction? The Fib from Outerspace Video Resources on Membercare Takeaways Temptation loses its power when spoken out.Isolation can lead to poor decision-making.Community support is crucial for accountability.Missionaries face unique struggles due to distance and lack of structure.Confession can be a powerful tool for healing.Building trust takes time and effort.Fasting can help break the hold of temptation.It's important to address the roots of temptation, not just the symptoms.Finding a supportive community is essential for spiritual health.Temptations are common and should be openly discussed. Chapters 00:00 Introduction to Temptations in Ministry 02:26 Personal Temptations and Accountability 04:44 The Role of Community in Facing Temptations 07:16 Understanding the Struggles of Missionaries 09:56 The Impact of Isolation on Decision Making 12:40 Bringing Temptations into the Light 15:11 External Implications of Temptations in Ministry 17:25 Navigating Relationships and Accountability 20:08 The Importance of Confession and Support 22:43 Leveraging Struggles for Ministry Growth 25:32 Practical Steps for New Missionaries 27:57 The Spiritual Aspect of Temptations 30:30 Conclusion and Future Discussions

    The Discipleship Dilemma: Temptation & the Power of the Light (Part 1)

  7. Mar 16

    The Mission Field Dilemma: Navigating Materialism & Finding Contentment

    Summary In this episode of the 'Going Where God Is' podcast, hosts Jesse, Alessandro, and Jenn delve into the complex topic of materialism, particularly as it relates to missionaries and their experiences abroad. They discuss how the holiday season often amplifies materialistic desires, leading to a struggle between the need for basic comforts and the temptation to indulge in excess. The conversation highlights personal anecdotes about the challenges of finding familiar products in foreign countries and how these small disappointments can reflect deeper heart issues regarding expectations and contentment. The hosts explore the balance between being good stewards of resources and the dangers of materialism, emphasizing the importance of understanding one's motivations behind spending. They share personal stories of financial struggles and the transformative experience of a 'no buy year,' which led to a renewed perspective on contentment and generosity. Ultimately, the episode encourages listeners to reflect on their relationship with material possessions and to seek fulfillment in their faith rather than in material goods. Blog on Materialism Film on Minimalism (Non Christian) Article on "No Buy Year" (Non Christian) Takeaways Materialism can create discontent and frustration.The holiday season often amplifies materialistic desires.Small disappointments can indicate larger heart issues.Contentment is a learned behavior, as Paul mentions in Philippians.Practicing generosity can recalibrate our hearts towards materialism. Chapters 00:00 Introduction to Materialism 01:59 The Holiday Season and Materialism 08:50 Small Disappointments and Heart Issues 17:11 Personal Stories of Financial Struggles 27:18 Practical Ways to Combat Materialism 37:08 Conclusion: Finding Fulfillment Beyond Material Goods

    The Mission Field Dilemma: Navigating Materialism & Finding Contentment

  8. Feb 3

    Fall Catch up, Evangelism, and the return of Christ

    Summary In this episode, the hosts reflect on their personal experiences, challenges, and gratitude in the context of their mission work. They discuss the importance of community support during difficult times, share insights from the World Evangelical Alliance Assembly, and explore the dynamics of cultural diversity and hospitality in missions. The conversation emphasizes the significance of personal stories and the need for careful communication in ministry, while also teasing future topics related to dilemmas faced in missions. Takeaways You don't want to just repeat something that people already know.Gratitude can emerge from challenging situations.Travel experiences often teach valuable lessons.Community support is crucial during difficult times.Tragedy can lead to deeper thankfulness.Diversity in missions enriches the experience.Careful communication is essential in ministry.Personal stories can have a profound impact.Conferences can provide unexpected insights.Expecting to learn can enhance the value of experiences. Chapters 00:00 Introduction and Personal Updates 02:42 Reflections on Gratitude and Challenges 05:34 Travel Experiences and Lessons Learned 08:20 Navigating Difficult Times and Community Support 10:45 The Intersection of Tragedy and Thankfulness 13:39 Insights from the World Evangelical Alliance Assembly 16:21 Cultural Diversity and Hospitality in Missions 19:07 The Role of Women and Minorities in Missions 21:46 Reflections on Conference Dynamics and Learning 24:36 The Importance of Personal Stories in Ministry 27:16 Future Directions and Upcoming Topics

    Fall Catch up, Evangelism, and the return of Christ
See All (60)

Ratings & Reviews

5
out of 5
4 Ratings

About

Going: Where God is at Work is a Podcast that sits at the intersection of mission theory and practice. We are building a community of Great Commission workers who long to see the Gospel spread to the ends of the earth; and, are also convinced that our engagement with God’s mission in the world demands cooperation with God’s transformational process in us. Our conversations examine the why, the how, and the heart of cross-cultural ministry with a hope of providing both information and inspiration to equip modern missionaries for the work to which they were called.

Information

  • Creator
    Alessandro, Jenn, Jesse
  • Years Active
    2024 - 2026
  • Episodes
    60
  • Rating
    Clean
  • Copyright
    © Alessandro, Jenn, Jesse
  • Show Website
    Going: where God is at work