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. 12 Trends Shaping the Future of Global Missions with the WEA

    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

    41 min
  2. The dynamics of raising children on the field

    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

    47 min
  3. The Discipleship Dilemma: Temptation & the Power of the Light (Part 2)

    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

    50 min
  4. The Discipleship Dilemma: Temptation & the Power of the Light (Part 1)

    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

    43 min
  5. The Mission Field Dilemma: Navigating Materialism & Finding Contentment

    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

    43 min
  6. Fall Catch up, Evangelism, and the return of Christ

    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

    48 min

  7. Jan 27

    Is Short-Term Missions useful?

    Summary In this episode, the hosts discuss the complexities and nuances of short-term missions, exploring their value, challenges, and the importance of cultural sensitivity. They emphasize the need for clear expectations and the potential for dependency on short-term teams, while also recognizing the benefits these missions can bring to both the participants and the communities they serve. Takeaways Short-term missions can have lasting impacts if approached correctly.Cultural sensitivity is crucial for effective mission work.Setting clear expectations is essential for short-term teams.Dependency on short-term missions can hinder local church growth.Short-term missions can inspire and enlarge a church's vision.Financial transparency is important when hosting teams.The attitude of team members can greatly affect the mission's success.Training and preparation for teams can enhance their effectiveness.Success in missions should be defined beyond just conversions.Short-term missions can provide valuable discipleship opportunities. Chapters 00:00 Introduction to Short-Term Missions 04:26 The Value of Short-Term Missions 09:19 Challenges and Criticisms of Short-Term Missions 14:04 Cultural Sensitivity and Preparation 18:24 The Dilemma of Dependency 23:07 Setting Expectations for Short-Term Teams 27:41 Conclusion and Reflections on Short-Term Missions

    42 min
  8. Biblical (il)literacy in the face of Spiritual Warfare

    Jan 13

    Biblical (il)literacy in the face of Spiritual Warfare

    Summary The conversation delves into the importance of understanding the Bible as a foundational element in spiritual warfare. It emphasizes that knowledge of scripture equips individuals to engage effectively in spiritual matters, highlighting the necessity of both understanding and action in this context. Takeaways - It's not about deifying the Bible, but recognizing its importance. - Spiritual warfare requires both knowledge and action. - Renewing our minds is essential for spiritual engagement. - Understanding the spiritual realm is crucial for effective warfare. - The Bible provides truth that is necessary for spiritual battles. - Knowledge of scripture empowers individuals in their faith. - Engaging in spiritual warfare involves practical work as well. - The conversation emphasizes a balanced approach to scripture and action. Chapters 00:00 Introduction to Bible Literacy Among Missionaries 00:32 The Impact of Character and Moral Integrity

    54 min
See All (58)

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
    58
  • Rating
    Clean
  • Copyright
    © Alessandro, Jenn, Jesse
  • Show Website
    Going: where God is at work