In this special episode of The Missions Show, recorded live at Missionary 2026, Alex and Scott sit down with missionary and author Paul Schlehlein to explore the cost of following Christ and the lasting impact of faithful missionaries.

Drawing from his years of ministry in Africa and his study of Scottish missionary John Paton, Paul shares how the examples of past missionaries can inspire Christians today. From Paton’s remarkable courage in the face of suffering to his commitment to preaching the gospel, Paul highlights why missionary biographies should do more than inform us, they should inspire us to act.

Paul also shares practical lessons from raising nine children on the mission field, planting churches led by local believers, and reaching communities where the gospel has yet to take root. He discusses the importance of patient evangelism, the role of family worship in raising future missionaries, and the need for more gospel workers in Africa.

• How stewardship and gratitude for God’s blessings can motivate missions
• Lessons in courage, suffering, and faithfulness from missionary John Paton
• Why missionary biographies can inspire the next generation of gospel workers
• Raising a family on the mission field and navigating the risks of missionary life
• Planting self-sustaining churches through patient evangelism and discipleship
• Why Africa still needs missionaries and the challenges of reaching underserved communities

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What does it mean to boldly proclaim the gospel in a culture that often rejects biblical truth?

In this episode of The Missions Show, hosts Alex and Scott talk with evangelist, church planter, and author Ryan Denton about recovering the art of pleading with unbelievers to repent and trust in Christ. Drawing from his experience in prison ministry, open-air preaching, and church planting, Ryan shares why direct gospel proclamation remains essential and how he has seen a growing openness to bold evangelism, especially among younger generations.

Ryan also discusses his new book, Turn, Dear Reader: The Call of Christ to a Dying World, and the importance of addressing difficult questions without losing sight of the gospel. From doubts about Scripture to cultural debates over sexuality and politics, he explains how Christians can engage thoughtfully with unbelievers while keeping the conversation focused on sin, salvation, and the hope found in Jesus Christ. This conversation challenges believers, pastors, and missionaries to proclaim the gospel with courage, compassion, and confidence in God's power to save.

• Recovering bold, biblical evangelism and the art of pleading with unbelievers
• Lessons from open-air preaching, prison ministry, and church planting
• Growing cultural openness to gospel proclamation, especially among young adults
• Addressing objections to Christianity while keeping the gospel central
• Balancing cultural understanding with a clear call to repentance and faith
• Sharing the good news of salvation through Jesus Christ

Want more of The Missions Show? Our premium content now lives on Patreon.

• Supporter ($5/month): weekly bonus shows with more in-depth conversation, behind-the-scenes content, and spiritual insights
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The Missions Show is powered by ABWE. Learn more and take your next step in the Great Commission at abwe.org.

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What does it take to go from feeling called to missions to actually reaching the field? And how can you trust God through the challenges of raising support?

In this episode of The Missions Show, hosts Alex Kocman and Scott Dunford welcome Ken Lorow, Director of PreField Ministry at ABWE, who helps prepare and coach new missionaries. Together, they discuss the steps toward missionary service, the biblical foundation for raising support, and why having someone walk alongside you can make all the difference.

Through personal stories of God's faithfulness, including a young boy's gift of two pennies, Ken shares how God uses the support-raising journey to build faith, deepen relationships, and prepare missionaries for long-term ministry. They also offer practical advice for inviting others to partner in missions and explain why prefield ministry is about much more than raising funds.

Whether you're exploring a call to missions or preparing to go, this conversation will encourage you to take the next step in faith.

• How ABWE coaches prepare and support missionaries before and after reaching the field
• Why raising financial support is biblical and an invitation to partner in God's work
• Stories of God's provision during seasons of uncertainty
• Practical tips for building relationships and inviting ministry partners
• How prefield ministry builds faith, confidence, and spiritual maturity
• The value of prayer, church partnerships, and depending on the body of Christ

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The Missions Show is powered by ABWE. Learn more and take your next step in the Great Commission at abwe.org.

Want to ask a question or suggest a topic? Email alex@missionsshow.com.