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How should we define missions and missionaries? With Matthew Ellison & Mark Matlock
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Summary
In this episode of the Urbana podcast, hosts Mark Matlock and Phoebe Jeske welcome special guest Matthew Ellison, author of When Everything Is Missions, to explore what it truly means to live out the Great Commission. The conversation reflects on the shifting definition of “missions” within the church—from the traditional understanding of cross-cultural evangelism to a broader, sometimes diluted application of the term to any kind of Christian service. Matthew also shares insights from his experience as a former missions pastor and now leader of 16:15 Outfitters, an organization dedicated to helping churches clarify and actively pursue their global mission in biblically grounded, strategic ways.
A central theme is the importance of distinguishing between “living missionally” in daily life and the unique calling of cross-cultural missionaries. Ellison argues that while all Christians are called to live on mission and be witnesses in their own communities, not everyone is a missionary in the New Testament sense; missionary is a specific role, much like pastor or deacon. He cautions against the well-intentioned but problematic view that “everyone is a missionary,” noting that such thinking can inadvertently minimize the necessity and challenge of reaching unreached people groups worldwide.
The discussion also highlights practical obstacles churches face, including leadership challenges and shifting cultural priorities, and encourages leaders to return to prayer, discernment, and focused evaluation of current mission involvement. The episode concludes with Ellison’s encouragement that deep joy comes from participating in God’s global mission and an invitation for all listeners, whether or not they feel called overseas, to actively seek their role in God’s work.
Show Notes
(00:00) Introduction
(05:32) Transforming Churches’ Missions Strategies
(08:27) Defining the Purpose of Missions
(11:31) Unintended Consequences of “Everyone's a Missionary”
(19:41) Tracing Faith Back to Apostle Thomas
(21:31) Pastors' Role in Church Missions
(24:11) Analyzing North America’s Mission Landscape
(30:18) Reevaluating Church Missions
(33:27) Experiencing Joy Through Active Participation
(35:19) Rethinking Missionary Roles
(39:05) Closing Thoughts
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