Imaginatively Missional
What happens when a faithful church—commended by Jesus Himself—becomes the birthplace of one of the most controversial movements in early Christianity? In this episode of the Ephesiology Podcast, we journey to ancient Philadelphia in Asia Minor, a “gateway city” shaped by competing religious forces and cultural pressures. With limited archaeological data but rich literary and …
Continue reading "Episode 222: When Faithfulness Meets Distortion"
What if we’ve misunderstood one of Jesus’ most familiar commands? In this episode of the Ephesiology Podcast, a simple but unsettling shift is explored: not “make disciples,” but disciple as you are going. Drawing from a recent conversation between Dr. Tony Blair and Michael, Andrew and Michael reflect on how a closer reading of the Great …
What happens when a movement that once presented the hope of Christ in a city… disappears? In this episode of the Ephesiology Podcast, Andrew and Michael take you into the ruins of Pergamon—walking through the Asclepius healing complex, standing beneath the shadow of the Zeus–Trajan temple, and tracing inscriptions that once defined the religious life …
Continue reading "Episode 220: The Disappearance of Christianity"
On this episode of the Ephesiology Podcast, we explore how archaeology, missiology, and the text of Luke-Acts converge to suggest that Theophilus may have been closer to the story than we’ve ever imagined. Drawing from the archaeological record—from inscriptions in the prytaneion to the civic roles of the Kouretes and temple officials—we explore a compelling …
What if the greatest barrier to kingdom collaboration isn’t theology—but ego? In this episode, we sit down with leaders from GACX (Global Alliance for Church Multiplication) to explore a radically different vision of partnership—one that doesn’t begin with “what do I gain?” but with “what can I give?” From global church planting networks to theological …
Continue reading "Episode 218: Kingdom Collaboration with GACX"
In this episode of the Ephesiology Podcast, Andrew Johnson shares an update as the podcast enters a short hiatus. While the hosts are away on assignment, Andrew invites you to revisit the rich archive of over 200 episodes—conversations that continue to challenge, encourage, and shape how we do theology in community. Looking ahead to 2026, …
In this episode of the Ephesiology Podcast, Andrew Johnson, Michael, and guest Lance Ford delve into the themes of church leadership, the disconnect between leadership and the body of Christ, and the systemic issues that plague modern church structures. They discuss the impact of Lance's book, 'The Atlas Factor,' which emphasizes the need for a …
Continue reading "Episode 216: A Shift in Leadership Paradigms with Lance Ford"
In this episode of the Ephesiology podcast, Andrew, Michael, and Matt are visited again by Mark Thiessen Nation, exploring the profound impact of Dietrich Bonhoeffer's life and writings on contemporary Christianity. In this episode, our hosts talk to Mark about the dangers of nationalism within the church. They discuss the importance of robust discipleship, the …
Continue reading "Episode 215: Bonhoeffer and Nationalism with Mark Thiessen Nation"
In this episode of the Ephesiology Podcast, Andrew Johnson, Michael, and Matt Till engage with Dr. Steve Bezner, exploring the implications of Bonhoeffer's theology for contemporary church leadership. They discuss the importance of maintaining a distinct Christian identity in a politically charged environment, the role of pastors in shepherding their congregations, and the need for …
Continue reading "Episode 214: Bonhoeffer the Pastor with Steve Bezner"
In this episode of the Ephesiology podcast, Andrew, Matt, and Michael welcome Watson Jones III, an executive pastor in Chicago, to discuss the current climate of shepherding in the city. They explore the challenges faced by the church in light of social issues, the historical context of the church's role in society, and the shifts …
Continue reading "Episode 213: Ministering in Chicago with Watson Jones III"
In this episode of the Ephesiology podcast, Andrew, Michael, and Matt engage with Dr. Wes Watkins to explore the dynamics of church movements, the importance of understanding movements in a contemporary context, and the integration of Motus Dei with Missio Dei. They discuss the characteristics of movements, the role of the Holy Spirit, and the …
Continue reading "Episode 212: Reactivating the Church as Movement"
In this episode of the Ephesiology Podcast, Dr. Ralph Korner discusses the concept of ekklesia, its historical context, and its implications for the modern church. He emphasizes the importance of community, social justice, and the church's role in society, arguing against a separatist mentality and advocating for active engagement with the world. The conversation explores …
Continue reading "Episode 211: Rethinking Ekklesia with Dr. Ralph Korner"
In this episode of the Ephesiology Podcast, Andrew, Matt, and Michael engage in a deep conversation with Mark Thiessen Nation about the life and works of Dietrich Bonhoeffer. They explore Bonhoeffer's stance on pacifism, the influence of Eberhard Bethge, and the misrepresentation of Bonhoeffer in popular media. The discussion delves into the complexities of Bonhoeffer's …
Continue reading "Episode 210: Unpacking Bonhoeffer’s Legacy with Mark Thiessen Nation"
In this episode of the Ephesiology Podcast, Andrew, Michael, and Matt discuss the rise of end times predictions, particularly through social media platforms like TikTok. They explore the implications of these predictions, the historical context of prophecy, and the importance of focusing on Jesus' mission rather than sensationalism. The conversation also touches on the dangers …
On this episode of the Ephesiology Podcast, we mark a milestone of change, transition, and reflection. Michael and Andrew reunite—this time from across international borders—as Andrew shares the exciting news of his move from Houston, Texas to Victoria, British Columbia. Hear the backstory behind his new pastoral role at West Village Church, a Soma-affiliated community passionate about …
Continue reading "Episode 206: Where in the World is Andrew?"
On this episode of The 10-Minute Ephesiologist, Dr. Michael T. Cooper dives into the moment when movement gives way to rest—and when productivity in ministry gives rise to the deeper call of theological formation. After four years of relentless church planting in post-communist Romania, with seven churches launched and national leaders in place, Michael and Loré sensed …
In this compelling episode of the Ephesiology Podcast, we continue our Archaeology Meets Missiology series with a deep dive into Tel Dan—one of Israel's most significant archaeological sites. Dr. Jonathan Greer, archaeologist and biblical scholar, joins Andrew and Michael to discuss what the material record of Tel Dan reveals about ancient Israelite worship, the North-South …
Continue reading "Episode 204: Bronze Age Worship with Dr. Jonathan Greer"
What if an ancient inscription could confirm a biblical figure's existence—or even affirm the earliest Christian belief in Jesus as God? In this powerful of the Ephesiology Podcast, Michael and Andrew welcome field archaeologist Dr. Titus Kennedy to explore the intersections of archaeology and Scripture. From unearthing altars and human remains to discovering a seal …
Continue reading "Episode 203: Digging into the Faith with Dr. Titus Kennedy"
After nearly four decades of research and patient anticipation, biblical scholar Dr. Clint Arnold joins the Ephesiology Podcast to reflect on his life’s work in the ancient city of Colossae—a city long buried but rich in theological relevance. In this fascinating episode, Dr. Arnold shares the backstory behind his groundbreaking scholarship on Colossians and Ephesians, …
Continue reading "Episode 202: A Look at Colossae and Colossians with Dr. Clinton Arnold"
What happens when ancient roads, buried ruins, and early Christian communities collide with the modern missionary imagination? In this episode of the Ephesiology Podcast, Dr. Mark Wilson—renowned scholar and director of the Asia Minor Research Center—joins Michael and Andrew for a captivating journey where archaeology meets missiology. From walking the same Roman roads as the …
Continue reading "Episode 201: The Roman Roads with Dr. Mark Wilson"
Welcome to the 200th episode of the Ephesiology Podcast and our series Christ in Your Context, where we explore why Jesus is good news—right where you are. In this milestone conversation, we’re joined by theologian, pastor, and cultural exegete Dr. David E. Fitch. Together, we unpack the complex cultural moment we inhabit and why presence—not programs—may …
Continue reading "Episode 200: Presence Based Witness with David E. Fitch"
On this episode of The Ephesiology Podcast, Andrew and Michael are joined by Brad Brisco, missional strategist and leading voice in co-vocational church planting. Brad shares insights from decades of experience mobilizing church planters, and why the growing reality of co-vocational leadership is not just a necessity—but a strategic, theological return to how the early church engaged in mission. From …
Continue reading "Episode 199: Covocational Missionary Living with Brad Brisco"
Is AI helping us flourish as humans—or quietly unraveling the very things that make us human in the first place? In this episode of the Ephesiology Podcast, ethicist and cultural commentator Dr. C. Ben Mitchell joins Michael and Andrew for a deeply reflective conversation on artificial intelligence, ethics, embodiment, and what it means to bear God’s …
Continue reading "Episode 198: Grappling with Artificial Intelligence with C. Ben Mitchell"
On this episode of The Ephesiology Podcast, Andrew and Michael talk with Dr. Danny Hays, Professor Emeritus of Biblical Studies at Ouachita Baptist University and expert in Old Testament and archaeology. They explore the fascinating world of early Christian graffiti, focusing particularly on the Ichthus Christogram—an eight-spoked symbol etched into ancient marble as a bold declaration of …
Continue reading "Episode 197: Christograms and Christian Graffiti with Dr. Daniel Hays"
On this episode of The Ephesiology Podcast, Andrew and Michael talk with Dr. Mark Fairchild, retired professor of Bible and Religion at Huntington University and renowned biblical archaeologist. They explore one of the most fascinating discoveries in early Christian history: the underwater basilica of Nicaea. Together, they unpack the rich spiritual and historical significance of ancient …
Continue reading "Episode 196: The Underwater Bascilica with Dr. Mark Fairchild"
On this episode of The Ephesiology Podcast, Andrew and Michael sit down Dr. Emanuel Prinz—researcher, author, practitioner, professor, and soon-to-be PhD in International Theological Education. With stories of rebel leaders laying down their weapons and whole villages turning to Christ, Emanuel invites us into a world where communal conversion, catalytic leadership, and the slow work of …
Continue reading "Episode 195: What Actually Starts Movements with Emanuel Prinz"
On this episode of The Ephesiology Podcast, Andrew and Michael dive into the soil, stones, and stories of Asia Minor to uncover how the early church lived out its faith amid empire, beauty, and persecution. Join us as we welcome guests Michelle Wegner, Dave Brunelle, and Wade Mantlo—fellow travelers who recently returned from a transformative archaeological …
Continue reading "Episode 194: Researching Missiology and Archaeology"
On this episode of The Ephesiology Podcast, Andrew and Michael sit down with a church planter and missional leader in Canada to discuss what it means to plant churches in one of the most secular cities in Canada—Victoria, British Columbia. He shares his journey from planting a Soma church in the suburbs to moving into an …
Continue reading "Episode 192: Planting Churches in Post-Christian Canada"
On this episode of The Ephesiology Podcast, Andrew and Michael are joined by Kathy Richards Bhatia, Regional Director for the Middle East and North Africa at She Is Safe. Kathy shares her extraordinary journey—growing up in the Middle East, witnessing war firsthand, and carrying on her family's legacy of peace and presence among the world's most marginalized. …
Continue reading "Episode 193: Good News for the Vulnerable with Kathy Richards Bhatia"
On this episode of the Ephesiology Podcast, Andrew and Michael are joined again by Pastor Caleb Campbell, author of Disarming Leviathan: Loving Your Christian Nationalist Neighbor as they discuss what it means to be the Church in a moment of extreme political and cultural division? Together, they wrestle with the pastoral challenges of shepherding congregations split …
As The Ephesiology Podcast kicks off its 2025 season, we find ourselves reflecting on an unexpected journey—190 episodes deep into conversations about theology, culture, and the mission of God. What started as a simple idea to explore the themes of Ephesiology has evolved into a global dialogue, connecting like-minded thinkers, pastors, and missiologists who long to see the church …
Merry Christmas and Happy Advent! In this final Ephesiology Podcast episode of 2024, Andrew and Michael reflect on the joy and meaning of the Christmas season, share highlights from the year—including the Make Disciples series, the success of the PhD Scholarship Drive, and exciting updates like a forthcoming Spanish translation of Ephesiology—and offer a glimpse into 2025 plans, including new …
On this episode of the Ephesiology Podcast, Andrew and Michael are stepping into something truly transformative: an opportunity to empower global theological education. Michael returns from an exciting research trip to Asia Minor, sharing insights about the early church while introducing an unprecedented initiative—providing scholarships for PhD students in the Majority World to equip and raise …
On this episode of The 10-Minute Ephesiologist, Dr. Michael T. Cooper unpacks the challenges missionaries face when theological education feels too academic or even pride-inducing, leaving them unprepared for real-world ministry. Dr. Cooper proposes a new, balanced approach to training—one that blends intellectual depth with practical skills and a humble heart for service. Could this model …
In this episode of the Ephesiology Podcast, Andrew and Michael conclude a multi-part series entitled This Political Moment with author and pastor Caleb Campbell. His recent book, Disarming Leviathan, discusses the complexities of Christian nationalism. Caleb shares the journey behind his book, opening up about his struggle with cultural polarization within his church and the relational …
Continue reading "Episode 186: Caleb Campbell’s Disarming Leviathan"
In this episode of the Ephesiology Podcast, Andrew and Michael continue a multi-part series entitled This Political Moment by exploring the kingdom of God and its political implications. We are joined once more by retired missionary Dr. Ron Hesselgrave and missionary Jim Baker for the final discussion in the series . Together, they explore Patrick …
Continue reading "Episode 185: The Way of the Lion and the Lamb"
In this episode of the Ephesiology Podcast, Andrew and Michael continue a multi-part series This Political Moment by exploring of the kingdom of God and its political implications. Joined again by Dr. Ron Hesselgrave and Jim Baker, the discussion takes a deep dive into Patrick Schreiner's Political Gospel: Public Witness in a Politically Crazy World. …
Continue reading "Episode 184: Reimagining Politics with the Early Church"
In this episode of the Ephesiology Podcast, Andrew and Michael continue a multi-part series This Political Moment by exploring of the kingdom of God and its political implications. Kicking off with a discussion on "Reimagining Politics with Jesus" they are joined by guests Dr. Ron Hesselgrave and Jim Baker, veteran missionaries and scholars. Their conversation …
Continue reading "Episode 183: Reimagining Politics with Jesus"
On this episode of the Ephesiology Podcast, Andrew and Michael are joined by special guest Steve Besner, senior pastor of Houston Northwest Church. Steve's insights on how the church can navigate today's divisive political landscape are both timely and profound. He shares his motivation behind his recent book Your Jesus is Too American, exploring how …
On this episode of the Ephesiology Podcast, we dive into the complexity of engaging with politics while keeping our focus on Jesus and His mission. Join Andrew and Michael as they introduce a new series focusing on why, despite the overwhelming political climate, the church must resist being swayed by culture. Expect thought-provoking discussions on …
On this Ephesiology Podcast, Andrew and Michael wrap up our 12-week series Innovative Disruption: Recalibrating Our Mission to the Movement of God. This final episode explores the culmination of our journey—redefining how we think about mission by starting with God's mission on moving to people. We'll unpack the importance of remaining curious about what God is doing …
On this Ephesiology Podcast, Andrew and Michael conclude the discussion on the concept of adaptive ecclesiology by exploring how the early church adapted to various cultural contexts while preserving its core meaning. Join us as we examine the crucial distinction between form and meaning, and how adapting the church to different cultures can help it …
On this Ephesiology Podcast, Andrew and Michael dive more deeply into adaptive ecclesiology, discussing how the Church can mirror Christ in every culture. We’ll explore how the early Church adapted to its cultural contexts—and what that means for us today. Stay with us as we unpack how churches can move from captive methodologies to adaptive, …
On this Ephesiology Podcast, Andrew and Michael begin to explore the concept of adaptive ecclesiology, challenging the traditional view of the church as a static institution. They dive into how the early church, rooted in the teachings of Jesus, adapted to different cultural contexts, showing that the true essence of the ekklesia is the gathering …
On this Ephesiology Podcast, Andrew and Michae lcontinue our journey through the series Innovative Disruption: Recalibrating Our Mission to the Movement of God. In this eighth episode, Michael and Andrew delve into the final part of missiological theology.They discuss the evolving nature of theology, shaped by cultural contexts and the need for curiosity, wonder, and discovery …
Continue reading "Episode 176: Missiological Theology, Part 3"
On this Ephesiology Podcast, Andrew and Michael delve deeper into missiological theology, which integrates Biblical, systematic, and historical theologies to understand how scriptural principles apply in today's cultural context. This approach isn’t about creating a new theology but viewing historic concepts through a missiological lens to ensure they resonate with contemporary culture in meaningful language. …
Continue reading "Episode 175: Missiological Theology, Part 2"
On this Ephesiology Podcast, Andrew and Michael explore the concept of missiological theology, emphasizing its distinction from biblical, systematic, and historical theologies. They discuss how missiological theology applies a mission-focused lens to scripture, theology, and church practice, and how it adapts to different cultural contexts. The conversation highlights the early church's role in developing theology …
Continue reading "Episode 174: Missiological Theology, Part 1"
On this Ephesiology Podcast, Andrew and Michael delve into the foundational importance of Christology within the context of innovative disruption. Emphasizing a return to understanding who Jesus is and how He defines Himself, they explore the implications of Christological clarity for mission and ecclesiology. Drawing from biblical texts and theological reflection, they discuss how a …
Continue reading "Episode 173: The Christology of our Mission"
On this Ephesiology Podcast, Andrew and Michael continue emphasizing how important it is for us to understand Jesus primarily from who He describes Himself to be. Unpacking the paradigm of Christiology-Missiology-Ecclesiology, our podcasters discuss how our view of Jesus informs the manner in which we engage the world and what His people look like as …
On this Ephesiology Podcast, Andrew and Michael continue to discuss what a reorientation to Jesus looks like. While John the apostle describes Jesus in awesome language in Revelation 1, Jesus uses the same language to introduce Himself to the seven churches. So, not only does Jesus encourage John with the words, "Fear not, I am …
On this Ephesiology Podcast, Andrew and Michael discuss what a reorientation to Jesus looks like. Of primary importance is seeing Jesus for who He is right at this moment. They look at the penchant of the first disciples for creating Jesus in their image. Then, by focusing on the only book in the Bible that …
On this Ephesiology Podcast, Andrew and Michael introduce a 10 week series focused on innovative disruption. In this introduction to the series, our podcasters discuss what exactly they mean by disruption as they begin to lead us to think innovatively about what we learn from the early Christ-followers. Meaningful innovation begins with reorienting to Jesus. …
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