Worthless Servants: Recent Episodes
Mesoamerica Genesis and The Church of the Nazarene
Luke 17:1-10 talks about the importance of being a worthless servant. This is the way we view our journey with Christ. We hope to offer discussions during this bi-weekly podcast on issues about mission, culture, and the Church. Episodes are typically recorded in Santo Domingo, Dominican Republic where we serve as missionaries with the Church of the Nazarene.
In this episode, we introduce Genesis, a ministry that is impacting the cities of Latin America and the Caribbean. What does a Church that actively loves and serves her city look like? For starters, we should begin with these five characteristics…
In this episode we acknowledge that city work is inherently hard…but also rewarding. By the end, it’s clear we believe that we must truly love in order to see change in the urban jungle.
In this episode, we try to tap into the heart of God. Is there a special place in God’s heart for cities? Does the Bible have anything to say about his passion for cities?
In this episode, we talk about the growing urbanization of the world, and what difference that should make for us as Christians. The future is truly urban. But maybe the present already is as well.
After 6 consecutive years of sharing topics about missions, culture, and healthy church, the Worthless Servants say goodbye to this version of the podcast and announce some changes that might take place in the future.
Have you ever had to prophesy victory, healing, or life over a situation where there was none? This week's passage tells us of Ezekiel's classic vision of dry bones and shows us God's power to restore and bring new life.
How can we pray for missionaries and believers in Creative Access areas around the world? In this episode the cast gives us some clues. Also, without revealing names, they share stories and realities that some of these missionaries face.
The exploitation and enslavement of people is nothing new. This week's passage leaves us with a series of teachings on how obedience to God's will and the testimony of his servants brought liberation to a girl, a jailer, and an entire family.
In Acts 16, Paul, Silas, Timothy, and Luke encounter significant opposition as they share the gospel. But this time it’s God himself blocking their ministry path! Have you ever felt “forbidden by the Holy Spirit to speak the word” or minister? What could this story teach us about obedience and fulfilling God's mission?
Does society today give importance to being humble? Why is humility so essential for a Christian? In this episode, the Worthless Servants talk about this quality and share some characteristics and examples of humility, helping us to think of practical steps or actions that can help rid us of pride.
In this episode, Nathalie shares how she was challenged recently to push, “force”, and never get tired of sharing the gospel. Then, Scott somehow leads us to reflect on our leadership styles using different images of aquatic transportation.
This week Dario helps us see family time through the lens of a busy missionary travel schedule. And look out! Emily wonders when current events can be interpreted through “end times” theology and when we just need to say an earthquake is an earthquake.
https://transformtheglobe.com/2023/03/04/from-global-missions-to-missions-mobilization/
This week the Worthless Servants examine perhaps one of the most misinterpreted passages of Scripture: Psalm 22. Did God the Father really forsake Jesus on the cross? What does this psalm say to us as we approach Holy Week? As you might expect, we highlight several missional implications as well.
In this episode, two members of our cast share what’s been on their minds lately. Nathalie received a training on the famous book “Good to Great” and her main takeaway was the concept of Level 5 Leadership. Scott is excited about a new event taking place in the Dominican Republic in a few months that could have historic ramifications.
We didn’t plan it this way, but two members of our crew have been dealing with some very similar things recently. Emily starts the discussion with an analogy of how she is learning to have balance between work, family, and more. Then Dario explores what seasons and stages of life have to do with us personally and in ministry.
As a continuation of our previous episode, this time we share testimonies of transformation through "Play and Witness” and other sports initiatives. Listen to stories of people who have come to know Christ and communities impacted, and also testimonies of many who've grown in their discipleship and leadership.
A huge benefit of having Dario Richards as a part of our cast is that he is an expert in Sports Ministry! Why is this field so important? What can ministry with sports and gaming look like and what can it achieve? Why are sports uniquely positioned to reach the masses?
Scott and Emily attended and greatly enjoyed the MissioNexus Conference in 2022, and came back with some new vocabulary and insights. Join them as they highlight workshops dealing with involving Gen Z in missions and much more.
In this brief episode, Scott and Emily fill us in on new sites that we are entering with the Genesis initiative, and new missionaries who are being sent there this very month! They also take us behind the curtain to see what training and sending missionaries looks like post-pandemic.
The Church of the Nazarene recently celebrated its first Mesoamerica Regional Conference since before the pandemic, and many of the Worthless Servants were there. Listen to some of what God did in Panama, and enjoy insights from our special guest, Timmeon Spencer, as well.
This week's passage helps us to reflect on the attitude that Christians should have in the face of the difficult situations that come at us in life. The apostle Paul learned the secret of contentment in the midst of persecution, suffering, and prison. We invite you to listen to this full episode and learn what the Worthless Servants discovered as they delved into these scriptures and shared their stories.
In this episode the Worthless Servants share 7 reasons why missionaries (or any speaker) should never just show up at the worship service. Benefits such as spiritual formation, opportunities to serve the sending church, valuable time with children and youth, and the ability to engage with the community as much as possible are unlikely to be produced by “doing the minimum” and “merely” preaching a message.
In this episode we focus on a thought-provoking article written by missionary Amy Medina. She describes a trend she has seen in the Church to unconsciously categorize missionaries into different classes based on their assignments. Are some roles more mission critical than others? Is it right to value certain missionaries more for the work they do or the location where they serve? Should the church differ in the ways she endorses and supports through prayer and finances?
This week, Nathalie brings some unconventional tips that Lucas Leys recommends to any Christian desiring to maintain their "spiritual hygiene." In addition, Scott causes us to reflect on the dispersion of foreigners around our Mesoamerica Region and the great opportunity that the Church has to strategically promote the gospel throughout the world, even without having to travel to far-away nations.
This week we open up the mics to hear what some of our cast has had on their minds (and hearts) recently. Dario explores where our evangelical churches in the Caribbean are bearing fruit and where we still have work to do. Then, Emily reveals a personal project she has been involved in for the last year and how it has taught our entire family about discipleship and investing in our children.
In this episode the Worthless Servants share their stories about missionary experiences in Haiti, miracles they have seen serving in the field, how culture influences sports, and more!
In this episode, Nathalie has been thinking about ineffective leaders and their effect on those around them. How can we assure that our actions and example will end up producing more Christ-like followers? Also, what might Reuben and Judah have to do with this? Scott has been thinking about something very different: what he surprisingly learned from his family’s vacation to France.
For further reading on Third Culture Kids, we highly recommend "Third Culture Kids" by Pollock and Van Reken.
Read the Church of the Nazarene 2021 Statistics Report. You can also read Scott's blog or listen to Episode 128 of the Worthless Servants Podcast.
This week we welcome Pastor Dario Richards from Barbados to the Worthless Servants’ cast. He has been with us in previous episodes, but this time we interview him about his family, his ministry, his calling, his passions, and more. Stay tuned at the end for a description of why we are called The Worthless Servants (hint: it’s biblical)!
After 5 years and 132 episodes, AJ and Chelsea say goodbye to the Dominican Republic. Although their ministry in Latin America comes to a close, they will be starting a new chapter in another urban district. The Worthless Servants asked them to reflect on their time in the D.R. as well as what they have enjoyed or will miss the most. They may be leaving the podcast and the D.R., but they will need your good wishes and continued prayer support in the States! Stay tuned for an epic surprise at the end of the episode, as well.
This week we share our thoughts on how to improve our Bible study, how we can become genuine servants, how prayer has changed in recent times, and much more. What about you? What have you been thinking?
This week's passage challenges us to see ourselves as true athletes. The apostle Paul likens the Christian life to a great race that requires focus, perseverance, and effort to reach the finish line. What are some tips we found to successfully run this spiritual race? What is the grand prize that we will get when we win? Paul's decision to persevere steadfastly to the end, despite his earthly afflictions, cause us to ask: where did his drive come from and what were his motivations?
https://transformtheglobe.com/2022/02/22/christianity-is-more-than-just-being-a-good-person/
In this episode we share our observations on the 2021 statistical report of the Church of the Nazarene globally. How has COVID-19 impacted our denomination? What are some areas or findings that potentially alarm us or that we may need to improve? We dive into this and a whole lot more, so enjoy this episode!
In this episode, the Worthless Servants share stories about some home assignment complications, gum samples, a baby dedication gone awry, and much more.
https://careynieuwhof.com/5-simple-questions-about-the-future-every-leader-should-be-asking-right-now/
This week's passage paints a powerful image of the Kingdom of God. What truths jump out, and what did we notice? How do our personal experiences help us to apply these verses? We wrestle with these questions, even exploring what good can come from exile and how the chapter propels us in mission, as well.
Scott and Emily have recently spent a week with the missionaries sent in 2019 to plant churches in Monterrey, Mexico and Quetzaltenango, Guatemala. They have heard some amazing stories of God’s faithfulness and of community impact, and they now convey those to us. What were some of the missionary strategies that worked or didn’t work? How was it somehow possible to plant churches during a pandemic? The testimonies of victory and transformation renewed and challenged us; we hope it will be the same for you!
As we enter the new year, what do we want to take into 2022? The cast has definitely been thinking about transition, calling, risk, and the smallest mammal in the world.
https://transformtheglobe.com/2021/09/24/annual-report-of-global-missions-and-genesis-mesoamerica/
As we start the Advent season, we want to share an older episode that we still find relevant today. Enjoy! (Episode originally aired November 30, 2017)
This week’s passage holds some uncomfortable truths. Who are we as Christ-followers and what should our actions look like as such? The Worthless Servants discuss the differences between being saved by works and being saved for works. Can faith be divorced from action? Can we even “get into heaven” if we do not do good to others? What are some examples of churches effectively ministering to “the least of these brothers and sisters" of Jesus?
We’re back with more stories from the mission field! Grab a blanket and a cup of hot chocolate and relax while we share about wedding culture, sawdust carpets, and impromptu tours.
Ever wonder how to pray for a missionary more specifically? Do you ever fall into a rut as you pray for their protection and health over and over? This week we offer some tips on how to be more focused and creative in your prayer life for missions. We share a list of seven specifics to pray for or against including pride, stagnation, loneliness and more. Also, how can the acronym “BLESS" be used as a guide to praying for missionaries?
This week we share about what’s been on our minds, including Strengths Finders, grape vines, the call to serve, and more. Don’t miss out - this one went in some very interesting directions!
Fresh off their time in the U.S., Scott and Emily share their perspectives on home assignment. What is it? What was it like for their kids? How did the pandemic influence this specific year? Chelsea interviews the Armstrongs and uncovers some funny and thought-provoking stories along the way.
This year, the Mesoamerica Region of the Church of the Nazarene has been engaged in intentional mentorship training. What does mentoring look like? What has been the impact already in our Region? What are some effective ways to mentor?
This week The Worthless Servants shine new light on a familiar passage. What does this passage teach us about children in ministry, God’s limits (as if he had any), and mentoring?
https://transformtheglobe.com/2021/04/02/how-well-does-your-church-understand-the-role-of-the-pastor/
This week we reflect on mentoring, fulfilling a call, and "discovering" culture. We also remember what new missionaries think and feel in their first months in ministry.
This week is jam packed with goodies! There is so much in this passage that we don’t even know where to start. We talk about many of the applications of this text to our lives today, the power of being made "new creations," and how to be ambassadors. What stands out to you? What do you take away from this classic passage?
It’s the moment you’ve all been waiting for (maybe)! This week we tell some of our stories from the mission field. Listen as we share some funny moments as well as some impactful experiences. Our memories include gifts in other cultures, skydiving guinea pigs, and much more.
This week we share some thoughts about whales, fasting, adoption and more. What have you been thinking about?
This week's Scripture Spotlight hits the mark for several Worthless Servants. Even though it’s just 3 verses, it is packed with counter-cultural implications and a very pointed job description for Christ - and, therefore, those who follow Him. How does this relate to the Church today? How does this characterize our mission as Christians?
https://transformtheglobe.com/2021/03/19/impact-of-pandemic-on-nazarene-churches-and-pastors/
https://transformtheglobe.com/2020/09/18/keychain-leadership/
https://transformtheglobe.com/2020/09/22/how-to-start-being-a-keychain-leader/
https://transformtheglobe.com/2020/09/25/receiving-and-then-handing-over-the-keys/
https://transformtheglobe.com/2020/07/17/when-is-a-young-leader-ready-for-more-responsibility/
The global pandemic has hindered a lot of things. But it will never stop God from working. This week we’re sharing stories from all around the region about what God was able to do through His people during an event called “Mission without Limits”. This initiative sent missionaries to dozens of nearby communities to participate in a “glocal” movement. What is “glocal”? What did God do during the two weeks? Listen to find out!
We’re continuing our blast from the past, this week revisiting some great moments from episodes 51-99. Once again, thanks to all who have been on this journey with us, and we hope you enjoy these episodes with us. If you’re just joining us, we hope these episodes will give you a brief glimpse into what the Worthless Servants are all about.
After celebrating 100 episodes two weeks ago, we want to take a look at some of our best moments from episodes 1 - 50. We don’t have time to highlight everything, but if you’re new to the Worthless Servants, here are some key episodes to get you started. If you’re a long listener, enjoy taking this trip down memory lane with us!
Can you believe we’ve been doing this for 100 episodes? This time Chelsea helps us celebrate! We list some of our favorite past episodes, we play Worthless Servants Trivia, we talk with some special guests, and we share our hopes for the future. Plus, there are several surprises you won’t want to miss! Thank you all for listening and being an army of Worthless Servants!
This week we share some of our thoughts on unity, vacation, and flexibility. Natalie also shares some honest thoughts about serving in missions and taking the next step in her call. Don’t miss out on this episode and let us know what’s been on your mind!
This week's Scripture Spotlight brings us to those exiled from Jerusalem to Babylon. It is a passage that has clear missional implications for how we view our cities. How can we be the Church in our city? What does it mean to “seek the peace” of our city? What are the practical implications of this verse for us today?
This week we’ve been thinking about conformity, inner transformation, baked goods for God, and what space smells like. How does this all relate to missions? You’ll have to listen to find out!
In this episode we spotlight a classic passage of scripture that has a lot of theological and missional meaning. We talk about confessing and believing, sending, preaching, hearing, going, and so much more. What do you notice from this passage? How does it help you in your walk with Christ?
https://transformtheglobe.com/2020/08/14/netflix-is-making-it-harder-to-be-a-missionary/
There are many things in our day-to-day lives that make us think about God, missions, spirituality, religion, and much more. Why not touch on those interesting topics in one episode? This week we share what we’ve been learning about immigration, slowing down, segregation, and even finances in Africa. It’s a mixed bag of topics, but all have to do with our lives as missionaries and as Christians. What have you been thinking about?
Through 85 episodes, you may have wondered when we would highlight the Great Commission. This week is the week! However, we don’t just hit the points you’ve heard before; we also explore the context and hopefully shed a different light on this Scripture. What does it mean for us today? Is it still relevant? The Worthless Servants offer many thoughts and take-aways on this classic passage.
https://transformtheglobe.com/2018/10/22/world-evangelism-fund/
https://transformtheglobe.com/2018/10/15/wef-and-the-mesoamerica-region/
https://transformtheglobe.com/2017/07/10/towards-missional-effectiveness-the-mark-of-missional-community-part-4-of-7/
https://transformtheglobe.com/2017/12/18/not-gods-favorite/
You’ve heard her voice, her comments, and her heart. Now you can hear her story (and more)! This episode is dedicated to getting to know Nathalie Franco a little bit more. Hear her story, her call, and her answers to some not-so-serious questions.
https://transformtheglobe.com/2020/02/28/how-to-strengthen-the-church-of-the-nazarene-usa-canada-by-2030/
https://transformtheglobe.com/2020/03/03/how-to-strengthen-the-church-of-the-nazarene-usa-canada-by-2030-ii/
For this Scripture Spotlight we’re focusing on Acts 2:1-11. As we read this familiar story of Pentecost, what does it teach us about the mission of God? We tell some personal stories to help relate the modern era to the Biblical text, and we discuss several theological and missiological implications of the Spirit’s filling.
https://nazarene.org/article/board-general-superintendents-statement-coronavirus
https://www.christianitytoday.com/edstetzer/2020/march/christians-this-is-our-moment-call-to-clarity-and-mission.html
This week we look at a very popular verse. In Acts 1:8 we read about Jesus’ words to his disciples just before he leaves them. We try to put ourselves in this situation. What is the context? How does this effect our ministry and our walk with Christ? Listen as we tell personal stories and try to debunk poor theology.
One of the first missionaries to serve with the Genesis initiative was Alejandra Garcia. She’s been planting churches, building up the Church, and learning English. Now’s she’s back to help raise up the next missionaries with the Church of the Nazarene serving with Genesis. Hear her story, what she’s been doing after her time in Genesis, and what could be next for her.
We have a special treat and special visitors on the program the week: Gary and Naomi Faucett. They are the “Genesis Parents” who help take care of the missionaries who are a part of the Genesis ministry. For the last five years, the Faucetts have taken care of, encouraged, and even thrown parties for dozens of missionaries during their training, while they have been on the field, and after they return. Listen as they tell us their story, how they got involved, and what they love most about their ministry.
https://transformtheglobe.com/2019/09/17/steps-nine-and-ten-organization-and-looking-to-the-harvest-fields/
https://transformtheglobe.com/2019/09/10/step-seven-leadership-development-model-222/
https://transformtheglobe.com/2019/09/13/step-eight-corporate-worship/
https://transformtheglobe.com/2019/08/30/step-5-discipleship/
https://transformtheglobe.com/2019/09/03/step-six-the-spiritual-community/
https://transformtheglobe.com/2019/08/23/step-three-finding-making-contacts/
https://transformtheglobe.com/2019/08/27/step-four-the-process-of-evangelism/
https://transformtheglobe.com/2019/08/13/ten-practical-steps-for-planting-new-churches/
https://transformtheglobe.com/2019/08/16/step-one-intentional-prayer/
https://transformtheglobe.com/2019/08/20/step-two-planning/
After two years and 64 episodes, Freya Galindo says “adios" to the ministry in the Dominican Republic in order to start a new chapter of her life in another assignment. Listen as we recount some of our favorite moments with Freya as well as her favorite moments in ministry so far. She may be leaving the podcast and the DR but she will continue in ministry in our region, so you may hear from her more in the future!
http://www.mesoamericaregion.org/en/2019/05/hundreds-of-nazarenes-take-the-word-of-god-to-the-streets-of-santo-domingo/
The Worthless Servants take another look at scripture and this time focus on Revelation 7:9-17. They bring their thoughts and questions about a piece of scripture that is maybe not well known. Everyone has something to say about this one, each from a different perspective! Don’t miss how they apply this to our everyday lives as well as where mission and missions fit in.
https://transformtheglobe.com/2019/05/17/5-steps-that-help-church-leaders-stay-out-of-trouble/
www.danreiland.com
https://www.thegospelcoalition.org/blogs/kevin-deyoung/20-ways-to-refresh-the-hearts-of-the-missionary-saints-on-furlough/
It may be a passage you’re familiar with but also one that is often overlooked: the calling of Paul and Barnabas by God. What does this say to us today? How should the church model this behavior? The Worthless Servants talk about what impacts them the most from this passage.
http://www.nazarene.org/article/mission-briefing-contextualization
http://www.christianitytoday.com/edstetzer/2015/september/wisdom-in-contextualization-how-far-is-too-far.html
https://www.ted.com/talks/lera_boroditsky_how_language_shapes_the_way_we_think?language=es#t-85859
http://www.best-infographics.com/learning-languages-affects-brain/
http://www.vergenetwork.org/2016/02/01/how-to-stay-motivated-in-language-learning/?utm_content=buffer809ab&utm_medium=social&utm_source=twitter.com&utm_campaign=buffer
Why is language learning important in missions and ministry? How does language learning happen? How do we persevere in learning a new language when it gets hard? Stay tuned for the dramatic conclusion…
This week the Worthless Servants focus on a familiar passage of scripture. Maybe it’s a story you’ve heard before but how does it apply to missions? They share their thoughts and take a deeper dive into Genesis 12:1-3.
https://transformtheglobe.com/2018/10/22/world-evangelism-fund/
https://transformtheglobe.com/2018/10/15/wef-and-the-mesoamerica-region/
https://transformtheglobe.com/2019/02/22/ten-observations-on-the-church-of-the-nazarenes-2018-global-statistics/
https://transformtheglobe.com/2019/02/25/nine-observations-on-the-mesoamerica-regions-2018-global-statistics/
It’s the 50th episode celebration! This episode is all about you, the listener. We answer some of your questions, both serious and not so serious. This episode is also full of surprises!
https://transformtheglobe.com/2018/02/16/more-than-doing-without/
https://transformtheglobe.com/2018/02/12/a-look-at-lent/
What happens when a missionary goes on “Home Assignment”? Why is it important? What are its blessings and challenges? The Worthless Servants help us understand what it is like to travel often, be with multiple churches, raise funds, and share the vision while on home assignment. And no, it’s not a vacation!
http://www.mesoamericagenesis.org/create/2016/12/7/blankets-and-broccoli
http://www.mesoamericagenesis.org/create/2017/11/9/8-good-questions-to-evaluate-your-church-dan-reiland
https://edstetzer.com/2018/05/4-ways-to-involve-everyone-in-evangelism/
https://robprinceblog.wordpress.com/2018/05/28/when-nazarenes-believed-in-evangelism/
http://www.mesoamericagenesis.org/create/2017/9/7/are-we-more-invested-in-bringing-people-to-church-or-to-jesus-karl-vaters
http://www.mesoamericagenesis.org/create/2017/4/26/belong-believe-become-a-new-process-of-evangelism
http://www.mesoamericagenesis.org/create/2017/11/30/reaching-the-next-generation
http://www.mesoamericagenesis.org/create/2018/6/7/five-ways-to-invest-in-the-next-generation-of-leaders
http://www.mesoamericagenesis.org/create/2016/11/28/do-our-finances-reflect-gods-priorities
https://www.thegospelcoalition.org/article/3-concerns-about-pursuing-multi-ethnic-churches/
https://medium.com/redeemer-city-to-city/gifts-from-worshipping-in-a-multiethnic-urban-church-6d781ac5b651
This week we interview two missionaries that have just returned from serving for two years in Grenada. We hear about what God has been doing in the islands and how God has transformed them and the community. They tell us what has impacted them the most, what they have learned, and - most important - what the food was like. Also, you won’t want to miss their advice to those who are considering a missions call themselves.
You’ve heard from Freya and the Frys, but this week we interview the Armstrongs. You may think you already know them, but in this episode they’ll fill you in on how they met and fell in love, their call to missions, and their sanctification stories. We also find out that Scott has a deep love for bagels. Chelsea is in charge for this one, so buckle up!
https://transformtheglobe.com/2018/03/05/comparison-is-stealing-your-joy/
https://transformtheglobe.com/2018/03/07/comparison-is-stealing-your-joy-part-2-of-2/
https://www.coalicionporelevangelio.org/articulo/pastor-cuidate-del-agotamiento-espiritual/
https://transformtheglobe.com/2018/03/09/ten-observations-on-the-church-of-the-nazarenes-2017-global-statistics/
This week we are interviewing two more missionaries who are going to Panama City, Panama. Joselyn Garcia has been serving in Santiago and now will be serving two more years, but Keila is going out for the first time! They tell us all about how they got started in missions, their family backgrounds, and some of their expectations for their time as Genesis missionaries.
“Even though you think you can’t, [God] can”
— Keila Molina
This week we have a special guest! Maritza Mendoza is a new missionary from Miami (and Nicaragua before that!) serving in Querétaro, Mexico. She tells us all about her life, her ministry and preparation in Miami, and how God called her to the mission field.
“I love my son and grandson, but I have another love that is bigger than them.”
— Maritza Mendoza
After two years, five Genesis missionaries wrap up their time in Mexico and Dominican Republic. Listen as we retell their stories of culture shock, group dynamics, strategies used to reach the city, and how they have impacted the existing church and leaders. You won’t want to miss the story of a man dying of cancer and how Sugey’s call to missions was confirmed through that experience.
“The cities are different because of them!”
— Scott Armstrong
We’re celebrating our one year anniversary this week! Listen and find out more worthless facts about the Worthless Servants, some of our favorite episodes from the past year, and hear how we have seen God at work. We talk about soccer, driving, ramen noodles, and… things we can’t quite remember. Also, listen for how to get a Worthless Servants t-shirt!
“The urban church is something we’re starting to see take flame.”
— Emily Armstrong
http://www.mesoamericagenesis.org/create/2016/11/16/what-hospice-taught-me-about-teamwork