<![CDATA[Gospel-Centered]]>https://www.gospelcenteredmentoring.sitehttps://substackcdn.com/image/fetch/$s_!xd_X!,w_256,c_limit,f_auto,q_auto:good,fl_progressive:steep/https%3A%2F%2Fsubstack-post-media.s3.amazonaws.com%2Fpublic%2Fimages%2Ff3eed106-07cf-495d-8068-f283c31a277a_1020x1020.pngGospel-Centeredhttps://www.gospelcenteredmentoring.siteSubstackFri, 08 May 2026 10:27:30 GMT<![CDATA[Three Book Releases This Year!]]>https://www.gospelcenteredmentoring.site/p/three-book-releases-this-yearhttps://www.gospelcenteredmentoring.site/p/three-book-releases-this-yearTue, 14 Apr 2026 15:02:56 GMTDear friends,

Thank you for your ongoing support of my books and my blog. God has blessed me so richly to be able to publish three books just this year. “Reflecting on his Grace,” a new Lutheran devotional resource, launched recently in hardcover, paperback, and Kindle. Two more books, “Being People of the Promise” (co-authored with my brother, Pastor Brian Doebler) and “Gospel-Centered Mentoring,” will be released this Fall and are both available for pre-order on Amazon.

Find them all on my Amazon author page here.

Subscribe now

Share

Leave a comment

]]><![CDATA[A New Lutheran Devotional Resource]]>https://www.gospelcenteredmentoring.site/p/a-new-lutheran-devotional-resourcehttps://www.gospelcenteredmentoring.site/p/a-new-lutheran-devotional-resourceThu, 09 Apr 2026 15:03:08 GMTAvailable here!

Deepen your daily walk with Christ through the timeless wisdom of the Bible and the Lutheran faith.

Reflecting on His Grace is a 31-day devotional designed to anchor your heart in God’s Word and Luther’s Small Catechism. Each day follows a rich, liturgical pattern of Rejoice, Repent, Realign, and Request, guiding you through:

  • Scripture & Catechism: Daily readings from the Psalms, Gospels, and Luther’s Small Catechism.

  • Ancient Heritage: Heartfelt prayers and hymns from faith ancestors like Martin Luther and Paul Gerhardt.

  • Personal Reflection: Thoughtful prompts to help you apply the law and gospel to your daily life.

Whether you have five minutes or forty-five every day, this book offers a flexible, grace-filled journey to help you rest in Christ’s promises and reflect His love to the world.

Reclaim the beauty of your heritage—one day at a time.

Available here!

Subscribe now

Share

Leave a comment

]]><![CDATA[A Sneak Peek at My New Book]]>https://www.gospelcenteredmentoring.site/p/sneak-peek-at-my-new-bookhttps://www.gospelcenteredmentoring.site/p/sneak-peek-at-my-new-bookTue, 07 Apr 2026 15:02:54 GMTDear friends,

During a dry season of writing, I decided to read some of the old prayers and hymns of our faith ancestors (mostly Lutheran, but others as well). Nothing inspires good writing like reading good writing. At the same time, I had been diving back into Martin Luther’s Small Catechism while preparing a Bible introduction course for seekers and new Christians.

As I began pairing the old prayers and hymns with the catechism and Scripture, I had the idea to put together a month-long devotional book, built around all these treasures. “Reflecting on His Grace” is what came out of that musing.

I am in the process of preparing this new book for publication on Amazon in softcover, hardcover, and Kindle formats. So, I thought I would send you a preview. If you like it, I hope you will purchase the book and tell others about it.

Enjoy.

Find the first seven days of “Reflecting on His Grace” at the top of my Downloads page here.

Leave a comment

Share

Subscribe now

]]><![CDATA[Moving Forward]]>https://www.gospelcenteredmentoring.site/p/moving-forwardhttps://www.gospelcenteredmentoring.site/p/moving-forwardThu, 26 Feb 2026 16:02:19 GMTBecause the spring-like legs and powerful tail of kangaroos form a kind of tripod for balance and great forward motion, they cannot really move backwards. The males can shuffle or take small hops backwards when they are fighting, and Tree Kangaroos are able to move their legs independently, giving them a bit more mobility than their cousins. But overall, kangaroos are designed to move forward.

It seems God also designed people to move forward, not physically, of course, but emotionally and spiritually–from the past, through the present, and into the future. For example, many people long for the past, which may seem so much better than their present. However, in Ecclesiastes 7:10, Solomon writes, “Do not say, ‘Why were the old days better than these?’ For it is not wise to ask such questions.” The problem with the glorious past is that it no longer exists. Even if you return to a beloved location, either it has changed, you have changed, or both. Besides, as humans longing for a home we have not experienced yet, an eternal home, we tend to idealize the past, airbrushing out its darker parts for a heavenly vision of what we left behind. Other people are haunted by their past through guilt (what horrible things they did) or shame (what horrible people they are). They would much rather forget those times, places, or people. But the gravity drags them back in regularly and shapes their identity as a failure, damaged goods, or a hopeless cause.

To those who long for the past and those who feel shackled by it, God says:

Forget the former things;

do not dwell on the past.

See, I am doing a new thing!

Now it springs up; do you not perceive it?

I am making a way in the wilderness

and streams in the wasteland.

The wild animals honor me,

the jackals and the owls,

because I provide water in the wilderness

and streams in the wasteland,

to give drink to my people, my chosen,

the people I formed for myself

that they may proclaim my praise (Isaiah 43:18-21).

No matter what happened formerly, whether it was glorious or ghastly, God says to you today, “I am doing a new thing!” To those who thirst for a place or a purity they have lost, to those who wonder where God is present in the present, He proclaims, “I am making a way in the wilderness and streams in the wasteland … to give drink to my people …” To those who knew who they were before, but wonder today who they are and how they can face an uncertain future, God assures them that you are “… my people, my chosen, the people I formed for myself.” You are God’s beloved, baptized, and redeemed child today and forever.

So, do not dwell on the past. Rejoice in God’s former blessings and learn from your mistakes, but move forward like the kangaroo, that your life may proclaim the praise of Him who lovingly holds your past, present, and future in His mighty hands.

Leave a comment

Share

Subscribe now

]]><![CDATA[Bonus Episode 6: Apologetics and Acts 26 | Mike and Matt]]>https://www.gospelcenteredmentoring.site/p/bonus-episode-6-apologetics-and-actshttps://www.gospelcenteredmentoring.site/p/bonus-episode-6-apologetics-and-actsTue, 10 Feb 2026 15:02:16 GMTEpisode Summary:

In this final bonus episode of Jesus and Jet Lag, Matthew Doebler and Mike Hartman explore the theme of Apologetics through Paul’s defense before King Agrippa in Acts 26. While Paul is technically on trial, the hosts discuss how he flips the script—using the opportunity not just to defend himself (apologia), but to empathize with his audience and preach the Resurrection. From the “stone in the shoe” approach to the power of community “plausibility structures,” this episode covers how to remove barriers so that the gospel can be heard.

Key Topics Discussed:

  • Apologetics Defined: Understanding apologia as a “defense” using reason to attest to the truthfulness of the faith when problems or objections arise.

  • Paul’s “True and Reasonable” Faith: How Paul appeals to public, historical facts (”not done in a corner”) rather than private, secret revelations.

  • The Power of Testimony: Paul’s model for sharing faith: empathizing with the listener’s struggle (”I was just like you”) and pointing clearly to Jesus, rather than making oneself the hero.

  • Continuity of the Mission: How Paul’s speech links back to Isaiah 42 and Acts 1:8, showing that the church’s mission is the continuation of what Jesus began to do and teach.

  • Plausibility Structures: The role of the Christian community in surrounding non-Christians with Christians in loving community.

  • The “Stone in the Shoe”: Using apologetics not to “win” arguments, but to place a small pebble of truth in someone’s mind that bothers them enough to investigate further.

Resources & People Mentioned:

Common Terms and Links on Jesus and Jetlag

All commentary, statements, and discussion on this podcast reflect the knowledge, insight, and experience solely of the individuals presenting and featured on the podcast.

]]><![CDATA[Bonus Episode 5: Contextualization & Acts 17 | Mike and Matt]]>https://www.gospelcenteredmentoring.site/p/bonus-episode-5-contextualizationhttps://www.gospelcenteredmentoring.site/p/bonus-episode-5-contextualizationTue, 03 Feb 2026 15:03:10 GMTEpisode Summary:

In this bonus episode, Matthew Doebler and Mike Hartman follow Paul from the “culture clash” of Acts 15 to the nuance of contextualization in Acts 17. Arriving in Athens—a city “living on its past glories”—Paul finds himself alone and distressed by the idols surrounding him. The hosts break down Paul’s masterclass in cross-cultural communication at the Areopagus. They discuss how to move from being perceived as a “seed picker” (babbler) to a clear communicator of the gospel, using real-world examples from ministry in Mexico, Hong Kong, and the UK.

Key Topics Discussed:

  • Contextualization vs. Culture Clash: Moving from the negative friction of culture clash (Acts 15) to the positive, proactive work of ensuring your message is understood (Acts 17).

  • The “Seed Picker” (Babbler): The insult thrown at Paul by the philosophers—implying he was a scavenger of ideas without true understanding—and how modern missionaries often feel like imposters in new cultures.

  • Paul’s Distress (Paroxysm): How the sight of idols caused Paul a visceral, physical reaction, yet motivated him to engage rather than retreat.

  • The “Unknown God” Strategy: How Paul utilized a pagan altar to pivot to the true God, addressing the Athenians’ fear of missing a deity to cover their bases.

  • Audience Adaptation: Contrasting Paul’s “rural” sermon in Lystra (crops, rain, seasons) with his “urban” sermon in Athens (poets, philosophy, altars) without changing the core message.

  • The Stumbling Block: Why the Resurrection was particularly repugnant to the Greek worldview, leading to the abrupt end of the hearing.

Resources & People Mentioned:

  • Clinton Arnold: Commentator who explains the fear behind the “Unknown God” altar.

  • Martin Luther: Quote on the natural knowledge of God and the uncertainty of those outside the church.

  • Epicureans & Stoics: The two major philosophical schools Paul encountered in the marketplace.

Common Terms and Links on Jesus and Jetlag

All commentary, statements, and discussion on this podcast reflect the knowledge, insight, and experience solely of the individuals presenting and featured on the podcast.

]]><![CDATA[Bonus Episode 4: Culture Clash and Acts 15 | Mike and Matt]]>https://www.gospelcenteredmentoring.site/p/bonus-episode-4-culture-class-andhttps://www.gospelcenteredmentoring.site/p/bonus-episode-4-culture-class-andTue, 27 Jan 2026 15:01:19 GMTEpisode Summary:

In this bonus episode of Jesus and Jet Lag, Matthew Doebler and Mike Hartman tackle the theme of “Culture Clash” through the lens of Acts 15. They explore the pivotal Council of Jerusalem, where the early church faced a “sharp dispute” over circumcision and the inclusion of Gentiles. The hosts discuss how these ancient tensions mirror modern missionary challenges—from navigating direct vs. indirect communication styles to the unexpected surprises of cross-cultural worship (like pink communion wafers!).

Key Topics Discussed:

  • The “Stasis” of Acts 15: Understanding the “no little dissension” that threatened to divide the early church and why this chapter is the theological heart of the book of Acts.

  • The Yoke of the Law: Peter’s defense of grace and the realization that the Gentile believers should not be burdened by a yoke they cannot bear.

  • Luke’s Narrative Style: How Luke “walks quietly” through the text, offering a model of unassuming observation for cross-cultural workers.

  • Modern Culture Clashes: Real-life examples of friction in the mission field, including:

    • Worship Styles: How tradition often gets confused with biblical mandates (e.g., using specific hymnals vs. local expressions).

    • Communication: The frustration of “direct” Western communicators encountering “indirect” high-context cultures.

    • Organizational Structure: Navigating flat vs. hierarchical leadership structures in different cultures.

  • Conflict Resolution: A four-step model derived from Acts 15 for handling disagreement in the church: discernment of God’s activity, interpretation of Scripture, necessary debate, and church-wide consent.

Resources & People Mentioned:

Common Terms and Links on Jesus and Jetlag

All commentary, statements, and discussion on this podcast reflect the knowledge, insight, and experience solely of the individuals presenting and featured on the podcast.

]]><![CDATA[Bonus Episode 3: Church Planting & The Return to Antioch (Acts 14) | Mike and Matt]]>https://www.gospelcenteredmentoring.site/p/bonus-episode-3-church-planting-andhttps://www.gospelcenteredmentoring.site/p/bonus-episode-3-church-planting-andWed, 21 Jan 2026 15:02:47 GMTEpisode Summary:

In this third episode of the Jesus and Jet Lag bonus series, hosts Matthew Doebler and Mike Hartman conclude their look at Paul’s first missionary journey. Picking up in the second half of Acts 14 (verses 21-28), they discuss the “return trip” where Paul and Barnabas revisit the very cities where they faced persecution to strengthen the disciples. The conversation focuses on the essential components of a planted church, the reality of hardships in ministry, and the strategic importance of letting go and entrusting new believers to the Holy Spirit.

Key Topics & Takeaways:

  • The “Three Legs” of a Local Church: The hosts analyze Paul’s method to define what constitutes a “planted” church. It requires three components: Evangelism (outreach), Nurture (strengthening the disciples), and Leadership (appointing elders). If you only have one, you might have a program or a Bible study, but not a church 1111.

  • The Reality of Hardship: Paul’s warning that “we must go through many hardships to enter the kingdom of God” was backed by his own physical bruises from Lystra. The hosts discuss how church planting is a spiritual battle that inevitably involves hurts and wounds 2.

  • Strategic Regional Bases: How could Paul claim the work was “completed” after only a year or two? Matt explains the strategy of planting churches in key regional hubs (like Iconium or Corinth) to serve as bases from which the gospel could blanket the surrounding areas, rather than trying to reach every individual personally 3.

  • Committing Them to the Lord: A crucial step in mission work is the ability to “let go.” Paul didn’t stay to micromanage; he appointed local leaders and entrusted the church to the Lord, trusting that the Holy Spirit would continue the work 4444.

  • The Joy of Reporting Back: The episode concludes with Paul and Barnabas returning to Syrian Antioch to report “all that God had done.” The hosts highlight the importance of sharing mission stories to double the joy of the church and validate that it is God’s work, not ours 5.

Resources and People Mentioned:

Next Episode Teaser:

Join Matt and Mike for the next episode where they will dive into Acts 15 to discuss Culture Clash. They will look at the conflict that arose when Jewish and Gentile cultures collided in the early church and how the Jerusalem Council addressed it.

Common Terms and Links on Jesus and Jetlag

All commentary, statements, and discussion on this podcast reflect the knowledge, insight, and experience solely of the individuals presenting and featured on the podcast.

]]><![CDATA[Bonus Episode 2: Natural Knowledge of God & Mission in Lystra (Acts 14) | Mike and Matt]]>https://www.gospelcenteredmentoring.site/p/bonus-episode-2-natural-knowledgehttps://www.gospelcenteredmentoring.site/p/bonus-episode-2-natural-knowledgeWed, 14 Jan 2026 16:00:29 GMTEpisode Summary:

In this second episode of the Jesus and Jet Lag bonus series, hosts Matthew Doebler and Mike Hartman continue their journey through the mission themes of Acts. Focusing on Acts 14:8-20, they explore Paul and Barnabas’s dramatic encounter in Lystra. The conversation covers the “Natural Knowledge of God,” the cultural miscommunications that can happen in mission work, and the comfort that God “works through our mess” when we share the Gospel.

Key Topics & Takeaways:

  • Continuity of the Mission: The hosts highlight the striking parallels between Peter’s healing of the lame man in Acts 3 and Paul’s healing in Acts 14. This literary technique by Luke emphasizes that Paul is not a “rogue agent” but is continuing the same work of Christ.

  • Lystra Excavated: Mike shares insights from the recent archaeological excavations of Lystra, a diverse city of retired soldiers mixing Latin, Greek, and Lycaonian cultures.

  • The “Gods” Misunderstanding: Why did the crowd think Paul was Hermes and Barnabas was Zeus? Matt explains the local myth recorded by Ovid, where the gods destroyed the region for its lack of hospitality, leading the Lystrans to overcompensate to avoid the same fate.

  • Communication is Hard: The incident illustrates how easily the Gospel can be misunderstood across language and cultural barriers. However, it serves as a comforting reminder to missionaries that we don’t have to be perfect; God works even through our miscommunications.

  • Natural Knowledge of God: The hosts define this as what can be known about God through nature and conscience (his power, wisdom, and holiness). While it is a useful bridge for evangelism, it has limits. It cannot reveal God’s love or the specific message of Jesus’ resurrection.

Historical & Biblical Figures Mentioned:

  • Sir William Ramsay: The archaeologist who identified the site of Lystra and confirmed Luke’s historical accuracy.

  • Ovid: The Roman poet who recorded the local myth that influenced the crowd’s reaction to Paul and Barnabas.

  • Nick Bostrom: Philosopher discussed in relation to the modern “Simulation Theory,” which parallels the ancient natural knowledge of a higher power.

  • Martin Luther: Quoted from the Large Catechism regarding the limits of natural knowledge—knowing that God exists, but not knowing his attitude toward us.

Links

Common Terms and Links on Jesus and Jetlag

All commentary, statements, and discussion on this podcast reflect the knowledge, insight, and experience solely of the individuals presenting and featured on the podcast.

]]><![CDATA[Bonus Episode 1: Missio Dei & The Unfinished Story (Acts 1) | Mike and Matt]]>https://www.gospelcenteredmentoring.site/p/bonus-episode-1-missio-dei-and-thehttps://www.gospelcenteredmentoring.site/p/bonus-episode-1-missio-dei-and-theWed, 07 Jan 2026 16:01:32 GMTEpisode Summary:

Welcome to a special bonus series of Jesus and Jetlag! Hosts Matthew Doebler and Mike Hartman kick off a six-part deep dive into the mission themes found within the book of Acts2. In this first episode, Matt and Mike explore Acts Chapter 1, discussing the “Missio Dei” (the Mission of God), the seamless continuity between the Gospel of Luke and Acts, and what it means for the modern church to be living in “Acts Chapter 29”.

Key Topics & Takeaways:

  • The Sequel to Luke: Acts is viewed as “Volume Two” of a set, written to Theophilus. The hosts discuss the theory that Theophilus may have converted from a patron to a “brother” in the faith between the writing of the two books.

  • The Roadmap of Acts: Acts 1:8 serves as the outline for the entire book, moving from Jerusalem to Judea and Samaria, and finally to the ends of the earth.

  • Witness and Martyr: The root of the word “martyr” comes from the Greek. Being a witness is a promise from Jesus (”You will be my witnesses”), not just a command, though it often comes with hardship.

  • The Missio Dei: Defined as the “sending of God,” this concept traces how the Father sent the Son, the Son sent the Spirit, and the Trinity sends the church today.

  • Acts 29: While the book of Acts ends at chapter 28, the work of the church continues today as the “unfinished” next chapter of the story.

Historical Figures Mentioned:

  • Sir William Ramsey: A skeptic and archaeologist who set out to disprove Luke but concluded that Luke was a historian of the first rank.

  • St. Bartholomew: A striking example of the cost of witnessing; tradition holds he was skinned alive for his faith.

  • Augustine of Canterbury: Sent by Pope Gregory the Great to England at age 60, demonstrating that mission work involves both speaking the gospel and enduring hardship with quiet confidence.

Next Episode Teaser:

Join Matt and Mike for Bonus Episode 2, where they will cover Acts 14:8-20 and discuss the “natural knowledge of God” in a secular world.

Common Terms and Links on Jesus and Jetlag

All commentary, statements, and discussion on this podcast reflect the knowledge, insight, and experience solely of the individuals presenting and featured on the podcast.

]]><![CDATA[Episode 25: : The Four Gospels and Missions | Professor Stephen Geiger]]>https://www.gospelcenteredmentoring.site/p/episode-25-the-four-gospels-and-missionshttps://www.gospelcenteredmentoring.site/p/episode-25-the-four-gospels-and-missionsTue, 30 Dec 2025 16:00:51 GMTEpisode Show Notes

This week we are joined by Professor Stephen Geiger, who teaches New Testament and education at Wisconsin Lutheran Seminary in Mequon, Wisconsin. He also hosts a YouTube channel called His Word 360.

Professor Geiger shares how his ministry, whether in the seminary, his church, or his family, focuses on equipping people to use God's Word to fight their own spiritual battles.

The conversation delves into the genealogies of Jesus found in the Gospels of Matthew and Luke, highlighting how each was crafted by the Holy Spirit to connect with a specific audience. Matthew's genealogy traces Jesus's line back to Abraham for a Jewish audience, while Luke's traces it back to Adam for a Gentile audience. This serves as a powerful model for missionaries to apply the same gospel message in culturally sensitive ways, without compromising its truth.

The discussion also explores the concept of God's "long game" in salvation history. Professor Geiger uses the Abrahamic covenant as an example of God's 2,000-year plan, a period that culminated at Pentecost when the gospel began to be spread to the entire world. This perspective provides encouragement for missionaries who may not see immediate results, reminding them that their responsibility is the work, while the results belong to God.

Finally, the episode highlights the story of the demon-possessed man whom Jesus commanded to "go home to your family and tell them how much the Lord has done for you". This simple testimony serves as a model for all believers, proving that simplicity is not deficiency when sharing the Gospel.

Links Mentioned in the Episode:

Common Terms and Links on Jesus and Jetlag

All commentary, statements, and discussion on this podcast reflect the knowledge, insight, and experience solely of the individuals presenting and featured on the podcast.

]]><![CDATA[Episode 24: Law, Gospel, and the Heart of a Missionary | Bounkeo Lor]]>https://www.gospelcenteredmentoring.site/p/episode-24-law-gospel-and-the-hearthttps://www.gospelcenteredmentoring.site/p/episode-24-law-gospel-and-the-heartWed, 17 Dec 2025 18:00:59 GMTEpisode Show Notes

In this episode, we welcome missionary Bounkeo Lor, who serves as a missionary in the WELS and as the president of the Hmong Fellowship Church in Vietnam. A fourth-generation Christian leader, Boun shares his powerful story of how the distinction between Law and Gospel transformed his understanding of faith and led him to gospel ministry.

Boun explains that he initially resisted becoming a pastor because he saw how hard his father and grandfather worked, serving 24/7. He pursued a medical degree but was moved to ministry after hearing a message on Law and Gospel. Growing up in a somewhat legalistic Christian environment, he was taught that good works and strict adherence to rules were the path to heaven. When he realized that salvation is by grace alone through the blood of Christ, it changed his heart and mindset.

Boun explains that many in the Hmong community and other Asian cultures struggle with a similar legalistic mindset due to their cultural background, which emphasizes respect for elders and doing good to have a good afterlife. He stresses that while the first generation of believers may find it difficult to fully escape this cultural influence, training younger generations can help cultivate a purer faith rooted in the Gospel. He advises young missionaries to understand the culture and "put your feet into their shoes" to effectively lead them.

The conversation also explores Boun's leadership style, which is rooted in honesty and care. He builds trust by following through on his promises and by treating his fellow leaders like family, staying in the same hotels and eating the same food as them. A key part of his approach is the concept of "letting leaders sit inside your heart". This involves observing and understanding the struggles of fellow pastors—like their children being sick or not having enough food—and serving them so they feel encouraged and supported.

Common Terms and Links on Jesus and Jetlag

All commentary, statements, and discussion on this podcast reflect the knowledge, insight, and experience solely of the individuals presenting and featured on the podcast.

]]><![CDATA[Episode 23: Coworkers in Christ: A Conversation on Women, Ministry, and Leadership | Elise Gross]]>https://www.gospelcenteredmentoring.site/p/episode-23-coworkers-in-christ-ahttps://www.gospelcenteredmentoring.site/p/episode-23-coworkers-in-christ-aWed, 03 Dec 2025 18:00:47 GMTEpisode Summary

In this episode, Matthew Doebler and Mike Hartman speak with Elise Gross, a "Third Culture kid" from Antigua. Elise shares her personal story and spiritual journey, including her frustration with the perceived lack of active roles for women in ministry and her discovery of strong female figures in the Bible. The conversation explores how her background shaped her view of women in the church and her eventual calling to a ministry role that allows her to use her spiritual gifts in a way that honors God's truth.

Key Takeaways

  • Third Culture Kid: Elise discusses her experience growing up as a Third Culture Kid in Antigua and how it shaped her perspective on life and faith.

  • Women in Ministry: She shares her journey of grappling with the roles of women in the Bible and discovering figures like Lydia and the daughters of Philip.

  • Spiritual Gifts and Service: The conversation touches on the challenge of a spiritual gifts test that revealed her gifts of leadership and administration, and her struggle to find a place for them.

  • Academia Christo: Elise describes her work with Academia Christo and how it allows her to use her gifts effectively in a structured ministry environment.

  • Leadership vs. Headship: The episode concludes by distinguishing between the concepts of leadership and headship, emphasizing the importance of all believers being equipped for gospel proclamation while honoring God's design.

Links Mentioned

Common Terms and Links on Jesus and Jetlag

All commentary, statements, and discussion on this podcast reflect the knowledge, insight, and experience solely of the individuals presenting and featured on the podcast.

]]><![CDATA[Amygdala Hijack]]>https://www.gospelcenteredmentoring.site/p/amygdala-hijackhttps://www.gospelcenteredmentoring.site/p/amygdala-hijackTue, 25 Nov 2025 15:01:03 GMTGod designed our brains with amazing capabilities. One of which involves the amygdala. This almond sized structure found near the base of our brain helps us respond to life threatening situations. It activates a sudden flight or fight response that overrides time consuming thinking from the frontal cortex. Focus narrows as adrenaline and cortisol flood the system. We simply react to the situation. For example, you see a small child run out into a busy street. You jump to action by sprinting into the street to save the child. There is no time taken to think about the best strategy or route. You simply react.

When the Gift Backfires

But in our broken world, this gift can misfire. Things like stress, conflict, and overload can activate it unnecessarily. For example, after a long stressful day of ministry work you come home to a dirty house and children fighting. You are suddenly overcome by anger. Your vision begins to tunnel as you explode with shouting and angry words toward the people you love. Later, you feel awful for what you did. This can happen to the best of us. Thank God for his grace and forgiveness!

purple and pink plasma ball
Photo by Hal Gatewood on Unsplash

Why it Matters

Psychologist Daniel Goleman, in his 1995 book Emotional Intelligence: Why It Can Matter More Than IQ, coined the term “amygdala hijack.” He used this term to illustrate how strong emotional arousal can overwhelm the rational part of the brain. This emotional arousal leads to impulsive words and behavior. It often stems from from chronic stress, conflict, and overload. Before you know it, one can become stuck in a nasty loop:

Chronic stress leads to amygdala hijacking which leads to erratic behaviors which leads to damage of self and others which leads to more stress.

Ministry leaders are especially vulnerable to this loop as they pour themselves into others and over stretch their boundaries of time and ability. Amygdala hijack can set in elevating cortisol levels that may cause weight gain, high blood pressure, and trashed immune systems. Relationships are also damaged along the way. As a result, the joy of service begins to erode.

Breaking the Loop

By God’s grace, the loop can be broken. Everything begins with Him. Immersing ourselves in His Word calms anxious hearts and renews weary spirits. Forgiveness in Christ heals the guilt of past outbursts and restores peace. From that foundation, we can build habits that protect against chronic stress: creating healthy boundaries, resting well, cultivating supportive relationships, and even learning more about emotional intelligence. These steps, rooted in God’s promises, strengthen us for ministry and guard against being swept away by stress.

Call to Action

Here are three ways to curb amygdala hijack:

  1. Breathe - God gave our bodies the ability to regulate through some simple strategies. To slow down the amygdala hijacking process, stop and take in three strong breaths through your nose. At the top of your third breath pause and take in one more deep breath. Then slowly exhale through your nose. Do this 1-3 times to bring yourself back into focus and emotional control.

  2. Change Your Environment - Remove yourself from a stressful situation for a few minutes. Take a walk outside. Move to a different part of the building. Walk a hallway a few times. The combination of movement and environment change will help you calm down.

  3. Maintain Your Three Legged Stool - Healthy spiritual, emotional, and physical habits will build resilience. This resilience will help fend off amygdala hijacking. When we are unhealthy in our spiritual, emotional, and physical domains, we don’t handle stress very well and become more susceptible to amygdala hijacking.

    Leave a comment

    Share

    Subscribe now

]]><![CDATA[Episode 22: Called to Plant a Church Body, Not a Congregation | Mike and Matt]]>https://www.gospelcenteredmentoring.site/p/episode-22-called-to-plant-a-churchhttps://www.gospelcenteredmentoring.site/p/episode-22-called-to-plant-a-churchWed, 19 Nov 2025 16:02:11 GMTIn this episode of Jesus and Jetlag, hosts Mike Hartman and Matthew Doebler interview each other, diving into the ambitious yet humbling call to plant a church body rather than a single congregation. They share their experiences as missionaries in Australia and the UK, reflecting on how their calls encompass entire countries, similar to early missionaries called to whole continents like South America.

Key discussion points include:

  • Broadening the Scope of Ministry: Mike and Matt emphasize that their mission is to bring the Gospel to regions, not just individual communities. They discuss the challenges of reaching millions of people in places like Mexico City and China, highlighting the impossibility of one person doing it all.

  • The Importance of Multiplication (PARB): The conversation centers on building capacity for Gospel ministry expansion through multiplication. Matthew introduces the PARB framework:

    • P - Partners: Making witnesses and disciplers, not just converts and disciples.

    • A - Apprentices: Raising up new leaders through an apprenticeship model.

    • R - Repeats: Developing simple, repeatable methods for sharing the Gospel, citing Martin Luther's catechism as a historical example of this principle.

    • B - Broadens: Constantly thinking broader than immediate communities to reach more people through various means.

  • Balancing Depth and Breadth: Mike and Matt explore the tension between deep, thorough training and broad, rapid evangelism. They advocate for a balanced approach that ensures the Gospel message remains clear and unchanged over time while still reaching as many people as possible.

  • Leveraging Modern Communication: Mike shares how he uses platforms like YouTube and TikTok to connect with people and generate interest in the Bible in the UK, adapting communication methods to reach a wider audience. Matthew also discusses using English classes to connect with immigrant populations in Australia.

  • Encouragement for Missionaries: The episode concludes with powerful encouragements, reminding listeners that ministry will have struggles, it's God's church not ours, and it's okay to make mistakes and learn from them. They differentiate between "lead measures" (controllable actions) and "lag measures" (results that are God's work), advocating for missionaries to "work hard and rest well".

Listen in as Mike and Matt offer practical insights and theological reflections on the joys and challenges of global Gospel ministry.

Relevant Links:

Common Terms and Links on Jesus and Jetlag

All commentary, statements, and discussion on this podcast reflect the knowledge, insight, and experience solely of the individuals presenting and featured on the podcast.

]]><![CDATA[Episode 21: Fishers of Men Training Fishers of Men | Jon Bare]]>https://www.gospelcenteredmentoring.site/p/episode-21-fishers-of-men-traininghttps://www.gospelcenteredmentoring.site/p/episode-21-fishers-of-men-trainingWed, 05 Nov 2025 16:00:53 GMTWhat is the role of theological education on the mission field? Is there a tension between the "academic" work of a theological educator and the "practical" work of a missionary?

In this episode, we are joined by Jon Bare, president of Asia Lutheran Seminary, who shares his extensive experience in global theological education. Jon helps us see that the perceived tension between scholarship and missions is often a false dichotomy. He walks us through the history of theological training, from the relational, mentoring model we see in Scripture to the more structured, academic model common today.

Join us as we explore how to blend the best of both worlds. Learn how today's missionaries, as theological educators, can follow the example of Jesus—the ultimate theological educator—by focusing on a relational approach that equips national partners to not only know the Word, but to be shepherds and do the work of "fishers of men" in their own cultural contexts.

Key Takeaways from Our Conversation:

  • The goal of theological education is not just to impart knowledge, but to form the whole person—their character, their skills, and their heart for the mission. We can think of this as the "know, be, and do" of ministry preparation.

  • Throughout Scripture, from Moses and Joshua to Elijah and Elisha, and most importantly with Jesus and His disciples, theological training was fundamentally relational. This involved close mentorship, modeling, and walking together in ministry.

  • Jesus turned the educational model of His day on its head. Instead of disciples choosing their teacher, He chose them, calling them into a deep, personal relationship with the goal of making them "fishers of men."

  • The term "seminary" originates from the Latin word for "seedbed" (seminarium). It was conceived as a place to perpetually grow and provide trained pastors for the church's local needs.

  • A missionary's role as an educator is not to simply "copy and paste" their own training. It involves listening, learning from the local culture, and working together with national partners to apply the unchanging truths of Scripture in their own context.

  • To keep theological education focused on the mission, it must remain deeply connected to the life of the church. Training should happen within the context of the church's mission, not separate from it, with students serving and applying their learning from the very beginning.

  • To the new missionary preparing to train workers: Be a pastor to your students. Your primary role is to shepherd the people God has placed under your care, preparing them to be shepherds in their own contexts.

Materials Referenced:

Common Terms and Links on Jesus and Jetlag

All commentary, statements, and discussion on this podcast reflect the knowledge, insight, and experience solely of the individuals presenting and featured on the podcast.

]]><![CDATA[The Rest of The Interview about More than Meh]]>https://www.gospelcenteredmentoring.site/p/the-rest-of-the-interview-about-morehttps://www.gospelcenteredmentoring.site/p/the-rest-of-the-interview-about-moreSat, 25 Oct 2025 09:05:12 GMTHere is the second half of my interview about Luke 9:51-62 and my new book More than Meh. Thank you to Mark Kjenstad at St. Andrew Lutheran Church in Middleton, WI, for interviewing me, editing the episode, and publishing it.

You can listen to PART TWO here at the Impact Podcast.

If. you haven’t listened to part one yet, it is available here at the Impact Podcast.

You can purchase More than Meh on Amazon.

New Impact

Subscribe now

Share

Leave a comment

]]><![CDATA[Episode 20: Koinonia and the Art of Hospitality | Guy Marquardt and Matt Behmer]]>https://www.gospelcenteredmentoring.site/p/episode-20-koinonia-and-the-art-ofhttps://www.gospelcenteredmentoring.site/p/episode-20-koinonia-and-the-art-ofWed, 22 Oct 2025 16:02:17 GMTIn this episode of Jesus and Jetlag, Mike and Matt host a fascinating four-continent conversation with Matt Behmer and Guy Marquardt about the profound meaning of fellowship (Koinonia) and the practicalities of hospitality in international mission work. They delve into how cultural differences impact ministry, the challenges of fostering mutual relationships in global partnerships, and the powerful role of digital communication in maintaining connections.

In This Episode:

  • Defining Parakaletic Koinonia: Guy Marquardt explains his dissertation concept of "parakaletic koinonia," emphasizing the Holy Spirit's active role in gathering believers for mutual transformation through shared Gospel. He highlights the importance of balancing doctrinal truth with relational love in Christian fellowship.

  • Cultural Nuances of Hospitality: Matt Behmer shares insights on how hospitality differs across cultures, drawing from his experiences in Latin America compared to Asia, and offers advice on approaching new cultural contexts with humility. Guy adds a personal anecdote about "reverse culture shock" related to social cues in Brazil versus the U.S..

  • Building Mutual Partnerships: The discussion explores the challenges of unequal partnerships in missions and the importance of fostering truly mutual relationships where everyone stands "at the feet of Jesus" as co-workers. Matt Behmer describes how the Academia Cristo ministry exemplifies people from diverse backgrounds working together, offering a "glimpse of heaven".

  • Maintaining Connection Despite Distance: The guests discuss how missionaries can sustain meaningful koinonia and partnerships when physical presence isn't possible. Matt Behmer highlights the use of digital hospitality and the deepened trust built through occasional in-person visits. Guy Marquardt draws parallels to the Apostle Paul's use of letters to maintain connections and encouragement despite being physically separated.

  • Overcoming Obstacles to Hospitality: Matt Behmer addresses modern cultural barriers to hospitality, noting its historical significance in the church and its potential as a counter-cultural force for evangelism.

  • Genuine vs. Counterfeit Hospitality: The conversation emphasizes the importance of genuine hospitality, motivated by God's own hospitality to us, rather than a "bait and switch" strategy for evangelism. They stress that hospitality should be a way of life, sustained at a healthy pace.

  • Prioritizing Fellowship with God: The episode concludes by highlighting that a strong relationship with Christ, who is the ultimate host, empowers believers to extend genuine hospitality and fosters deeper relationships with others.

Materials Referenced

Common Terms and Links on Jesus and Jetlag

All commentary, statements, and discussion on this podcast reflect the knowledge, insight, and experience solely of the individuals presenting and featured on the podcast.

]]><![CDATA[What Chinese Christians Teach Me about the Kingdom]]>https://www.gospelcenteredmentoring.site/p/what-chinese-christians-teach-mehttps://www.gospelcenteredmentoring.site/p/what-chinese-christians-teach-meTue, 21 Oct 2025 16:01:27 GMTThere are many things I love about my Chinese brothers and sisters in Christ. One of them is how they speak the word “brothers.” In standard Chinese usage, the word for brother is “xiongdi” (pronounced kind of like “sheeyong-dee”). It’s actually two words mashed together, the word “xiong” for “older brother” and “di” for “younger brother.”* As one might expect in a traditional culture, the word for “older brother” comes first, followed by “younger brother.” Those who are older are honored.

One day in Chinese class several years ago, as I was struggling to form a sentence and saying something about brothers, the teacher stopped me. She said, “You’ve turned it around. It’s ‘xiongdi’ not ‘dixiong.’” And I realized that I had learned the word “dixiong” from my Christian brothers and sisters. When speaking to and talking about each other in the church, Chinese Christians call the men “dixiong,” putting the younger brother before the older one. As far as I know, this is not done anywhere else in Chinese society.

I have to think that the early Chinese Christians chose to speak this way as a reflection of the upside-down nature of Christ’s kingdom: The first shall be last, the exalted shall be humbled, the older will serve the younger. It reminds me of Jesus’ words to his disciples the night before he died:

You call me ‘Teacher’ and ‘Lord,’ and rightly so, for that is what I am. Now that I, your Lord and Teacher, have washed your feet, you also should wash one another’s feet. I have set you an example that you should do as I have done for you. Very truly I tell you, no servant is greater than his master, nor is a messenger greater than the one who sent him. Now that you know these things, you will be blessed if you do them (John 13:13–17).

The greatest among them became the least. The King was mocked, beaten, punished, and executed so his weak and squabbling subjects could be kings, so they could know eternal peace, joy, and purpose. The obedient older brother sacrificed himself for the wayward younger brothers (see Luke 15:11-32). Upside-down.

And to honor that gracious older brother and remind themselves of their humble callings, our Chinese siblings put “di” before “xiong.”

Questions for Reflection

  1. In your context, how do Christians express respect and love for each other in the way they speak? How can this kind of honor-talk be increased?

  2. Share one or two other examples from the Bible where the upside-down nature of Christ’s Kingdom is evident.

  3. What is one thing you could do this week to thank or encourage a fellow Christian who humbly serves others?

* The interrelation of siblings, cousins, grandparents, aunts, uncles, etc. in Chinese culture is quite complex. There are different names for everyone in your family, depending on their age and relationship by marriage.

Leave a comment

Share

Subscribe now

]]><![CDATA[Updated!!! Listen to the Intro of my book "More than Meh"]]>https://www.gospelcenteredmentoring.site/p/listen-to-the-intro-of-my-book-morehttps://www.gospelcenteredmentoring.site/p/listen-to-the-intro-of-my-book-moreSat, 18 Oct 2025 14:01:37 GMTHey everyone, the audio version of my introduction for More than Meh cut off early. I have re-uploaded the full intro here.

As I record and edit the audio for my upcoming release of More than Meh on Audible, I thought I would share the introduction.

Purchase More than Meh here on Amazon.

Find out more about my books on matthewdoebler.us.

Subscribe now

Share

Leave a comment

]]>