In 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
“Hospitality for Church Planting in Latin America: Mission, Leadership, and Development in the Context of Global Christianity” by Matt Behmer
Paper by Dr. Guy Marquardt
Thesis? by Dr. Guy Marquardt
Common Terms and Links on Jesus and Jetlag
WELS = Wisconsin Evangelical Lutheran Synod (wels.net)
WLS = Wisconsin Lutheran Seminary in Mequon Wisconsin (wisluthsem.org)
BWM = WELS Board for World Missions
CICR = Commission on Inter-Church Relations of the Wisconsin Evangelical Lutheran Synod
Vicar = a pastoral intern in the Wisconsin Evangelical Lutheran system
Wisconsin Lutheran Quarterly (WLQ) - A theological journal, published by Wisconsin Lutheran Seminary, that aims to serve pastors and theologians with scholarly articles, book reviews, and reflections on contemporary theological and pastoral concerns.
Pastoral Studies Institute of Wisconsin Lutheran Seminary
All commentary, statements, and discussion on this podcast reflect the knowledge, insight, and experience solely of the individuals presenting and featured on the podcast.
