The Future of Mission Must Be Collaborative

The Future of Mission Must Be Collaborative

What if the future of global mission isn’t about going solo, but about radical collaboration? In this special episode of The Missional Leader, Rob unpacks the powerful story and personal conviction centered on “collaborative missiology” – a movement transforming how the Church approaches God’s mission in the 21st century. Drawing from his experience growing up on the mission field and decades of leadership at OneHope, Rob traces the dramatic journey of missions: from the passionate Moravians and the resistance-defying William Carey to the profound turning points at Edinburgh 1910 and today’s explosive growth of the Church in the Global South. Discover how historic models, once shaped by Western influence, are giving way to global, indigenous leadership and “from everywhere to everywhere” mission. You’ll hear unforgettable moments, including the convicting words of Samuel Azaria at Edinburgh that still echo today, and Rob’s own watershed realization that the Great Commission is simply too big for any one organization to carry alone. Learn why the Church’s greatest impact comes from cultivating networks of trust, generosity, and shared vision – and how innovations like the Bible App for Kids, massive Bible translation collaborations, and “plural-verse” missiology are reshaping the landscape. Whether you’re a leader, a pastor, or passionate about cross-cultural mission, this episode will challenge and invite you: Will you pursue God’s mission independently, or choose to step boldly into true partnership with God’s people around the world? CHAPTERS: 00:38 The real barrier to the Great Commission 02:03 Why unity is a kingdom core value 02:38 The Moravians and the spark of modern missions 03:26 William Carey: "Sit down, young man" 04:07 The Great Century of Missions and its complexities 05:14 Every model is a method for the moment 05:38 Edinburgh 1910 and Azariah's challenge 07:00 OneHope's shift from doing to catalyzing 07:52 The center of gravity has moved to the Majority World 08:43 From three-self to self-theologizing 09:23 Bosch and the "pluriverse" of missiology 10:04 Why the pioneering spirit isn't enough anymore 10:59 Collaborative missiology as the 21st century framework 11:55 What collaboration has already made possible Show Note Links:  * Episode Guide [https://robhoskins.onehope.net/the-future-of-mission-must-be-collaborative/]— Access a resource designed to help you reflect and learn from this episode conversation!  * Miscio [https://www.miscio.io/]: Global Christian learning organization referenced as a case study example of collaborative missiology in action; Access full video story. [https://youtu.be/FGnwaJARZO0?si=JgJ6zlRaJCVYMXFN]  * David Bosch, Transforming Mission [https://www.amazon.com/Transforming-Mission-Paradigm-Theology-Missiology/dp/1570759480]: Referenced for his framework of mission entering a new era with many voices and expressions * Bible App for Kids with YouVersion [https://www.youversion.com/bible-app-for-kids]:Referenced as a collaborative program reaching children globally * Close the Bible Gap [https://closethebiblegap.com/]:Referenced as a collaborative Bible access initiative serving frontline missionaries and church planters

Adventure, Accountability, and Kingdom Governance with Mart Green

What separates leaders who endure from those who burn out? Often, it’s not vision - it’s governance.  In this episode of The Missional Leader, Rob sits down with Mart Green - a respected business leader, philanthropist, and architect behind some of today’s most influential faith-driven ventures - to explore why lasting impact is built through accountability, trusted partnerships, and courageous leadership. Mart serves as Ministry Investment Officer for Hobby Lobby, Founder of Mardel, and now champions global Gospel initiatives through his leadership with Come and See and Come Near.  Drawing from decades of experience leading at the highest levels of business and ministry, Mart shares practical insights on the critical balance between leadership and governance. From helping guide Oral Roberts University through crisis to collaborating on Christian media initiatives, he unpacks why organizations often fail not because of weak leadership, but because of weak structures of accountability. In this conversation, you’ll discover: * Why governance is essential for both personal and professional leadership * How to build “adventure partnerships” rooted in trust and honest accountability * The difference between bold vision and sustainable leadership * Practical wisdom for building relationships and structures that stand the test of time Whether you’re leading a team, serving on a board, or growing in your own leadership journey, this episode offers timeless insight for leading with purpose, resilience, and integrity. * Episode Guide [https://robhoskins.onehope.net/adventure-accountability-and-kingdom-governance-with-mart-green/]: Access a resource designed to help you reflect and learn from this episode conversation!  * Hobby Lobby [https://www.hobbylobby.com/]— Referenced as the business founded by Mart Green's family * The Chosen [https://watch.thechosen.tv/?utm_source=google&utm_medium=ad&utm_campaign=infinitemedia&utm_content=nil_nil_nil_nil&utm_term=support%20the%20chosen%20tv%20series&utm_campaign=.MW_GRANT_CAS_search+%7C+Evergreen+%7C+Engagement&utm_source=adwords&utm_medium=ppc&hsa_acc=2474105060&hsa_cam=23300218479&hsa_grp=185047008610&hsa_ad=787405568872&hsa_src=g&hsa_tgt=kwd-2452839482606&hsa_kw=support%20the%20chosen%20tv%20series&hsa_mt=b&hsa_net=adwords&hsa_ver=3&gad_source=1&gad_campaignid=23300218479&gbraid=0AAAAApnmFmiX_FHnJhWoyb1a8qy1yqtiw&gclid=CjwKCAjwn4vQBhBsEiwAq3hhNyIAcOk-mtNylbmCZ4W7mEgTEjLeoDOZPpRI0GAqjWFKy68s0xzx2hoC51QQAvD_BwE]— TV series mentioned as a current adventure/project * Oral Roberts University (ORU) [https://www.oru.edu/]— Referenced throughout the discussion on governance and leadership * Through Gates of Splendor by Elisabeth Elliot [https://www.amazon.com/Through-Gates-Splendor-Elisabeth-Elliot/dp/0842371516]— Book referenced in connection to the missionary story and film * End of the Spear (film) [https://www.imdb.com/title/tt0399862/]— Movie produced as a result of an early adventure CHAPTERS: 00:05 The True Meaning of “Adventure Partners” 01:14 Building Trust: The Nature of Real Relationships 03:04 Stepping Into the Unknown: Inviting Yourself In 04:15 Choosing Accountability: Seven Adventure Partners 05:18 The Two Wings: Leadership and Governance 06:35 Inspiration from “Through Gates of Splendor” 09:08 Extreme Generosity: 39% of My Year for ORU 11:03 The Power of Mentorship: Meeting Bob Cooley 12:13 Wisdom Is the Body of the Plane 14:00 Saying Yes When You Want a No 15:00 Every Mess Traced Back to Governance 17:17 Practical Steps for Young Leaders: Personal Accountability 18:31 Stages of Governance: From Founder to Generative 20:10 The Value of Young Voices on Boards 22:03 Building Generational Strategy Groups 22:35 Friendship, Adventure, and the Joy of Not Going Alone

Leading Young: Authentic Ministry, Capacity, and Calling with Charlie Hughes

What does it take to lead a nextgen movement - before your 30th birthday? In this episode of The Missional Leader, Rob Hoskins sits down with Charlie Hughes, a dynamic young preacher making waves in South Florida as the leader of Rally, a thriving young adult ministry based at First Baptist Fort Lauderdale and Church by the Glades. Church by the Glades is a thriving megachurch reaching more than 9,000 each week, while First Baptist carries historic legacy right in the heart of downtown Fort Lauderdale.  Together, Rob and Charlie unpack the surprising soil that’s cultivating the next generation of church leaders. Charlie shares candidly about growing up as a pastor's kid, what it was like preaching his very first sermon at age 16 (and why it was both his worst and most formative), and the balancing act of authenticity and stewardship when stepping into significant responsibility at a young age. Key moments you won’t want to miss: * The real reason Charlie wasn’t nervous preaching as a teen—and how that resulted in a crash course on preparation, humility, and growth. * The behind-the-scenes “soil” of his upbringing: how consistent, authentic faith in his family shaped his love for Jesus, love for people, and approach to ministry. * The secrets to building leadership capacity as the crowds grew, and why discipline, initiative, and the courage to be entrusted with more are essential for young leaders. This episode is an inspiring, practical look at how authenticity, entrustment, and sacrificial discipline are forming a new generation of missional leaders - plus, encouragement for both young leaders stepping up and those looking to empower the next generation. * Episode Guide [https://robhoskins.onehope.net/leading-young-authentic-ministry-capacity-and-calling-with-charlie-hughes/]: Access a resource designed to help you reflect and learn from this episode conversation!  * Church by the Glades [https://www.cbglades.com/]— Mentioned as one of the churches where Charlie Hughes serves; described as a thriving megachurch in South Florida. * First Baptist Fort Lauderdale [https://www.firstbaptistftl.com/]— Mentioned as another church where Charlie Hughes serves; located in downtown Fort Lauderdale. * Theology of the City [https://robhoskins.onehope.net/theology-of-the-city/] by Rob Hoskins — Book mentioned as authored by Rob Hoskins, on urban missiology. * OneHope Research [https://onehope.net/global-outreach/research/]: Gen Z & Gen Alpha  CHAPTERS: 00:04 Worst Sermon Ever: Lessons from Failure 01:07 Launching Rally: Leading a Young Adult Movement 05:43 Authentic Faith at Home vs. Church 08:41 Balancing Coolness and Faith as a PK 10:00 Loving Jesus vs. Loving Ministry 13:31 No Dramatic Call: A Lingering Ministry Desire 15:17 Culture of Entrustment: Youth Leading Youth 19:10 Overconfidence Bombs: Preaching Debacle at Sixteen 23:09 “Make Every Rep Count”: Growth After Failure 26:13 Deep Initiative: Bringing Your Best to God’s Work 32:09 Growing Capacity: Leadership Challenges at 26 35:33 Advice for Young Leaders in Limiting Environments 40:01 Radical Purity & Stewardship as a Young Leader

Solving the World’s Greatest Problems: Faith Driven Entrepreneurship with Justin Forman

What if the key to solving the world’s greatest problems isn’t just bold ideas, but radical, faith-fueled collaboration? In this episode of The Missional Leader, Rob dives deep with Justin Forman, an entrepreneurial visionary, president of Faith Driven Entrepreneur, and a lead architect behind influential platforms like RightNow Media. Justin shares his captivating journey from an “eager beaver” mission trip pioneer to catalyzing a global movement of Kingdom-minded entrepreneurs. Together, Rob and Justin unpack why today’s emerging generation is uniquely wired for entrepreneurship, creation, and collaborative impact - and how the Church must grow a richer theology of vocation, innovation, and generosity to meet this moment. You’ll discover: * Why naming the “villain” is crucial for transforming good intentions into real-world action - and how bland, “Hallmark” storytelling holds Christian leaders back * How collaborative generosity, not just individual effort, is unlocking breakthroughs in Bible translation, higher education for the world’s poorest, and more * The seismic cultural shift: Why trust in small businesses dwarfs faith in government and even the Church, and what that means for mission-minded leaders From the explosion of Faith Driven Entrepreneur - connecting millions of leaders worldwide - to the fresh initiative of “Solving the World’s Great Problems,” this conversation is both practical and inspiring. If you’re a builder, creative, or faith-driven innovator longing to see your calling meet the world’s deepest needs, this episode will challenge and equip you. Are you ready to stop looking away from the world’s villains and step into a new era of collaborative Kingdom impact? Show Note Links:  * Episode Guide [https://robhoskins.onehope.net/solving-the-worlds-greatest-problems-faith-driven-entrepreneurship-with-justin-forman/]: Access a resource designed to help you reflect and learn from this episode conversation!  * Faith Driven Entrepreneur: https://www.faithdrivenentrepreneur.org [https://www.faithdrivenentrepreneur.org] * Right Now Media: https://www.rightnowmedia.org/ [https://www.rightnowmedia.org/] * OneHope Research: Gen Alpha https://onehope.net/global-outreach/research/ [https://onehope.net/global-outreach/research/] * Miscio: https://www.missio.eduhttps://www.miscio.io/ [https://www.miscio.io/] * Solving the World’s Greatest Problems: https://solving.org/ [https://solving.org/] * Collaborative Missiology: More resources will be coming soon! To stay up to date on resources related to this topic, sign up here. [https://robhoskins.onehope.net/podcast/]   CHAPTERS: 00:01 What Revival Looks Like When It’s Out of Control 01:08 Gen Z: Anxious, Secular—or Spiritually Curious? 05:13 Bold Faith: Gen Z’s Unexpected Evangelistic Courage 07:05 Post-Christian or Pre-Christian? New Openness in Europe 08:18 Students Leading Alpha in Public Schools 10:34 Youth Alpha Reimagined: Collaborative, Global Approach 13:58 Gen Z’s Search for the Lasting and Solid 14:57 Presence Over Programs: Gen Z’s Spiritual Priorities 16:46 Hard Questions, Thick Theology: The Shift in Discipling 19:11 Grace and Truth: Equipping Volunteer Leaders for Gen Z 22:02 Bible Sales Up, Spiritual Hunger Rising 24:13 Church Must Reform to See Awakening Become Revival 28:01 Guide Beside, Not Sage on the Stage 29:46 Real Relationships: Parents as Most Trusted Voices 32:08 Jesus Is Lord Generation: All-In Faith Stories 34:50 An Age of Collaborative Missiology 35:25 Closing Encouragement & Leadership Vulnerability

Gen Z, Authentic Faith, and the Future of Youth Ministry with Dan Blythe

Is revival quietly taking root among Gen Z, defying everything the headlines have told us? In this episode of The Missional Leader, Rob sits down with Dan Blythe, Global Youth Director at Alpha, to uncover the spiritual hunger emerging across the UK, Europe, and beyond. Drawing from two decades of hands-on youth ministry and a global leadership perspective, Dan brings unique insight into what some have called a “quiet revival”—where young people are flooding churches, asking hard questions, and picking up Bibles in record numbers. Together, Rob and Dan explore the paradoxes of a generation that’s both radically open to faith and fiercely independent, eager for authenticity over performance, and demanding truth without easy answers. Hear how Alpha’s latest youth series is empowering teenagers themselves to lead spiritual conversations, fostering a movement where revival isn’t about hype, but about God moving outside our control. Key moments include: * An inspiring story of one student who invited 100 friends to Alpha - and saw dozens encounter Jesus in a single week. * Why authenticity and vulnerability from older leaders matter more to Gen Z than perfection or performance. * How churches of all denominations are being challenged to reform and collaborate, creating space for the Holy Spirit to awaken a new generation. If you want practical encouragement, cultural insight, and a vision for how all generations can join in God’s global movement, this episode is for you. Episode Guide [https://robhoskins.onehope.net/is-gen-z-leading-a-spiritual-comeback-insights-from-alphas-dan-blythe/]: Access a resource designed to help you reflect and learn from this episode conversation!  Quiet Revival One Year On: What’s the Story? [https://bible-society.directus.app/assets/4e08929c-6148-49f6-9269-757f6ba3d87d]* *Note: This episode was recorded prior to an update shared by the UK Bible Society rescinding the original Quiet Revival study due to soundness of research methodology. Since this announcement, the UK Bible Study has published a follow up report confirming the core themes from the original study are aligned with other major research studies. The updated report is shared here.  Alpha Youth Series  [https://alphausa.org/youth-ministry/youth-ministry-curriculum/] The Anxious Generation: How the Rewiring of Childhood is Causing an Epidemic of Mental Illness [https://www.amazon.com/Anxious-Generation-Rewiring-Childhood-Epidemic/dp/0593655036], by Jonathan Haidt  OneHope Research [https://onehope.net/global-outreach/research/]: Gen Z & Gen Alpha  Collaborative Missiology: More resources will be coming soon! To stay up to date on resources related to this topic, sign up here. [https://robhoskins.onehope.net/podcast/]   CHAPTERS: 00:01 What Revival Looks Like When It’s Out of Control 01:08 Gen Z: Anxious, Secular—or Spiritually Curious? 05:13 Bold Faith: Gen Z’s Unexpected Evangelistic Courage 07:05 Post-Christian or Pre-Christian? New Openness in Europe 08:18 Students Leading Alpha in Public Schools 10:34 Youth Alpha Reimagined: Collaborative, Global Approach 13:58 Gen Z’s Search for the Lasting and Solid 14:57 Presence Over Programs: Gen Z’s Spiritual Priorities 16:46 Hard Questions, Thick Theology: The Shift in Discipling 19:11 Grace and Truth: Equipping Volunteer Leaders for Gen Z 22:02 Bible Sales Up, Spiritual Hunger Rising 24:13 Church Must Reform to See Awakening Become Revival 28:01 Guide Beside, Not Sage on the Stage 29:46 Real Relationships: Parents as Most Trusted Voices 32:08 Jesus Is Lord Generation: All-In Faith Stories 34:50 An Age of Collaborative Missiology 35:25 Closing Encouragement & Leadership Vulnerability