Bonus: “What’s a Missionary” with Dean Kershner

Aug 1, 2023

What do you think of when you hear the word “missionary”? Do you need to go to a foreign country? Do you need to have formal training? Or do you need to learn a foreign language? Unfortunately, we tend to stereotype missionaries leading us to define mission work unbiblically. In this episode, you won’t want to miss what Dean Kershner has to share as he biblically defines mission work, shares precious stories and gives practical insight on learning to be a missionary as God defines it!

It is a blessing to have Dean Kershner as a guest on the podcast. While you may know Dean for his gifted ability to dramatize heroes of faith, such as Vanya or Hudson Taylor, he has also had the opportunity to invest in God’s Kingdom all around the world. Dean’s international work began in Moscow, Russia in 1992 where he served for five years. Dean and his wife currently work with Gospelink, a ministry that supports indigenous preachers financially, educationally, and practically. He has a contagious passion for the gospel and incredible stories from his experiences!

  • Nate Paine, Host

    Nate Paine loves pointing people to God’s Word. He gave his life to the Lord at age 11, while on his family’s farm in Northeast Indiana. As a teenager and through his 20’s, he poured himself into serving God—from completing his bachelor’s degree in Biblical Ministries, to working in prison ministry discipling inmates, and mentoring young men through the Journey to the Heart program. Through the years, he has carried his life verse of Isaiah 61:1-3 with him, following God’s call to “preach good tidings unto the meek,” “bind up the brokenhearted,” “proclaim liberty to the captives,” and to offer beauty for ashes—through the Person and work of Christ.  Today, he lives with his wife and five children in East Texas where Nate serves on staff with IBLP and the Home Discipleship Network. In his spare time, you may find him adventuring with his children (preferably with fishing poles in hand), perfecting his pour over coffee brewing, or reading one of his favorite authors—Andrew Murray or A.W. Tozer.

  • Dean Kershner, Guest