Visionlife365

Welcome to the podcast "Glimmers of Grace: Living Our Faith in a Darkening World!" brought to you by Gary and Jason! In this episode, we discuss one of the most critical aspects of our Christian lives: living out our faith in Christ. We know standing firm against the darkness encroaching on our world can be challenging. But as Christians, we must remember that there is no greater power than Jesus; He has overcome all things, even death itself. By putting our trust in Him and keeping His commandments, we can have hope for a better tomorrow. When faced with temptation or societal pressure, we must step back and remember who God is and what He stands for. We should never compromise our beliefs to fit in with the world, but instead, we should be living examples of God's love and grace. We must trust that He will give us the strength to remain faithful, no matter what happens. Even when everything is crumbling around us, we can always have hope because Jesus has already won the ultimate victory over sin and death. So when faced with hardship or doubt, remember that faith in Christ will never fail. As you continue your journey through life, let your faith be a guiding light for others. Thank you so much for joining us today! We hope this podcast was an encouragement to you and that it reminded you of how important it is to live out our faith in Christ each and every day!

Welcome to the latest episode from Gary and Jason, "The Mark of a Disciple: Identifying Common Characteristics Among New Believers," where they discuss the journey of new believers in the discipleship process. In this episode, they explore the common traits that all new believers share and how identifying them can help missionaries and disciple-makers lead others in their journey to spiritual maturity. As missionaries and disciple-makers, Gary and Jason understand the importance of knowing what to expect when working with new believers. Knowing what to expect can help make the discipleship process much easier and more effective. Our goal with this episode is to encourage and equip those actively making disciples. We believe that by identifying these common traits and knowing how to deal with them when they occur, we can help new believers grow in their faith and become strong disciples of Christ. Join Gary and Jason as they explore this topic and share their insights and experiences. We hope this episode will be a source of encouragement and inspiration to all involved in making disciples.

Welcome to this latest episode, "A Legacy of Leadership: Ensuring Your Ministry's Continued Success," with your hosts Gary and Jason. In this episode, Gary shares his insights on his mission organization's recent transition in installing new leadership. Gary begins by highlighting the spiritual maturity of the current leader, who has been actively searching for and preparing the new leader. He explains that this transition comes from a tremendous heart of humility and spiritual maturity. The current leader has seen how God has used him for a season but has also recognized that someone else can and will handle this next season much better. This realization demonstrates self-awareness and a willingness to put the organization's mission ahead of personal desires or ambitions. Gary explains that there are important lessons to be learned from this transition. Just because leaders change roles doesn't mean they are no longer valuable to the organization. They can often flourish in a supportive role and reinforce the leadership of the new leader. As the organization transitions, Gary encourages listeners to note how the current leader handles the change. He emphasizes the importance of learning from this example and applying it to other areas of leadership in their own lives and organizations. Throughout the podcast, Gary and Jason engage in a lively discussion about the qualities of effective leadership and the importance of humility and self-awareness. They explore how leaders can best serve their organizations, both in times of transition and in day-to-day operations. Listeners will leave this episode challenged to see the importance of humility in leadership and building God's Kingdom!

Welcome to this podcast episode "Beyond Conversion: The Journey to Spiritual Maturity", a podcast hosted by Gary and Jason, two missionaries dedicated to leading new believers from the newness of faith to the depths of spiritual maturity. This episode explores the critical importance of a well-defined discipleship pathway. This essential roadmap shapes the journey of faith from its earliest stages to the pinnacle of spiritual growth. Balancing the scales between academia and applicability, Gary and Jason delve into the complexities of faith formation, stressing the delicate equilibrium between theological study and a new believer's organic, personal queries. Our spiritual journey isn't purely academic, nor should it be lost in a maze of questions; it's a harmonious blend of the two, and that’s exactly what this podcast explores. We recognize that the questions a new believer asks are not distractions but signposts of their current stage of spiritual growth. We address these questions head-on without letting them become sidetracked from the discipleship process completely. While these questions are crucial, keeping our eyes focused on the broader pathway to maturity is equally essential. "Beyond Conversion: The Journey to Spiritual Maturity" combines the experience with the freshness of new perspectives, keeping the listener engaged and grounded in spiritual growth. With a heart for guiding new believers and a commitment to maintaining the focus on the holistic discipleship journey, Gary and Jason offer this podcast episode that's not just about learning but about growing, questioning, and, most importantly, maturing in faith. Tune in, and let's take the journey together. Your pathway to spiritual maturity starts here.

Welcome to a thought-provoking podcast episode hosted by Gary and Jason. Today, we journey into the heart of our communities, seen through the lens of international eyes. As we explore this theme, we delve into the profound significance of cultivating relational bridges and fostering a sense of unity, particularly for the sake of the Gospel. Our hosts, Gary and Jason, guide us through a fascinating discussion about the rich diversity that makes up our neighborhoods. The world is now literally at our doorstep. Gary and Jason highlight the vast array of cultures and traditions we encounter daily, making us realize that we live amidst an international community. This episode emphasizes the role each of us plays in building bridges of understanding and connection, helping the Gospel's reach expand beyond conventional boundaries. Gary and Jason passionately advocate for adopting the stance of intentional learners when interacting with our international neighbors. They argue that we must step out of our comfort zones and immerse ourselves in diverse cultures. Learning about foreign cultures is about acknowledging differences and celebrating commonalities, including our shared human need for grace and salvation. The hosts remind us that cultural learning is a delicate process. It's easy to make judgments based on our interpretations, which our biases or misconceptions can often skew. To build solid and meaningful relationships, they urge listeners to approach different cultures with an open mind, humility, and respect, to understand and appreciate them truly. Join Gary and Jason in this enlightening conversation as they reveal the essence of the Gospel's international outreach. They highlight the importance of embracing diversity, building relational bridges, and fostering a deep, meaningful understanding of the global community outside our front door.

Welcome to this podcast episode, "Divine Dispatches: Extraordinary Missionary Experiences." Gary and Jason share their personal experiences with the supernatural in this podcast. Despite not being superstitious or having Pentecostal leanings, Gary and Jason have experienced some incredible encounters on the field. They will share some of their most memorable experiences, from gringos in the back of Sarah Sykes' car to witnessing inexplicable protection. These experiences can only be explained as divine intervention. Gary and Jason will discuss some of their experiences where they have seen God's protection over them. They will share how their faith has been a constant source of strength and protection on their journey. One interesting point that Gary and Jason discuss is the prevalence of dark and occult activity outside of the United States. They explain that in some cultures, there is open worship of darkness and occult practices that can lead to increased supernatural activity. Jason shares his experiences living in Venezuela, where there was very open satanic worship, and how this affected the spiritual climate of the country. They also discuss the strong voodoo influence in the Dominican Republic, stemming from neighboring Haiti. If you're interested in the intersection of faith and the supernatural, this podcast episode is for you. Listen to this episode, "Divine Dispatches: Extraordinary Missionary Experiences," to hear some incredible stories about divine protection and encounters with the supernatural world.

Gary and Jason are taking on a topic that is sometimes seen as a foreign concept in the church: the role of elders. In this podcast, they explore the importance of this leadership position and why it is often misunderstood. Many people believe that deacons should do the job of the elder, but Gary and Jason explain that deacons serve the pastor and the congregation. In contrast, elders provide spiritual accountability and protection for the pastor and the congregation. They delve into the biblical basis for this role and how elders can help strengthen and guide the church. Gary and Jason also share their personal experiences and opinions and discuss the importance of incorporating this leadership position in the church. Although their church, IBEM, has not yet voted on whether or not to have elders, Gary and Jason are both very much in favor of incorporating elders into their leadership structure if the Lord leads the congregation in this direction. Join Gary and Jason as they engage in this critical and thought-provoking discussion about the role of elders in the church.

Gary and Jason are tackling one of the most significant theological debates in the Christian faith: are salvation and discipleship one and the same or two separate entities? In this thought-provoking podcast, they explore the nuances of this complex topic and provide their unique perspectives. Neither Gary nor Jason wants to answer with a definite yes or no, but instead, they focus on the importance of tangible growth in the believer's life. They discuss the relationship between salvation and discipleship and repentance's role in both. Using biblical references and real-life examples, Gary and Jason delve into the gospel's transformative power and how it leads to a changed life. They also explore the importance of following Jesus, not just believing in Him, and how this is reflected in how we live our lives. Join Gary and Jason in this timely and relevant discussion, challenging listeners to think deeply about the nature of salvation and discipleship. Don't miss out on this important and thought-provoking podcast, where they explore whether salvation and discipleship are the same or two separate entities. Tune in now!

Gary and Jason are taking you on a journey to explore the potential dangers of seeing foreign cultures only through American eyes. This podcast delves into how our perceptions can shape our understanding of other cultures and how wrong perceptions can lead to wrong conclusions. Gary and Jason share their experiences of traveling and engaging with different cultures, highlighting the importance of being culturally aware and sensitive. They discuss how misunderstanding a culture can have serious consequences, including financial consequences. For example, providing financial aid to people in need may seem like a good thing. Still, if it is not done culturally appropriately, it can harm them in the long run by making them financially dependent. Join Gary and Jason as they explore the importance of cultural humility and the steps we can take to challenge our own biases and gain a deeper understanding of the cultures we encounter. They also share practical tips and insights on engaging with different cultures respectfully and beneficially with both parties. Don't miss out on this thought-provoking and engaging podcast, where Gary and Jason challenge the dangers of seeing foreign cultures only through American eyes. Tune in now!

Within the realm of theology, there are varying positions on faith preceding regeneration or regeneration preceding faith. The position of our ministry is that faith precedes regeneration. Listen as Gary and Jason share why they believe a person must surrender to God's authority in repentance before being saved. Regardless of which side of the aisle you fall on, this theological discussion will challenge you and make you think!

The gospel is God's most important message entrusted to the believer as stewardship. Unfortunately, many Christians are not confident to share their faith and often seek out their pastor to "witness" to someone because they don't have the confidence to do it themselves. In February 2023 our seminary will be launching a class about understanding the gospel. Listen as Gary and Jason discuss what are the important aspects of a clear gospel message. This will encourage you in your faith and give you tools to help you share your faith!

San Pedro de Macoris is a unique city. Due to the influence of baseball, we are often blessed to have both Spanish-speaking and English-speaking visitors. This presents a unique opportunity for ministry. Listen as Gary and Jason talk through our ministry philosophy and how we operate our bilingual ministry.

Ministry presents you with some interesting choices at times. Christmas 2022 was one of those interesting times. Christmas fell on a Sunday. Praise the Lord that we had an excellent turnout for services, but what do you do when people don't attend a service that falls on a holiday? Often times it is easy to be very judgmental and jump to conclusions. Listen as Gary and Jason talk through this delicate subject and how they wade through the waters of discipling new believers towards faithfulness.

Gary and Jason try to challenge themselves continually and expand through reading. This podcast is about their recommended reads. There are some great books that will help you in your personal and ministry growth. Listen in for some great suggestions for your personal reading!

2022 was a great year. Stepping out of COVID gave opportunities for ministry growth again. There is excitement in the air at our church. Listen in as Gary and Jason share the incredible things God has done as they close out 2022 and look toward 2023!

Being a missionary is fantastic and rewarding! When the holidays come sometimes there is a bit of homesickness. Listen as Gary and Jason discuss how to keep the holidays exciting and refreshing even when overseas.

Mantaining a testimony that is above reproach is essential for a healthy home, church, and ministry. It is wise to maintain strong accountability in every aspect of life because sometimes an unsubstantiated accusation alone can cause irreversible damage. Unfortunately in ministry not every situation is so perfectly black and white. Culture can also add some curve balls that are not so common in the United States. Listen as Gary and Jason talk about importance of maintaining a solid testimony and what they do when they are presented with difficult situations. This discussion is so important for pastors and missionaries because we must be careful to never give even the appearance of evil.

Sometimes in ministry, there are times that you feel uncomfortable about something, but you can't seem to put your finger on it. Someone gives you a bad vibe, or you may feel unsettled. Listen as Gary recounts a situation at IBEM (Iglesia Bautista Evangelica de Marcoris) that unsettled Gary. Thanks to having a proper protocol in place and being sensitive to the Holy Spirit, IBEM was protected from a potentially harmful individual. Listen in on the conversation as Gary and Jason talk about the importance of having proper policies, procedures, and protocols in place to protect the body of Christ. They also talk about the importance of being attentive to the Holy Spirit when He moves in our hearts regarding these situations. This podcast will help you think through your policies and procedures to be sure you are protected from potential harm.

So much to unpack in this episode. As a team, DR Vision builds organic relationships within our community centered around the gospel. Franciso is a fantastic example of the cohesive work of a mission team to see someone come to Christ and then be discipled! Listen as Gary and Jason talk about Francisco, an older gentleman God convicted through the Holy Spirit. Thanks to multiple people investing in Francisco, he decided to give his life to Jesus Christ and then follow in baptism. Francisco is now growing in grace! Some plant, some water, but God gives the increase! You are sure to be encouraged by this podcast!

Driving is one of the most challenging parts of living in the Dominican Republic! Every day is a new adventure! Listen in as Gary and Jason share some of their driving experiences. Jason was in two car accidents in the same week! Thankfully no damage to the car or anyone involved. Get the inside scoop when you listen to this podcast!