Steven Maldoff of BIMI International talks about being a missionary in countries where Christianity is the super-minority.

Build Something Media Podcast

https://www.bimi.org/content/abMaldoff.php
In this enlightening episode of the Build Something Media podcast, hosts Chris Moreland and Justin Bethune sit down with their neighbor, Steven Maldoff, who shares his transformative journey from aspiring archaeologist and astronaut to a leading figure in missionary work across Southeast Asia and the South Pacific. The conversation begins with Steven’s personal introduction, highlighting his unexpected path to becoming a mentor and supervisor for missionaries in some of the most culturally diverse and politically complex regions of the world.

Steven recounts the pivotal moment during a mission trip to Mexico that opened his eyes to the vastness of the world beyond his hometown of Cleveland, Ohio, sparking a lifelong passion for aiding communities through faith-based initiatives. He details the evolution of his career, from founding a church in the Australian Outback to his current role as a director overseeing missionary efforts in 35 countries, emphasizing the importance of adapting to local cultures and respecting legal boundaries while spreading the Christian faith.

The discussion delves into the unique challenges of missionary work, including navigating geopolitical tensions, understanding and respecting diverse religious landscapes, and the practical aspects of establishing and supporting mission efforts abroad. Stephen offers insights into the innovative strategies used to engage with local communities, from providing education and medical care to simply being a present and supportive figure in people's lives.

Listeners are given a behind-the-scenes look at the complexities of planning and executing missionary work, including the financial, logistical, and emotional considerations that go into moving families to foreign countries and starting new ministries. The conversation also touches on the risks and rewards of such endeavors, with Stephen sharing personal experiences of navigating danger and witnessing the transformative power of faith in action.

The episode also explores broader themes of faith, cultural identity, and the search for truth in an increasingly digital and skeptical world. Stephen and the hosts discuss the impact of technology on faith communities, the importance of having deep, evidence-based convictions, and the role of individual believers in representing their faith amidst diverse viewpoints.
In a particularly thought-provoking segment of the episode, the conversation takes an unexpected turn towards the topic of religious freedom and diversity, specifically addressing the emergence of after-school satanic clubs as a counterpoint to Christian clubs in schools. This discussion opens up broader questions about the nature of faith, the boundaries of religious expression in public spaces, and the responsibilities of parents in guiding their children's spiritual education. Steven, Chris, and Justin navigate this sensitive topic with care, emphasizing the importance of open dialogue, respect for individual choice, and the foundational values of love and understanding that underpin their faith. This segment challenges listeners to consider the complexities of living in a pluralistic society where differing beliefs coexist and the role of personal conviction in navigating these differences.

Concluding with a lighter touch, the hosts engage Steven in a discussion about his predictions for the Stanley Cup finals, showcasing the multifaceted nature of their guest's interests and experiences. This episode of the Build Something Media podcast offers a compelling narrative of faith, resilience, and the universal pursuit of building a better world through understanding, compassion, and dedicated action.

Capitole

1. Introduction (00:00:29)

2. Christianity is less than 2% of the population. (00:03:54)

3. How to set up a church abroad. (00:09:00)

4. The dangers of being a Christian missionary. (00:14:20)

5. Ministering from a place of love. (00:18:16)

6. Actions speak louder than words. Showing faith instead of preaching about it. (00:19:13)

7. The difficulty of being a Christian in majority Muslim, Hindu, and Buddhist countries. (00:23:34)

8. Satanic club in Memphis school. (00:27:17)