Shows
Witness & Persecution with Nik and Ruth RipkenREWIND: Redefining Christmas - Part 2This is a REWIND episode of Witness & Persecution from a past episode titled "Redefining Christmas". This is part two of two! If you haven't listened to the first part, we highly recommend listening to that first. You can find that on podcast platforms and our website!
We know we've been a bit MIA but for good reason! There's a lot of amazing, game changing things coming out from NRM and we can't wait to share. Follow us on socials to stay tuned!
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As Nik continues this series on rediscovering the...
2024-12-2151 minWitness & Persecution with Nik and Ruth RipkenREWIND: Redefining ChristmasThis is a REWIND episode of Witness & Persecution of past episode titled "Redefining Christmas". In light of the Christmas season, we thought this episode would be a good reminder for some and challenge for others on their perspective of Christmas. This is part one of two!
We know we've been MIA the last couple months, but it's not without reason! There's a lot of new and exciting things coming up for Nik Ripken that we're excited to share. Stay tuned!
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Did you know that the wise men of the...
2024-12-1800 min
Witness & Persecution with Nik and Ruth RipkenMember Care in Hard PlacesOne of the most critical aspects of cross-cultural work is how to practically care for those we send. In this episode, Nik takes a deep dive into the most important elements that individuals and churches need to consider to most adequately take care of our "sent ones".
đź”— Visit NikRipken.com to learn more about their mission and how you can get involved.
🎧 Listen to more episodes of Witness and Persecution with Nik & Ruth Ripken for real stories of faith and resilience from the frontlines of Christian missions.
➡️Learn more about Nik Ripken ministries at NikRipken...
2024-10-151h 04
Witness & Persecution with Nik and Ruth RipkenBritish Half-PennyEverything that God has ever done, He is still doing. Listen as Nik recounts a story out of Apartheid that demonstrates what it truly means to "give all" for Jesus and how the Biblical narrative continues to come alive all over the world.
đź”— Visit NikRipken.com to learn more about their mission and how you can get involved.
🎧 Listen to more episodes of Witness and Persecution with Nik & Ruth Ripken for real stories of faith and resilience from the frontlines of Christian missions.
➡️Learn more about Nik Ripken ministries at NikRipken.com
Follow us on our soc...
2024-10-0840 min
Witness & Persecution with Nik and Ruth RipkenSTOP Playing it Safe and Start Living Radically for Jesus from "The Even You Podcast"Last week, East-West's The Even You Podcast came out with an episode featuring Nik Ripken. Join hosts, Mariah and Scott, as they interview Nik on what bold faith and radical obedience looks like.
đź”— Visit NikRipken.com to learn more about their mission and how you can get involved.
🎧 Listen to more episodes of Witness and Persecution with Nik & Ruth Ripken for real stories of faith and resilience from the frontlines of Christian missions.
➡️Learn more about Nik Ripken ministries at NikRipken.com
Follow us on our socials @nikripken on Facebook, Instagram, and Twitter
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2024-10-0134 min
Witness & Persecution with Nik and Ruth RipkenTeaching Your Kids on the Mission FieldHow do you teach your children while serving on the mission field? For many families considering missions, this is one of the most significant concerns. In this episode, Ruth Ripken shares their family's 36-year journey across various mission fields, offering invaluable insights into how they navigated the challenges of educating their children overseas. From homeschooling to relying on God's provision, Ruth discusses how their kids not only survived but thrived, thanks to God's guidance in every season.
Join us as we explore how God equips parents on the mission field, the unique challenges of raising children abroad, and practical...
2024-09-1729 min
Witness & Persecution with Nik and Ruth RipkenRipken Reports: Christian NationalismNik Ripken tackles one of the most pressing issues facing the modern church: Christian nationalism. Join Nik as he explores what it means to faithfully follow Jesus in a world where politics has been weaponized to divide, define, and instigate hatred. As Christians, we're confronted by a society that challenges our political views side-by-side with our faith. We’re left asking, “How should Christians think about Christian nationalism?”
With thoughtful biblical reflection and stories from his global experience, Nik offers wisdom about how Christians can navigate the tension between national identity and spiritual allegiance to the Almighty God. W...
2024-08-2930 min
Witness & Persecution with Nik and Ruth RipkenRipken Reports: Unexpected SacrificeIn this episode, Nik Ripken tackles one of the most pressing questions many Christians have: "How should I think about Muslims?" 🌍 With more and more news media pushing out different narratives, especially about the Middle East and Islam - how are we called to view Muslims? With years of experience living and working among Muslim communities, Nik offers insightful, compassionate, and Christ-centered guidance for understanding and engaging with Muslims in our increasingly connected world.
Learn more about Nik Ripken ministries at NikRipken.com
Follow us on our socials @nikripken on Facebook, Instagram, and Twitter!
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2024-08-2210 min
Witness & Persecution with Nik and Ruth RipkenRipken Reports: BumAlmost 2 million people from over 40,000 churches embark on short-term international mission trips each year, driven by a desire to serve, make a difference, and spread hope. But how many of these trips actually leave a lasting impact? In this episode, join Nik and Anthony as they dig deep into the complexities of short-term missions and what it really takes to be a helpful volunteer abroad and answer the question "How do you know if a volunteer will be helpful overseas?". Nik shares a candid, eye-opening story about a volunteer he encountered that goes by the name, "Bum", and reflects...
2024-08-1515 min
Witness & Persecution with Nik and Ruth RipkenGrief, Hope, & Redemption: A conversation with Tim & Aileen ChalliesNik and Ruth Ripken welcome Tim and Aileen Challies in this moving episode, where they share their journey through the grief of losing a child and how they’ve found hope and redemption through their faith in Christ. Through raw and honest conversation, they discuss the challenges of navigating such deep sorrow and how their faith has sustained them through the darkest moments.
Join us as we dive deep into topics that resonate with the heart of ministry—grief, hope, redemption—and discover how these themes are lived out on the mission field and within the church. This episode serves...
2024-08-131h 03
Witness & Persecution with Nik and Ruth RipkenHiding Out In The OpenJoin us for a powerful episode of Ripken Reports where Nik Ripken tackles the question: "How does knowing the context of the Bible help us in missions?" In this candid and insightful session, Nik shares his deep understanding and firsthand experiences from the mission field, explaining why understanding the Bible's context is crucial for effective mission work.
Learn more about Nik Ripken ministries at NikRipken.com
Follow us on our socials @nikripken on Facebook, Instagram, and Twitter!
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2024-08-0815 minWitness & Persecution with Nik and Ruth RipkenNames Lifted UpHave you ever thought how powerful it is when you as a believer have the ability to lift up prayer requests directly to God? Nik discusses both the power and practice of prayer as it relates to the first step of evangelism.
Learn more about Nik Ripken ministries at NikRipken.com
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2024-08-0640 min
Witness & Persecution with Nik and Ruth RipkenRipken Reports: Repercussions of a Cold Coca-ColaJoin us in this episode of Ripken Reports, for an insightful chat with Nik Ripken as he shares a fascinating story about the pitfalls of cultural misunderstandings on the mission field - all starting with a cold Coca-Cola. Ever wondered why getting culture right is so crucial? Join Nik and Anthony in an episode full of wisdom, humor, and great stories. Perfect for anyone curious about missions and cross-cultural experiences!
Learn more about Nik Ripken ministries at NikRipken.com
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2024-08-0116 min
Witness & Persecution with Nik and Ruth RipkenHe's Articulate for a Painter!Nik reminds us that obeying the Great Commission is not brain surgery - all of us are equipped and capable of sharing Jesus and gathering people in our homes, neighborhoods, and places of work. Listen in as Nik unpacks the simple, everyday obedience that changes the world.
Learn more about Nik Ripken ministries at NikRipken.com
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2024-07-3052 min
Witness & Persecution with Nik and Ruth RipkenRipken Reports: Risk & Right ReasonsWhen is the right time to take significant risks for Jesus?
On May 2024, it was announced that a missionary couple in Haiti, Natalie and Davy Lloyd, were murdered by a local gang. Their remains were sent home to Natalie's parents in Missouri. This news shocked the world and brought in a lot of questions when it came to the topic of missions and risks.
Join us on this latest episode of Ripken Reports as Nik answers the question that this terrible event has brought back to the surface - "When is the right time to take significant risks for...
2024-07-2619 min
Witness & Persecution with Nik and Ruth RipkenWhere There Is No TempleTithing is a common practice in the West to which we rarely give much thought. But what do you do when you are on the edge of lostness with no storehouse in which to give your tithes? Nik sits down to address this issue, and how it relates to our obedience to the "more important matters of the law".
Learn more about Nik Ripken ministries at NikRipken.com
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2024-07-2350 min
Witness & Persecution with Nik and Ruth RipkenRipken Reports: Should I Go To Seminary?Welcome to our very FIRST Ripken Report. These shorter episodes are where Nik gives raw and honest answers to all of YOUR questions. This episode's question is "Should I go to seminary or should I get a job in the marketplace?". Tune in and hear what wisdom Nik has to share!
Learn more about Nik Ripken Ministries at NikRipken.com
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2024-07-1821 min
Witness & Persecution with Nik and Ruth RipkenComing SoonAfter 7 years, our video-based, game-changing missions resource for the global Body of Christ is finally ready to be unveiled this Fall! Nik and Anthony sit down for a surprise conversation sharing the story of how this resource came to be, and what Nik and Ruth hope to see happen through learning from Believers in Persecution in this material.
Learn more about Nik Ripken ministries at NikRipken.com
Follow us on our socials @nikripken on Facebook, Instagram, and Twitter!
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2024-07-1122 minWitness & Persecution with Nik and Ruth RipkenHow Do You Know?The essence of salvation and baptism are often controversial. When so many cultures view truth and relationships so differently, how do we know what comprises an authentic profession of faith in Jesus?
We also have a ton of new and game-changing updates coming to Nik Ripken Ministries, such as new resources, a new website, and new products. To stay up to date, follow us on our socials or check out our website - all listed below!
Learn more about Nik Ripken Ministries at NikRipken.com
Follow us on social media at:
Facebook - NikRipken
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2024-06-1146 minWitness & Persecution with Nik and Ruth RipkenSheep Among Wolves | Nik Ripken's Speech at Liberty University's ConvocationThis is a previously recorded speech from Liberty University's Convocation Ceremony titled, "Sheep Among Wolves". We thought it was a powerful message for anyone graduating, entering a new season of life, or needing some encouragement as we continue to walk this life as Jesus' followers, carrying the Good News across the streets and across the oceans. Listen in as Nik challenges students on what it truly means to share the Gospel in the hardest places on the planet.
If you'd like to learn more about our ministry, you can learn more at www.NikRipken.com
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On September 15, 2014, at Convocation...
2024-06-0432 minWitness & Persecution with Nik and Ruth RipkenJesus+In our world of unlimited streaming options and instant gratification, it's easy to want "add-ons" to following Jesus. Join Nik as he discusses how we are tempted, whether in our own culture or on the mission field, to present the Gospel as "Jesus+" - trying to get material benefits from becoming a Christian beyond just getting Jesus Himself.
Learn more about the ministry at NikRipken.com
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2024-05-211h 01Witness & Persecution with Nik and Ruth Ripken"Tell No One"In this episode of Witness & Persecution with Nik and Ruth Ripken, Nik confronts one of the more confusing statements of Jesus regarding His identity and sharing the Good News: How do you know Jesus? And what is the most important thing about Jesus that you know?
Learn more about our ministry at NikRipken.com.
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2024-05-1445 minWitness & Persecution with Nik and Ruth RipkenThe Lamb of GodIn this episode of Witness & Persecution with Nik and Ruth Ripken, Nik shares the story of getting to interview Samuel Lamb, one of the most spiritually impactful men of God in the Chinese Church. Nik recounts lessons learned from Samuel Lamb about faithfulness in the midst of severe and heartbreaking persecution.
Learn more about the ministry at NikRipken.com
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2024-05-1032 minWitness & Persecution with Nik and Ruth RipkenYou Don't Have to Come BackChristian culture has bought into this lie: “If you love and serve Jesus, you are entitled to a long life, free from serious injury or illness. And you’ll never have problems within your family." Join Nik as he dives into what it truly means to be "crucified with Christ."
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2024-04-3036 minWitness & Persecution with Nik and Ruth RipkenFinding Paul & EstherIn western Christianity, we often fail to choose leaders in a biblical way. Persecuted believers also raise up and train leaders. Nik walks through the spiritual, biological, and cultural profiles of pastors, teachers, evangelists, and church planters in parts of the world defined by persecution.
Learn more about our ministry at NikRipken.com
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2024-04-0958 minWitness & Persecution with Nik and Ruth RipkenFaith & DenialEvery persecuted believer gets knocked down at some point. Many of them, through Spirit-empowered victorious faith, get back up and stay in God's story. The unfortunate reality, though, is that some deny their faith or—worse—fill the role of Judas as betrayer. Nik shares several stories about the experiences of individuals enduring persecution.
* For the safety of those mentioned in this episode, their names have either been changed or edited out.
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2024-04-0250 minWitness & Persecution with Nik and Ruth RipkenFour Ways Christian Women Can Overcome Fear and Befriend Muslim WomenIn light of Ramadan, we thought we'd share this episode from Our Urban Voices that Ruth Ripken was a part of. Here she shares insights from over 35 years in missions, 4 ways for Christians to overcome fear, why Christian women must be the ones to reach out to Muslim women with hospitality and what it means to love our neighbor well.
Learn more about our ministry at NikRipken.com
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2024-03-2639 minWitness & Persecution with Nik and Ruth RipkenDisciples Don't Choose YouWhat is discipleship? Are you practicing it biblically? In this episode, Nik explores the true nature of biblical discipleship. Jesus modeled for us how to choose disciples, live in community, and raise up the next generation of leaders and workers.
Learn more about our ministry at NikRipken.com
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2024-03-191h 08Witness & Persecution with Nik and Ruth RipkenMeet, Greet, and EatAs Ramadan approaches, Nik takes to dive into the practical elements of meeting and engaging your Muslim friends and neighbors. Nik shares special insight from 3 decades on the mission field and gives practical tools that every believer you can use to overcome fear of Islam and engaging Muslims.
Learn more about the ministry at NikRipken.com
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2024-03-1243 minWitness & Persecution with Nik and Ruth RipkenForsaken: Matthew 27:45-46We're taking a short break from recording new podcast episodes, so we thought we'd share this nugget of blessing with you all.
Nik Ripken gave a talk at Southeastern Baptist Theological Seminary recently! Join Nik and the SEBTS community as he preaches from Matthew 27 on the hardships faced internationally by unbelievers and how it is our mission to go and tell them about our King, Jesus Christ.
Thank you for Southeastern Baptist Theological Seminary for the opportunity and video!Learn more about the ministry at NikRipken.com
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2024-02-2735 minWitness & Persecution with Nik and Ruth RipkenTalking Someone Out of Becoming a ChristianNik and Ruth love college students! Not only have they been the recipient of years of encouragement and love at the hands of college and university students, but they have been able to pour back into them in recent years. In this epsiode, Nik shares a story of interacting with a Muslim-background college student, and the difficult truth that we can sometimes trade the truth of the real Gospel for an artifically flavored cultural Christianity.
Learn more about Nik Ripken's Ministries at NikRipken.com
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2024-02-2039 minWitness & Persecution with Nik and Ruth RipkenSpiritual DĂ©jĂ vuNik shares a story from believers in persecution that he has never told before. In this narrative, we see how persecution often repeats itself and is in present active tense. Nik challenges listeners to not view perseuction in present active tense, but the Bible in past tense.
Check out more at NikRipken.com
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2024-02-061h 08Witness & Persecution with Nik and Ruth Ripken5 Guys In The DesertDiving deeper into the larger story of his time in the Ogaden region of the Ethiopian desert, Nik shares one of the most miraculous encounters he's ever experienced. "Are you the one? Have you come?" Nik asks this question of listeners who might need spiritual motivation to be the one who offers hope and truth in the darkest times of peoples lives.
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2024-01-301h 09Witness & Persecution with Nik and Ruth RipkenWhere Are They Now?Nik recounts his time coming face to face with the terrorist group al-ittihad in his Somali years. Encountering starving children on the brink of death, Nik confronts his own lack of faith and how he has personally seen that God works in present-active tense today.
Listen to more Witness & Persecution at nikripken.com
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2024-01-2352 minWitness & Persecution with Nik and Ruth RipkenREWIND: Somebody's ComingWe're taking a quick break from recording new episodes for Witness and Persecution, but didn't want to leave you hanging! We thought we'd reintroduce you to our MOST LISTENED to episode of ALL TIME - "Somebody's Coming".
Nik Ripken talks about what he wished he knew during his first year in Malawi and what God has taught him since.
Check out more episodes and learn more about Nik Ripken Ministries at nikripken.com
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2024-01-1651 minWitness & Persecution with Nik and Ruth RipkenREWIND: Lies, Lies, and More LiesWe're taking a quick break from recording new episodes for Witness and Persecution, but didn't want to leave you hanging! We thought we'd reintroduce you to our MOST LISTENED to episode of 2023 - "Lies, Lies, and More Lies".
We know that Satan is a liar. But how many of his lies do we actually believe, whether we realize it or not? In this epsiode, Nik begins a journey of discovering the Top 10 lies that Satan has told the Church, and many in the Church that have believed them.
Check out more episodes and learn more...
2024-01-0958 minWitness & Persecution with Nik and Ruth Ripken"I Beg of You Christmas"As Christmas and New Year's approaches, Nik shares a Christmas cultural faux pas from their days in Malawi. Nik uses this illustration to dive into the materialism that infects much of the Western world's view of Christmas, and how Scripture challenges us to see the birth of Jesus from a totally different perspective.
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2024-01-0242 minWitness & Persecution with Nik and Ruth RipkenHis Grace Is SufficientRuth sits down for a raw, honest, heart-felt discussion on the personal journey of pain and suffering that she and Nik have been walking over the last few years. Ruth details God's redemption through suffering, and provides hope and encouragement for those who are experiencing medical trauma, depression, anxiety, and the struggle of ministering to those inthe midst of suffering.
Read more at NikRipken.com/blog
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2023-12-1932 minWitness & Persecution with Nik and Ruth RipkenDo I Fight Back?Nik takes listeners to the bush of Sudan as he explores the timeless words of Jesus - "a new commandment I give you - love your enemies, and pray for those who persecute you". Nik takes an in-depth dive into the Biblical practices of believers in perescution from a Muslim background as they navigate following Jesus when their persecutors are at their breakfast table.
Read more at NikRipken.com/blog
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2023-12-121h 03Witness & Persecution with Nik and Ruth RipkenIs He Worth It?Inspired by the movie "The Insanity of God", Nik and Anthony sit down with Erskin to get the behind-the-scense story of Erskin and Nik's powerful new song, "Is He Worth It".
Read more on the blog at www.NikRipken.com/blog
Watch the music video for "Is He Worth It?" by Erskin at https://www.youtube.com/watch?si=Lw1FxlfW0yJCy_xA&v=PBllAXKx6m8&feature=youtu.be
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2023-12-0458 minWitness & Persecution with Nik and Ruth RipkenTotally Rethinking MissionsIn this epsiode, Nik looks back at 37 years of overseas work and wonders - "did we go about it the wrong way?" Listen in as he shares that if he were to start over, why he would start with the "HOW" of missions before the "WHERE".
Read more on the blog at www.NikRipken.com/blog
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2023-11-1946 minWitness & Persecution with Nik and Ruth RipkenRedefining Christmas (Part 2)As Nik Ripken continues this series on rediscovering the Biblical account of the Christmas narrative, he challenges listeners to ask "Imagine you were a parent, or Jesus, in this story". Understanding the context of Christmas allows us to discover how we apply the birth of Jesus to our lives and theology.
Learn more about Nik Ripken Ministries at:
https://www.nikripken.com/
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2023-10-3151 minWitness & Persecution with Nik and Ruth RipkenThe Israeli / Palestinian ConflictWhile the Israeli / Palestinian conflict rages, Nik records a special episode to address what this conflict is, and what it is not. Nik pushes listeners to maintain, and express, a Christian worldview that forces us to read the Bible, seek God's face, and step out in faith to fulfill the Great Commission in the hard places.
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2023-10-2449 minWitness & Persecution with Nik and Ruth RipkenRedefining ChristmasDid you know that the wise men of the Bible were ultimately unwise men? Their story isn’t a children’s story set in an elaborate Christmas pageant. It’s a story of persecution when Jesus was just a toddler. It’s a story filled with drama and the genocidal slaughter of children. Christians living in the west are stuck with a faith narrative in our heads that is dominated by the culture in which we live. Nik begins a multi-part series to learn how believers in persecution get the Christmas story right.
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2023-10-1759 minWitness & Persecution with Nik and Ruth RipkenTrauma and Soul Care (part 1)After Nik and Ruth had spent significant time in Somalia - witnessing horrific tragedies like war, abuse, and starvation - they learned and developed "best practices" for how to provide counseling and soul care to workers who had experienced the depths of human depravity. Learn how you can apply these lessons to those in the hardest places of the world.
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2023-09-2643 minWitness & Persecution with Nik and Ruth RipkenTrauma and Tragedy on the Mission FieldIn part one of a two-part series, Nik reveals their deeply personal journey of various traumas in life, ministry, and missions. How do you stay on the mission field, remain in your ministry, or keep your family when you walk through the unthinkable? Nik challenges listeners to understand how being obedient to go to the edge of lostness can bring intense suffering and trauma - but that God still redeems and uses these for His glory. In part one of a two-part series, Nik reveals their deeply personal journey of various traumas in life, ministry, and missions. How do...
2023-09-191h 20Witness & Persecution with Nik and Ruth Ripken"It's Time"Nik walks through the most dangerous statement: "It's time". What decision do you need to make to be obedient right now? What situation is God commanding you to reconcile? Where is God commanding you to step out in faith? Join Nik as he shares his and Ruth's personal journey to discovering "It's time" to be obedient to the commands of Christ.
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2023-09-1255 minWitness & Persecution with Nik and Ruth RipkenHow to Pray for the PersecutedIdentifying with the persecuted is much more than just a day or week of prayer! Join Nik and Ruth as they share ways that we can develop a regular, consistent lifestyle of praying for, and identifying with, believers in persecution around the world.
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2023-09-0545 minWitness & Persecution with Nik and Ruth RipkenRedeeming the Breakfast TableNik and Ruth conclude a series on worship in the home by giving us a personal look into how they pray and worship around their breakfast table - whether as a couple, a family, with guests, and even the lost. Additionally, they share with listeners how they end their day in prayer and worship with a global perspective.
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2023-08-2939 minWitness & Persecution with Nik and Ruth RipkenFamily WorshipWhether you are overseas or in the Bible Belt of America, one of the most basic and crucial components of healthy believers is worship in homes. Nik and Ruth are joined by the their grandsons, Jonah and Maddox, to model the joy-filled and simple practice of family devotions. Come join them in their living room as they show you how to worship and pray together as a family!
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2023-08-0817 minWitness & Persecution with Nik and Ruth RipkenSeek Humanity in Stories of PersecutionFor those of us in the "open" countries, it's easy for us to dress up the suffering of believers in persecution. In this episode, Nik challenges listeners to identify with the real blood, sweat, and tears of the stories of persecution, truly grasping the human reality of suffering, and the real lives of people involved.
Check out the show notes and blog post related to this episode at https://www.nikripken.com/blog
Learn more about Nik Ripken's ministry at https://www.nikripken.com
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2023-08-0141 minWitness & Persecution with Nik and Ruth RipkenThe Factors That Keep Nations UnreachedNik concludes a series investigating why Unreached Peoples are still unreached by exploring the practical components that keep churches from sending and going. Nik looks at everything from the cost of personnel to weather. There are surprising reasons that are hard to overcome on our way to the hard places of the world.
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2023-07-251h 08
Redeemer Community ChurchSummer Talkback Series - Nik Ripken on Non-Negotiables from Believers in PersecutionABOUT NIK RIPKENNik Ripken, alongside his wife and three children, served as missionaries for over 32 years primarily in North Africa and the Middle East. Nik is one of the world’s foremost experts on the persecuted church and is the author of a number of books, including The Insanity of God and The Insanity of Obedience.ABOUT TALKBACKSOur Talkbacks are great opportunities to see how our faith engages with the world around us. This summer, we're excited to have four evenings that discuss how the gospel changes how we think about race, politics, th...
2023-07-201h 29Witness & Persecution with Nik and Ruth RipkenWhy Are the Unreached... Unreached?As we reflect on the persisting challenge of unreached countries, Nik Ripken invites us to reconsider our approach. By embracing the hard places and equipping local believers, we unlock the untapped potential to reach the darkest corners of the world. By choosing to go to the hard places, we foster sustainable movements, bridge cultural divides, and empower communities to become biblical advocates.
Check out the show notes and blog post related to this episode at https://www.nikripken.com/blog
Learn more about Nik Ripken's ministry at https://www.nikripken.com
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2023-07-191h 20Witness & Persecution with Nik and Ruth RipkenReaching the Unreached NationsIn this episode, Nik Ripken explains the challenging task of reaching the unreached nations. He candidly addresses the notion that the efforts required to reach just one believer in hard and unresponsive places might not seem cost-effective. It often demands substantial resources and even the lives of dedicated believers. However, Nik's unwavering conviction is that the mission to reach the unreached is not about cost-efficiency: it's about obedience to the Great Commission.
Check out the show notes and blog post related to this episode at https://www.nikripken.com/blog
Learn more about Nik Ripken's ministry at https://www...
2023-07-051h 12Witness & Persecution with Nik and Ruth RipkenBuilding a Sending & Going CultureBest friends Nik and Pastor Tim sit down for an authentic conversation about how pastors and churches can effectively connect church members to every part of the Great Commission.
Check out the show notes and blog post related to this episode at https://www.nikripken.com/blog/
Learn more about Nik Ripken's ministry at https://www.nikripken.com
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2023-06-131h 03Witness & Persecution with Nik and Ruth RipkenAuthentic CommunityIn this episode, Nik unveils a heartfelt tale that transcends borders and celebrates the profound beauty of cultural exchange. He teaches us about the Xhosa naming ceremony for newborns. What does the naming culture in Xhosa teach us about authentic community?
Check out the show notes and blog post related to this episode at https://www.nikripken.com/authentic-community/
Learn more about Nik Ripken's ministry at https://www.nikripken.com
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2023-06-0656 minWitness & Persecution with Nik and Ruth RipkenWho Is My Neighbor?Jesus gives us a direct command on how we are to treat our "neighbor". To fulfill that command, what should it look like, and to whom is it directed? In this episode, Ruth takes a deep dive into the world of Biblical hospitality, offering wisdom and tips gathered from decades overseas amongst various cultures.
Check out the show notes and blog post related to this episode at https://www.nikripken.com/who-is-my-n...
Learn more about Nik Ripken's ministry at https://www.nikripken.com
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2023-05-2453 minWitness & Persecution with Nik and Ruth RipkenPlaying Church vs. Being ChurchIn this episode, Nik Ripken delves into the profound distinction between merely going through the motions of church life and truly embodying the essence of what it means to be a follower of Christ. Drawing from his extensive global experiences and encounters with persecuted Christians, Nik sheds light on the challenges, misconceptions, and transformative power that comes with living out an authentic faith.
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2023-05-1747 minWitness & Persecution with Nik and Ruth RipkenSheep Among Wolves: Christian Missionaries in SomaliaFor 7 years, Nik and Ruth ministered in one of the harshest environments in Somalia. Faced with severe famine, starvation, destruction, and war, Nik gives poignant insight on what it means to not only take risks for Jesus, but what it truly means to be a witness for the Gospel.
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2023-05-0349 minWitness & Persecution with Nik and Ruth RipkenHow Do Missionaries Learn Languages? | Witness & Persecution Podcast with Ruth & Nik RipkenIn this episode of the Witness & Persecution Podcast, Nik Ripken reflects on how missionaries are able to learn languages so quickly. He has extensive experience as a missionary in some of the most challenging and remote regions of the world.
Nik emphasizes the importance of immersion in the local culture and language, as well as the value of building relationships with native speakers. He also stresses the need for patience, perseverance, and a willingness to make mistakes and learn from them.
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2023-04-261h 02Witness & Persecution with Nik and Ruth RipkenFrom Freedom to DisillusionmentIn this episode, Nik explores the challenges that Christian believers face when they move from countries where they are persecuted for their faith to the West, where they expect to find religious freedom. Unfortunately, many of these believers struggle with disillusionment. Emotional and physical scars from persecution lead to cultural and social challenges. An alarming number of believers abandon their faith after coming to the West. Why is this?
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2023-04-191h 06Witness & Persecution with Nik and Ruth RipkenWhich Call Is More Significant: To Go or Wait to Get Married?In this podcast episode, we discuss the lie of Satan that causes single women who desire to go on mission trips to feel conflicted about getting married. We explore how this lie can be overcome by prioritizing obedience to God’s calling and embracing one’s unique gifting. Ruth Ripken shares her experiences as a missionary worker and how she has seen women fulfill their purpose and impact lives even without a husband by their side. Join us as we debunk this lie and find a better way forward for single women who want to pursue their passion for miss...
2023-04-1130 minWitness & Persecution with Nik and Ruth RipkenAre Short Term Mission Trips Effective?Global travel has become more accessible than at anytime in history. With that accessibility has arisen a new and complex facet of missions: short term trips. Nik addresses a major lie of Satan that correlates with short term missions and the local church.
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2023-04-0652 minWitness & Persecution with Nik and Ruth RipkenAdvice for Parents of MissionariesThe hardest task is not going, but sending. In this episode, Nik unpacks the lie that too many parents, families, and churches have believed about God's command to go to the nations.
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2023-03-231h 06Witness & Persecution with Nik and Ruth RipkenShould I Reach My Own Country First?One of the biggest lies the Church has believed is that there is simply too much need in our own backyard to even think about going overseas. Â Nik dispels this lie and discusses how we often try to find exemptions to the Great Commission. Â Additionally, Nik addresses how the root of racism often prevents us from going to our "Judea" and beyond.
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2023-03-1654 minWitness & Persecution with Nik and Ruth RipkenIs the Great Commission for Everyone?In this episode, Nik deconstructs a fundamental lie from Satan that impacts how we view evangelism and the Great Commission. Â What's the difference between a command and a calling? How we answer that question will ultimately change the way we reach Jerusalem, Judea, Samaria, and the ends of the earth.
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2023-03-0150 minWitness & Persecution with Nik and Ruth RipkenWhy is Everyone Just Sitting There?Continuing "10 Lies Satan Has Told the Church", Nik explores the topic of the miraculous. Â Is it true that God is working in different ways overseas than He is here in the West? Â What lie have we believed about God's power that we think doesn't apply to how He is working in our lives today? Â Sign up for a Night of Worship on Sunday, February 26, 2023, featuring Shane & Shane, Nik Ripken, and Erskin: https://www.nikripken.com/worship/
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2023-02-2250 minWitness & Persecution with Nik and Ruth RipkenLies, Lies, and More LiesWe know that Satan is a liar. Â But how many of his lies do we actually believe, whether we realize it or not? Â In this epsiode, Nik begins a journey of discovering the Top 10 lies that Satan has told the Church, and many in the Church that have believed them.
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2023-02-1458 minWitness & Persecution with Nik and Ruth RipkenThis White Man Won't Let Me Come to Jesus!Buckle up! Â Nik follows up with the final 2 of the 4 questions that we need to answer to be an effective witness. Â These questions bring powerful conviction, and perhaps for many of us, an introspective diagnosis of where we might need to change our lifestyles and philosophies.
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2023-02-0857 minWitness & Persecution with Nik and Ruth RipkenDon't Mess with GrandmaIn today's world, many countries remain restrictive in their religious practices and beliefs. This has made it increasingly difficult for mission teams to bring the gospel to those living there. In this episode, we'll answer two of our four questions around being an effective witness in other nations. What do we say, and who do we say it to? Join Nik Ripken as he explains why it's key to start with the elders.
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2023-01-241h 02Witness & Persecution with Nik and Ruth RipkenSomalia And I Against The WorldNik recounts a powerful lesson from Somalia - "why would you lie to me?" Â The hardest of hearts can change when we give people a chance to see the light and say "yes" to Jesus.
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2023-01-1042 minWitness & Persecution with Nik and Ruth RipkenThe Genealogy of FaithDo you skip over the genealogies of the Bible? Â We may view them as just a list of names, but believers in persecution recognize that they are God telling His own story. Â Nik shares powerful teaching on the critical importance of a genealogy of faith amongst the unreached.
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2023-01-0449 minWitness & Persecution with Nik and Ruth RipkenAsk Us Anything!In this episode, Nik and Ruth Ripken take listener questions about life, ministry, missions, and everything in between.
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2022-12-271h 29Witness & Persecution with Nik and Ruth RipkenFreedom and FearIn the West, we often equate our ability to share Jesus with the rights and privileges afforded us by governments. But is that really true? Â In this episode, Nik Ripken shares from believers in persecution how our witness is not tied to any government, military, or constitution.
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2022-12-2053 minWitness & Persecution with Nik and Ruth RipkenBiblical Christianity is Persecuted Christianity"Like the sun rising in the East". Â That's how one believer categorized persecution for followers of Jesus. Â In this episode, Nik Ripken walks us through the first foundational principle of persecution, where we learn the Biblical relationship between our faith and suffering.
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2022-12-1351 minWitness & Persecution with Nik and Ruth RipkenDefining "Persecution"In this episode, Nik Ripken addresses the foundational understanding of persecution. Â What IS persecution, and why does it happen? Â Walking through another component of the "DNA of the Resurrection", Nik shares what believers in persecution know to be true about the cause of their suffering.
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2022-12-0748 minWitness & Persecution with Nik and Ruth RipkenThis is Church to UsDo you see the Church as a critical necessity? Caring for one another as the Body of Christ is a crucial part of the DNA of the Resurrection. In this episode, Nik Ripken discusses what true Biblical community looks like in places defined by persecution, and how the Western Church can adopt practices that will align themselves with a more Scriptural understanding of being the Body of Christ together.
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2022-11-301h 01Witness & Persecution with Nik and Ruth RipkenWhat's Your Verse? What's Your Song?Knowing God's Word is instrumental in helping believers thrive in persecution, and helping believers face the challenges of life. But how much of God's Word do you know? Nik Ripken walks us through the importance of internalizing the Word, and handing it down from generation to generation. Additionally, Nik shares extremely important missiological principles of oral learning and church planting in indigenous contexts.
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2022-11-2347 minWitness & Persecution with Nik and Ruth RipkenZebra Meat - How Do You Pray?How do you pray? In this episode, Nik Ripken documents the powerful, intimate, faith-filled prayer lives of believers in persecution. Â Continuing the "DNA of the Resurrection", he explores how believers experience victorious living through their genuine communication with God Almighty.
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2022-11-151h 01Witness & Persecution with Nik and Ruth RipkenYour Pastor Is DeadThe defining characteristic of believers in persecution is their victorious living through Jesus, in spite of severe suffering. Â In this episode, Nik teaches the first building block of the "DNA of the Resurrection". Â What must we have to live victoriously, and to understand both crucifixion and resurrection? Â Nik answers these questions and more through the story of believers in persecution throughout the Persian-speaking world.
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2022-11-0846 minWitness & Persecution with Nik and Ruth RipkenThe Rest of the StoryYou might know the story of Dimitri from "The Insanity of God".  But did  you know that only scratches the surface of his amazing testimony and  victorious faith in Jesus?  Nik Ripken walks through Dimitri's life,  incarceration, and how God used him powerfully even after 17 horrific  years in a Soviet prison.
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2022-10-251h 01Witness & Persecution with Nik and Ruth RipkenDevious PersecutionIn this episode, Nik Ripken shares insights into the methods of  persecution from the former Soviet Union.  Nik walks us through the  different responses that churches and church leaders had to persecution  within the former Soviet Union, where "top down" persecution resulted in  bite by bite, incremental swallowing up of the Church.  He also gives  valuable teaching on not repeating certain mistakes here in the West.
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2022-10-181h 01Witness & Persecution with Nik and Ruth RipkenThis One Comes Home With MeJourneying through war, famine, and devastation, Nik Ripken is confronted with the depths of human despair and brokenness in a Somali hospital. Â What would compel us to sacrificially go to the unreached and least reached with the love of Jesus? Â Nik shares a heart-breaking story about what it costs when we don't go to the nations.
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2022-10-1151 minWitness & Persecution with Nik and Ruth RipkenThe Five Responses to EvilRussia. Â Iran. Â Eritrea. Â Afghanistan. Â We are bombarded every day with the evils of this world. Â But we often filter it through the lens of secular media and news sources. Â Using principles learned from believers in persecution, Nik teaches how we as followers of Jesus can have a Biblical and Christ-centered response to the evils we encounter.
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2022-10-0453 min
The Passionately Devoted PodcastA Conversation with Nik RipkenOn today's episode, Pastor Lyle and Noah sit down with Nik Ripken, who is a missionary and the author of the widely popular and impactful book, The Insanity of God.  Nik and Ruth (his wife), with 3 children, served for over 32 years obeying Christ’s command to share Jesus across the globe. After 7 years in Malawi & South Africa, they moved to Nairobi, Kenya to begin work among the Somali people (1991-1997). Since that time (1998-2013) they have journeyed globally among people whom, when they gave their lives to Jesus, faced increasing persecution for their faith.Currently the...
2022-09-2849 minWitness & Persecution with Nik and Ruth RipkenSomali Refugee CampEvery believer gets knocked down at some point. Â But the important thing is to get back up! Nik recounts his first time in a Somali refugee camp - what he learned about second chances, and God's heart for the toughest people and places on the planet.
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2022-09-2744 minWitness & Persecution with Nik and Ruth RipkenSomalia’s Song Has DiedNik Ripken shares a gut-wrenching story from inside the war zones of Somalia, and introduces us to a hero in the faith. In the midst of suffering and chaos, he gives us insight into the power of singing God's heart and Word back to Him.
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2022-09-2044 minWitness & Persecution with Nik and Ruth RipkenCome Before WinterHow can we as the local church walk alongside believers to carry out the work of missions? Nik Ripken shares insights gained from meeting with believers in persecution and has a message for the body of Christ.
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2022-09-1330 minWitness & Persecution with Nik and Ruth RipkenMisconception of MissionsRuth Ripken shares about her conception of missions at the beginning of her time on the mission field and our misconception of missions and the application of scripture to help our understanding of missions.
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2022-09-0643 minWitness & Persecution with Nik and Ruth RipkenSomebody's ComingNik Ripken talks about what he wished he knew during his first year in Malawi and what God has taught him since.
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2022-08-3051 min
Witness & Persecution with Nik and Ruth RipkenThe BeginningHear how Nik and Ruth Ripken began this journey equipping and teaching biblical principles from believers in persecution. We also discuss the idea of command verses calling and hear the story of how Nik & Ruth met.
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2022-08-2740 min
Ministry Deep Dive#94 | Misconceptions of Persecution & Pain in Contemporary Christianity, Pt 2 | Nik RipkenThe paramount issue addressed in this discussion is the alarming absence of paternal figures within Western church life, particularly regarding their role in leading family worship within the home. Travis Michael Fleming and Nik Ripken engage in a profound dialogue that underscores the necessity for fathers to embrace their spiritual leadership, as this is deemed the most critical element missing from contemporary Christian practice. They explore the implications of modernity, including the incessant busyness that permeates our lives, which often detracts from meaningful familial connections and the nurturing of faith. Moreover, the conversation highlights the significance of hospitality and...
2022-03-1846 minMinistry Deep Dive#93 | Misconceptions of Persecution & Pain in Contemporary Christianity, Pt 1 | Nik RipkenTravis Michael Fleming and Nik Ripken engage in a profound discourse on the pressing topic of persecution within the Christian faith, aptly encapsulated by the notion of "the Insanity of Obedience." The primary thesis presented posits that the manner in which individuals respond to persecution is critical, particularly in contexts where the stakes are life and death, as evidenced by the harrowing experiences of believers in Somalia. They emphasize the necessity of understanding the cultural and contextual dynamics at play, advocating for a nuanced approach that prioritizes relationships and a deep comprehension of local realities over simplistic or Western-centric...
2022-03-1852 min