Shows
The Follower PodcastOne Heart 2, Session 5: Finding an address for the pain with Thirza KunnenIn this episode of the Follower Podcast, Thirza Kunnen shares her journey of finding God in rest and grace, her research on reconciliation in South Africa, and the powerful stories of pain and hope she encountered.
The conversation explores the significance of prayer, repentance, and the healing power of community, emphasizing the importance of understanding trauma and the role of prayer as a unifying force in diverse communities.
This series of conversations is a collaboration with 24-7 Prayer South Africa as part of the One Heart prayer initiative for reconciliation. You can get your prayer...2025-07-0751 minThe Follower PodcastOne Heart 2, Session 4: Hope in a Genocide with Reverend Joseph NyamuteraIn this conversation, Reverend Joseph Nyamutera shares his experiences of cultural identity, belonging, and the challenges of navigating relationships in a global context.
He reflects on his journey of faith, the impact of personal wounds on conflict, and the lessons learned from the Rwandan genocide.
The discussion emphasizes the importance of healing, reconciliation, and vulnerability in leadership, ultimately calling all believers to engage in the ministry of reconciliation.
To get a copy of the One Heart prayer guide and join in the 50 days of prayer for reconciliation go to the 24-7 Prayer South...2025-06-301h 02The Follower PodcastOne Heart 2, Session 3: The revolutionary nature of The Church with Phil WaglerIn this conversation, Matthew and Phil explore the themes of reconciliation, discipleship, and the role of the church in fostering a community that embodies the teachings of Jesus.
They discuss the importance of abiding in Christ, the ongoing journey of reconciliation, and the need for systemic change within the church and society.
The dialogue emphasises that true unity goes beyond mere coexistence and calls for a deeper, shared life among believers. Ultimately, they highlight the revolutionary nature of the church as a transformative presence in the world.
To get Phil's books you can...2025-06-2358 minThe Follower PodcastOne Heart 2, Session 2: Cheap reconciliation with Peter Tarantal and Alexander VenterIn this conversation, Matthew speaks with with Peter Tarantal and Alexander Venter on the themes of personal faith experiences, the importance of unity within the church, and the challenges of reconciliation in a divided society.
They reflect on their personal journeys with Jesus, the significance of community, and the need for the church to model unity as a witness to the world.
The discussion emphasizes the ongoing struggle for reconciliation in South Africa and the role of the youth in driving change.
Take Aways
Intentional time with Jesus is foundational for faith.
...2025-06-1648 minThe Follower PodcastOne Heart 2. Session 1: May we be one with Nkosinathi Mbuyazi and A.C. LeeIn this episode of the Follower podcast, Matthew sits down with Nkosinathi Mbuyazi, and A.C. Lee to discuss The One Heart Prayer Journey, emphasizing the importance of unity, reconciliation, and prayer in the church.
They explore Jesus' high priestly prayer, the urgency of prayer in today's divided world, and the introduction of a new prayer guide designed to facilitate personal and communal reconciliation.
The conversation also highlights the power of worship and the significance of humility in fostering unity among believers.
This episode also features an original song written by A.C. and other musicians in Nashville.
Take aways
...2025-06-0938 minThe Follower Podcast10: Calling all prophets, a poem by Puno SeleshoIn this episode Puno Selesho compiles a beautiful poem that communicates the key themes she experienced at the 24/7 Prayer South Africa National gathering. The poem is a powerful and compelling call to a deeper life of abiding and response.
You can find out more about the ministry of Follower by visiting www.wearefollower.com
You can get involved with the One Heart prayer guide by visiting www.24-7Prayerafrica.com
2025-06-0814 minThe Follower Podcast9: The inconvenient truth with Zikhona MaganaIn this episode Zikhona Magana of the 24-7 Prayer South Africa team shares her story of moving against the odds into the call of God on her life, working for justice in South Africa and why we all have an opportunity to build a better nation together.
You can find out more about the ministry of Follower by visiting www.wearefollower.com
You can get involved with the One Heart prayer guide by visiting www.24-7Prayerafrica.com
2025-06-0739 minThe Follower Podcast8: On being and doing with Sheila Wise RoweIn this episode Sheila Wise Rowe shares her insights and experiences from years in ministry around the tension between our being and our doing and how we live into that tension well. In particular she speaks about the communal imperative of the Christian faith and how we need one another in the journey.
You can find out more about the ministry of Follower by visiting www.wearefollower.com
You can get involved with the One Heart prayer guide by visiting www.24-7Prayerafrica.com
2025-06-0650 minThe Follower Podcast7: Contemplative activism with Brian HeasleyIn this episode Brian Heasley reminds us that prayer, mission and justice are inseparable and essential elements of the Christian life. Through his personal stories and helpful insights he helps us consider what it might live a life that is more radically given to partnership with Jesus in healing the world.
You can find out more about the ministry of Follower by visiting www.wearefollower.com
You can get involved with the One Heart prayer guide by visiting www.24-7Prayerafrica.com
2025-06-0549 minThe Follower Podcast6: Put away the sword with Nicholas RoweIn this episode Nicholas Rowe encourages us to heed the words of Jesus to Peter in the garden and 'Put away the sword'. He reminds us that while it can be tempting to build and minister according to the mechanisms of Empire, these strategies do not yield Kingdom fruit.
You can find out more about the ministry of Follower by visiting www.wearefollower.com
You can get involved with the One Heart prayer guide by visiting www.24-7Prayerafrica.com
2025-06-041h 09The Follower Podcast5: Return to God with Danielle StricklandIn this episode Danielle Strickland challenges us to really consider our images of God and ask what it might mean to return to and image of god that looks more like Jesus.
You can find out more about the ministry of Follower by visiting www.wearefollower.com
You can get involved with the One Heart prayer guide by visiting www.24-7Prayerafrica.com
2025-06-0321 minThe Follower Podcast4: A Kingdom kind of Church with Robert NtuliIn this episode Robert Ntuli brilliantly outlines a Kingdom vision for The Church and challenges us to repent from building after "patterns of Egypt" and return to building according to patterns of The Kingdom of God.
You can find out more about the ministry of Follower by visiting www.wearefollower.com
You can get involved with the One Heart prayer guide by visiting www.24-7Prayerafrica.com
2025-06-0247 minThe Follower Podcast3: Jesus and Justice with Rene AugustIn this episode we hear from Rene August, a veteran in the anti-Apartheid movement, anglican priest, reconciliation trainer and companion to churches wanting to respond to issues of poverty, injustice and division in their city.
Among other things Rene calls us to return to the Jesus of Bible and seek to walk faithfully in His way.
For more on the ministry of Follower you can visit www.wearefollower.com
2025-06-0134 minThe Follower Podcast2: A call to Action with Anneke RabeeIn this episode Matthew has a conversation with Anneke Rabee, a champion of prayer and reconciliation in South Africa and the nations of the world.
Anneke shares stories of prayer and reconciliation from her own life and challenges us as The Church to take hands with Jesus in the work of healing the deep wounds of our world.
To find out more about the ministry of Follower you can visit www.wearefollower.com
2025-05-3122 minThe Follower Podcast1: The invitation with Nkosinathi Mbuyazi and Danielle StricklandThis is a recording of the first session at the first national gathering for 24/7 Prayer South Africa . We will be releasing one session from the gathering every day for the next ten days as part of the build up to season two on the One Heart prayer series where we will be sharing conversations with leaders in the ministry of reconciliation from all over the world.
You can find out more about the One Heart Prayer journey here.
In this episode we hear from Nkosinathi Mbuyazi who reminds us that Joy is our strength and D...2025-05-3041 minThe Follower PodcastYes. But not like that. Reflections on the Triumphal entry.In this rough cut episode Matthew shares afew thoughts from a bedroom in Wales about the Triumphal entry.
In particular why the mechanisms of empire won't deliver the fruit of The Kingdom and why Jesus comes to save us from ourselves.
As always please like, share and leave a review. It helps us get these conversations to more people.
2025-04-1428 minThe Follower PodcastThe call to return with Nicholas Rowe and Sheila Wise RoweIn this episode Matthew has a discussion with Nicholas Rowe, and Sheila Wise Rowe about leadership, reconciliation, and the current challenges facing faith communities.
They explore the importance of returning to the authenticity of Christ amidst cultural Christianity, the historical context of co-opted faith, and the need for deep listening and discernment in today's world.
They also address the challenges of navigating diversity within the church and the importance of embracing a commitment to God's vision for the church and the need for prayer and guidance in this journey.
If you enjoyed this conversation you can hear more from both Nic...2025-03-1649 minThe Follower PodcastLiving in The Light with Danielle StricklandIn this conversation, Matthew speaks with Danielle Strickland about her experiences with failure, the current cultural shifts within the church, and the importance of returning to the teachings of Jesus.
In particular, we hope that the thoughts on the internal journey required to shed pretense, the role of addiction recovery in fostering vulnerability, the church's struggle with confession and accountability, and redefining success in ministry through the lens of radical love and the transformative power of Jesus' acceptance will be helpful for you.
To hear more from Danielle you could visit here site or join us at the 24/7 Prayer South Af...2025-03-0947 minThe Follower PodcastRevival of the ordinary with Brian HeasleyIn this conversation, Matthew and Brian Heasley discuss the 24-7 Prayer movement, focusing on Brian's experiences and insights from his role as the International Prayer Director.
They delve into Brian's journey, including his impactful work in Ibiza, where he engaged with the local community through prayer and service.
The discussion highlights the transformative power of prayer, the importance of perseverance in faith, and the stories of lives changed through mission work.
Brian also shares his personal journey of faith, struggles with addiction, and the transformative power of prayer, emphasizing the importance of perseverance in prayer.
The conversation culminates in an invi...2025-03-0236 minThe Follower PodcastWaiting on God with Nathi MbuyaziIn this episode, Matthew and Nkosinathi Mbuyazi discuss the upcoming 24/7 Prayer national gathering in South Africa, focusing on themes of prayer, reconciliation, and revival.
They explore how God is working in communities and nations, emphasizing the importance of authentic relationships and the church's role in revival.
The conversation highlights the significance of dependence on God and the call to return to Him, as well as the tangible effects of revival on society.
TAKEAWAYS
God is linking up the nations through relationship.
Reconciliation is not just a project, it's a calling.
The church is at the center of revival.
Our superpower as f...2025-02-2334 minThe Follower PodcastA conversation on prayer with James AladiranIn this conversation, Matthew and James Aladiran explore the journey of faith, prayer, and the stirring of desire for God.
James shares his background as a child of missionaries and how his early experiences with prayer shaped his relationship with God.
They discuss the current spiritual hunger in the world, particularly among the youth, and the importance of sustaining that hunger through discipline and effort.
The conversation emphasizes the need for a deep, personal relationship with God, built over time, and the balance between grace and personal effort in the Christian walk.
They also highlight the connection between prayer and holin...2025-02-1047 minThe Follower PodcastHuman 5: The Humanity of Jesus with Nathan FosterIn this final conversation discussing his new book, Matthew and Nathan Foster explore the profound themes of humanity, longing, and the nature of Jesus.
They discuss how our deepest longings for truth, goodness, and beauty find their fulfillment in the humanity of Jesus, who embodies these qualities.
The dialogue delves into the unexpected nature of God as revealed through Jesus, emphasizing intimacy, mutual self-disclosure, and the significance of suffering.
They reflect on the mystery of relationship with God and how longings can guide us toward a deeper understanding of our humanity.
...2025-02-0345 minThe Follower PodcastHuman 4: On Beauty with Jon WhiteAs part of a series discussing his first book, Matthew and Jon White explore the profound themes of beauty, creativity, and their integral roles in human experience and spirituality.
They discuss how beauty serves as a pathway to understanding God and the gospel, emphasizing that beauty is not merely aesthetic but a powerful force for hope and resistance in a troubled world.
The dialogue also touches on the importance of creativity in everyday life and how it connects us to our deepest longings and the divine.
Ultimately, they invite listeners to recognize beauty...2025-01-2744 minThe Follower PodcastHuman 3: On Goodness with Lisa KoonIn this conversation, Matthew and Lisa Koons explore the deep longings of the human heart, particularly focusing on the longing for Goodness.
They discuss the connection between prayer, mission, and justice, emphasizing the importance of seeing goodness in humanity despite its brokenness.
The dialogue delves into theological perspectives on Goodness, the impact of cultural definitions, and the significance of recognizing the inherent Goodness within each person as created in the image of God.
They discuss the journey of self-discovery in relation to God, the elusive nature of goodness as a divine attribute, and...2025-01-2045 minThe Follower PodcastHuman 2: On Truth with Liam ByrnesIn this conversation, Matthew and Liam Byrns delve into the profound themes of truth, goodness, and beauty as explored in Matthew's book.
They discuss the human longing for these ideals and how they can lead to a deeper understanding of Jesus.
The dialogue navigates the complexities of truth in a modern context, emphasizing the importance of personal encounters with truth, the historical lenses through which we view it, and the integration of intellect and emotion in our understanding of faith.
The conversation culminates in practical insights on living out truth in a relational...2025-01-1342 minThe Follower PodcastHuman 1: On Longing with Trevor HudsonIn this episode, Matthew and Trevor Hudson explore the themes of longing and the human experience as they discuss Matthew's upcoming book, 'Human'.
They delve into the nature of our longings, the tension between our deepest and strongest desires, and how these longings can lead us closer to God.
The conversation emphasizes the importance of relationships in navigating our longings and the transformative power of grace in our lives. Ultimately, they reflect on how our longings echo God's own desires for us, inviting us into a deeper relationship with Him.
Take aways
...2025-01-0642 minThe Follower PodcastYes, that's the god we don't believe in. Reflections on Love in an age of fearIn the final episode of our Advent series, Matthew reflects on how our views of God can be warped by those who claim to represent Him, how Jesus is the ultimate revelation of God and how the God we find in Jesus is a God of Love.
If you enjoyed this episode you can go a little deeper by subscribing at www.wearefollower.com to receive a devotional thought and some reflective exercises that will help you explore this concept.
As always, please leave a comment and share this episode with your world.
Fol...2024-12-2325 minThe Follower PodcastYou're not supposed to clap there. Reflections on Joy in an age of anguish.In the third episode of our Advent series, Matthew speaks about Joy. In particular, He considers how our pleasures call us deeper to Joy and how, in an age of anguish and scepticism, Joy may just be the revolution.
To dive deeper into this topic you can subscribe at www.wearefollower.com to receive weekly devotional thoughts and reflection exercises that take you deeper into the topic of each podcast.
As always don't forget to leave a review and share this episode with your world if you found it helpful.
The Follower Podcast is m...2024-12-1628 minThe Follower PodcastWhat do you mean He breathed on them? Reflections on Peace in an age of anxiety.This is the second episode in our Advent series. In this episode, Matthew explores the Shalom of Jesus and how it is much deeper than the fragile peace our culture pursues.
To explore this more, you can visit www.wearefollower.com and subscribe to receive weekly devotional reflections complimenting each episode and taking you a little deeper into the journey.
2024-12-0925 minThe Follower PodcastAnd then there was the longing. Reflections on Hope in an age of NihilismThis is the first episode in a four-part Advent series in which Matthew explores Hope, Peace, Joy, and Love to help us arrive at Christmas with wonder.
In this episode, Matthew discusses the realities of our longings and how, if we allow them to lead us well, they can cultivate a Hope in us that is anchored in Jesus and transformative for our lives.
Weekly reflections and exercises will also be sent out to help you go a little deeper into these topics. You can get those in your inbox by subscribing at www.wearefollower.co...2024-12-0230 minThe Follower PodcastEquipped in the prophetic with Christine WesthoffIn this episode, we team up with 24/7 Prayer South Africa and Christine Westhoff of Reframing The Prophetic for our first live Follower Podcast.
People tuned in from all over to listen to an online conversation about the prophetic and how we can walk in this gift in a biblically faithful way.
Christine offered some helpful perspectives, people were able to ask important questions and hopefully, we captured something that can benefit The Church at this time.
If you would like to connect more with 24/7 Prayer South Africa you can do so at their w...2024-11-2545 minThe Follower PodcastReconciling the Sexes with Katia Adams and Terran WilliamsIn this episode, we sit down with Katia Adams and Terran Williams to discuss the role of women in The Church and explore why a wound of which we seldom speak is, in fact, an issue of reconciliation that needs to be considered in the Christlike Spirit of Love.
Katia is an author, preacher, and the founding pastor of The Table Boston. Her book, Equal, explores what the bible says about Women, Men and authority and her online course called Her Voice is designed to equip women preachers. Katia is also married to Julian with whom she is...2024-08-0445 minThe Follower PodcastSocio-economic reconciliation with Dani Scott and Brandon BrandIn this episode we sit down with two friends from very different world to discuss what reconciliation across the socio-economic divide that is so present in South Africa and many other parts of the world might look like.
The gift of this conversation is that it's not purely theoretical. Both Dani and Brandon share insights on how we might become bridges in our divided societies that they have learned form participation in that holy, healing work.
As always we pray that this conversation will help you follow Jesus to the depths of His heart and th...2024-07-291h 00The Follower PodcastHealing wound of The Holy Land 2 with Dr Salim MunayerIn our desire to present a more balanced perspective on the current conflict happening in Israel and Palestine we wanted to speak to a Jew (As we did in the previous episode with Orna Grinman) and a Palestinian, which is what we have done in this episode.
Our guest for this conversation is Dr Salim Munayer.
Dr Munayer was born to a Christian Palestinian family in the city of Lydda where he interacted with the different Jewish, Muslim and Christian populations from a young age. From this diverse upbringing and after academic studies in theology...2024-07-261h 19The Follower PodcastHealing the wound of The Holy Land with Orna GrinmanFew regions in the world are as historically contested and culturally contentious as Israel, Palestine and the surrounding areas.
It would be easier to avoid discussing the conflict that currently rages there, it would certainly be less risky, but a podcast on reconciliation at this moment in history would be remiss in avoiding this conversation for the sake of playing it safe.
As a Jewish woman currently living in Jerusalem and inspired by her faith in Jesus (or Jeshua as she likes to call Him) Orna Grinman has been working for reconciliation between Jews and A...2024-07-2246 minThe Follower PodcastLambert Bariho and Bruno Iradukunda on Reconciliation in RwandaIn this episode, we sit down with Lambert Bariho and Bruno Iradukunda.
As men who have every reason to hate one another having been on opposite sides of the Rwandan genocide, they have found a place in Jesus not only to come together but to work together for the healing of their nation.
You can learn more about Ellel ministries in Rwanda here
As always, if you found this conversation helpful please leave a review, make sure you are subscribed and share with your world.
If you would like to help...2024-07-1550 minThe Follower PodcastEdwin Arrison and Cornelis Janse van Rensburg on The Pilgrimage of Grace and reconciliation in South AfricaIn this episode, we sit down with Edwin Arrison and Cornelis Janse van Rensburg to discuss the inspiring story of The Pilgrimage of Grace. A work of reconciliation between the Dutch Reformed Church and The Moravian Church in Genadendal, South Africa.
We also discuss important concepts about unity and reconciliation that both of these men have learned through many years of working for reconciliation in the South African context.
As always, if you found this conversation helpful please, subscribe, review, and share it with your world or consider giving a once-off or ongoing donation to he...2024-07-0849 minThe Follower PodcastLanga Mbonambi on why Jesus is the hope of the nationsIn this conversation with Langa Mbonambi from the We Will Worship Movement we hear his story of growing up in South Africa, his thoughts on reconciliation, the ways he is working to facilitate it in his context, and why (in the end) it all comes down to following Jesus.
We also include a clip from the latest We Will Worship album, Izililo. You can find the full album here
As always please like, share, rate, comment and subscribe. It helps us get conversations like these to more people.
If you would like to su...2024-07-011h 00The Follower PodcastChloe Snyder on Reconciliation as the miracle of internal liberationIn this episode, we sit down with Chloe Snyder, a missionary with YWAM Durban, to discuss her insights and perspectives from completing a Masters in Reconciliation with The University of Winchester in England.
If you're interested in some of the deeper invitations around the idea of reconciliation, or if you struggle with an internal conflict of your own, then I trust that this conversation will be a gift to you as it was to me.
As always, please subscribe, review and share this episode with the people in your world if you found the conversation he...2024-06-2439 minThe Follower PodcastAnneke Rabe and Nkosinathi Mbuyazi on the One Heart prayer initiative and the call to reconciliationIn this episode, we sit down with Anneke Rabe and Nkosinathi Mbuyazi to kick off a series on reconciliation called One Heart.
In conjunction with a 50-day prayer guide that 24/7 Prayer has put together, you can look forward to several conversations over the next few weeks exploring the call to reconciliation for those of us who follow Jesus.
You can learn more about 24/7 prayer and sign up for the 50-day prayer journey to receive your free prayer guide by clicking here.
2024-06-1751 minThe Follower PodcastGrowing in Prayer with Nkosinathi MbuyaziNkosinathi Mbuyazi is the leader of 24/7 Prayer South Africa. In this episode, we sit down to discuss his journey in prayer, hear his reflections on why we tend to find prayer challenging and consider how we might reach a younger generation.
To find out more about 24/7 Prayer South Africa including how to register your church or community to host a week of prayer you can visit their website at www.24-7prayerafrica.com
2024-02-1944 minThe Follower PodcastThe Gospel according to Dallas Willard with Michael Stewart RobbIn this episode, we sit down with Michael Stewart Robb to discuss his thoughts on Dallas Willard, his work with the Sanctus Institute in developing a culture of Spiritual Formation in Europe, and his latest documentary; Alone Together. It is a film that documents a retreat he facilitated which he is now using to start a conversation around formation in communities that need it.
You can learn more about Mike, including where to get his book on The Gospel according to Dallas Willard, and how to host a screening of his documentary in your community by...2024-02-1250 minThe Follower PodcastReframing the Prophetic with Christine WesthoffIn this episode, we speak with Christine Westhoff of 24/7 Prayer about her book on reframing the prophetic.
Christine helps us understand everything from what the Prophetic is from a Biblical perspective, to why it is one of the key issues facing The Church at this time.
You can find the book and the course at www.reframingtheprophetic.com
If you found this conversation helpful, please like, share, subscribe, and leave a review.
If you want to support this work financially so we can produce more conversations like this, you can visit www...2024-02-0542 minThe Follower PodcastThe Power of Scripture with Jolien WolfsenIn this episode, Matthew talks with Jolien Wolfsen about the power of scripture. Jolien is a missionary with YWAM Kona who, among other things, helps lead a school called Revival and Reformation.
In this episode, we discuss the concepts of revival, awakening, personal reformation, and the gift of a biblical worldview for individuals, nations, and societies.
If you're looking for a conversation to refresh your passion for the bible, this is it.
Please like, share, subscribe, and leave a review. It helps us get this podcast in the ears of more people.
If...2024-01-2944 minThe Follower PodcastSoul Care with Trevor HudsonIn this episode, we have a conversation with Trevor Hudson about the care of the soul.
Among other things, we speak about what the soul is, what some of the threats to the health of our souls are, and how we might shape our lives to cultivate a healthy soul.
As always, please like, share, subscribe, and leave a review to help get this podcast in other people's ears.
If you found this conversation helpful and would like to help us make more podcasts like this, you can give a once-off or ongoing don...2024-01-2247 minThe Follower PodcastTowards Wholeness With Madz DeyzelIn this episode, we speak with Madz Deyzel of Edify about how we might live into greater wholeness this year.
The conversation covers a lot of ground, but a common thread is ensuring that our identity is anchored in Jesus.
As always, please like, share, subscribe, and leave a review.
If you would like to help us make more podcasts like this with a once-off or ongoing donation you can do so at www.wearefollower.com
2024-01-1554 minThe Follower PodcastHow to be unsuccessful with Pete PortalIn this conversation, Pete talks about how choosing unsuccess might be the best path to human flourishing. He shares his own story and the struggles that inspired this idea. In addition, he invites us to consider an alternative way of ordering our lives that looks less like the messages filling billboards and magazines and more like the one of scripture.
As always, please like, share, subscribe, and leave a review if you found this conversation helpful. You can also give a once-off donation or become a monthly supporter by visiting www.wearefollower.com to make more episodes li...2024-01-0843 minThe Follower PodcastThe Prayer of Examen with Matthew LewisIn this episode, our very own Matthew Lewis runs us through an introduction to the prayer of Examen. In particular, he looks at this prayer form through a historical, biblical, and sociological lens to help us understand where it came from, how we can find scriptural validity for it, and why it's a valuable practice in our time.
As always, if you found this episode helpful please like, share, subscribe, and leave a review. If you would like to help us create more content like this with a once-off or ongoing donation you can do that by...2023-12-0426 minThe Follower PodcastIntercessory prayer with Jill WeberIn the second episode of our three-part series on prayer, Jill Weber gives us some valuable insight into the practice of intercessory prayer.
Jill serves with 24/7 Prayer in several capacities including helping establish a community of prayer at Waverly Abbey.
But, more than any of the roles that she fulfills, her greatest gift is the person she has become in a life given to prayer. It's from this rich resource that she serves us in this episode. We hope you find it helpful.
As always, please like, share, subscribe, and leave a review. It...2023-11-2726 minThe Follower PodcastContemplative prayer with Liam ByrnesThis is the first episode in a three-part series on prayer. In this episode, Liam Byrnes introduces us to contemplative prayer. Among other things, Liam explores the prayer forms of Lectio Divina, Centering prayer, and imaginative prayer.
If you found this episode helpful please like, share, and leave a review.
If you would like to help us keep creating content like this please consider becoming a financial supporter of the podcast with a once-off or monthly donation at www.wearefollower.com
2023-11-2032 minThe Follower PodcastThe Rough Cuts: Deliver us from EvilIn the final episode of The Rough Cuts series, Matthew shares a few thoughts on the realities of Evil and our need for deliverance.
This is the final episode in the Lord's prayer series. Please like, share, and leave a review if you find it helpful.
2023-11-1325 minThe Follower PodcastThe Rough Cuts: TemptationIn this episode, Matthew shares a few thoughts on temptation inviting us out of any condemnation we might carry in our weakness and encouraging us to build our lives on scripture as a pre-emtive way of resisting temptation.
2023-11-0913 minThe Follower PodcastThe Rough Cuts: ForgivenessIn this episode of the rough cuts, Matthew shares thoughts on the power of forgiveness.
In particular, he speaks about acknowledging our need for forgiveness, rejoicing in God's desire to forgive us, forgiving ourselves, and forgiving others.
We hope this episode serves you well.
Please like, comment, share, and leave a review. It helps the podcast get in people's ears.
2023-10-2219 minThe Follower PodcastThe Rough Cuts: Our Daily BreadIn this episode Matthew continues our journey through the Lord's prayer by sharing a few thoughts on what it means for us to pray for our daily bread.
If this episode is helpful for you please share it with your world and leave review, it helps us get the podcast into the ears of more people.
2023-10-1521 minThe Follower PodcastThe Rough Cuts: Your Will be doneIn this episode, Matthew uses the model of Awakening, purgation, Illumination, and union as offered in Robert Mulholland's Invitation to a Journey to discuss the process of moving from willfulness to willingness in our relationship with God.
Find the book here.
2023-10-0822 minThe Follower PodcastThe Rough Cuts: Kingdom ComeIn this episode, Matthew offers a few unedited thoughts on what we mean when we pray for God's Kingdom to come. In particular, he considers the Kingdom of God and how it comes to our lives.
You might like to watch the following teaching from Dallas Willard for more on this topic.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=7mY1gTqTUVQ
2023-10-0115 minThe Follower PodcastThe Rough Cuts: HolyIn the third episode of the rough cuts, Matthew shares thoughts on what Jesus means by inviting us to pray that The Father's name would be kept Holy in our lives. In particular, he invites us to consider the call to have our lives rightly ordered under the rule and reign of God.
2023-09-2412 minThe Follower PodcastThe Rough cuts: In HeavenIn this second episode of the rough cuts Matthew shares a few thoughts about the Transcendent Immanence of God that is to be discovered in the reality of a Father who is in Heaven.
2023-09-1710 minThe Follower PodcastThe Rough Cuts: Our FatherWelcome to the first in a series of raw, unedited episodes that we're calling The Rough Cuts. In this episode Matthew pulls up a chair in the garden as the sun sets over the Durban horizon and birds settle in for the night to share a few thoughts on approaching God as Our Father.
Matthew references Tyler Staton's book; Praying Like Monks Living Like Fools in this episode. You can find it HERE
2023-09-0818 minThe Follower PodcastCommunion 3: ExpectationIn this episode, Matthew ends the three-part series in communion by pointing us forward to the marriage supper of the lamb and helping us understand the significance of our future hope and how it changes our present lives.
If you would like to explore the practices mentioned in the podcast you can visit www.wearefollower.com
2023-08-2148 minThe Follower PodcastCommunion 2: RemembranceIn this episode, Langa Mbonambi of the We Will Worship movement speaks to us about the Passover meal, how Jesus is the ultimate fulfillment of this ancient practice, and how remembrance is so crucial to a life of obedience.
2023-08-1446 minThe Follower PodcastCommunion 1: Between two treesIn this episode, Matthew introduces the communion focus in light of the Acts 2:42 community. He also gives a high-altitude overview of some of the stories that communion points us toward in the bible.
2023-08-0736 minThe Follower PodcastWe are Follower: Missionally Present, a conversation with Lisa KoonsIn this episode, we sit down with Lisa Koons to discuss what it means to be missionally present in our lives and as a community.
Lisa is the National Mission & Justice Director for 24-7 Prayer USA. She helps lead teams & launch initiatives that equip people to talk & walk with God & do good in the world. Lisa lives as an urban missionary mobilizing prayer, mission & justice, efforting the work of diversity, & is a spiritual director to faith leaders around the globe.
To find Lisa's book, Martyrs Wine, you can follow this link.
For more from...2023-03-271h 10The Follower PodcastWe are Follower: Intimacy Called. A conversation with Amy DinhIn this episode, we sit down with Amy Dinh to talk about what it means to live in deep intimacy with Jesus.
Amy is a missionary who has served in various regions worldwide from South Asia, to Southern Africa and beyond.
As a member of the Follower community, Amy carries the heart of what God has been building in our midst over the last few years with a passion that we hope will impact you as you listen to this conversation.
For more information on Follower, you can visit www.wearefollower.com
2023-03-1948 minThe Follower PodcastWe are Follower: Fully surrendered, Part 2In this second part of our two-part conversation with Beth, a missionary in North Africa, we continue hearing her story of surrender in her friendship with Jesus.
Beth speaks openly about here abusive marriage, her painful divorce, her miraculous recovery, and the God who resurrected her through it all.
For more from Follower, you can visit www.wearefollower.com
2023-03-1552 minThe Follower PodcastWe are Follower: Fully Surrendered Part 1In the first part of this two-part conversation, we speak with Beth. Beth is a missionary in North Africa sharing the Gospel in unreached and closed Islamic regions.
For her safety and the safety of her team, we can't use her real name or location, but we hope this conversation where she shares her story of surrender to Jesus through deep suffering will inspire you into a fully surrendered life of your own.
2023-03-1239 minThe Follower PodcastWe are Follower: Jesus CenteredIn this episode, we discuss the first Follower value of being Jesus centered. Using Matthew 16:13-20 we look at what it means to live into the revelation of who Jesus is in the midst of a contested and confused culture.
If this episode served you well please consider leaving a review and sharing it with your world.
For more from Follower you can visit www.wearefollower.com
2023-03-0654 minThe Follower PodcastWe are follower: Community. A conversation with Chloe, Dani and TiaanIn the episode, Matthew sits down with three people in the Follower community to discuss the call, the cost, and the gift of community in learning and practicing the way of Jesus.
For more from Follower including a blog post that digs deeper into this idea you can visit www.wearefollower.com
2023-02-271h 03The Follower PodcastWe are Follower: A conversation with Trevor Hudson about learning and practiceTrevor Hudson is a Methodist minister, pastoral therapist, and retreat leader in South Africa. He is the author of several books and travels widely to conduct conferences, workshops, and retreats
In this episode Matthew speaks with Trevor about learning and practice in the way of Jesus. Among others things, Trevor reminds us in this conversation that we do not think or control our way into deeper friendship with Jesus. We interact our way there.
To find Trevors' book Seeking God, you can follow this link
To find out more about follower you can vi...2023-02-2342 minThe Follower PodcastWe are Follower: Learning and practiceIn this episode, Matthew shares some reflections on Matthew 11:28-30. He speaks about what it means to take the yoke of Jesus upon you, and how that relates to learning and practicing the way of Jesus.
You can find a blog post that dives deeper into this idea and get more information about Follower by visiting www.wearefollower.com
2023-02-2044 minThe Follower PodcastWe are Follower: A conversation with Mark Scandrette on The Way of Jesus.Mark Scandrette is an internationally recognized expert in practical Christian spirituality, and the founding director of ReIMAGINE: A center for integral Christian practice.
He is the author of a number of books including, Practicing the way of Jesus, making him a great guest for this episode where we discuss what The Way of Jesus is and how it differs from contemporary Christianity. Mark also offers some helpful signposts as to how we live in Jesus' way in our everyday lives and encourages us to ask important questions of our own faith journeys and how they do or d...2023-02-131h 01The Follower PodcastWe are Follower: Why?This is the first episode in a new series on the Follower Podcast called We Are Follower.
In this series, we will explore why Follower exists, what a community of learning and practice in the way of Jesus is, and who God has called us to be in His big story as we follow Him to the depths of his heart and the ends of the earth.
In this episode Matthew explores the parable of the hidden treasure to paint a picture of the why behind the what of the follower community.
For mor...2023-02-0634 minThe Follower PodcastA conversation with Christine WesthoffChristine is the Author and developer of ReFraming the Prophetic, a biblical reflection course on the gift and purpose of the prophetic. She serves on the Int’l team for 24-7 Prayer and is the founder of Akouo Missions.
In this conversation, we talk about Christine's life, faith, and the many tensions she carries in walking that out. We also talk about the prophetic. What it is, what it isn't and how to learn to hear the voice of God and partner with Him to serve His purposes in the earth.
2023-01-3059 minThe Follower PodcastA conversation with Craig Westhoff: Part 2This is the second in a two-part conversation with Craig Westhoff.
In this episode, we talk about our transcendent need for God, moving from binary judgmentalism to compassionate co-investigation with Christ, and the importance of removing ourselves from the center of our stories.
If you would like to hear more from Craig and explore the work he does with Illuminated soul you can visit him on his website.
www.illuminatedsoul.org
2022-12-2652 minThe Follower PodcastA conversation with Craig Westhoff: Part 1This is the first in a two-part conversation with Craig Westhoff.
In this conversation, we hear Craig's story of growing up with a father who was once a Franciscan friar and a mother who was once in a catholic convent. We talk about Craig's journey through new-age spirituality to Christ, His own experience of clinical depression, and how God has used that to lead him into the work that he does with illuminated soul.
Illuminated soul is a place where Craig offers spiritual direction & practical tools for emotional, mental, and spiritual health and well-being.
2022-12-1947 minThe Follower PodcastA conversation with Afrika MhlopeAfrika Mhlophe has been in ministry since 1998 and in 2002 he became the leading pastor of Good News Community Church in Port Elizabeth.
He ministers across South Africa with a primary focus on calling Christians to bring kingdom influence into every domain of life. This is why he speaks and writes on difficult subjects such as racism, corruption, and idolatry.
In this conversation, we talk about culture and the importance of being defined by Christ alone.
Afrika's books include:
Christianity and the Veneration of the Dead
Freed by God Imprisoned by Culture
A Pa...2022-12-1241 minThe Follower PodcastA conversation with Jill WeberLife can sometimes be monotonous, perilous, and occasionally wondrous. In this conversation with Jill Weber, we unpack how we can reconnect with our Heavenly Father when life feels blurry, and look at the beautiful, powerful, invaluable gift of prayer.
Jill Weber serves on 24-7 Prayer’s International Leadership team and is the Director of Spiritual Formation at Emmaus Road Church in Guildford. She is also the Global Convenor of the Order of the Mustard Seed, a lay ecumenical religious order.
In this episode, she shares her gift of poetry with us, quoting extracts from her bo...2022-12-0854 min
The Follower PodcastA conversation with Jill WeberLife can sometimes be monotonous, perilous, and occasionally wondrous. In this conversation with Jill Weber, we unpack how we can reconnect with our Heavenly Father when life feels blurry, and look at the beautiful, powerful, invaluable gift of prayer.
Jill Weber serves on 24-7 Prayer’s International Leadership team, and is the Director of Spiritual Formation at Emmaus Road Church in Guildford. She is also the Global Convenor of the Order of the Mustard Seed, a lay ecumenical religious order.
In this episode, she shares her gift of poetry with us, quoting extracts from her boo...2022-12-0554 minThe Follower PodcastA conversation with Jay KimThe technologies of our day are determined to keep us scrolling and swiping at all costs, plugged into a feedback loop of impatience, comparison, outrage, and contempt.
How are followers of Jesus supposed to respond? What would it feel like to acknowledge God's holy presence in that space?
Jay Kim, author of 'Analog Christian: Cultivating Contentment, Resilience, and Wisdom in the Digital Age' talks to us about how we can cultivate the contentment, resilience, and wisdom to not only survive but to thrive as we navigate the specific challenges of our ag...2022-11-0738 minThe Follower PodcastA conversation with Alan FrowAlan Frow joins us for a conversation on the wellbeing of our souls, spiritual depression, discovering comfort in the Psalms, and finding peace in a relationship of surrender with our Heavenly Father.
“Our souls are not downcast because they are empty, but because they are full. So often we fill them with the wrong things… but in the Psalms we see how we can pour out our soul. In doing that, we are plunged into a waterfall of God’s love.”
Links to resources referenced:
‘Psalms for a Saturated Sou...2022-10-2451 minThe Follower PodcastA conversation with Pete PortalThere are people who live the Gospel in such a compelling way that it inspires you to do the same. Pete Portal is one of those people. Having lived and ministered in Mannenberg, Cape Town for the past 15 years, Pete has many stories to tell about what it means to follow Jesus to the depths and the ends. Pete is a husband to his wife Sarah, father to his daughter Simi, servant at Tree of life Mannenberg, and author of the book No neutral ground. But above all that, he is a follower of Jesus. As always I hope...2022-08-1558 minThe Follower PodcastA conversation Langa MbonambiLanga Mbonambi is a founder and member of the We Will Worship movement.
You might be familiar with We Will Worship through songs like Malibongwe, Come Holy Spirit, and more. What you might not know is that Langa is also a husband and father to 4 children, a pastor, a teacher, and a businessman running a clothing label called Sinkwa Sethu.
In this episode, we hear Langa's story. What it was like growing up in the back end of Apartheid through the tensions of township life and private school education. His experience as a model in...2022-08-011h 10The Follower PodcastA conversation with Carl TinnionCarl Tinnion is an Englishman who has worked with YWAM (Youth With A Mission) since 1994. Trying to define him is a bit like trying to nail jelly to a wall. He is unconventional to say the least.
Having ministered in over 45 countries, led a number of missionary training communities, served as the National Director for YWAM England for 6 years as well as the European Regional Chair for over 10 years, and completed his master's degree in Applied Theology and Reflective Practice, Carl comes with a wealth of knowledge and depth of insight that I found so encouraging.
C...2022-07-2549 minThe Follower PodcastA conversation with Madz DeyzelMadz Deyzel is the founder of an organization called Edify that seeks to partner with local churches in order to offer hope to communities struggling with mental health needs.
Madz has an BA Hons degree in Theology & Counselling through Brunel University UK & London School of Theology
In this conversation, we speak about her own story of healing and how that has led her to the work she does now. We also talk about the importance of knowing our identity in Christ and living in the truth of who God says we are.
I foun...2022-07-1835 minThe Follower PodcastA conversation with John LennoxIn this episode, we talk with John Lennox. A professor of Mathematics at Oxford University, an internationally renowned speaker, and author of several books on the interface of science, philosophy, and religion.
John helps us critically think through the value and validity of the Christian faith in the midst of the many ideologies that fill the narrative of our time.
Resources mentioned in this podcast include the following.
- Determined to believe, John Lennox
- Against the flow, John Lennox
- Where is God in a Coronavirus world, John L...2022-07-1139 minThe Follower PodcastA conversation with Os GuinnessIn this episode, we sit down with Os Guinness for a brain-teasing, faith-stirring discussion on a broad range of subjects including worldview, secularism, and what it might mean to be a person of faith in the midst of a rapidly changing world.
You can find more from Os on his website
2022-05-301h 02The Follower PodcastInto the Deep 7: Nathan FosterIn this episode, we speak with Nathan Foster about the paradox of a good God, a hurting world, and how we can move into the beauty of mystery.
If you are wanting to find more of Nathan's work you can do so here:
Podcasts
The making of an ordinary saint
Wisdom Chaser
2022-04-111h 03The Follower PodcastInto the Deep 6: Rich HodgeIn this episode, we sit down with Rich Hodge as he shares what he has learned over a lifetime of walking through storms with Jesus. We hear his heart as a grieving grandfather and glean his courage as a faithful follower even in the midst of his own pain.
If you would like Rich to come and minister in your community you can get hold of him here: richlynnspeaker@gmail.com
To get hold of the book Rich mentions by Skye Jethani, you can follow this link.
2022-04-0440 minThe Follower PodcastInto the Deep 5: Xavier MoranIn this episode, I speak with long-time friend Xavier Moran about his journey through personal reformation and the challenges and joys of caring for his mother in her time of need.
For more of Xavier's work and to listen to his podcast you can visit his website here.
2022-03-281h 00The Follower PodcastInto the Deep 4: Trevor HudsonI sit down with Trevor Hudson, writer, lecturer, and spiritual director, to discuss the realities of suffering and the choices that lay before us as we find Jesus and join Jesus in the midst of a broken world.
You can find Trevor's new book here.
2022-03-2038 minThe Follower PodcastInto the Deep 3: Strahan ColemanIn this episode, I speak to Strahan Coleman of Commoners Communion about his journey through suffering and how he is finding Jesus in the midst of it all.
You can find out more about Strahan here:
Commoners communion
Strahan Instagram
Commoners Instagram
2022-03-1357 minThe Follower PodcastInto the Deep 2: Carolyn ArendsIn this episode, I speak with Carolyn Arends about her own experience with suffering and some of the insights and perspectives she has gleaned along the way to follow Jesus into the deep.
You can find out more about what Carolyn is doing in the following places.
Renovare
Her Website
Instagram
2022-03-0750 minThe Follower PodcastInto the deep: IntroductionIn this episode, I share a little bit of my own journey over the last few months and speak about a new series on The Follower Podcast called Into the Deep.
The C.S Lewis quote on pain being God's megaphone can be found in his book, The problem of pain.
The scripture passage I use is Luke 5:1-8
You can stay connected with all things Follower on our new Instagram Page
2022-02-2819 minThe Follower PodcastA conversation with Andy SquyresI first came across Andy through his music, most recently I've been deeply encouraged by his writing. After one particularly poignant post, I reached out to him and asked if he would join me for a conversation on the podcast. He agreed, and this is what came out.
Who is Andy? In his own words...
"I am a man in my late forties. I have been married to my wife for 27 years. All my children are beautiful and smart. I have one grandchild and he is the joy of my life. I work as a p...2021-11-2251 minThe Follower PodcastInquire: Why Jesus is more intelligent than we could imagine, and why we should pay attention.In this episode, I speak about what it means to inquire of the Lord. I discuss the two lies of our assumed competence and Jesus' assumed ignorance. And, I call us to the kind of repentance that hanging on every word from the mouth of god in the midst of a world that is trusting in everything else.
I also answer a question from a freind of the show around Christ-centered preaching and making room to gaze at the beauty of God in our gatherings.
As always, it's fully loaded. I hope it helps you fo...2021-09-1351 minThe Follower PodcastGaze: The matchless beauty of Jesus and its power to change our livesIn this episode, I ask the critical question; "Is Jesus beautiful to you?" Not just true, or good, not the right thing to do... Is he beautiful? From here, I discuss the importance of moving away from a spirituality of fleeting glances to focussed gazing on the beauty of God.
Resources referenced in the podcast can be found here:
Beauty will save the world.
The weight of glory.
2021-09-0642 minThe Follower PodcastDwell: Why God is closer than you think, and how to let him find youIn this episode, we explore another thought from Psalm 27:4. "That I may dwell in the house of the Lord, all the days of my life."
I draw on wisdom from John Mark Comer's "Ruthless Elimination of Hurry", as we look at what it means to truly dwell with God and live as mini temples carrying the Spirit into a chaotically busy culture.
As always please subscribe, share and leave a review of this episode. It helps us get these ideas into the ears of those who need to hear them.
Also, I would l...2021-08-3042 minThe Follower PodcastSeek: The necessary hiddenness of God, and the invitation to draw near.In this episode, we explore a second thought from Psalm 27:4. "One thing I desire, that will I seek after."
I draw on some thoughts from C.S Lewis and Dallas Willard on the necessary hiddenness of God and discuss James K.A Smith's ideas on finding a Model and a method in our journey of seeking God.
As always please subscribe, share and leave a review of this episode. It helps us get these ideas into the ears of those who need to hear them.
Also, I would love to hear your questions aro...2021-08-2344 minThe Follower PodcastOne Thing: Biblical anthropology and the engine of desire.In this episode, I reflect on the first line of Psalm 27:4.
"One thing I have desired".
For me, the key issues around this involve understanding who we are and how we work and allowing The Spirit to lead us to deep repentance around what we actually want.
Don't forget to send us your questions at ASK FOLLOWER ANYTHING
I would love to hear what's on your mind.
You can look at the books I referenced in the podcast here:
You are What You Love
Renovation o...2021-08-1640 min
The Follower PodcastReturn: The writing is on the wallThe first episode in a series called Return. In this series, I'll be sharing from the heart about what God has been stirring in me over the past season. This episode in particular focuses on the invitation that is available to us in the turmoil of what 2020 and 2021 have been. In simple terms, it is a call to repentance. May God meet you as you listen.
Future episodes will have a segment of the podcast dedicated to answering your questions. Please send us any questions you may have by following the link at www.mattlewis.co.za2021-08-0937 min