Episode 4: Mission Strategy and the Person of Peace | Pastor Larry Schlomer

Guest: Pastor Larry Schlomer, Administrator of World Missions for the Wisconsin Evangelical Lutheran Synod (WELS)

Topics:

• Evolution of mission strategies in recent decades

• Key differences between ministry in the US and mission work abroad

• Importance of multiplication and reproducible ministry models

• Concept of the "person of peace" in mission strategy

• Unexpected opportunities and adapting plans in mission work

Key Takeaways:

• Missiological Shift: WELS mission strategy has undergone significant changes, moving from a model that mirrored US ministry practices to one that prioritizes indigenous leadership and multiplication.

• Empowering Local Leadership: Successful mission work focuses on empowering local leaders to take ownership of ministry, recognizing their cultural insights and understanding.

• Multiplication Mindset: A multiplication focus is essential for planting not just a church, but a church body that can reproduce and spread the Gospel organically.

• Person of Peace: The "person of peace" concept highlights the importance of identifying and partnering with individuals who are ready to participate in gospel ministry.

• Flexibility and Adaptation: Missionaries must be prepared for unexpected opportunities and challenges, remaining flexible and adaptable to God's leading.

• New missionary approach: Embrace the challenge of cross-cultural ministry, prioritize empowering local leaders, and remain adaptable to God's guidance.

Closing Thought:

"This is God's ministry, not yours." - Pastor Larry Schlomer

Links and Resources:

• Pastor John Schroeder's essay on the doctrine of vocation

• David Garrison's "Seven Deadly Sins of Church Planting Movements"

• Passing the Baton: Church Planting That Empowers by Tom A. Steffen

• “Persons of Peace” article on Missional Challenge

• The Meros Center

Common Terms and Links on Jesus and Jetlag

• WELS = Wisconsin Evangelical Lutheran Synod (wels.net)

• WLS = Wisconsin Lutheran Seminary in Mequon Wisconsin (wisluthsem.org)

• Collection of Confessional Lutheran Essays

• BWM = WELS Board for World Missions

• CELC = Confessional Evangelical Lutheran Conference

• CICR = Commission on Inter-Church Relations of the Wisconsin Evangelical Lutheran Synod

• Vicar = a pastoral intern in the Wisconsin Evangelical Lutheran system

All commentary, statements, and discussion on this podcast reflect the knowledge, insight, and experience solely of the individuals presenting and featured on the podcast.