Foundations of Faith and Mission
A Roundtable Discussion Series
As followers of Christ, we’re called to share our faith. But first we must ask: what do we believe?
This series, featuring Paul Davis, Scott Dunford, Tim Bertolet, and Alex Kocman of ABWE, seeks to address this fundamental question: What do we believe, and why does what we believe matter for our mission?
Each session in this series delves deep into these foundational beliefs, exploring their implications for the Great Commission. From understanding the nature of God and the identity of Christ to grasping the role of the Holy Spirit and the essence of salvation, this series aims to equip believers with the theological grounding necessary for impactful work for the kingdom.
Session 1: Where Do We Begin?
How do we know what we believe? In this first episode, we discuss what ground the Christian faith. We’ll also explore the importance of creeds and confessions in guiding our beliefs and practice.
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Review
This unit ushers us into the importance of bibliology, emphasizing that sharing the objective truth of the Christian faith is paramount. The importance of reading Scripture in alignment with church history and traditional confessions is highlighted. It serves as a reminder that the objective truth in Scripture is our guide in sharing the faith.
- Scriptures:
- Jude 3
- 2 Timothy 2:2
- Other Sources:
Discussion Questions
- Why is right theology necessary for proper missiology and ecclesiology?
- How do zeal and knowledge relate to one another in the field of missions?
- Why is theological novelty a particular danger in pioneer missions?
- How does Scripture’s teaching on the content of the gospel inform our understanding of evangelism?
- Why is knowledge of God, as revealed in Scripture, a prerequisite to missions?
- Why are creeds and confessions useful for the church and missions?
Supplemental Resources
- Confession and History: Heroes Who Confessed
- Confession and Orthodoxy: Confessions for the Non-Confessional
Further Reading
- The Utility and Importance of Creeds and Confessions – Samuel Miller
- Contending for Our All – John Piper
Meet the Speakers
Paul Davis became the seventh president of ABWE in 2017. Alongside his wife Martha, they have led church plants, Christian schools, and dynamic ministry teams since 1989. Passionate educators, conference speakers, and ministry trip facilitators, the Davises are dedicated to supporting the ABWE global team, encouraging churches in missions, and fostering relationships with ABWE partners. They are blessed with four adult children: Landon, Kierstin, Rachael, and Ian.
Scott Dunford is the pastor of Western Hills Church in California. He served as the Vice President of Mobilization and Communications for ABWE and as a missionary in East Asia. Scott holds degrees from Northland International University, Central Baptist Theological Seminary, Cornerstone University, and is pursuing a D.Min. from Midwestern Baptist Theological Seminary.
Tim Bertolet works with ABWE as director of training and resources. With a background in pastoral ministry and experience as an MK, Tim holds a Ph.D. from the University of Pretoria, an M.A.R. from Westminster Theological Seminary, and a Bachelor’s from Lancaster Bible College. He lives in York, Pa. with his four daughters and enjoys reading, theology, and science fiction.
Alex Kocman is the director of communications and media for ABWE. An editor, podcast co-host, and former director of mobilization, Alex holds an M.A. in Communication and B.S. in Biblical Studies. Previously he served as an online apologetics instructor and student ministry worker. He serves on staff and as an elder at Faith Bible Fellowship Church in York, Pa., where he resides with his wife and three children.