Posts

Ripken Reports: Christian Nationalism

Christian Nationalism is a Contradiction

Nik 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. Whether you’re seeking clarity or a deeper understanding, this episode will challenge and encourage you to think critically about how faith shapes your worldview.

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Ripken Reports: Unexpected Sacrifice

Rethinking How We Relate to Muslims

In 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

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Ripken Reports: Bum

Unpacking the Impact of Short-Term Mission Trips

Almost 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 on the challenges of evaluating a volunteer’s true effectiveness. From the initial excitement of joining a mission to the often-overlooked realities on the ground, this episode offers an honest look at the heart of service. Whether you’re a seasoned traveler or considering your first mission trip, you won’t want to miss Nik’s insights and practical tips on how to ensure that your service truly matters.

Learn more about Nik Ripken ministries at NikRipken.com

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Grief, Hope, & Redemption: A conversation with Tim & Aileen Challies

Finding Light in the Darkness

Nik 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 as a reminder that our deepest wounds can become the source of our most powerful ministry.

Learn more about the work of Tim Challies at Challies.com

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Ripken Reports: Hiding Out In The Open

Understanding Biblical Context: A Key to Transforming Mission Work

Join 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

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Names Lifted Up

Unleashing the Power of Prayer: The First Step in Evangelism

Have 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.

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Ripken Reports: Repercussions of a Cold Coca-Cola

Why is understanding culture so important on the mission field?

Join 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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He’s Articulate for a Painter!

Simple Steps, Profound Impact: How Everyday Obedience Transforms Lives

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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Ripken Reports: When is the Right Time to Take Significant Risks for Jesus?

Risk & Reasons

When 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 Jesus?”

Learn more about Nik Ripken ministries at NikRipken.com

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Ripken 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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