Matt & Josiah welcome special guest, Missionary Bob Mach (Ivory Coast, West Africa) to discuss 29 years of foreign missionary work. Bob offers advice for those considering missions work. He emphasizes the importance of being called by God and supported by a local church. The need for practical preparation, such as visiting the mission field, learning the language, and understanding the healthcare system is crucial to long term mission work. Bob shares a powerful story of starting a church in a village and highlights the providence of God in missions work. They also touch on the qualities pastors should look for in potential missionaries, including a strong support system, good health, and maturity. In this conversation, Bob Mach shares his insights on evaluating missionary candidates, the importance of a strong foundation in the local church, and the need for clear communication and support from churches. He also discusses his own experiences on the mission field, including moments of crisis and the importance of family and practicality in staying on the field. Bob emphasizes the need for pastors to invest in and train the next generation of missionaries, and shares his vision for the future of the ministry in Ivory Coast.

Takeaways

• Being called by God and supported by a local church are crucial for missionaries.
• Practical preparation, such as visiting the mission field and learning the language, is important for success.
• Understanding the healthcare system in the mission field is essential for missionaries and their families.
• Starting a church in a new culture requires maturity and a strong support system.
• Pastors should look for qualities such as a strong support system, good health, and maturity in potential missionaries. Evaluate missionary candidates based on their maturity, local church foundation, and health situation.
• A strong foundation in the local church is crucial for missionaries to stay on the field.
• Clear and consistent communication, such as short emails, is important for missionaries.
• Churches can support missionaries by being deliberate and encouraging during the pre-field stage, and by providing practical help and resources.
• The call to missions is not always mystical or supernatural, but can be a result of a burden and a desire to see the gospel proclaimed around the world.
• Motorhomes can be a practical tool for missionaries during deputation or furlough.
• Investing in family time and involving the family in church activities is important for missionaries.
• Pastors have a responsibility to train and support the next generation of missionaries.
• The success of missionary work often depends on the collaboration between well-trained national pastors and missionaries.
• Missions is an exhilarating adventure that requires a willingness to be used by God and a commitment to training and submission.