Breakout Session 1:
BAM 101: Business and Mission
Can business be Missional? Can business disciple the nations? In this breakout we will see the power of redemptive business and how it changes the world. We’ll hear from local businessmen as they share their experience in the business of the great commission.
Justice
Our God is a god who seeks justice. We see that in scripture, we know it is true of His character. As followers of Jesus it is imperative that we are involved in taking light to the darkest places of injustice. We will address the hard realities of human trafficking, systemic injustices, violations of human rights; globally and domestically. But chiefly, we will be looking at how we can practically live out Biblical justice like it says in Isaiah 1:17; “learn to do what is right; seek justice. Take up the cause of the fatherless; plead the case of the widow.”
Caring for Workers
Missionary care is more than just teaching self care. Knowing how to show care and affection for people living radically different lives from you is hard, and often messy. We have gathered women who have decades of experience in either receiving missionary care or giving it (or both!), and they will teach on how you can be better equipped for caring for missionaries.
History of Missions
If you don’t know the history of missions, you are likely to make the same mistakes as those who have gone before. There is so much to be learned and gleaned from these heroes of the faith, and we can be inspired by their stories.
Hinduism in NWA
Because of our globalized community, there are now thousands of practicing Hindus that have made Northwest Arkansas their home. Hinduism is a complex religion and worldview, one that can be intimidating to interact with. This breakout will be led people that have worked overseas and locally with Hindus to teach on the practices of Hinduism, as well as how we can engage with them as our neighbors here in NWA.
Breakout Session 2:
BAM 102: Redemptive Business
Hear from a panel of business leaders who see the great value of business people with a vision for mission. Hear successes (and failures) of starting businesses in hard to reach places, and why an untapped sending force can flow through the workplace.
Father Heart of God & Missions
Chiefly our identity on this earth is daughters and sons of the Most High. We cannot let our identity be defined by “missionary” or “stateside christian”, and we certainly cannot let how we understand Gods love for us be dependent on what we do. We will unpack understanding God as our Father, specifically our understanding of a Father who is inviting us into the family business of making disciples of all nations.
Intercultural Communications
Our own cultural blinders can oftentimes get in the way when living overseas. Daniel Rupp lived in China for 20 years and has firsthand experienced the breakdown between foreign missionaries and nationals if clear intercultural communication is not understood and pursued. Learn from him and his PhD.
Islam
There are approximately 1.8 billion Muslims in the world, which is 24% of the worlds population - but most peoples understanding of the Islamic faith is misled. In this breakout, you can expect to learn about the religion of Islam, and also how to engage Muslim people with the kindness of Jesus.
Start Now
Life on the field will only change your point on a map. The life you live now will be the life you take with you. This breakout will discuss the ways you can orient your life now to befriend internationals, learn language, abide in Jesus’ love, develop an intimate prayer life, and how these practices will set you up and sustain you overseas.
Breakout Session 3:
Women in Missions
Women are 70% of the mission field, yet we rarely hear their stories. In this breakout we will hear stories of pioneer missions women as well as testimonies from women in different life stages that are currently involved with missions.
China: What's Next?
Understanding China and all of its facets is complicated. Learn about the Christian response to US and Chinese foreign relations, China post COVID-19, nonreligious and Buddhist worldview, and other FAQ (including: didn’t all of the missionaries get kicked out?)
The Refugee Crises: What do we know & what should we do?
There are over 70 million refugees world wide. This is a global crises, only made worse by a global pandemic. Most refugees have been violently forced from their homes, with more than 60 million of the global refugees coming from war torn countries. The Bible says to welcome the foreigner, and to care for the fatherless, but what does that look like? This will be a geopolitical and spiritual look at the crises that is changing what missions to the unreached in certain areas of the world looks like.
Money & Mi$$ion$
Managing and stewarding your finances is not just for those who plan to go overseas. As a sender or a goer, learning how to leverage your finances for the furthering of the gospel going to all nations is so important. We will cover how to budget, pay off debt, raise support, and give you practical advice on how to honor the Lord with your finances.
Salt & Light Training
Talking about our faith with our friends, family and coworkers can be really intimidating. But it doesn’t have to be! When Jesus is our treasure, words of love and affection about Him spill out of us. This will be a workshop on why we should engage with others about our faith, and how we can practically do that.
Pastors / Ministers Roundtable
A time for ministry workers only! If you are a pastor, ministry staff person, or on the missions committee at your church, please come to this round table breakout where we will connect, encourage, and challenge each other. There is one Body. Let's work together!
