In the inaugural episode of Missiology Shelf, Martin Rodriguez sits down with Michael Niebauer, author of Virtuous Persuasion: A Theology of Christian Mission. Together, they discuss the experiences that inspired the book, Niebauer’s unique approach to mission rooted in theological ethics, and how virtue plays a central role in Christian discipleship. The conversation also explores the challenges of modern church planting, the significance of persuasion in mission work, and the importance of focusing on glorifying God in all aspects of ministry.

The Book

Virtuous Persuasion reimagines Christian mission through the lens of theological ethics and virtue. Rather than focusing on techniques or numbers, Niebauer argues that true mission work is about following Christ and developing virtues that lead us closer to God. By grounding mission in virtue, Niebauer challenges modern missiology to rethink the essence of discipleship and the Great Commission, emphasizing that mission is about shaping character as much as spreading the gospel.

Our Guest

Michael Niebauer is an Anglican Pastor and director of Heritage Mission, an initiative that trains leaders to start worship services in care facilities. He is the author of Virtuous Persuasion, a Christianity Today Book Award finalist and Outreach Magazine’s 2022 Missional Resource of the Year.

Credits

Hosted by Martin Rodriguez 

Produced by Martin Rodriguez and Brett Blanchard