Engaging Missions through the Life of John G. Paton

In this episode, Chad Vegas, founding pastor of Sovereign Grace Church and founding board chairman of Radius International, joins us to discuss the extraordinary life and ministry of John G. Paton, a nineteenth-century missionary to the New Hebrides. Drawing from his experience contributing to a docuseries on global missions, Chad reflects on Paton’s unwavering faith, theological convictions, and perseverance in the face of immense challenges, including tribal conflicts and personal loss.

Together, we explore the spiritual and cultural context of the New Hebrides (present day Vanuatu), the lessons Paton’s life offers for modern missionaries, and the role of local churches in supporting mission work today. We also discuss the importance of heavenly-mindedness, the grace of God made perfect in weakness, and practical ways listeners can get involved in the Great Commission.

Whether you’re passionate about missions or looking for inspiration to deepen your faith, this episode offers rich insights into the transformative power of the gospel and its call to every believer.

• Christ the Center episode 850 — Training and Equipping Missionaries with Chad Vegas and Jonathan Master
• John G. Paton: Missionary to the New Hebrides, An Autobiography
• The Making of Missionary: John Paton (Vanuatu)
• Camden Bucey, To the Ends of the Earth: The Great Commission and God’s Unfolding Plan for the Nations
• Dan Ragusa, Fullness of Joy: A Biblical Theology of God with Us
• Mark R. Brown, ed., Order in the Offices: Essays Defining the Roles of Church Officers (2nd ed.)
• 2024 Christmas Extravanganza

Watch on YouTube and Vimeo.

• 00:00:00 Sponsor: Five More Talents
• 00:01:35 Introduction
• 00:03:58 New Books from Reformed Forum
• 00:07:47 Christmas Extravaganza (12/20/2024)
• 00:10:40 Radius International, Missionary, and Resources on Missions
• 00:18:42 Missions and Theology
• 00:20:32 Escaping a Small-Minded Mindset Regarding Missions
• 00:25:55 Missions and the Family
• 00:33:36 John G. Paton’s Story
• 00:39:38 The Testimony of an “Elephant” Church
• 00:41:22 The Islands and the People Paton Served
• 00:46:19 Heavenly-Mindedness and God’s Grace Made Perfect in Weakness
• 00:52:39 Obstacles to Going into the Field
• 00:57:41 Supporting Missions
• 01:05:38 Next Steps for Getting Involved
• 01:11:15 The Work of the Great Commission Is Everywhere
• 01:18:53 Conclusion

Participants: Camden Bucey, Chad Vegas, Ryan Noha