In this episode of Christ the Center, Camden Bucey speaks with Brian DeVries, a theologian and pastor in South Africa, about his new book, You Will Be My Witnesses, which explores the biblical and theological foundations of Christian witness, emphasizing the church’s role in participating in God’s redemptive mission. They discuss the Christian and Reformed landscape in South Africa, the importance of witness in missions, and the connection between worship and witness. DeVries emphasizes the need for a solid theology of mission and the role of every believer as a witness to Christ.
In this conversation, we explore the multifaceted nature of Christian witness, emphasizing its historical significance, the interplay of suffering and evangelism, and the importance of both word and deed in the church’s mission. They discuss the need for boldness in witness, the role of the Holy Spirit, and the impact of personal experiences on understanding witness. Additionally, they highlight the work of Mukhanyo Theological College in training leaders for ministry in Southern Africa.
Dr. Brian A. DeVries is a theologian, educator, and pastor with extensive experience in theological education and church planting. He earned his PhD from the Southern Baptist Theological Seminary and currently serves as the president of Mukhanyo Theological College in South Africa. In addition to his administrative role, Dr. DeVries is an adjunct professor of missiology at Puritan Reformed Theological Seminary. Dr. DeVries has led three multiethnic church-planting teams in South Africa and currently serves as the pastor of Grace Reformed Church in Pretoria. He and his wife, Lanae, are blessed with five children.
Chapters
- 00:07 Introduction
- 02:18 The Christian and Reformed Landscape in South Africa
- 05:41 Exploring the Book: You Will Be My Witnesses
- 10:10 The Theology of Witness in Missions
- 17:13 Witness Is Part of Christian Identity
- 26:54 Witness in the Old Testament
- 30:40 The Connection Between Worship and Witness
- 32:26 Historical Patterns of Witness and Suffering
- 37:58 Regaining Boldness in Witness
- 41:16 Word and Deed in Witness
- 44:38 Personal Experiences Shaping Understanding of Witness
- 48:54 Demystifying Evangelism and Apologetics
- 51:05 Mukhanyo Theological College
- 54:56 Conclusion
Participants: Brian DeVries, Camden Bucey