

Missionary Minds
Paul Schlehlein
From the rural village of Mbhokota in Limpopo, South Africa, hear from the mind of a real-world missionary of almost 20 years. Paul Schlehlein–or "boti Paul / mfundisi" (brother Paul / teacher) as he is addressed in the podcast–hails from Wisconsin, America but has left to cross the world, a culture, and a language group to go and minister to the Tsonga people of northern South Africa. With his knowledge of the scriptures, a passion for church history, and lessons from the field he seeks to speak on issues of the faith, the family, and the fog of worldview confusion that plagues our day.
Episodes
Mentioned books

Mar 26, 2026 • 8min
Trump's Intervention: God's Sovereignty and Africa's Shame (TARIF 249)
Persecution against Christians in Northern Nigeria has reached devastating levels, with tens of thousands killed and churches destroyed. When former U.S. President Donald Trump ordered a military strike against jihadist groups in 2025, it sparked both relief and controversy. How should Christians respond? In this episode, we explore two key perspectives: God’s sovereignty over world leaders—even unbelieving ones—and the sobering failure of African leadership to protect its own people. Drawing from Scripture and history, this discussion challenges believers to think biblically about justice, leadership, and God’s hand in global events.

Mar 19, 2026 • 8min
What About Gay Christians? (TARIF 248)
Since same-sex marriage was legalized in South Africa, pressure has grown on churches to affirm LGBTQ+ identities and relationships. But does the Bible allow for the category of a “gay Christian”? In this episode, we examine key biblical passages often discussed in this debate—including Leviticus, the teachings of Jesus, and the writings of Paul. What do the Scriptures actually say about homosexuality, marriage, and the church’s responsibility in a changing culture? More importantly, is there hope for transformation through the gospel? This discussion seeks to approach the issue with biblical clarity, reminding believers that the church must ultimately take its direction from God’s Word, not cultural pressure.Written by Ntumba Katabua and presented by Yamikani Katunga

Mar 12, 2026 • 7min
Divorce Disqualifies Boshoff & Co. (TARIF 247)
When pastors fall into scandal, the damage goes far beyond one man—it wounds the church and dishonours the gospel. In this episode, we examine the biblical qualifications for church leaders and the responsibility congregations carry in holding them accountable. Recent controversies surrounding prominent African pastors raise urgent questions: What disqualifies a pastor? Should leaders who violate Scripture remain in ministry? And what responsibility do believers have when they continue to support compromised ministries? Scripture is clear that both life and doctrine matter. This discussion calls Christians back to biblical discernment, reminding us that the church must protect the pulpit and uphold truth in both message and characterWritten by Tim Cantrell and presented by Yamikani Katunga

Mar 5, 2026 • 6min
International Alliances and Christian Discernment (TARIF 246)
South Africa is drawing closer to powerful global partners like Russia, China, and Iran. But what should Christians think about these alliances? In this episode, we explore the moral and spiritual questions behind international politics. Scripture reminds believers to pray for rulers and seek the welfare of their nation—but also to exercise discernment about the company nations keep. Are these alliances merely economic strategy, or do they signal deeper moral alignment? We discuss freedom, authoritarianism, the place of Israel, and why Christians must evaluate geopolitics through a biblical lens. Ultimately, our hope is not in East or West—but in Christ, the King who rules over every nation.

Feb 26, 2026 • 8min
Africans Must Learn to Keep Their Word (TARIF 245)
Why are promises so easily broken, deadlines ignored, and laws treated like suggestions? In many African contexts, words—whether spoken, written, or legislated—are often cheapened through flattery, delay, and cultural appeasement. But what happens to a society when truth loses its value? In this episode, we examine how the misuse of language erodes trust, weakens justice, and undermines human flourishing. From “African time” to everyday dishonesty, we explore the deeper spiritual battle behind our words—and why Christians must recover a biblical vision of truth, integrity, and faithful speech in a culture shaped by compromise.#BiblicalWorldview #ChristianLiving #TruthMatters #Integrity #AfricanCulture #ChristianPodcast #SpeakTruth #FaithAndCulture #BiblicalTruth #WordAndTruth

Feb 19, 2026 • 7min
South Africa’s Diabolical Consistency (TARIF 244)
A pregnant woman is killed — and her unborn child dies with her. Yet under South African law, only one murder has taken place. Why? In this episode, we examine the landmark legal case that shaped how the unborn are treated in our justice system, and the implications that follow. Does the law recognise the humanity of the unborn? More importantly, does God? We explore what Scripture teaches about life in the womb and the Christian’s responsibility in a nation where the most vulnerable have no legal voice. This is not just a legal issue — it is a moral one.

Feb 12, 2026 • 7min
Pray for Madagascar: How God is at Work Amidst Suffering (TARIF 243)
Madagascar faces political turmoil, crushing poverty, and devastating cyclones — yet Christ is building His church. In this episode, we trace the remarkable history of the gospel on this island: from early missionary sacrifice and martyrdom, to faithful Bible translation, to a resilient church standing firm against liberalism and pragmatism. Discover how God is raising up indigenous leaders, planting churches, and advancing the Great Commission in remote, unreached villages. Though troubled and often forgotten, Madagascar is a testimony to suffering faith and sovereign grace. Join us in rejoicing at God’s work and learning how to pray intelligently for this beloved nation.

Feb 5, 2026 • 7min
Christianity – Not a white religion (TARIF 242)
Christianity isn’t a white religion — and history proves it. From the Ethiopian eunuch to Africa’s great church fathers, the gospel took root on this continent long before Europe embraced it. This episode dismantles a modern myth and reveals Africa not as a victim of Christianity, but a historic stronghold of God’s grace.

Jan 29, 2026 • 7min
Crippling Debt versus Godly Contentment (TARIF 241)
If you’re watching this, statistically speaking, you’re probably in debt. Look, debt isn’t just an economic problem — it’s a heart problem. Why do so many live enslaved by credit while others live free with less? We explore the lie of “just a little more” and reveal the forgotten secret to freedom: Christian contentment found in Christ alone.All this and more in today’s episode of TARIF. Written by Richard Peskett. Edited and presented by Yamikani Katunga

Jan 22, 2026 • 7min
IShowSpeed in Africa: The Danger of Internet Idols (TARIF 240)
Presidential motorcades for an internet star? IShowSpeed’s African tour is a global phenomenon. But beneath the viral clips and millions of followers, a spiritual crisis is emerging. Discover the four dangers—from promoting laziness to legitimising idolatry—that celebrity worship poses to young people in our homes and churches.All this and more in today’s episode of TARIF.


