Bonus: “Cooking Class,” Culture Class, or God’s Class? with Dean Kershner

July 31, 2023

“Listen to them! Listen to them! They’re right! I will spend the rest of my life searching for this God!” Dean couldn’t have been more shocked to hear these exclamations coming from a Russian professor of the high school he was visiting that day. The setting: the 1990’s post communist country of Russia. The country was filled with millions of people who had never heard the gospel; this would become Dean’s mission field! Listen as Dean shares his unforgettable experience that would lead him to serving 5 years as a missionary in a land steeped in communism!

It is a blessing to have Dean Kershner as a guest on the podcast. While you may know Dean for his gifted ability to dramatize heroes of faith, such as Vanya or Hudson Taylor, he has also had the opportunity to invest in God’s Kingdom all around the world. Dean’s international work began in Moscow, Russia in 1992 where he served for five years. Dean and his wife currently work with Gospelink, a ministry that supports indigenous preachers financially, educationally, and practically. He has a contagious passion for the gospel and incredible stories from his experiences!

This is Part 2 of our conversation with Dean Kershner. If you enjoyed this, don’t forget to check out Part 1: “What’s a Missionary?”

Dean Kershner, Guest

God has given Dean Kershner a passion for fulfilling the Great Commission. His international work began in Moscow, Russia, in 1992. A ten-week mission trip with the grew into a five-year stint of ministry and service, spreading the Gospel in Russia. In 2002, Dean began working in Africa with Gospelink, a ministry that supports indigenous preachers financially, educationally, and practically. Since then, he has traveled to Africa twenty-eight times for ministry. As a Gospelink Field Director, Dean oversees the development of an agriculture training center and an orphanage named “Harvest Hope Home” in Malawi. Dean lives in Silver Creek, Georgia, with his wife and six children.
Nate Paine, Host

Nate Paine loves pointing people to God’s Word. After giving his life to the Lord at age 11, he has carried Isaiah 61:1–3 as his life verses, following God’s call to “preach good tidings unto the meek,” “bind up the brokenhearted,” “proclaim liberty to the captives,” and offer beauty for ashes through the Person and work of Christ. Nate completed his bachelor’s degree in Biblical Ministries, has served in prison ministry, and mentored many young men through the Journey to the Heart program. Today, he lives with his wife and four children in East Texas where he serves on staff with IBLP and the Home Discipleship Network. In his spare time, you may find Nate reading his favorite authors (Andrew Murray and A.W. Tozer), perfecting his pour-over coffee brewing, or adventuring with his children—preferably with fishing poles in hand.