The Digital Mission Gap| Matthew Niermann Unpacks Lausanne’s Latest Research

The church is more digitally connected than ever before. But are we actually reaching new people with the gospel, or simply communicating with those already in our churches and ministries?

In this episode of the Lausanne Movement Podcast, Jason Watson welcomes back Dr. Matthew Niermann, Lausanne’s Director of Global Research, to explore the findings of the new Global Voices: Digital Missions report, drawing on insights from Christian leaders across 70 countries.

The research reveals a striking gap between conviction and practice. While Christian leaders overwhelmingly recognise the importance of digital mission, many churches and ministries lack the strategies, resources, and training needed to engage intentionally in digital spaces.

Links & Resources

Global Voices: Digital Missions — Read Lausanne’s October 2026 report exploring digital mission, strategy, AI, and Christian witness.
Lausanne Research and Insights — Explore Lausanne’s research initiatives and findings.
Join the Global Voices Panel — Contribute your perspective to future research on global mission.
State of the Great Commission Report — Explore the trends and challenges shaping the future of global mission.

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Guests in This Episode

Matthew Niermann

Director of Global Research

Matthew Niermann has served the Lausanne Movement since 2010 in a variety of roles including research and operations. He is currently serving as the director of the State of the Great Commission Report for Lausanne 4. In addition, he serves as a dean and professor of architectural design at California Baptist University, where his research partially focuses on the relationship between creativity and Christian witness.