MinistryWatch Podcast

MinistryWatch Podcast


Ep. 338: Matt Bronleewe on the Founding of Compassion International

March 13, 2024

In the early 1950s, war had left tens of thousands of orphans in South Korea. Everett Swanson arrived there to preach the Gospel to the troops there, but he was overcome by the starving children, and he faced the question, “What are you going to do?”


That question compelled Everett Swanson to start an organization that became Compassion International, now one of the largest orphan care organizations on the planet. Compassion now cares for more than 2 million children around the world.


That question – “What Are You Going To Do?” – is also the name of a new book about Everett Swanson’s life. That book is by Eric Wilson and my guest today, Matt Bronleewe.


Some of you may know Matt Bronleewe’s name because he was a founder of the well-known Christian rock group Jars of Clay. After leaving the group, Matt has gone on to have a successful career as a songwriter and producer, and he is now producing his first feature film.


I had this conversation with Matt Bronleewe at the recent meeting of the National Religious Broadcasters in Nashville. We began by talking about WHY he wanted to write this book.


His new book is “What Are You Going To Do? The Inspiring Story of Everett Swanson and the founding of Compassion International.” I had this conversation with him at the annual meeting of the National Religious Broadcasters in Nashville.


The producers for today’s program are Jeff McIntosh and Rich Roszel. We had technical, database, and editorial support from Casey Sudduth, Kim Roberts, and Christina Darnell.


Until next time, may God bless you.