The Disciple Maker's Podcast

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The Disciple Makers Podcast exists to tell stories about disciples of Jesus who make disciples. Discipleship.org, who sponsors the podcast, exists to Champion Jesus' way of disciple making. Episodes are published in thematic seasons. To learn more, visit www.discipleship.org or email us at info@discipleship.org.

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    • Dec 31, 2025 LATEST EPISODE
    • weekdays NEW EPISODES
    • 55m AVG DURATION
    • 719 EPISODES


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    Latest episodes from The Disciple Maker's Podcast

    Track Session 1: How We Make Disciples at Elevate City

    Play Episode Listen Later Dec 31, 2025 47:58


    Joey will explain the strategy of one of the nations top Disciple Making Churches. Check out Discipleship.org for resources on disciple-making: https://discipleship.org/resources/  Join us at the 2026 National Disciple Making Forum: https://discipleship.org/2026-national-disciple-making-forum/ 

    10 Most Common Mistakes when Shifting to Multiplication

    Play Episode Listen Later Dec 29, 2025 36:42


    Check out Discipleship.org for resources on disciple-making: https://discipleship.org/resources/  Join us at the 2026 National Disciple Making Forum: https://discipleship.org/2026-national-disciple-making-forum/  Avoiding the Top 10 Mistakes in Disciple Making Movements In this episode of the Disciple Makers Podcast, host Josh Howard discusses the essential shifts needed to transition from addition to multiplication in disciple making. He focuses on the top 10 common mistakes that leaders and churches make when pursuing disciple-making movements, such as prioritizing models over missions, innovating before imitating, and treating disciple-making as a side hustle. Josh provides practical principles and corrective actions to help leaders avoid these pitfalls, emphasizing the importance of faithfulness, adaptability, and deep leadership development. Ideal for church leaders and anyone passionate about multiplying disciples effectively. 00:00 Introduction and Recap 01:10 Top 10 Mistakes in Disciple Making Movements 03:02 Mistake 1: Falling in Love with the Model 07:51 Mistake 2: Innovating Before Imitating 11:59 Mistake 3: Doing the Work for People 14:36 Mistake 4: Spreading Too Thin 17:45 Mistake 5: Ignoring Structures 21:26 Mistake 6: Treating Movement as a Side Hustle 23:13 Mistake 7: Expecting Microwave Speed 25:55 Mistake 8: Fearing Mistakes 28:54 Mistake 9: Confusing Language with Culture 31:11 Mistake 10: Quitting Too Soon 33:39 Conclusion and Encouragement

    Submitting to God in Discipling Relationships | Shodankeh Johnson

    Play Episode Listen Later Dec 24, 2025 59:12


    Check out the 12 Days of Disciple Making: https://days-of-disciple-making.lovable.app/ Submitting to God: Discipleship, Fasting, and Prayer | Shodankeh Johnson In this video, Shodankeh Johnson, from Sierra Leone, shares how God uses ordinary people to achieve extraordinary outcomes. Emphasizing that the key difference between the ordinary and extraordinary is God's divine touch, Johnson discusses the critical importance of discipleship, fasting, and prayer. He underscores Jesus' ultimate act of submission in the Garden of Gethsemane and how followers are called to be like Jesus in saying, 'Thy will be done.' Johnson cautions against 'pick and mix religion,' urging believers to fully align with God's word to see divine power manifest in their lives. Check out Discipleship.org for resources on disciple-making: https://discipleship.org/resources/  Key Takeaways  00:00 Introduction and Greetings 07:48 Prayer and Fasting Practices 12:28 Testimonies of Transformation 19:56 The Power of Persistent Prayer 28:12 Praying for the Nation 32:37 Introducing Dave and Mandisa 37:59 The Importance of Fasting and Prayer 49:27 Dave's Journey to a Praying Church 56:36 Encouragement for Church Leaders Stay Informed - Get our newsletter: http://eepurl.com/hPViAr Other Videos about Shodankeh Johnson: Why Radical Obedience Is Necessary for Discipleship https://youtu.be/VGq_EfdCCSY?feature=shared A Powerful Prayer For The Movement of God in America https://youtu.be/EdZIlDnRrT8?feature=shared  What the North American Church Largely Missed on the Holy Spirit!https://youtu.be/a8FdA69TwUY?feature=shared  A Disciple Making Movement In West Africa: https://youtu.be/xx3Kr79-kos?feature=shared  Discipleship Principles for North American Churches https://youtu.be/wOaMm2OB0YU?feature=shared  How to Raise Up Movement Leaders in Christianity : https://youtu.be/aJssQ6JdQD8?feature=shared  Discovery Bible Study: https://youtu.be/TC12QGzQvZk?feature=shared  Summary: In this powerful video, spiritual leaders gather to discuss the significance of prayer, fasting, and disciple-making in contemporary Christianity. The video opens with Shodankeh Johnson, a renowned Christian leader from Sierra Leone, Africa, sharing extraordinary testimonies about the transformative power of prayer and fasting. Shodankeh emphasizes that these spiritual disciplines can turn ordinary people into extraordinary individuals who can accomplish God's work. Shodankeh illustrates his points by sharing compelling stories from his own life and ministry. He explains how submission to God through prayer and fasting can open doors for disciple-making and transforming communities. His stories include instances where prayer and fasting led to miraculous conversions, including a confrontation with a militant leader who eventually became a Christian and now serves as part of Shodankeh's ministry. Shodankeh argues that disciple-making involves three levels of submission to God: the disciple-maker, the lost, and the spirits. He highlights how prayer and fasting are active ingredients that empower these stages. Through fasting and prayer, ordinary men and women have become powerful instruments for God's work in Sierra Leone, leading to entire villages and tribes coming to know Jesus. As Shodankeh's session concludes, Dave Clayton and Mandisa join the conversation. Dave Clayton, a pastor from the Nashville area, shares his journey of integrating prayer and fasting into his church's practice. He narrates their struggles and triumphs, emphasizing how persistent prayer and fasting have begun to catalyze a spiritual shift within their community. Dave explains his vision to mobilize churches across Nashville to pray and fast over every name, neighborhood, and nation represented in the city. His goal is to spark a broader movement of prayer and fasting throughout America. Mandisa, known for her work in the Discipleship First Tribe and her music career, talks about her realization of the need for desperation in prayer. She compares her experiences in American churches with those she observed during international tours, noting a stark contrast in the desperate fervor for prayer and fasting. She is moved to challenge herself and others to cultivate a similar level of spiritual desperation. Throughout the video, the speakers discuss cultural differences and the challenges faced by the American church in adopting these spiritual disciplines. Shodankeh explains that fasting and prayer are disruptive, yet necessary for true disciple-making. The leaders highlight the importance of humility, learning from the global church, and bringing a disruptive disciple-making mindset to North America. In conclusion, this video is a stirring reminder of the power of prayer and fasting in disciple-making. It challenges viewers to reconsider their spiritual practices and embrace a deeper, more committed walk with God for the sake of personal transformation and broader community impact. Check out our Blogs: https://discipleship.org/blog/  #DiscipleMaking

    45 Degrees Part 2

    Play Episode Listen Later Dec 22, 2025 24:33


    Check out Discipleship.org for resources on disciple-making: https://discipleship.org/resources/  Join us at the 2026 National Disciple Making Forum: https://discipleship.org/2026-national-disciple-making-forum/  45 Degree Shifts: From Addition to Multiplication in Church Growth - Part 2 In this episode of the Disciple Makers Podcast, host Josh Howard delves into four additional key shifts that churches need to make to move from addition to multiplication. Josh explores the transition from creating consumers to forming missionaries, empowering the priesthood of all believers, focusing on controllables over uncontrollables in metrics, and shifting from a church growth mindset to kingdom expansion. Using principles, stories, and practical examples, this episode is a must-listen for those looking to make a lasting impact for the Kingdom. Tune in to learn how small 45 degree shifts can lead to exponential growth and transformation. 00:00 Introduction and Recap 01:49 Shift 5: From Consumers to Missionaries 06:56 Shift 6: From Professionals to the Priesthood of All Believers 12:27 Shift 7: From Tracking Uncontrollables to Controllables 19:09 Shift 8: From Church Growth to Kingdom Expansion 22:29 Conclusion and Call to Action

    Why Become a Disciple Maker | Jim Putman

    Play Episode Listen Later Dec 17, 2025 60:15


    Why Become a Disciple Maker: Insights from Jim Putman, Dr. Coleman, and More In this video, leaders in the disciple making movement participate in a forum to discuss the essential question: why become a disciple maker? Jim Putman opens with a deep dive into the motives behind disciple making and challenges the conventional view of tying disciple-making to church growth. Instead, he emphasizes the importance of a more profound, relational approach where the focus is on spiritual maturity and following Christ wholeheartedly, even when it might not lead to church growth. The discussion extends into practical insights on creating a culture of disciple-making, highlighting the significance of transparency and intentionality in relationships. Prominent voices like Bill Hull, Dr. Robert Coleman, and Daniel Im contribute their perspectives. Bill Hull underscores the necessity of investing in the right people, while Dr. Coleman points out the simplicity of following Jesus' example. Ariana Rimsson shares her personal experiences and advice on how to take intentional steps to disciple others, even if one has never been discipled themselves. The forum also includes a celebration of disciple-making giants, with Bill Hull receiving the Robert Coleman Disciple Maker Award for his lifetime commitment to Jesus' methods. Key themes covered include the importance of relational disciple-making, the challenges of being authentic and transparent, and the critical role of disciple-makers in a world increasingly obsessed with self. This video aims to inspire pastors and ministry leaders to embrace the call to make disciples deeply and authentically, replicating the life-on-life model exemplified by Jesus.  Check out Discipleship.org for resources on disciple-making: https://discipleship.org/resources/  Key Takeaways  00:00 Introduction: The Importance of Disciple Making 07:40 The Great Commission and Making Disciples 09:45 Personal Stories and Testimonies 14:55 The Need for Relational Discipleship 21:44 Practical Takeaways and Reflections 36:43 The Heart of Jesus' Ministry 37:25 Motives in Discipleship 39:54 Creating a Culture of Disciple Making 43:52 Life-on-Life Discipleship 48:56 Honesty and Transparency in Discipleship 53:23 The Disciple Maker Assessment 01:11:07 Closing Remarks and Reflections Stay Informed - Get our newsletter: http://eepurl.com/hPViAr Title: Why Become a Disciple Maker | Jim Putman See below for a longer description: In Jim Putman's enlightening speech, he delves deep into the essential question, "Why become a disciple maker?" He challenges the audience by reframing the question to "Why wouldn't you be a disciple maker?" Putman emphasizes that disciple making should not be viewed as merely a church growth strategy but as a profound spiritual calling rooted in the gospel of Jesus Christ. He addresses the popular misconception that disciple making guarantees church growth, clarifying that the true essence is spiritual maturity and obedience to Christ, which may not always align with numerical growth. Putman underscores the reality that the gospel's message of self-denial and daily cross-bearing is often unpopular in American culture, leading to a potential decline in church attendance when it's preached authentically. He cautions that many churchgoers might leave when confronted with the true demands of discipleship, particularly those who attend church for superficial reasons like seeking personal gain or social approval. A significant portion of his talk focuses on the characteristics of a mature disciple. Putman describes a mature disciple as someone continually growing in obedience and being transformed to resemble Jesus Christ. This transformation involves loving God with all one's heart, soul, mind, and strength, and loving one's neighbor as oneself. He critiques the shallow understanding of discipleship that equates it to mere knowledge accumulation, explaining that true discipleship is relational and rooted in love. Moreover, Putman discusses the importance of having a common language and definition within disciple making movements, referencing Jesus' invitation in Matthew 4:19 to "Come, follow me, and I will make you fishers of men." He explains that disciple makers are those who follow Jesus, are changed by Jesus, and commit to Jesus' mission. This mission includes evangelizing, teaching, and nurturing new disciples to maturity so they, in turn, can make disciples. Putman shares a personal anecdote about his son, illustrating the profound impact someone can make by reaching out to love and disciple others. In conclusion, Putman appeals to the audience's sense of love and obedience to God as the primary motives for making disciples. He discards the notion of doing it for rewards or recognition, centering the practice in genuine care for others' spiritual well-being and growth in Christ. Check out our Blogs: https://discipleship.org/blog/

    The Jesus Centered Church

    Play Episode Listen Later Dec 15, 2025 25:38


    Reclaiming the Church for Jesus: Redefining Worship, Mission, and Metrics Join Josh Howard in this thought-provoking episode of the Disciple Makers Podcast as he challenges the modern church to reconsider who Sunday services are truly for. Dive into a passionate discussion on reshaping church practices to put Jesus at the center, focusing on worship, preaching, mission, and metrics. Discover how a Jesus-centered church can transform disciple-making, community, and spiritual growth. If you're ready to give Jesus His church back, this conversation is a must-listen. 00:00 Introduction and Burning Question 01:10 People-Centered vs. Jesus-Centered Church 04:31 Jesus-Centered Worship 06:31 Scripture as Heaven's Word 08:46 The Importance of the Altar 11:56 Time Belongs to Jesus 13:58 Sending People into Mission 16:06 Changing Metrics of Success 18:37 Jesus Gets the Room Back 21:04 Conclusion and Call to Action

    Women and Disciple Making | Joanne Kraft

    Play Episode Listen Later Dec 10, 2025 50:13


    Intentional Living: Joanne Kraft on Effective Women's Discipleship What could it look like to see women in the church catch a vision for spiritual growth through discipleing relationships? Inspired by the mandate in Titus 2, Joanne Kraft, lead disciple-maker for Grace and Truth Living, speaks and writes to women across the nation on disciple making. Join Joanne and Discipleship.org's Bobby Harrington for a conversation on the necessity of Jesus' style of disciple making for women and the keys on developing this vision for women in your church. Check out Discipleship.org for resources on disciple-making: https://discipleship.org/resources/  If you would like to view Focus on the Family visit this link: https://www.focusonthefamily.com/  Key Takeaways  00:00 Introduction and Personal Background 00:08 Journey into Discipleship 03:22 The Importance of Relational Discipleship 06:06 Starting Discipling Relationships 09:39 Challenges and Practical Tips 11:56 Women Discipling Women 18:00 Upcoming National Disciple Making Forum 20:57 Formalizing Discipling Relationships 24:38 Sharing Spiritual Biographies 26:03 Melissa Gray's Testimony 28:49 Defining the Duration of Discipleship 31:25 Serving Together and Leadership Transition 39:42 Turbo Group Training and Multiplying Disciple Makers 44:46 Building Relationships with Non-Believers 47:22 Grace and Truth Living Ministry 49:27 Conclusion and Final Thoughts Take the FREE Disciple Maker Assessment: https://church-multiplication.com/disciplemaker/ Listen - Disciple Maker's Podcast:  https://discipleship.org/resources/podcast/ Stay Informed - Get our newsletter: http://eepurl.com/hPViAr See below for a longer description:  In the video titled "Women and Disciple Making" Joanne Kraft, a mother of four and a writer, dives into her experiences and passion for discipleship, especially within the context of women's ministry. She starts by sharing a bit about her background, illustrating her journey as a writer of non-fiction, particularly parenting books, and how this gradually led her to realize her deep-seated passion for discipleship. She emphasizes that while broad speaking events and women's conferences are valuable, she believes in the power of smaller, more meaningful discipleship relationships to make a more substantial impact. If you want to know more about Disciple Making visit: https://discipleship.org/  The conversation then transitions into a discussion about Joanne's books, which includes titles like "Too Busy: Taking Your Family on a Radical Sabbatical" and "The Mean Mom's Guide to Raising Great Kids." Joanne explains how experiences from her career as a 911 dispatcher shaped her writing and mentoring, addressing common parenting challenges that resonated with many. She also highlights how her books have been utilized as discipleship tools across the country, demonstrating their relevance and effectiveness in real-world church settings. Joanne underscores the importance of relational experiences in spiritual growth, recounting how her relationships with others have profoundly influenced her faith journey. She notes the significance of intentional, personal interactions over merely consuming content from books or sermons. Joanne stresses the necessity of being discipled, particularly how personal relationships can foster deeper understanding and spiritual maturity. Through these reflections, she reveals her realization that even long-time Christians can still need personal mentorship to grow their faith. Discussing the structure of discipleship relationships, Joanne shares practical insights on how to initiate and maintain such connections. She advises starting with prayer to discern whom God is leading to be discipled and emphasizes the importance of seeking someone whose words have a strong influence on you. Joanne highlights the role of questions and active listening in building these relationships. She addresses common challenges, like dealing with resistance, and advocates for setting clear expectations through a signed covenant to ensure commitment and accountability from both parties involved. Joanne's approach also includes tailor-made strategies for discipling women, recognizing the unique needs and dynamics different from men. She explains how she organizes smaller and more intimate groups, drawing from Jesus' example with his disciples. Joanne typically limits her discipleship groups to no more than three women, ensuring each member receives adequate attention and support. She highlights the need for grace, patience, and mutual understanding in these relationships. Interested in books and blogs on Disciple Making visit: https://discipleship.org/resources/ For more conversation on Disciple Making check out our Podcast: The Disciple Makers Podcast -- https://disciplemakerspodcast.podbean.com/

    Biggest Challenges Facing Disciple Makers | Thom Rainer

    Play Episode Listen Later Dec 8, 2025 63:38


    Reaching and Discipling Millennials: Challenges and Opportunities In this insightful discussion, various speakers explore the vital topic of how to effectively reach and disciple the millennial generation. The session begins with an introduction by Thom Rainer who shares personal anecdotes and sets the stage for the main focus: can we truly disciple millennials, and can they become disciple-makers themselves? The speaker highlights the complexity and clarity sometimes lacking within church communities, using both humor and personal stories to illustrate these points. Statistical data is presented to underscore the significant decline in generational Christian adherence, from the builder generation to the millennials, who only show roughly 15% followers of Christ. However, despite this decline, there is a notable receptivity among millennials, presenting a hopeful opportunity for the church. Key characteristics of millennials, such as their value for relationships and desire for authenticity, humility, transparency, and integrity, are discussed. Practical advice and strategies are given on how to engage millennials effectively, including the importance of personal relationships, leveraging older generations for mentorship, and ensuring corporate authenticity within the church community. The session also delves into specific, real-world examples and testimonies that illustrate how these principles can be applied successfully. Overall, this comprehensive dialogue provides valuable insights and actionable steps for anyone looking to engage with and disciple millennials in a meaningful way. Check out Discipleship.org for resources on disciple-making: https://discipleship.org/resources/  Key Takeaways  00:00 Introduction and Personal Anecdotes 09:24 Millennials' Receptivity to the Gospel 14:46 Building Relationships with Millennials 19:02 Practical Steps for Churches 29:47 Capitol Hill Prayer Group 38:37 Authenticity in Discipleship 48:39 Challenges in Modern Church Practices 54:59 Practical Steps for Discipleship Stay Informed - Get our newsletter: http://eepurl.com/hPViAr See below for a longer description:  Rainer's primary thesis revolves around questioning whether millennials can be effectively discipled and turned into disciple-makers. He stresses the importance of understanding this generation's unique characteristics. According to Rainer, millennials are highly relational but often perceive church environments as unclear or hypocritical. He advocates for churches to pursue authenticity and integrity in their ministries. Using statistical data, Rainer highlights the low percentage of millennials who identify as Christians compared to previous generations. He emphasizes that despite this, there is significant openness and receptivity among millennials toward the gospel, possibly more than seen in prior generations. The key is for churches to make intentional efforts in relationship-buildingand personal discipleship. Various speakers at the forum further discuss strategies to effectively disciple millennials. Heather Zempel shares examples of relational discipleship occurring in Washington, D.C., pointing out that millennials are actively engaged in mission trips and small groups that prioritize hands-on, real-life applications of faith. Ariana Rimson highlights the need for millennials to align their relationships with God's word, focusing on authenticity and integrity. Jim Putman stresses the importance of relational discipleship over mere church participation, reinforcing that millennials seek genuine connections and discipleship that integrate with their everyday lives. Rainer and other speakers argue that churches must move beyond traditional and superficial churchianity to embrace genuine Christianity characterized by personal relationships and community impact. The panel collectively underscores the importance of meeting millennials where they are, both physically and culturally. They advocate for a church environment that prioritizes community engagement, social impact, and authentic relationships. The ultimate goal is to foster a generation of disciple-makers who are deeply rooted in their faith and committed to living out the teachings of Jesus in practical, transformative ways. In summary, this video provides a thorough exploration of the challenges and opportunities in discipling millennials. It offers valuable insights and practical strategies for church leaders aiming to bridge generational gaps and cultivate meaningful, faith-driven relationships within their congregations. It stresses the need for churches to adapt, be authentic, and focus on relational and community-oriented ministry to effectively reach and disciple the millennial generation. Check out our Blogs: https://discipleship.org/blog/ 

    Why Women Should Become Disciple Makers | Trillia Newbell

    Play Episode Listen Later Dec 3, 2025 62:01


    Empowering Women in Discipleship: A Call to Action This video emphasizes the vital role of women in discipleship, exploring biblical examples and the importance of support from church communities. The discussion covers practical ways women, both single and married, can engage in disciple-making despite busy lives. Real-life examples and personal stories highlight the essential nature of women's involvement in ministry, offering encouragement and strategies for pastors and church leaders to foster inclusive discipleship environments. Check out Discipleship.org for resources on disciple-making: https://discipleship.org/resources/  Key Takeaways  00:00 Introduction: The Importance of Gender Equality 04:56 Four Key Points on Discipleship 14:11 Challenges in Women's Discipleship 18:07 Men's Role in Supporting Women's Discipleship 26:46 Panel Discussion: Insights on Discipleship 41:56 Empowering Single Moms 52:14 Balancing Discipleship and Busy Lives 01:01:21 Encouragement for the Weary Stay Informed - Get our newsletter: http://eepurl.com/hPViAr See below for a longer description:  In this insightful videoo titled "Why Women Should Become Disciple Makers | Trillia Newbell," various speakers converge to elaborate on the importance of women taking active roles in discipleship within the church. The discussion is introduced by Trillia Newbell, who emphasizes gender equality in the mission of disciple-making. The initial conversation covers logistical challenges and underscores the need for family support and good will from one's community. The dialogue transitions, to a penal where Bobby presents an earnest reflection on why women should be heavily involved in disciple-making. For a moment, listeners are asked to visualize a church devoid of women's contributions. This exercise serves to underline the essential roles women have historically played in biblical narratives—from Ruth to Mary, and further extending to modern-day church settings. Trillia Newbell also emphasizes the theological basis for women in discipleship, citing scriptures like Psalm 8 and the Great Commission. She introduces four key points to support her argument that all people, including women, are created to serve. The session continues as she elaborates on how societal constraints and gender wars often hinder women from fulfilling this divine calling. Yet, she reassures that God's design includes women actively participating in disciple-making. Further adding depth to the discussion, other speakers contribute their own experiences and observations. Arriana Rimson, shares her journey emphasizing the importance of having spiritual leaders and mentors who encourage and affirm women's roles in the church. She talks about the significance of creating space for women to use their gifts, drawing on examples from her own life including support from her local church and male colleagues. Other panel speakers recount their challenges and growth as a single mother and highlights the untapped potential within single moms for evangelism and discipleship. Both stress the importance of addressing the practical needs of single mothers as a form of holistic disciple-making. The episode's focus shifts to practical advice, as the speakers provide actionable insights on integrating discipleship into daily routines. For mothers juggling numerous responsibilities, the speakers propose inviting others into their existing activities to foster natural and organic discipling relationships. By sharing personal stories and pragmatic suggestions, they demonstrate that disciple-making can be woven into the fabric of everyday life rather than being perceived as an added burden. Towards the end of the episode, the conversation becomes deeply personal. The speakers open up about the weariness that many—especially women—feel as they strive to fulfill their callings amidst life's demands. They offer encouragement and remind listeners of the grace and help that God provides. They also underscore the importance of communal and familial support in realizing these discipleship missions. In conclusion, the speakers reiterate that every woman, whether single, married, a mother, or a professional, has an intrinsic calling and a special place in the mission of disciple-making. They advocate for church leaders, especially male pastors, to recognize, encourage, and equip women in their congregations, creating a more inclusive and supportive environment for spiritual growth. This episode is a profound call to action, serving as both an inspirational message and a practical guide for women to embrace their roles as disciple-makers. It reassures listeners that by leaning on God's grace, they can overcome societal barriers and fulfill their divine mission within the church. Check out our Blogs: https://discipleship.org/blog/ 

    Small Circles, Big Impact | Steve McCoy

    Play Episode Listen Later Dec 1, 2025 57:26


    Intentional Discipleship – Small Circles, Big Impact | Steve McCoy To view Small Circles Resources visit: https://www.smallcircle.com/  The recipe for a culture of discipleship requires some indispensable ingredients and among the essentials are two primary components: intentional strategy and tools. Without these, a culture is rarely developed and disciple making is left to random chance and this is a predicament that smallcircle aims to resolve by providing tools designed to catalyze a one-to-one disciple-making culture within local churches. Join Bobby Harrington (Discipleship.org Founder and Executive Director) as he interacts with Steve McCoy who is a senior pastor and the visionary behind small circle. Key Takeaways  Discipleship in Three Circles | Steve McCoy 00:00 Introduction and Background of Steve McCoy 00:27 The 360 Church and Its Discipleship Philosophy 04:27 Intentional Strategy for Disciple Making 05:07 The Importance of Relational Depth in Small Groups 08:24 Introducing the Small Circle Tool 08:33 The Why Behind the Tool 11:38 Developing Confidence in Everyday Disciple Makers 17:58 Structuring the Discipleship Tools 29:59 The Flexibility of One-to-One Discipleship 30:23 Tools for the Disciple Maker 30:53 Journaling and Scripture Memory 31:36 Additional Resources and Reading 33:36 Purchasing and Costs of Discipleship Materials 34:21 Introduction to the Small Circle App 37:32 Navigating the App and Its Features 44:42 Global Reach and Language Translations 52:56 Final Thoughts and Encouragement Check out Discipleship.org for resources on disciple-making: https://discipleship.org/resources/  Have you subscribed? Click HERE – https://www.youtube.com/@discipleshipdotorg/featured  Take the FREE Disciple Maker Assessment: https://church-multiplication.com/disciplemaker/ Come to the The National Disciple Making Forum: https://discipleship.org/national-disciple-making-forum/ Stay informed - Get our newsletter:  http://eepurl.com/hPViAr Listen - Disciple Maker's Podcast:  https://discipleship.org/resources/podcast/ See below for a longer description:  In this insightful video, Steve McCoy, lead pastor at 360 Church, shares his unique approach to disciple-making that originates from Jesus' methods. McCoy discusses his journey from church planting to leading a thriving congregation that emphasizes intentional discipleship. Central to this approach is the concept of the '360 Church,' represented by three circles: large weekend worship gatherings, mid-sized small groups, and intimate one-on-one or micro-group discipleship settings. This method aims to replicate Jesus' relational disciple-making style, fostering deeper connections and spiritual growth among church members. McCoy outlines the various levels of discipleship at 360 Church, such as congregational worship, deeper discussions in small groups, and highly personalized one-on-one discipleship relationships. He also introduces a discipleship tool called 'Small Circle,' which is available for free on mobile apps and features a range of resources structured to ease everyday people into disciple-making roles. The tool includes detailed lesson plans, scripture, memory verses, and methods for fostering a strong relational depth. The discussion further goes into the importance of practical tools in empowering individuals like 'truck driver Ted' to become effective disciple-makers. Steve McCoy emphasizes the necessity of providing everyday church members with the confidence and resources to engage in discipleship, thereby creating a movement within the church community. Today's video promotes the logical use of discipleship tools that go beyond mere information transfer to achieve life transformation and relational depth. This video is a must-watch for church leaders, pastors, and anyone interested in practical disciple-making strategies. Tune in to learn how intentional and relational discipleship can transform both individuals and entire church communities. We would be honored if you would share this video, to grow our mission of equipping the church to make disciples. Please comment like and subscribe to this video for more tools on disciple making.  Check out our Blogs: https://discipleship.org/blog/ 

    Cultivating Christ-like Community | Jeff Vanderstelt

    Play Episode Listen Later Nov 26, 2025 41:54


    Join us for the 2026 National Disciple Making Forum: https://discipleship.org/2026-national-disciple-making-forum/ Creating Authentic Disciples: Jeff Vanderstilt on Living Christ-Like Relationships In this video, Jeff Vanderstilt, the visionary leader of the Soma family of churches, emphasizes living out the love that Jesus preached in relationships. Jeff elaborates on the need to rethink church structures to foster environments that effectively make disciples. He advocates for life-on-life, life-in-community, and life-on-mission discipleship, sharing personal experiences to illustrate the transformative power of close, intentional relationships. The discussion also touches on the challenge of balancing privacy and community in the pastoral role, the importance of trust, and the necessity for dedicated spiritual mentorship. Check out Discipleship.org for resources on disciple making: https://discipleship.org/resources/  Key Takeaways  00:00 Introduction to Jeff Vanderstilt's Session on Relationships 01:57 Redefining Church Structure for Effective Discipleship 04:18 The Three Relational Environments Essential for Discipleship 08:05 Life in Community: Building a Discipleship Culture 11:45 Life on Mission: Discipleship in Action 14:40 Challenging Traditional Church Models for Authentic Discipleship 17:00 Embracing Kingdom Culture Over American Individualism 26:04 The Importance of Trust and Accountability in Discipleship 39:20 Closing Thoughts and Prayer

    45 Degree Shifts: From Addition to Multiplication in Disciple Making

    Play Episode Listen Later Nov 24, 2025 21:44


    Join us for the 2026 National Disciple Making Forum: https://discipleship.org/2026-national-disciple-making-forum/  Stay Informed - Get our newsletter: http://eepurl.com/hPViAr Transforming Churches: 45-Degree Shifts from Addition to Multiplication - Disciple Maker's Podcast Join Josh Howard in this solo episode of the Disciple Maker's Podcast as he discusses the essential '45-degree shifts' churches need to make to transition from addition to multiplication in discipleship. Josh outlines four key shifts: moving from knowledge-based to obedience-based discipleship, transforming churches from teaching centers to training centers, focusing on God's kingdom over personal church growth, and shifting from employing to deploying people. Drawing from his 16+ years of experience on the mission field in India, Josh offers practical insights for creating a disciple-making culture within churches. Reach out to Josh for further engagement and support in making these pivotal changes. Email: josh@discipleship.org. 00:00 Introduction and Overview 00:24 Understanding the 45 Degree Shift 03:05 Shift 1: Knowledge to Obedience 05:23 Shift 2: Teaching Center to Training Center 09:08 Shift 3: My Kingdom to God's Kingdom 13:19 Shift 4: Employing to Deploying 19:32 Conclusion and Call to Action

    The Journey to Multiplication | K.P. Yohanna

    Play Episode Listen Later Nov 19, 2025 31:32


    Join us for the 2026 National Disciple Making Forum: https://discipleship.org/2026-national-disciple-making-forum/ The Power of True Discipleship and the Heart for the Lost In this compelling discussion, KP Yohanna shares his journey of faith, touching on themes of true discipleship, the importance of a heart for the lost, and the transformative power of genuine Christianity. He recounts the profound impact of his mother's unwavering dedication and prayer life, the crisis of faith he experienced during his theological studies, and the vision behind Gospel for Asia. He challenges American Christians to reevaluate their priorities and commitment to spreading the Gospel, emphasizing that true belief in Christ must be accompanied by a deep concern for the salvation of others. Check out Discipleship.org for resources on disciple-making: https://discipleship.org/resources/  Key Takeaways  00:00 Introduction and Opening Thoughts 00:57 The Concept of Multiplication 03:53 Personal Testimony and Struggles 05:58 A Renewed Passion for the Lost 11:00 The Birth of the Gospel of Asia 13:00 The Reality of Hell and True Discipleship 22:48 A Mother's Influence and Sacrifice 28:59 Call to Action and Final Reflections Stay Informed - Get our newsletter: http://eepurl.com/hPViAr

    Simple Tools for Effective Disciple Making

    Play Episode Listen Later Nov 17, 2025 22:47


    Mastering the 15-Second Testimony: A Key Tool for Disciple Making In this episode of the Disciple Makers Podcast, host Josh Howard explores the importance of simple, reproducible tools for making disciples. Josh introduces the '15-Second Testimony,' a powerful method for sharing personal stories of faith to open hearts to the gospel. He shares his own transformative experiences and offers practical tips for creating and using these quick testimonies effectively. Whether you're a seasoned Christian or new to disciple-making, this episode equips you with a valuable tool to confidently share your faith. Tune in and learn how to be a witness of Jesus in just 15 seconds. Key Takeaways  00:00 Introduction and Core Principles 00:33 The Importance of Simple, Reproducible Tools 02:27 Introducing the 15 Second Testimony 04:16 Misconceptions About Testimonies 09:14 Josh's Personal Testimony 14:19 Creating Your Own 15 Second Testimony 18:48 Encouragement and Final Thoughts

    From Infancy to Spiritual Parenthood | Jim Putman

    Play Episode Listen Later Nov 12, 2025 41:13


    Join us for the 2026 National Disciple Making Forum: https://discipleship.org/2026-national-disciple-making-forum/ Check out the book Discipleship: https://discipleship.org/resources/discipleshift-the-book/  Redefining Spiritual Maturity: A Journey of Love, Repentance, and Family In this discussion, a group of pastors and spiritual leaders explore the true beginning of the Christian journey. The conversation critiques the misconception that getting 'saved' is the end goal and emphasizes the ongoing process of growing in spiritual maturity. The discussion goes into the importance of repentance, heartfelt humility, and understanding our broken nature. They highlight the role of the Holy Spirit in giving believers a new heart and spiritual DNA, illustrating the growth from spiritual infancy to maturity. Emphasizing relational discipleship over mere knowledge and obedience, they argue that true spiritual maturity is rooted in genuine love for God and others. The panel reflects on the pitfalls of modern discipleship methods, the need for a redefined understanding of love, and the importance of familial relationships within the church community. Ultimately, the end goal is to mirror the love and humility of Jesus Christ, urging leaders and believers to foster deep, loving relationships as the foundation of genuine discipleship. Check out Discipleship.org for resources on disciple-making: https://discipleship.org/resources/  Key Takeaways  00:00 The Journey Begins: Understanding True Spiritual Growth 03:46 The Essence of Spiritual Maturity: Beyond Knowledge and Obedience 07:14 The Heart of Maturity: Love as the Ultimate Measure 15:21 Challenges in Modern Discipleship: Addressing Misconceptions 17:05 Revolutionizing Love in Discipleship: A Call for Radical Surrender 32:01 The Role of Pastors and Leaders in Fostering True Discipleship 37:39 Concluding Thoughts on Love, Repentance, and Discipleship Stay Informed - Get our newsletter: http://eepurl.com/hPViAr

    Spiritual Warfare and Disciple Making with Dr. Marcus Warner

    Play Episode Listen Later Nov 10, 2025 38:47


    Join us for the 2026 National Disciple Making Forum: https://discipleship.org/2026-national-disciple-making-forum/ Understanding Spiritual Warfare & Disciple Making with Dr. Marcus Warner In this episode of the Disciple Makers Podcast, host Josh is joined by Dr. Marcus Warner from Deeper Walk to discuss the critical intersection of spiritual warfare and disciple making. Dr. Warner shares his journey from academic training to hands-on ministry, working with individuals experiencing deep spiritual struggles. The episode dives deep into identifying and combating spiritual warfare, the differences in dealing with non-Christians and Christians, and practical steps for achieving spiritual freedom. Key topics include the role of sin, occult practices, unforgiveness, lies, and lineage in spiritual bondage, and a methodical approach to breaking free. Whether you're already in ministry or looking to deepen your understanding of spiritual warfare, this episode offers valuable insights and actionable advice. 00:00 Introduction and Guest Welcome 01:13 Marcus Warner's Journey into Disciple Making 02:15 Academic Background and Spiritual Warfare 04:58 Evangelistic vs. Christian Spiritual Warfare 08:01 Personal Experiences with Spiritual Warfare 11:56 Theological Insights on Spiritual Warfare 18:27 Practical Steps for Addressing Spiritual Warfare 20:54 Unintentional Invitations to the Occult 21:45 The Power of Forgiveness 22:42 The Impact of Lies and Lineage 24:35 A Personal Story of Fear 27:03 The Four C's Process for Spiritual Warfare 30:19 The Importance of Full Commitment to Jesus 34:54 Final Thoughts and Resources Get Discipleship.org's premium Podcast Feed: https://disciplemakerspodcast.supercast.com/  Check out the following eBooks from Discipleship.org: -- What Is Church? And How Important Is It?  https://discipleship.org/shop/what-is-church-and-how-important-is-it/ -- Family Discipleship Blueprint: A Year-by-Year Guide to Family Discipleship https://discipleship.org/shop/family-discipleship-blueprint-a-year-by-year-guide-to-family-discipleship/ -- Becoming a Disciple Maker https://discipleship.org/shop/becoming-a-disciple-maker/ -- National Study: The State of Disciple Making Churches: A 10 Minute Visual Guide https://discipleship.org/shop/national-study-the-state-of-disciple-making-churches-a-10-minute-visual-guide/ -- Reaching & Discipling Women: A Guide to Women's Ministry in Your Church https://discipleship.org/shop/reaching-discipling-women-a-guide-to-womens-ministry-in-your-church/ Check out the following Books from Discipleship.org: -- The Discipleship Gospel https://himpublications.com/product/the-discipleship-gospel/?utm_source=discipleship-org&utm_medium=website&utm_campaign=books-page -- Disciple-Making Culture https://himpublications.com/product/disciple-making-culture/ -- Recreated to Be like God: Making Disciples in the Image of Jesus https://a.co/d/6DDvUrC -- King Jesus and the Beauty of Obedience-Based Discipleship https://a.co/d/7d85z6T -- The Disciple Maker's Handbook: Seven Elements of a Discipleship Lifestyle https://a.co/d/4ZHIbQz Take the FREE Disciple Maker Assessment: https://church-multiplication.com/disciplemaker/ Come to the The National Disciple Making Forum: https://discipleship.org/national-disciple-making-forum/ Stay informed - Get our newsletter:  http://eepurl.com/hPViAr Listen - Disciple Maker's Podcast:  https://discipleship.org/resources/podcast/

    Francis Chan and the Bible

    Play Episode Listen Later Nov 5, 2025 43:21


    The Authority of Scripture: A Call to True Discipleship In this powerful session, Francis Chan discusses the irreplaceable role of the Bible in true discipleship. Highlighting the importance of scripture as the guide and manual for living a God-honoring life, Chan calls for a return to trembling at God's Word. He emphasizes the necessity of obedience, moving beyond mere knowledge to living out the teachings of the Bible. Drawing insights from Isaiah 66:2 and the Great Commission, Chan and other leaders explore the challenges of contemporary discipleship, the vital connection between understanding and action, and the importance of community in obeying God's Word. This session is a call to deepen your reverence for scripture and allows it to transform both personal and communal life. Check out Discipleship.org for free resources on disciple making: https://discipleship.org/resources/  Key Takeaways  00:00 Welcome to Francis Chan's Session on Scripture and Discipleship 00:40 The Importance of Scripture in Discipleship 01:14 Embracing Scripture's Authority 01:52 Personal Transformation Through Scripture 03:08 The Power of Biblical Resources in Modern Times 03:31 Trembling at God's Word: A Call for Reverence 06:33 Obedience Over Knowledge: The True Measure of Discipleship 16:51 Embracing Suffering and Obedience in Following Christ 22:26 Practical Steps Towards Biblical Obedience and Discipleship 39:50 The Ultimate Goal: Becoming Like Christ Through Scripture   For more information about Discipleship.org. visit our website or reach out too us at info@discipleship.org Stay informed - Get our newsletter:  http://eepurl.com/hPViAr

    From Pressure Washing to Disciple Making (feat. Joshua Brown)

    Play Episode Listen Later Nov 3, 2025 32:09


    Check out Discipleship.org: https://discipleship.org/ From Pressure Washing to Disciple Making: Joshua Brown's Inspiring Journey In this powerful episode of the Disciple Makers Podcast, we welcome Joshua Brown, a dedicated disciple maker and entrepreneur. Joshua shares his incredible testimony, detailing his journey.' He talks about leveraging his business to create discipleship opportunities in Nashville and across the country. Joshua also discusses his new initiative, 'Dudes Without Dads,' which aims to address fatherlessness and mentor young men. Tune in to be inspired by Joshua's story and to learn practical ways to integrate disciple making into your daily life and business endeavors. Key Takeaways  00:00 Introduction and Guest Introduction 01:28 Joshua's Powerful Testimony 03:59 Transition to Ministry and Business 09:05 Disciple Making in the Business World 13:56 Creating a Disciple-Making Business Model 24:28 Dudes Without Dads Initiative 28:55 Conclusion and Contact Information Get Discipleship.org's premium Podcast Feed: https://disciplemakerspodcast.supercast.com/  Check out the following eBooks from Discipleship.org: -- What Is Church? And How Important Is It?  https://discipleship.org/shop/what-is-church-and-how-important-is-it/ -- Family Discipleship Blueprint: A Year-by-Year Guide to Family Discipleship https://discipleship.org/shop/family-discipleship-blueprint-a-year-by-year-guide-to-family-discipleship/ -- Becoming a Disciple Maker https://discipleship.org/shop/becoming-a-disciple-maker/ -- National Study: The State of Disciple Making Churches: A 10 Minute Visual Guide https://discipleship.org/shop/national-study-the-state-of-disciple-making-churches-a-10-minute-visual-guide/ -- Reaching & Discipling Women: A Guide to Women's Ministry in Your Church https://discipleship.org/shop/reaching-discipling-women-a-guide-to-womens-ministry-in-your-church/ Check out the following Books from Discipleship.org: -- The Discipleship Gospel https://himpublications.com/product/the-discipleship-gospel/?utm_source=discipleship-org&utm_medium=website&utm_campaign=books-page -- Disciple-Making Culture https://himpublications.com/product/disciple-making-culture/ -- Recreated to Be like God: Making Disciples in the Image of Jesus https://a.co/d/6DDvUrC -- King Jesus and the Beauty of Obedience-Based Discipleship https://a.co/d/7d85z6T -- The Disciple Maker's Handbook: Seven Elements of a Discipleship Lifestyle https://a.co/d/4ZHIbQz Take the FREE Disciple Maker Assessment: https://church-multiplication.com/disciplemaker/ Come to the The National Disciple Making Forum: https://discipleship.org/national-disciple-making-forum/ Stay informed - Get our newsletter:  http://eepurl.com/hPViAr Listen - Disciple Maker's Podcast:  https://discipleship.org/resources/podcast/

    Embracing Jesus and Making Disciples | Bill Hull

    Play Episode Listen Later Oct 29, 2025 38:41


    Get Discipleship.org's premium Podcast Feed: https://disciplemakerspodcast.supercast.com/ Rediscovering the True Gospel: A Deep Dive into Discipleship In this video Bill Hull examines the fundamental role of Jesus in discipleship and the essence of the gospel. Reflecting on the disparity between contemporary evangelism and the holistic message of the Bible, the discussion highlights the importance of viewing salvation as a transformative journey rather than a mere decision. By exploring historical figures and the impact of American theology, the session aims to challenge and inspire a return to a fuller, more integrated understanding of the gospel and true discipleship. Check out Discipleship.org ebooks: https://discipleship.org/resources/ebooks/ Key Takeaways  00:00 Introduction to the Session on Jesus 00:32 The Fundamental Topic: Jesus and Discipleship 02:07 A Personal Anecdote on Preaching the Gospel 04:08 The Evolution of Evangelism and the Gospel in America 06:48 Challenges of Modern Discipleship and Evangelism 09:21 Redefining the Gospel for Authentic Discipleship 12:10 Defending the Legacy of Evangelical Leaders 14:38 The Impact of Evangelism Beyond the Decision Moment 17:46 Revisiting the Essence of the Gospel and Discipleship 29:33 The Role of the Holy Spirit in True Transformation 36:52 Concluding Reflections and Personal Testimony See below for a longer description:  This video featuring Bill Hull, Francis Chan, Jim Putman and more is a profound discussion on the essence of discipleship, centered around the figure of Jesus. The conversation goes into the core elements of discipleship, emphasizing the importance of aligning beliefs with actions and living out the principles of Jesus' teachings. The speakers reflect on their personal experiences and observations over the years, shedding light on the evolution of gospel presentation and the shift in focus from mere evangelism to comprehensive discipleship. They discuss the challenges of maintaining the purity of the gospel message and the significance of understanding the transformative power of the Holy Spirit in one's life. The dialogue transcends geographical boundaries, touching on the global impact of Americanized interpretations of the gospel and the need for a return to a Christ-centered understanding of faith. The speakers highlight the crucial role of the Holy Spirit in the process of spiritual transformation, emphasizing the importance of genuine heart change rather than superficial adherence to religious practices. The video provides a thought-provoking exploration of the intricacies of faith, challenging viewers to reevaluate their perception of discipleship and the true meaning of following Christ. Stay informed - Get our newsletter:  http://eepurl.com/hPViAr Listen - Disciple Maker's Podcast:  https://discipleship.org/resources/po...

    The Importance of Discipling Men | Tim Brown from ReUp Men's Movement

    Play Episode Listen Later Oct 27, 2025 42:36


    Reigniting Biblical Manhood: Disciples Making Disciples ft. Tim Brown In this powerful episode of the Disciple Makers Podcast, host Josh engages in a deep conversation with Tim Brown from re-Up, an organization focused on discipling men in the church to become disciples who make disciples. Tim shares his personal journey, the importance of discipling men, and the current resurgence of male spiritual leadership in the church. They discuss key principles of biblical manhood, emphasizing identity in Christ, living by His life, and viewing life from God's perspective. Tim also talks about the impact of mentorship and the need for spiritual fathers. Tune in for inspiring insights on how men can step into their God-given roles and lead purposeful lives. Check out ReUp Men's Movement here: https://www.reupmen.com/ Key Takeaways  00:00 Introduction and Excitement for Today's Topic 01:08 Meet Tim Brown: Discipleship and Ministry 01:49 Tim's Personal Journey and New Book 02:42 The Importance of Biblical Male Leadership 05:32 Challenges and Opportunities in Men's Discipleship 08:03 Intergenerational Discipleship 13:35 Defining a Biblical Man 20:39 Three Truths of Biblical Manhood 22:06 Understanding Identity in Christ 22:15 Living by the Life of Jesus 23:26 Viewing Life from God's Perspective 25:03 The Importance of Daily Scripture and Prayer 26:37 Challenges in Discipleship 28:25 The Role of Identity and Purpose 35:08 Encouragement and Final Thoughts

    Intentionally Living the Discipleship Lifestyle | Robert Coleman

    Play Episode Listen Later Oct 22, 2025 55:14


    Wednesday Special!  Today we feature a conversation from Robert Coleman talking about Intentionality and Disciple Making. Robert Coleman, renowned author of 'The Master Plan of Evangelism,' discussing the importance of intentionality in discipleship. Coleman shares his journey and experiences, emphasizing that discipleship requires a clear plan, personal investment in individuals, and alignment with the Great Commission. The conversation extends to practical reflections from other speakers, who highlight the necessity of intentional, personal relationships, the structure of church programs, and the need for pastors to lead by example in making disciples.  Click this link to view Robert Coleman's book Master Plan of Evangelism: https://discipleship.org/shop/revisiting-the-master-plan-of-evangelism/  Key Takeaways:  00:00 Intentionality 03:36 Transitioning from Pastor to Professor: A New Chapter 04:23 The Classroom as a Field for Discipleship 07:20 Living the Great Commission: Personal Stories and Insights 10:04 The Power of Intentional Discipleship in Everyday Life 22:26 Reflections on a Life of Discipleship and Ministry 25:21 The Impact of Intentionality in Discipleship 30:48 A Transformative Encounter: From Prison to Pastoral Leadership 33:01 Deep Dive into Intentionality: Personal Experiences and Insights 38:34 The SOMA Movement: Embedding Intentionality in Identity 42:17 Redefining Discipleship: From Programs to Personal Responsibility 45:18 Auditing for Intentionality: A Call to Action for Churches 49:51 Practical Steps Towards Intentional Discipleship Stay informed - Get our newsletter:  http://eepurl.com/hPViAr Check out these Free resources:  Disciple Making Culture 10 Minute E-Book -- https://discipleship.org/shop/disciple-making-culture-10-minute-ebook/ Discipleship That Fits Ebook -- https://discipleship.org/shop/discipleship-that-fits/ Audio Book Becoming a Disciple Maker -- https://discipleship.org/shop/becoming-a-disciple-maker-audio/

    Disciple Making and AI

    Play Episode Listen Later Oct 20, 2025 36:15


    Leveraging AI for Disciple Making with Tapos AI: Overcoming Fears and Embracing Technology Check out Tapos: https://www.tapos.app/ Check out Discipleship.org's chat widget to ask disciple making: https://discipleship.org/  In this episode of the Disciple Makers Podcast, we dive deep into the intersection of artificial intelligence and disciple making. Joined by Preston and Nick from Tapos, we explore the principles of leveraging AI for kingdom work. Discover how their AI tool, Tapos, assists churches and individuals by making sermonic content searchable and actionable, all while maintaining theological accuracy. Hear personal stories, the benefits of integrating AI in ministry, and practical steps for incorporating this advanced technology safely and effectively. Whether you're apprehensive or enthusiastic about AI, this conversation offers valuable insights on harnessing AI's potential for disciple making. 00:00 Introduction and Topic Overview 01:00 Meet the Guests: Preston and Nick from Taos 02:45 Nick's Background and Journey 04:50 The Birth of Tapos: Preston's Story 09:02 How Taos Works: Practical Applications 15:09 Addressing AI Concerns in Disciple Making 17:51 AI's Role in Personal Questions 18:37 Challenges with AI Advice 19:12 Introducing Taos: A Solution for Churches 19:47 Ensuring Trust and Accuracy in AI Responses 20:59 AI's Impact on Sermon Preparation 21:51 Human Involvement in AI 22:42 Real-Life AI Experiences 26:02 Guardrails and Safety in Taos 27:22 The Future of AI in Churches 31:55 Final Thoughts and Encouragement

    How to Build a Freedom Ministry (feat. Marcus Warner and Dawn Whitestone)

    Play Episode Listen Later Oct 13, 2025 64:52


    This episode comes from our 2025 National Disciple Making Forum. Get all of these sessions early access here: https://disciplemakerspodcast.supercast.com/ Join us for the 2026 National Disciple Making Forum: https://discipleship.org/2026-national-disciple-making-forum/  Check out Deeper Walk: https://deeperwalk.com/ Since spiritual warfare is so important to spiritual transformation, every church should have a team that is able to deal with issues related to freedom and transformation. You will learn several options for starting and expanding a freedom ministry in your organization.

    How Spiritual Warfare Works (feat. Marcus Warner, Dan Allison, and Sarah Allison)

    Play Episode Listen Later Oct 6, 2025 64:58


    This episode comes from our 2025 National Disciple Making Forum. Get all of these sessions early access here: https://disciplemakerspodcast.supercast.com/ Join us for the 2026 National Disciple Making Forum: https://discipleship.org/2026-national-disciple-making-forum/  Check out Deeper Walk: https://deeperwalk.com/ How do we actually help people with spiritual warfare problems? This session will introduce several tools and practices that have proven helpful in setting people free from the strongholds that keep them enslaved.

    Understanding a Warfare Worldview (feat. Marcus Warner)

    Play Episode Listen Later Sep 29, 2025 70:02


    Understanding Spiritual Warfare: Theology and Practical Applications - Session 2 In this episode, we delve into the theological underpinnings of spiritual warfare and explore concepts such as power encounters, truth encounters, and the legal approach to understanding demonic activity. The session provides insights into how permission and authority play crucial roles in spiritual warfare, illustrated with real-life examples including overcoming occult practices and generational curses. With a focus on practical applications, the video also covers the process of conducting a freedom prayer, addressing mental and emotional wounds, and ensuring participants find lasting freedom and healing in their lives. 00:00 Introduction to Warfare Worldview 01:27 Theological Foundations of Spiritual Warfare 01:50 Power Encounter vs. Truth Encounter 03:03 Legal Approach to Spiritual Warfare 05:31 Authority in Spiritual Warfare 07:16 Practical Examples and Case Studies 11:08 Permission and Authority in Spiritual Warfare 12:52 Understanding Demonic Influence 20:29 Generational and Lineage Influences 22:42 Occult Practices and Counterfeit Christianity 24:55 Eviction Process and Freedom Prayer 26:10 Case Study: Overcoming Fear and Overeating 35:24 Ground Rules for Spiritual Warfare 36:05 Dorothy's Command to the Spirit 36:54 Personal Testimonies and Experiences 40:15 Q&A Session Begins 42:17 Intercessory Prayer and Spiritual Warfare 44:08 Deliverance and Exorcism 48:46 Post-Deliverance Discipleship 59:44 Generational Curses and Ancestral Lineage 01:01:20 Counterfeit Spiritual Experiences 01:04:04 Final Q&A and Closing Remarks

    Why Spiritual Warfare Is Essential to the Discipleship Process (feat. Marcus Warner)

    Play Episode Listen Later Sep 22, 2025 50:54


    This episode comes from our 2025 National Disciple Making Forum. Get all of these sessions early access here: https://disciplemakerspodcast.supercast.com/ Join us for the 2026 National Disciple Making Forum: https://discipleship.org/2026-national-disciple-making-forum/  Check out Deeper Walk: https://deeperwalk.com/ Track Session 1: Why Spiritual Warfare Is Essential to the Discipleship Process Spiritual Warfare may not be the first thing that comes to mind when you think of making disciples, but people cannot grow maturity if they are ensnared in spiritual bondage. We will explore biblical and practical reasons why dealing with spiritual warfare in a biblically balanced way is often the key to revival and an essential element to spiritual transformation.

    Faithfulness and Readiness in Matthew 25

    Play Episode Listen Later Sep 15, 2025 25:17


    In this episode of the Disciple Makers Podcast, Jason discusses the importance of readiness, faithfulness, and fruitfulness in the Christian life. He reflects on the parable of the ten virgins from Matthew 25, emphasizing the need for constant readiness and faithfulness, not just a last-minute scramble. He discusses how readiness is not about knowing future events but being faithful in the present. Jason shares anecdotes about his own struggles with procrastination and urges listeners to focus on their immediate actions and short-term goals. He contrasts this with historical examples of failed doomsday predictions to highlight the futility of trying to pinpoint the end times. The episode concludes with a call to action for consistent, faithful living in daily discipleship and evangelism.

    Cultivating Discipleship: Aligning Identity with Ministry (feat. Robby Angle)

    Play Episode Listen Later Sep 8, 2025 35:34


    Discipleship: Trusting and Receiving with Robbie Eng | Disciple Makers Podcast In this insightful episode of the Disciple Makers Podcast, host Josh engages in a deep conversation with Robbie Eng from True Face. Robbie shares his personal journey and the pivotal shift from a performance-based faith to one rooted in trusting and receiving God's love. They discuss the importance of correct beliefs and philosophy in creating effective discipleship environments and the impact of leaders' personal spiritual health on their ministry. Robbie emphasizes a relationship with God based on trust and receiving over merely knowing more and doing better. Tune in to discover practical ways to foster healthy discipleship cultures in your ministry and personal life. 00:00 Introduction and Welcome 01:05 Meet Robbie Eng: A Journey of Faith 02:41 The Importance of Small Groups in Discipleship 03:34 Understanding True Face and Its Impact 05:03 The Core of Discipleship: Beliefs and Philosophy 10:05 Practical Applications and Leader Development 12:02 The Role of Identity in Ministry 16:10 Creating a Culture of Trust and Receiving 32:24 Final Thoughts and Resources Get Discipleship.org's premium Podcast Feed: https://disciplemakerspodcast.supercast.com/  Check out the following eBooks from Discipleship.org: -- What Is Church? And How Important Is It?  https://discipleship.org/shop/what-is-church-and-how-important-is-it/ -- Family Discipleship Blueprint: A Year-by-Year Guide to Family Discipleship https://discipleship.org/shop/family-discipleship-blueprint-a-year-by-year-guide-to-family-discipleship/ -- Becoming a Disciple Maker https://discipleship.org/shop/becoming-a-disciple-maker/ In this episode of the Disciple Makers Podcast, host Josh welcomes Robby Angle, president of True Face, for a deep and candid conversation about cultivating authentic discipleship by aligning personal identity with ministry practice. The discussion opens with lighthearted banter, quickly establishing a tone of vulnerability and friendship that sets the stage for the episode's core themes. Robby shares his journey through various ministry roles, from Young Life staff to international disaster response with Samaritan's Purse, professional counseling, and leading small groups at North Point Church. He describes how his experiences shaped his understanding that spiritual growth is most effective in the context of authentic relationships, but also acknowledges the widespread problem of “lame” small groups that fail to foster real transformation. The heart of the episode centers on the subtle but critical distinction between doing ministry for God out of a sense of earning versus operating from a place of received identity and grace. Robby and Josh both reflect on how easy it is for ministry leaders to derive their sense of worth from their roles and achievements, rather than from their identity as beloved children of God. Robby recounts a pivotal moment during his time in Pakistan, where he realized that his drive to “do more and know more” for God was rooted in pride and a misunderstanding of the gospel. He emphasizes that true discipleship is not about earning God's love, but about trusting and receiving it, which then naturally overflows into loving action. The conversation unpacks how beliefs about God and self form the foundation for ministry philosophy and, ultimately, the environments and outcomes in churches. Robby argues that most leaders focus on tweaking environments or adopting new resources, but the real transformation comes from regularly revisiting and realigning core beliefs and philosophies. He illustrates how a leader's internal posture—whether rooted in striving or in secure identity—directly shapes the culture and effectiveness of their groups. Josh and Robby discuss practical implications for church leaders, highlighting the importance of developing leaders who are secure in their identity and philosophy before focusing on group formation or equipping. Robby outlines four key areas for churches: developing leaders, supporting leaders, getting people into groups, and equipping those groups, stressing that leader development is the most crucial and often overlooked step. The episode concludes with practical resources, including True Face's “The Cure” and discipleshipframework.com, and an invitation for leaders to reach out for support. Ultimately, the conversation calls ministry leaders to examine their motives, root their identity in Christ, and lead others from a place of freedom, trust, and genuine love. More Discipleship.org Resources:  -- Recreated to Be like God: Making Disciples in the Image of Jesus https://a.co/d/6DDvUrC Stay informed - Get our newsletter:  http://eepurl.com/hPViAr Listen - Disciple Maker's Podcast:  https://discipleship.org/resources/podcast/

    Practical Tools for Microgroups (feat. Bart Shaw)

    Play Episode Listen Later Sep 1, 2025 30:45


    Creating a Disciple-Making Culture with Bart Shaw | Disciple Makers Podcast In this episode of the Disciple Makers Podcast, host Josh Howard speaks with special guest Bart Shaw, disciple-making strategist and campus pastor at Traders Point Christian Church. Bart Shaw shares his journey and insights into cultivating a disciple-making culture in the church through innovative methods like micro groups. These small, high-accountability groups focus on deep, intentional scripture study and practical obedience to God's word. Bart discusses the importance of multiplication, building relationships, and the need for accountability to foster genuine spiritual growth. He also highlights the significance of personal commitment to disciple-making for church leaders. Tune in to discover valuable principles and practical steps that can help you and your church create a thriving disciple-making environment. 00:00 Introduction and Guest Welcome 01:09 Bart Shaw's Background and Journey 02:00 Micro Groups: Concept and Implementation 04:18 Impact and Success Stories of Micro Groups 07:55 Challenges and Accountability in Micro Groups 11:03 Personal Journey and Influences 15:40 The Role of Obedience in Movement 16:25 Challenges in Implementing Discipleship Programs 18:16 Lessons from Martial Arts for Discipleship 19:57 Duckling Discipleship: A Simple Yet Effective Approach 21:51 Principles for Effective Micro Groups 26:48 Final Thoughts and Encouragement

    How to Multiply Disciples Alongside Your Sunday Service

    Play Episode Listen Later Aug 25, 2025 48:19


    Join the learning community: https://discipleship.org/hall-of-tyrannus-learning-community/ Empowering Disciple-Making Movements: A Game-Changer for Churches Join Bobby Harrington and Josh Howard in an enlightening webinar designed to shift the paradigm of disciple-making within churches. Bringing 16 years of hands-on experience from India, Josh proposes a 'parallel track' methodology that synergizes with existing church programs. This approach aims to cultivate intentional disciple-makers without dismantling the established structure. Delve into actionable insights on fostering rapid multiplication of disciples, addressing the disconnect in modern church culture, and creating a sustainable disciple-making model. Essential for pastors, church leaders, and anyone committed to Jesus-style discipleship, this episode unpacks a strategic pathway to meet the Great Commission in today's context. 00:00 Welcome and Introduction 01:53 Josh Howard's Background and Experience 04:28 Defining Disciple Making Movements 06:58 Core Definitions of Discipleship 13:02 The Biblical Basis for Disciple Making 15:24 Challenges in Modern Church Discipleship 18:18 The Parallel Track Approach 26:36 Implementing the Parallel Track 36:08 Q&A and Final Thoughts Get Discipleship.org's premium Podcast Feed: https://disciplemakerspodcast.supercast.com/  Check out the following eBooks from Discipleship.org: -- What Is Church? And How Important Is It?  https://discipleship.org/shop/what-is-church-and-how-important-is-it/ -- Family Discipleship Blueprint: A Year-by-Year Guide to Family Discipleship https://discipleship.org/shop/family-discipleship-blueprint-a-year-by-year-guide-to-family-discipleship/ -- Becoming a Disciple Maker https://discipleship.org/shop/becoming-a-disciple-maker/ -- National Study: The State of Disciple Making Churches: A 10 Minute Visual Guide https://discipleship.org/shop/national-study-the-state-of-disciple-making-churches-a-10-minute-visual-guide/ -- Reaching & Discipling Women: A Guide to Women's Ministry in Your Church https://discipleship.org/shop/reaching-discipling-women-a-guide-to-womens-ministry-in-your-church/ Check out the following Books from Discipleship.org: -- The Discipleship Gospel https://himpublications.com/product/the-discipleship-gospel/?utm_source=discipleship-org&utm_medium=website&utm_campaign=books-page -- Disciple-Making Culture https://himpublications.com/product/disciple-making-culture/ -- Recreated to Be like God: Making Disciples in the Image of Jesus https://a.co/d/6DDvUrC -- King Jesus and the Beauty of Obedience-Based Discipleship https://a.co/d/7d85z6T -- The Disciple Maker's Handbook: Seven Elements of a Discipleship Lifestyle https://a.co/d/4ZHIbQz Take the FREE Disciple Maker Assessment: https://church-multiplication.com/disciplemaker/ Come to the The National Disciple Making Forum: https://discipleship.org/national-disciple-making-forum/ Stay informed - Get our newsletter:  http://eepurl.com/hPViAr Listen - Disciple Maker's Podcast:  https://discipleship.org/resources/podcast/

    Disciple Making Q&A

    Play Episode Listen Later Aug 18, 2025 29:48


    Q&A: Addressing Challenges in Disciple Making | Disciple Makers Podcast In this episode of the Disciple Makers Podcast, we return from a brief break to address listener questions about disciple making. Tune in Josh Howard navigates various topics, including the role of the Big C Church in the USA, handling discouragement, incorporating disciple making into busy lifestyles, and the importance of the supernatural in the disciple making process. Discover practical advice, biblical insights, and encouragement to help you on your journey to becoming a disciple who makes disciples. 00:00 Introduction and Podcast Update 01:23 Q&A Session Begins 01:34 Is the US Church Behind in Disciple Making? 05:38 Dealing with Discouragement in Disciple Making 11:49 Following Jesus' Style in a Busy World 19:07 The Role of the Supernatural in Disciple Making 24:26 Integrating Disciple Making into Daily Life 28:47 Conclusion and Final Thoughts

    Leading Great House Churches | 2025 National Disciple Making Forum (Jason Shepperd)

    Play Episode Listen Later Aug 11, 2025 42:52


    Get access to all of our 2025 National Disciple Making Forum Content: https://disciplemakerspodcast.supercast.com/   Join us for the 2026 National Disciple Making Forum: https://discipleship.org/2026-national-disciple-making-forum/    Track Session 4: Leading Great House Churches A Church of House Churches thrives from the health of great House Churches. Learn our expectations of great House Church gatherings, as well as how House Churches are strategically used to help people grow in their spiritual journey to be fully devoted disciples of Jesus.    

    Distributed Pastoral Leadership | 2025 National Disciple Making Forum (Jason Shepperd)

    Play Episode Listen Later Aug 4, 2025 62:57


    Get access to all of our 2025 National Disciple Making Forum Content: https://disciplemakerspodcast.supercast.com/   Church Project Track Session 3: Distributed Pastoral Leadership Today, the word “pastor” conveys someone far more centralized and public than was used in the New Testament (often it means the public speaker on a stage). How did the Early Church identify, equip, and empower ‘ordinary' individuals to function as pastors, and how could implementing this change the church today?   Effective Leadership and Distributed Model: Insights from Titus Chapter 1 Dive deep into the principles of effective church leadership as drawn from Titus Chapter 1. This episode outlines the importance of localized pastoral leadership and decentralized structure for fostering rapid gospel movement, referencing works by theologian Alan Hirsch. Learn about the history and evolution of house churches, the critical balance between centralized and light centrality, doctrinal training, and the intricate processes of raising new house church pastors. Gain practical insights into maintaining sound doctrine, facilitating diverse community growth, and the importance of continuous leadership development. The episode also covers the successful transition strategies for legacy churches, effective house church operation, and quantitative versus qualitative measurement of church health. 00:00 Introduction to Titus Chapter One 00:13 The Role of Elders in the Early Church 01:11 Centrality and Movement in the Church 02:16 Distributed Leadership and Sound Doctrine 03:46 House Church Origins and Growth 05:12 Developing Doctrine and Duties 07:56 Pastoring House Church Pastors 14:23 Handling Diversity and Sanctification 17:45 Sunday Gatherings vs. House Churches 24:23 Reflections and Lessons Learned 28:59 Connecting People in a Growing Community 29:56 Leadership Turnover and Mobility 33:13 One-on-One Discipleship Approach 35:35 Challenges in Transitioning Legacy Churches 41:35 Preaching and Teaching in House Churches 45:49 Leadership Pipeline and Testing 50:12 Measuring Success and Engagement 57:46 Recruiting Initial House Church Pastors 59:38 Final Q&A and Leadership Development   Get Discipleship.org's premium Podcast Feed: https://disciplemakerspodcast.supercast.com/  Check out the following eBooks from Discipleship.org: -- What Is Church? And How Important Is It?  https://discipleship.org/shop/what-is-church-and-how-important-is-it/ -- Family Discipleship Blueprint: A Year-by-Year Guide to Family Discipleship https://discipleship.org/shop/family-discipleship-blueprint-a-year-by-year-guide-to-family-discipleship/ -- Becoming a Disciple Maker https://discipleship.org/shop/becoming-a-disciple-maker/ -- National Study: The State of Disciple Making Churches: A 10 Minute Visual Guide https://discipleship.org/shop/national-study-the-state-of-disciple-making-churches-a-10-minute-visual-guide/ -- Reaching & Discipling Women: A Guide to Women's Ministry in Your Church https://discipleship.org/shop/reaching-discipling-women-a-guide-to-womens-ministry-in-your-church/ Check out the following Books from Discipleship.org: -- The Discipleship Gospel https://himpublications.com/product/the-discipleship-gospel/?utm_source=discipleship-org&utm_medium=website&utm_campaign=books-page -- Disciple-Making Culture https://himpublications.com/product/disciple-making-culture/ -- Recreated to Be like God: Making Disciples in the Image of Jesus https://a.co/d/6DDvUrC -- King Jesus and the Beauty of Obedience-Based Discipleship https://a.co/d/7d85z6T -- The Disciple Maker's Handbook: Seven Elements of a Discipleship Lifestyle https://a.co/d/4ZHIbQz Take the FREE Disciple Maker Assessment: https://church-multiplication.com/disciplemaker/ Come to the The National Disciple Making Forum: https://discipleship.org/national-disciple-making-forum/ Stay informed - Get our newsletter:  http://eepurl.com/hPViAr Listen - Disciple Maker's Podcast:  https://discipleship.org/resources/podcast/

    Decentralized, Diverse Discipleship Communities | 2025 National Disciple Making Forum (Jason Shepperd)

    Play Episode Listen Later Jul 28, 2025 61:20


    Track Session 2: Decentralized, Diverse Discipleship Communities Get access to all of our 2025 National Disciple Making Forum Content: https://disciplemakerspodcast.supercast.com/ While most churches' group structures operate as homogeneous friend groups, the Early Church gathered in diverse, cross-generational communities operating as a spiritual family. Discover the need to return to this fullest expression of the church in House Churches. Revisiting Ecclesiology: House Churches and the DNA of True Biblical Communities In this insightful episode, Jason Shepherd, founder of Church Project, shares his journey of starting a church 15 years ago with a vision of creating authentic biblical communities. Without a designated church name, the project focuses on rediscovering Christ's original intent for the church. Shepherd discusses the key elements of ecclesiological DNA (EDNA), emphasizing distributed pastoral leadership, decentralized structures, and diverse discipleship communities. He explores the historical and biblical foundation of house churches, citing scripture to argue for their continued relevance. Shepherd also provides practical insights into the formation, growth, and management of house churches, and how they engage with benevolent activities and student ministries. This episode challenges conventional church models, advocating for smaller, mission-focused, relationally-rich communities. Key Takeaways  00:00 Introduction and Speaker Background 01:52 Understanding Ecclesiology 03:15 The Concept of House Church 05:24 House Church in Practice 07:23 House Church Multiplication 12:08 Small Groups vs. House Churches 23:58 Qualities of a New Testament House Church 28:43 Q&A Session 32:41 Evaluating the Health of Your House Church 34:32 The Importance of Hospitality 35:47 Developing House Church Pastors 37:14 Scheduling and Meeting Logistics 39:56 Balancing Growth and Intimacy 48:12 Handling Kids in House Church 56:12 Financial Practices and Benevolence 58:49 Connecting Newcomers to House Churches 01:00:27 Final Q&A and Closing Remarks   Get Discipleship.org's premium Podcast Feed: https://disciplemakerspodcast.supercast.com/  Check out the following eBooks from Discipleship.org: -- What Is Church? And How Important Is It?  https://discipleship.org/shop/what-is-church-and-how-important-is-it/ -- Family Discipleship Blueprint: A Year-by-Year Guide to Family Discipleship https://discipleship.org/shop/family-discipleship-blueprint-a-year-by-year-guide-to-family-discipleship/ -- Becoming a Disciple Maker https://discipleship.org/shop/becoming-a-disciple-maker/ -- National Study: The State of Disciple Making Churches: A 10 Minute Visual Guide https://discipleship.org/shop/national-study-the-state-of-disciple-making-churches-a-10-minute-visual-guide/ -- Reaching & Discipling Women: A Guide to Women's Ministry in Your Church https://discipleship.org/shop/reaching-discipling-women-a-guide-to-womens-ministry-in-your-church/ Check out the following Books from Discipleship.org: -- The Discipleship Gospel https://himpublications.com/product/the-discipleship-gospel/?utm_source=discipleship-org&utm_medium=website&utm_campaign=books-page -- Disciple-Making Culture https://himpublications.com/product/disciple-making-culture/ -- Recreated to Be like God: Making Disciples in the Image of Jesus https://a.co/d/6DDvUrC -- King Jesus and the Beauty of Obedience-Based Discipleship https://a.co/d/7d85z6T -- The Disciple Maker's Handbook: Seven Elements of a Discipleship Lifestyle https://a.co/d/4ZHIbQz Take the FREE Disciple Maker Assessment: https://church-multiplication.com/disciplemaker/ Come to the The National Disciple Making Forum: https://discipleship.org/national-disciple-making-forum/ Stay informed - Get our newsletter:  http://eepurl.com/hPViAr Listen - Disciple Maker's Podcast:  https://discipleship.org/resources/podcast/

    Re-Discovering E-DNA | 2025 National Disciple Making Forum (Jason Shepperd)

    Play Episode Listen Later Jul 21, 2025 59:37


    Get access to all of our 2025 National Disciple Making Forum Content: https://disciplemakerspodcast.supercast.com/ Church Project Track Session 1: Re-Discovering E-DNA Jesus started this beautiful thing called "church," not man. And, He and His followers led and modeled how he intended for church to be lived out. Rather than the latest church growth book or contextually-based model, it is time to return to the ways Jesus intended for His Church to be lived out as seen in the example of the Early Church. Rethinking Church: From Traditional to Transformative - A Journey of Rediscovery In this session, the speaker shares his 15-year journey of founding and developing Church Project. Growing up in a small fundamental Southern Baptist church in Tyler, Texas, he initially misunderstood the gospel's breadth. Through years of college, internships, and pastoral work, he grappled with his frustrations and God's calling. After leaving traditional church settings, he started Church Project with a mission to return to the church's original intent. The session dives into the importance of decentralizing from primary places and priests, distributing pastoral leadership, and fostering diverse discipleship communities. Through biblical references, especially Titus chapter one, the speaker explains the foundational elements needed to create effective and healthy church communities. Join this transformative discussion that challenges conventional ecclesiology and aims to shape a more inclusive, decentralized, and dynamic church model. Key Takeaways  00:00 The Beginnings of Church Product 00:45 Discovering the True Gospel 00:54 From Pre-Med to Ministry 01:46 A Frustrated Calling 03:46 The Birth of Church Product 04:29 Rethinking Church 05:12 Understanding Ecclesiology 05:59 Paul's Instructions to Titus 18:22 Distributed Pastoral Leadership 23:22 Diverse Discipleship Communities 26:46 Q&A Session 27:50 Introduction to the Sessions 28:10 The Role of the Building 29:11 Centralization vs. Decentralization 29:53 Gathering Spaces and Their Use 33:41 House Churches and Accountability 38:16 Challenges and Solutions in House Churches 49:43 The Importance of Corporate Gatherings 57:18 Conclusion and Final Thoughts Get Discipleship.org's premium Podcast Feed: https://disciplemakerspodcast.supercast.com/  Check out the following eBooks from Discipleship.org: -- What Is Church? And How Important Is It?  https://discipleship.org/shop/what-is-church-and-how-important-is-it/ -- Family Discipleship Blueprint: A Year-by-Year Guide to Family Discipleship https://discipleship.org/shop/family-discipleship-blueprint-a-year-by-year-guide-to-family-discipleship/ -- Becoming a Disciple Maker https://discipleship.org/shop/becoming-a-disciple-maker/ -- National Study: The State of Disciple Making Churches: A 10 Minute Visual Guide https://discipleship.org/shop/national-study-the-state-of-disciple-making-churches-a-10-minute-visual-guide/ -- Reaching & Discipling Women: A Guide to Women's Ministry in Your Church https://discipleship.org/shop/reaching-discipling-women-a-guide-to-womens-ministry-in-your-church/ Check out the following Books from Discipleship.org: -- The Discipleship Gospel https://himpublications.com/product/the-discipleship-gospel/?utm_source=discipleship-org&utm_medium=website&utm_campaign=books-page -- Disciple-Making Culture https://himpublications.com/product/disciple-making-culture/ -- Recreated to Be like God: Making Disciples in the Image of Jesus https://a.co/d/6DDvUrC -- King Jesus and the Beauty of Obedience-Based Discipleship https://a.co/d/7d85z6T -- The Disciple Maker's Handbook: Seven Elements of a Discipleship Lifestyle https://a.co/d/4ZHIbQz Take the FREE Disciple Maker Assessment: https://church-multiplication.com/disciplemaker/ Come to the The National Disciple Making Forum: https://discipleship.org/national-disciple-making-forum/ Stay informed - Get our newsletter:  http://eepurl.com/hPViAr Listen - Disciple Maker's Podcast:  https://discipleship.org/resources/podcast/

    Resting and Disciple Making

    Play Episode Listen Later Jul 14, 2025 28:35


    Today's episode will help us understand the importance of rest and Sabbath in disciple-making, as well as the impact of burnout and how to counteract it through sustainable rhythms of life. Join Discipleship.org at one of our fall events: https://discipleship.org/one-day-events/    The Deeper Walk Experience | Franklin, TN | Aug. 15-16, 2025: https://deeperwalk.com/sp/dw-experience-franklin/  Discipling Men | Dallas, TX | Sept. 11, 2025: https://discipleship.org/one-day-events/dallas-2025-regional/  The Discipleship Gospel | Oceanside, CA | Oct. 9, 2025: https://discipleship.org/one-day-events/2025-west-coast-conference/  Check out Discipleship.org for resources on disciple-making: https://discipleship.org/resources/    Stay Informed - Get our newsletter: http://eepurl.com/hPViAr   The Importance of Sabbath: Finding Rest in Disciple-Making In this episode of the Disciple Maker Podcast, hosts Josh Howard and Jason Ishmael dive into a vital but often overlooked aspect of disciple-making: the practice of Sabbath. They share personal stories and insights on how incorporating rest and healthy rhythms into daily life can prevent burnout and lead to more sustainable ministry work. Drawing from both personal experiences and biblical principles, the hosts emphasize how taking regular Sabbaths can help maintain spiritual and mental health, foster deeper relationships, and ultimately strengthen one's ministry. Tune in to discover how to balance work and rest effectively and why this balance is crucial for a thriving disciple-making journey.   Get Discipleship.org's premium Podcast Feed: https://disciplemakerspodcast.supercast.com/    Key Takeaways  00:00 Introduction and Podcast Beginnings 01:03 The Importance of Sabbath in Ministry 03:00 Personal Testimony: Burnout and Recovery 06:12 Implementing Sabbath Practices 09:23 Cultural Rhythms and Work Ethics 11:31 Balancing Work and Rest in Ministry 14:39 Reflecting on Life Choices 15:24 The Unforced Rhythms of Grace 16:04 The Importance of Rest in Discipleship 17:03 Balancing Work and Rest 19:00 Sabbath as Resistance 19:52 Real-Life Examples of Sabbath 23:25 The Modern Pace of Life 26:12 Encouragement for Restful Living   Check out our Blogs: https://discipleship.org/blog/    Join us for our 2026 National Disciple Making Forum: https://discipleship.org/2026-national-disciple-making-forum/  See Below for a longer description: In this episode of the Disciple Maker Podcast, Josh Howard and Jason Ishmael humorously start off by discussing the challenges of kicking off the podcast seamlessly. They segue into an important discussion on Sabbath and rest. Josh shares his personal experience with burnout from a grueling work schedule in India, emphasizing the importance of regular rest to avoid mental, physical, and spiritual exhaustion. They highlight that Sabbath isn't just an Old Testament concept but essential for sustainable ministry and overall well-being. The need for ministry leaders and everyone to balance work and rest is underscored, promoting a lifestyle that counters societal pressures of constant busyness and productivity. By setting boundaries and maintaining healthy rhythms of life, Josh and Jason advocate for a balanced approach to ministry and personal life. The episode calls listeners to evaluate their own rest practices and integrate meaningful Sabbath practices to prevent burnout and enhance fulfillment and effectiveness in both life and ministry.

    Discipling Our Children

    Play Episode Listen Later Jul 7, 2025 32:26


    Get the free eBook – Family Discipleship Blueprint: A Year-by-Year Guide to Family Discipleship: https://discipleship.org/shop/family-discipleship-blueprint-a-year-by-year-guide-to-family-discipleship/   Today's episode will help us understand the importance of consistent, intentional time with our kids and how to model repentance and discipleship in everyday life. Join Discipleship.org at one of our fall events: https://discipleship.org/one-day-events/   The Deeper Walk Experience | Franklin, TN | Aug. 15-16, 2025: https://deeperwalk.com/sp/dw-experience-franklin/  Discipling Men | Dallas, TX | Sept. 11, 2025: https://discipleship.org/one-day-events/dallas-2025-regional/   The Discipleship Gospel | Oceanside, CA | Oct. 9, 2025: https://discipleship.org/one-day-events/2025-west-coast-conference/   Check out Discipleship.org for resources on disciple-making: https://discipleship.org/resources/  Stay Informed - Get our newsletter: http://eepurl.com/hPViAr  The Importance of Discipling Our Children | Disciple Makers Podcast In this episode of the Disciple Makers Podcast, hosts Josh Howard, Jason, and Ishmael dive into the crucial topic of discipling our children. They explore the significance of intentionality in parenting and how quality time equates to quantity time. The hosts share practical steps, such as setting up standing stones to remind children of God's works, as well as personal experiences and methods they use to disciple their own kids. They emphasize the importance of loving your spouse and confessing mistakes as key principles of discipleship. The episode concludes with an encouraging reminder that we are not alone in this journey—Jesus and the Holy Spirit are with us, helping us every step of the way. Get Discipleship.org's premium Podcast Feed: https://disciplemakerspodcast.supercast.com/   Key Takeaways  00:00 Introduction and Banter 00:53 Discipling Our Kids 02:56 The Importance of Intentionality 06:08 Loving Our Spouses Well 08:17 Confession and Repentance in Parenting 12:02 Making Up for Lost Time 13:18 Practical Tips for Intentional Parenting 18:44 Intentional Family Time 19:07 The Challenge of Consistency 19:59 Memorizing Scripture with Kids 20:56 The Importance of Saying Yes 25:08 Encouragement for Parents 26:10 Teaching Life Skills and Faith 28:49 The Role of the Holy Spirit in Parenting 30:58 Resources for Family Discipleship Check out our Blogs: https://discipleship.org/blog/   Join us for our 2026 National Disciple Making Forum: https://discipleship.org/2026-national-disciple-making-forum/   See Below for a longer description: So, spending consistent quality time with your kids matters a lot. I take my kids out, one-on-one, every week. It doesn't have to be anything fancy—sometimes, it's just ice cream or a car wash run with my daughter. Over time, these moments build strong relationships and make way for deeper conversations. Plus, we try to do family devotions and prayer time before bed. We're not perfect, but it's a constant effort. Absolutely. It's crucial to prioritize your kids and give them the best of you, not just what's left. Simple activities, like watching a favorite show together, can mean a lot. The key is to be present and make the most of these moments. Right. And it's never too late to start. Even if you've missed opportunities before, you can always begin now. Whether it's with your own kids, grandkids, or kids at church, just be intentional. God's grace covers it all, and He's more than willing to help us on this journey.

    Answering the Call to Make Disciples

    Play Episode Listen Later Jun 30, 2025 32:30


    Today's episode will help us understand how to maintain our spiritual 'saltiness' and 'light' by keeping our hearts pure and living lives that genuinely reflect Jesus' teachings. Join Discipleship.org at one of our fall events: https://discipleship.org/one-day-events/  The Deeper Walk Experience | Franklin, TN | Aug. 15-16, 2025: https://deeperwalk.com/sp/dw-experience-franklin/  Discipling Men | Dallas, TX | Sept. 11, 2025: https://discipleship.org/one-day-events/dallas-2025-regional/   The Discipleship Gospel | Oceanside, CA | Oct. 9, 2025: https://discipleship.org/one-day-events/2025-west-coast-conference/   Check out Discipleship.org for resources on disciple-making: https://discipleship.org/resources/   Stay Informed - Get our newsletter: http://eepurl.com/hPViAr  Get Lit, Stay Salty: The Power of Pure Discipleship Join us for an engaging episode of the Disciple Maker's Podcast, where Jason and Josh dive deep into the teachings of Jesus, focusing on the enduring relevance of being the salt of the earth and the light of the world. They explore the profound message in Matthew 5 about maintaining purity of heart and how impure salt loses its saltiness. The conversation connects Jesus' teachings to the mission of disciple-making, emphasizing the importance of a heart that is guarded and devoted to Christ. The discussion also highlights the transformative power of authentic encounters with Jesus and how genuine discipleship can positively impact society. Tune in for insightful, humorous, and spiritually enriching dialogue. Get Discipleship.org's premium Podcast Feed: https://disciplemakerspodcast.supercast.com/   Key Takeaways  00:00 Welcome to the Disciple Maker's Podcast 00:44 The Relevance of Jesus' Teachings Today 00:58 Understanding 'Salt of the Earth' 02:57 The Greek Phrase for 'Loses Its Saltiness' 03:57 The Stability of Pure Salt 07:04 Connecting Salt and Discipleship 09:13 Guarding the Heart in Modern Times 10:43 The Importance of Purity and Dependence on Jesus 13:57 Recovery and Regeneration 15:47 The Power of Confession and Regeneration 18:31 The Classic 'Poop in the Brownies' Illustration 21:50 Creating Thirst Through Saltiness 28:50 The Challenge to Be Salty and Bright 31:07 Final Blessing and Resources Check out our Blogs: https://discipleship.org/blog/   Join us for our 2026 National Disciple Making Forum: https://discipleship.org/2026-national-disciple-making-forum/   See Below for a longer description: In this episode of the Disciple Maker's Podcast, Jason and Josh dive into what it means to be effective disciples of Jesus Christ, focusing on His powerful metaphors of being the salt of the earth and the light of the world. They start with a light-hearted banter that transitions into the deeper purpose of Christian living, stressing how Jesus' teachings from 2000 years ago are still relevant and necessary today.   These metaphors come from Matthew 5, where Jesus tells us, “You are the salt of the earth” and “You are the light of the world.” Jason explains that the Greek phrase for salt losing its saltiness literally means salt that “plays the fool” or loses its purpose. He delves into the science of pure salt (NACL), which doesn't lose its saltiness unless mixed with impurities—similar to how a disciple loses their ‘flavor' when their heart isn't pure. They talk about keeping the heart pure, ensuring our impact remains strong. Josh adds humor by discussing the phrase “stay salty,” shifting to a serious note on how to maintain our ‘saltiness' through purity. Using the Dead Sea salt analogy, they stress that impurities can corrupt our faith. Josh highlights fears of losing our spiritual flavor and reassures listeners using Greek terminology to emphasize remaining undiluted. The duo moves into genuine discipleship and the importance of ongoing self-assessment and transparency. Josh discusses Re:generation, a community for overcoming struggles like insecurity and pride, not just addiction, encouraging open sharing for spiritual growth. Jason quotes Romans 7, reminding listeners of our inherent need for Jesus and the weakness in our human nature. This converts to positive action: depending on Jesus to maintain our spiritual 'saltiness.' Josh illustrates the necessity of keeping our hearts and daily activities pure by humorously describing a youth pastor's lesson involving brownies with ‘a special ingredient,' underscoring the impact of even minor impurities. Another key point is that salt produces thirst, and Christian living should evoke curiosity in others. They stress the need for Christians to stand out positively to create spiritual thirst in non-believers. The conversation mentions concerning statistics about issues within the church, like divorce and addiction, indicating a need for Christians to live distinct lives that truly reflect Jesus. Wrapping up, they challenge listeners to pray bold prayers, asking God to reveal and purify any impurities. They emphasize the importance of being filled with the Holy Spirit to maintain their impact on the world. The episode ends on a motivational note, calling for revival and active spread of Jesus' light and teachings.  

    Born to Reproduce. Made to Multiply

    Play Episode Listen Later Jun 23, 2025 28:55


    Get the Free eBook Becoming a Disciple Maker: https://discipleship.org/shop/becoming-a-disciple-maker/    Today's episode will help us tackle the three main barriers to spiritual reproduction—immaturity, sin, and lack of intimacy with Jesus—while learning to bloom where we are planted and passionately engage in disciple-making. Join Discipleship.org at one of our fall events: https://discipleship.org/one-day-events/  Stay Informed - Get our newsletter: http://eepurl.com/hPViAr   Born to Reproduce: The Call to Spiritual Multiplication   Join Jason Ishmael and Josh Howard in this episode of the Disciple Maker's Podcast as they delve into the transformative power of disciple-making. Josh shares his journey, inspired by a powerful sermon from Dawson Troutman, the founder of the Navigators, titled 'Born to Reproduce.' The conversation focuses on the importance of spiritual maturity, overcoming sin, and fostering intimacy with Jesus to effectively reproduce disciples. They encourage listeners to take immediate action, bloom where they're planted, and embrace the mission with joy and commitment. Tune in to be inspired and challenged to become a disciple who makes disciples, no matter your current season or circumstances.   Get Discipleship.org's premium Podcast Feed: https://disciplemakerspodcast.supercast.com/    Key Takeaways  00:00 Introduction and Welcome 00:22 The Disciple Maker's Box 01:09 The First Sermon That Changed Everything 03:38 Three Reasons for Spiritual Infertility 09:33 The Longing for Spiritual Reproduction 14:14 The Cost of Discipleship 15:00 The Struggles and Persistence of Success 15:30 Growing Where You're Planted 17:01 The Story of the Sunflower 20:16 Encouragement to Bloom in Unlikely Places 24:03 Invitation to Join Jesus' Mission 26:32 Final Words and Resources   Check out our Blogs: https://discipleship.org/blog/    Join us for our 2026 National Disciple Making Forum: https://discipleship.org/2026-national-disciple-making-forum/  See Below for a longer description: Welcome back, everyone! Today we're diving into the heart of disciple-making. In this episode, Josh shares how a sermon by Dawson Trotman called "Born to Reproduce" changed his life. His mentor, Coach Dave Craft, introduced him to this impactful message, which highlights three main hurdles to spiritual reproduction: immaturity, sin, and lack of intimacy with Jesus. First, immaturity. Sometimes we think we're mature, but if we're not reproducing disciples, we need to grow more spiritually. Second, sin. Disobedience acts like a spiritual disease, hindering us from making disciples. Lastly, lack of intimacy. Without a close relationship with Jesus, we can't bear spiritual fruit. Josh realized these barriers were holding him back and addressed them head-on, encouraging all of us to do the same. Jason chimed in, comparing the longing to make disciples to the deep desire couples have for children, urging us to be just as passionate. The discussion shifted to the idea of blooming where you're planted. No need to wait for perfect conditions! Josh shared an inspiring story about a sunflower thriving in an unlikely spot, emphasizing that we can flourish spiritually anywhere. Jason shared a story about his friend Tim Palmer, who started a business despite obstacles, illustrating that we should stay faithful and trust God's timing. The episode wraps with a call to action: say 'yes' to Jesus now and join Him in the mission. Let His joy and guidance lead you to make a real impact right where you are. Check out discipleship.org for more resources, and let's get to work making disciples! Bless you guys!

    Revival and Disciple Making

    Play Episode Listen Later Jun 16, 2025 33:12


    Get the free eBook – Revival Starts Here: https://discipleship.org/shop/revival-starts-here-primer/  Today's episode will help us recognize the historical patterns of revival, awaken a deeper hunger for God, and take practical steps to spiritually prepare for a movement of disciple-making in our time. Join Discipleship.org at one of our fall events: https://discipleship.org/one-day-events/  The Deeper Walk Experience | Franklin, TN | Aug. 15-16, 2025: https://deeperwalk.com/sp/dw-experience-franklin/  Discipling Men | Dallas, TX | Sept. 11, 2025: https://discipleship.org/one-day-events/dallas-2025-regional/  The Discipleship Gospel | Oceanside, CA | Oct. 9, 2025: https://discipleship.org/one-day-events/2025-west-coast-conference/  Check out Discipleship.org for resources on disciple-making: https://discipleship.org/resources/  Stay Informed - Get our newsletter: http://eepurl.com/hPViAr The Next Great Revival: How to Prepare for God's Powerful Move In this episode of The Disciple Maker Podcast, hosts Josh and Jason dive deep into the topic of revival. They explore historical revivals in America, discuss the cyclical pattern of these spiritual awakenings every 50 years, and dream about the possibility of a new revival in 2025. Through lively discussion and passionate storytelling, they emphasize the importance of prayer, fasting, and repentance as essential preparations for a mighty move of God. Join them as they call believers to wage war on lukewarm Christianity and become disciples who make disciples in anticipation of a fresh outpouring of the Holy Spirit. Get Discipleship.org's premium Podcast Feed: https://disciplemakerspodcast.supercast.com/  Key Takeaways  00:00 Welcome Back, Disciple Makers! 00:45 Introduction to Revival 01:56 Historical Revivals in America 04:44 The Pattern of Revival 06:38 Preparing for the Next Revival 07:21 Skepticism and Faith 10:11 Current Signs of Revival 11:19 Revival Ready: A Call to Action 15:00 The Power of Persistent Prayer 15:57 The Role of the Pastor in Revival 16:28 Stories of Revival and Conviction 19:07 Practical Steps for Church Leaders 20:13 Counting the Cost of Revival 25:14 The Importance of Repentance 26:34 Waging War on Lukewarm Christianity 31:24 A Call to Action for Revival Check out our Blogs: https://discipleship.org/blog/    Join us for our 2026 National Disciple Making Forum: https://discipleship.org/2026-national-disciple-making-forum/  See Below for a longer description: In this episode, Josh H and Jason I dive into revival—what it means, where we've seen it in history, and what it could look like today. Josh kicks things off by noting that listeners had asked for this topic, and he's eager to unpack it. They trace the major revival movements in American history, starting with the First Great Awakening around 300 years ago, led by Jonathan Edwards. They walk through the Second Great Awakening with Charles Finney and his intercessor Nash, and the revivals led by D.L. Moody and Billy Graham, all of which were marked by repentance and spiritual renewal. They land on the 1970s Jesus Revolution, which they say might be the last nationwide revival—exactly 50 years ago. Josh and Jason suggest this 50-year pattern may signal another wave is coming. While not predicting anything specific, they urge listeners to stay spiritually alert and ready. They share powerful stories, like two elderly sisters who prayed revival into their community during the Hebrides Revival—where even ships passing by felt the weight of God's presence. Jason emphasizes the need to be structurally and spiritually prepared for revival, drawing from Jesus' teaching about counting the cost before building. Both hosts agree: revival won't come without prayer, repentance, fasting, and a willingness to sacrifice. They also stress that revival must lead to disciple-making—not just emotional experiences, but long-term transformation. True revival, they argue, involves everyone, not just a few leaders. The episode ends with a challenge: join the growing movement of prayer and fasting through Discipleship.org and prepare your heart and community for what God might do next.

    Facing Pitfalls in Disciple-Making

    Play Episode Listen Later Jun 9, 2025 32:34


    Today's episode will help us face sin and temptation with honesty, accountability, and reliance on the Holy Spirit so we can grow as disciples and make disciples who walk in freedom.   Join Discipleship.org at one of our fall events: https://discipleship.org/one-day-events/    The Deeper Walk Experience | Franklin, TN | Aug. 15-16, 2025: https://deeperwalk.com/sp/dw-experience-franklin/    Discipling Men | Dallas, TX | Sept. 11, 2025: https://discipleship.org/one-day-events/dallas-2025-regional/    The Discipleship Gospel | Oceanside, CA | Oct. 9, 2025: https://discipleship.org/one-day-events/2025-west-coast-conference/    Check out Discipleship.org for resources on disciple-making: https://discipleship.org/resources/    Stay Informed - Get our newsletter: http://eepurl.com/hPViAr   Overcoming Temptation in Discipleship: Strategies and Insights   In this episode of the Disciple Makers Podcast, hosts Josh Howard and Jason Ishmael delve into the common pitfalls in the journey of disciple making, with a focus on overcoming temptation and sin. They emphasize the importance of creating safe spaces for confession, addressing habitual sin early, and relying on the power of the Holy Spirit and the Word of God. The episode highlights practical steps for fostering genuine, accountable discipleship relationships, and offers insights into how to empower disciples to conquer sin with divine help. Tune in for valuable strategies to strengthen your disciple-making efforts and personal faith journey.   Get Discipleship.org's premium Podcast Feed: https://disciplemakerspodcast.supercast.com/    Key Takeaways  00:00 Welcome and Introductions 00:37 Discussing Pitfalls in Disciple Making 01:43 Addressing Temptation and Sin 03:45 The Importance of Confession and Accountability 09:05 Creating Safe Spaces for Openness 13:27 The Baby Dragon Analogy 14:20 The Importance of Early Confession 15:14 The Enemy's Intent and Church Culture 16:39 Discipleship and Dragon Slaying 18:59 The Power of the Holy Spirit 19:50 Misinterpretation of Scripture 22:26 Heeding Warnings and God's Deliverance 25:24 The Role of the Holy Spirit in Conviction 28:49 Encouragement and Consistent Rhythms 30:16 Final Thoughts and Invitation   Check out our Blogs: https://discipleship.org/blog/    Join us for our 2026 National Disciple Making Forum: https://discipleship.org/2026-national-disciple-making-forum/  See Below for a longer description: In this episode of the Disciple Makers Podcast, hosts Josh Howard and Jason Ishmael dive into a real and often overlooked challenge in disciple-making: dealing with sin and temptation. The episode kicks off with some light banter, but quickly shifts to a deep, honest conversation about the struggles that come with following Jesus—and helping others do the same. Facing the Hard Stuff Josh opens by naming the elephant in the room: temptation is part of life, even in ministry. While it's tempting (no pun intended) to focus only on wins and high points, the guys make it clear—ignoring sin doesn't make it go away. In fact, it makes things worse. Confronting it directly is key to personal integrity and faithful disciple-making. Everyone Struggles—Even Jesus Was Tempted Drawing from Hebrews, they remind us that even Jesus faced temptation. That truth doesn't excuse sin—it encourages us. If He faced it and overcame, we can lean on Him in our fight too. Disciple-making isn't about being perfect, but about staying honest and dependent on Jesus. Don't Go It Alone Jason pushes back on the myth of solo Christianity. Isolation is dangerous, especially when struggling with sin. They paint a biblical picture of community—like the body, vine and branches, shepherd and sheep—where honest relationships offer support, accountability, and light in dark places. Confession Brings Healing Confession isn't just a religious duty—it's a path to healing (James 5). The hosts use a striking image: sins are like baby dragons. Small at first, but dangerous if fed and hidden. Naming them early—through confession and accountability—stops them from taking over. Practical Tools for Disciple-Makers Josh and Jason share some simple but powerful practices: Safe Spaces: Create environments where people can share struggles without fear of judgment. Early Confession: Address sin before it grows into something bigger. Regular Reflection: Stay in step with God by confessing quickly and often. Rely on the Holy Spirit and Scripture They caution against white-knuckling your way through temptation. Instead, rely on the Holy Spirit and God's Word. Drawing from 1 Corinthians 10, they remind listeners that God always provides a way out. Around the world, disciple-making movements thrive when Scripture is the foundation and the Spirit is the guide. God's Word Transforms They emphasize that lasting change comes from God—not effort alone. When we stay rooted in Scripture and invite the Spirit to search our hearts, He brings conviction and real transformation. The goal isn't behavior management; it's presence-driven change led by Jesus. No Sin Too Small—or Too Big When it comes to cultural issues like sexual sin, they caution against playing favorites with sins. All sin separates. The best approach? Get people into the presence of Jesus and let the Holy Spirit do the heavy lifting. Encouragement to Apply They close by encouraging listeners to keep it simple: read Scripture, listen to the Spirit, confess quickly, and stay connected. Disciple-making happens when people walk in honesty, grace, and dependence on God—together. Takeaway: Sin and temptation are part of the journey—but they don't have to derail it. Through confession, accountability, and the power of the Spirit, disciple-makers can walk in freedom and help others do the same.

    Overcoming Pride in Ministry

    Play Episode Listen Later Jun 2, 2025 39:00


    Join Discipleship.org at one of our fall events: https://discipleship.org/one-day-events/    The Deeper Walk Experience | Franklin, TN | Aug. 15-16, 2025: https://deeperwalk.com/sp/dw-experience-franklin/    Discipling Men | Dallas, TX | Sept. 11, 2025: https://discipleship.org/one-day-events/dallas-2025-regional/    The Discipleship Gospel | Oceanside, CA | Oct. 9, 2025: https://discipleship.org/one-day-events/2025-west-coast-conference/    Check out Discipleship.org for resources on disciple-making: https://discipleship.org/resources/  Today's episode will help us recognize the subtle dangers of pride in ministry, embrace humility, and refocus our efforts on pointing people to Jesus, not ourselves. Stay Informed - Get our newsletter: http://eepurl.com/hPViAr Overcoming Pride in Ministry | Disciple Makers Podcast In this episode of the Disciple Makers Podcast, join hosts Jason and Josh as they tackle the insidious pitfalls of pride and ego in ministry. Sharing personal stories of struggles and revelations, they explore the dangers of becoming self-reliant and the importance of maintaining a humble spirit. With insights from scripture and their own experiences, they emphasize the necessity of lifting up Jesus rather than ourselves, making Him the focal point of our mission. This episode is a must-listen for anyone dedicated to being a true disciple of Christ, striving to avoid the traps of pride while faithfully serving God's kingdom.   Get Discipleship.org's premium Podcast Feed: https://disciplemakerspodcast.supercast.com/    Key Takeaways  00:00 Introduction and Clickbait Confession 00:19 Discussing Pitfalls in Ministry 01:31 The Dangers of Pride and Ego 04:02 Personal Stories of Humility 06:29 Lessons from Early Ministry Experiences 09:55 The Importance of Humility in Ministry 13:52 Balancing Ambition and Calling 19:45 Preaching Christ Despite Challenges 20:08 Economic Hardships and Church Reflections 21:10 Serving the Bride of Christ 23:01 The Importance of Humility in Ministry 25:13 Personal Struggles and Divine Realizations 30:28 The Call to Make Jesus the Big Deal 36:45 Final Thoughts and Encouragement   Check out our Blogs: https://discipleship.org/blog/    Join us for our 2026 National Disciple Making Forum: https://discipleship.org/2026-national-disciple-making-forum/  See Below for a longer description: In this episode of the Disciple Makers Podcast, Josh and Jason dive into one of the most dangerous traps in ministry—pride—and why humility is essential for every disciple of Jesus. It kicks off with a lighthearted bit about clickbait but quickly shifts into a deep, honest conversation about how pride creeps in and distorts our calling. Starting Real Josh jokingly suggests they confess their worst sins, which opens the door for a vulnerable talk about their personal struggles with pride. They both share how easy it is to be deceived by pride—especially in ministry—because it often shows up looking like confidence or competence, but slowly shifts us away from dependence on God. The Deceptive Power of Pride They reflect on how pride convinces us we don't need God. Josh quotes James 4:6: “God opposes the proud but gives grace to the humble,” and they agree that pride distorts reality, making us think we're doing God's work when we're really just building our own platforms. Josh points to John the Baptist's words—“He must increase, I must decrease”—as a powerful reminder of the posture God desires. Learning the Hard Way Josh shares a story from his early ministry days when success went to his head—until a disastrous sermon reminded him he needed God's presence, not just his own talent. Since then, he's adopted a practice of taking off his shoes before preaching as a symbolic reminder of holy ground and humility. Jason shares his own wake-up call—realizing that ambition disguised as vision had become about personal achievement. Pastoring a small church taught him that impact isn't measured in numbers but in faithfulness. Humility in Action Later in the episode, they talk about what true humility looks like in ministry. Josh says the goal isn't to make followers of ourselves—it's to point people to Jesus. Jason emphasizes that when Jesus is the center, the Gospel stays front and center too. They also reflect on grace—not just as an idea, but as the active presence of God that flows through the humble. Jason notes that God works through those who get low, not those who chase applause. Practical Wisdom To wrap things up, they offer practical ways to fight pride: stay rooted in Scripture, don't chase originality for the sake of ego, and constantly boast in Christ, not self. It's not about being clever—it's about being faithful. Final Thoughts Josh closes by reminding listeners that pride makes ministry about you, but real discipleship is about making much of Jesus. They encourage everyone to stay humble, stay centered on Christ, and check out more resources at discipleship.org.

    Finding Light in Darkness

    Play Episode Listen Later May 26, 2025 37:40


    Today's episode will help us face discouragement and depression with honesty, discover hope through faith, and find practical steps toward healing and spiritual resilience. Join Discipleship.org at one of our fall events: The Deeper Walk Experience | Franklin, TN | Aug. 15-16, 2025: https://deeperwalk.com/sp/dw-experience-franklin/  Discipling Men | Dallas, TX | Sept. 11, 2025: https://discipleship.org/one-day-events/dallas-2025-regional/ The Discipleship Gospel | Oceanside, CA | Oct. 9, 2025: https://discipleship.org/one-day-events/2025-west-coast-conference/    Check out Discipleship.org for resources on disciple-making: https://discipleship.org/resources/  Stay Informed - Get our newsletter: http://eepurl.com/hPViAr   Navigating Discouragement and Finding Hope in Jesus | Disciple Maker's Podcast In this episode of the Disciple Maker's Podcast, the hosts dive deep into the challenges of dealing with discouragement, depression, and anxiety. Through personal anecdotes and biblical examples, they discuss the importance of lifting one's eyes towards Jesus during tough seasons. They share practical tips for overcoming these struggles, including the power of speaking life, the importance of community, and the positive impact of medication. The hosts also highlight the transformative power of hope, as illustrated through the stories of Elijah, the Israelites, and Jesus. Join us for an encouraging conversation on finding hope and strength in the midst of trials. Get Discipleship.org's premium Podcast Feed: https://disciplemakerspodcast.supercast.com/    Key Takeaways  00:00 Introduction and Voice Confusion 01:09 Discussing Success and Discouragement 01:57 Biblical Examples of Discouragement 02:54 Personal Stories of Struggle 04:06 A Poem of Despair and Hope 07:58 Encouragement and Hope in Difficult Times 11:25 Resurrecting Hope Through Biblical Imagery 20:12 Finding Hope in Times of Discouragement 20:43 Personal Testimony of Overcoming Depression 21:21 The Impact of Our Struggles on Loved Ones 31:10 Encouragement and Practical Tips 36:21 Final Words of Encouragement and Resources   Check out our Blogs: https://discipleship.org/blog/ Join us for our 2026 National Disciple Making Forum: https://discipleship.org/2026-national-disciple-making-forum/    See Below for a longer description: They reflect on how this experience isn't new—pointing to Elijah, who crashed emotionally right after his greatest spiritual victory. They also draw from Jesus' time in the desert, showing how even the hardest seasons can be a setup for deeper spiritual power and clarity. One of the most moving moments is when Josh reads a poem he wrote at 2 AM during one of his lowest points, titled My Soul in the Town of Bethany. It's raw, honest, and full of longing—and yet, it ends with hope, echoing the resurrection theme so central to the Gospel. Josh shares the steps he took to find healing: daily affirmations, professional counseling, medication, and leaning into community—even when he didn't feel like it. He also reads a touching letter from his wife, shedding light on how depression affects not just individuals but entire families. Throughout the episode, Josh and Jason emphasize that it's okay to not be okay—and that God often does His deepest work in our darkest hours. They encourage listeners to stay connected, seek help, and hold on to hope, because the desert isn't the end of the story. Bottom Line: This episode is for anyone who's ever felt spiritually drained, emotionally stuck, or just plain worn out. Josh and Jason don't sugarcoat the struggle, but they point to a God who meets us in the middle of it—and leads us out with purpose.

    Be A Living Sacrifice for Today's Church

    Play Episode Listen Later May 19, 2025 46:22


    Check out Discipleship.org for resources on disciple-making: https://discipleship.org/resources/  Today's episode will help us move from self-reliance to Spirit-empowered living by embracing daily surrender and rediscovering the power of the Holy Spirit in our walk with Jesus. Stay Informed - Get our newsletter: http://eepurl.com/hPViAr   Empowering Every Believer: Activating the Priesthood of All Believers - Disciple Maker's Podcast Ep. 7   Unlocking the Power of the Holy Spirit: A Call to Bold Witness and Total Surrender   In this impactful episode, Josh Howard and Jason dive deep into the significance of the Holy Spirit in the life of a believer. They discuss the challenges modern Christians face, including the startling statistic that 98% of Christians in America never share their faith outside of their immediate families. They highlight two main problems: the lack of witnessing and the often forgotten role of the Holy Spirit in many churches. Through scriptural examples, particularly from the Book of Acts, they showcase the transformative power of the Holy Spirit and the necessity of full surrender and consecration to experience true spiritual empowerment. They argue that without daily dying to oneself and being filled afresh with the Spirit, believers cannot effectively witness or make disciples. The conversation underscores the critical need for revival and a personal challenge to be a true burnt offering for God's glory. Join them in a heartfelt prayer of surrender, and take the first steps toward becoming a vessel for the Spirit's power in your life.   Get Discipleship.org's premium Podcast Feed: https://disciplemakerspodcast.supercast.com/    Key Takeaways    00:00 Introduction and Setting the Stage 00:52 The Role of the Holy Spirit in the Church 03:01 The Power of Witnessing and the Holy Spirit 05:57 Daily Surrender and Empowerment 12:18 Living Sacrifice and Community Support 22:35 The Demands of Discipleship 23:14 The Reasonableness of Total Surrender 24:27 Living as a Burnt Offering 30:02 The Power of the Holy Spirit 32:17 A Call to Radical Transformation 37:42 Prayer of Surrender 45:00 Final Thoughts and Encouragement   Check out our Blogs: https://discipleship.org/blog/  See Below for a longer description: Podcast Recap: S3 Ep. 2 – Life in the Spirit In this episode, Jason and Josh dive into a real, honest conversation about what it means to live a life empowered by the Holy Spirit. They go back and forth between light-hearted banter and weighty truths, creating a natural rhythm that feels both grounded and inspiring. They kick things off with a laugh, joking about how hard it can be to start episodes smoothly—before easing into the heart of the conversation. The big focus? The Church's need to make more room for the Holy Spirit—not just in Sunday services, but in everyday life. Jason shares how some churches unintentionally sideline the Spirit, joking about the tendency to worship “God the Father, God the Son, and God the Holy Bible.” Josh jumps in to remind us that real power—boldness, witness, and transformation—comes from the Holy Spirit. They unpack Acts 1:8, where Jesus tells His followers they'll receive power when the Holy Spirit comes. Josh points out a sobering stat: 98% of American Christians never share their faith outside their family. The answer isn't trying harder—it's surrendering deeper. Josh describes how the disciples went from hiding in fear to boldly preaching the gospel after being filled with the Spirit. He draws from Romans to say the same power that raised Jesus now lives in us—meaning we're equipped for far more than we realize. A key theme in the episode is daily surrender. Josh shares a vivid metaphor: believers “leak,” so we need to keep coming back for a fresh filling. They talk about how true revival starts when we lay ourselves down—day after day—like living sacrifices. They also explore the idea that you can't have Pentecost without Calvary. In other words, the power of the Spirit comes through death to self. Drawing on Old Testament sacrifices, they paint a picture of what it means to live fully surrendered—acknowledging our tendency, like a goat, to crawl off the altar. Community plays a big role here too. Josh emphasizes how we need each other to keep living that surrendered life—through encouragement, accountability, and prayer. Toward the end, they call out how the Western Church often gets caught up in debates and performance, losing sight of the simple, powerful truth: Jesus rose, and His Spirit lives in us. They warn against letting the flesh take the lead again and call for a return to Spirit-led living. The episode wraps with lyrics from a Casting Crowns song that challenge superficial faith and call for genuine heart change. It's a fitting close to a conversation all about real transformation—from the inside out. Jason and Josh finish with a heartfelt prayer, asking for the Spirit's guidance, power, and presence to shape every part of our lives. Bottom line: If you're hungry for deeper discipleship and lasting impact, it all starts with surrender—and the Holy Spirit is ready to lead the way.

    Training and Equipping Disciples

    Play Episode Listen Later May 12, 2025 41:04


    Reviving the Region In this episode of the Disciple Maker's Podcast, we explore Acts Chapter 19, drawing modern parallels from Paul's ministry in Ephesus. Hosts discuss the concept of a 'Hall of Tyrannus' in the contemporary church, where believers are trained and equipped for radical discipleship and city-wide gospel saturation. Tune in for a powerful vision on how to create movement engines alongside traditional church models to achieve regional revival and reach the nations with the gospel of Jesus Christ. 00:00 Introduction and Opening Remarks 01:34 Discussing Acts Chapter 19 02:17 Paul's Ministry in Ephesus 11:10 Modern Parallels to Paul's Ministry 21:56 The Power of Parallel Tracks in Church Growth 23:09 Embracing Control vs. Movement of God 23:37 The Role of Doctrine and Fear in Church Leadership 25:04 The Importance of Multiplication and Discipleship 29:40 Encouragement for Aspiring Disciple Makers 35:27 The Vision for a Modern Hall of Tyrannus Get Discipleship.org's premium Podcast Feed: https://disciplemakerspodcast.supercast.com/  Check out the following eBooks from Discipleship.org: -- What Is Church? And How Important Is It?  https://discipleship.org/shop/what-is-church-and-how-important-is-it/ -- Family Discipleship Blueprint: A Year-by-Year Guide to Family Discipleship https://discipleship.org/shop/family-discipleship-blueprint-a-year-by-year-guide-to-family-discipleship/ -- Becoming a Disciple Maker https://discipleship.org/shop/becoming-a-disciple-maker/ -- National Study: The State of Disciple Making Churches: A 10 Minute Visual Guide https://discipleship.org/shop/national-study-the-state-of-disciple-making-churches-a-10-minute-visual-guide/ -- Reaching & Discipling Women: A Guide to Women's Ministry in Your Church https://discipleship.org/shop/reaching-discipling-women-a-guide-to-womens-ministry-in-your-church/ Check out the following Books from Discipleship.org: -- The Discipleship Gospel https://himpublications.com/product/the-discipleship-gospel/?utm_source=discipleship-org&utm_medium=website&utm_campaign=books-page -- Disciple-Making Culture https://himpublications.com/product/disciple-making-culture/ -- Recreated to Be like God: Making Disciples in the Image of Jesus https://a.co/d/6DDvUrC -- King Jesus and the Beauty of Obedience-Based Discipleship https://a.co/d/7d85z6T -- The Disciple Maker's Handbook: Seven Elements of a Discipleship Lifestyle https://a.co/d/4ZHIbQz Take the FREE Disciple Maker Assessment: https://church-multiplication.com/disciplemaker/ Come to the The National Disciple Making Forum: https://discipleship.org/national-disciple-making-forum/ Stay informed - Get our newsletter:  http://eepurl.com/hPViAr Listen - Disciple Maker's Podcast:  https://discipleship.org/resources/podcast/

    Celebrating Discipleship: The Unseen Scorecard

    Play Episode Listen Later May 5, 2025 30:39


    Reinventing the Scorecard: Principles for Effective Disciple Making Welcome to the final episode of our series on the 10 principles of disciple making! In this episode, we celebrate your journey so far and dive into the crucial topic of reinventing the scorecard for disciple making. We discuss the traditional ways churches have measured success, such as attendance and donations, and why these metrics may not fully capture the essence of true disciple making. We explore the importance of tracking 'controllable' like sharing faith and prayer, versus 'uncontrollable' like conversions and baptisms. The conversation also delves into real-world examples from churches and movements worldwide, including impressive results from India. Whether you're looking to transform how success is measured in your church or seeking inspiration for personal disciple-making efforts, this episode offers valuable insights and practical advice. Join us for an enlightening session that aims to help you and your community flourish in disciple making! Key Takeaways  00:00 Introduction and Applause 01:23 Recap of the 10 Principles Series 01:49 Reinventing the Scorecard 02:13 Traditional Metrics in Churches 03:38 The Importance of Tracking Disciple Making 05:39 Examples of Effective Scorecards 08:50 Generational Growth and Multiplication 10:01 Celebrating the Right Metrics 11:32 Personal Experiences and Observations 14:22 Apprenticeship and Measuring Success 14:52 Controllable vs. Uncontrollable Metrics 16:15 Personal Responsibility in Faith 20:05 Creating a Movement Maker Factory 23:02 Evaluating Church Success 26:16 Generosity and Accountability in Discipleship 27:36 Reaching the Unchurched 29:16 Final Thoughts and Resources Get Discipleship.org's premium Podcast Feed: https://disciplemakerspodcast.supercast.com/  Check out the following eBooks from Discipleship.org: -- What Is Church? And How Important Is It?  https://discipleship.org/shop/what-is-church-and-how-important-is-it/ -- Family Discipleship Blueprint: A Year-by-Year Guide to Family Discipleship https://discipleship.org/shop/family-discipleship-blueprint-a-year-by-year-guide-to-family-discipleship/ -- Becoming a Disciple Maker https://discipleship.org/shop/becoming-a-disciple-maker/ -- National Study: The State of Disciple Making Churches: A 10 Minute Visual Guide https://discipleship.org/shop/national-study-the-state-of-disciple-making-churches-a-10-minute-visual-guide/ -- Reaching & Discipling Women: A Guide to Women's Ministry in Your Church https://discipleship.org/shop/reaching-discipling-women-a-guide-to-womens-ministry-in-your-church/ Check out the following Books from Discipleship.org: -- The Discipleship Gospel https://himpublications.com/product/the-discipleship-gospel/?utm_source=discipleship-org&utm_medium=website&utm_campaign=books-page -- Disciple-Making Culture https://himpublications.com/product/disciple-making-culture/ -- Recreated to Be like God: Making Disciples in the Image of Jesus https://a.co/d/6DDvUrC -- King Jesus and the Beauty of Obedience-Based Discipleship https://a.co/d/7d85z6T -- The Disciple Maker's Handbook: Seven Elements of a Discipleship Lifestyle https://a.co/d/4ZHIbQz Take the FREE Disciple Maker Assessment: https://church-multiplication.com/disciplemaker/ Come to the The National Disciple Making Forum: https://discipleship.org/national-disciple-making-forum/ Stay informed - Get our newsletter:  http://eepurl.com/hPViAr Listen - Disciple Maker's Podcast:  https://discipleship.org/resources/podcast/

    Simple, Effective, and Reproducible Disciple Making Practices

    Play Episode Listen Later Apr 28, 2025 37:40


    Simple, Effective, and Reproducible: Core Disciple Making Tools & Laser Focus | Disciple Maker's Podcast Join us on the Disciple Maker's Podcast as we dive deep into two essential principles for fostering disciple-making cultures: utilizing simple, effective, and reproducible tools and maintaining laser focus on the mission of making disciples who make disciples. Hosts Jason Ishmael and Josh explore the significance of these principles, share practical examples, and discuss a pathway for training others. They also touch on the broader impact of disciple-making and how it can transform communities. Whether you're a church leader or a passionate disciple, this episode offers valuable insights to boost your disciple-making efforts. Don't miss out! Stay Informed - Get our newsletter: http://eepurl.com/hPViAr Key Takeaways  00:00 Introduction and Welcome 01:12 Series Overview: 10 Core Disciple Making Principles 01:49 Principle 8: Simple, Effective, and Reproducible Tools 02:42 Importance of Simplicity in Disciple Making 05:35 Practical Examples and Tools 08:59 The Apprenticeship Pathway 13:22 Effective Training and Reproducibility 17:05 Overcoming Fear in Discipleship 17:20 The Seven Commands of Christ 18:01 Evaluating and Using Effective Tools 18:43 Laser Focus in Disciple Making 21:25 Training the Saved and Saving the Lost 27:52 Leveraging Ministries for Disciple Making 30:13 The Kingdom Impact of Disciple Making 33:21 Avoiding Distractions and Staying Focused 36:35 Conclusion and Resources Get Discipleship.org's premium Podcast Feed: https://disciplemakerspodcast.supercast.com/  Check out the following eBooks from Discipleship.org: -- What Is Church? And How Important Is It?  https://discipleship.org/shop/what-is-church-and-how-important-is-it/ -- Family Discipleship Blueprint: A Year-by-Year Guide to Family Discipleship https://discipleship.org/shop/family-discipleship-blueprint-a-year-by-year-guide-to-family-discipleship/ -- Becoming a Disciple Maker https://discipleship.org/shop/becoming-a-disciple-maker/ -- National Study: The State of Disciple Making Churches: A 10 Minute Visual Guide https://discipleship.org/shop/national-study-the-state-of-disciple-making-churches-a-10-minute-visual-guide/ -- Reaching & Discipling Women: A Guide to Women's Ministry in Your Church https://discipleship.org/shop/reaching-discipling-women-a-guide-to-womens-ministry-in-your-church/ Check out the following Books from Discipleship.org: -- The Discipleship Gospel https://himpublications.com/product/the-discipleship-gospel/?utm_source=discipleship-org&utm_medium=website&utm_campaign=books-page -- Disciple-Making Culture https://himpublications.com/product/disciple-making-culture/ -- Recreated to Be like God: Making Disciples in the Image of Jesus https://a.co/d/6DDvUrC -- King Jesus and the Beauty of Obedience-Based Discipleship https://a.co/d/7d85z6T -- The Disciple Maker's Handbook: Seven Elements of a Discipleship Lifestyle https://a.co/d/4ZHIbQz Take the FREE Disciple Maker Assessment: https://church-multiplication.com/disciplemaker/ Come to the The National Disciple Making Forum: https://discipleship.org/national-disciple-making-forum/ Stay informed - Get our newsletter:  http://eepurl.com/hPViAr Listen - Disciple Maker's Podcast:  https://discipleship.org/resources/podcast/

    Equip and Release the Priesthood of All Believers

    Play Episode Listen Later Apr 21, 2025 30:36


    Join us at the 2025 National Disciple Making Forum: https://discipleship.org/national-disciple-making-forum/    Check out Discipleship.org for resources on disciple-making: https://discipleship.org/resources/    Today's episode will help us understand how to activate the priesthood of all believers and empower everyday people to step into their God-given calling.   Stay Informed - Get our newsletter: http://eepurl.com/hPViAr   Empowering Every Believer: Activating the Priesthood of All Believers - Disciple Maker's Podcast Ep. 7   In this episode of the Disciple Maker's Podcast, hosts dive into the seventh principle of disciple making – the equipping and releasing of the priesthood of all believers. Drawing from studies by Bobby Harrington and insights from Ephesians 4, they emphasize the importance of lowering the bar for entry into ministry while increasing support and accountability. The discussion highlights the need to break down the professional laity divide, allowing everyone to participate fully in God's work. Personal anecdotes illustrate how ordinary individuals, regardless of their backgrounds or roles, can be used powerfully by God. The episode closes with a call to action for both church leaders and individual believers to embrace their roles in the Kingdom and equip others to do the same.   Get Discipleship.org's premium Podcast Feed: https://disciplemakerspodcast.supercast.com/    Key Takeaways    00:00 Welcome Back to The Disciple Maker's Podcast 00:36 Introduction to Disciple Making Principles 01:12 Principle #7: Equipping and Releasing the Priesthood 01:51 The Shift from Old Covenant to New 02:46 Breaking Down Professional Ministry 04:35 Practical Steps for Church Leaders 06:12 Encouraging and Empowering Believers 06:37 Personal Testimonies and Experiences 11:32 The Importance of Speaking Life into Others 12:20 Early Preaching Experiences 13:58 The Rat Trap Illustration 14:25 Early Preaching Experiences 14:57 Mentorship and Opportunities 15:49 Equipping and Releasing the Priesthood 18:11 Lowering the Bar of Entry 18:21 Personal Responsibility in Ministry 19:31 Empowering Individuals for Ministry 24:33 The Power of God in Everyone 26:41 Encouraging Initiative in Ministry 29:34 Conclusion and Resources   Check out our Blogs: https://discipleship.org/blog/  See Below for a longer description: The episode kicks off with Josh and Jason having some fun, channeling their inner newscasters as they introduce The Disciple Maker's Podcast. Right away, they hit on the heart of the conversation: the Church isn't just for professionals — every believer is called and equipped to take part in the mission. This episode dives into one of the ten core disciple-making principles: activating the priesthood of all believers, a concept drawn from Bobby Harrington and Discipleship.org. Josh and Jason unpack how the Church often sidelines most people, treating ministry like a spectator sport — a few “professionals” on the court, while the rest just watch from the stands. But Jesus calls everyone to get in the game, and the Holy Spirit gives us all what we need to play. They explore the shift from the Old Covenant, where only priests (Levites) had access to God, to the New Covenant — where all believers are invited to serve and represent Him directly. It's a powerful reminder that ministry isn't reserved for a select few. Josh also highlights the common “professional vs. laity” gap in churches and argues for lowering the barriers so anyone can step into ministry, with the right support and accountability along the way. He shares his own story — starting as a nervous, underprepared teenager giving his first sermon with a makeshift object lesson — and how mentors spotted potential and gave him room to grow. That experience shaped his path and reinforced the power of empowering others before they feel “ready.” Josh and Jason also push church leaders to create meaningful opportunities beyond simple Sunday roles like handing out bulletins. The goal? Equip people to share the gospel and make disciples, not just fill a slot. One story really drives this home: Josh tells of a woman in his church who felt called to serve in nursing homes. When she asked if she needed permission, Josh simply told her to go for it — God had already called her. They wrap up by encouraging leaders to remove obstacles, invest in people, and hold them accountable as they step into ministry — because when the Church unleashes the priesthood of all believers, lives change. Josh closes with a reminder: the same Spirit that raised Jesus lives in every believer, so there's no need to wait for permission. He invites listeners to check out resources at Discipleship.org and teases the next episode, where the conversation will continue  

    Scripture as the Curriculum

    Play Episode Listen Later Apr 14, 2025 31:09


    Join us at the 2025 National Disciple Making Forum: https://discipleship.org/national-disciple-making-forum/  Check out Discipleship.org for resources on disciple-making: https://discipleship.org/resources/  Today's episode will talk about scripture as the core of disciple-making by showing how simple obedience to God's Word—guided by the Holy Spirit—can transform lives and communities. Stay Informed - Get our newsletter: http://eepurl.com/hPViAr Disciple Maker's Podcast: The Power of Scripture in Disciple Making Join us on the Disciple Maker's Podcast as we dive into the sixth principle of disciple making: making Scripture the central curriculum. Hosts Jason Ishmael and Josh Howard explore the significance of using the Bible as the primary source for disciple making, highlighting the transformative power of reading, studying, and obeying God's word. They discuss the simplicity and effectiveness of Discovery Bible Study, a method used globally to facilitate deeper understanding and application of Scripture. Packed with practical insights and heartfelt discussions, this episode challenges listeners to reassess the role of the Bible in their lives and ministries. Don't miss this deep dive into how Scripture can be a game changer in disciple making movements worldwide. Get Discipleship.org's premium Podcast Feed: https://disciplemakerspodcast.supercast.com/  Key Takeaways  00:00 Welcome to the Disciple Maker's Podcast 01:09 Introduction to the 10 Principles of Disciple Making 01:31 Scripture as the Core Curriculum 02:44 The Power and Authority of Scripture 03:29 Challenges in Modern Disciple Making 04:26 The Importance of Obedience to Scripture 05:19 Practical Applications in Disciple Making 07:15 Reevaluating the Role of Scripture 07:48 Personal Reflections and Experiences 15:52 The Goal of Discipleship 16:29 Introduction to Jim Dugan and Hacksaw 16:41 Understanding the Text in First Corinthians 17:08 The Power of Insight and the Holy Spirit 19:35 Discovery Bible Study: A Simple and Effective Tool 21:48 The Four Key Questions of Discovery Bible Study 23:45 Global Impact and Importance of Scripture 26:34 Final Thoughts and Encouragement Check out our Blogs: https://discipleship.org/blog/  See Below for a longer description: In this episode, Josh and Jason dig into the sixth key principle of disciple-making: using scripture as the primary curriculum. They argue that the Bible, guided by the Holy Spirit, is all we need to make disciples—and that real transformation happens when we don't just study it, but actually obey it. Scripture as the Curriculum: They challenge the idea that extra curriculum is necessary. Josh makes it clear: disciple-making movements around the world stick to scripture, and it works—because the Spirit is the true teacher. Misuse and Misunderstanding: Jason calls out how people often twist scripture to back up their own opinions, rather than letting it speak for itself. He warns against treating the Bible like a suggestion box, a habit influenced by overly rational approaches from past centuries. Obedience Matters: Reading the Bible isn't the goal—living it out is. The hosts point to Jesus' parable of the wise and foolish builders as a reminder that hearing without doing leads nowhere. Keeping It Simple: Jason shares a story about leading a study in Colossians where he got caught up in sounding smart, but realized deep insights didn't lead to actual discipleship. Sometimes, less is more. Discovery Bible Study (DBS): They're big fans of DBS—a simple, powerful tool used globally. Four questions guide the study: What does this teach us about God? What does it teach us about people? How can we obey it? Who can we share it with? Practical Steps: The guys offer ideas for churches and individuals to make scripture central again—like doing regular, communal scripture studies using the DBS method. A Global Perspective: Josh wraps up with stories of believers around the world who cling to scripture despite persecution. He challenges listeners to take the Word seriously—and live it out. Resources: They close by pointing listeners to discipleship.org for tools and resources to help build scripture-centered discipleship practices.

    Overseeding the Gospel

    Play Episode Listen Later Apr 7, 2025 34:33


    Join us at the 2025 National Disciple Making Forum: https://discipleship.org/national-disciple-making-forum/  Check out Discipleship.org for resources on disciple-making: https://discipleship.org/resources/  Today's episode will help us understand the power of prayer and fasting, how to incorporate them into our daily lives, and why they are essential for personal and community transformation. Stay Informed - Get our newsletter: http://eepurl.com/hPViAr The Power of Abundantly Sowing Gospel Seeds - Disciple Maker's Podcast In this episode of the Disciple Maker's Podcast, hosts Jason Ishmael and Josh Howard dive into the fifth principle of disciple making: 'Overseeding the Gospel.' They discuss the importance of abundantly sowing seeds of the gospel, drawing on farming principles and illustrating how evangelism is about sharing the beauty and goodness of Jesus. They also highlight the need for gospel seed to be shared in its full form and challenge listeners to have Jesus regularly on their lips. The episode offers practical tools for evangelism and urges believers to engage in intentional gospel sharing to see a bountiful harvest. Get Discipleship.org's premium Podcast Feed: https://disciplemakerspodcast.supercast.com/  Key Takeaways  00:00 Introduction and Drum Roll 00:26 Introducing the 10 Principles of Disciple Making 00:49 Principle 5: Overseeding the Gospel 02:02 The Importance of Abundant Gospel Sowing 04:04 Illustration: Evangelism and Relationships 05:15 Challenges in Modern Evangelism 07:52 Sowing Gospel Seeds in Today's Culture 11:59 The Full Gospel vs. Partial Gospel 16:51 A New Commandment: Love One Another 17:02 The Authority of Jesus Christ 17:21 Misconceptions About Salvation 19:31 The Importance of Unity in Mission 22:41 Abundant Seed Sowing and Harvest 27:41 Practical Tools for Evangelism 30:43 Encouragement and Final Thoughts   Check out our Blogs: https://discipleship.org/blog/  See Below for a longer description: In this episode of the Disciple Maker's Podcast, Josh Howard and Jason Ishmael break down the concept of “overseeding the gospel” — the fifth principle in their disciple-making series. Kicking things off with some lighthearted banter, they dive into why spreading the gospel abundantly is crucial for effective evangelism. Josh explains that overseeding is like a farmer scattering seeds generously—more seeds mean a greater harvest. This principle fuels disciple-making movements worldwide, especially in places like India and China, where rapid growth happens because believers share the gospel frequently and widely. A key takeaway? Repetition matters. In the West, gospel-sharing is often sporadic, but Josh emphasizes that the more we sow, the more we reap. Jason clears up a common misconception: good marketing isn't the same as evangelism. True gospel sowing happens through personal, intentional conversations—not just inviting people to church. Josh uses a relatable analogy: if he wanted to set his son up with Jason's daughter, he wouldn't start by criticizing her. Instead, he'd highlight his son's best qualities. Evangelism should be the same—helping people see Jesus' beauty, not just pointing out their flaws. Jason brings up the parable of the sower, reminding us that we can't control how people receive the gospel, but we're called to plant seeds everywhere. The discussion then shifts to a major issue in modern Christianity: the watered-down “salvation-only” gospel. Josh and Jason push for a full gospel message—one that includes both forgiveness and submission to Jesus as King. Josh warns against separating salvation from Jesus' lordship, a mindset that has led to consumer-driven Christianity with little real transformation. He even describes a needed “second conversion,” where believers fully commit to Jesus' authority. Jason paints a vivid picture: accepting Jesus' sacrifice but refusing His leadership is like enjoying a lavish meal He paid for but not inviting Him to the table. The episode also tackles the common debate over the “minimum entrance requirements” for heaven, arguing that this mindset misses the point. Instead of asking, “What's the least I can do?” they encourage listeners to pursue full devotion to Jesus. For practical application, Josh introduces tools like the "15-second testimony" and the "three circles gospel presentation," designed to help believers share their faith naturally in everyday conversations. The key? Talk about Jesus as easily as you'd recommend a great restaurant or movie. They wrap up with a challenge: tell someone why following Jesus is good news, and ask if they've considered it. Many people are just waiting for someone to bring it up. Bottom line? Evangelism isn't about technique—it's about loving Jesus so much that talking about Him becomes second nature. Sow seeds generously, trust God with the harvest, and watch what He does.

    The Foundation of Prayer and Fasting

    Play Episode Listen Later Mar 31, 2025 31:59


    Join us at the 2025 National Disciple Making Forum: https://discipleship.org/national-disciple-making-forum/    Check out Discipleship.org for resources on disciple-making: https://discipleship.org/resources/  Today's episode will help us understand the power of prayer and fasting, how to incorporate them into our daily lives, and why they are essential for personal and community transformation. Stay Informed - Get our newsletter: http://eepurl.com/hPViAr Leading by Example: Principle #3 of Disciple Making The Power of Radical Prayer and Fasting | Disciple Makers Podcast Join Jason Ishmael and Josh Howard as they dive deep into the fourth core disciple-making principle: the significance of a radical prayer and fasting culture. This episode covers the impact of prayer and fasting on spiritual movements and personal transformation, backed by biblical insights and historical examples. Learn practical tips to incorporate these practices into your life and community to see profound spiritual breakthroughs. Perfect for anyone looking to deepen their spiritual journey and impact the world for Christ. Get Discipleship.org's premium Podcast Feed: https://disciplemakerspodcast.supercast.com/    Key Takeaways  00:00 Introduction and Banter 03:09 Disciple Making Principles Overview 03:38 Principle 4: Radical Prayer and Fasting 04:18 Practical Applications of Prayer and Fasting 04:36 Biblical Foundation for Fasting 07:41 Personal Reflections and Encouragement 10:31 Tips for Starting Fasting 13:20 Examples of Fasting in Ministry 16:23 Practical Steps to Begin Fasting 17:46 Pressing into God's Presence 18:27 Physical Actions with Spiritual Implications 19:43 The Benefits of Fasting 20:52 Practical Tools for Prayer and Fasting 26:14 Evaluating and Adjusting Your Cravings 28:33 Intentionality in Prayer and Fasting 32:20 Conclusion and Call to Action   Check out our Blogs: https://discipleship.org/blog/  See Below for a longer description: In this episode, hosts Josh Howard and Jason Ishmael dive into the power of prayer and fasting in a disciple's life and their impact on spiritual movements. They break down the biblical foundation, historical examples, and practical ways to incorporate these practices into daily life and ministry. The conversation kicks off with lighthearted banter before shifting to the episode's core theme: cultivating a culture of radical prayer and fasting. Josh emphasizes that some of the most impactful church movements rely on these disciplines, citing historical revivals that began with a few dedicated people seeking God through prayer and fasting. Referencing Matthew 6, the hosts discuss how Jesus taught about fasting—not for public recognition, but as a way to deepen one's connection with God. Jason points out a common misunderstanding: fasting isn't just about giving up food—it's about creating space for God to work. He shares how his church's 21-day prayer and fasting tradition before Easter fosters spiritual renewal. Josh and Jason offer practical tips for getting started, urging listeners to begin with small steps—like skipping one meal a week to focus on prayer. They highlight the story of Charles Finney and Pastor Nash, who fasted and prayed before Finney's revivals, underscoring how essential these practices were to their ministry's success. The hosts also touch on the scientific benefits of fasting, such as increased mental clarity and discipline. They introduce tools like Dick Eastman's "prayer wheel" to help structure prayer time and emphasize the importance of silence in prayer—something Jason admits was a struggle for him initially. As the episode wraps up, Josh challenges listeners to take action—whether by fasting a meal a week, dedicating focused prayer time, or involving their community in these spiritual disciplines. They encourage listeners to share their experiences and reach out for support, reinforcing the idea that prayer and fasting aren't just personal practices but catalysts for transformation in families, churches, and beyond.

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