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rwh10may Ep.363 – Run With Horses Podcast – A Growth Mindset for Disciple Makers Podcast: rwh.podbean.com Website: www.runwithhorses.net Youtube: https://youtube.com/@rwhpodcast Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/RWHpodcast Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/rwh_podcast Twitter: https://twitter.com/RWH_podcast Author pages with links to all books on Amazon. https://www.amazon.com/stores/author/B0BCSDDVLB – James Norman Smith https://www.amazon.com/stores/author/B0BMGW51FW – Susan Jane Smith 1. The Growth Mindset in a Christian Context Paul challenged believers to put effort into their spiritual life. Change is a part of growth and we should desire to be more like Jesus. A Christian is filled with the Holy Spirit who is working to make us like Jesus. Change will happen. The joy is that we can embrace it and benefit from working with God instead of against Him. A growth-minded believer: Welcomes challenges as opportunities for sanctification (James 1:2–4 NKJV). Perseveres under trial, knowing endurance produces spiritual maturity (Romans 5:3–5 NKJV). Seeks feedback and correction, recognizing rebuke refines faith (Proverbs 27:17 NKJV; Proverbs 12:1 NKJV). Celebrates others' growth, rejoicing when fellow believers flourish (Romans 12:15 NKJV). 2. Discipleship and the Great Commission Jesus' charge to “make disciples” frames our growth-oriented calling: “Go therefore and make disciples of all the nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit, teaching them to observe all things that I have commanded you; and lo, I am with you always, even to the end of the age.” —Matthew 28:19–20 (NKJV) A growth mindset fuels the “teaching” phase: we believe learners can grow in knowledge, obedience, and Christ-likeness. It also shapes our own approach, as we accept that our skills in evangelism, teaching, and mentoring improve through practice, prayer, and reliance on God. 3. Spiritual Growth is a Process Scripture depicts growth as a journey: “But grow in the grace and knowledge of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ.” —2 Peter 3:18 (NKJV) “Therefore, leaving the discussion of the elementary principles of Christ, let us go on to perfection…” —Hebrews 6:1 (NKJV) “I press toward the goal for the prize of the upward call of God in Christ Jesus.” —Philippians 3:14 (NKJV) These passages underscore that maturity takes intentional effort—exactly the outworking of a growth mindset in the spiritual realm. 4. The “One Another's” and Growth Mindset Command Scripture (NKJV) Growth-Mindset Connection Love one another John 13:34–35 Encourages perseverance in relationships even when hard. Serve one another Galatians 5:13 Builds humility and stewards gifts for others' growth. Encourage one another 1 Thessalonians 5:11 Puts others first. Admonish one another Colossians 3:16; Romans 15:14 Welcomes correction for mutual sanctification. Bear one another's burdens Galatians 6:2 Cultivates perseverance and compassion. Spur one another on Hebrews 10:24 Motivates toward good deeds and spiritual progress. Pray for one another James 5:16 Invites God's transforming power in growth. Be kind and tenderhearted Ephesians 4:32 Gives mercy to those who need it, we all do! Together, these “one another's” form the relational soil in which a growth mindset flourishes—each believer both a learner and a teacher, giving and receiving grace, correction, encouragement, and accountability. 5. Practical Implications for Disciple Makers Model a growth mindset by sharing your own struggles and progress in Bible study, prayer, or ministry skills. Set incremental goals for disciples (e.g., memorizing Scripture, leading a small group), celebrating small wins to build confidence (Zechariah 4:10 NKJV). Cultivate “one another” rhythms in your church—regular accountability groups, prayer partnerships, and service teams. Teach the biblical process of growth—explain that sanctification involves trials, correction, and perseverance, rooted in passages like James 1:2–4 (NKJV) and Hebrews 12:11 (NKJV). Encourage reflection—have disciples journal progress, confess weaknesses, and plan next steps, reinforcing that effort and dependence on Christ yield transformation. **(00:00) END PART 1** **(27:00 – 5:00) BEGIN PART 2** The Holy Spirit reshapes how we think about challenges, our own abilities, and the process of sanctification. 1. Confess Fixed-Mindset Thinking and Renew Your Mind “I can't change,” “I can't do that.” and the like are big hinderances to spiritual growth. Lies need to be brought into the light and exchanged for truth. The question should be, “What is God doing? What does HE want me to do?” God empowers His people for His work. “And do not be conformed to this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind…” —Romans 12:2 (NKJV) Practice: Keep a “mindset journal.” When you catch yourself thinking “I'll never grow in this,” write it down and pray: “Lord, show me Your truth here.” Replace it with a Scriptural affirmation (“I can grow by God's grace”—Philippians 4:13). 2. Meditate on God's Word Daily A growth mindset flourishes when immersed in truth. Scripture both reveals God's power to change us and gives the roadmap. Read, Think Deeply about,and put it into practice. “…but his delight is in the law of the Lord, And in His law he meditates day and night.” —Psalm 1:2 (NKJV) Practice: Start with 5–10 minutes each morning reading a short passage (e.g. one chapter of Proverbs or the Gospels). Ask: “What does this teach me about God's promise to strengthen me?” 3. Pray for Wisdom and Perseverance Growth requires divine enablement—both insight and the grit to keep going. “If any of you lacks wisdom, let him ask of God, who gives to all liberally…” —James 1:5 (NKJV) “Count it all joy when you fall into various trials, knowing that the testing of your faith produces patience.” —James 1:2–3 (NKJV) Practice: Begin each day by asking God for wisdom to see opportunities for growth and the patience to endure them. When trials come (at work, in relationships, in ministry), thank Him for the refining work He intends. 4. Engage in Christian Community Even if attendance has been spotty, intentional fellowship is vital for encouragement, accountability, and skill development. “And let us consider one another in order to stir up love and good works, not forsaking the assembling of ourselves together, as is the manner of some, but exhorting one another…” —Hebrews 10:24–25 (NKJV) “As iron sharpens iron, So a man sharpens the countenance of his friend.” —Proverbs 27:17 (NKJV) Practice: Commit to attending at least one fellowship gathering (Sunday service, small group, men's/women's Bible study). Ask a mature believer to meet monthly as a “growth partner” for prayer and feedback. 5. Set Small, Measurable Goals for Spiritual Disciplines SMART goals Growth rarely happens overnight. Incremental victories build confidence that God can grow you further. “For who has despised the day of small things?…” —Zechariah 4:10 (NKJV) Practice: Choose one discipline (e.g., Scripture memory, daily prayer journaling, service) and set a tiny goal: memorize one verse a week, pray five minutes daily, serve once a month. Celebrate each completion by recording it in your journal and thanking God. 6. Welcome Correction and Feedback A growth mindset leans into rebuke, knowing it produces maturity. “The ear that hears the rebukes of life Will abide among the wise.” —Proverbs 15:31 (NKJV) “But exhort one another daily, while it is called ‘Today,' lest any of you be hardened through the deceitfulness of sin.” —Hebrews 3:13 (NKJV) Practice: Invite a trusted mentor or friend to give you honest feedback on your spiritual habits. When you receive correction, respond with “Thank you—help me understand how to improve.” 7. Practice Gratitude and Celebrate Others' Growth Focusing on progress—both yours and others'—reinforces a mindset that abilities can expand. “Rejoice with those who rejoice, and weep with those who weep.” —Romans 12:15 (NKJV) “In everything give thanks; for this is the will of God in Christ Jesus for you.” —1 Thessalonians 5:18 (NKJV) Practice: Keep a “gratitude list” of spiritual wins you see in yourself and others. Send a quick note or text to encourage a fellow believer when they share a breakthrough. 8. Rely on God's Strength in Weakness A growth mindset isn't self-reliance; it's dependence on Christ, who is at work in us. “…when I am weak, then I am strong.” —2 Corinthians 12:10 (NKJV) Practice: In moments of discouragement (“I failed again…”), confess your weakness and ask Christ to work through it. Memorize 2 Corinthians 12:9–10 and speak it aloud whenever you feel stuck. **(5:00 – 1:00)** Doctrine Today Jesus and His Present Ministry The Holy Spirit's Role in Disciple Making. Dispensational Baptist view of the End Times Understanding Theology is Important The Gospel and Ongoing Disciple Making Church Role in Discerning God's Will Barriers to Disciple Making Spiritual Warfare Jesus – Incarnation God's Sovereignty God's sovereignty means that God reigns over all things with perfect wisdom, power, and love, and nothing in our lives is outside His control. 1. God's Sovereignty Brings Peace in Uncertainty When life feels chaotic or unjust, God's sovereignty assures us that nothing happens apart from His knowledge or plan. “The Lord has established His throne in heaven, And His kingdom rules over all.” —Psalm 103:19 (NKJV) “And we know that all things work together for good to those who love God, to those who are the called according to His purpose.” —Romans 8:28 (NKJV) Why it matters: Even suffering and confusion have purpose under God's rule. He's not reacting—He's reigning. 2. God's Sovereignty Fuels Evangelism and Disciple-Making Because God is sovereign over salvation, we can evangelize boldly, knowing He draws hearts to Himself. “All that the Father gives Me will come to Me, and the one who comes to Me I will by no means cast out.” —John 6:37 (NKJV) “No one can come to Me unless the Father who sent Me draws him…” —John 6:44 (NKJV) Why it matters: The results of disciple-making aren't on your shoulders. You sow and water; God gives the increase (1 Corinthians 3:6–7 NKJV). 3. God's Sovereignty Grounds Our Identity and Purpose You are not random. You are created, saved, and called intentionally. “Your eyes saw my substance, being yet unformed. And in Your book they all were written, The days fashioned for me, When as yet there were none of them.” —Psalm 139:16 (NKJV) “For we are His workmanship, created in Christ Jesus for good works, which God prepared beforehand that we should walk in them.” —Ephesians 2:10 (NKJV) Why it matters: Your life, your calling, and even your challenges are part of God's good and sovereign plan. 4. God's Sovereignty Produces Worship and Humility When we recognize God is in control and we are not, we bow in awe and dependence. “Yours, O Lord, is the greatness, The power and the glory, The victory and the majesty; For all that is in heaven and in earth is Yours; Yours is the kingdom, O Lord, And You are exalted as head over all.” —1 Chronicles 29:11 (NKJV) “For My thoughts are not your thoughts, Nor are your ways My ways,” says the Lord. —Isaiah 55:8 (NKJV) Why it matters: Sovereignty reminds us that God is God—and we are not. 5. God's Sovereignty Guarantees His Promises Will Stand We can believe God's Word with full assurance because no power can thwart His will. “Indeed before the day was, I am He; And there is no one who can deliver out of My hand; I work, and who will reverse it?” —Isaiah 43:13 (NKJV) “The counsel of the Lord stands forever, The plans of His heart to all generations.” —Psalm 33:11 (NKJV) Why it matters: Our eternal hope is secure because it rests in God's unshakable rule. **(1:00)** It's important for all of us to see the big picture in life. God IS working and He WILL complete His work in you. Daily remind yourself that God is drawing you to Himself and He invites you to be an active participant in your spiritual growth. Reject the lie that you can't change. See the person God wants you to be and put real effort into doing your part, trusting that God will always do His part. – “Thank you for listening today! -If you enjoyed the show you can listen to all the past shows wherever you listen to podcasts. A good place to start is at runwithhorses.net. You can also write me at norman@runwithhorses.net or leave a comment on the Run With Horses Podcast facebook page. Don't be discouraged by the challenges you face. Keep your eyes on Jesus and embrace the opportunity to grow through the trial. Until next time, keep your eyes on Jesus and never stop running." **(00:00)**
Date: May 4, 2025Series: Vision 100Passage: Matthew 28:16-20Preacher: Pastor Edgar Aponte
What's missing in American discipleship movements that keeps us from being able to reach 4th generation and beyond disciples? Today's guest, Ryan Snow, has one, simple word: Prayer. Ryan Snow is the lead pastor at the Florence Northern Kentucky Vineyard Church, and has a heart for disciple-making. This is an awesome and super practical episode to take some notes on! In this episode, we talk about: 0:00 Intro 2:39 Ryan's Story Leading To Discipleship 6:35 The Tension Between Discipleship and The Modern Church World 15:50 The Prayer, Practice, and Power of Viral Disciple Making 21:36 Why Does God Want A Prayer Movement To Precede A Disciple-Making Movement 24:13 How To Bring A Stronger Prayer Culture To The West 33:32 How To Start Fruitful Zoom Prayer Meetings 39:49 The Only Disciple-Making Movement That's Worked 47:14 Secret Sauce Conference Mentioned: The Secret Sauce Conference: https://www.secretsauceconference.com/ ---
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/
Stand Alone Sermon on 4/27/25
What should a disciple of Jesus look like? How do we know when we are producing disciples?
In this episode, Ben Muir and Hana Love, emcees of EDM 25', share what it means to step off the expected path and say “yes” to something bigger!
A new MP3 sermon from Berean Baptist Church is now available on SermonAudio with the following details: Title: Disciple Making: Evangelism or Discipleship? Subtitle: Being Bereans | Acts 17:11 Speaker: Sean E. Harris Broadcaster: Berean Baptist Church Event: Podcast Date: 4/22/2025 Length: 59 min.
Tim and Daren look at Romans 12:9-16 and discuss how sincere friendship is a key component of disciple making and a healthy ministry foundation.Learn more about Tim at https://imakedisciples.comSee Tim's book Turning Over a New Leaf on Amazon: https://www.amazon.ca/Turning-Over-Leaf-Timothy-Beadle-ebook/dp/B09455BG2VLearn more about Daren at https://darenwride.com and https://12church.comSee his book DNA of a Christ Follower on Amazon: https://amzn.to/3BtnvIx
Is it really worth it to keep praying when God doesn't seem to answer? What is the role of fasting, and why should we do it? In this week's episode, Cynthia dives deep into these key questions, providing important answers to the honest struggles many face. You'll also gain practical tips on how to start fasting and understand its value as a spiritual discipline for those looking to multiply disciples of Jesus. Tune in to explore: The significance of persistent prayer The role and benefits of fasting Practical tips for beginning your fasting journey Insights into disciple-making movements Join the conversation and deepen your faith and spiritual life! #prayer #fasting #disciplemaking #spiritualgrowth #podcast
rwh19april Ep.360 – Run With Horses Podcast – Balancing Self-Reliance and Interdependence Podcast: rwh.podbean.com Website: www.runwithhorses.net Youtube: https://youtube.com/@rwhpodcast Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/RWHpodcast Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/rwh_podcast Twitter: https://twitter.com/RWH_podcast Author pages with links to all books on Amazon. https://www.amazon.com/stores/author/B0BCSDDVLB – James Norman Smith https://www.amazon.com/stores/author/B0BMGW51FW – Susan Jane Smith **(24:00)** Do you go it alone or do you walk through life with others? It's not an either/ or proposition, it's both! There are areas where you definitely have to pull you own weight but often, much more often than you may think, we are supposed to help each other through life. Today, we are thinking about self-reliance and interdependence for disciples of Jesus. Welcome to Run With Horses! My name is Norman and my goal is to help you thrive as a follower of Jesus. The spiritual life is simple in many ways, but potentially the most difficult part of your life. God invites you to grow, to live intentionally and to join in His mission. It's very cool that we can do that together! Thank you for joining me today! “If you're new here, you can check out past episodes at runwithhorses.net. As always, I appreciate your feedback, questions, and reviews!” **(23:00 – 0:00)* * PART 1 B. Overview Scripture calls believers to cultivate personal accountability (self-reliance) while actively engaging in a community of faith (interdependence). Key Themes: Biblical foundations for self-reliance in areas like personal spiritual growth, work, and stewardship. Scriptural mandates for living in community, bearing one another's burdens, and using spiritual gifts for the common good. C. Context Emphasize believer's individual responsibility before God. Highlight the importance of local church fellowship as a way of fulfilling our mission together. D. Today I want you to consider: What does “self-reliance” mean in your personal walk with Christ? How do you see interdependence playing a role in your local church or community? II. Self-Reliance in the Christian Life A. Definition and Biblical Context Self-reliance: Cultivating personal responsibility in one's faith, work, finances, and spiritual growth, recognizing that while God provides strength, He also calls us to be diligent stewards of our lives. B. Passages on Self-Reliance Proverbs 6:6-8 (NKJV): “Go to the ant, you sluggard; Consider her ways, and be wise. Which having no guide, overseer, or ruler, Provideth her supplies in the summer, And gathers her food in the harvest.” Encourage proactive effort and preparedness in everyday life. In what areas of your life can you emulate the ant's industriousness? Galatians 6:4-5 (NKJV): “But let each one examine his own work, and then he shall have rejoicing in himself alone, and not in another. For each one shall bear his own load.” Highlight the importance of personal evaluation and responsibility. How can you take ownership of your spiritual growth while avoiding pride? Philippians 4:13 (NKJV): “I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me.” Emphasize that personal achievement is rooted in Christ's strength working through us. How does relying on Christ's strength change your approach to personal challenges? C. Practical Steps Self-Examination: Encourage daily devotional practices and self-reflection. How are you taking responsibility for your life now? What practical actions show that you are serious about your spiritual life and responsibilities before God? Personal Responsibility: Discuss setting goals in prayer, work, and study. Where do you need to be more proactive? Are the basics covered? Are you seeking out ways to intentionally pursue godliness in your life? How, Where, When? Is it on your calendar and in your budget? Stewardship: Explore biblical principles of managing finances, time, and talents responsibly. Do you recognize the accountability that you have before God in the decisions you make? What does that look like? **(00:00) END PART 1** **(27:00 – 5:00) BEGIN PART 2** III. Interdependence in the Body of Christ A. Definition and Biblical Context Interdependence: Recognizing that while believers are called to personal responsibility, they are also part of a larger, unified body where mutual support, accountability, and service are essential. B. Passages on Interdependence 1 Corinthians 12:12-27 (NKJV): “For as the body is one and has many members, and all the members of that one body, being many, are one body, so also is Christ...” Illustrate how each believer has a unique role that contributes to the health of the whole body. Which “spiritual gifts” do you see in your life that benefit the community, and how can you serve more effectively? Where and how are you living out this ‘Body Life' of the church? Sunday morning worship service is NOT enough. Are you intentionally seeking fellowship and investing in the life of your church family. Are you inviting them into your life? Small groups, one on one meetings, microchurch gatherings in public and homes. Galatians 6:2 (NKJV): “Bear one another's burdens, and so fulfill the law of Christ.” Stress the call to support one another in times of difficulty. How have you experienced God's provision through the help of others? How can you extend that help? Ephesians 4:15-16 (NKJV): “But, speaking the truth in love, may grow up in all things into Him who is the head—Christ. From whom the whole body, joined and knit together by every joint with which it is equipped, according to the proper working of each individual part, causes the growth of the body for the building up of itself in love.” Emphasize mutual edification and the organic growth of the church as a family of believers. In what ways can you contribute to the spiritual growth of your church family? Intentionality is Key. C. Application and Practical Steps Fellowship and Community: Discuss the importance of small groups, church ministries, and accountability partnerships. Doesn't happen accidently. Serving Others: Outline practical opportunities for service in the local community and the global church. Local church, neighbor church, etc. IV. Integrating Self-Reliance and Interdependence Recognizing the Balance Christians are called to be proactive and responsible stewards of their own lives (self-reliance) while also fully engaging in the support system provided by the Church (interdependence). James 2:14-17 (NKJV): “What does it profit, my brethren, if someone says he has faith but does not have works? … Thus faith by itself, if it does not have works, is dead.” Faith must be expressed both individually and collectively. How does your personal faith inspire you to serve the community, and in turn, how does community service strengthen your personal walk with Christ? How do you maintain personal discipline while remaining open to community guidance? “In what specific ways will you take responsibility for your personal growth this week, and how will you actively engage with your faith community?” **(5:00 – 1:00)** Doctrine Today Jesus and His Present Ministry The Holy Spirit's Role in Disciple Making. Dispensational Baptist view of the End Times Understanding Theology is Important The Gospel and Ongoing Disciple Making Church Role in Discerning God's Will Barriers to Disciple Making 1. Lack of Intentionality Unclear Vision: Often, churches and individual believers may not have a clear, intentional vision or plan for disciple making. Without concrete goals, training, and accountability measures, disciple making can become an incidental outcome rather than a strategic priority. Scriptural Neglect: Some ministries may focus heavily on evangelism while underemphasizing the lifelong process of nurturing, teaching, and mentoring new believers. This disconnect from the biblical mandate (e.g., Matthew 28:19-20) can lead to a superficial understanding of discipleship. 2. Cultural Individualism Self-Reliance Over Community: Modern Western culture often emphasizes personal autonomy and self-reliance, which can contrast sharply with the biblical call to community (1 Corinthians 12:12-27). This individualism makes it more challenging to create environments where believers willingly submit to accountability, mentoring, and mutual growth. Reluctance to Invest in Others: The desire for personal achievement and success may lead some to undervalue the long-term commitment required to disciple others, rather than focusing on immediate personal benefits or social status. 3. Time Constraints and Busyness Competing Priorities: In today's fast-paced society, individuals often struggle to balance work, family, and ministry responsibilities. This busyness can leave little room for the deep, personal interactions required for disciple making. Over-Scheduled Lives: Constant digital engagement and overloaded schedules can lead to shallow relationships that lack the depth needed for transformative discipleship. 4. Lack of Effective Leadership and Training Insufficient Leadership Development: Effective discipleship requires mentors who are themselves mature in their faith and skilled in relational dynamics. A shortage of trained leaders who can intentionally mentor others is a significant barrier. Inadequate Resources: Churches may not invest adequately in training programs or create robust systems for leadership development, resulting in missed opportunities to equip believers for disciple making. 5. Digital Distractions and Superficial Engagement Impact of Technology: While digital media offers innovative outreach tools, the overreliance on online interactions can lead to more shallow, transactional relationships that lack the depth and accountability found in face-to-face mentoring. Social Media Culture: Constant engagement with social media may foster a culture of immediacy and quick approval, which can detract from the slow, formative process of true disciple making. 6. Fear of Judgment and Vulnerability Relational Barriers: Discipleship involves vulnerability and accountability. Many believers may be reluctant to share their struggles or admit weaknesses due to the fear of judgment or rejection by peers. Cultural Stigma: In both church settings and the broader society, there can be stigma associated with showing vulnerability, leading individuals to hide their need for growth rather than seeking relational support. 7. Theological Misunderstandings Misconceptions About Grace and Works: Some may mistakenly view discipleship as a checklist of rules or a set of actions rather than a transformative process fueled by the Holy Spirit. This can lead to legalism on one end or laxity on the other. Lack of Depth: Without a robust, well-balanced teaching on both grace and discipline, believers can misunderstand the essence of discipleship, which involves both receiving God's unmerited favor and engaging in the process of sanctification. 8. Resource Limitations and Institutional Challenges Financial and Infrastructural Constraints: Smaller churches or those in economically challenged areas might lack the resources to create comprehensive discipleship programs. Budget constraints, limited venues for small groups, or lack of access to quality teaching materials can impact effectiveness. Institutional Resistance: Sometimes, long-standing institutional practices can resist change, making it difficult to adapt or innovate new methods for effective disciple making. **(1:00)** As we follow Jesus there is a need to do our part and help others along the way. Engaging in the life of the church family often benefits you more than you expect, in ways that you don't expect. The Body of Christ, when operating as it should helps you to grow and gives you opportunities to invest in helping others to grow. Your gifts are needed just as you need the gifts of others. – “Thank you for listening today! -If you enjoyed the show you can listen to all the past shows wherever you listen to podcasts. A good place to start is at runwithhorses.net. You can also write me at norman@runwithhorses.net or leave a comment on the Run With Horses Podcast facebook page. May we all be found faithful, ready, and living for eternity. Until next time, keep your eyes on Jesus and never stop running." **(00:00)**
Join us as we dig into a discussion on the pursuit of better disciple-making in the American church. Josh Howard, the director of vision and mobilization from Discipleship.org shares his perspective and experiences. In 2015, he launched a ministry called “Ignite,” which has seen over 30,000 churches started in about 10 years through movements of multiplication.Josh currently serves as the Director of Vision and Mobilization at Discipleship.org, Global Mobilization Catalyst for E3 Partners, and the President of Fidelis International Seminary. Josh holds a Master of Arts in Missional Church Movements from Wheaton College, an honorary doctorate from Dallas Christian College, and is the co-author of the book Christian Extremism: A Life Worth Dying For and of the book Igniting Movements: Multiplying Churches in Dark Places.Find Josh and his resources at:https://discipleship.org @discipleshipdotorg https://www.fidelis.onlinehttps://www.theignitenetwork.org
In this conversation, Britton Smith and Neal Karsten explore the complexities of transitioning church models, focusing on the challenges and opportunities presented by different approaches to disciple-making. They discuss three primary paths: transitioning existing churches, adopting a hybrid model, and pioneering new works. The conversation highlights the emotional and practical difficulties faced by pastors and congregations during these transitions, emphasizing the importance of understanding foundational issues and the dynamics of church movements.
Mission Driven and Disciple Making: Start at the End Week 3 of the Refresh 2025 Series Speaker: Ben Wagenaar Scripture: Philippians 1:3-11 Download the slides for this message: https://www.dropbox.com/scl/fi/ir1gu7lja6pwpehqmh0fw/Refresh-2025-Week-3-PDF.pdf?rlkey=waocr7rkt4ofzw908xv6r9j07&st=ld8wmpks&dl=0 (If using on mobile, click the icon on the top right and click direct download)
We have an encouraging and practical episode of the Church in Action coming to you this week! We will be sitting down with Gina Mueller who has served as a pastor and has led national disciple-making ministries but currently serves as Vision New England's Disciple Making Catalyst. We will be talking about her spiritual life. What does it look like? How can we learn from it? And how can we implement some key tools into our own spiritual practices? Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/visionnewengland/?hl=enFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/VisionNewEngland/Website: https://www.visionnewengland.org/To learn more about the Disciple Maker Leader Lab, click below!https://www.eventbrite.com/e/make-disciples-leader-lab-tickets-1270591436189?aff=oddtdtcreator
Meg Craig, of BSM, shares how her life plans changed from aspiring teacher to influential campus minister. She also discusses the challenges and opportunities of engaging students on community and commuter college campuses. If you're looking to connect with like-minded leaders and glean practical insights to elevate your ministry, be sure to join us for the EDM '25 conference. Register at https://www.vianations.org/students/events/edm25 We're back with the latest episode of our series, "Offstage": A sneak peek into the lives, ministries, and passions of our EDM '25 speakers.
Daren and Tim discuss how we can overcomplicate disciple-making and burn ourselves out. They then share a simple alternative approach, which at its core is about following Jesus, abiding in him, and carrying his yoke.Learn more about Tim at https://imakedisciples.comSee Tim's book Turning Over a New Leaf on Amazon: https://www.amazon.ca/Turning-Over-Leaf-Timothy-Beadle-ebook/dp/B09455BG2VLearn more about Daren at https://darenwride.com and https://12church.comSee his book DNA of a Christ Follower on Amazon: https://amzn.to/3BtnvIx
In today's episode, we're diving deep with Tony Miltenberger - a bi-vocational pastor, executive coach, and passionate disciple maker who's on a mission to transform how we understand disciple making in the modern world. Tony isn't just talking about faith from a pulpit; he's living it out in the marketplace, challenging the traditional church model and showing how discipleship isn't confined to Sunday mornings, but can revolutionize every aspect of our lives. We'll explore what true disciple-making looks like beyond programs and buildings - it's about intentional, relational, and reproducible connections that can literally change the world. Tony brings a unique perspective from his military background, coaching experience, and pastoral work, offering practical insights on how we can move from passive church attendance to active, transformative faith. If you've ever felt stuck in a consumer-driven spiritual experience, wondered how to genuinely follow Jesus in your workplace, or want to understand how discipleship can be a powerful tool for personal and collective growth, this episode is for you. So join us. Tony Miltenberger is the founder of Follow2Lead Coaching. He is a veteran, podcast host, executive coach, author, and the associate pastor of disciple making at Centerville Grace Church. Throughout the years, Tony has traveled the globe taking deployments in Kuwait, El Salvador, and numerous marriage retreats throughout the US. He has consulted with churches in the deep south and multi-million dollar organizations in the Midwest. He has done hundreds of hours of pastoral counseling and executive coaching. Each conversation helps people uncover their true potential by taking a deep look at their past as well as their hopes for the future. He is genuinely curious and passionate about pursuing the mission of making disciples who make disciples. His proudest accomplishment is being the father to three amazing kids and being married to his high school sweetheart (Karen) for over 20 years.Tony's Website:www.follow2leadcoaching.comTony's Recommendation:The AI-Driven LeaderSubscribe to Our Substack: Shifting CultureConnect with Joshua: jjohnson@allnations.usGo to www.shiftingculturepodcast.com to interact and donate. Every donation helps to produce more podcasts for you to enjoy.Follow on Facebook, Instagram, Twitter, Threads, Bluesky or YouTubeConsider Giving to the podcast and to the ministry that my wife and I do around the world. Just click on the support the show link belowShifting Culture Productions Support the show
A new MP3 sermon from Berean Baptist Church is now available on SermonAudio with the following details: Title: Disciple Making with Oaks International Subtitle: Being Bereans | Acts 17:11 Speaker: Sean E. Harris Broadcaster: Berean Baptist Church Event: Podcast Date: 4/3/2025 Length: 89 min.
Check out the Book The Disciple Making Grandparent: A Guidebook for Helping Your Grandchild Trust and Follow Jesus: https://a.co/d/dvtMAJX Interested in more content from RENEW? Sign up for our newsletter: https://renew.org/resources/newsletter-sign-up/ The Disciple Making Grandparent: How to Guide Your Grandkids in Faith In this special episode, Daniel McCoy interviews David Upchurch about their new book, 'The Disciple Making Grandparent,' published by Renew.org. They discuss the importance of grandparents in the faith formation of their grandchildren, using scripture as a foundation. David shares personal experiences, practical advice, and unique advantages grandparents have in discipling their grandkids. The episode also highlights chapters of the book focused on creating meaningful connections and speaking truth to grandchildren. For those interested in becoming more intentional disciple-making grandparents, David Upchurch offers trainings at churches. Tune in to learn how to leave a lasting legacy of faith. Check the description for a link to preview the book and stay tuned for our next session on 'Resisting Christian Nationalism' with Paul Hugo Bart. https://reallifetheologypodcast.supercast.com/ Key Takeaways 00:00 Introduction and Episode Overview 00:35 Meet the Authors: Daniel McCoy and David Upchurch 01:00 The Importance of Being a Disciple-Making Grandparent 02:33 Personal Reflections on Grandparenting 05:06 Unique Advantages and Challenges for Grandparents 16:31 Core Principles from the Book 17:23 How to Connect and Engage with Your Grandchildren 24:09 Speaking Truth and Leaving a Legacy 27:15 Conclusion and Contact Information 28:27 Closing Remarks and Upcoming Episodes
After preparing hearts and planting seeds of truth, the next vital step is cultivating interest through personal Bible studies. Every Adventist—regardless of background—can help lead others to Jesus by opening the Scriptures. It's simple, powerful, and essential for church growth and personal spiritual revival.
Gary Stidham explores the strategies and stories behind mobilizing university students to impact the nations. If you're looking to connect with like-minded leaders and glean practical insights to elevate your ministry, be sure to join us for the EDM '25 conference. Register at https://www.vianations.org/students/events/edm25 We're back with the latest episode of our series, "Offstage": A sneak peek into the lives, ministries, and passions of our EDM '25 speakers.
This Sunday, Pastor Jon Tyson continued Missional Formation, where we are exploring what we believe are the “core competencies” of living life on mission with Jesus. We began our final three weeks of this series on Sacrificial Mission by looking at the distinctive of Disciple Making. The vision of our church is that everyone in our church is sharing the Gospel, seeing people come to Christ, and discipling them into the Kingdom of God. Discipleship, particularly in the West, has become associated feelings of frustration, over dependence on programs, and general confusion around what it actually means to both be discipled and disciple others. In light of this, we have to recover a Biblical standard for discipleship, and receive a fresh vision for multi-generational discipling like we see modeled by Paul in 2 Timothy 2:1-2.
We know that Jesus' mission was to make disciples. How, exactly, did He do this? What was His strategy? Let's walk with Jesus through the Gospel of Mark to discover this together.
There are times in disciple-making when you need to go deep and times you need to go wide. When do you do which one? What does that look like practically? Today on the podcast, Cynthia talks about the importance of each of these and unpacks this question for us.
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/ What is a Disciple? A disciple is someone following Jesus, being changed by Jesus, and joining the mission of Jesus. Stay Informed - Get our newsletter: http://eepurl.com/hPViAr The Disciple Makers Podcast: Understanding Clear Biblical Definitions In this episode of the Disciple Makers Podcast, hosts delve into the second principle of disciple making: the importance of using clear biblical definitions. Featuring mega church pastor Jason Ishmael and prolific disciple maker Josh Howard, this episode explores what it truly means to be a disciple and the transformative journey of following Jesus. The hosts discuss the definitions from Matthew 4:19, emphasizing the three core components of being a disciple: following Jesus, being changed by Jesus, and joining Jesus's mission. They also examine the implications for church leaders and the necessity of creating pathways that lead to effective disciple making. The episode concludes with practical advice for stepping out in faith and taking actionable steps to live out these principles. For more resources, visit discipleship.org and join upcoming events for further learning. Get Discipleship.org's premium Podcast Feed: https://disciplemakerspodcast.supercast.com/ Key Takeaways 00:00 Introduction to the Disciple Makers Podcast 00:54 Defining Disciple Making 02:20 The Core Mission of Disciple Making 02:54 The Transformative Work of Jesus 06:12 The Cost and Worth of Following Jesus 12:57 Personal Reflection on Discipleship 13:41 Personal Reflection on Discipleship 13:57 Challenges for Church Leaders 14:14 Defining Discipleship 15:33 Head, Heart, and Hands Discipleship 16:28 The Power of Clear Definitions 17:22 The Reality of Change 19:40 Disciple Making Defined 23:28 Practical Steps for Disciple Making 28:25 Encouragement and Resources Check out our Blogs: https://discipleship.org/blog/ See Below for a longer description: Defining Disciple-Making In this episode of the Disciple Makers Podcast, Josh Howard and Jason Ishmael explore the second disciple-making principle: the importance of clear biblical definitions. Their lighthearted yet insightful conversation focuses on what it means to be a disciple and the core responsibilities involved in disciple-making. Why Clear Definitions Matter Josh emphasizes that without a clear definition of discipleship, confusion and inconsistency arise. He notes that asking 100 Christians for their definition of a disciple would likely yield 100 different answers. Clarity, he argues, is essential for effective disciple-making. What is a Disciple? A disciple is someone following Jesus, being changed by Jesus, and joining the mission of Jesus. Josh breaks this down into three key components—following, transformation, and mission—highlighting their central role in discipleship. Day-One Calling and Transformation Jason reflects on Jesus's call to His first disciples in Matthew 4:19, stressing that this transformative calling happened on day one—not after years of refinement. Following Jesus involves an ongoing process of change and closeness to Him. Challenges in Modern Christianity Josh points out that many Christians treat following and being transformed by Jesus as optional. He urges believers to move beyond shallow engagement and pursue genuine transformation through repentance, confession, and surrender. Head, Heart, and Hands Discipleship Jason shares Bobby Harrington's framework for holistic discipleship: Head: Intellectual surrender to Jesus Heart: Experiencing transformation Hands: Actively engaging in Jesus's mission This framework aligns with the greatest commandment—to love God with all heart, mind, soul, and strength—and provides a balanced approach to discipleship. Defining Disciple-Making Jason underscores that disciple-making is intentional and relational. It's about forming meaningful relationships that help others follow Jesus, experience transformation, and engage in His mission. Practical Steps for Church Leaders Josh and Jason challenge church leaders to develop clear, actionable discipleship plans—and ensure they're implemented effectively. They stress the importance of guiding believers through intentional spiritual growth. Overcoming Fear and Stagnation Jason acknowledges the fear many feel about stepping into disciple-making roles. Josh encourages listeners to embrace the process, trusting that God works through imperfections and initial missteps. Motivating Believers The hosts share strategies to engage believers, using personal stories and biblical examples to highlight the life-changing impact of true discipleship. Next Steps Josh recommends practical ways for listeners to evaluate their discipleship journey and create simple pathways for growth. He closes with an invitation to explore resources at discipleship.org and engage with the disciple-making community. Conclusion: This episode challenges believers and church leaders to define discipleship clearly and pursue intentional, relational disciple-making aligned with Jesus's mission. The hosts balance theological depth with practical advice, leaving listeners equipped and inspired.
The Great Commission calls believers to balance their relationship with God and active service. True discipleship involves remaining connected to Jesus while engaging in His mission to make disciples. This requires creating intentional space for God, removing distractions, and letting ministry flow from a genuine relationship with Him. Through the Holy Spirit's power, believers can overcome fear and effectively share their faith, remembering that obedience is the key focus while God handles the results.
In this episode, Brian and Cory discuss the paradigm shift from one-on-one discipleship to group discipleship. We emphasize the importance of community and relational networks in fostering spiritual growth. We explore the dynamics of movement in discipleship, the barriers faced in Western contexts, and strategies for effective group engagement. We also highlight the need for diverse perspectives and the role of community in creating a supportive environment for discipleship.
Come to the 2025 National Disciple Making Forum: https://discipleship.org/ Check out Discipleship.org for resources on disciple-making: https://discipleship.org/resources/ Today's episode will help us understand why disciple-making should be the church's core mission and how we can integrate it into our daily lives through prayer, intentional relationships, and simple, faithful steps. Stay Informed - Get our newsletter: http://eepurl.com/hPViAr Disciple Making: Making It the Core Mission Welcome back to the Disciple Maker's Podcast! In this episode, hosts Josh Howard and Jason Ishmael embark on a new series focusing on the '10 Core Principles of Disciple Making.' This episode dives into making disciple making the core mission of the church. Jason and Josh discuss why it's important to remind the church and individuals that disciple making should be the core mission. They share personal stories, confront the common disconnect between knowledge and action, and provide practical steps on how to make disciple making integral in our personal lives and within the church. Join us as we explore the significance of intentionality, prayer, and the importance of hands-on disciple making. Stay tuned for more insights and real-life stories aimed at equipping you to fulfill the Great Commission. Don't miss out on the details of upcoming events, including the Discipleship.org National Disciple Making Forum in Houston, Texas. Get Discipleship.org's premium Podcast Feed: https://disciplemakerspodcast.supercast.com/ Key Takeaways 00:00 Introduction and Banter 01:04 Introducing the 10 Core Principles of Disciple Making 01:41 Principle 1: Making Disciple Making the Core Mission 03:24 Challenges in Prioritizing Disciple Making 04:42 Personal Stories and Practical Applications 05:56 The Importance of Personal Commitment 10:29 Evangelism and Disciple Making: A Unified Mission 11:49 Practical Steps for Effective Disciple Making 17:05 Conviction and Commitment to Prayer 17:49 Praying for a Doctor Friend 19:25 Overcoming Fear to Pray 20:33 A Miraculous Healing 22:26 The Power of Intentional Prayer 24:20 Facing Rejection in Evangelism 27:38 Encouragement to Make Disciples 29:48 Final Thoughts and Call to Action Check out our Blogs: https://discipleship.org/blog/ See Below for a longer description: In the first episode of the Disciple Maker's Podcast, hosts Josh Howard and Jason Ishmael dive into the heart of disciple-making, breaking it down in a way that's both practical and relatable. They kick things off with some lighthearted banter before getting serious about their core message: making disciple-making the central mission of both the church and individual believers. Josh introduces the podcast's framework—10 Core Principles of Disciple-Making—developed by him and Bobby Harrington. Each episode will unpack one principle, starting with the foundational idea: disciple-making must be the church's primary focus. While this seems obvious, they acknowledge that many churches still struggle to put it into practice. Jason challenges the audience by pointing out the gap between knowing disciple-making is essential and actually doing it. He shares his own struggles in aligning his life with Jesus' teachings—like when his wife's blunt question about tithing revealed an area he hadn't fully surrendered. Moments like these highlight how disciple-making isn't just for pastors—it's a calling for every believer. The conversation turns to practical steps. Josh and Jason emphasize that disciple-making isn't a lofty goal but something woven into everyday life. Josh shares a personal story about being convicted for not praying for non-believers, leading him and his wife to start praying daily. This simple act opened doors, including a surprising ministry opportunity with a previously resistant doctor. They stress that disciple-making happens in small, intentional relationships—"ones, twos, and threes," not massive crowds. It's about praying for people by name, being available, and stepping out in faith. They also tackle the misconception that evangelism and discipleship are separate tasks, reinforcing that Jesus saw them as one mission: leading people to faith and maturity. Before wrapping up, they preview a major study on thriving disciple-making churches, which will be shared at an event in Houston, Texas. Their final challenge? Don't overcomplicate it. Trust God, take small faithful steps, and make disciple-making a natural part of life. This episode is both inspiring and practical—packed with real stories, honest struggles, and clear next steps for anyone looking to live out the Great Commission. In the first episode of the Disciple Maker's Podcast, hosts Josh Howard and Jason Ishmael dive into the heart of disciple-making, breaking it down in a way that's both practical and relatable. They kick things off with some lighthearted banter before getting serious about their core message: making disciple-making the central mission of both the church and individual believers. Josh introduces the podcast's framework—10 Core Principles of Disciple-Making—developed by him and Bobby Harrington. Each episode will unpack one principle, starting with the foundational idea: disciple-making must be the church's primary focus. While this seems obvious, they acknowledge that many churches still struggle to put it into practice. Jason challenges the audience by pointing out the gap between knowing disciple-making is essential and actually doing it. He shares his own struggles in aligning his life with Jesus' teachings—like when his wife's blunt question about tithing revealed an area he hadn't fully surrendered. Moments like these highlight how disciple-making isn't just for pastors—it's a calling for every believer. The conversation turns to practical steps. Josh and Jason emphasize that disciple-making isn't a lofty goal but something woven into everyday life. Josh shares a personal story about being convicted for not praying for non-believers, leading him and his wife to start praying daily. This simple act opened doors, including a surprising ministry opportunity with a previously resistant doctor. They stress that disciple-making happens in small, intentional relationships—"ones, twos, and threes," not massive crowds. It's about praying for people by name, being available, and stepping out in faith. They also tackle the misconception that evangelism and discipleship are separate tasks, reinforcing that Jesus saw them as one mission: leading people to faith and maturity. Before wrapping up, they preview a major study on thriving disciple-making churches, which will be shared at an event in Houston, Texas. Their final challenge? Don't overcomplicate it. Trust God, take small faithful steps, and make disciple-making a natural part of life. This episode is both inspiring and practical—packed with real stories, honest struggles, and clear next steps for anyone looking to live out the Great Commission.
rwh08march -Ep.354 – Run With Horses Podcast – Resisting Temptation Podcast: rwh.podbean.com Website: www.runwithhorses.net Youtube: https://youtube.com/@rwhpodcast Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/RWHpodcast Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/rwh_podcast Twitter: https://twitter.com/RWH_podcast Author pages with links to all books on Amazon. https://www.amazon.com/stores/author/B0BCSDDVLB – James Norman Smith https://www.amazon.com/stores/author/B0BMGW51FW – Susan Jane Smith Resisting Temptation: A Biblical Approach to Overcoming Sin How Temptation Works Temptation works through a process that often involves desire, opportunity, and choice. It's important to understand how it operates in order to resist it effectively. Below is a breakdown of how temptation works, from a Biblical perspective: 1. Temptation Begins with Desire 2. Temptation Entices 3. Temptation Presents a Choice 4. Temptation Leads to Sin 5. Temptation's Full Outcome: Death and Destruction How Temptation Works in Our Lives In summary, temptation works through the following stages: Desire: Temptation begins with internal cravings or desires for things outside of God's will. Enticement: Temptation presents those desires as appealing and promises fulfillment. Choice: The individual faces a decision on whether to act on the desire or to resist it. Sin: Yielding to temptation results in sin and disobedience to God. Consequences: The end result of sin is death and separation from God. Prayer: Seeking God's Strength Scripture: Meditating on God's Word Accountability: Strengthening Each Other Avoiding Triggers: Preventing Temptation The Holy Spirit: Power to Overcome Temptation Fasting: Strengthening the Spirit Focusing on Eternal Rewards Doctrine of the Month The Holy Spirit's Role in Disciple Making.
Before we can share the gospel effectively, we must first prepare the soil of people's hearts—just like Jesus did. Discover how kindness, friendship, and service help us gain trust and make room for the Seed of Truth to grow.
Dr. Lawless, Caleb Iversen and Zac Menser explore the characteristics of disciple-making churches, recognizing how intentionality in leadership, the role of small groups, and the need for a structured discipleship pathway are best practices. The podcast team shares personal experiences and insights on how churches can effectively nurture spiritual growth and foster a culture of discipleship among their members. We hope this episode is encouraging to you today! Let us know how this episode encouraged you or share any feedback you have by emailing us at pastorscenter@sebts.edu. Pastor Matters is produced by Southeastern Baptist Theological Seminary. Find out how Southeastern can equip you to GO by visiting sebts.edu.
Check out Discipleship.org for resources on disciple-making: https://discipleship.org/resources/ Today's episode will help us understand why most churches struggle with disciple-making, how culture—not just strategy—is the key to change, and what practical steps leaders can take to spark a movement. Stay Informed - Get our newsletter: http://eepurl.com/hPViAr Creating a Disciple-Making Culture: Insights and Strategies from Experts Join hosts Josh Howard and Jason Ishmael in this exciting episode of the Disciple Makers Podcast as they discuss a recent study revealing that less than 5% of churches in America have a functional disciple-making culture. The hosts dive into their mission to elevate this percentage to 16%, as inspired by Malcolm Gladwell's 'Tipping Point.' Learn about the importance of shifting church culture toward disciple-making, practical tips for leaders, and the significance of leading by example. This episode is packed with insights, personal anecdotes, and practical strategies to inspire and equip churches and individuals to become effective disciple-makers. Don't miss this engaging and informative discussion! Get Discipleship.org's premium Podcast Feed: https://disciplemakerspodcast.supercast.com/ Key Takeaways 00:00 Introduction and Hosts Banter 01:23 The Disciple Making Study 02:15 The 16 Percent Goal 03:31 Challenges in Shifting Church Culture 05:17 Personal Experiences and Sarcasm 08:28 The Reality of Church Culture 13:47 Practical Steps for Culture Shift 19:52 Consumerism in Church Culture 21:11 Leadership Starts with Us 22:00 The Power of Discipleship 23:51 Catalysts and Early Adopters 26:49 Failing Forward in Ministry 28:36 Celebrating Small Wins 30:51 Real Ministry and Making Disciples 37:08 Encouragement and Resources Check out our Blogs: https://discipleship.org/blog/ See Below for a longer description: Disciple Makers Podcast: Shifting Church Culture Towards Disciple-Making In this episode, hosts Josh Howard and Jason Ishmael tackle the challenge of building a true disciple-making culture in churches. With years of ministry experience, they have an honest, practical conversation about why so many churches struggle—and what it takes to turn things around. Josh shares a startling stat from Discipleship.org—less than 5% of American churches have a functioning disciple-making culture. The problem isn't a lack of knowledge but a lack of implementation. They explore how church culture, more than strategy or programs, is the key factor holding disciple-making back. Josh and Jason unpack Discipleship.org's vision: increasing that 5% to 16%. Drawing from Malcolm Gladwell's “tipping point” concept, they explain that once 16% of churches embrace disciple-making, it can trigger a larger movement across the country. The issue isn't that people don't know how to make disciples—it's that they don't want to. Josh and Jason stress that real change happens when disciple-making becomes embedded in a church's DNA, not just another ministry program. Jason shares how his Iowa church is reshaping its culture—turning every ministry into a disciple-making opportunity. Whether serving coffee or leading worship, everything is intentionally tied to discipleship. Josh reminds leaders that culture starts at the top. Leaders must model disciple-making, celebrate progress (not just success), and reinforce the mission constantly. The hosts emphasize the importance of celebrating even small disciple-making efforts. They introduce the idea of “sucking forward”—embracing failures as part of the journey and encouraging leaders to keep pushing forward. Josh and Jason challenge leaders to be among the first to embrace disciple-making, even before it's mainstream. These pioneers will be key to hitting the 16% tipping point and sparking a larger movement. Josh closes with a powerful analogy: Leaders shouldn't just measure church culture; they should set it. Shaping a disciple-making culture requires intentional action, not passive observation. The episode wraps up with an invitation to engage with Discipleship.org for resources and support. Josh and Jason also invite listeners to their upcoming forum in Houston, where they'll continue the conversation and equip leaders for disciple-making.
2 Timothy 2:1-10 - This message emphasizes that true greatness in God's kingdom is achieved through disciple-making. Using 2 Timothy 2:1-10, the message highlights Paul's mentorship of Timothy as an example of how believers should invest in others to multiply disciples. The pathway to greatness is not about personal achievement but about surrendering to Christ, enduring hardships, and faithfully passing on the Gospel to future generations.
If you're looking to connect with like-minded leaders and glean practical insights to elevate your ministry, be sure to join us for the EDM '25 conference. Register at https://www.vianations.org/students/events/edm25 How can campus ministries effectively engage and disciple university students across cultures? In the latest episode of the Offstage series, Martha Moore, Founder & Campus Leader of Connexxion Europe and workshop speaker at EDM '25, shares her journey—from growing up in a family of spiritual pioneers to shaping campus ministry across Europe. SHOW NOTES: Connexxion Europe: https://connexxioneurope.wixsite.com/home Via Students: https://www.vianations.org/students
Interested in more content from RENEW? Sign up for our newsletter: https://renew.org/resources/newsletter-sign-up/ Today's episode will help us understand the challenges and rewards of building a disciple-making culture in a church, following the model of Jesus. Building a Disciple-Making Culture in Your Church In this heartfelt and motivating speech, a speaker from Real Life Ministries discusses the importance of building a disciple-making culture within the church. He recounts personal stories and challenges faced, including the recent loss of a close friend and mentor. Emphasizing the need to follow Jesus' model of discipleship, he explains how to create a sustainable, intentional, and reproducible process for making disciples. The speaker stresses the importance of establishing a culture rooted in biblical principles, building intentional relational environments, and fostering a commitment to disciple-making as a lifestyle. This talk provides both inspiration and practical advice for church leaders looking to navigate the complexities of modern ministry and remain true to their mission. Get our Premium podcast feed featuring all the breakout sessions from the RENEW gathering early. https://reallifetheologypodcast.supercast.com/ Key Takeaways 00:00 Welcome and Introduction 00:22 Honoring a Dear Friend 01:50 The Importance of Culture in Disciple Making 04:45 Personal Journey and Church Growth 08:25 Challenges and Triumphs in Church Planting 16:21 Building a Biblical Foundation for Disciple Making 23:37 Building on a Biblical Foundation 23:45 Intentional Lifestyle for Disciple Making 24:40 The Power of Multiplication 28:31 Creating Relational Environments 30:21 A Story of Transformation: Greg's Journey 37:28 Reproducible Processes in Disciple Making 42:09 The Challenges and Rewards of Disciple Making – – – – Be sure to like, subscribe and follow on social media! You can find us on: Instagram: @the.renew.network Facebook: Renew.org Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@RENEWnetwork Twitter: @therenewnetwork TikTok: the.renew.network Rumble: https://rumble.com/c/RENEW
Check out Discipleship.org for resources on disciple-making: https://discipleship.org/resources/ Today's episode will help us understand how both extroverts and introverts play vital roles in disciple making and how their unique strengths can complement each other for greater impact. Stay Informed - Get our newsletter: http://eepurl.com/hPViAr Introverts and Extroverts in Disciple Making | Disciple Makers Podcast In this engaging episode of the Disciple Makers podcast, hosts Josh Howard and Jason Ishmael dive into a crucial topic often overlooked in disciple making: the unique roles of introverts and extroverts. They explore the feedback and misconceptions surrounding introverts' contributions to disciple making and highlight the significant and complementary gifts present in both personality types. The discussion also includes insights on global personality studies and how these findings can enhance the effectiveness of ministry strategies. By reflecting on biblical examples and modern-day stories, they emphasize the importance of relational generosity and encourage every listener, regardless of their personality, to recognize their value in God's mission. Whether you're an introvert or an extrovert, this episode aims to inspire and equip you to make a profound impact through discipleship. Get Discipleship.org's premium Podcast Feed: https://disciplemakerspodcast.supercast.com/ Key Takeaways 00:00 Introduction 00:20 Introverts vs Extroverts in Disciple Making 01:14 The Role of Extroverts in Ministry 03:08 The Importance of Introverts in Ministry 03:58 Global Personality Research 05:03 Understanding Energy Sources 06:09 Strengths and Weaknesses of Extroverts and Introverts 10:10 Jesus' Model of Discipleship 15:32 Unseen Parts of the Body of Christ 17:09 Encouragement for Introverts 18:13 Curtis Sargent: The Introverted Mentor 19:59 The Unsung Heroes of Discipleship 21:58 Embracing Your Unique Gifts 23:00 Challenging Traditional Church Norms 25:17 The Beauty of Diverse Contributions 28:04 Valuing Different Personalities in Discipleship 32:35 Final Thoughts and Encouragement Check out our Blogs: https://discipleship.org/blog/ See Below for a longer description: In this episode, Josh Howard and Jason Ishmael tackle a common misconception: that disciple making is better suited for extroverts. They break down how both extroverts and introverts bring unique strengths to the mission. Breaking Stereotypes Extroverts are often seen as natural disciple makers because they thrive in social settings, while introverts may feel they don't fit the mold. But Josh and Jason challenge this idea, showing that disciple making isn't just about reaching many—it's about going deep. Strengths of Both Personality Types Josh, an extrovert, shares how easily he connects with people but admits he struggles to build deep relationships. Introverts, on the other hand, tend to invest deeply in a few people—something just as crucial for disciple making. Jason highlights how introverts' strength in prayer and studying the Word plays an essential role, balancing the energy extroverts bring to outreach. Biblical & Real-Life Examples Looking at Jesus' ministry, they note how He focused on a small group of disciples, proving that deep, intentional relationships drive lasting impact. They also share the story of Curtis Sargent, a highly introverted leader who has influenced millions, showing that introverts can be just as effective in ministry. The Power of Partnership Instead of working solo, Josh and Jason encourage a team approach, where extroverts and introverts complement each other—whether it's an extrovert helping an introvert meet new people or an introvert modeling spiritual depth. Final Encouragement Their message? No matter your personality, you have a role in disciple making. God designed you uniquely, and your strengths—whether in connecting widely or investing deeply—are essential to His mission.
Imagine making disciples and doing discipleship within the niche community that God has put on your heart. Lucas Pulley from Tampa Underground shares how their community does discipleship in a whole new (but simple) way. Their groups are more like teams, and they dial in on the people they are passionate about and resonate easily with. To be clear, this conversation should challenge us all to creatively rethink discipleship, disciple-making, and sharing our faith in an ordinary way. Let us know your thoughts!Ordinary Movement is a discipleship platform that equips men and women to be disciples who make disciples. Our focus is on supporting small groups led by ordinary/everyday Christians. We have specialized discipleship tracks that center around Intimacy with Jesus, Intentional Relationships, and Multiplication. Groups are designed for individuals to easily engage in leading groups.Ready to be a disciple who makes disciples?If so, come and join us!Visit ordinarymovement.com to learn more!#discipleship #disciplemaking #disciple
Episode 99 of The Waypoint Podcast is here! Dyke and Rebecca are chatting with Preston Conder, a passionate disciple-making enthusiast and campus pastor at New Life Christian Church—where the mission is to make disciples who make disciples who make disciples. Preston brings a strategic, coaching-driven approach shaped by his years in the football world, offering practical insights and inspiration for multiplying disciples in any context. This is a powerful conversation designed to encourage and equip you as you catalyze kingdom growth. Don't miss it!Register for upcoming Art of the Sermon here:waypointchurchpartners.com/eventsConnect with Preston at prestonc@newlife.churchRemember you can always find us atwaypointchurchpartners.comFollow us atfacebook.com/WaypointChurchPartnersinstagram @waypointchurchpartnersThe Waypoint Podcast is hosted and produced by Dyke McCordhosted, produced, and edited by Rebecca HottIf you want to find out more about supporting Waypoint Church Plants head toiplantchurches.comRegister for future Waypoint Events or reach out to any of our Staff!
On this episode Cynthia talks with Steven and Jenn, disciple multipliers working in Thailand about how to build and multiply a team, find local partners, and about the importance of abiding in Jesus. Learn more at their website: missionsleaders.com
We're back with the latest episode of our series, "Offstage": A sneak peek into the lives, ministries, and passions of our EDM '25 keynote speakers. Robel Chemeda Disasa shares his journey, from a university student to a leader mobilizing others for Christ in Ethiopia. Through his experiences in evangelism, discipleship, and missions, we see the transformative power of a life dedicated to God's global purpose.
Ever wondered how to do discipleship and disciple-making in your ordinary life and everyday community? We have too! So we brought Dan on the show to share how we can engage in intentional discipleship, being disciples who make disciples. Check it out and let us know what was most helpful from the show! Ordinary Movement is a discipleship platform that equips men and women to be disciples who make disciples. Our focus is on supporting small groups led by ordinary/everyday Christians. We have specialized discipleship tracks that center around Intimacy with Jesus, Intentional Relationships, and Multiplication. Groups are designed for individuals to easily engage in leading groups. Ready to be a disciple who makes disciples? If so, come and join us! Visit ordinarymovement.com to learn more! #discipleship #disciplemaking #disciple
In this episode, Brian and Cory explore the paradigm shift of thinking about obedience over knowledge in disciple-making. It's not that we want to ignore knowledge. We just want to emphasize that transformation does not come from knowledge alone. True maturity in Jesus involves not only knowing about Jesus, but doing as Jesus did. We've rooted so much of our disciple-making in the West in classroom environments. Jesus rooted disciple-making in lived experiences where his followers learned to do what He called them to do as they ushered in the Kingdom of God.
Our prayer for 2025 is that you fully experience the hope, grace, mercy and peace that only Jesus Christ can provide. - The Church of Eleven22® is a movement for all people to discover and deepen a relationship with Jesus Christ. Eleven22 is led by Pastor Joby Martin and based in Jacksonville, Florida, with multiple campuses throughout Jacksonville and the surrounding areas. To find out more about how God is moving at Eleven22, go to CoE22.com