Welcome to a special live episode of the Disciple-Making Leader Podcast, recorded at The Collective – a gathering celebrating what God is doing through disciple-making leaders across diverse contexts.
In this episode, you’ll hear from Glenn Underhill, Executive Pastor at CrossCreek Church, as he shares his disciple-making philosophy and powerful stories of multigenerational impact rooted in personal investment. You’ll also meet JT Thornton, lead pastor in Sweetwater, Texas, who talks about discipling high school football players, caring for pastors, and launching his new ministry, Catalyst 645, designed to help leaders stay spiritually healthy so they can make disciples for the long haul.
This conversation is honest, encouraging, and grounded in real-life ministry – highlighting what it looks like to make disciples like Jesus wherever God has placed you. We invite you into the conversation.
Overview:
- 00:00 “Cross Creek Collective Overview”
- 04:07 “Glenn Underhill & Pastor JT”
- 07:38 “Celebrating Disciple-Making Leaders”
- 13:17 “Making Disciples for Life”
- 13:41 “Modeling Life After Jesus”
- 17:35 “Keep Fighting, Stay Strong”
- 22:33 “Small-Town Pastor Reflections”
- 26:00 “Foundation of Loving God Fully”
- 28:00 “Connect and Learn Resources”
Discussion Questions:
- What stood out to you about the origins and purpose of the Cross Creek Collective event that has been described?
- How did the hosts view the impact of bringing together diverse leaders and ministries from around the world?
- In what ways do you think the principles of making disciples “Jesus’ way” can transcend cultural and geographical contexts, as discussed in the episode?
- One of the hosts mentioned that even if he were selling Subarus, he’d be making disciples. What does this statement mean to you in terms of living out disciple-making in everyday life?
- Why do you think personal investment in others is so important in leadership?
- The episode highlights the transformation stories from disciple-making. Which story resonated with you the most, and why?
- How does the host’s approach to chaplaincy in a small town reflect broader principles of relational ministry?
- The hosts and guests talked about “pastor health” and the need for leaders to pursue health for themselves and their families. What do you think are practical steps pastors can take to avoid burnout?
- What did you learn from the multi-generational impact of disciple-making efforts, as recognized by other podcast hosts?
- How does the new Catalyst 645 initiative seek to support and encourage emerging pastors and ministry leaders?
