If the mission of the church is to make disciples who multiply, why are so many leaders stuck in systems that don’t? In this episode, Glenn Underhill and Craig Etheredge sit down with special guest Zach Towery to unpack a game-changing truth: church multiplication doesn’t happen through programs – it happens through intentional disciple-making groups.
With some laughter (and Topo Chico in hand), the team dives into what truly sets a disciple-making group apart from a typical Bible study or small group. You’ll discover why these high-commitment, life-on-life environments are essential for personal transformation, gospel conviction, and long-term multiplication.
They’ll share practical insights on how to start these groups, the power of modeling and accountability, and why having a reproducible pathway – like the Grow Series – can help create a multiplying movement within your church.
Whether you’re a pastor, ministry leader, or someone passionate about raising up others, this episode will equip you with clear next steps, real-life examples, and the encouragement to stay focused on what matters most: making disciples who make disciples.
So grab your “preachy water,” settle in, and let’s rediscover the kind of disciple-making that changes lives—and churches—for generations to come.
Overview:
- 00:00 “Disciple Making and Grow Series”
- 06:33 Building Commitment in Church Life
- 14:50 Disciple Making Group Distinctions
- 19:29 “Modeling: Key to True Transformation”
- 25:52 Evaluating Readiness for Commitment
- 29:07 Disciple Making vs. Small Groups
- 35:10 Building Brotherhood Through Engaged Fellowship
- 42:07 “Disciple-Making Groups & Tools Debate”
- 46:11 Empowering Disciple-Making Through Tools
- 50:35 “Discipleship Strategy and Group Leadership”
- 58:31 “Gratitude and Discipleship Tools”
- 01:00:34 “Discounts & Partner Pricing Info”
Discussion Questions:
- The hosts discuss the importance of disciple-making groups in developing commitment and conviction within church members. Why do you think these groups can produce a deeper level of commitment compared to traditional church activities?
- Can you recall a time when someone challenged you to a greater commitment in your faith journey? How did it impact you?
- Why do you think simply teaching information is not enough for spiritual growth?
- The Grow series emphasizes both character (heart) and competencies (skills) in disciple-making. In your opinion, is one more challenging to develop than the other? Why?
- Have you ever had a mentor or someone model spiritual disciplines for you? How did that affect your growth?
- What are some unique challenges churches face in moving people from involvement in open small groups to the higher commitment of disciple-making groups?
- Do you agree that a tool is necessary for effective multiplication? Why or why not?
- What qualities or signs do you think indicate someone is ready for this level of investment?
- What do you see as the benefits and potential drawbacks of keeping groups small and closed?
- How might this more personal approach to invitation change the culture of discipleship in a church setting?
