In this episode, we dive into the power of the synergy between disciple-making and church planting, featuring hosts Ben Borgman and Craig Etheredge alongside special guest Clay Holcomb, Executive Director of CrossCreek Network. Together, we’ll explore how church planters can overcome cultural barriers utilizing the methods and model of Jesus—whether in West Africa, Israel, Cambodia, or North America. Jesus had a heart for people, invested in others to multiply himself and grow disciples who share the same mission …and so should we.
Together, we’ll explore how a biblical approach to church planting transcends cultural barriers—whether in West Africa, Israel, Cambodia, or North America. The model Jesus gave us for making disciples is universal. It works because it’s focused on developing people and building community through His example.
Our guest will shed light on how to overcome challenges when implementing this strategy across different contexts. We’ll also break the myth that disciple-making is anti-evangelism. On the contrary, we’ll show you how making disciples and sharing the gospel go hand-in-hand, resulting in true, multiplying church growth.
You’ll hear real stories from the Cross Creek Network, showcasing the global impact of using Jesus’ method of disciple-making. And we’ll discuss the critical need for new churches, especially in the rapidly secularizing landscapes of North America and Europe.
Whether you’re a seasoned church planter or just starting to explore how disciple-making integrates into church planting, this episode offers practical insights, inspiring stories, and a renewed focus on Jesus as our model for both life and ministry.
Overview:
- 00:00 Married 30 years, planted churches, raised family.
- 06:44 Holistic church planting versus inward-focused disciple making.
- 08:04 Discipleship perceived as hindering evangelism efforts.
- 12:03 Success in church plants relies on community feeling.
- 15:25 Biblical church model must work universally.
- 19:41 Adopting church planters seeking new disciple-making model.
- 21:32 Desperately wicked history drives urgent church planting.
- 27:18 Plant 12 disciple-making church planting hubs globally.
- 30:36 Church planters are exceptional and valuable leaders.
- 34:11 Meeting my heroes and learning from them.
- 35:33 Content adopted quickly, reshaped young church structure.
- 38:37 First HUB meeting established core movements globally.
- 43:55 God blesses churches dedicated to his mission.
- 46:30 Limited-time NYC church plant immersion; partnership opportunity.
Discussion Questions:
- How can church planting strategies be adapted to ensure they are applicable and effective globally, considering different cultural contexts such as those in West Africa, Israel, and North America?
- What are the key elements of Jesus’ disciple-making model that make it universally applicable across various cultures and societies?
- What operational challenges do church planters face when working in diverse regions, and how can focusing on core biblical principles help overcome these challenges?
- Why has there been a misconception that discipleship hinders evangelism, and how can disciple-making actually enhance evangelistic efforts?
- What are some effective strategies for identifying and nurturing leaders within a new church plant?
- How can church planters stay true to Jesus’ path while navigating the rapid secularization and cultural changes in modern society?
- How can church plants balance these two elements to foster both spiritual growth and community expansion?
- What are the benefits of collaborating with networks such as Cross Creek for church planters, and how can these networks support church revitalization and disciple-making efforts globally?
- What are some innovative approaches for establishing and growing disciple-making churches in these contexts?
- How can small church pastors engage in the Great Commission effectively, and what resources or partnerships (e.g., with Cross Creek Network) can support their efforts in disciple-making and church planting?
