Most people have never heard of Bill and Susan Smith—yet their fingerprints are on more disciple-making movements than anyone else in the world. In this episode, I share their story, what I’ve learned from them, and a surprising realization: the goal has never been movements. It’s always been lost people finding Jesus.Learn more about how God is multiplying disciples and churches in America from my book Movements in America (find the book HERE) This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit movementsinamerica.substack.com
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"But what do you do about teaching in movements?"
In disciple-making movements in America, developing elders isn’t just an afterthought—it’s essential for sustaining growth and health. In this episode, I share lessons learned, mistakes made, and insights gained from raising up shepherds who can lead simple churches well. If you care about multiplying leaders who will guard the flock and advance the mission, this conversation is for you.Learn more about how God is multiplying disciples and churches in America from my book Movements in America ->Get the book HERE This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit movementsinamerica.substack.com
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What I Wish I Knew 5 Years Ago
In this episode, I reflect on five years of ministry in Raleigh-Durham after 3.5 foundational years in Houston. I share key lessons the Lord has taught me about leadership development, elder training, building a church of churches, and why true networking starts with friendship. Whether you're pioneering a movement or just trying to take the next step in making disciples who make disciples, I pray these reflections will encourage and equip you on the journey.Learn more about how God is multiplying disciples and churches in America from my book Movements in America (find the book HERE) This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit movementsinamerica.substack.com
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What I Would Have Changed If I Could Start Again
In this episode, I reflect on my years helping to start churches and train leaders in Houston—what worked, what didn’t, and what I’d do differently if I could start over. From raising leaders too quickly to rethinking oikos evangelism and the role of apostolic leaders, this is an honest look at the real challenges behind trying to spark a disciple-making movement in an American city—and what Scripture and experience have taught me along the way.Learn more about how God is multiplying disciples and churches in America from my book Movements in America (find the book HERE) This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit movementsinamerica.substack.com
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Christianity in America Has a Discipleship Problem, Not Just a Numbers Problem
I don’t like being negative, but I do care about being honest. In this episode, I share some sobering stats about the state of Christianity in America—from sexual ethics and generosity to church dropout rates—and why they reveal a deeper problem: we’re not actually making disciples.I also talk about what Jesus modeled—and why I believe a return to His way of life and disciple-making is the only real path forward.Learn more about how God is multiplying disciples and churches in America from my book Movements in America (find the book HERE) This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit movementsinamerica.substack.com
Welcome to the audio companion to my Substack, Movements in America. Join me as I explore the principles, practices, and emerging trends shaping disciple-making and church-planting movements across the United States. movementsinamerica.substack.com
New Zealand