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
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Why Christianity in America is in Worse Shape Than You Think
Is Christianity in America really stabilizing—or are we just telling ourselves it is? In this episode, I explore recent data on religious affiliation and church attendance, dig into the surprising gap between what Christians say and what they actually do, and share why these numbers are fueling my passion to pursue disciple-making movements across the country. If you care about the future of the Church in America, this episode is for you.Get The Book (Audiobook) 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 Sets Apart the Most Fruitful Disciple Making Movement Leaders in the U.S.?
What makes some church-planting leaders far more effective than others? In this episode, I dive into firsthand insights from the most fruitful movement leaders in the U.S.—those who have seen true multiplication. What do they do differently? From deep abiding in Christ to the strategic use of tools, from bold gospel-sharing to the tough decisions that fuel growth, we uncover the key factors that separate multiplication from stagnation. Whether you’re planting churches, making disciples, or just passionate about seeing the gospel spread, this episode is packed with practical wisdom!Get The Book | Pray | Donate 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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How to Start a Simple Church in a Suburban Neighborhood
How do you start a simple church in a suburban neighborhood? In this episode, we sit down with Steve and Paula, who share their journey of building a faith community right in their home. From neighborhood cookouts to Bible studies and intentional hospitality, they reveal practical steps for reaching the unchurched and implementing disciple-making movement strategies. If you're wondering how to bring church to where you live, this conversation is packed with insights and inspiration.This podcast is a bit different than what I usually post on this Substack, but I think it will be a blessing to you as it has been for me.Get The Book | Pray | Donate 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
Listen to Movements in America Substack Audio, The Bible in a Year (with Fr. Mike Schmitz) and many other podcasts from around the world with the radio.net app
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