New Churches Podcast

In this episode of the New Churches podcast, host Noah Oldham is joined by Adam Muhtaseb and Matt Smethurst to tackle a crucial but often overlooked aspect of church planting: How do I build systems? Using the image of a trellis supporting a growing vine, the conversation highlights how intentional structures help church plants thrive, remain healthy, and bear lasting fruit. Together, they explore why guest follow-up is an essential early system for cultivating meaningful connections, the importance of establishing clear constitutions and bylaws for long-term stability and accountability, and how planters can wisely navigate the often overwhelming world of church technology. Listeners will walk away with practical insights, pastoral wisdom, and a renewed appreciation for the “trellis work” that supports vibrant, sustainable ministry.

(00:24:01) Why is guest follow-up important? How do you do it?

(11:00:02) How should church planters think about constitution and bylaws?

(18:21:21) How does a church planter pick the right technology?

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In this episode of the New Churches podcast, host Tony Merida is joined by Matt Smethurst and Daniel Santander to discuss one of the most essential tasks of a church planter: making disciples. As part of a season focused on answering common questions from planters, the conversation explores how to faithfully pursue discipleship in a new church in 21st-century North America. The hosts talk about how to disciple new believers in a church plant, why church membership should be a priority from the beginning, and how to wisely launch key ministries like small groups, children’s ministry, and men’s and women’s discipleship. Listeners will gain practical guidance and pastoral wisdom for cultivating a healthy culture of disciple-making in the life of a new church.

(00:24:01) How do you disciple new converts?

(06:32:16) What are the best practices for a church membership process?

(21:06:04) How do you start groups and ministries?

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In this episode of the New Churches podcast, host Jeff Medders is joined by Tony Merida and Matt Smethurst to answer a question many church planters wrestle with: How do I preach engaging sermons? As part of a season focused on the most common “how” questions in church planting, the conversation explores what it really means for preaching to be engaging—not entertaining or gimmicky, but clear, compelling, and faithful to Scripture. Jeff, Tony, and Matt discuss their sermon preparation rhythms, common mistakes planters can make in their study, and why deep work in the text is essential for preaching that connects with people. Drawing on pastoral experience and insights from historic voices like Spurgeon, they also offer practical encouragement for holding a congregation’s attention while remaining sound, biblical, and Christ-centered in every sermon. Listeners will walk away with helpful perspective on sermon preparation, clarity about the goal of engaging preaching, and practical wisdom for faithfully proclaiming God’s Word week after week.

(00:24:01) What do we mean by “engaging”? What do we not mean?

(05:53:10) What are some elements of engaging preaching?

(09:50:19) How do you study for sermons?

(21:04:17) What is your approach for illustrations? 

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In this episode of the New Churches podcast, host Noah Oldham is joined by Adam Muhtaseb and Vergil Brown to answer two of the most common—and often most stressful—questions church planters face: How do I raise money, and how do I find a space? Continuing the season’s focus on the “how” of church planting, the conversation offers practical guidance on building financial support, creating a healthy and realistic budget, and securing the right rental facility. Listeners will gain clear, actionable insight to help them raise funds faithfully, steward resources wisely, and choose a space that supports their mission.

(00:24:01) What is the best way for a church planter to raise support?

(17:02:21) How should a planter think about a budget? 

(27:02:22) How do I find a space? 

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In this episode of the New Churches podcast, host Tony Merida is joined by Vergil Brown and Jeff Medders to tackle a crucial question for church planters: How do I faithfully engage my city with the hope of the gospel? As part of a season focused on the practical “how” questions of church planting, this conversation explores the essential heart shift that must take place in a planter—moving from simply leading a church to living as a missionary in their context. The discussion offers encouragement on personal evangelism, cultivating meaningful relationships, and proclaiming Christ with clarity and compassion. The guests also provide practical coaching on identifying domains of influence, forming wise community partnerships, and serving the city without losing gospel focus. Listeners will come away with biblical vision, practical strategies, and fresh encouragement for engaging their city with intentionality and hope.

(00:24:01) 1st question: How can a planter think and act like a missionary?

(08:29:19) 2nd question: What’s your best advice and encouragement on how to evangelize?

(22:41:00) 3rd question: How do you find your domains of influence and wise partnerships?

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