The Disciple Maker‘s Podcast

Leading From the Front

Join us at the 2025 National Disciple Making Forum: https://discipleship.org/national-disciple-making-forum/ 
 
Check out Discipleship.org for resources on disciple-making: https://discipleship.org/resources/ 
Today’s episode will help us embrace authentic disciple-making by leading from the front, aligning our actions with our faith, and relying on the Holy Spirit for daily obedience.
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Leading by Example: Principle #3 of Disciple Making
 
In this episode of 'The Makers of Disciples' podcast, we delve into the third principle of disciple making: leaders must lead from the front and model disciple making. Hosts discuss the challenges of practicing what is preached, the importance of personal and public alignment, and how to combat the dangers of 'charade mode.' Drawing upon personal anecdotes, biblical teachings, and the transformative power of living authentically, this discussion is a call to action for church leaders and individuals alike to repent, realign, and genuinely live out the teachings of Jesus. Join the conversation to be inspired and equipped to model true disciple making in your own community.
 
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Key Takeaways 
 
00:00 Introduction and Welcome
01:05 Principle Three: Leading from the Front
01:52 The Challenge of Authentic Leadership
04:48 The Danger of the Charade
09:39 Alexander the Great's Lesson
14:52 Reflecting on Missed Opportunities
15:28 Choosing Priorities Over God's Commands
16:37 Awakening to Reality: The Matrix Analogy
17:52 Modeling Discipleship in Everyday Life
19:17 Rediscovering Ancient Principles
20:36 The Power of Scripture and Jesus' Teachings
25:58 The Importance of Repentance
28:38 Striving for Obedience and Dependence on God
29:38 Closing Thoughts and Prayer
 
Check out our Blogs: https://discipleship.org/blog/ 
See Below for a longer description:
In this episode of the Makers of Disciples podcast, Josh Howard and Jason Ishmael dive into Principle 3: Leading From the Front—the tough but essential call for leaders to model disciple-making, not just talk about it.
They kick off with some lighthearted banter before getting real about the challenge of practicing what you preach. They revisit the first two principles: reclaiming disciple-making as the church’s core mission and having a clear, biblical definition of discipleship. But this third principle? It’s where the rubber meets the road.
Josh shares a hard truth—many church leaders, behind closed doors, admit they’re not actively leading people to faith outside of the pulpit. This gap between what’s preached and what’s practiced creates what they call “charade mode”—a dangerous disconnect where leaders appear to be disciple-makers but aren’t living it out.
The discussion gets practical. Jesus warned against performing faith for show, and Josh and Jason emphasize that leading from the front means real, everyday disciple-making. It’s not just for pastors—every Christian is called to model it at home, at work, and in their communities.
They illustrate this with a powerful story about Alexander the Great. When a young soldier named Alexander fled from battle, the general told him: Change your name or change your ways. The message? If we call ourselves disciples of Jesus, we need to live like it.
Josh highlights the need for daily repentance—not just for major sins, but as a constant realignment with Jesus. Jason stresses soaking in the Gospels, letting Jesus’ life shape our own. They remind listeners that disciple-making isn’t about striving alone; it’s fueled by the Holy Spirit, who empowers believers to walk this out every day.
They also acknowledge the internal struggle—Paul himself wrestled with doing what’s right (Romans 7). But leaning on God's grace and being intentional about obedience is the key.
As the episode wraps up, Josh challenges listeners to commit to modeling disciple-making and tell someone for accountability. Jason encourages leaning into God’s help and staying rooted in His Word. They close with a powerful prayer, asking God to bring conviction, expose what needs to change, and strengthen hearts for the journey ahead.
At its core, this episode is a call to authentic, everyday disciple-making—not as a concept, but as a lifestyle.

Definition of Disciple Making

Join us at the 2025 National Disciple Making Forum: https://discipleship.org/national-disciple-making-forum/ 
Check out Discipleship.org for resources on disciple-making: https://discipleship.org/resources/ 
 
What is a Disciple?
A disciple is someone following Jesus, being changed by Jesus, and joining the mission of Jesus.
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The Disciple Makers Podcast: Understanding Clear Biblical Definitions
 
In this episode of the Disciple Makers Podcast, hosts delve into the second principle of disciple making: the importance of using clear biblical definitions. Featuring mega church pastor Jason Ishmael and prolific disciple maker Josh Howard, this episode explores what it truly means to be a disciple and the transformative journey of following Jesus. The hosts discuss the definitions from Matthew 4:19, emphasizing the three core components of being a disciple: following Jesus, being changed by Jesus, and joining Jesus's mission. They also examine the implications for church leaders and the necessity of creating pathways that lead to effective disciple making. The episode concludes with practical advice for stepping out in faith and taking actionable steps to live out these principles. For more resources, visit discipleship.org and join upcoming events for further learning.
 
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Key Takeaways 
 
00:00 Introduction to the Disciple Makers Podcast
00:54 Defining Disciple Making
02:20 The Core Mission of Disciple Making
02:54 The Transformative Work of Jesus
06:12 The Cost and Worth of Following Jesus
12:57 Personal Reflection on Discipleship
13:41 Personal Reflection on Discipleship
13:57 Challenges for Church Leaders
14:14 Defining Discipleship
15:33 Head, Heart, and Hands Discipleship
16:28 The Power of Clear Definitions
17:22 The Reality of Change
19:40 Disciple Making Defined
23:28 Practical Steps for Disciple Making
28:25 Encouragement and Resources
 
Check out our Blogs: https://discipleship.org/blog/ 
See Below for a longer description:
Defining Disciple-Making
In this episode of the Disciple Makers Podcast, Josh Howard and Jason Ishmael explore the second disciple-making principle: the importance of clear biblical definitions. Their lighthearted yet insightful conversation focuses on what it means to be a disciple and the core responsibilities involved in disciple-making.
Why Clear Definitions Matter
Josh emphasizes that without a clear definition of discipleship, confusion and inconsistency arise. He notes that asking 100 Christians for their definition of a disciple would likely yield 100 different answers. Clarity, he argues, is essential for effective disciple-making.
What is a Disciple?
A disciple is someone following Jesus, being changed by Jesus, and joining the mission of Jesus.
Josh breaks this down into three key components—following, transformation, and mission—highlighting their central role in discipleship.
Day-One Calling and Transformation
Jason reflects on Jesus's call to His first disciples in Matthew 4:19, stressing that this transformative calling happened on day one—not after years of refinement. Following Jesus involves an ongoing process of change and closeness to Him.
Challenges in Modern Christianity
Josh points out that many Christians treat following and being transformed by Jesus as optional. He urges believers to move beyond shallow engagement and pursue genuine transformation through repentance, confession, and surrender.
Head, Heart, and Hands Discipleship
Jason shares Bobby Harrington’s framework for holistic discipleship:
Head: Intellectual surrender to Jesus
Heart: Experiencing transformation
Hands: Actively engaging in Jesus's mission
This framework aligns with the greatest commandment—to love God with all heart, mind, soul, and strength—and provides a balanced approach to discipleship.
Defining Disciple-Making
Jason underscores that disciple-making is intentional and relational. It’s about forming meaningful relationships that help others follow Jesus, experience transformation, and engage in His mission.
Practical Steps for Church Leaders
Josh and Jason challenge church leaders to develop clear, actionable discipleship plans—and ensure they’re implemented effectively. They stress the importance of guiding believers through intentional spiritual growth.
 
Overcoming Fear and Stagnation
Jason acknowledges the fear many feel about stepping into disciple-making roles. Josh encourages listeners to embrace the process, trusting that God works through imperfections and initial missteps.
Motivating Believers
The hosts share strategies to engage believers, using personal stories and biblical examples to highlight the life-changing impact of true discipleship.
Next Steps
Josh recommends practical ways for listeners to evaluate their discipleship journey and create simple pathways for growth. He closes with an invitation to explore resources at discipleship.org and engage with the disciple-making community.
Conclusion:
This episode challenges believers and church leaders to define discipleship clearly and pursue intentional, relational disciple-making aligned with Jesus's mission. The hosts balance theological depth with practical advice, leaving listeners equipped and inspired.

Disciple-Making as the Core Mission of the Church

Come to the 2025 National Disciple Making Forum: https://discipleship.org/
 
Check out Discipleship.org for resources on disciple-making: https://discipleship.org/resources/ 
Today’s episode will help us understand why disciple-making should be the church’s core mission and how we can integrate it into our daily lives through prayer, intentional relationships, and simple, faithful steps.
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Disciple Making: Making It the Core Mission 
Welcome back to the Disciple Maker's Podcast! In this episode, hosts Josh Howard and Jason Ishmael embark on a new series focusing on the '10 Core Principles of Disciple Making.' This episode dives into making disciple making the core mission of the church. Jason and Josh discuss why it's important to remind the church and individuals that disciple making should be the core mission. They share personal stories, confront the common disconnect between knowledge and action, and provide practical steps on how to make disciple making integral in our personal lives and within the church. Join us as we explore the significance of intentionality, prayer, and the importance of hands-on disciple making. Stay tuned for more insights and real-life stories aimed at equipping you to fulfill the Great Commission. Don't miss out on the details of upcoming events, including the Discipleship.org National Disciple Making Forum in Houston, Texas.
 
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Key Takeaways 
 
00:00 Introduction and Banter
01:04 Introducing the 10 Core Principles of Disciple Making
01:41 Principle 1: Making Disciple Making the Core Mission
03:24 Challenges in Prioritizing Disciple Making
04:42 Personal Stories and Practical Applications
05:56 The Importance of Personal Commitment
10:29 Evangelism and Disciple Making: A Unified Mission
11:49 Practical Steps for Effective Disciple Making
17:05 Conviction and Commitment to Prayer
17:49 Praying for a Doctor Friend
19:25 Overcoming Fear to Pray
20:33 A Miraculous Healing
22:26 The Power of Intentional Prayer
24:20 Facing Rejection in Evangelism
27:38 Encouragement to Make Disciples
29:48 Final Thoughts and Call to Action
 
Check out our Blogs: https://discipleship.org/blog/ 
See Below for a longer description:
In the first episode of the Disciple Maker’s Podcast, hosts Josh Howard and Jason Ishmael dive into the heart of disciple-making, breaking it down in a way that’s both practical and relatable. They kick things off with some lighthearted banter before getting serious about their core message: making disciple-making the central mission of both the church and individual believers.
Josh introduces the podcast’s framework—10 Core Principles of Disciple-Making—developed by him and Bobby Harrington. Each episode will unpack one principle, starting with the foundational idea: disciple-making must be the church’s primary focus. While this seems obvious, they acknowledge that many churches still struggle to put it into practice.
Jason challenges the audience by pointing out the gap between knowing disciple-making is essential and actually doing it. He shares his own struggles in aligning his life with Jesus’ teachings—like when his wife’s blunt question about tithing revealed an area he hadn’t fully surrendered. Moments like these highlight how disciple-making isn’t just for pastors—it’s a calling for every believer.
The conversation turns to practical steps. Josh and Jason emphasize that disciple-making isn’t a lofty goal but something woven into everyday life. Josh shares a personal story about being convicted for not praying for non-believers, leading him and his wife to start praying daily. This simple act opened doors, including a surprising ministry opportunity with a previously resistant doctor.
They stress that disciple-making happens in small, intentional relationships—"ones, twos, and threes," not massive crowds. It’s about praying for people by name, being available, and stepping out in faith. They also tackle the misconception that evangelism and discipleship are separate tasks, reinforcing that Jesus saw them as one mission: leading people to faith and maturity.
Before wrapping up, they preview a major study on thriving disciple-making churches, which will be shared at an event in Houston, Texas. Their final challenge? Don’t overcomplicate it. Trust God, take small faithful steps, and make disciple-making a natural part of life.
This episode is both inspiring and practical—packed with real stories, honest struggles, and clear next steps for anyone looking to live out the Great Commission.
In the first episode of the Disciple Maker’s Podcast, hosts Josh Howard and Jason Ishmael dive into the heart of disciple-making, breaking it down in a way that’s both practical and relatable. They kick things off with some lighthearted banter before getting serious about their core message: making disciple-making the central mission of both the church and individual believers.
Josh introduces the podcast’s framework—10 Core Principles of Disciple-Making—developed by him and Bobby Harrington. Each episode will unpack one principle, starting with the foundational idea: disciple-making must be the church’s primary focus. While this seems obvious, they acknowledge that many churches still struggle to put it into practice.
Jason challenges the audience by pointing out the gap between knowing disciple-making is essential and actually doing it. He shares his own struggles in aligning his life with Jesus’ teachings—like when his wife’s blunt question about tithing revealed an area he hadn’t fully surrendered. Moments like these highlight how disciple-making isn’t just for pastors—it’s a calling for every believer.
The conversation turns to practical steps. Josh and Jason emphasize that disciple-making isn’t a lofty goal but something woven into everyday life. Josh shares a personal story about being convicted for not praying for non-believers, leading him and his wife to start praying daily. This simple act opened doors, including a surprising ministry opportunity with a previously resistant doctor.
They stress that disciple-making happens in small, intentional relationships—"ones, twos, and threes," not massive crowds. It’s about praying for people by name, being available, and stepping out in faith. They also tackle the misconception that evangelism and discipleship are separate tasks, reinforcing that Jesus saw them as one mission: leading people to faith and maturity.
Before wrapping up, they preview a major study on thriving disciple-making churches, which will be shared at an event in Houston, Texas. Their final challenge? Don’t overcomplicate it. Trust God, take small faithful steps, and make disciple-making a natural part of life.
This episode is both inspiring and practical—packed with real stories, honest struggles, and clear next steps for anyone looking to live out the Great Commission.

Shifting Church Culture Towards Disciple-Making

Check out Discipleship.org for resources on disciple-making: https://discipleship.org/resources/ 
Today’s episode will help us understand why most churches struggle with disciple-making, how culture—not just strategy—is the key to change, and what practical steps leaders can take to spark a movement.
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Creating a Disciple-Making Culture: Insights and Strategies from Experts
Join hosts Josh Howard and Jason Ishmael in this exciting episode of the Disciple Makers Podcast as they discuss a recent study revealing that less than 5% of churches in America have a functional disciple-making culture. The hosts dive into their mission to elevate this percentage to 16%, as inspired by Malcolm Gladwell's 'Tipping Point.' Learn about the importance of shifting church culture toward disciple-making, practical tips for leaders, and the significance of leading by example. This episode is packed with insights, personal anecdotes, and practical strategies to inspire and equip churches and individuals to become effective disciple-makers. Don't miss this engaging and informative discussion!
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Key Takeaways 
00:00 Introduction and Hosts Banter
01:23 The Disciple Making Study
02:15 The 16 Percent Goal
03:31 Challenges in Shifting Church Culture
05:17 Personal Experiences and Sarcasm
08:28 The Reality of Church Culture
13:47 Practical Steps for Culture Shift
19:52 Consumerism in Church Culture
21:11 Leadership Starts with Us
22:00 The Power of Discipleship
23:51 Catalysts and Early Adopters
26:49 Failing Forward in Ministry
28:36 Celebrating Small Wins
30:51 Real Ministry and Making Disciples
37:08 Encouragement and Resources
Check out our Blogs: https://discipleship.org/blog/ 
See Below for a longer description:
Disciple Makers Podcast: Shifting Church Culture Towards Disciple-Making
In this episode, hosts Josh Howard and Jason Ishmael tackle the challenge of building a true disciple-making culture in churches. With years of ministry experience, they have an honest, practical conversation about why so many churches struggle—and what it takes to turn things around.
Josh shares a startling stat from Discipleship.org—less than 5% of American churches have a functioning disciple-making culture. The problem isn’t a lack of knowledge but a lack of implementation. They explore how church culture, more than strategy or programs, is the key factor holding disciple-making back.
Josh and Jason unpack Discipleship.org’s vision: increasing that 5% to 16%. Drawing from Malcolm Gladwell’s “tipping point” concept, they explain that once 16% of churches embrace disciple-making, it can trigger a larger movement across the country.
The issue isn’t that people don’t know how to make disciples—it’s that they don’t want to. Josh and Jason stress that real change happens when disciple-making becomes embedded in a church’s DNA, not just another ministry program.
Jason shares how his Iowa church is reshaping its culture—turning every ministry into a disciple-making opportunity. Whether serving coffee or leading worship, everything is intentionally tied to discipleship.
Josh reminds leaders that culture starts at the top. Leaders must model disciple-making, celebrate progress (not just success), and reinforce the mission constantly.
The hosts emphasize the importance of celebrating even small disciple-making efforts. They introduce the idea of “sucking forward”—embracing failures as part of the journey and encouraging leaders to keep pushing forward.
Josh and Jason challenge leaders to be among the first to embrace disciple-making, even before it’s mainstream. These pioneers will be key to hitting the 16% tipping point and sparking a larger movement.
Josh closes with a powerful analogy: Leaders shouldn’t just measure church culture; they should set it. Shaping a disciple-making culture requires intentional action, not passive observation.
The episode wraps up with an invitation to engage with Discipleship.org for resources and support. Josh and Jason also invite listeners to their upcoming forum in Houston, where they’ll continue the conversation and equip leaders for disciple-making.

Why Disciple Making Needs Both Extroverts AND Introverts

Check out Discipleship.org for resources on disciple-making: https://discipleship.org/resources/ 
Today’s episode will help us understand how both extroverts and introverts play vital roles in disciple making and how their unique strengths can complement each other for greater impact.
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Introverts and Extroverts in Disciple Making | Disciple Makers Podcast
In this engaging episode of the Disciple Makers podcast, hosts Josh Howard and Jason Ishmael dive into a crucial topic often overlooked in disciple making: the unique roles of introverts and extroverts. They explore the feedback and misconceptions surrounding introverts' contributions to disciple making and highlight the significant and complementary gifts present in both personality types. The discussion also includes insights on global personality studies and how these findings can enhance the effectiveness of ministry strategies. By reflecting on biblical examples and modern-day stories, they emphasize the importance of relational generosity and encourage every listener, regardless of their personality, to recognize their value in God's mission. Whether you're an introvert or an extrovert, this episode aims to inspire and equip you to make a profound impact through discipleship.
 
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Key Takeaways 
00:00 Introduction 
00:20 Introverts vs Extroverts in Disciple Making
01:14 The Role of Extroverts in Ministry
03:08 The Importance of Introverts in Ministry
03:58 Global Personality Research
05:03 Understanding Energy Sources
06:09 Strengths and Weaknesses of Extroverts and Introverts
10:10 Jesus' Model of Discipleship
15:32 Unseen Parts of the Body of Christ
17:09 Encouragement for Introverts
18:13 Curtis Sargent: The Introverted Mentor
19:59 The Unsung Heroes of Discipleship
21:58 Embracing Your Unique Gifts
23:00 Challenging Traditional Church Norms
25:17 The Beauty of Diverse Contributions
28:04 Valuing Different Personalities in Discipleship
32:35 Final Thoughts and Encouragement
Check out our Blogs: https://discipleship.org/blog/ 
 
See Below for a longer description:
In this episode, Josh Howard and Jason Ishmael tackle a common misconception: that disciple making is better suited for extroverts. They break down how both extroverts and introverts bring unique strengths to the mission.
Breaking Stereotypes
Extroverts are often seen as natural disciple makers because they thrive in social settings, while introverts may feel they don’t fit the mold. But Josh and Jason challenge this idea, showing that disciple making isn't just about reaching many—it’s about going deep.
Strengths of Both Personality Types
Josh, an extrovert, shares how easily he connects with people but admits he struggles to build deep relationships. Introverts, on the other hand, tend to invest deeply in a few people—something just as crucial for disciple making. Jason highlights how introverts’ strength in prayer and studying the Word plays an essential role, balancing the energy extroverts bring to outreach.
Biblical & Real-Life Examples
Looking at Jesus’ ministry, they note how He focused on a small group of disciples, proving that deep, intentional relationships drive lasting impact. They also share the story of Curtis Sargent, a highly introverted leader who has influenced millions, showing that introverts can be just as effective in ministry.
The Power of Partnership
Instead of working solo, Josh and Jason encourage a team approach, where extroverts and introverts complement each other—whether it’s an extrovert helping an introvert meet new people or an introvert modeling spiritual depth.
Final Encouragement
Their message? No matter your personality, you have a role in disciple making. God designed you uniquely, and your strengths—whether in connecting widely or investing deeply—are essential to His mission.

Where Jesus Feet Regularly Went

Check out Discipleship.org for resources on disciple-making: https://discipleship.org/resources/ 
Today’s episode will help us understand what true discipleship looks like by embracing solitude with God, investing deeply in a few, and being ready to make significant sacrifices, just as Jesus did.
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Following Jesus' Footsteps: Intentional Discipleship and Deep Sacrifice | Disciple Makers Podcast Part 2
In this episode of the Disciple Makers Podcast, we dive deeper into understanding where Jesus' feet went, and what it means to truly follow Him. Building on the previous discussion, this part focuses on Jesus' practice of investing deeply into a few, the high cost of discipleship, and the ultimate sacrifice of the cross. Join us as we explore intentional relationships, the significance of proximity, and the profound accountability that comes with being a disciple-maker. Tune in to be challenged and inspired to follow Jesus with your whole heart, mind, and soul.
 
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Key Takeaways 
 
00:00 Welcome Back to Disciple Makers Podcast!
00:32 Recap of Part One: Following Jesus' Footsteps
01:32 The Importance of Pouring into a Few
05:00 Practical Steps for Intentional Discipleship
05:58 The Value of Proximity in Discipleship
19:47 The Ultimate Sacrifice: Following Jesus to the Cross
21:37 The Cost of Discipleship
29:29 Conclusion: Are You Ready to Follow Jesus?
31:38 Final Thoughts and Call to Action
 
Check out our Blogs: https://discipleship.org/blog/ 
See Below for a longer description:
In this episode of the Disciple Makers Podcast, Josh Howard and Jason Ishmael dive into what it really means to follow Jesus and make disciples. Their conversation is energetic, deeply rooted in scripture, and sprinkled with personal stories to bring their points to life.
They kick things off with some lighthearted banter before diving into a deeper discussion about Jesus' pattern for disciple-making. Reflecting on a previous episode, Josh and Jason talk about how Jesus balanced solitude with the Father, reached out to the lost, and deeply invested in a few key followers.
Josh emphasizes how Jesus often stepped away from the crowds to focus on His disciples, illustrating the power of investing deeply in a few rather than spreading oneself too thin. Jason highlights how meaningful impact comes from this relational approach to disciple-making, which Jesus demonstrated by pouring into a select few instead of trying to reach everyone.
The conversation then turns to the practical side of disciple-making. Josh shares how everyday activities, like driving alone, could be opportunities to invest in others. He challenges listeners to live a lifestyle where discipleship happens naturally, just as Jesus made time for His disciples wherever He went.
Next, they discuss the cross—where Jesus' footsteps ultimately lead. Josh talks about the deep sacrifice and surrender discipleship requires, including being willing to give everything, even one's life, for the mission. Jason brings in Dietrich Bonhoeffer's concept of "costly grace," critiquing the watered-down gospel often preached today that skips over the true cost of following Jesus.
Josh and Jason stress that real discipleship involves surrendering to Jesus as Lord and not just seeking forgiveness. Josh shares a powerful illustration from Francis Chan, explaining that true discipleship means giving Jesus full control of your life, not just being along for the ride.
They wrap up by encouraging listeners to reflect on their own lives and whether their actions align with Jesus' example. They challenge their audience to make intentional, meaningful discipleship a priority and to be ready for the sacrifices it requires.
This episode is a powerful reminder that true discipleship means solitude with God, reaching out to the broken, investing in a few key relationships, and being willing to make big sacrifices. Josh and Jason urge listeners to commit to authentic discipleship, following Jesus’ footsteps and reaching out to Discipleship.org for support and resources along the way.

Are We Following in Jesus's Footsteps?

Check out Discipleship.org for resources on disciple-making: https://discipleship.org/resources/ 
Today’s episode will help us deepen our connection with God through intentional quiet time and embrace everyday opportunities to live out discipleship among the lost and broken.
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Following the Footsteps of Jesus: Part 1 - Quiet Places & The Lost
Join Jason Ishmael and Josh Howard in this thought-provoking episode as they explore what it truly means to follow Jesus by examining where His footsteps regularly lead. They discuss the importance of spending quiet time alone with the Father, and how this time overflows into being intentionally present among lost, hurting, and broken people. Learn about the significance of living life as a mission trip and how to make disciples in your everyday walk. Don't miss this engaging conversation packed with personal insights, practical advice, and profound reflections on discipleship.
 
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Key Takeaways 
00:00 Introduction and Welcome
00:41 Setting the Stage: Following Jesus
03:46 The First Footstep: Quiet Time with the Father
07:49 The Importance of Consistent Time with God
14:26 Guarding Time with God
22:01 A Friend's Discipleship Class
23:08 The Power of Quiet Time
26:02 Struggles of an Extrovert
26:50 Introverts and Discipleship
28:14 Jesus Among the Lost and Broken
31:32 Isaiah's Encounter and Our Mission
35:23 Living Life as a Mission Trip
40:29 Closing Thoughts and Resources
 
Check out our Blogs: https://discipleship.org/blog/ 
See Below for a longer description:
In this episode, Josh Howard and Jason Ishmael dive into what it really means to follow Jesus. They focus on two key aspects of discipleship: spending intentional time with the Father and actively engaging with the lost and broken.
Josh kicks things off by highlighting how easily time with God gets squeezed out by the busyness of life. He and Jason agree—just like any important relationship, deep intimacy with God takes consistency and commitment. They discuss Jesus’ habit of retreating to quiet places for prayer, sharing personal experiences and lessons from spiritual mentors who’ve embraced this practice. But they don’t shy away from the challenges—distractions, packed schedules, and the struggle to prioritize God over daily demands. Their advice? Treat time with God like a non-negotiable appointment.
The conversation then shifts to discipleship beyond the church walls. Josh and Jason emphasize that following Jesus means stepping into the messy, broken places of the world. Jesus didn’t just preach from a distance—He was present among sinners, offering grace and love. They challenge listeners to rethink their daily interactions, shifting from routine tasks to living missionally, where every moment becomes an opportunity to serve.
They also reflect on the tendency in professional ministry to become isolated from non-believers. True discipleship, they argue, requires breaking out of that bubble and making mission a natural, everyday rhythm. It’s not about grand gestures but small, intentional acts that reflect Jesus' heart.
As they wrap up, Josh and Jason tie everything together: the deeper your connection with God, the more naturally mission flows from your life. They encourage listeners to protect their quiet time with God while stepping boldly into the world’s brokenness. Their message is clear—discipleship isn’t just personal growth; it’s about bringing God’s love into everyday life.
Tune in for a conversation that’s both challenging and inspiring, and get ready to rethink what discipleship looks like in your daily walk.

Living a Life Worthy of the Calling

Check out Discipleship.org for resources on disciple-making: https://discipleship.org/resources/ 
"Today’s episode will help us understand how aligning our lifestyle with our God-given mission through discipline and integrity can lead to lasting spiritual impact and effective disciple-making."
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Living a Life Worthy of the Calling: The Manner of Life & Mission
 
In this episode of the Disciple Makers podcast, Josh and Jace delve into an obscure passage from the Book of Judges, connecting it to the concepts of disciple-making culture. They explore the challenging question raised by Manoah about what the manner of life and mission for his son Samson should be. The discussion highlights the importance of aligning one's lifestyle with the mission of being a disciple of Jesus. They critique the sacred-secular divide in modern life and emphasize how integral it is to integrate faith into every aspect of life. They illustrate their points with examples from high-impact Christians and athletes like Michael Phelps. The episode culminates in a call to consecrate oneself to God's mission, punctuated by a heartfelt prayer for transformation, commitment, and deeper intimacy with Jesus. Tune in to be inspired and challenged to live a life worthy of your calling.
 
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Key Takeaways 
00:00 Welcome to the Disciple Makers Podcast
00:58 Setting the Stage: The Story of Samson
02:00 Manoah's Question: Manner of Life and Mission
05:25 Connecting Faith and Daily Life
05:49 The Sacred-Secular Split
10:16 Living a Life Worthy of the Calling
18:13 The Hunger for Mission and Dedication
20:40 The Challenge of Reading the Gospel
21:54 A Life-Changing Experience
22:35 The Power of Consistent Scripture Reading
24:27 Living a Life Worthy of the Calling
26:53 The Cost of Anointing and Commitment
29:29 The Parable of the Hidden Treasure
31:03 A Call to Consecration and Sacrifice
32:26 Closing Prayer and Reflections
36:26 Final Thoughts and Resources
Check out our Blogs: https://discipleship.org/blog/ 
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Episode 5: Mission and Lifestyle – A Deep Dive with Josh and Jason
In Episode 5 of the Disciple Makers Podcast, Josh Howard and Jason Ishmael explore the connection between mission, integrity, and lifestyle in disciple-making, using the story of Samson from the Book of Judges as their foundation.
The episode opens with a lighthearted exchange about Josh’s sporty appearance, setting an engaging tone before diving into the central message. Drawing from the moment when an angel of the Lord visits Manoah’s wife to prophesy Samson’s birth, Josh reflects on Manoah’s desire to understand the mission and the lifestyle required for his son. This sparks a larger conversation about how fulfilling our God-given mission demands a life aligned with that calling.
Josh and Jason critique the tendency, especially among church leaders, to prioritize mission over personal integrity. Jason highlights Nancy Pearcey’s concept of the "sacred-secular split," challenging Christians to integrate their faith into every aspect of life—whether as a teacher, mechanic, or any other profession. They stress that life and mission are inseparable, and embodying the character of Jesus is essential.
Using metaphors from sports, Josh references the discipline of athletes like Michael Phelps and Kobe Bryant, emphasizing how their rigorous training for temporal success mirrors the spiritual dedication needed for a life on mission. Spiritual growth, they argue, requires the same level of commitment through practices like prayer, scripture reading, and fasting.
Josh shares personal experiences, such as the transformative impact of reading the Gospel of Matthew in one sitting during Bible college, while Jason recounts a story of someone who read a gospel a day for 40 days, resulting in profound spiritual growth. They stress that scripture is foundational for sustaining both mission and spiritual integrity.
The hosts discuss how neglecting personal discipline can lead to burnout and moral failure, using Samson’s life as a cautionary tale. On the flip side, they highlight how spiritual practices anchor a mission-driven life, leading to lasting impact. Josh also reflects on church history, pointing to figures whose disciplined lives fueled revival and spiritual transformation.
The tone becomes reflective as Josh and Jason admit their own struggles with maintaining a lifestyle worthy of their calling. They share a heartfelt desire for greater intimacy with God and encourage listeners to examine their own lives, make sacrifices, and prioritize spiritual disciplines.
The episode concludes with Jason leading a prayer, asking for God’s help to align lives with His mission, cultivate deep love for Him, and bear spiritual fruit. Josh wraps up by inviting listeners to explore resources on discipleship.org and join the Disciple Makers community to pursue lives dedicated to making disciples.
This episode offers a powerful reminder of the cost of discipleship, urging Christians to embrace a lifestyle of integrity, discipline, and dedication to fulfill their God-given mission.

Strategies for North American Churches

Check out Discipleship.org for resources on disciple-making: https://discipleship.org/resources/ 
"Today’s episode will help us understand the key barriers to disciple-making movements in North America and explore practical ways to equip, empower, and release believers for Gospel multiplication."
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Why Disciple-Making Movements Aren't Flourishing in North America (Part 2): Equipping and Releasing
In this continuation of our series, we delve deeper into the reasons behind the absence of widespread disciple-making movements in North America. Join us as we explore the importance of equipping and releasing the priesthood of all believers, the pitfalls of a consumeristic mindset in churches, and the danger of outsourcing spiritual responsibilities to professional ministers. Through vivid analogies and real-life examples, we discuss the significance of shifting from control to empowerment and the need to foster a culture of intentional disciple-making. Learn how to turn up the dial on radical prayer and fasting, sow abundant seeds of the gospel, and embrace Jesus' model of multiplying disciples. Don't miss this invigorating conversation aimed at awakening the sleeping giant of the church in North America.
 
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Key Takeaways 
00:00 Introduction to Part Two: Disciple Making Movements
01:43 Equipping and Releasing the Priesthood
02:12 Challenges in Traditional Church Settings
04:43 Empowering the Congregation
06:53 Jesus' Model of Discipleship
07:48 Sports Analogies and Ministry
10:45 The Problem with Professional Ministry
15:55 The Need for a Disciple Making Culture
17:57 The Potential of the Church
19:47 Leaning on Family and Faith
20:57 Surrendering Control for God's Movement
22:56 Confidence in the Gospel and Integrity
24:01 The Role of Leaders and Discipleship
27:33 Releasing Control and Empowering Others
33:58 The Importance of Influence Over Authority
39:10 Recap and Final Thoughts
 
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Episode 4: Josh and Jason – Tackling Disciple-Making Challenges in North America
Josh Howard and Jason Ishmael unpack why disciple-making movements struggle in North America and explore actionable solutions. They break down four key barriers to these movements while offering encouragement and insights for church leaders and members.
Introduction: Picking Up Where We Left Off
Josh and Jason revisit the topic of disciple-making, comparing its limited growth in North America to thriving movements worldwide. They recap the previous episode, where they covered the importance of radical prayer, fasting, and sowing the Gospel abundantly, setting the stage for the next two barriers.
The Priesthood of All Believers
The third barrier? A reluctance to empower everyday Christians. Josh critiques the consumer mindset in many churches, where believers show up to “be fed” instead of stepping into their roles as ministers of reconciliation. Jason drives this home with a practical analogy: Christians often outsource discipleship like hiring a plumber—leaving the work to pastors. Josh underscores that every believer is called to be an ambassador for Christ, not a bystander.
Bridging the Church-Layperson Divide
Jason shares a story about a staff member who downplays his title to connect better with non-believers—highlighting the disconnect between church leaders and their congregations. Josh emphasizes that globally, disciple-making movements prioritize equipping and releasing believers, a strategy underutilized in North America.
Leadership as Coaches, Not Stars
Josh shifts focus to church leadership, pointing to Ephesians 4:11-12. Leaders aren’t meant to be the “star players” but coaches training others to spread the Gospel. This redefines success for leaders, putting the spotlight on equipping the congregation.
Breaking Structural and Cultural Barriers
Josh and Jason critique how many American churches resemble assembly lines, churning out attendees rather than true disciples. Professionalized ministry often burns out leaders and sidelines congregants. Less than 5% of American churches have a functional disciple-making culture, they note, calling for structural change.
Surrendering Control
The fourth barrier is leadership's unwillingness to relinquish control. Josh recounts a pastor's fear of losing members if they empowered congregants to plant churches. Jason and Josh advocate for leaders to celebrate when members are sent out, even if it means letting go.
Practical Steps for Change
Jason emphasizes that growth in faith requires significant responsibility. Josh adds that disciple-making can’t be an efficiency-driven process—it demands intentional equipping of every believer.
Vision for Multiplication
The episode closes with a hopeful vision: churches as launch pads sending believers into their communities. This multiplication model has the power to transform neighborhoods and cities, making a lasting impact.
A Mindset Shift
Josh and Jason challenge leaders to move from focusing on retention to releasing. True success, they argue, is celebrating when members flourish in disciple-making—even if it means they move on to other ministries.
Conclusion: A Call to Action
Josh wraps up with a recap of the four barriers to disciple-making: lack of prayer and fasting, insufficient Gospel sharing, failure to equip believers, and resistance to relinquishing control. They encourage listeners to subscribe, share feedback, and connect with Discipleship.org for support in building disciple-making churches.
This episode is both a reality check and a rallying cry for church leaders and members to embrace a transformative, outward-focused approach to discipleship.

Why are Disciple Making Movements NOT Happening in North America?

Check out Discipleship.org for resources on disciple-making: https://discipleship.org/resources/ 
“Today’s episode will help us understand why disciple-making movements thrive in places like South Asia but struggle in North America, and how we can spark spiritual renewal through prayer, and fasting.”
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Why Disciple Making Movements Struggle in North America - Part 1 | Disciple Makers Podcast
In this episode of the Disciple Makers podcast, Jason Ishmael and his co-host dive into why disciple-making movements haven't thrived in North America as expected. They explore four key reasons, split into two parts for detailed discussion. Emphasis is placed on the power of prayer, fasting, and the need for personal responsibility in spreading the gospel. Real-life examples and tips are shared, encouraging listeners to think strategically about their faith practices. Join us for an inspiring conversation on how to ignite spiritual awakening and revival in your community.
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Key Takeaways 
00:00 Introduction and Welcome
02:52 Heart Issues in Disciple Making
05:15 Radical Prayer and Fasting
07:11 The Power of Desperation and Prayer
10:12 The Role of Prayer in Revival
16:55 Crazy Farmers: The Parable of the Sower
18:28 The Parable of the Sower
18:52 Boldness in Sharing the Gospel
19:03 The Farming Analogy: Sowing and Reaping
20:31 Challenges in American Seed Sowing
22:05 The Importance of Personal Responsibility
23:07 The Domino Effect of Faith
26:34 The Power of Speaking Up
29:00 Living and Preaching the Gospel
34:25 Practical Steps for Prayer and Fasting
37:18 Conclusion and Next Steps
 
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In episode 3 of the Disciple Makers Podcast, hosts Josh Howard and Jason Ishmael dive into an engaging and heartfelt discussion about the challenges and opportunities for disciple-making movements, particularly in North America. They explore why these movements have thrived in regions like South Asia but remain slower to gain traction in North America.
Highlights from the Episode
Josh shares how movements in South Asia have seen remarkable success, citing examples like 75,000 conversions in nine months. He contrasts this with the slower growth in North America, attributing it less to cultural factors and more to deeper spiritual and heart-level issues.
Two Key Success FactorsThe hosts identify two game-changing practices driving movements overseas:
Radical Prayer and Fasting: South Asian leaders dedicate hours daily to prayer and frequently fast, practices less common in North American churches. Josh emphasizes that these spiritual disciplines create the foundation for breakthroughs.
Personal Evangelism: Leaders overseas are bold and persistent in sharing the gospel, sowing “seeds” widely. The hosts argue that more sharing leads to a greater harvest, encouraging listeners to adopt this “crazy farmer” mindset.
North American BarriersThe conversation shifts to the unique obstacles in North America, including:
Busyness and Self-Sufficiency: The fast-paced, self-reliant culture leaves little space for spiritual disciplines like prayer and fasting.
Comfort Zones: A lack of desperation for spiritual renewal often hinders a deeper dependence on Jesus.
Practical Steps for ListenersJosh and Jason offer actionable advice:
Start small with prayer and fasting, even just with a friend or small group for accountability.
Pray intentionally for revival and specific individuals by name.
Focus on strategic, mission-oriented prayers rather than only personal needs.
Stories and EncouragementJosh shares powerful examples from South Asia, illustrating how focused prayer and fasting have sparked spiritual awakenings. He encourages listeners to expect God to move when they step out in faith.
Reframing EvangelismThe hosts address common misconceptions about evangelism:
Words Matter: They debunk the idea of “preach the gospel, use words if necessary,” stressing the need for both proclamation and a gospel-aligned lifestyle.
Positive Message: Sharing the beauty and grace of Jesus is more effective than relying on fear or condemnation.
A Vision for RevivalJosh and Jason end on a hopeful note, envisioning a future where North American Christians embrace prayer, fasting, and bold evangelism to spark widespread spiritual renewal.
Call to ActionListeners are encouraged to reflect on the episode's themes and take small, actionable steps toward deeper spiritual practices. Josh hints at more in-depth discussions in upcoming episodes and directs listeners to resources on discipleship.org for support.
This episode is packed with practical insights and inspiring stories, urging believers to lean into prayer, fasting, and evangelism to reignite disciple-making movements.