The Disciple Maker‘s Podcast

How Neuroscience Transforms the Disciple Making Process (feat. Dr. Marcus Warner and Dawn Whitestone)

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Understanding Emotional and Relational Maturity Through Neuroscience
In this episode, we dive deep into the relationship between neuroscience and the stages of emotional and relational maturity, particularly in the context of disciple making. Key experts Marcus and Don Whitestone explain how brain science can guide effective discipleship, highlighting the four A's of emotional maturity, the brain's craving for joy, the dual operating systems of the brain, and the importance of mature identity centers. They also explore the five levels of maturity—infant, child, adult, parent, and elder—discussing the unique tasks and potential pitfalls at each stage. Through this comprehensive discussion, viewers gain insights on how to promote emotional and relational growth within faith communities.
Check out Discipleship.org for resources on disciple-making: https://discipleship.org/resources/ 
Check out Discipleship.org Audio Books: https://discipleship.org/resources/ebooks/ 
Key Takeaways
00:00 Introduction to Neuroscience and Discipleship
00:41 Understanding Emotional Maturity
01:33 The Four A's of Emotional Maturity
02:21 Brain Science and Maturity
04:12 The Brain's Craving for Joy
07:40 Operating Systems of the Brain
11:47 Levels of Brain Function
18:10 Applying Neuroscience to Ministry
18:35 Stages of Maturity in Discipleship
30:03 Understanding Emotional Regulation
30:38 Child Level Maturity Explained
31:31 Challenges of Pseudo Maturity
33:43 Healthy Adult Maturity
36:04 Transactional Relationships in Adulthood
38:30 Parent Level Maturity
40:55 Elder Level Maturity
43:02 Bridging the Maturity Gap in Leadership
47:52 Q&A: Maturity and Personality Types
50:07 Q&A: Elder Roles in Churches
56:14 Q&A: Addressing Immature Elders
Resources on Disciple Making Culture 
Disciple Making Culture Visual Introduction
Cultivating a Disciple-Making Culture at Your Church
Disciple-Making Culture
In this episode the focus is on connecting neuroscience with prayer and fasting to enhance spiritual growth and maturity. The speaker, a knowledgeable professor, emphasizes disciple-making's goal of fostering maturity, as seen through Apostle Paul's objective: presenting everyone mature in Christ.
The speaker uses the metaphor of an emotional infant versus an emotional adult to illustrate varying levels of emotional maturity, introducing the "four A's" of emotional immaturity: addiction, avoidance, anger, and anxiety. These traits often appear in those at the infant and child levels of maturity. Without overcoming these, individuals may continue to exhibit immature behaviors.
He explains three key brain principles linking neuroscience and maturity. First, the brain craves joy as its primary fuel, defaulting to fear if joy is unattainable. The brain's joy center, behind the eyes, helps maintain emotional stability, with mature individuals having a well-developed identity center. Second, the brain operates with two systems: the right brain scans the environment for emotional responses, while the left brain focuses on problem-solving. Emotionally mature individuals balance these functions well. Third, the brain functions on four levels: attachment, assessment, attunement, and action. Proper development of these areas is crucial for handling emotional weight without losing composure or identity.
Don Whitestone, leading the school of ministry, translates these concepts into practical applications for ministry and disciple-making. He discusses five maturity levels: infant, child, adult, parent, and elder, providing a framework for assessing and promoting growth.
The episode includes practical examples and personal anecdotes, illustrating how quickly an emotional trigger can regress someone to a child-like state, emphasizing the need for emotional maturity.
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Discipleship on the Back of a Napkin (feat. Dr. Marcus Warner)

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Heart Focused Discipleship: Transforming Lives Through The Napkin Gospel
In today's session, Dr. Marcus Warner introduces a unique approach to discipleship dubbed 'Discipleship on the Back of a Napkin.' Drawing from personal experiences and traditional evangelistic tools, he outlines a model that incorporates freedom, identity, spirit, and heart-focused community. Through engaging examples and practical exercises, the session explores the flaws in conventional discipleship methods and provides solutions to creating mature, whole-brain disciples. Learn how to effectively explain the gospel, build on new foundations, and foster deeper spiritual connections through this transformative approach.
Check out Discipleship.org for resources on disciple-making: https://discipleship.org/resources/ 
Check out Discipleship.org Audio Books: https://discipleship.org/resources/ebooks/ 
Key Takeaways
00:00 Introduction and Opening Remarks
01:44 The Power of the Napkin in Evangelism
05:51 Critique of Traditional Discipleship
14:44 A New Model for Discipleship
18:40 Understanding Freedom in Christ
20:41 Tools for Greater Freedom
25:15 The REAL Prayer Method: R.E.A.L.
26:00 Healing Through Prayer: A Real-Life Example
27:19 The Importance of Freedom in Discipleship
28:00 Rising with Christ: Understanding Our New Identity
28:40 The Foundation of Identity in Christ
34:36 Walking in the Spirit: Balancing Scripture and Connection
41:38 Heart-Focused Community: Beyond Social Clubs
43:17 Mission and Discipleship: The FISH Model
Resources on Disciple Making Culture 
Disciple Making Culture Visual Introduction
Cultivating a Disciple-Making Culture at Your Church
Disciple-Making Culture
This episode of Deeper Walk 2 dives into effective discipleship. Dr. Marcus Warner starts by thanking everyone for joining early. He shares a bit about his work with family—his son handles marketing, and his daughter manages the podcast—along with support from volunteers like Dawn Whitestone, the school of ministry director. With a lighthearted story about a print shop mix-up, he confirms everyone has a handout and opens with a prayer, expressing gratitude for the day and the fellowship of like-minded people.
The heart of his talk is “discipleship on the back of a napkin.” He recalls a teaching tool from his youth that illustrated the gap between man and God due to sin, comparing it to trying to swim from California to Hawaii—showing that we can’t reach God on our own, but He provides a bridge. He suggests enhancing this napkin metaphor with vivid images, like having an angelic lawyer, to illustrate the transformations that come with accepting the gospel—such as forgiveness, a new identity, and citizenship in God's kingdom.
He critiques traditional discipleship models focused on the ABCs: Academics, Behavior, and Church Activity. While valuable, he argues they often miss deeper personal transformation, leading to issues like spiritual pride and superficial maturity. He points out that traditional approaches might prioritize church benefits over individual growth, noting that knowledge can lead to arrogance without true change.
Instead, he proposes a heart-focused model that integrates gospel-based theology with practical tools. Discipleship, he suggests, should start with understanding freedom in Christ—highlighting that believers need to die with Christ to be freed from sin. He emphasizes the importance of addressing repentance, forgiveness, and truth to help break free from harmful lies and wounds.
Next, he stresses the significance of identity, urging listeners to recognize their new identity in Christ. He likens discipleship to cleaning out a well, removing both trash and blockages that prevent a clear flow of life. Maturity in the Christian life means handling stress while staying true to one’s identity, rather than reverting to self-centered patterns.
A key part of this model is walking in the Spirit. He introduces a two-winged airplane metaphor, with Scripture as one wing and the Holy Spirit as the other. Effective discipleship balances these, allowing the Spirit to guide our understanding and application of Scripture in daily life, avoiding legalism and unchecked spiritual experiences.
He also highlights the importance of a supportive, heart-focused community that fosters individual freedom and spiritual growth, distinguishing it from mere social clubs. This community helps individuals remember their identity in Christ and supports their spiritual journeys.
Finally, he ties everything together, showing how freedom, identity, Spirit, and community empower effective mission work. He warns that pursuing mission without these foundations can be risky, while true discipleship naturally leads to mission, as spiritually connected individuals with strong identities are equipped to make a difference.
Throughout the session, he uses practical exercises and metaphors, including a simple hand mnemonic for Biblical covenants, to reinforce the gospel's cohesive narrative and present a holistic, gospel-centered approach to discipleship.
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Four Good Ideas that Neutralized Western Christianity (feat. Dr. Marcus Warner)

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Reviving Discipleship: The Power of Attachment in Spiritual Growth
In this deeply insightful talk, the speaker introduces Deeper Walk International, a ministry aimed at enhancing spiritual growth through heart-focused discipleship. Starting from its foundation in spiritual warfare counseling by Dr. Mark Beubeck, the ministry has evolved to address the broader needs of the church community. The speaker examines how traditional approaches to discipleship, focused on truth, willpower, and power, have resulted in 'half-brained Christianity.' Emphasizing the importance of attachment and joy in spiritual development, the talk advocates for a holistic model where group discipleship plays a pivotal role. With references to thinkers like Jim Wilder, Alan Shore, and Nietzsche, the presentation challenges prevailing notions and sets the stage for a transformative approach to Christian discipleship.
Check out Discipleship.org for resources on disciple-making: https://discipleship.org/resources/ 
Check out Discipleship.org Audio Books: https://discipleship.org/resources/ebooks/ 
Key Takeaways
00:00 Introduction to Deeper Walk International
01:28 Heart Focused Discipleship
02:09 The Role of Trauma and Freedom Issues
02:40 Partnership with Jim Wilder and Neuroscience Insights
03:50 The Church as a Factory: Producing Disciples
04:37 Four Essential Elements of Change
05:25 The Enlightenment and the Shift to Truth
07:45 Attachment vs. Truth in Faith
13:14 The Will and Voluntarism in Theology
23:06 The Role of Power in Christianity
29:05 Postmodernism and Tolerance
32:08 Building a Disciple-Making Culture
38:04 Conclusion and Final Thoughts
Resources on Disciple Making Culture 
Disciple Making Culture Visual Introduction
Cultivating a Disciple-Making Culture at Your Church
Disciple-Making Culture
In this episode, we meet the speaker from Deeper Walk International, a ministry founded in 1988 in Sioux City, Iowa. Initially centered on spiritual warfare counseling by Dr. Mark Beubeck, author of "The Adversary," the ministry expanded under his influence from Trinity Evangelical Divinity School. Over time, it broadened its impact beyond counselors to missionaries and church members, highlighting the universal relevance of its teachings.
The term "heart-focused discipleship" emerged as a key concept, emphasizing that many barriers to spiritual growth stem not from ignorance but from unresolved emotional wounds. Drawing on personal experiences as a senior pastor, the speaker observed how addressing these issues led to profound life changes among believers.
Collaboration with Jim Wilder, director of a California counseling center, integrated spiritual warfare with neuroscience, particularly attachment theory. Their joint publications like "Rare Leadership" and "The Solution of Choice" blend theological insights with neuroscience to offer holistic models for personal and spiritual transformation.
The episode explores four significant philosophical movements influencing Western Christianity:
Reason and Truth (The Enlightenment): This era prioritized intellectual reasoning in faith, sometimes reducing Christianity to debates rather than fostering deep, transformative relationships.
The Will (Voluntarism): Building on reason, this emphasized human willpower in faith, overlooking the complexity of desires and relational needs.
Power (Nietzsche and Modernism): Emphasizing power and achievement, this movement sometimes overlooked the relational depth necessary for true spiritual growth.
Tolerance (Postmodernism): While promoting acceptance, this movement sometimes minimized the possibility of genuine transformation, reinforcing relativism over biblical truth.
The speaker advocates for a discipleship approach rooted in community dynamics. Like fertile soil nurturing plants, vibrant Christian communities foster personal growth and spiritual transformation. They critique individualistic discipleship models, advocating for group settings that provide diverse life experiences and maturity levels.
Drawing from John 15, the speaker emphasizes the need to remain deeply connected to Jesus for spiritual fruitfulness. They argue that genuine transformation occurs within a supportive community centered on God's truth and relational depth—not solely on intellectualism or personal effort.
Practical examples highlight the pitfalls of solo-driven spiritual warfare ministries and the benefits of team-based approaches for sustainable growth. The episode concludes with a call to embrace "Discipleship 2.0," prioritizing relational attachment and joyful community in church practices, ensuring holistic spiritual development rooted in meaningful relationships within the body of Christ.
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Worldwide Revolution (feat. Jay Armstrong)

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The True Essence of Discipleship: A Call for Worldwide Revolution
In this video session, we discuss the vital aspects of discipleship and the importance of personal transformation in living a life that mirrors Jesus. Highlighted are significant concepts learned over four sessions, emphasizing that real change begins within oneself before it can impact others. The speaker delves into the notion of Jesus as a revolutionary figure and the mission of worldwide revolution that he initiated through discipleship. Also discussed are challenges churches face in making true disciples due to truncated gospels and weak definitions. Practical steps to embrace a life with God and truly embody the Great Commission and Great Commandment are shared, with inspiring anecdotes and real-life examples to support the journey toward becoming fully committed followers of Christ.
Check out Discipleship.org for resources on disciple-making: https://discipleship.org/resources/ 
Check out Discipleship.org Audio Books: https://discipleship.org/resources/ebooks/ 
Key Takeaways
00:00 Introduction and Personal Discipleship
00:32 Key Lessons from Seminary
01:42 The Importance of Discipleship
03:11 Jesus as a Revolutionary
05:27 The Great Commission and Authority
10:18 Personal Journey and Ministry Challenges
15:04 Defining Discipleship and Gospel
19:54 Characteristics and Challenges of a Revolution
24:52 Live Example: Choosing Christ
25:50 Theological Left and Right: Discipleship Challenges
26:29 Prosperity and Consumer Gospels
28:42 The Gospel of the Kingdom
29:59 Revolution of Character
34:07 The With God Life
42:46 Love as the Ultimate Response
46:20 Transformative Power of Love
Resources on Disciple Making Culture 
Disciple Making Culture Visual Introduction
Cultivating a Disciple-Making Culture at Your Church
Disciple-Making Culture
In this episode titled "Bonheoffer 4," we explore deep themes of discipleship, the evolving nature of the church, and the transformative impact of the gospel. The speaker begins by highlighting the critical importance of personal discipleship, noting a concerning lack of personal mentoring among church leaders.
Reflecting on a seminary lesson, three key insights emerge: the internal transformation is more crucial than external events, our character outweighs our actions, and we cannot give what we do not possess. These principles set the stage for a broader conversation on the state of discipleship and its cultivation within church communities.
Critiquing prevalent church practices, the speaker contrasts the self-contained "frog" with the outward-reaching "lizard," lamenting the church's focus on internal programs rather than proactive disciple-making efforts. Central to this critique is the assertion that the type of gospel preached shapes the disciples produced. Misrepresentations of the gospel, such as the "forgiveness-only" or "prosperity" versions, result in incomplete discipleship outcomes. Instead, advocating for a holistic "discipleship gospel" is crucial, centered on following Jesus as the model for life.
The speaker portrays Jesus as a revolutionary, initiating transformation from individual hearts to cultural shifts within society through authentic discipleship. Redefining grace as an active catalyst for growth rather than a passive concept becomes integral to this mission.
Personal narratives reveal the speaker's own journey, including struggles with pastoral responsibilities and personal trauma, which underscore the critical need for genuine discipleship within the church. Aligning current practices with biblical ideals prompts a renewed focus on fostering discipleship as core to church identity.
Practical examples like the "with God life" illustrate the transformative journey of discipleship, urging listeners to reconsider love as an ongoing sacrificial pursuit of God's best for others.
The episode culminates with a poignant story emphasizing love as the foundational principle guiding life and mission, echoing Jesus's radical call to transformative love.
Overall, "Bonheoffer 4" challenges us to evaluate our personal discipleship journey, the authenticity of the gospel we proclaim, and the transformative power of love in our lives and communities.
 
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Jesus Math (feat. Cindy Perkins)

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Today’s episode will help us deepen our understanding of discipleship's profound significance, guided by Cindy Perkins's insights and practical advice, encouraging intentional living in light of God’s kingdom and the transformative power of authentic Christian community.
 
Mastering Discipleship: The Jesus Math Strategy with Cindy Perkins
Join Cindy Perkins, Chief Operations Officer of the Bonhoeffer Project, as she goes into the essence of discipleship. Learn about the significance of living in the 'already not yet' space, collaborative discipleship, and the immense importance of authentic relationships in spiritual growth. Cindy shares her journey and experiences, introduces effective steps and strategies for implementing discipleship, and underscores the critical need for an intentional, culture-shaping approach within the church. Discover the exponential multiplication potential of 'Jesus Math' and understand how starting with even one dedicated disciple can eventually lead to thousands. Essential viewing for those committed to fostering deep, impactful discipleship.
Check out Discipleship.org for resources on disciple-making: https://discipleship.org/resources/ 
Check out Discipleship.org Audio Books: https://discipleship.org/resources/ebooks/ 
Key Takeaways
00:00 Introduction to Cindy Perkins
10:56 The Concept of Jesus Math
18:26 Personal Journey and Discipleship
26:54 The Mandate of Titus 2: Teaching the Younger Generation
33:12 Practical Tips for Effective Discipleship
39:29 Choosing the Right Curriculum for Discipleship
41:30 Aligning Definitions of Discipleship with Church Leadership
43:37 Adapting Discipleship to Individual Needs and Contexts
49:54 Engaging in Pre-Conversion Discipleship
51:07 Discipleship in Academic Settings
53:05 Final Thoughts and Encouragement
Resources on Disciple Making Culture 
Disciple Making Culture Visual Introduction
Cultivating a Disciple-Making Culture at Your Church
Disciple-Making Culture
This episode from the Bonhoeffer Project goes into the profound significance and complexities of discipleship within the context of Christian faith, featuring Cindy Perkins, the Chief Operations Officer of the organization. Cindy's role in overseeing operations and women's cohorts within the Bonhoeffer Project underscores her deep involvement in fostering discipleship and organizational health.
Cindy opens the episode with a compelling question for the audience: "How do we live in the 'already Not yet'?" This question serves as a thematic anchor, exploring the tension between the Christian belief in salvation already achieved and the ongoing process of transformation and anticipation of the future heavenly reality. She navigates through this theological concept, addressing the challenges many face in navigating life's ambiguities and striving to live faithfully in the present while anticipating the fullness of God's kingdom.
During the episode, Cindy reflects on a recent conversation with a tech assistant at a conference, highlighting their mutual appreciation for the collaborative spirit evident at the event. She draws inspiration from the extensive works of Bill Hull on discipleship, noting how his teachings have shaped many current practices and non-profit initiatives focused on nurturing discipleship within the church. Cindy also critiques aspects of the contemporary copyright culture, contrasting it with Jesus's open and collective approach to sharing teachings about the gospel.
The discussion expands to encompass broader themes within the Christian community, including unity and the dangers of divisiveness. Cindy draws from Scott McKnight's insights on endurance through suffering as depicted in 1 Peter, foreseeing potential future challenges for the church. She raises concerns about the readiness of many Christian institutions to face extreme adversities, such as potential persecution or societal marginalization, urging a deeper commitment to unity and mission amidst cultural shifts.
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Fail to Plan, Plan to Fail (feat. Sandy Mason)

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Lizards vs. Toads: A Revolution in Church Discipleship
Today’s episode will help us reevaluate our approach to ministry, emphasizing proactive engagement over comfort, and inspire strategic planning rooted in biblical wisdom to foster a culture of effective disciple-making.
Join us for an inspiring session as we go into the fascinating dynamics of church leadership and discipleship, featuring speakers discussing the contrast between 'lily pad' and 'lizard' mentalities. Discover the pitfalls of comfort and complacency in ministry and learn how to embrace risk, creativity, and mission-focused outreach. This thought-provoking talk challenges traditional approaches, emphasizing the importance of planning and intentionality to cultivate a vibrant, disciple-making movement. Whether you're a church leader or a passionate follower of Christ, this session will inspire and equip you to transform your church culture and impact your community.
Check out Discipleship.org for resources on disciple-making: https://discipleship.org/resources/ 
Check out Discipleship.org Audio Books: https://discipleship.org/resources/ebooks/ 
Key Takeaways
00:00 Welcome and Introduction
10:36 Revival and the Role of Lay Lizards
15:44 The Mission Beyond the Lily Pad
22:46 Guns and Faith: A Unique Retreat Experience
23:27 The Power of Your Sphere: Reaching Out
24:00 Avoiding Toadism: Staying on Mission
24:29 Introducing Hollis Half: Planning for Success
30:29 Biblical Examples of Planning
31:42 Wisdom in Planning: Insights from Proverbs and James
39:58 Innovations in Discipleship: Building a Culture
45:17 High Impact Events and Spiritual Battles
 
Resources on Disciple Making Culture 
Disciple Making Culture Visual Introduction
Cultivating a Disciple-Making Culture at Your Church
Disciple-Making Culture
See below for a longer description: 
The episode kicks off with a warm greeting from the speaker, acknowledging a group from Iowa for their collaborative efforts in church work, jokingly cautioning them about losing their zeal for Jesus amidst their success. He reflects on how topics like discipleship have evolved from being niche to central in today's conferences, signaling a renewed focus on God's work.
Moving on, the speaker introduces his co-speaker, Hollis Half, teasing their catchy session title aimed at drawing in the audience. The conversation shifts to a spiritual tone with a prayer expressing gratitude for knowing God and a commitment to disciple-making. The speaker uses an amusing analogy of 'toads' and 'lizards' to illustrate passive versus proactive approaches in ministry and outreach.
Exploring further, he describes 'toads' as those comfortable in their church 'lily pads,' focusing on internal comforts like facilities and attendance. In contrast, 'lizards' represent leaders who actively engage the community, prioritizing outreach and action over comfort.
Drawing from personal experiences, the speaker shares how his early ministry's growth led to a shift from active community engagement, when renting spaces, to a more complacent focus on maintaining a permanent church building.
He critiques the American church's tendency towards comfort and security, sometimes overshadowing the mission of outreach. Anecdotes illustrate how these mindsets can hinder effective ministry and outreach efforts.
Highlighting Jesus's approach to ministry, he emphasizes the need for dynamic, mission-minded leaders—'lizards'—who can spark revival and reach out beyond traditional church boundaries.
The talk lightens with personal stories, including encounters with unlikely evangelists and successful outreach movements like Promise Keepers, emphasizing the effectiveness of proactive engagement over internal church activities.
The discussion shifts to practical advice from Hollis Half on the urgency and strategy of ministry planning, drawing lessons from his extensive experience. He underscores the importance of intentional planning and strategic thinking inspired by biblical examples like Moses and Nehemiah.
In conclusion, the episode encourages churches to foster cultures that prioritize disciple-making and innovate relationally and symbolically to reflect God's strategic approach in their ministry planning.
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Discipleship: Building a Culture, Not a Curriculum Bonhoeffer Project (feat. Dan Leitz)

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Building a Disciple-Making Culture with Dan Lights | Discipleship Insights
Have questions like how to develop a discipleship culture in your church? Well then this episode is for you. 
Join Matt Dabbs from Discipleship.org as he sits down with Dan Lights, CEO of The Bonhoeffer Project, to delve into the transformative journey of creating a disciple-making culture. Dan shares his personal experiences and challenges in shifting from a curriculum-based approach to fostering a robust, intentional church environment that prioritizes disciple-making. Learn the importance of examining your church's soil, the stages of change, and practical steps for defining and implementing a disciple-making strategy. Whether you're a pastor or a church member, this conversation offers valuable insights for anyone committed to nurturing a thriving community of disciples.
Check out Discipleship.org for resources on disciple-making: https://discipleship.org/resources/ 
Check out Discipleship.org Audio Books: https://discipleship.org/resources/ebooks/ 
Key Takeaways
00:00 Introduction to Discipleship Culture
05:15 Examining and Cultivating Church Soil
07:51 The Role of Patience in Discipleship
15:01 Navigating Change in Church Culture
17:23 Adapting to New Normals
21:50 Understanding the Process of Change in Churches
28:04 Handling Resistance and Cultural Change
36:00 The Bonhoeffer Project and Its Impact
42:44 Encouragement for Leaders and Church Members
 
Resources on Disciple Making Culture 
Disciple Making Culture Visual Introduction
Cultivating a Disciple-Making Culture at Your Church
Disciple-Making Culture
See below for a longer description: 
In this episode of the Bonhoeffer Project, Matt from Discipleship.org interviews Dan Leitz, the CEO of the Bonhoeffer Project. Dan shares his insights into how discipleship should be viewed not merely as a curriculum but as a culture that requires intentionality and time to foster. He begins by explaining his journey from being a task-driven individual who once believed that having a robust curriculum would be enough for disciple-making. Dan learned that while curriculum is important, it is not the core of discipleship; developing a culture of discipleship within the church is crucial.
Drawing inspiration from the parable of the sower in Matthew 13:3-9, Dan emphasizes that the soil represents the culture of the heart and the church. For effective discipleship, the church's culture—like the soil—must be examined, developed, and nurtured to be fertile for growth. He recounts his experience of attending the Disciple Making Forum in 2019 and realizing that a solid curriculum alone would not suffice without a supportive culture.
Dan elaborates on the time-consuming nature of building a disciple-making culture, stating that while programs and curriculums might offer quick fixes, they do not address underlying cultural issues. He talks about the four stages of change—panic, adaptation, new normal, and a state where people wouldn't go back—that people and churches undergo during a cultural shift.
He highlights practical steps to foster a disciple-making culture, such as defining terms clearly to ensure everyone in the church understands what is meant by discipleship, and living out the change you want to see. Dan stresses the importance of leadership having a kingdom mentality, focusing not on quick success but long-term faithfulness and fruitfulness.
Dan also discusses the Bonhoeffer Project's 10-month cohort model, which helps pastors and ministry leaders develop a disciple-making plan by re-examining the gospel, understanding Jesus's methods, and crafting a personalized strategy. This process involves collaboration with other leaders to mitigate pitfalls and share best practices. The program has been broken into three modules to offer flexibility, allowing participants to complete it according to their schedules.
Furthermore, Dan advises that not everyone will initially support or stick with the cultural changes. Leaders must be prepared for resistance and attrition but should remain committed to the long-term goals. He encourages leaders to get their congregational leaders and members on board and emphasizes the value of patience and perseverance in cultural transformation.
The episode concludes with Dan encouraging pastors and church members to press into the challenge of cultural change and support their leaders, emphasizing that discipleship needs to be a central focus in today's church environment. He stresses the necessity for prayer, support, and affirmation from church members to help leaders feel less isolated and more empowered in their mission.
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Stuck in a Stalemate ( feat. Shawna Murlin)

What are your thoughts on family Discipleship.. 
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Check out our latest eBook on Family Discipleship: https://discipleship.org/shop/family-discipleship-blueprint-a-year-by-year-guide-to-family-discipleship/ 
 
Empowering Child Discipleship: Practical Steps for Church Leaders and Parents
In this episode, Shawna Murlin from Awana shares a valuable resource for leaders and parents dedicated to raising children within the Christian faith. She discusses the focus on safety and security, featuring insights from Julie Lowe's book 'Safeguards'. The episode emphasizes the necessity for churches and homes to collaborate in child discipleship. Key resources and conversation guides, like the Friday family email, are showcased. The importance of prayer, meaningful adult relationships, and building a culture of discipleship in both church and home settings are highlighted. We conclude with a heartfelt prayer and a call to action for training and equipping parents and church leaders in the crucial work of child discipleship.
Check out Discipleship.org for resources on disciple-making: https://discipleship.org/resources/ 
Check out Discipleship.org Audio Books: https://discipleship.org/resources/ebooks/ 
Key Takeaways
00:00 Introduction and Resources
05:21 The Anxious Generation by Jonathan Haidt
09:40 Understanding Stalemates in Ministry
11:37 The Role of Home and Church in Child Discipleship
28:34 Building a Vision for Child Discipleship in the Church
33:41 Challenges in Family Discipleship
39:20 Creating a Formational Home
49:33 The Power of Spiritual Conversations
56:15 Conclusion and Resources
Resources on Family Discipleship
Family Discipleship: The Present and Future State of Family Discipleship
Family Discipleship: Present and Future Trends
Family Discipleship: Jason Houser
Real Life Theology Conversations 
See below for a longer description: 
This episode of the podcast focuses on a comprehensive overview of valuable resources for child discipleship, both for leaders and parents within church communities. The episode begins with the speaker highlighting the importance of sharing practical resources and introduces the Awana website, childdiscipleship.com, as a hub for such tools, including podcasts, printable materials, and safety and security information for parents. 
One of the highlighted resources includes 14 questions to ask potential babysitters, inspired by Julie Lowe's book "Safeguards." The speaker underscores the book's message about the importance of safeguarding children from individuals they know, not just strangers. Another valuable tool mentioned is the Friday Family Email, a resource sent out weekly, featuring biblically-based conversation guides, activities, and memory verses for families to engage with their children.
Videos from the Child Discipleship Forum are also recommended, particularly a powerful message by John Tyson on the importance of prayer and fasting in family discipleship. Various books, including "The Anxious Generation" by Jonathan Haidt, are suggested for their insightful views on community and faith, despite the author not being a Christian.
The speaker transitions to a discussion on the responsibility of child discipleship, emphasizing the current stalemate between churches and parents. While 95% of children's ministry leaders believe discipleship should occur at home, only 51% of parents agree, highlighting a significant disconnect. This stalemate sees both parties pointing fingers at each other for the lack of effective discipleship.
The episode delves into resolving this issue by advocating for a model where church leaders train and equip parents to disciple their children effectively. This involves casting a compelling vision for child discipleship within church communities, creating dedicated times and places for training parents, and fostering language that emphasizes the integration of faith into daily conversations.
A key strategy discussed is the importance of building meaningful adult relationships within the church community for every child. Research demonstrates that children with such relationships are significantly more engaged and likely to integrate biblical principles into their lives. The speaker suggests surrounding each child with five adult mentors to provide a robust support system.
The speaker shares personal anecdotes to illustrate the transformative power of regular, meaningful conversations and community support, emphasizing the need for intentional planning and vision in both church and home settings. Resources recommended for implementing this approach include "Children’s Ministry in a New Reality," "Transforming Children into Spiritual Champions," "Beautiful Resistance," "Habits of the Household," and "Sticky Faith."
The episode concludes with practical steps for church leaders to create a supportive environment for family discipleship, including establishing clear visions, identifying training times during already existing church activities, promoting language that integrates faith into daily life, and building a community of believers who actively support and engage with the children.
Listeners are encouraged to visit the Awana website and explore the recommended resources further. The episode ends with a prayer for strength and guidance in the mission of disciple-making, urging listeners to persist in this critical and challenging work.
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Vocational Disciple Making Through Your Church (feat. Dave Buehring and Joe Mansfield)

What are some ways or stories that you have of making Disciples in your vocation? Let us know in the comments below! 
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Making Disciples in Every Vocation | Dave Buehring
Transforming Society Through Vocational Disciple Making
In this episode, Dave Buehring of LionShare discusses the concept of vocational disciple-making, emphasizing its relevance in impacting various spheres of society. Drawing from his personal experiences with Youth With A Mission (YWAM) and stories of individuals like John, a cardiologist, and Mandisa, a former American Idol contestant, Dave illustrates how integrating discipleship into vocations can transform lives and communities. He challenges pastors and church leaders to support their congregants in their professional fields, fostering spiritual growth and societal impact. Practical steps and considerations for fostering a disciple-making culture within churches are also explored.
Check out Discipleship.org for resources on disciple-making: https://discipleship.org/resources/ 
Check out Discipleship.org Audio Books: https://discipleship.org/resources/ebooks/ 
Key Takeaways:
00:00 Introduction and Welcome
02:50 Illustrating Discipleship in Various Fields
04:31 Challenges and Opportunities in Discipleship
06:20 Encouraging Servanthood and Transformation
08:18 Equipping Leaders for Kingdom Impact
09:55 Balancing Church and Marketplace Leadership
13:51 Vocational Disciple Making in Practice
15:05 Creating a Disciple Making Culture
29:38 Commissioning Vocational Leaders
33:28 Mandisa's Story
43:59 Assessing Church Impact
46:56 Healthy and Fruitful Church Characteristics
50:07 Practical Applications for Vocational Discipleship
55:10 Encouraging and Supporting Vocational Leaders
 
Resources on Discipleship
Becoming a Disciple Maker
Disciple Making Culture: 10 Minute eBook
National Study on Disciple Making in USA Churches
DiscipleShift: 5 Minute eBook
 
In this episode, Dave Buehring discusses the mission and approach of LionShare—an organization focused on vocational disciple making and the importance of applying discipleship in various spheres of society. Buehring starts by introducing himself and thanking the participants, mentioning his background with Youth with a Mission (YWAM) and being discipled by its founder, Lauren Cunningham. He emphasizes the connection between disciple making and societal impact, outlining his early realization that discipleship extends beyond personal spiritual growth to influencing different vocations such as media, government, and business.
Buehring presents his belief that a significant part of the United States' current issues stems from ignoring Jesus’s commission to make disciples, particularly in key sectors like media and government. He suggests that society's transformation occurs not through yelling or solely praying but through influencing these sectors with godly principles.
 
He shares several stories of individuals he's discipled, highlighting the changes in their personal and professional lives. For instance, he talks about John, a cardiologist who learned to balance his immense professional skill with relational sensitivity. Another story involves Darren, who worked in the White House and learned to integrate the fear of the Lord into his operations, avoiding manipulation. Similarly, Sarah, an emerging artist, learned the value of servanthood in her music career.
Buehring contrasts two mentalities within churches: convening (building-centric, program-oriented) versus mobilizing (impacting the community, relationship-oriented). He urges churches to adopt a culture of equipping and releasing members to serve in their vocations. Additionally, he provides a model for understanding discipleship stages, ranging from foundational discipling for new believers to vocational and leadership discipling for those influencing their respective fields.
A significant part of his message is about integrating vocational disciple-making into church culture. This includes practical steps such as initiating conversations with vocational leaders in the church, creating vocational teams, and using Sunday sermons to discuss vocational applications of discipleship.
Buehring also addresses the importance of redefining the metrics of church health beyond 'nickels and noses' (attendance and giving). Instead, he suggests evaluating the presence of God, community, disciple-making, and outreach within the church.
He concludes by emphasizing the necessity of recognizing and supporting the unique callings of individuals within the church. This includes commissioning them into their vocational roles and ensuring the church is making a tangible impact on its community.
Through various anecdotes and practical advice, Buehring underscores the pivotal role of discipleship in transforming both individual lives and broader societal structures. He encourages church leaders to view their congregants’ vocational callings as integral to their ministry, thus fostering a more holistic approach to disciple-making.
 
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Transformational Disciple Making (feat. Dave Buehring and Joe Mansfield)

Transformative Power of Discipleship: Insights and Practical Tips
Click here to view Lionshare: https://lionshare.org/ 
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In this episode, we explore how discipleship transforms both the church and society at large. We discuss the importance of following God's guidance, cultivating a Godly atmosphere in churches, and spreading discipleship through meaningful relationships across various professions. Personal stories highlight effective discipleship programs, focusing on developing godly character, understanding our identity in Christ, and practical strategies for everyday discipleship. The conversation also shares practical insights into applying these principles, seeking divine direction, and nurturing a Christ-centered culture in both workplaces and congregations. This episode is an invaluable resource for anyone eager to deepen their understanding and application of discipleship principles.
Check out Discipleship.org for resources on disciple-making: https://discipleship.org/resources/ 
 
Check out Discipleship.org Audio Books: https://discipleship.org/resources/ebooks/ 
 
Key Takeaways:
00:00 Introduction to Transformation
08:28 Character and Relationships in Discipleship
15:55 Identity and Character Development
27:05 The Role of the Holy Spirit in Discipleship
28:05 Transformation Through Revelation and Obedience
36:00 The Importance of Obedience in Discipleship
42:23 Discipleship Tools and Opportunities
 
Resources on Discipleship
Becoming a Disciple Maker
Disciple Making Culture: 10 Minute eBook
National Study on Disciple Making in USA Churches
DiscipleShift: 5 Minute eBook
See Below for a longer description of this episode:
This episode dives into the power of personal and spiritual growth through Christian discipleship.
The speaker begins by urging listeners to reflect on transformative moments in their lives, where overcoming challenges led to significant personal growth. For instance, one participant shares their experience with the Regeneration 12-step program, highlighting how it sparked spiritual renewal and ongoing growth.
The conversation explores how personal tragedies can also be catalysts for spiritual enlightenment. Another participant shares how the loss of their father prompted a reevaluation of priorities and deepened their faith, illustrating how profound personal loss can lead to transformative experiences.
The core of discipleship is then emphasized, focusing on facilitating continual change in others. The speaker challenges the idea that discipleship is solely about biblical knowledge, stressing that true transformation comes from applying Jesus' teachings. Referencing the Sermon on the Mount, where Jesus stresses the importance of both hearing and doing His words, the speaker underscores the foundation for weathering life's challenges.
Critiquing the traditional church emphasis on scriptural knowledge without practical application, the speaker shares an anecdote about a Presbyterian pastor dismayed by his congregation's lack of transformation despite their extensive knowledge. This highlights the gap between knowledge and spiritual growth.
Character emerges as a crucial aspect of discipleship, with the speaker arguing that cultivating godly character—through practices like humility and mercy—is paramount. A personal story about Mandisa illustrates this, showing her proactive steps towards repentance and reconciliation as a model of spiritual principles in action.
Discipleship, the speaker insists, is not about completing a curriculum but integrating God's teachings into daily life. Another anecdote involving Mandisa illustrates how acts of humility and repentance shape genuine character development.
The episode concludes with a call to embrace a transformative journey rooted in revelation and obedience. Transformation begins with divine insight that goes beyond mere knowledge and requires obedient action. Noah's obedience during the ark's construction serves as an analogy, highlighting the transformative power of steadfast obedience despite uncertainty.
Ultimately, this episode underscores Christian discipleship as an ongoing journey of personal and spiritual growth. It stresses the importance of character development, practical application of biblical teachings, and nurturing mature, Christ-like relationships. The takeaway is clear: true discipleship involves living out Jesus' teachings daily, embodying authentic transformation grounded in godly character.
 
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