Real Life Theology Podcast

Gen Z On Church Hurt

Gen Z and Church Hurt: Healing and Accountability in Faith
“Today’s episode will help us understand and navigate the complexities of church hurt, emphasizing the importance of accountability, mental health, and supportive community within the church.”
In this compelling episode of the Real Life Theology Podcast, host Reagan Grace Gibbs and her cousin Joel tackle the nuanced topic of 'church hurt' among Gen Z. They share personal stories and discuss the complex balance between church accountability and genuine trauma. Through exploring ministry challenges, maintaining boundaries in ministry families, and dealing with judgment and hurtful rumors, this episode provides insights aimed at healing and understanding. Listeners are encouraged to discern God's true voice, respect the church as the bride of Christ, and find supportive leadership on their personal growth journey. The episode concludes with a heartfelt prayer for those affected by 'church hurt.'
Follow Reagan on Social Media @thereagangrace
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Time Stamps:00:00 Introduction to the Real Life Theology Podcast07:04 Defining Church Hurt14:17 Preacher's Kid Expectations15:32 Setting Healthy Boundaries in Ministry27:16 Church Hurt and Teen Pregnancy37:53 Gossip in the Church39:48 Projecting Church Hurt47:23 When to Leave a Church51:30 Dealing with Trauma in Church54:47 The Impact of Hurtful Words01:01:45 Discerning Relationships01:11:58 Final Thoughts and PrayerSubscribe to the Real Life Theology Podcast: https://reallifetheologypodcast.podbean.com/ 
Other podcasts by RENEW.org:– Scripture in Black and White: https://scriptureinblackandwhite.podbean.com/ – Step into Scripture: https://stepintoscripture.podbean.com/ 
Check out RENEW.org for resources on theology and disciple making. 
See below for a longer description:–The podcast episode goes into the topic of church hurt from the perspective of Generation Z. Hosted by Reagan Grace Gibbs, a student ministry director and social media influencer, the episode features a conversation with her cousin Joel, the worship minister at Ekklesia. They both share a personal and professional passion for the topic.Reagan starts the episode with lighthearted questions to Joel, easing into the heavier discussion on church hurt. They discuss the widespread use of the term "church hurt," especially among Gen Z, and differentiate it from the necessary accountability within the church.
Joel reflects on his past misunderstandings of accountability, and Reagan emphasizes the importance of addressing members' sins out of love. They highlight the unrealistic expectations placed on pastors' kids and stress the need for boundaries to protect mental health in leadership roles.The episode addresses the projection of church hurt onto others and cautions against letting negative experiences discourage finding a church community. Reagan and Joel discuss the stress faced by church leaders and the importance of setting boundaries.
Joel explains the difference between true conviction and church hurt, emphasizing that loving correction should not be seen as harm. They also discuss when it might be appropriate to leave a church, advising against leaving due to personal hurt unless the church is doctrinally unsound.Reagan shares a listener's story about trauma in the church, highlighting the importance of mental health awareness. The episode concludes with a discussion on distinguishing between toxic influences and those needing correction, and Joel offers a prayer for healing and restoration.
Throughout the episode, Reagan and Joel provide theological insights, personal stories, and practical advice to foster healing and understanding, emphasizing community, accountability, and a strong relationship with God.
 
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Gen Z On Giving

Today’s episode will help us understand the significance of tithing and giving within Generation Z, highlighting how these practices foster a deeper relationship with God and lead to experiencing His blessings.
In this episode of the Real Life Theology Podcast, host Reagan Grace Gibbs, student ministry director at Ekklesia Christian Church, dives into the topic of giving within Generation Z from a Biblical perspective. Joined by her best friend Summer Wilson, a worship leader and photographer, Reagan discusses the importance of tithing and sacrificial giving. They explore statistics, personal testimonies, and the difference between tithing and offerings while emphasizing the importance of placing God first in finances, even in challenging times. The episode also addresses the misconceptions surrounding organized religion and the necessity of joyful giving according to Biblical principles.
Follow Reagan on Social Media @thereagangrace
Visit RENEW.org to view books, articles, and more: https://renew.org/ 
Watch the Video
Key Takeaways:
00:00 Introduction and Host Welcome
05:06 The Importance of Tithing
15:12 Personal Stories and Convictions on Tithing
33:21 Young Adults and Tithing
34:15 Personal Tithing Testimonies
35:15 The Joy of Giving
37:14 Struggles and Convictions in Tithing
38:42 Trusting God with Finances
40:17 Obedience and Sacrifice
44:44 Generational Perspectives on Giving
49:12 Faith and Financial Responsibility
01:01:58 Conclusion and Final Thoughts
Subscribe to the Real Life Theology Podcast: https://reallifetheologypodcast.podbean.com/ 
Other podcasts by RENEW.org:– Scripture in Black and White: https://scriptureinblackandwhite.podbean.com/ – Step into Scripture: https://stepintoscripture.podbean.com/ 
Check out RENEW.org for resources on theology and disciple making. 
See below for a longer description:
In the "Gen Z on Giving" episode of the Real Life Theology Podcast, host Reagan Grace Gibbs, a student ministry director at Ekklesia Christian Church and social media expert, explores the practice and significance of tithing among Generation Z. Reagan is joined by her best friend, Summer Wilson, a worship leader and photographer.
Reagan introduces the topic by emphasizing the often-overlooked importance of giving within the church community, particularly among Gen Z. 
The conversation then shifts to tithing and giving, with Reagan highlighting the startling statistic that only 5% of churchgoers tithe, despite its foundational role in a relationship with God. She stresses that tithing is not just about money but about honoring and joyfully contributing to God's work. The hosts discuss the decline in giving among Gen Z, attributing it to precedents set by previous generations and misunderstandings of the concept.
Reagan and Summer differentiate between tithing (giving 10% of income to the church as commanded by God) and offering (additional giving beyond the 10%). This distinction is crucial for understanding financial contributions to the church.
Throughout the episode, the hosts share personal testimonies about tithing. Reagan recounts her father's sacrificial giving during financial struggles, leading to unexpected blessings. Summer shares her experiences of tithing on a tight budget and the embarrassment of declining tithes due to insufficient funds, yet remaining committed to giving.
The hosts address common excuses for not tithing, such as managing debt, emphasizing that God's blessings often come when people remain faithful in their giving, even in financial hardship. They argue that withholding from God during financial strain only prolongs difficulty and prevents experiencing God's provision.
Reagan and Summer discuss Gen Z's hesitance to give due to discomfort with organized religion, arguing that this stems from avoiding accountability or conviction about financial decisions. They emphasize that tithing is about faith and trust in God's promises, not the church institution.The hosts encourage Gen Z to re-evaluate their priorities and see giving as an act of obedience and worship, suggesting that prioritizing tithing can strengthen one's relationship with God. Reagan underscores the importance of putting God first in financial planning.
The episode concludes with scriptural references, such as the story of the Israelites receiving manna in the wilderness, to illustrate trusting God's provision. Reagan and Summer aim to inspire listeners to embrace tithing and offering as essential faith practices, fostering a deeper connection with God and experiencing His blessings.
Reagan wraps up by inviting listeners to follow the podcast for more discussions on faith and to connect with her and Summer on social media, reminding them to prioritize their relationship with God above all else.
#Tithing #GenZGiving #FaithAndFinances #ChurchCommunity #SacrificialGiving #SpiritualGrowth #GodsProvision #ChristianPodcast #RealLifeTheology #ReaganGraceGibbs #SummerWilson #EkklesiaChristianChurch #genz

Gen Z On Worship

Gen Z on Worship: (feat. Joel Wilson & Will Phillips)
Are you a Gen Z member passionate about worship and looking for ways to make your worship experience truly authentic and impactful? In this episode of the Real Life Theology podcast, host Regan Grace Gibbs is joined by Joel Wilson and Will Phillips to dive deep into the conversation on worship within the church.
Join us as we explore these topics and more, offering insights and practical advice from fellow Gen Z worship leaders. Whether you're on stage or behind the scenes, this episode is packed with valuable information to help you enhance your worship experience and lead with authenticity.
Don't miss out! Share this episode and join in on the conversation as we seek God's wisdom and guidance.
In this episode, host Regan Grace Gibbs, along with guests Joel Wilson and Will, explore worship within the church. They discuss the dynamics between contemporary and traditional worship styles, addressing leadership challenges, heart posture, and accountability. They also emphasize the importance of personal devotion and spiritual nourishment, whether serving on stage or behind the scenes. This episode offers insights into worship from a Gen Z perspective.
Follow Reagan on Social Media @thereagangrace
Visit RENEW.org to view books, articles, and more: https://renew.org/ 
Watch The Video: https://youtu.be/nslIy43iIBA
Time Stamps:
00:00 Introduction and Host Background
00:53 Meet the Guests: Joel and Will
01:28 Discussing Worship Roles and Instruments
02:38 Favorite Music Artists
05:05 Hot Takes on Taylor Swift
10:08 Defining Worship in Scripture
26:56 Creative Expression in Worship
27:55 Balancing Performance and Heart Posture
29:18 Overcoming Technical Challenges
31:27 Generational Perspectives on Worship
39:37 Volunteer Commitment and Sacrifice
41:12 Accountability and Expectations for Worship Leaders
48:06 Navigating Difficult Conversations
57:05 Concluding Thoughts and Reflections
Subscribe to the Real Life Theology Podcast: https://reallifetheologypodcast.podbean.com/ 
Other podcasts by RENEW.org:
– Scripture in Black and White: https://scriptureinblackandwhite.podbean.com/ 
– Step into Scripture: https://stepintoscripture.podbean.com/ 
Check out RENEW.org for resources on theology and disciple making. 
See below for a longer description:
In this episode of the Real Life Theology podcast, titled "Gen Z on Worship," host Regan Grace Gibbs, Student Ministry Director at Ecclesia Christian Church, dives into worship with guests Joel Wilson and Will Phillips. Joel is the Minister of Music at Ecclesia, and Will is the Worship Pastor at the Rock Church Conway Campus. They explore worship from a Gen Z perspective.
Regan introduces herself and the "Gen Z On" series, where she interviews Gen Z church members on important faith topics. Today’s focus is worship and its resonance with Gen Z. Joel and Will introduce themselves, sharing their roles and musical journeys.
Joel's Role: Minister of Music at Ecclesia, playing acoustic guitar and singing. Will's Role: Worship Pastor at the Rock Church, playing keys and acoustic guitar, aspiring to learn the ukulele.
They discuss their musical talents and favorite artists, reflecting their diverse tastes. The conversation then shifts to a deeper discussion on worship.
Key Points:
Scriptural Basis: Will refers to Romans, emphasizing living as a sacrifice as the true worship. They agree that worship extends beyond music to all acts of service for God.
Service as Worship: Joel highlights that roles like greeting or working at the coffee bar are also worship when done with the right heart posture.
Personal Devotion: Will stresses the importance of personal time with God, arguing that spiritual well-being is a personal responsibility.
Modern vs. Traditional Worship: They compare traditional pew settings with contemporary high-production services, agreeing that authenticity comes from the heart.
Creative Expression vs. Performance: They emphasize that worship should glorify God, and anything distracting from that should be reassessed.
Accountability: They discuss the importance of clear guidelines and relational equity within worship teams to ensure corrections are made with love and understanding.
The episode concludes with an invitation for listeners to continue exploring and discussing worship, emphasizing the value of these conversations for growth.
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Gen Z On Deconstructing

Gen Z on Deconstruction (feat. Bailey Thompson) 
In this episode of the Real Life Theology podcast, host Reagan Grace Gibbs, the student ministry director at Ekklesia Christian Church, discusses the urgent topic of faith deconstruction within Gen Z audiences. Joined by Bailey Thompson, they dive into the statistics showing the rise in religious disaffiliation among Millennials and Gen Z, the concept of deconstruction and reconstruction from a biblical perspective, and the cultural impact of influencers on faith. They emphasize the importance of discipleship, being actively involved in a local church, and the crucial role of church leaders in guiding and supporting Gen Z. Follow Reagan on Social Media @thereagangrace
Visit RENEW.org to view books, articles, and more: https://renew.org/ 
Watch the Video: https://youtu.be/TpZu2xehddc 
Key Takeaways 
00:00 Introduction and Host Background
05:30 Celebrity Influence on Faith
10:37 The Role of Church Leaders in Supporting Gen Z
13:01 The Importance of Personal Relationships in Ministry
19:12 Challenges and Solutions for Engaging Gen Z in Church
24:15 The Importance of Studying the Bible
28:54 The Impact of Social Media on Faith
35:27 Engaging with Gen Z in Ministry
37:34 Concluding Thoughts and Prayer
Subscribe to the Real Life Theology Podcast: https://reallifetheologypodcast.podbean.com/ 
Other podcasts by RENEW.org:
– Scripture in Black and White: https://scriptureinblackandwhite.podbean.com/ – Step into Scripture: https://stepintoscripture.podbean.com/ 
Check out RENEW.org for resources on theology and disciple making. 
See below for a longer description:In this episode, Reagan introduces Bailey, a worship leader and singer-songwriter from Ekklesia Christian Church. Together, they dive deep into the topic of Gen Z and their relationship with faith, particularly focusing on deconstruction and reconstruction of beliefs. Reagan highlights alarming statistics pointing to Gen Z as the least religious generation in American history. She references Ryan Burge’s research, showing a significant increase in the number of millennials and Gen Z individuals with zero religious affiliation. Bailey and Reagan discuss these trends and the potential reasons behind them, such as less parental influence on religious upbringing. The conversation covers the concept of deconstruction, contrasting its healthy and harmful forms. Reagan explains how Jesus exemplified healthy deconstruction by confronting the false teachings and hypocrisy of religious leaders. In contrast, Reagan and Bailey discuss the modern trend of deconstruction, where individuals systematically dismantle and often reject their faith due to various reasons, including church hurt.
Bailey brings in insights from Lisa Childers, who defines deconstruction as a popular trend among millennial and Gen Z Christians. They also touch on how celebrities openly share their deconstruction journeys, influencing their young followers' faith decisions. Reagan emphasizes the crucial role of church leaders in supporting and guiding Gen Z through these processes, rather than just attacking them. Reagan shares personal anecdotes about the importance of church community and mentorship in her faith journey. She recounts how church leaders, including her parents and student ministry leaders, have been foundational in her spiritual growth. This leads to a discussion on the importance of discipleship and being actively involved in a local church, both for personal growth and to foster a supportive faith community for Gen Z.
Reagan and Bailey stress that students need consistent biblical study and community involvement to thrive spiritually. Reagan talks about her church's emphasis on discipleship, mentioning their multi-generational vision and various ministries that cater to different age groups. Bailey adds examples of how older generations in the church mentor younger members, creating a nurturing environment for spiritual growth. They also address the challenges and misconceptions about student ministry, highlighting the importance of building authentic relationships with students. Both Reagan and Bailey believe that genuine discipleship involves walking with students through their spiritual journeys, providing guidance and support along the way.
Wrapping up the episode, Reagan discusses the powerful impact of prayer and how it can transform lives. Bailey closes with a heartfelt prayer for Gen Z, asking for God’s guidance and blessing over them. She prays for leaders to be equipped to steward these young hearts well, fostering safe spaces for meaningful conversations and growth. Tune in to this insightful episode to understand more about the spiritual dynamics affecting Gen Z and how to approach the topics of deconstruction and reconstruction of faith. Follow Reagan on all her social media platforms to stay updated on future episodes and engaging discussions. Until next time be blessed.#GenZ #RealLifeTheology #GenZOnFaith #Deconstruction  #Reconstruction
 
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Gen Z On Relationships

Gen Z on Relationships
Interested in hearing a conversation about both relationships and friendships from a Gen Z Perspective? Well then this episode is for you. Reagan Grace and her husband Manny answer questions like the following:
What does a Christ-centered relationship look like?How do you approach forgiveness and move past hurt in relationships? What are your biggest suggestions for finding a good Godly relationship? How can you combat temptations in relationships when you are saving yourself for Marriage? 
Have more questions about this topic? → Please like, subscribe, and comment on this episode. You can also reach out to Reagan on social media @thereagangrace
Watch the Video:
Key Takeaways
00:00 Introduction to the new series GEN Z ON
01:31 Romantic Relationships: A Biblical Perspective
03:51 The Role of Love and Sacrifice in Relationships
10:41 Cultural Influences on Modern Relationships
13:46 Navigating Privacy and Publicity in Relationships
19:02 Q&A: Addressing Your Relationship Concerns
20:27 Navigating Secular Culture and Prayer
21:51 Christ-Centered Relationships: Expectations vs. Reality
23:52 The Purpose of Christian Dating and Marriage
30:22 Forgiveness and Communication in Relationships
33:00 Finding a Godly Relationship
34:43 Combating Temptations and Understanding Purity
38:21 The Importance of Friendships and Accountability
47:32 Closing Thoughts and Prayer
 
Subscribe to the Real Life Theology Podcast: https://reallifetheologypodcast.podbean.com/ 
Check out RENEW.org for resources on theology and disciple-making. 
See below for a longer description:
Gen Z and Relationships!
In this kick of episode of the Real Life Theology Podcast’s new series “GEN Z ON” , host Reagan Grace Gibbs, along with her husband Manny Gibbs, dive into the complexities of relationships for Gen Z from a biblical perspective. They discuss romantic relationships, friendships, and the role of faith and accountability. Covering topics such as the importance of Christ-centered relationships, combating temptations, and the significance of forgiveness, this conversation is enriched with scripture and personal insights. Join Reagan and Manny as they share their journey, answer audience questions, and provide valuable advice for young Christians navigating their faith and relationships.
If you would like to follow Reagan on social media search @thereagangrace on any social platform. 
This series geared towards a Gen Z audience is a series where Reagan interviews different members of Gen Z in the church to discuss urgent topics of faith. Today's episode focuses on relationships, both romantic and platonic, and features a special co-host, Reagan's husband, Manny Gibbs. Manny serves in the student ministry and is also pursuing a medical career. The episode begins by addressing why relationships were highly requested by Reagan's Instagram followers. They go into the importance of discussing romantic and friendship dynamics separately, offering insights and experiences from their own relationship. Reagan opens with Song of Solomon 8:7, highlighting the unquenchable nature of love. Key points include discussing their young marriage at 18 and the pressures it brought, as well as the misconception of finding perfect love in a human partner versus the eternal and fulfilling love of Jesus.
Manny and Reagan critique cultural narratives around romantic relationships, pointing out the pitfalls of idolizing earthly love over divine love. They use examples from pop culture, such as the tumultuous relationship of celebrities like Johnny Depp and Amber Heard, to illustrate the destructive nature of publicly aired, toxic relationships. The conversation stresses the importance of Christ leading a relationship to prevent chaos and maintain a healthy, God-centered dynamic.In response to audience questions, Reagan and Manny tackle topics like incorporating prayer into a relationship, Christ-centered dating, and approaching forgiveness. Manny emphasizes the value of prayer and its perceived awkwardness in a secular culture, while Reagan provides practical advice on dating with the intention of marriage, setting boundaries to combat temptation, and understanding purity within and outside of marriage.
Transitioning to friendships, Reagan opens up about her challenges in maintaining friendships and the significance of surrounding oneself with friends who also sit at the feet of Jesus. Manny adds a male perspective, stressing the importance of accountability and the pitfalls of adopting a 'not my business' stance with friends. They both agree on the critical role of having friends who are honest and rooted in biblical truth. The episode wraps up with Manny’s prayer, asking for wisdom and strength to maintain relationships that glorify God. They thank all of you for joining and hope to see you next time on the Real Life Theology Podcast. 
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Transforming Traditional Churches: Embracing Missional Multiplication | S7 Ep. 9

For more information about other Renew.Org podcasts visit: https://renew.org/media/podcasts/ 
Welcome back to season seven of the Real Life Theology podcast, a Renew.org resource dedicated to renewing the teachings of Jesus to fuel disciple-making movements. In this episode, Paul Huyghebaert dives into a compelling discussion about guiding traditional American churches toward missional multiplication.
Explore the challenges and opportunities of transitioning from an attractional church model, focused on 'come and see,' to a missional model that emphasizes 'go and be.' Paul shares practical insights and personal experiences on how to foster a disciple-making culture within your church.
If you're seeking to understand how your church can move towards a framework that champions missional multiplication, this episode is a must-listen. Join us and be inspired to embrace the brave mission Jesus has called us to.
Stay tuned for the upcoming season featuring Reagan Gibbs, who will introduce a new series titled Gen Z on, exploring the experiences and perspectives of the Gen Z audience in today's world. See you next time on the Real Life Theology Podcast!
 
Watch our 2024 Gathering Main Session Recordings
 
 
     

Rethinking Church Models (feat. Todd Wilson) | S7 Ep. 8

For more information about other Renew.Org podcasts visit: https://renew.org/media/podcasts/ 
Rethinking Church Models: A Shift Towards Multiplication and Disciple-Making
Today's Episode talks about the challenges and systemic issues within modern church models, emphasizing the need for a shift from consumer-driven models to a more discipleship and multiplication-focused approach. It explores historical changes in life expectancy and technological advancement to question why the church struggles with certain 'lists' or challenges despite societal progress. The speaker emphasizes the importance of letting go of control and cooperating with God, recognizing the baggage and outdated operating systems that hinder growth and effective ministry. Through discussing the distinctions between operating systems and models, it highlights how many churches have drifted towards seeking conversions and consumer satisfaction rather than genuine disciple-making. The speaker addresses various dilemmas facing the church, including legacy, mission, customer focus, and economic models, and introduces the idea of a new operating system grounded in prayer, fasting, and a re-evaluation of traditional church growth strategies. The conclusion points towards a church planting and operational model that prioritizes discerning God's will, redefines success beyond numbers, and considers economic liberation, ecclesiology, and the essence of true, impactful ministry.
Key Takeaways 00:00 The Quest for Simplicity in Church Operations00:35 Reflecting on Technological Advancements and Life Expectancy01:21 The Importance of Cooperation with God in Church Leadership04:05 Dissecting the Current Church Operating System06:49 Addressing the Dilemmas of the Consumer-Driven Church Model19:18 Introducing a New Operating System for Church Planting23:05 Redefining Church Success and Economic Models27:59 Ecclesiology and the Future of Church Mission
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See Below for a longer description:          In the today's episode Todd Wilson goes deep into the complexities of church operating systems, challenging conventional norms and urging listeners to rethink their approach to ministry. The episode opens with a profound reflection on the rapid technological advancements and societal shifts that have doubled the average life expectancy, setting the stage for a critical examination of the current state of church practices.The speaker passionately explores the idea of operating systems in churches, emphasizing the difference between models and systems. Drawing on personal anecdotes and industry trends, he navigates through the evolution of church strategies over the years, from the prevalence of 'The Purpose Driven Church' model to the emergence of new paradigms focused on gospel saturation and disciple-making.          Throughout the episode, the speaker dissects eight key dilemmas plaguing modern church systems, ranging from legacy and end-game considerations to the role of consumerism and programmatic approaches in driving church growth. He challenges listeners to embrace a more holistic mission beyond mere conversions, advocating for a shift towards mobilizing everyday missionaries and fostering a culture of disciple-making.            As the episode unfolds, the narrative delves into the economic intricacies of church operations, highlighting the influence of tithes, offerings, and alternative financial models based on liberated economic principles. The speaker paints a vivid picture of a shifting landscape where business for mission models and unconventional funding sources are reshaping the future of church planting and sustainability.The exploration of ecclesiology brings a fresh perspective on what defines a church in today's context, challenging traditional notions and prompting reflection on the essence of community, mission, and discipleship. The episode culminates with a powerful discussion on the driving forces behind church operating systems, emphasizing the importance of Acts 2-inspired fellowship and collective empowerment in fueling impactful, sustainable ministry efforts.            Listeners are invited on a thought-provoking journey through the intricacies of church leadership, growth, and impact, woven together with personal anecdotes, industry insights, and compelling arguments for reimagining the way we approach ministry in today's ever-changing landscape. S7 Ep. 8 stands as a beacon of innovation and introspection, challenging listeners to break free from conventional norms and embrace a new era of church practices rooted in mission, discipleship, and transformative community engagement.
Watch our 2024 Gathering Main Session Recordings
 
 
     

The Call To Disciple Making (feat. Josh Howard) | S7 Ep. 7

For more information about other Renew.Org podcasts visit: https://renew.org/media/podcasts/ 
Transforming Lives Through Disciple Making Movements: A Worker's Journey in India
Josh Howard, a worker who has lived in India for over 15 years, shares his transformative experience of leading and witnessing disciple making movements in India. Starting with a moment of prayer and inviting the Holy Spirit to guide the session, Josh introduces himself, mentioning his background and family. He highlights the importance of asking oneself whether they are a disciple worth reproducing and shares a powerful narrative of initial failures and eventual successes in disciple making. Through his story, Josh emphasizes the critical role of prayer and fasting in achieving spiritual breakthroughs and the unexpected results of equipping ordinary people to start discipleship movements. Highlighting key lessons learned, such as the necessity of relinquishing control and allowing the Holy Spirit to work, Josh's narrative encourages viewers to reconsider their approach to discipleship and the potential within every individual to initiate a movement that can profoundly impact their nation and beyond. His story is a testament to the power of God working through ordinary individuals to achieve extraordinary things.
Key Takeaways 00:00 Opening Prayer and Invitation for the Holy Spirit01:30 Introduction and Personal Background02:39 The Journey of Faith and Discipleship in India03:19 Challenges and Breakthroughs in Disciple Making05:45 The Power of Prayer, Fasting, and Humility09:27 Launching a Movement: Expectations vs. Reality12:13 Learning from Unexpected Success14:22 The Potential in Every Believer for Disciple Making17:00 The Key to Movement: Releasing Control and Embracing God's Will
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Watch our 2024 Gathering Main Session Recordings
 
 
     

Ron Johnson Movements in Denver CO | S7 Ep. 6

For more information about other Renew.Org podcasts visit: https://renew.org/media/podcasts/ 
Transforming Faith: From Traditional Churches to Disciple Movements
Ron Johnson, the founding pastor of Restoration Church, shares his journey from skepticism to embracing disciple-making movements (DMM) in the U.S. and abroad, including Nepal and India. Initially focused on planting Pavilion Model churches, Johnson's perspective shifted during COVID-19 as he saw the potential for rapid expansion through DMM. His church has since initiated numerous discovery Bible studies, leading to hundreds of baptisms and the establishment of over 1,200 simple churches. Johnson emphasizes the transition from a church growth mindset to a kingdom mindset, the importance of moving from addition to multiplication, and shifting from knowledge-based to obedience-based discipleship. Despite challenges, Johnson advocates for running traditional and movement-based approaches in parallel, highlighting the unique challenges and rewards of each approach.
Key Takeaways 00:00 Introduction: Meet Ron Johnson00:20 The Journey Begins: Embracing Disciple Making Movements00:31 The Impact of COVID on Church Growth and Strategy01:59 A Shift in Strategy: From Traditional Churches to Movements02:51 The Role of the Holy Spirit and Prayer in Movement Growth03:16 Embracing Diversity: The Global South's Influence03:46 Lessons Learned and the Path Forward05:17 Final Thoughts and Encouragement
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See Below for additional information: This episode on the Real Life Theology Podcast features Ron Johnson, a follower of Jesus Christ and a pastor at Restoration Church. Ron shares his journey of transitioning from traditional church models to disciple-making movements. He discusses the impact of COVID, the growth of simple churches, the role of prayer and the Holy Spirit, and the challenges of balancing prevailing model church practices with a movement strategy. Ron emphasizes the importance of shifting mindset from church growth to kingdom focus and obedience-based discipleship. He reflects on the hybrid approach and concludes that running prevailing model and movement separately but complimentary is more effective. Ron's story showcases the growth of over 1,200 simple churches in their city and thousands more globally, driven by a diverse community and a strong emphasis on prayer and obedience to God.
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You can find us on:Instagram: @the.renew.network Facebook: Renew.org Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@RENEWnetworkTwitter: @therenewnetworkTikTok: the.renew.network Rumble: https://rumble.com/c/RENEW
 
Watch our 2024 Gathering Main Session Recordings
 
 

Navigating Church Leadership in a Changing World | S7 Ep. 5

Navigating Church Leadership and Discipleship in a Changing World
For more information about other Renew.Org podcasts visit: https://renew.org/media/podcasts/ 
Piggybacking off the past 4 episodes this track goes into detail on some very relevant questions about discipleship, and culture. This session engaged with individuals who asked some critical questions so that we could draw some important lessons from them.
This episode features a discussion on church leadership, discipleship, and the innovative approaches to ensure the sustainability and growth of church missions within changing cultural contexts. Leaders share experiences and strategies on financial modeling, making disciples who make disciples, and the concept of failing forward as a method to discover effective practices in ministry. The dialogue also tackles the critique of traditional church models and the necessity of church planting, alongside enhancing existing churches to fulfill the mission of spreading the gospel more effectively in today's world. Critical points include rethinking financial models to support outreach and discipleship, embracing failure as a learning tool for improvement, and the challenge of balancing the need for new church plants with the call for unity and efficiency within the existing church landscape.
Key Takeaways
00:00 Opening Remarks and Q&A Session Kickoff00:54 Deep Dive into Financial Models and Church Budgeting03:44 Embracing Failure and Innovation in Church Leadership07:53 Rethinking Church Models: A Case Study on Cutting Sermons08:49 The Debate on Church Planting in Saturated Areas17:50 Revolutionary vs. Evolutionary Change in Churches
For more information about other Renew.Org podcasts visit: https://renew.org/media/podcasts/ 
 
Watch our 2024 Gathering Main Session Recordings
 
 
     

How To Start a Disciple Making Movement | S7 Ep. 4

For more information about other Renew.Org podcasts visit: https://renew.org/media/podcasts/ 
In this engaging discussion, three friends, Ryan, Russ, and Tom, share their journeys toward fostering disciple-making movements within their respective churches. Each speaker highlights the fundamental importance of prayer, obedience, and sharing the teachings of Jesus as core to sparking spiritual movements. Ryan begins by reflecting on his personal challenges and realizations, emphasizing the pivotal role of prayer in connecting with God and facilitating change. He shares how his church has incorporated various forms of prayer into their regular activities, emphasizing the power of prayer in disciple-making. Russ and Tom further elaborate on the practical aspects of creating disciple-making communities, stressing simplicity, the Holy Spirit's guidance, and practical tools like the Discovery Bible Study. Collectively, they underline the transformative potential of seeking God wholeheartedly and the need for churches to focus on supporting discipleship in practical, everyday contexts.
Key Takeaways 
00:00 Welcoming the Panel: Insights into Disciple Making Movements00:30 Practical Steps Towards Disciple Making: Ryan's Journey01:24 The Power of Prayer in Disciple Making04:22 A Moment of Prayer and Reflection06:04 Expanding the Prayer Movement: Ryan's Church Initiatives07:25 Russ's Perspective: Friendship and Practical Disciple Making10:19 Tom's Unique Approach to Disciple Making and Multiplication14:49 Concluding Thoughts on Disciple Making and Prayer18:38 The Essential Principles of Disciple Making Movements
 
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Practical Next Steps to Shift Culture and Launch New Churches | S7 Ep. 3

Jeff Duerler starts off this track by talking about some practical next steps to shift culture and launch new churches. He shares his own experience with his church on steps they have taken towards the disciple-making movement. Jeff hands it off to Paul Huyghebaert who continues the conversation and shares his personal experience. 
 
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