Episode 199 - How to Evaluate Whether Your Equipping Strategy is Actually Working

This section emphasizes the key distinction between teaching—introducing information—and training—applying that information through practice. The speakers argue that the church is good at teaching character traits and biblical knowledge but is weak in training people in competencies (skills like sharing the gospel or praying) that are vital for leadership development. They highlight how discipleship requires active practice and repetition, akin to learning to drive or play sports, and critique the common church focus on passive learning via sermons and content delivery.

The discussion centers on the importance of having a specific strategy or 'multiplication vehicle' dedicated to developing disciple-making leaders. Many churches have wide-ranging ministries but lack a focused process that intentionally develops leaders who can multiply themselves. The speakers describe a four-step process—model, explain, apply, develop—that must be embedded into these vehicles. The analogy of learning to drive illustrates how skills are best acquired through modeling, explanation, practice, and mastery. Implementing such a process enables churches to create scalable disciple-making environments.

The speakers stress that leadership development should not be a separate track from disciple-making; instead, they must be integrated. Effective leaders in the church are first disciple makers, and their ability to lead others flows from their own discipleship. The conversation also covers different modes of applying this process—workshops, microgroups, or apprenticeship models—highlighting the need for intentionality and a high standard, such as the Multiply Groups, which are designed to foster exponential growth and leadership.

Concluding practical advice, the speakers encourage church leaders to start small and simple—using resources like the D-group starter guide—and to see this as a spiritual obedience rather than a complex program. They share stories of individuals experiencing transformation through these disciple groups, illustrating real-life impact. Emphasizing that anyone can start this process regardless of church size or experience, they urge leaders to take action—just begin with a few people and trust the Holy Spirit to work.