Raising the Bar: How a 153-Year-Old Church Embraced Radical Discipleship

Key takeaways

Discipleship is crucial and should be a fundamental aspect of church culture.
Churches must raise expectations and redefine membership requirements to include active participation in discipleship.
Digital tools can aid in disciple-making, focusing on relational connections.
Real growth in church does not just refer to numerical increases but rather genuine transformations in individuals' lives.
Pastors and leaders must recognize their role and commitment in leading and revitalizing their churches.
Attending conferences as a team can enhance church culture and leadership effectiveness.

Summary

Introduction of DZ and the Conference

The episode welcomes DZ, the pastor of Good Hope Missionary Baptist Church, who will be a speaker at the upcoming National Disciplemaking Forum in Houston. DZ shares his excitement and the affirmation he felt after attending the conference for the first time, discussing how he transitioned from feeling isolated to becoming an advocate for a disciple-making culture.

Shifting from Attractional to Discipleship Model

DZ explains his journey toward shifting his church from a traditional attractional model to a disciple-making culture. He emphasizes that every believer is a disciple and outlines how the church must raise the bar on discipleship, making it a requirement for membership.

Raising Expectations for Membership and Discipleship

The conversation addresses the dangers of consumerism within the church. DZ highlights the necessity for churches to set higher expectations for members, advocating for the idea that discipleship is not just a program, but a required aspect of being part of the church.

Utilizing Digital Tools for Discipleship

DZ discusses how digital tools can enhance discipleship, reflecting on a conversation with a younger church member about the value of relational connection over physical presence. He underscores the importance of being open-hearted and adaptable in the disciple-making process.

Redefining Church Growth Philosophy

In talking about church growth, DZ stresses that real growth is seen in people's lives being transformed rather than just numbers. He discusses moving past the competition between churches and focusing on the church's mission to equip believers.

Encouragement for Church Leaders

DZ offers encouragement for churches that want to initiate cultural shifts, emphasizing understanding the concept of a reset properly and recognizing the vital role of pastors in driving change. He shares his revitalization experience at Good Hope.

Invitation to the National Disciplemaking Forum

The episode concludes with an invitation for listeners, particularly pastors, to attend the National Disciplemaking Forum. DZ emphasizes the importance of attending the conference with a team to maximize the investments and insights gained.

Show notes

Pastor DZ of Good Hope Missionary Baptist (Houston) joins the Disciplemakers podcast to share how he shifted a traditional, 153-year-old church from an attractional 'churchtainment' model to a disciple-making culture. He discusses raising expectations for membership, making discipleship a requirement, using life groups and digital tools, and investing in leadership to grow spiritually mature believers who make other disciples.

They also talk about the National Disciplemaking Forum, practical first steps for leaders wanting to reset their church’s operating system, and the joy and renewed purpose that comes from aligning ministry with Jesus’ call to make disciples.