The Disciple Maker‘s Podcast· Folge 737
Decentralized, Diverse Discipleship Communities | 2025 National Disciple Making Forum (Jason Shepperd)
Montag, 28. Juli 2025 · 1 h 01
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Shownotes
Track Session 2: Decentralized, Diverse Discipleship Communities
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While most churches’ group structures operate as homogeneous friend groups, the Early Church gathered in diverse, cross-generational communities operating as a spiritual family. Discover the need to return to this fullest expression of the church in House Churches.
Revisiting Ecclesiology: House Churches and the DNA of True Biblical Communities
In this insightful episode, Jason Shepherd, founder of Church Project, shares his journey of starting a church 15 years ago with a vision of creating authentic biblical communities. Without a designated church name, the project focuses on rediscovering Christ's original intent for the church. Shepherd discusses the key elements of ecclesiological DNA (EDNA), emphasizing distributed pastoral leadership, decentralized structures, and diverse discipleship communities. He explores the historical and biblical foundation of house churches, citing scripture to argue for their continued relevance. Shepherd also provides practical insights into the formation, growth, and management of house churches, and how they engage with benevolent activities and student ministries. This episode challenges conventional church models, advocating for smaller, mission-focused, relationally-rich communities.
Key Takeaways
Introduction and Speaker Background
Understanding Ecclesiology
The Concept of House Church
House Church in Practice
House Church Multiplication
Small Groups vs. House Churches
Qualities of a New Testament House Church
Q&A Session
Evaluating the Health of Your House Church
The Importance of Hospitality
Developing House Church Pastors
Scheduling and Meeting Logistics
Balancing Growth and Intimacy
Handling Kids in House Church
Financial Practices and Benevolence
Connecting Newcomers to House Churches
Final Q&A and Closing Remarks
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