Introduction

In this episode of Church as a Team Sport, Lance Wigton and Jim Putman discuss the importance of doctrinal alignment in the local church. Many churches today face division due to differing theological views, cultural pressures, and personal preferences. Jim unpacks why a strong, biblically rooted doctrine is essential for church unity, discipleship, and spiritual maturity. Through practical examples and biblical wisdom, they explore how churches can align their people, clarify beliefs, and equip members to stand firm in truth.

Key Takeaways

1. The Need for Doctrinal Clarity and Alignment

• Many believers come from diverse backgrounds, bringing different theological understandings.
• The church must clearly define its beliefs and expectations to maintain unity.
• Doctrinal alignment helps prevent division and keeps the church focused on its mission.

2. Biblical Unity Requires Shared Language and Vision

• Paul emphasized "one Lord, one faith, one baptism" (Ephesians 4:4-6) as the foundation of church unity.
• Like a sports team or business, a church must have a clear playbook that everyone follows.
• Church leaders must consistently reinforce vision and doctrine to prevent drift.

3. The Role of Membership and Leadership Training

• A strong membership process ensures that those who join understand the church’s mission, doctrine, and expectations.
• Leadership classes and ongoing training keep members aligned and growing in maturity.
• Membership isn't just about attendance—it’s about commitment to a shared mission.

4. The Impact of Cultural Shifts on Doctrine

• Churches today face increasing pressure to adapt to cultural trends, but biblical truth does not change.
• Issues like gender roles, sexuality, and biblical authority require clarity in teaching.
• Historical Christianity provides a firm foundation—our understanding of Scripture should align with how it has been interpreted for centuries.

5. Discipleship as the Key to Discernment

• Believers who are not discipled struggle to discern truth from cultural distortions.
• Churches must equip members to stand firm in Scripture and resist false teachings.
• Spiritual growth requires intentionality—through Scripture, prayer, and community.

Discussion Questions

1. Why is doctrinal unity important in the church? How does it impact discipleship and mission?
2. Have you ever experienced confusion or division due to differing theological views? How was it handled?
3. What role should church membership play in aligning believers with a shared vision?
4. How can Christians navigate cultural shifts while remaining faithful to biblical truth?
5. What steps can you take to become more grounded in your faith and better equipped to discern truth?

Action Steps

• Examine Your Own Understanding: Are your beliefs rooted in Scripture or personal preference?
• Commit to Doctrinal Alignment: If you’re part of a church, seek to understand and align with its core teachings.
• Engage in Discipleship: Join a small group, take a leadership class, or seek mentorship to grow in faith.
• Be Aware of Cultural Influences: Regularly evaluate the sources shaping your worldview and compare them to Scripture.
• Encourage Others in Their Faith: Help others understand the importance of sound doctrine and biblical unity.

Closing Encouragement

In a world filled with shifting beliefs and conflicting messages, standing firm in biblical truth is more important than ever. The church is not meant to be a collection of individual players but a unified team, working together under the same vision. As you continue your journey of faith, stay rooted in Scripture, committed to discipleship, and aligned with a community that seeks to glorify God.

Scripture References

• Ephesians 4:4-6 – One Lord, one faith, one baptism.
• 1 Corinthians 1:10 – Being of one mind, united in thought and purpose.
• 2 Timothy 3:16-17 – All Scripture is God-breathed and useful for teaching.
• Matthew 4:1-11 – Jesus resisting temptation through Scripture.
• John 14:27 – The peace that Christ gives is not like the world's peace.

For more resources, visit JimPutman.com.

Introduction:

In this episode of Church is a Team Sport, Lance and Jim dive into a crucial leadership principle: the "leadership lid." Every leader has limitations, and those limitations affect the entire team. They discuss how to assess personal leadership growth, receive constructive feedback, and build a culture of coaching and accountability within the church. This conversation is packed with practical insights on developing leaders from within, creating a culture where coaching is the norm, and ensuring that leadership growth doesn't become the limiting factor in the church’s mission.

Key Takeaways:

1.   Leadership Growth Determines the Church’s Capacity:

o  Just like an athlete must continue training to improve, a leader must consistently develop to avoid capping the growth of the church.

o  Leaders must be self-aware, acknowledging their weaknesses and allowing others to fill in their gaps.

o  A coaching culture creates an environment where feedback is welcomed and expected.

2.   The Importance of Receiving and Filtering Feedback:

o  Leaders must learn to distinguish between helpful, godly feedback and unhelpful criticism.

o  Wise counsel from trusted individuals helps confirm or challenge areas needing growth (Proverbs 11:14).

o  Having a strong accountability system prevents leaders from blind spots that could hinder the church’s mission.

3.   Raising Up Leaders from Within:

o  A healthy church culture fosters leadership development by giving people opportunities to lead.

o  Instead of hiring externally, building leaders from within ensures continuity in mission and values.

o  Coaching others means embracing a team mindset where success is measured by the growth of others.

4.   Balancing Leadership Strengths and Weaknesses:

o  Leaders should grow in weaker areas while also empowering those gifted in those spaces.

o  Emotional and spiritual health are just as important as leadership skills—burnout or personal struggles can limit effectiveness.

o  Leaders must know when to step back for rest and renewal rather than pushing through at the expense of their well-being.

5.   Creating a Culture of Coaching and Accountability:

o  Leaders set the tone for coaching by modeling humility and a willingness to be coached.

o  Honest feedback should be welcomed at all levels—up, down, and across leadership teams.

o  Regular assessments, such as a 360-degree review, help ensure accurate self-awareness and growth.

Discussion Questions:

• What are some areas where you feel you might be a "leadership lid" for your team or ministry?
• How do you typically respond to feedback—defensively or with a willingness to grow?
• Who are the trusted people in your life that you allow to speak into your leadership?
• In what ways can you help foster a culture of coaching and accountability in your church or ministry?
• How do you balance leadership development with emotional and spiritual health?

Action Steps:

• Assess Your Leadership Lid: Take time to reflect on where you may be limiting growth in your ministry.
• Seek Honest Feedback: Ask trusted mentors, peers, or team members to give you constructive input on your leadership.
• Create a Coaching Culture: Lead by example—show humility in receiving coaching and actively mentor others.
• Prioritize Spiritual and Emotional Health: Ensure you’re in a place of health so you can lead effectively without burnout.
• Invest in Leadership Development: Encourage those around you to step up, take responsibility, and grow in their calling.

Closing Encouragement:

Leadership isn’t about having all the answers—it’s about being willing to learn, grow, and empower others. As you continue leading in your church or ministry, remember that God is the one who determines the mission’s success, not our personal strengths or weaknesses. Keep developing, stay accountable, and create a culture where coaching is embraced. Together, we can build a thriving, disciple-making church where leaders grow and multiply.

Scripture References:

• Proverbs 11:14 – “Where there is no guidance, a people falls, but in an abundance of counselors there is safety.”
• Matthew 4:1-11 – Jesus' reliance on scripture to combat temptation.
• John 14:27 – Jesus' promise of peace amid struggles.
• Ephesians 4:11-16 – Equipping the saints for ministry and leadership growth.
• 2 Timothy 2:2 – The call to entrust leadership to faithful people who will teach others.

Be sure to check out more resources on leadership and discipleship at JimPutman.com. See you next time!

Ep. 15: Building a Healthy Church Through Biblical Eldership

In this episode, Lance Wigton and Jim Putman discuss the critical role of eldership in the church. They explore how biblical eldership isn't about decision-making power but about living out discipleship and shepherding the church family.

The conversation highlights the importance of raising up elders from within the church, ensuring alignment in vision, values, and relational discipleship.

· Key Takeaways:

Eldership Should Be Rooted in Discipleship:

• Elders should be people who live out the faith, not just decision-makers.
• They must demonstrate maturity in head (knowledge), heart (love for God and others), and hands (action).

Raising Up Leaders from Within the Church Prevents Cultural Clashes:

• Hiring pastors from outside often leads to misalignment in vision and philosophy.
• Elders who are raised through a discipleship process share a common foundation.

Church Leadership Should Not Be a Political System:

• Many churches operate eldership like a congressional system, where leaders respond to the desires of the people rather than seeking God’s vision.
• True biblical eldership listens to God first and leads the church accordingly.

Discipleship Should Lead to Leadership Development:

• Churches should not have to outsource leadership but should develop it through intentional discipleship.
• Elders and pastors should have a history of shared ministry and trust within the church.

The Role of Elders is to Oversee and Model Discipleship:

• Elders should be active in disciple-making, not just administrative tasks.
• Their leadership should be based on experience in shepherding people, not just tenure in the church.

Discussion Questions:

1. What does biblical eldership look like, and how does it differ from common church leadership structures?
2. How does your church develop leaders? Are elders raised from within or brought in from the outside?
3. In what ways can elders and pastors ensure they are leading with a discipleship mindset rather than a business model?
4. What role does relational discipleship play in your church's leadership development?
5. How can a church navigate changes in leadership while maintaining unity and biblical direction?

Action Steps:

• Evaluate Your Church’s Leadership Structure:
• Are your elders living out discipleship, or are they just decision-makers?
• Develop a Process for Raising Up Leaders:
• Invest in discipleship that leads to leadership within the church.
• Ensure Alignment Between Elders and Pastors:
• Regularly assess if leadership shares the same vision and mission.
• Encourage a Culture of Spiritual Growth:
• Shift from comfort-based leadership to mission-driven leadership.

· Closing Encouragement:

Biblical eldership isn’t about power—it’s about shepherding and discipleship. When elders are raised up through a shared discipleship process, the church functions as a true spiritual family, avoiding division and fostering spiritual growth. By prioritizing God’s vision over human preferences, churches can create a strong, unified foundation that withstands challenges and advances the gospel.

· Scripture References:

• Titus 1:5 – Appointing elders in every town.
• Ephesians 4:12 – Equipping the saints for ministry.
• 1 Timothy 3:1-7 – Qualifications of an elder.
• Acts 20:28 – Elders as shepherds of the church.
• 2 Timothy 2:2 – Passing leadership to faithful men who will teach others.

Ep. 14: Functioning as a Team

This episode of Church as a Team Sport focuses on the importance of teamwork within the body of Christ. Jim Putman and Lance Wigton discuss how churches can avoid division and instead function as a unified team, where every member values one another’s unique contributions. They highlight the dangers of personal preferences overriding the mission, the need for alignment in vision, and the spiritual battle to maintain unity.

Key Takeaways

• Satan’s Strategy: Divide and Conquer
• “If we get them fighting in the huddle, we own them on the line of scrimmage.”
• The enemy works to divide the church by isolating people and making them compete instead of cooperating.
• Disunity weakens the church’s ability to fulfill its mission.
• Individual Roles Must Align with a Collective Vision
• The church has different ministries (recovery, sports, worship, youth, etc.), but all must align under the same mission—making disciples.
• Differences in passion and gifts should not create division but should be seen as valuable contributions to the whole.
• Every team within the church must work together rather than competing for attention, resources, or validation.
• Balancing Individual Gifting with Teamwork
• Just like a football team needs quarterbacks, linemen, and receivers, the church needs a diversity of roles.
• Each person has specific gifts, but those gifts should serve the team, not just individual preferences.
• A right tackle and a quarterback have different skills, but both are necessary for success.
• Spiritual Maturity Includes Valuing Others’ Gifts
• Many churches fall into the trap of prioritizing certain ministries over others, creating silos.
• True spiritual maturity recognizes the value of all roles—teaching, shepherding, worship, outreach, and more.
• Jesus’ prayer in John 17 emphasized unity as a key identifier of His disciples.
• Vision-Casting is Essential to Prevent Division
• Leaders must continually remind the church of the shared mission to prevent ministries from becoming self-focused.
• A church with multiple ministries should ensure they see each other as partners, not competitors.
• Church leadership should model and teach unity, reinforcing the idea that different roles serve the same Kingdom purpose.
• Pride is the Enemy of Teamwork
• People either overestimate their importance (“I’m the only one that matters”) or underestimate it (“I don’t matter at all”).
• Both attitudes hurt the team—one creates division, the other creates disengagement.
• The focus should always be on Christ and His mission, not individual preferences.
• Diversity in Unity is a Strength, Not a Weakness
• Different churches may emphasize different strengths (teaching, worship, service), but a healthy church values a variety of gifts.
• The church should reflect a full picture of the body of Christ rather than fragmenting into like-minded groups.
• Valuing different perspectives and gifts strengthens the church’s witness and effectiveness.

Discussion Questions

• How do you see division affecting the church today?
• In what ways has pride—either thinking too much or too little of yourself—affected your role in the church?
• Are there ministry areas within your church that seem to compete rather than collaborate? How can you help foster unity?
• How do you balance using your individual gifts while still being a team player in the church?
• What steps can you take to value and support other ministries within your church?

Action Steps

• Identify any personal biases that might cause division and commit to valuing the whole body of Christ.
• Encourage and support other ministries within your church instead of competing for attention or resources.
• If you lead a ministry, take time to communicate how your work aligns with the church’s overall vision.
• Intentionally connect with people from different church ministries to understand and appreciate their contributions.
• Pray for unity in your church, asking God to help align everyone under His mission rather than personal preferences.

Closing Encouragement

A church that functions as a team is a church that thrives. When each person values others’ contributions and stays focused on the bigger mission, the body of Christ grows stronger. Unity is not about uniformity—it’s about bringing our different gifts together under the lordship of Jesus. Stay committed to the team, serve with humility, and let’s build a church that truly reflects the Kingdom of God.

Scripture References

• John 17:20-23
• 1 Corinthians 12:12-27
• Ephesians 4:1-6
• Philippians 2:1-4
• Romans 12:3-8

Looking forward to next time as we discuss Communication with Elders and Leadership!

Introduction

This episode of Church as a Team Sport dives into one of the most crucial aspects of discipleship—raising up leaders. Jim Putnam and Lance Wigton discuss how to identify emerging leaders, equip them for ministry, and release them into their calling without abandoning them. Leadership development in the church isn’t just about filling roles; it’s about helping people step into their God-given purpose within the body of Christ.

Key Takeaways

• Relational Discipleship Requires Both Mission and Community
• A group focused only on mission without relationship lacks the family dynamic of the church.
• A group focused only on relationship without mission becomes stagnant and insulated.
• Healthy discipleship includes both wings—mission and community—so that the church can thrive.
• Identifying Leaders Means Looking Beyond Hurts
• Every believer has past struggles, but those experiences shape them for ministry.
• God comforts us so that we can comfort others (2 Corinthians 1).
• Maturity isn’t just about healing—it’s about stepping into purpose.
• Equipping Leaders Requires Intentional Coaching
• Leadership development isn’t just about knowledge—it includes relational and hands-on training.
• Jesus modeled a process of discipleship that involved mentoring, equipping, and sending people out in pairs.
• Equipping includes both learning and doing; people must be allowed to "play" in ministry.
• Releasing Leaders Doesn’t Mean Abandoning Them
• Leaders are sent out with support, not left to figure things out alone.
• Paul continued mentoring Timothy even after sending him out.
• Healthy leadership development includes both freedom and accountability.
• Spiritual Maturity Includes Understanding the Need for Others
• No one outgrows the need for community.
• Pride leads to isolation, which is a tactic of the enemy.
• The biblical model for ministry is interdependence, not independence.
• Healthy Leadership Development Avoids Burnout and Control Issues
• Leaders who do everything themselves will miss opportunities to identify and equip others.
• Micromanaging stifles growth, while abandonment leaves people unprepared.
• Effective leaders create co-laborers, not just followers.
• Releasing Leaders in the Right Way Ensures Longevity
• Leaders are released to serve within relationships, not as isolated individuals.
• Jesus sent out disciples in pairs for both mission and support.
• Small group leadership should always include an apprentice system to ensure continuity and growth.
• The Church Functions Best as a Team
• Just as a body has different parts, leaders should be placed according to their gifts.
• A healthy church recognizes and values diverse callings without forcing everyone into the same mold.
• Leadership structures should encourage collaboration, not competition.

Discussion Questions

• How can you ensure that both mission and community are priorities in your discipleship efforts?
• What past experiences has God used to prepare you for ministry?
• Are you equipping others, or are you trying to do too much on your own?
• Who in your church or group might have leadership potential that needs to be developed?
• How can you create a culture of both releasing and supporting leaders?
• In what ways do you see the need for interdependence in ministry?

Action Steps

• Take time to identify potential leaders within your group or ministry.
• Be intentional about both equipping and supporting those stepping into leadership.
• Evaluate whether your discipleship efforts balance both mission and community.
• If you’re in leadership, ensure that you’re not micromanaging or leaving people without guidance.
• Seek mentorship and accountability for yourself, recognizing that no one leads alone.
• Encourage those around you to step into their God-given roles within the body of Christ.

Closing Encouragement

Raising up leaders is not about filling positions—it’s about equipping the body of Christ to function as God designed. When we invest in people, we build a church that thrives in both mission and community. Leadership isn’t about independence; it’s about interdependence. As you walk in your calling, remember that you are not meant to do it alone. Invest in others, release them with support, and watch how God builds His kingdom through a team that works together.

Scripture References

• 2 Corinthians 1:3-4
• Ephesians 4:11-12
• Ecclesiastes 4:9-12
• Matthew 28:19-20
• 1 Corinthians 12:12-27
• Acts 2:42-47
• John 13:35

Looking forward to next time as we discuss Functioning as a Team!

Podcast Show Notes: Shepherding and Chasing the Strays

Opening Paragraph: In this episode of Church as a Team Sport, Lance Wigdon and Jim Putman discuss the essential practice of "chasing the strays" within church communities. Drawing from biblical principles, personal experiences, and lessons from small churches, they emphasize the importance of shepherding as a shared responsibility. This episode unpacks how chasing after those who have disconnected from the church is not just a task for pastors, but a mission for the entire church body. By focusing on building relational connections throughout the week, leaders can create a shepherding culture that fosters long-term spiritual growth and strengthens the church.

Key Points:

1. Shepherding is the foundation of ministry: Jim highlights the biblical mandate for leaders to pursue and care for their flock, referencing Ezekiel 34 and John 10. The focus is not just on those present but on those who are missing, disconnected, or struggling.
2. Ministry happens between weekends: While the weekend service is important, it should serve as a touchpoint for the deeper ministry that happens during the week. True growth happens in relational ministry that equips people to serve and connect beyond Sunday mornings.
3. Building a shepherding culture: The role of a church leader is not to carry all the burden of shepherding, but to equip the church community to take on this responsibility. When everyone is involved, the church becomes a living community where people are known, pursued, and cared for.
4. The danger of isolation: Jim and Lance stress that when people drift away from the church, it often leads to deeper relational and spiritual problems. The sooner leaders and members can reach out and reconnect with these individuals, the easier it is to prevent long-term issues from escalating.
5. Challenges of post-2020 church life: COVID-19 created divisions and led to a decline in in-person attendance. Many became isolated, settling for shallow online connections. However, churches that invested in relational ministry thrived, reinforcing the need for real, personal connections within the body of Christ.

Discussion Questions:

1. How does your church currently keep track of members who may be drifting or disconnected? What systems can you put in place to better pursue those who are missing?
2. How can your small group or leadership team create a more relational, shepherding culture within your church community?
3. How does the idea that 90% of ministry happens between weekends challenge your current view of church involvement?
4. What are some practical ways you can encourage your congregation to be more intentional about building relationships throughout the week?

Actionable Next Steps:

• Develop a team approach: Equip your small group leaders, elders, and ministry team members to take ownership of shepherding and reaching out to people who are disconnected or missing.
• Track attendance and follow up: Implement simple attendance tracking or connection systems so that it’s easy to see who might be slipping away and to follow up with them in a loving and personal way.
• Focus on relationship-building throughout the week: Encourage your church community to be intentional about checking in with each other, offering help, and pursuing those who have been absent.

This episode reminds us that church is not just a weekend event; it’s a community that thrives on relationships. By prioritizing shepherding and pursuing those who have drifted away, we can create stronger, more connected churches. As leaders, let’s be intentional about making disciples who are not only cared for but are equipped to care for others. Join us next time for more insights on building a healthy, thriving church community!

Welcome back to Church is a Team Sport. In this episode, host Lance Wigdon sits down with Jim Putman, senior pastor and author of Church is a Team Sport, to discuss a crucial part of church growth and discipleship: "Connect the Unconnected." This conversation delves into the heart of discipleship and the importance of relational connection within the church community. Jim shares practical insights into how true discipleship goes beyond Sunday services, emphasizing the need for believers to not only accept Christ but to grow in a spiritual family, become disciple-makers, and thrive in purposeful relationships.

Key Points:

The Challenge of Pastoral Discipleship Alone:

Many churches operate with a model where the pastor carries the majority of the responsibility for discipleship. This approach often leaves church members thinking their role is merely to bring people to church rather than actively discipling others themselves.

This can lead to a model where discipleship becomes more about preaching information rather than walking alongside others in their spiritual journey.

A Shift Toward Relational Discipleship:

Jim emphasizes the need for church members to move beyond just attending church. He highlights the importance of them being equipped to share their faith and actively engage in making disciples.

True discipleship is relational, meaning that new believers need to be connected into a spiritual family where they can grow in their faith and learn to disciple others.

The Role of Connection in Discipleship:

The process of discipleship involves helping people not only understand the doctrines of the faith but also how to live them out in everyday life.

Connection in discipleship is vital because it provides a space where people can ask real-life questions, share struggles, and see practical demonstrations of faith in action. This aligns with Jesus' model of discipling the twelve and then empowering them to disciple others.

Small Groups as the Environment for Growth:

Jim discusses how small groups, or relational groups, are essential for fostering deep connections. These groups create the environment where believers can grow in maturity and become equipped to disciple others.

He emphasizes that if small groups grow too large without multiplying, the depth of connection can suffer, highlighting the need for intentionality in cultivating smaller groups where personal growth and discipleship can flourish.

Challenges in Building Connected Communities:

Jim addresses common obstacles such as fear of vulnerability, a focus on personal comfort over mission, and the struggle to maintain healthy relationships in a group setting.

He shares how critical it is for leaders to model authenticity and cultivate an environment where group members can support each other through life’s challenges, emphasizing that discipleship is more than a program—it’s a lifestyle.

Discussion Questions:

How does your church currently approach discipleship, and what role do members play in making disciples?

What steps can you take to foster a more relational environment within your small group or church community?

Reflect on a time when a relational connection helped you grow in your faith. How did that impact your spiritual journey?

What are some practical ways to encourage intentional discipleship within your church or small group?

In what areas do you need to be more intentional about connecting others in your spiritual circles?

Actionable Next Steps:

Evaluate the discipleship culture in your church: Are members being equipped to disciple others, or is the burden solely on the pastoral staff?

If you are a leader, consider how you can create more opportunities for relational connection in your church, such as small group discussions or one-on-one mentorship.

Reflect on your own spiritual relationships—are you being discipled, and are you actively discipling others?

Visit jimputman.com for additional resources on discipleship and tools to help grow in your role as a disciple-maker.

Closing: Discipleship is more than just imparting knowledge; it’s about building relationships where believers learn to live out their faith together. As Jim Putnam reminds us, true growth happens when we create environments where people can connect deeply with God and each other. Join us next time as we continue exploring the Seven Essentials for a healthy church and how to apply these principles in your own ministry context.

Show Notes: Church is a Team Sport Podcast with Jim Putman

Episode #9: Breaking the Perfection Myth & Reaching the Lost (Essential #2)

In this episode of Church as a Team Sport, Jim Putman and Lance Wigton tackle the myth that Christians must appear "perfect" and have it all together. They discuss how the fear of judgment leads many believers to hide their struggles, resulting in a church culture where vulnerability is rare, and discipleship suffers. Jim shares stories of how Real Life Ministries emphasizes authenticity, accountability, and the importance of community in growing spiritually.

The conversation also focuses on Essential #2: Reaching the Lost. Jim explains that effective disciple-making begins with abiding in Christ and caring about what Christ cares about—people. He outlines how Real Life Ministries has created a culture where reaching others for Christ is woven into everyday life. Jim and Lance share stories of how ordinary believers are empowered to share the gospel in their workplaces and social circles, emphasizing the importance of discipleship that equips others to witness and serve. They also discuss how large, church-wide efforts like baptism celebrations and corporate outreach programs work hand-in-hand with life-on-life ministry.

Key Points Discussed:

1. The Perfection Myth in Church Culture:

- Many Christians feel pressured to appear perfect, which stifles vulnerability and authentic relationships.

- Hypocrisy isn’t about failing but about pretending you don’t fail. The early church leaders, including Paul and Peter, openly admitted their struggles.

- Being open about challenges, like going to a counselor or sharing personal frustrations, can foster deeper relationships and spiritual growth.

2. Reaching the Lost:

- Abiding in Christ leads to a natural heart for the lost because it aligns believers with what Jesus cares about.

- Real discipleship includes teaching people to minister in their workplaces, homes, and communities. 

- The role of the church is not just to gather on Sundays but to empower every believer to see themselves as missionaries in their day-to-day lives.

3. Empowering Everyday Believers:

- Jim stresses the importance of believers stepping into their roles as ministers of the gospel. Rather than relying on pastors to evangelize, every Christian is called to share their faith.

- Discipleship involves not just gathering people but sending them out, equipped to serve others where they live, work, and play.

4. Corporate and Personal Outreach:

- Alongside individual evangelism, Real Life Ministries also engages in corporate outreach efforts, such as sports programs and recovery ministries, that allow the church body to reach people as a collective.

5. Baptism and Directed Prayer:

- Baptisms are celebrated in service, focusing not just on the act of baptism but also the process of discipleship that leads people to that decision.

- Directed prayers during services help focus the congregation on reaching the lost and connecting with their mission to share Christ.

Discussion Questions:

1. Why do you think Christians feel pressured to appear "perfect"? How can we create a culture in our churches where people feel safe to share their struggles?

2. Jim talked about abiding in Christ leading to a heart for the lost. How can you cultivate a deeper connection to Christ in your daily life that moves you toward outreach?

3. What are some ways you can witness to people in your immediate environment (workplace, neighborhood, etc.)? How can you train yourself and others to share the gospel in practical, everyday situations?

4. How can your small groups become more mission-focused? What steps can they take to begin reaching out to those who are unconnected?

Actionable Next Steps:

- Evaluate your vulnerability: Start by sharing one area of personal struggle with a trusted group or individual this week. Encourage others to do the same and create an environment of openness.

- Start praying for the lost: Identify two or three people in your life who don’t know Jesus. Commit to praying for them regularly, asking God for opportunities to share your faith.

- Engage in outreach: Look for ways your small group can serve together—whether through a community service project, prayer walks in your neighborhood, or caring for someone in need.

For more resources and materials on discipleship, visit JimPutman.com or Realliferesources.org 

Next Episode Preview:

Join us next time as we discuss Essential #3: Connecting the Unconnected and explore practical ways to help people find authentic community in the church. Don’t miss it!

In this episode of "Church is a Team Sport," hosts Lance Wigton and Jim Putman delve into the critical importance of abiding in Christ for Pastors and Church leaders. They explore how abiding in Christ goes beyond mere Bible study or sermon preparation, transforming into a deep, relational experience that shapes identity and spiritual growth. Jim emphasizes that true leadership in the church requires leaders to live out what they preach, fostering a culture of authenticity, accountability, and relational discipleship.

Some of their key talking points are:

1. Abiding in Christ:

• Abiding in Christ is not just about reading the Bible or preparing sermons; it's about developing a personal, transformative relationship with God.
• Jim shares personal struggles with maintaining this perspective, where church leadership can often become task-oriented rather than relational.
• The importance of rooting identity in being a child of God, rather than in roles or titles, such as pastor or leader.

2. Church Leadership and Identity:

• The danger of finding identity in the size or success of a church rather than in Christ.
• Jim's journey from identifying as a wrestler to a pastor, to ultimately embracing his true identity as a "child of the Most High God."

3. Sports Analogies in Church Leadership:

• Jim discusses how principles from sports—such as team unity, shared vision, and coaching—can be applied to church leadership and structure.
• The church as a team, where pastors act as coaches to equip and release their congregation to fulfill their roles in ministry.

4. The Seven Essentials of Church Leadership:

1. Abide in Christ: The foundation of all ministry work.
2. Reach the Lost: Sharing the gospel and making disciples.
3. Connect the Unconnected: Ensuring new believers are integrated into the church community.
4. Chase the Strays: Actively pursuing those who have disconnected from the church.
5. Shepherd Towards Maturity: Guiding believers toward spiritual maturity.
6. Identify, Train, and Release Leaders: Developing and empowering leaders within the church.
7. Maintain Unity: Keeping the church body united in vision and purpose.

5. Practical Implementation:

• Real-life examples of how Jim and his team hold themselves and each other accountable to abide in Christ.
• The role of spiritual disciplines such as prayer, personal Bible study, and communal accountability in maintaining a healthy spiritual life.
• The importance of leaders being open about their struggles and allowing others to hold them accountable.

Reflective Questions:

• How do you currently abide in Christ beyond your regular church activities?
• In what ways do you find your identity in your role rather than in Christ? How can you shift this focus?
• How can your church leadership team implement principles from sports, such as team unity and coaching, to strengthen your congregation?

To watch all episodes of this podcast go to: https://realliferesources.org/church-is-a-team-sport/

Contact Information: If you have questions or need further resources, please reach out to us at [email protected].

"We've got a system, in the church in America, that does not produce disciples that make disciples - which means our systems do not produce what we say we value."

In this episode of Church is a Team Sport, Lance Wigton and Jim Putman discuss the value of Small Groups, and how they are vital to the growth of discipleship in your church. Join us as we unveil the blueprint for turning small groups into the backbone of a championship-winning team.

Small groups play a crucial role in building a championship team by providing a space for coaching and discipleship that goes beyond mere knowledge acquisition. In these settings, members develop relational skill sets and practice living out the fruit of the Spirit in real-time situations. The transition from large group settings to small groups and then to individual lives fosters progression and maturity.

More shepherding occurs, involving not just the lead pastor but also volunteers rather than hired staff.

Small groups serve as a platform to raise up and identify leaders.

They act as a "watering hole," offering a deeper understanding of the members and their needs.

In summary, small groups are essential for building a championship team because they facilitate the practical application of relational and spiritual growth. This environment nurtures leadership, enhances community understanding, and supports the overall progression from group settings to individual life. Through small groups, teams can develop the cohesion and maturity needed to achieve championship-level success.