How do we model a faith that feels like delight, not duty?

In this episode of Group Answers, Brian Daniel sits down with Jani Ortlund to explore the heart of discipleship in both the family and the local church. With decades of wisdom as an author, mentor, and leader with Renewal Ministries, Jani shares what it truly looks like to put the beauty of Jesus on display, especially for the next generation.

Jani unpacks the power of discipleship that happens organically in homes, small groups, and everyday life, reminding leaders that our posture often speaks louder than our words. From parenting to mentoring young women, she emphasizes cultivating environments where joy, hope, and patience shape spiritual growth.

This rich, hope-filled conversation encourages leaders to slow down, embody the character of Christ, and invest intentionally in those God has entrusted to them. Whether you're discipling kids, leading a small group, or mentoring new believers, Jani’s insights will both ground and inspire you.

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SHOW LINKS:

Renewal Ministries

To the Tenth Generation

CLICK HERE to read the report from Lifeway Research about the state of groups.

How can churches create a discipleship strategy that balances worship, study, and service?

In this episode of Group Answers, Brian Daniel sits down with Austin Gentry, Discipleship Pastor at Second Baptist Houston, to explore the church’s innovative approach to discipleship called the “one plus one plus one” strategy: one hour of worship, one hour of Bible study, and one hour of service. Austin shares how this intentional structure fosters relationships, spiritual growth, and engagement in both programmatic and personal discipleship.

Listeners will gain insight into:

• The “one plus one plus one” strategy for holistic discipleship
• The role of relationships and mentorship in spiritual growth
• How curriculum supports ministry and facilitates learning
• Strategies for leadership multiplication and community engagement
• Using analytics to track participation and measure impact

Austin emphasizes the importance of integrating structured programming with relational ministry to help church members grow in faith, serve others, and lead within their communities. This episode is a must-listen for small group leaders, church leaders, and discipleship coordinators seeking practical ideas for intentional, measurable ministry.

We’d love to hear from you!
If this episode encouraged or inspired you, share it with a ministry colleague or small group leader. And please leave a rating and review on your favorite podcast platform—it helps more leaders discover Group Answers and gain insights on effective, relational discipleship strategies.

SHOW LINKS:

CLICK HERE to read the report from Lifeway Research about the state of groups.

How can biblical theology transform your understanding of Scripture and deepen your discipleship?

In this episode of Group Answers, Brian Daniel sits down with Caroline Saunders to explore the Story and Soul Retreat, a transformative experience designed to nurture spiritual growth and theological understanding. Caroline shares her personal journey into biblical theology and discusses its power to help believers see the Bible as one cohesive story, rather than disconnected passages.

Listeners will gain insight into:

• The foundations and importance of biblical theology in discipleship
• How biblical theology helps navigate deconstruction and doubt
• The role of biblical theology in deepening spiritual growth and engagement
• The importance of belonging in the family of God
• Caroline’s upcoming projects and initiatives to foster community and spiritual formation

This episode is ideal for small group leaders, church leaders, and anyone looking to engage Scripture more deeply while cultivating authentic discipleship and a sense of belonging in their faith community.

We’d love to hear from you!
If this episode encouraged or challenged you, share it with another leader, teacher, or friend. And please leave a rating and review on your favorite podcast platform—it helps more listeners discover Group Answers and join the conversation about biblical theology, discipleship, and spiritual growth.

SHOW LINKS:

CLICK HERE to read the report from Lifeway Research about the state of groups.

How do we disciple a generation shaped by technology, individualism, and global perspectives?

In this episode of Group Answers, Brian Daniel sits down with Dr. Allen Yeh to explore the unique challenges and opportunities of leading Gen Z. Dr. Ye shares insights on how technology, parenting, and cultural shifts influence this generation, and how leaders can adapt discipleship and ministry strategies to meet them where they are.

Listeners will gain insight into:

• The impact of technology and social media on Gen Z development
• Balancing grace and grit in leadership for younger generations
• How majority world theologies can inform and enrich Western church practices
• The effects of individualism on discipleship and community engagement
• The importance of reciprocal relationships in global Christian ministry
• Cultivating a theology and leadership style that adapts to changing cultural contexts

This episode is a must-listen for youth pastors, small group leaders, and church leaders navigating ministry with Gen Z, offering practical insights for creating meaningful engagement, discipleship, and leadership in today’s fast-paced world.

We’d love to hear from you!
If this episode challenged or encouraged you, share it with a colleague, youth leader, or ministry team member. And don’t forget to leave a rating and review on your favorite podcast platform—it helps other leaders discover Group Answers and engage with discussions about ministry, discipleship, and leading the next generation.

SHOW LINKS: 

Grit: The Power of Passion and Perseverance 

CLICK HERE to read the report from Lifeway Research about the state of groups.

How does your own emotional health shape the way you lead?

In this episode of Group Answers, Brian Daniel sits down with Nicole Zasowski, LifeWay author and practicing counselor, to explore the vital connection between self-awareness, trauma, and leadership. Nicole shares insights on how leaders’ personal pain, emotional responses, and healing journey directly influence the groups and teams they lead.

Listeners will discover:

• The importance of self-awareness for effective leadership
• How group dynamics are impacted by leaders’ emotional health
• Evolving perspectives on trauma and leadership
• Why joy is a practice, not a reward
• How leaders can take responsibility for their own healing to better serve others

This conversation is a must-listen for small group leaders, ministry directors, and anyone leading others in a church context. Nicole provides practical guidance for cultivating resilience, emotional intelligence, and authentic joy while navigating the challenges of leadership.

We’d love to hear from you!
If this episode inspired you, share it with another leader or ministry team member. And don’t forget to leave a rating and review on your favorite podcast platform—it helps more leaders discover Group Answers and engage with conversations about healthier, more effective leadership.

SHOW LINKS: 

Daring Joy

CLICK HERE to read the report from Lifeway Research about the state of groups.

Is church membership still relevant in today’s individualistic culture?

In this episode of Group Answers, Brian Daniel sits down with Matt Capps and Josh Wredberg to explore the critical role of church membership in fostering authentic community, discipleship, and engagement within the local church.

As churches navigate a culture marked by consumerism and individualism, Matt and Josh highlight why membership is not just a formal commitment, it’s an invitation to participate fully in the life and mission of the church. They also examine how small groups, relational discipleship, and intentional community are key to helping members grow in faith and contribute meaningfully to the church body.

If this episode inspired you or gave you practical ideas for your church, share it with a ministry leader or small group leader. And please leave a rating and review on your favorite podcast platform, it helps others discover Group Answers and join the conversation on building healthy, engaged church communities.

SHOW LINKS:

Every Member Matters

CLICK HERE to read the report from Lifeway Research about the state of groups.

What does it really mean to be a man in today’s culture?

In this episode of Group Answers, Brian Daniel sits down with John Simons, author of The Man You’re Meant to Be, to explore masculinity, discipleship, and practical strategies for men’s ministry. Drawing from his book and years of ministry experience, John shares insights on the challenges men face, the importance of identity in Christ, and the role community plays in shaping authentic masculinity.

Listeners will gain insight into:

• Self-examination for men and the value of honest reflection
• Identity in Christ as the foundation for spiritual growth
• The role of community and outsiders in shaping masculine character
• Balancing behavioral change with spiritual formation
• Practical steps for building a vibrant men’s ministry
• Embracing a quiet, intentional life as a disciple

John emphasizes a holistic approach to men’s discipleship, one that integrates Scripture, character formation, and relational accountability, helping men grow into the leaders, husbands, and fathers God intended them to be.

We’d love to hear from you! If this episode encouraged or inspired you, share it with another ministry leader or men’s group. And don’t forget to leave a rating and review on your favorite podcast platform, it helps more leaders discover Group Answers and join the conversation about authentic discipleship for men.

SHOW LINKS: 

The Man You're Meant To Be

CLICK HERE to read the report from Lifeway Research about the state of groups.

How do we lead small groups that embrace real life—the joys, the struggles, and everything in between?

In this episode of The Group Answers Show, Brian Daniel sits down with Christine Hoover, author of the new Bible study More Than Enough, centered on 2 Corinthians. Christine opens up about her journey writing this study while navigating personal trials, including her son’s cancer diagnosis, and shares how those experiences shaped both the content and heart behind her work.

Listeners will gain insight into:

• The power of vulnerability in group discussions and leadership
• How the Holy Spirit guides writing and teaching for authentic ministry
• Creating safe spaces in small groups where participants can share honestly
• The connection between suffering and comfort in Scripture and life
• Practical wisdom for the future of women’s ministry

Christine’s reflections remind small group leaders that leading with authenticity and compassion transforms not only the study experience but also the hearts of those in their groups.

We’d love to hear from you! If this episode encouraged or inspired you, share it with another group leader or ministry team member. And don’t forget to leave a rating and review on your favorite podcast platform—it helps other leaders discover The Group Answers Show and join the conversation about authentic, life-changing discipleship.

SHOW LINKS: 

More Than Enough 

Connect with Christine Hoover

CLICK HERE to read the report from Lifeway Research about the state of groups.

What does it take to make disciples in a world shaped by therapy culture, shifting values, and cultural Christianity?

In this episode of Group Answers Show, host Brian Daniel welcomes back Pastor Dean Inserra from City Church in Tallahassee, Florida, for a timely and thought-provoking conversation on the evolving landscape of discipleship and evangelism in today’s church.

Dean shares powerful insights on:

• Current trends in evangelicalism and how they’re reshaping church life
• Contextualizing discipleship strategies to reach diverse and progressive communities
• The critical role of Scripture in forming true disciples, not just church attendees
• Ministering in a therapeutic culture—where emotional wellness and spiritual truth must meet
• How to integrate discipleship with evangelism for deeper community engagement
• Identifying new mission fields among those who align politically with Christianity but lack a personal walk with Jesus

Dean emphasizes that true discipleship is relational, rooted in Scripture, and responsive to the real-life challenges of those we serve. He also offers encouragement for small group leaders navigating this complex cultural moment—reminding us that faithful ministry begins with clarity, compassion, and connection.

Whether you’re leading a small group, shaping church strategy, or seeking to grow in your own walk with Christ, this episode will give you practical tools and renewed vision for making disciples who make disciples.

We’d love to hear from you!
If this episode encouraged or challenged you, share it with another group leader or pastor in your circle. And if you haven’t yet, please leave a rating and review on your favorite podcast platform—it helps more leaders like you discover Group Answers Show and join the conversation.

Show Links: 

The Unsaved Christian

CLICK HERE to read the report from Lifeway Research about the state of groups.

In a rapidly changing world, discipleship cannot remain static. The ways people gather, connect, and grow in faith have shifted dramatically, especially in the wake of the pandemic. For church leaders and group facilitators, this season has brought both new challenges and fresh opportunities to shepherd believers more intentionally.

In this episode, Brian Daniel welcomes Scott McConnell, Executive Director of Lifeway Research, for an insightful conversation on the state of group ministry in today’s church. Scott unpacks the impact of the pandemic on congregational life, the evolving landscape of adult discipleship, and the trends shaping how believers engage with small groups. Together, they explore the growth of non-denominational churches, the decreasing trust in traditional institutions, and what this means for church leaders seeking to build authentic, lasting community.

The discussion also emphasizes the critical role of communication and vision casting in helping church members understand the “why” behind groups, while underscoring the long-term commitment needed for effective discipleship. Listeners will come away with both a deeper awareness of the cultural shifts affecting the church and practical insights for leading with clarity, intentionality, and hope.

SHOW LINKS: 

Lifeway Research 

CLICK HERE to read the report from Lifeway Research about the state of groups.