Multiplying Disciples in Groups (Not Just One-on-One)

Plant the Gospel

Mar 12

Episode Summary

In this episode, Corey and Brian dive into another key paradigm shift for disciple-making movements: multiplying disciples in groups rather than focusing solely on one-on-one discipleship.

Key Takeaways

1. Where Did One-on-One Disciple-Making Come From?

Likely a well-intended push to move beyond Sunday sermons and encourage relational disciple-making.
Influenced by Western individualism—we tend to think about faith in personal, isolated terms rather than communal ones.
Based on mentorship models, but often creates a hierarchy where one person is the "expert" and the other is the learner.
The biblical model emphasizes groups, not just individuals—Jesus discipled in groups (3, 12, 72) and movements spread through communities.

💬 "Mentorship is good, but the primary model for disciple-making in the Bible is groups, not one-on-one meetings."

2. Why This Shift Matters for Movement

Faster Multiplication – One-on-one discipleship moves slowly. Groups allow disciples to multiply at an exponential rate.
Obedience-Based Learning – In groups, people see others obeying Jesus, which encourages participation and accountability.
Less Pressure on One Person – In a group, disciple-making isn’t dependent on a single expert. The Spirit speaks through everyone.
More Perspectives – Group discussions bring deeper insights, especially in Discovery Bible Study settings.
Models Community from Day One – Instead of trying to create "spiritual family" later, discipleship happens in family from the beginning.

💬 "If we plant the gospel in a group, we’re not just discipling an individual—we're starting a movement."

3. Why This is Even More Important in the West

Hyper-Individualism – Western culture is built on independence, which makes movement harder because relationships are often disconnected.
Weak Natural Networks – Many don’t have strong relational webs (familial, tribal, communal), so groups must be intentionally created.
Consumer Mindset in Church – People are used to experts doing the work, not everyone participating.

The Solution?

Be a catalyst for connection. Get people together, create safe spaces for relationships to form.
Use natural access points. Sports, hobbies, meals, neighborhood events—find ways to gather people.
Leverage Person of Peace. Some people naturally connect others. Find them and disciple in their network.

💬 "In a tribal culture, people disciple naturally in groups. In the West, we have to work hard to create those spaces."

4. Practical Tips for Making the Shift

Think Groups from the Start – Instead of asking "Who can I disciple?" ask "Who are 2-3 people I can disciple together?"
Be a Relational Catalyst – Use meals, casual hangouts, or shared activities to form groups.
Facilitate, Don't Teach – In groups, your role is to guide discovery, not lecture.
Start Small, But Think Multiplication – Even a group of 3 can grow into something that spreads.
Find the Right People to Lead With You – If you’re not a natural connector, disciple with someone who is.

💬 "If you're an introvert, don't force yourself to be the glue. Find someone who is and disciple together."

Stories of This Shift in Action

Neighborhood Transformation Through Relationship – A woman became a relational glue for her neighbors, naturally forming a spiritual community.
Progressive Dinner as a Missional Strategy – A family used a social event to create relational overlap, leading to deeper gospel conversations.
Discovery Bible Studies That Multiply – People who start with one-on-one DBS often struggle to multiply. Those who start with groups see it spread faster.

💬 "We need to be people who get people together."