Equipping Disciple-makers: The Hub Team

Nov 11

Episode Summary

In this episode, Peter “Pheaney” Lindell from the On The Road podcast sits down with Cory and Brian from KC Underground to explore the concept of "hubs" in disciple-making movements. We discuss the importance of creating local networks that equip everyday people to become disciple makers in their networks of relationships. The conversation dives into the balance between organic growth and structured support, sharing insights on how to foster a movement that thrives both locally and citywide.

Key Themes & Takeaways

1. Why Hubs Exist

A hub is a catalytic team that exists to equip, coach, and convene a network of disciple makers.
Each hub is rooted either geographically (neighborhoods) or affinity-based (shared space like schools or prisons).
The goal: create local ecosystems where everyday people are supported to make disciples and form microchurches.

2. The Tension: Organized vs. Organic

Movement leaders often fear structure—but without it, the “fruit rots on the ground.”
As Brian says, “Don’t build what you don’t need.” The trellis (structure) supports growth only when the fruit begins to appear.
Healthy hubs learn to ride the tension—balancing spontaneity and sustainability.

3. Why the Western Church Needs This

In the West, individualism and isolation are massive barriers to multiplication.
Many believers lack a sense of tribal identity or belonging.
Hubs offer a spiritual family—a middle space between total independence and institutional hierarchy—where disciple makers can flourish together.

4. How Hubs Form and Multiply

Five stages of hub emergence:

Catalytic Team — a few leaders committed to multiplication and prayer.
Engage the Harvest — live incarnationally in real contexts.
Mobilize Disciple Makers — raise up others who carry the same DNA.
Recognize the Need for Support — as fruit appears, build simple structures.
Form the Hub — define rhythms, practices, and leadership built around equip, coach, and convene.

5. Hyperlocal and Citywide Vision

Movements must think citywide, but disciple makers live hyperlocal.
Apostolic leaders hold the “big picture,” while everyday people live it out in schools, neighborhoods, and networks.
“Don’t expect everyone to think like a citywide catalyst—most people aren’t wired that way.”

6. The Hub’s Core Practices: Equip, Coach, Convene

Equip: train disciple makers in simple, reproducible tools.
Coach: walk alongside them as they live it out.
Convene: create rhythms of story-sharing, prayer, lament, and celebration.

7. A Picture from Acts 11

Just like the early church in Antioch, organic disciple-making required structure when God began multiplying.
Hubs mirror that same dynamic—a simple, Spirit-led trellis that supports organic growth.

Final Thoughts

Movements don’t grow by accident. They flourish when ordinary people are equipped, coached, and connected in simple, Spirit-led communities. Hubs provide the backbone for this—offering support without control, structure without stifling life. As Brian says, “Don’t be afraid to build something—but only when you need it.”