Rwandan Disciple-making Movement
Episode Summary
In this episode, Cory and Brian sit down with their friend Justin from Rwanda to hear the powerful story of a disciple-making movement in East Africa. From the trauma of the 1994 genocide to the multiplication of thousands of disciples and churches across Rwanda, Justin shares how a shift from traditional church structures to a spirit-led, grassroots movement is transforming lives. He walks through the “second conversion” from pastor to disciple-maker, the central role of extraordinary prayer, and the seven simple elements fueling gospel saturation in his context.
Key Themes & Takeaways
1. Second Conversion and the Shift to Movement
Justin shares how he went from traditional bishop to disciple-maker after realizing that many were Christians in name only.
A key shift came from reading a book that challenged him to rethink church and refocus on obedience to the Great Commission.
2. Prayer as the Engine of Movement
Desperate, extraordinary prayer—including prayer walks, all-night prayer, and praying for persons of peace—was the catalyst for change.
His wife helped mobilize and disciple women and children in prayer, embedding it as a lifestyle in their community.
3. The Seven Critical Elements
Simplified from a 21-element DMM framework, the team developed 7 hand-sign motions to teach and embody:
Pray and go.
Find a person of peace.
Make disciples through Discovery Bible Study.
Baptize obedient believers.
Send them to share testimony.
Gather as house churches.
Train leaders on-the-job.
4. Multiplication Across Rwanda and Beyond
Over 21,600 people baptized, 1,800+ churches planted, and over 900 DBS groups.
The movement now covers all 30 districts in Rwanda and is sending African missionaries to places like South Sudan.
5. Addressing Common Western Concerns
Kids? Fully integrated through story memorization, songs, and drama.
Money? No offering buckets—support is need-based and collective.
Heresy? Minimized through DBS, sound doctrine teaching, and accountability to Scripture alone.
6. Leadership Development & Cross-Pollination
Movement thrives on grassroots leadership, quarterly and regional trainings, and ongoing cross-cultural learning across East Africa.
Final Thoughts
This episode is a powerful reminder that disciple-making movements thrive when everyday people are empowered by the Holy Spirit, rooted in prayer, and obedient to Scripture. Justin’s story challenges us to let go of control, embrace simplicity, and trust that God moves through the humble and ordinary to bring extraordinary transformation.
