Run With Horses

Addressing The Pastor Shortage

rwh04oct Ep.384 – Run With Horses Podcast – Equipping or Educating?Podcast: rwh.podbean.comWebsite: www.runwithhorses.netYoutube: https://youtube.com/@rwhpodcastFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/RWHpodcastInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/rwh_podcastTwitter: https://twitter.com/RWH_podcastAuthor pages with links to all books on Amazon.https://www.amazon.com/stores/author/B0BCSDDVLB – James Norman Smithhttps://www.amazon.com/stores/author/B0BMGW51FW – Susan Jane
The Probelm• Median age of U.S. Christians has risen (median Christian age ~54), which corresponds with an older pastoral workforce. • Surveys show large shares of pastors have seriously considered quitting in recent years (Barna reported ~33–40% had considered quitting in the early 2020s). Covid had a huge impact and pointed out some problems.• Research finds only a small percent (about ~1% per year) actually permanently leave pastoral ministry for reasons other than retirement, but the pipeline into pastoral roles is thin and many serve bivocationally. (Lifeway and other research summarize low annual exit rates but continued recruitment shortfalls.) • Many groups lose members (reported membership declines in recent annual reports), which affects church budgets and pastoral hiring. 
 

Are we Equipping or only Teaching?

rwh27sept Ep.383 – Run With Horses Podcast – Equipping or Educating?Podcast: rwh.podbean.comWebsite: www.runwithhorses.netYoutube: https://youtube.com/@rwhpodcastFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/RWHpodcastInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/rwh_podcastTwitter: https://twitter.com/RWH_podcastAuthor pages with links to all books on Amazon.https://www.amazon.com/stores/author/B0BCSDDVLB – James Norman Smithhttps://www.amazon.com/stores/author/B0BMGW51FW – Susan Jane Smith
(24:00)Our churches are great at teaching Biblical truth. But sometimes I wonder if we do as well at equipping people for the work of teh ministry. That’s topic of today’s show!
Welcome to Run With Horses! My name is Norman and my goal is to help you thrive as a follower of Jesus. The spiritual life is simple in many ways, but potentially the most difficult part of your life. God invites you to grow, to live intentionally and to join in His mission. It’s very cool that we can do that together!Thank you for joining me today! “If you’re new here, you can check out past episodes at runwithhorses.net. As always, I appreciate your feedback, questions, and reviews!”
*(23:00 – 0:00) * PART 1Run With Horses is on the radio! If you are enjoying Run With Horses, would you let someone know? Contact the radio station or leave a review on your favorite app. We want to hear from you!
Teaching and Equipping
I. Introduction• Many churches excel at teaching but struggle with equipping. The result is knowledge without action, or action without foundation.• How do teaching and equipping differ, and how should they work together in the life of the church?
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II. Defining the Terms
A. Teaching• Imparting knowledge, doctrine, and biblical truth.• Scripture:
B. Equipping• Preparing believers with tools, skills, and confidence to serve and live out their faith.
VI. The Role of Leaders and Members
A. Leaders’ Responsibility• To both teach and equip.• 1 Timothy 4:11–12 – “These things command and teach. Let no one despise your youth, but be an example to the believers in word, in conduct, in love, in spirit, in faith, in purity.”
B. Members’ Responsibility• To move from being hearers to active participants in ministry.• Hebrews 10:24–25 – “And let us consider one another in order to stir up love and good works, not forsaking the assembling of ourselves together, as is the manner of some, but exhorting one another, and so much the more as you see the Day approaching.”
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VII. Practical Challenges• Overemphasis on knowledge can create spiritual spectators.• Overemphasis on activity without grounding leads to burnout or error.• Baptist churches must intentionally integrate both for effective discipleship.
⸻Teaching informs; equipping transforms. Teaching fills the mind; equipping activates the hands and heart. Both are necessary for a healthy, missional church.
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Teaching Transfers Information; Equipping Shapes People• Teaching is about what you know. Equipping is about who you become and what you do.• Example: The Pharisees were excellent teachers of the Law, but they failed to equip people to live it (Matthew 23:3).
👉 Knowledge is relatively easy to pass on in a classroom; transformation requires walking with people in real life.
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Equipping Requires Application and Practice• Teaching can stop at hearing; equipping demands doing.• James 1:22 – “But be doers of the word, and not hearers only, deceiving yourselves.”• Equipping means giving people opportunities to serve, make mistakes, and grow — which is harder than just lecturing.
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Equipping Requires Relational Investment• Teaching can happen from a pulpit; equipping usually happens through discipleship, mentoring, and modeling.• 2 Timothy 2:2 – Paul didn’t just teach Timothy; he entrusted him with responsibility to teach others.• This relational work is time-consuming and often messy.
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Equipping Challenges Comfort Zones• Many believers are comfortable learning but hesitant to step into ministry.• Ephesians 4:12 – equipping means pushing saints into the work of ministry.• That’s more difficult than teaching because it involves confronting fear, apathy, or resistance.
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Equipping Takes Patience and Perseverance• Teaching can produce quick results (“I learned a new fact”).• Equipping is long-term, like training an athlete or raising a child.• Hebrews 5:14 – “But solid food belongs to those who are of full age, that is, those who by reason of use have their senses exercised to discern both good and evil.”• Growth through use (practice) is much slower and harder.
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Equipping Requires Empowering, Not Controlling• Teaching can be one-directional: “Here’s what the Bible says.”• Equipping releases people to serve, which means leaders must trust God’s Spirit in them.• John 14:12 – Jesus prepared His disciples to do “greater works” than He did, even though that meant letting go of control.• Many leaders find that harder than teaching.
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Teaching is easier because it focuses on knowledge transfer. Equipping is harder because it demands life-on-life investment, patience, empowerment, and guiding people into action — but it is also what produces real growth, maturity, and multiplication in the church.
(1:00)Are focused more on teaching or equipping? How can you free up some time so you have margin in your life? Disciple making takes time. Equipping takes time. But helping to prepare others for service is always worth the effort!
– “Thank you for listening today!-If you enjoyed the show you can listen to all the past shows wherever you listen to podcasts. A good place to start is at runwithhorses.net. You can also write me at norman@runwithhorses.net or leave a comment on the Run With Horses Podcast facebook page.Don’t be discouraged by the challenges you face. Keep your eyes on Jesus and embrace the opportunity to grow through the trial. Until next time, keep your eyes on Jesus and never stop running."(00:00)
 
 
 

Asking Better Questions - Moving Towards Disciple Making Multiplicationi

rwh20sept Ep.382 – Run With Horses Podcast –  Podcast: rwh.podbean.comWebsite: www.runwithhorses.netYoutube:  https://youtube.com/@rwhpodcastFacebook:  https://www.facebook.com/RWHpodcastInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/rwh_podcastTwitter:  https://twitter.com/RWH_podcastAuthor pages with links to all books on Amazon.https://www.amazon.com/stores/author/B0BCSDDVLB – James Norman Smithhttps://www.amazon.com/stores/author/B0BMGW51FW – Susan Jane Smith
**(24:00)**The questions you ask often determine the kinds of answers you get. How do our questions impact our ability to make disciples, develop leaders and plant new churches? That’s the topic of today’s show!
Welcome to Run With Horses! My name is Norman and my goal is to help you thrive as a follower of Jesus. The spiritual life is simple in many ways, but potentially the most difficult part of your life. God invites you to grow, to live intentionally and to join in His mission. It’s very cool that we can do that together!Thank you for joining me today! “If you’re new here, you can check out past episodes at runwithhorses.net. As always, I appreciate your feedback, questions, and reviews!”
**(23:00 – 0:00)* *  PART 1Run With Horses is on the radio! If you are enjoying Run With Horses, would you let someone know? Contact the radio station or leave a review on your favorite app. We want to hear from you!
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Multiplication Thinking
Part 1: The Power of the Questions We Ask (Vision & Theology)
Theme: Questions reveal what we believe about God’s mission, our role, and the future.** 1. Why Questions Matter ** Questions expose vision (or the lack of it) Show how “addition” questions limit scope vs. “multiplication” questions which expand possibilities. Example: “How many people can I gather?” (Level 2 thinking) vs. “How many disciple-makers can I release?” (Level 4-5 thinking)..The Five Levels of Church Mutiplication1.subtraction 2. Plateau 3.addition 4. Reproducing 5. Multiplication.*** 2. The Five Levels of Leadership (from Hero Maker) *** • Level 1: I count (thinking addition, personal results). • Level 2: I count what I do (improving programs). • Level 3: I count what we do together (team success). • Level 4: I count leaders I raise up (reproduction). • Level 5: I count leaders who multiply leaders (movement/multiplication). • Use examples of how each level asks progressively bigger questions.
*** 3. Biblical and Theological Foundation ***. • Jesus modeled multiplication: He invested in 12 → sent 72 → great commission to all. • Paul’s instruction to Timothy: “Entrust to reliable people who will also be qualified to teach others” (2 Tim. 2:2). • The kingdom grows like a seed — designed for multiplication, not maintenance (parable of the mustard seed, yeast in the dough).
*** 4. Why Maintenance Mindset is Dangerous *** • It keeps leaders in survival mode (protecting what is). • It makes ministries inward-focused rather than kingdom-focused. • Ultimately, it limits generational impact.
***  5. Challenge: *** • What questions are you currently asking in your ministry? • Are they addition questions or multiplication questions? • (Good interactive moment: invite participants to write down their top 2 questions they ask about ministry and assess what “level” they reflect.)
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**(00:00) END PART 1****(27:00 – 5:00) BEGIN PART 2*
Part 2: Asking Multiplication Questions
 Leaders at every level can shift from addition to multiplication by the questions they ask.*** 1. Shifting the Question at Every Level of Leadership***. • Sunday school teacher: Instead of “How many kids will show up?” ask “How many kids can I equip to share their faith?” • Deacon/volunteer leader: Instead of “How do I fill this need?” ask “Who can I invite and empower to step into leadership?” • Pastor: Instead of “How do we grow this church?” ask “How do we plant churches and send leaders?” • Church planter: Instead of “How do I build this church strong?” ask “How do I build this to multiply from the start?”
*** 2. Practical Multiplication Questions to Introduce*** • Who am I discipling right now? • Who could they disciple next? • What leaders am I raising up? • Who in my ministry could replace me if I left tomorrow? • What’s stopping me from giving more away?
*** 3. Tools & Practices to Reinforce Multiplication Thinking*** • Permission-giving: Start saying “You can do this” more often. • Scorecards: Redefine success — not just how many are attending, but how many are multiplying. • Apprenticing model: Always have someone learning beside you.
*** 4. Case Studies / Stories*** • Share short stories of multiplication in action (a teacher who trained kids to lead, a church that planted another church, a small group that reproduced). • Highlight that multiplication is possible at every level, not just at the top.
*** 5. Closing Challenge & Vision Casting*** • Ask participants: “If every leader here multiplied themselves once in the next 2 years, what would happen in our church and community?” • Cast vision for generational leadership: thinking in terms of “spiritual grandchildren.” • Call them to choose one multiplication question they’ll start asking this week.
*** 6. Sample Multiplication vs. Maintenance Questions***
Sunday School Teachers • Maintenance: How many kids will show up this week? • Multiplication: Which kids can I disciple so they can share their faith with others? • Multiplication: Who could I apprentice as a future teacher?
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Deacons • Maintenance: How do we meet the needs of our members better? • Multiplication: Who else can we raise up to serve so more people are empowered? • Multiplication: How do we multiply servant leaders, not just serve needs?
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Sound Booth / Tech Team • Maintenance: How do I make sure the sound and slides run smoothly this Sunday? • Multiplication: Who can I train so they can run sound in the future? • Multiplication: How do we multiply tech leaders so new services, campuses, or ministries can launch equipped?
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Worship Leaders • Maintenance: How do we sound better this Sunday? • Multiplication: Who in the band or congregation can I mentor to lead worship in the future? • Multiplication: How do we multiply worship leaders so that every group, gathering, or church plant has someone to lead?
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Pastors • Maintenance: How do we grow this church bigger? • Multiplication: How do we raise up pastors and church planters from within? • Multiplication: Who are my “Timothys” that I’m intentionally training to multiply leaders?
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Church Planters • Maintenance: How do I make this church strong and healthy? • Multiplication: How do I plant in such a way that this church will plant another church within 3 years? • Multiplication: How do I build a culture of sending from the very beginning?
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General “Every Leader” Questions • Maintenance: How do I succeed in my role? • Multiplication: Who am I apprenticing to take my place? • Multiplication: Who are my spiritual grandchildren — the people being discipled by those I discipled?
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***  7. Progression of Questions: From Addition to Multiplication***
Level 1: I Count (self-focused) • How am I doing? • Did I do a good job teaching / leading / serving? • Did people like what I did today?
(Example: A sound booth worker asks, “Did I get the slides right?”)
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Level 2: I Count What I Do (program-focused) • How many people showed up to my class, service, or ministry? • How can I make this better for those who attend? • Did the event/service/program run smoothly?
(Example: A Sunday school teacher asks, “How many kids are in my class this week?”)
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Level 3: I Count What We Do Together (team-focused) • How is our team doing? • How can we grow this ministry bigger or better together? • How can we serve more people as a team?
(Example: A deacon asks, “How can our deacon team meet more needs this year?”)
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Level 4: I Count Leaders I Raise Up (reproduction-focused) • Who am I apprenticing right now? • Who could I trust to lead if I wasn’t here? • How can I release more people into ministry and leadership?
(Example: A worship leader asks, “Who in the band can I mentor to lead a worship set?”)
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Level 5: I Count Leaders Who Multiply Leaders (movement-focused) • Who are my spiritual grandchildren — the leaders raised up by the leaders I’ve discipled? • How do we create a culture where leaders naturally multiply leaders? • How can we measure success by kingdom expansion, not just local growth?
(Example: A pastor asks, “Who are the church planters being trained by the leaders I’ve already raised up?”)
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✅ Progression Summary (for a slide or handout): • Level 1–2 questions: focus on me and my ministry. • Level 3 questions: focus on our ministry team. • Level 4 questions: focus on leaders I raise. • Level 5 questions: focus on leaders who raise leaders.
 
**(1:00)** What kinds of questions are you asking? Do your answers move you toward reproduction and multiplication or do they keep you stuck in the status quo? I know what kind of questions I want to be asking!
– “Thank you for listening today! -If you enjoyed the show you can listen to all the past shows wherever you listen to podcasts. A good place to start is at runwithhorses.net. You can also write me at norman@runwithhorses.net or leave a comment on the Run With Horses Podcast facebook page.Don’t be discouraged by the challenges you face. Keep your eyes on Jesus and embrace the opportunity to grow through the trial. Until next time, keep your eyes on Jesus and never stop running."**(00:00)**

Barriers for a Disciple Maker

Rwh13sep Ep.381 – Run With Horses Podcast –  3 Barriers Disciple Makers FacePodcast: rwh.podbean.comWebsite: www.runwithhorses.netYoutube:  https://youtube.com/@rwhpodcastFacebook:  https://www.facebook.com/RWHpodcastInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/rwh_podcastTwitter:  https://twitter.com/RWH_podcastAuthor pages with links to all books on Amazon.https://www.amazon.com/stores/author/B0BCSDDVLB – James Norman Smithhttps://www.amazon.com/stores/author/B0BMGW51FW – Susan Jane Smith
Barriers to Disciple-Making
Part 1: Why These Things Are a Problem
1. Busyness ( • Define it: Activity without intentionality. • Luke 10:41–42:2. Apathy • A lack of concern for spiritual needs. • Revelation 3:15–16:
3. Lack of Discipline • Inconsistent rhythms of prayer, Word, and mission. • 1 Corinthians 9:27 (: Part 2: What We Can Do About It
1. Countering Busyness with Margin • Ephesians 5:15–16:
2. Countering Apathy with Love and Prayer • Matthew 9:37–38: 3. Countering Lack of Discipline with Spiritual Good Habits • Luke 9:23 : 

5 Traits of a Disciple Maker

Rwh06sep Ep.380 – Run With Horses Podcast –  5 Traits of Disciple Makers
Podcast: rwh.podbean.com
Website: www.runwithhorses.net
Youtube:  https://youtube.com/@rwhpodcast
Facebook:  https://www.facebook.com/RWHpodcast
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/rwh_podcast
Twitter:  https://twitter.com/RWH_podcast
Author pages with links to all books on Amazon.
https://www.amazon.com/stores/author/B0BCSDDVLB – James Norman Smith
https://www.amazon.com/stores/author/B0BMGW51FW – Susan Jane Smith
 
1.. The Call to Discipleship
•Jesus’ Invitation
•Mark 1:17
•Goal of Discipleship
•Romans 8:29
 
2.. Theological Foundation of Spiritual Growth
•The Seed Growing
•Matthew 13:31–32
•Athletes Training
•1 Corinthians 9:24–27
•Endurance in the Race
•Hebrews 12:1–2
 
3.. Core Virtues in the Journey
 
1. Discipline
•1 Timothy 4:7–8
2. Perseverance
•James 1:2–4
 
3. Risk-Taking (Faith in Action)
•Jonathan and His Armor-Bearer (1 Samuel 14:6–7)
•Risk: Attacking a Philistine garrison with just two men.
•Faith: Jonathan trusted that God was not limited by numbers or strength.
•Outcome: God gave them victory, sparking courage in Israel.
 
 
4. Curiosity (A Holy Hunger)
•Acts 17:11
 
Zacchaeus Seeking Jesus
•Luke 19:3–4
•Curiosity: Zacchaeus was determined to see Jesus.
•Outcome: His seeking led to salvation coming to his house.
 
Godly curiosity:
•Is fueled by humility (acknowledging we don’t know everything).
•Leads to greater revelation (God meets seekers with truth).
•Results in deeper faith and obedience, not mere intellectual satisfaction.
 
5. Integrity (Wholeness and Consistency)
•Matthew 5:37
 
6.. Conclusion
•Philippians 1:6
•Return to Jesus’ words: “Follow Me, Fish for men.”
 
– “Thank you for listening today! 
-If you enjoyed the show you can listen to all the past shows wherever you listen to podcasts. A good place to start is at runwithhorses.net. You can also write me at norman@runwithhorses.net or leave a comment on the Run With Horses Podcast facebook page.
Day by day, God is transforming us into the image of His Son. Be encouraged that He will complete His work! And Until next time, keep your eyes on Jesus and never stop running."

Supporting Your Pastor's Wife

Rwh30aug Ep.379 – Run With Horses Podcast –  Supporting Your Pastor’s WifePodcast: rwh.podbean.comWebsite: www.runwithhorses.netYoutube:  https://youtube.com/@rwhpodcastFacebook:  https://www.facebook.com/RWHpodcastInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/rwh_podcastTwitter:  https://twitter.com/RWH_podcastAuthor pages with links to all books on Amazon.https://www.amazon.com/stores/author/B0BCSDDVLB – James Norman Smithhttps://www.amazon.com/stores/author/B0BMGW51FW – Susan Jane Smith

Following Jesus is a Journey, Part 2

Rwh23aug Ep.378 – Run With Horses Podcast –  Following Jesus is a Journey, Part 2
Podcast: rwh.podbean.com
Website: www.runwithhorses.net
Youtube:  https://youtube.com/@rwhpodcast
Facebook:  https://www.facebook.com/RWHpodcast
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/rwh_podcast
Twitter:  https://twitter.com/RWH_podcast
Author pages with links to all books on Amazon.
https://www.amazon.com/stores/author/B0BCSDDVLB – James Norman Smith
https://www.amazon.com/stores/author/B0BMGW51FW – Susan Jane Smith
 
**(24:00)**
If you feel like the spiritual life is an uphill battle sometimes you are probably in the right place. It is a journey of a lifetime that brings trials, and joys, that reveal your heart condition and point you to Christ. God is at work in the details and walks with you on the journey.
 
Welcome to Run With Horses! My name is Norman and my goal is to help you thrive as a follower of Jesus. The spiritual life is simple in many ways, but potentially the most difficult part of your life. God invites you to grow, to live intentionally and to join in His mission. It’s very cool that we can do that together!
Thank you for joining me today! “If you’re new here, you can check out past episodes at runwithhorses.net. As always, I appreciate your feedback, questions, and reviews!”
 
**(23:00 – 0:00)* *  PART 1
 
### *2: Expect Seasons of Slow Growth and Struggle
• Psalm 13:1-2 – “How long, O Lord? Will You forget me forever? How long will You hide Your face from me? How long shall I take counsel in my soul, having sorrow in my heart daily? How long will my enemy be exalted over me?”
 
Key • Struggles don’t indicate lack of growth; God often strengthens faith in hidden ways during hard times.
 
Applications for Disciple Makers
•Prepare disciples for inevitable dry seasons—normalize them.
•Teach perseverance; encourage trust in God’s timing.
•Model honesty about struggles (Psalms as a prayer guide).
 
Illustrations
•Israel in the wilderness (Deuteronomy 8:2).
•Winter season for a tree—growth still occurs underground.
•Missionary biographies (e.g., Adoniram Judson’s long seasons of waiting).
 
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### *3: Be an Active Participant in Growth (Spiritual Disciplines)
• God provides growth, but believers must cooperate through obedience and spiritual disciplines.
• Abiding in Christ sustains transformation.
* Daily pursuit of godliness as Paul challenged Timothy
 
Philippians 2:12-13 – “Work out your own salvation with fear and trembling; for it is God who works in you both to will and to do for His good pleasure.”
 
Hebrews 5:14 –“But solid food belongs to those who are of full age, that is, those who by reason of use have their senses exercised to discern both good and evil.”
 
John 15:4-5 –“Abide in Me, and I in you. As the branch cannot bear fruit of itself, unless it abides in the vine, neither can you, unless you abide in Me. I am the vine, you are the branches. He who abides in Me, and I in him, bears much fruit; for without Me you can do nothing.”
 
#### Key • Growth is not passive; disciplines keep us aligned with God’s transforming work.
 
Applications for Disciple Makers
•Practice spiritual disciplines: prayer, Scripture study, fellowship, serving. 
At their simplest, the spiritual disciplines are habits that support your spiritual life on your journey toward Christ-likeness.
•Encourage sustainable habits, not legalistic checklists.
•Train disciples to feed themselves spiritually and disciple others.
 
Illustrations
•Athlete training for a race (1 Corinthians 9:24-27).
•Garden analogy: We water and tend, but God gives the increase (1 Corinthians 3:6).
•Example of early church practices (Acts 2:42).
 
**(00:00) END PART 1**
**(27:00 – 5:00) BEGIN PART 2*
 
### •4. Growth is a Shared Journey
Key idea: Progressive, Seasonal, Participatory Growth is God’s Plan
 
#### • Progressive  – Growth is ongoing; we are being transformed into Christ’s image step by step.
• “But we all, with unveiled face, beholding as in a mirror the glory of the Lord, are being transformed into the same image from glory to glory, just as by the Spirit of the Lord.” (2 Corinthians 3:18 NKJV)
• “Till we all come to the unity of the faith and of the knowledge of the Son of God, to a perfect man, to the measure of the stature of the fullness of Christ.” (Ephesians 4:13 NKJV)
 
#### • Seasonal – Growth happens in different seasons: planting, pruning, waiting, harvesting.
• “To everything there is a season, a time for every purpose under heaven.” (Ecclesiastes 3:1 NKJV)
• “Every branch in Me that does not bear fruit He takes away; and every branch that bears fruit He prunes, that it may bear more fruit.” (John 15:2 NKJV)
God accomplishes different things in different seasons. What lessons are available in the trial you are facing now?
 
#### • Participatory – We cooperate with God’s work in us; He grows us as we yield and obey.
 1 Timothy 4:7-8 :“But reject profane and old wives’ fables, and exercise yourself toward godliness. For bodily exercise profits a little, but godliness is profitable for all things, having promise of the life that now is and of that which is to come.”
 
• “Work out your own salvation with fear and trembling; for it is God who works in you both to will and to do for His good pleasure.” (Philippians 2:12-13 NKJV)
• “I planted, Apollos watered, but God gave the increase.” (1 Corinthians 3:6 NKJV)
 
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### 5. Emphasize God’s Faithfulness: He Completes What He Starts
• God initiates and sustains our growth.
• “Being confident of this very thing, that He who has begun a good work in you will complete it until the day of Jesus Christ.” (Philippians 1:6 NKJV)
• Jesus is the Author and Finisher of our faith.
• “…looking unto Jesus, the author and finisher of our faith, who for the joy that was set before Him endured the cross, despising the shame, and has sat down at the right hand of the throne of God.” (Hebrews 12:2 NKJV)
• Even in failure, God restores and uses us. (Peter’s example: Luke 22:31-32; John 21:15-19)
 
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### 6. Practical Steps: How to Walk the Journey Together
 
#### *1. Identify Where You Are
• Be honest about your current stage: new believer, maturing, struggling, or discipling others.
• “Examine yourselves as to whether you are in the faith. Test yourselves.” (2 Corinthians 13:5 NKJV)
• Use prayer, Scripture, and counsel from mature believers to discern areas of growth.
* Ask: What is my next step of faithfulness?
 
#### *2. Walk Alongside Others
• Support others in their stage without comparison or judgment.
• “We then who are strong ought to bear with the scruples of the weak, and not to please ourselves.” (Romans 15:1 NKJV)
• “Bear one another’s burdens, and so fulfill the law of Christ.” (Galatians 6:2 NKJV)
• Follow Jesus’ model: He lived closely with His disciples, teaching and encouraging them daily.
 
#### *3. Commit to Ongoing Growth Through Disciplines and Community
• Disciplines: Prayer, Bible study, worship, fasting, service, confession.
• “As newborn babes, desire the pure milk of the word, that you may grow thereby.” (1 Peter 2:2 NKJV)
• Community: Growth happens best with others.
• “And let us consider one another in order to stir up love and good works, not forsaking the assembling of ourselves together, as is the manner of some, but exhorting one another, and so much the more as you see the Day approaching.” (Hebrews 10:24-25 NKJV)
 
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### 7. Vision: Why Shared Growth Matters, We are Disciple Makers
• Our growth equips us for the mission of making disciples.
• “Go therefore and make disciples of all the nations… teaching them to observe all things that I have commanded you.” (Matthew 28:19-20 NKJV)
• The world sees Christ in a community that grows together in love.
• “By this all will know that you are My disciples, if you have love for one another.” (John 13:35 NKJV)
• Growth in community fosters perseverance and joy.
• “Two are better than one, because they have a good reward for their labor. For if they fall, one will lift up his companion. But woe to him who is alone when he falls, for he has no one to help him up.” (Ecclesiastes 4:9-10 NKJV)
 

Following Jesus is a Journey, Part 1

Rwh16aug Ep.377 – Run With Horses Podcast –  Following Jesus is a Journey, Part 1Podcast: rwh.podbean.comWebsite: www.runwithhorses.netYoutube:  https://youtube.com/@rwhpodcastFacebook:  https://www.facebook.com/RWHpodcastInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/rwh_podcastTwitter:  https://twitter.com/RWH_podcastAuthor pages with links to all books on Amazon.https://www.amazon.com/stores/author/B0BCSDDVLB – James Norman Smithhttps://www.amazon.com/stores/author/B0BMGW51FW – Susan Jane Smith
**(24:00)**Pastor’s wives are often a forgotten link in a healthy church. What can you do to support your pastor’s wife in her role? That’s the topic of today’s show.
Welcome to Run With Horses! My name is Norman and my goal is to help you thrive as a follower of Jesus. The spiritual life is simple in many ways, but potentially the most difficult part of your life. God invites you to grow, to live intentionally and to join in His mission. It’s very cool that we can do that together!Thank you for joining me today! “If you’re new here, you can check out past episodes at runwithhorses.net. As always, I appreciate your feedback, questions, and reviews!”
**(23:00 – 0:00)* *  PART 1
Following Jesus is a Journey
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Pilgrimage, marathon, wilderness journey, The Pilgrim’s Progress. • spiritual growth: Ongoing transformation into Christ’s likeness (Romans 8:29). • Growth is neither instantaneous nor stagnant; it is a progressive walk empowered by the Spirit. • Our Goal: Equip disciple makers to understand, model, and guide others on this journey.
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*1 Spiritual Growth is Progressive, Not Instantaneous • Growth is lifelong; sanctification happens progressively as believers are conformed to Christ. • Conversion is the starting line, not the finish line. • Philippians 1:6 –“Being confident of this very thing, that He who has begun a good work in you will complete it until the day of Jesus Christ.” • 2 Corinthians 3:18 –“But we all, with unveiled face, beholding as in a mirror the glory of the Lord, are being transformed into the same image from glory to glory, just as by the Spirit of the Lord.” • Colossians 2:6-7 –“As you therefore have received Christ Jesus the Lord, so walk in Him, rooted and built up in Him and established in the faith, as you have been taught, abounding in it with thanksgiving.”
Key • God initiates growth, but we must remain rooted and allow Him to complete the work.
Applications for Disciple Makers • Help new believers understand growth takes time—avoid unrealistic expectations. • Celebrate progress, not perfection. • Encourage consistent abiding rather than instant change. * Be obedient in the little things each day, it adds up.
Illustrations • Seed to tree imagery (Mark 4:28). • Personal testimony of gradual transformation. * Bike Ride across Iowa _ RAGBRAI⸻
*2: Expect Seasons of Slow Growth and Struggle • Growth is not linear; dry seasons and struggles are part of God’s process. • Waiting and hardship often deepen roots unseen. • Ecclesiastes 3:1 –“To everything there is a season, a time for every purpose under heaven.” • Galatians 6:9 –“And let us not grow weary while doing good, for in due season we shall reap if we do not lose heart.”

Staying on Target, Part 2

Rwh09aug Ep.376 – Run With Horses Podcast –  Staying on target
Podcast: rwh.podbean.com
Website: www.runwithhorses.net
Youtube:  https://youtube.com/@rwhpodcast
Facebook:  https://www.facebook.com/RWHpodcast
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/rwh_podcast
Twitter:  https://twitter.com/RWH_podcast
Author pages with links to all books on Amazon.
https://www.amazon.com/stores/author/B0BCSDDVLB – James Norman Smith
https://www.amazon.com/stores/author/B0BMGW51FW – Susan Jane Smith
 
.5 Do Spiritual Mapping (Know the Needs)
 
Where is God calling us to focus?
•Acts 16:6-10 – Paul’s vision to go to Macedonia.
•Matthew 9:36-38 – Jesus saw the crowds, had compassion, and called for workers.
•Goals:
•Study community needs (demographics, unreached groups, underserved population).
•Pray for discernment: Where is the Spirit leading?
•Identify new areas or groups (subcultures) needing gospel engagement.
 
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.6 Remember Your Kingdom Job – Disciple Making
 
What is the primary calling of every church member?
•Matthew 4:19 – “Follow me, and I will make you fishers of men.”
•2 Corinthians 5:18-20 – Ministry of reconciliation; ambassadors for Christ.
•Goals:
•Remind constantly: Disciple-making is not optional.
•Fight mission drift (avoid letting programs replace mission).
•Help every believer see themselves as sent where they live, work, play. Our capacity may be different but our purpose is the same. To see Jesus glorified everywhere by everyone.
 
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.7 Develop and Maintain a Feedback System
 
How do we track and celebrate disciple-making progress?
•Acts 14:27 – Paul and Barnabas reported what God had done.
•Philippians 1:3-5 – Partnership in the gospel brings joy. Paul remembered, prayed and was full of joy because of others who partnered with him on the mission.
•Goals:
•Share regular reports/testimonies in services or meetings.
•Encourage peer accountability (who are you discipling, who disciples you?).
•Offer resources and coaching for active disciple-makers. Invite people to join the mission regularly.
 
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.8 Keep the Systems Simple (Reproducible)
 
How do we ensure multiplication is possible?
•2 Timothy 2:2 – Train faithful people who will train others.
•Matthew 10:5-10 – Jesus sent disciples simply, focusing on relationships.
•Goals:
•Keep training clear and reproducible (simple Bible studies, gospel tools).
•Start with baby steps (one habit at a time, one disciple at a time).
•Design everything for multiplication, not just addition.
 
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 A Call to Action
•Revisit Matthew 28:18-20 – Christ’s authority, command, and promise.
•Challenge: What is your next step in personal disciple-making?
•Corporate call: What is our next step as a church?

Staying on Target

 Ep.375 – Run With Horses Podcast –  Staying on targetPodcast: rwh.podbean.comWebsite: www.runwithhorses.netYoutube:  https://youtube.com/@rwhpodcastFacebook:  https://www.facebook.com/RWHpodcastInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/rwh_podcastTwitter:  https://twitter.com/RWH_podcastAuthor pages with links to all books on Amazon.https://www.amazon.com/stores/author/B0BCSDDVLB – James Norman Smithhttps://www.amazon.com/stores/author/B0BMGW51FW – Susan Jane Smith
**(24:00)**We are still talking about keeping our eyes on the target that Jesus has set before us. To be ambassadors for Christ on the mission of reconciliation, making disciples of the nations. Sound like a big job? Thankfully we are in this together and the Holy Spirit is doing His work in and through us.
Welcome to Run With Horses! My name is Norman and my goal is to help you thrive as a follower of Jesus. The spiritual life is simple in many ways, but potentially the most difficult part of your life. God invites you to grow, to live intentionally and to join in His mission. It’s very cool that we can do that together!Thank you for joining me today! “If you’re new here, you can check out past episodes at runwithhorses.net. As always, I appreciate your feedback, questions, and reviews!”
**(23:00 – 0:00)* *  PART 1
The Biblical Mandate • Matthew 28:18-20 – Jesus commands us to make disciples of all nations. • Key Question: Why does the church exist? • Not just for programs, services, or buildings—It exist as the body of Jesus to Cary out his mission of reconciliation in the world, practically, for disciple-making. • Every believer is called to participate (not just pastors).
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.1 Clarify the Win for the Team
Question: What does success look like for our church? • Colossians 1:28-29 – “Present everyone mature in Christ.” • Ephesians 4:11-13 – Equip saints until maturity and unity in faith. • Goals: • Define “disciple” (follower of Jesus growing in obedience, reproducing). Everyone needs to know the goal of Christ-likeness and have some idea of the path that leads there. • Create a shared vision and language (everyone knows what the goal is). It is a team effort, we need each other and simple, clear communication is important. • Success = transformed lives, not just attendance numbers.
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.2 Give Them Tools for the Win
How do we equip every believer to evangelize and disciple? • 2 Timothy 3:16-17 – Scripture equips believers for every good work. • Ephesians 4:12 – Leaders equip saints for ministry. • Acts 1:8 – Empowered by the Spirit to witness. • Goals: • Provide simple gospel tools (testimony, “3 Circles,” Romans Road, DBS). • Train in basic disciple habits (prayer, Bible, fellowship, serving). • Help members discover spiritual gifts (Romans 12; 1 Corinthians 12).
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.3 Radical Clarity About Mission
How do we keep the vision in front of us? • Habakkuk 2:2 – “Write the vision; make it plain.” • John 20:21 – “As the Father has sent me, I send you.” • Matthew 5:13-16 – Salt and light in the world. • Goals: • Constantly repeat the mission (sermons, meetings, ministries). • Celebrate wins (testimonies, baptisms, gospel impact stories). • Evaluate ministries: Does this move us toward Christ-likeness and help us make disciples?
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.4 Create Systems that Self-Correct and stay on task
How do we design processes that keep us on mission? • Acts 6:1-7 – Church creates structure to meet needs and continue growth. • 1 Corinthians 14:40 – “Do all things decently and in order.” • Goals: • Build reproducible models (small groups, one-on-one mentorship). • Review regularly and adjust to stay on mission. • Systems should serve people, not the other way around.