Is your church growing, or are you just counting? In this episode of The Circuit, we tackle one of the most sensitive topics in ministry: The tension between metrics and mission. We dive deep into the story of King David’s census in 2 Samuel 24—a moment where a leader’s desire for security through numbers led to a national crisis. We discuss how Indiana South Wesleyan leaders can avoid the "David Trap" by shifting their focus from how much we have to how we make disciples.

In this episode, we discuss:

• The Motive of the Math: Identifying when tracking data turns from stewardship into a search for self-reliance.
• Resources vs. Reproduction: Why a lack of "stuff" is never an excuse for a lack of discipleship.
• The Deployment Mindset: Practical ways to audit your church’s success based on who is being sent out, rather than just who is sitting in.

Whether you are leading a rural congregation or a suburban multi-site, this conversation will challenge you to look past the spreadsheet and back toward the Great Commission.

"Every number has a name, every name has a story, and every story matters to God. We don't use people to build our church; we use our church to build people."

Scripture Reference: 2 Samuel 24; Matthew 28:19-20

Tags: #IndianaSouth #WesleyanChurch #Discipleship #ChurchLeadership #TheCircuitPodcast

The conversation explores the challenges and importance of continuous education and personal growth for pastors and leaders. It emphasizes the value of networking, relationship-building, and the practical preparation provided by Equip Week. The discussion also highlights the significance of spiritual health and the dangers of leading without a strong theological foundation.

Takeaways

• Continuous education is essential for pastors and leaders
• Networking and building relationships are crucial for pastoral growth

Chapters

• 00:00 Introduction to Circuit Leadership Podcast
• 05:22 The Value of Classroom Development
• 10:22 The Need for Personal Growth and Development
• 19:19 The Role of Equipping Craftsmen
• 25:04 The Importance of Relationship and Community
• 32:29 Encouraging Continuous Education

Multiplying Disciples and Churches: Insights from Ed Love

In this episode, Ed Love, the executive director of church multiplication and discipleship for the Wesleyan Church, shares valuable insights on how healthy discipleship leads to church multiplication, the importance of trusting the Holy Spirit, and practical steps for pastors to embrace a multiplying mindset. Whether you're a pastor, leader, or disciple-maker, Ed provides actionable wisdom rooted in his years of experience in church planting and leadership development.

Key Topics:

• The relationship between discipleship and church multiplication
• Why healthy things naturally reproduce
• The biblical foundation: Matthew 28 and the Great Commission
• Practical first steps for pastors to start discipleship efforts
• Overcoming common fears about releasing leaders
• The power of prayer and dependence on the Holy Spirit
• Organic church planting through passions and calling
• The importance of trusting and empowering emerging leaders
• Embracing failure as part of growth in ministry
• Strategies for intentional disciple-making in American churches

Resources & Links:

• Wesleyan Church Church Multiplication Resources
• Equip Week 2026 - Indiana South Wesleyan District
• The Great Commission - Matthew 28

Connect with Ed Love:

• Facebook
• Wesleyan Church - Church Multiplication

This episode offers strategic and spiritual insights to foster a culture of multiplication rooted in discipleship, prayer, and reliance on the Holy Spirit. Dive in to discover how you can begin or accelerate the multiplying movement in your church or ministry.

The conversation delves into the power and significance of prayer in various aspects of church leadership and growth. It explores the personal and communal impact of prayer, the challenges and guilt associated with inadequate prayer, and the importance of shifting prayers from 'me' to 'we'.

Takeaways

• Prayer as a guiding force
• The importance of a multiplication mindset

In this episode, District Superintendent Doug Preston shares insights on church health, revitalization, and the importance of prayer in ministry. He emphasizes the need for pastors to focus on spiritual health, community impact, and the power of prayer to sustain effective leadership.