Why are Disciple Making Movements NOT Happening in North America?

Check out Discipleship.org for resources on disciple-making: https://discipleship.org/resources/  “Today’s episode will help us understand why disciple-making movements thrive in places like South Asia but struggle in North America, and how we can spark spiritual renewal through prayer, and fasting.” Stay Informed - Get our newsletter: http://eepurl.com/hPViAr Why Disciple Making Movements Struggle in North America - Part 1 | Disciple Makers Podcast In this episode of the Disciple Makers podcast, Jason Ishmael and his co-host dive into why disciple-making movements haven't thrived in North America as expected. They explore four key reasons, split into two parts for detailed discussion. Emphasis is placed on the power of prayer, fasting, and the need for personal responsibility in spreading the gospel. Real-life examples and tips are shared, encouraging listeners to think strategically about their faith practices. Join us for an inspiring conversation on how to ignite spiritual awakening and revival in your community. Get Discipleship.org's premium Podcast Feed: https://disciplemakerspodcast.supercast.com/    WATCH THE VIDEO   Key Takeaways  00:00 Introduction and Welcome 02:52 Heart Issues in Disciple Making 05:15 Radical Prayer and Fasting 07:11 The Power of Desperation and Prayer 10:12 The Role of Prayer in Revival 16:55 Crazy Farmers: The Parable of the Sower 18:28 The Parable of the Sower 18:52 Boldness in Sharing the Gospel 19:03 The Farming Analogy: Sowing and Reaping 20:31 Challenges in American Seed Sowing 22:05 The Importance of Personal Responsibility 23:07 The Domino Effect of Faith 26:34 The Power of Speaking Up 29:00 Living and Preaching the Gospel 34:25 Practical Steps for Prayer and Fasting 37:18 Conclusion and Next Steps   Check out our Blogs: https://discipleship.org/blog/  See Below for a longer description: In episode 3 of the Disciple Makers Podcast, hosts Josh Howard and Jason Ishmael dive into an engaging and heartfelt discussion about the challenges and opportunities for disciple-making movements, particularly in North America. They explore why these movements have thrived in regions like South Asia but remain slower to gain traction in North America. Highlights from the Episode Josh shares how movements in South Asia have seen remarkable success, citing examples like 75,000 conversions in nine months. He contrasts this with the slower growth in North America, attributing it less to cultural factors and more to deeper spiritual and heart-level issues. Two Key Success Factors The hosts identify two game-changing practices driving movements overseas: Radical Prayer and Fasting: South Asian leaders dedicate hours daily to prayer and frequently fast, practices less common in North American churches. Josh emphasizes that these spiritual disciplines create the foundation for breakthroughs. Personal Evangelism: Leaders overseas are bold and persistent in sharing the gospel, sowing “seeds” widely. The hosts argue that more sharing leads to a greater harvest, encouraging listeners to adopt this “crazy farmer” mindset. North American Barriers The conversation shifts to the unique obstacles in North America, including: Busyness and Self-Sufficiency: The fast-paced, self-reliant culture leaves little space for spiritual disciplines like prayer and fasting. Comfort Zones: A lack of desperation for spiritual renewal often hinders a deeper dependence on Jesus. Practical Steps for Listeners Josh and Jason offer actionable advice: Start small with prayer and fasting, even just with a friend or small group for accountability. Pray intentionally for revival and specific individuals by name. Focus on strategic, mission-oriented prayers rather than only personal needs. Stories and Encouragement Josh shares powerful examples from South Asia, illustrating how focused prayer and fasting have sparked spiritual awakenings. He encourages listeners to expect God to move when they step out in faith. Reframing Evangelism The hosts address common misconceptions about evangelism: Words Matter: They debunk the idea of “preach the gospel, use words if necessary,” stressing the need for both proclamation and a gospel-aligned lifestyle. Positive Message: Sharing the beauty and grace of Jesus is more effective than relying on fear or condemnation. A Vision for Revival Josh and Jason end on a hopeful note, envisioning a future where North American Christians embrace prayer, fasting, and bold evangelism to spark widespread spiritual renewal. Call to Action Listeners are encouraged to reflect on the episode's themes and take small, actionable steps toward deeper spiritual practices. Josh hints at more in-depth discussions in upcoming episodes and directs listeners to resources on discipleship.org for support. This episode is packed with practical insights and inspiring stories, urging believers to lean into prayer, fasting, and evangelism to reignite disciple-making movements.