309. Building a Thriving Groups Ministry: Systems, Leadership, and Multiplication with Rick Howerton

Discipleship doesn’t happen by accident—it grows through intentional systems, equipped leaders, and a church culture that values transformation over attendance. As small group and discipleship leaders, we carry the weight of cultivating environments where spiritual growth is possible, but the path toward healthy group ministry can often feel unclear or overwhelming.

On today's episode, host Brian Daniel welcomes longtime discipleship strategist Rick Howerton for a deep dive into the evolution and current state of group ministry. Together, they unpack the non-negotiables for a growing, sustainable groups strategy, including the importance of clear systems, visionary leadership, and ongoing training and credentialing for group pastors.

Rick shares tried-and-true strategies for launching new groups, strengthening existing ones, and expanding the infrastructure needed to support a growing discipleship movement. He also highlights the distinction between coaching versus managing leaders, and how the right relational investment can unlock exponential growth. The episode concludes with an introduction to Rick’s Group Pastor Master Class Cohort, designed to equip leaders with practical tools and seasoned mentorship for long-term ministry impact.

If you’re looking to grow your groups ministry and multiply disciples with purpose and clarity, this conversation will give you the inspiration—and the blueprint—to do just that. If this episode helped you think more strategically about your ministry, please take a moment to rate, review, and share the podcast with another leader or pastor in your network.

SHOW LINKS:

Connect with Rick Howerton - rick.pgcc@gmail.com 

CLICK HERE to read the report from Lifeway Research about the state of groups.