Investing in Apprentices
Tom Pounder • August 15, 2024
In ministry, investing in apprentices is so important. See how and why as Christopher Wesley shares.
Subscribe to TCD Sidekick , Android, Spotify | RSS
ACTION STEPS:
- Share your thoughts! What stood out to you? Share below or on Twitter by reaching out to Tom .
- If you want to connect with Chris, there are a few different ways. He’s on Twitter/X, has an awesome blog with tons of great insights each week. You can also check out the article we discussed. In addition you can learn more about and sign up for the Marathon Youth Ministry University.
- Join the Digital Bootcamp Facebook group, to learn how to be more effective using digital tools for your ministry join the group. This is for all ministers, not just church communicators or social media managers as we share resources, tools and digital trends to see how we can reach more people for Christ with these tools.
- Looking for Digital Ministry coaching? theChurch.digital is offering a variety of digital, phygital or metaverse ministry coaching and cohorts.
- If you are in digital ministry, be part of the Digital Ministry Twitter community. We share daily encouragement and support to help you do ministry in this online world more effectively.
- Sign up for the Sidekick Scoop weekly email. Each Friday, get a fresh email with content from all over the ministry world (especially online and student ministry topics) and be encouraged in how you can minister more effectively in today's world.
- If you have an idea for a topic or a person to be interviewed for a future podcast episode, contact Tom Pounder
What do you think? Share your ideas on Discord or on social media.
Through the.Church.digital, we are helping physical and digital churches better understand the discipleship process, and helping churches and church planters understand this and other decentralized mindset shifts. By taking this quick assessment we can get you connect with a coach, resources and more. Also, check out our Discord Group where we are encouraging people daily.

2025 is set to be a groundbreaking year for theChurch.digital as we focus on equipping and mobilizing digital missionaries worldwide. From innovative training formats and community expansion to global partnerships and gospel-centered initiatives, we're creating new ways to connect, empower and support digital missions. With a bold vision for prayer, discipleship and a lot more gospel conversations, this year promises to redefine how we share Jesus in digital spaces.

The church is at a crossroads, facing the need to move beyond traditional, pulpit-focused models and embrace digital ministry as a catalyst for transformation. Digital platforms provide opportunities to foster authentic relationships, empower individuals and reach those beyond physical walls, making the mission of Jesus accessible to a world in need of connection and hope.

Explore how digital missions are transforming outreach by meeting people where they are online. From creating vibrant faith communities to fostering genuine connections on digital platforms, this offer endless opportunities for spiritual growth and connection. Discover how innovative approaches are reshaping evangelism for today’s online world.

In the evolving landscape of digital ministry, safeguarding privacy is key to building trust. By respecting boundaries, leveraging technology, and navigating platform nuances, digital missionaries create safe spaces for meaningful conversations. These efforts foster genuine relationships and empower discipleship in digital spaces.

In a world increasingly shaped by technology, the potential for digital ministry is vast. From leveraging familiar tools to overcoming tech hesitations, the focus is on building authentic connections. Digital spaces offer unique opportunities for sharing faith and fostering meaningful relationships across any distance.

Digital discipleship redefines faith engagement for today’s digital landscape, leveraging technology to foster community, generosity, and deeper relationships online. Through digital missionaries and innovative practices, churches can expand their reach, connect with believers, and develop a clear discipleship pathway that meets people where they actually are.

Digital missionaries are redefining missions outreach by using technology to engage in disciple-making across online platforms. As digital spaces become mission fields, anyone can fulfill a calling without leaving their community. Through mentorship and intentional outreach, these pioneers build impactful connections that extend beyond traditional church walls.

Privacy should be a non-negotiable in digital ministry. As faith move online, digital leaders must create spaces where personal stories stay safe. This isn’t about tech alone—it's about trust. By setting clear boundaries, asking permission, and leading vigilantly, we make room for real connection and digital discipleship.

Social media connects people globally but misses the depth needed for true communities, which thrive on two-way conversations and relational engagement—better achieved through digital communities like Discord or Slack. These platforms foster dialogue, empowerment, and nuanced relationships built on trust. Transitioning followers to these dynamic digital communities leverages social media's reach, creating spaces where authentic interactions can truly flourish.

Digital missionaries use online platforms like WhatsApp, TikTok, and YouTube to share the Gospel with those who may be distant from traditional church settings. As trust in church buildings and pastors declines, many now turn to digital tools for spiritual guidance. Platforms like theChurch.digital support these missionaries by validating, equipping, and mobilizing them for their unique digital ministry, helping them connect with people globally and multiply their efforts for Christ’s Kingdom.

theChurch.digital is evolving into a digital mission-sending agency, equipping everyday people to become digital missionaries in their unique online contexts. With the concept of Platforms as Places, the organization views platforms like TikTok and YouTube as mission fields and will train digital missionaries through a new 13-week course launching in 2025. Outposts will further support and empower these missionaries, fostering encouragement, exploration, experimentation, and collaboration across digital spaces.

The digital ministry scene is buzzing with activity. Here are the latest trends in social media, live streaming, and digital disciple-making to help strengthen your online ministry. Key insights from July 2024 include the power of authenticity, tips to avoid burnout and the potential of unconventional spaces like bars for disciple-making.