Forming Disciple-Making Churches and Christlike Leaders with Mark Williamson

How can churches move beyond simply gathering people to actually making disciples who transform communities?

Summary

In this episode of the Lausanne Movement Podcast, Jason Watson talks with Mark Williamson, leader, coach, and pioneer behind One Rock International and Fresh Expressions UK. Mark shares how disciple-making lies at the heart of true church growth, why he believes Fresh Expressions of church is crucial for reaching today’s world, and how raising Christlike leaders fuels Kingdom transformation. Packed with practical examples and spiritual wisdom, this conversation is a must-listen for anyone passionate about seeing the global Church thrive.

Main Points

Why Disciple-Making Matters: Mark explains why many churches miss the mark on making disciples—and how this affects the Church’s mission in the world.
Fresh Expressions of Church: Hear how innovative forms of church like Café Church and Messy Church are reaching people who’d never step into traditional services.
Pioneering vs. Planting: Learn why Fresh Expressions focuses on pioneering new communities shaped by local culture rather than simply replicating existing church models.
Principles for Global Mission: Mark shares key steps for listening to your community, discerning local needs, and launching contextual ministry initiatives.
One Rock International: Discover how Mark’s organization equips leaders through content, coaching, and community to develop Christlike character and impactful leadership skills.
Keys to Discipleship: Mark highlights three essentials for disciple-making: one-on-one relationships, role modeling, and giving people real responsibility.
Encouragement from Hudson Taylor: Be inspired by the reminder that in God’s work, everything moves from impossible, to difficult, to done.

Call to Action

Are you ready to build a disciple-making church and raise leaders who transform communities for Christ? Subscribe to the Lausanne Movement Podcast, leave us a review, and share this episode with your network. Explore more resources on our website to equip your journey in global mission.

Links & Resources

One Rock International – Developing Christlike leaders through content, coaching, and community.
Fresh Expressions UK – Pioneering new forms of church for those not reached by traditional models.
Messy Church – Intergenerational, hands-on church for families.
Contact Mark Williamson

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Guests in This Episode

Mark Williamson

Mark Williamson is the co-founder and Executive Director of One Rock International, where he equips emerging Christian leaders through spiritual formation, coaching, and leadership training. He also serves as Chair of the Board for Fresh Expressions UK, helping pioneer new forms of missional church that reach people outside traditional congregations.

A Methodist lay preacher and seasoned leadership trainer, Mark has spent over 20 years mentoring church planters, social entrepreneurs, and ministry pioneers across the globe. He has helped lead innovative faith communities like Sanctuary Westminster in central London, and he regularly writes and teaches on Christlike leadership, disciple-making, and the global mission of the church.