What Does Worship Look Like in Disciple Making Movements?

“How does worship work in a Disciple Making Movement?” she asked in the chat of my live webinar.

The woman asking the question was a gifted worship leader. As she learned about disciple multiplication and movements (DMMs), she wondered whether there would be space for her gifts. My answer was simple: yes, absolutely—but it looks different than worship in a traditional (legacy) church.

Worship is essential to our spiritual lives. Through worship, we draw near to Jesus, experience His presence, and gaze on His beauty. Worship transforms us. Every disciple must grow as an active worshiper.

But our understanding of worship must expand beyond something that happens in a church building with a sound system and trained musicians. Disciple-Making Movements require a biblical and reproducible vision of worship—one that can multiply naturally wherever disciples gather.

Worship Beyond a Stage & Microphone

Recently, I was leading a Discovery Bible Study with a relatively new believer. We were studying John 4, the story of the woman at the well. As we discussed the passage, she shared an insight that struck me deeply.

“It doesn’t matter where we worship now that Jesus has come,” she said. “We don’t have to go to a certain place. What matters is worshiping Jesus from our hearts, not just in a specific format.”

Her action step? “I want to set aside time every day to be quiet, listen to God, and worship Him.”

Jesus said, “God is spirit, and His worshipers must worship in the Spirit and in truth” (John 4:24).

Worship is not about geography or form. It is about our spirits connecting with God in genuine love, adoration, and praise. This happens both individually and corporately—and both matter deeply in movements.

What Worship Can Look Like in Movements (DMMs)

In Disciple Making Movements, worship often looks different from what many of us are used to.

One common expression is worship through thanksgiving. Many Discovery groups begin by sharing what they are thankful for, followed by a simple prayer of gratitude. Thankfulness itself becomes their act of worship.

In public settings like coffee shops, non‑musical worship is often best. A leader may repeat a Scripture phrase—such as “Give thanks to the Lord, for His love endures forever”—and group members take turns adding their own expressions of praise. This simple, participatory form of worship is powerful and highly reproducible.

When groups meet in homes, indigenous expressions of worship are encouraged. Movements grow best when worship reflects local culture. Instead of importing Western worship styles. We encourage the use of local instruments, melodies, rhythms, and postures. The form of worship is neutral; it can be redeemed and used to glorify Jesus.

Finally, Indian movement leader Victor Choudhrie defines worship as offering souls to Christ—presenting those we have led to Jesus as an act of praise. This, too, is worship.

Worship in Disciple Making Movements may look different, but it is no less vital. In fact, it fuels multiplication. Training every disciple to worship in spirit and in truth is central to teaching obedience to Jesus.

• How will you help new disciples grow as worshipers?
• What will you do to ensure worship stays simple and reproducible?

We’d love to hear your thoughts in the comments below or on the Dare to Multiply community.  Subscribe for free and join us today!