Microchurch Conference: Jerry from the E-2 Hub
Episode Summary
In this episode of the KC Underground podcast, Brian sits down with Jerry from the E-2 Hub to continue reflecting on the recent Microchurch Conference and what God is doing through disciple-makers in diverse and often transient contexts. Jerry shares his story of encountering Jesus through the ordinary faithfulness of his uncle, and how that moment reshaped his understanding of calling and ministry.
As a military chaplain, Jerry reflects on the shift from trying to force ministry into familiar forms to embracing a simpler, relational way of joining Jesus—leading to multiplying communities in unexpected places. He also shares how the KC Underground family has provided grounding across constant change, and encourages listeners to stay attentive to the Holy Spirit, trusting that simple obedience can have far-reaching impact.
Key Themes & Takeaways
1. Meeting Jesus in an Ordinary Place
Jerry serves in the military, has been married for 14 years, and has three kids.
Though he had moments of spiritual searching earlier in life, Jerry describes truly meeting Jesus in his uncle’s mechanic shop.
His uncle—an ordinary mechanic with a prison history and a deep love for Jesus—became a picture of what everyday faith could look like.
That encounter reshaped Jerry’s life and opened the door to a deeper surrender.
2. A Call to Ministry in the Military
On January 1, 2010, Jerry surrendered his life and future to Jesus.
He sensed God calling him toward ministry in the military, though he did not yet understand what that meant.
Within weeks, he was connected to a seminary president who had created a scholarship for future military chaplains.
What seemed impossible became a clear pathway through God’s provision.
3. From Forcing Ministry to Joining Jesus
Jerry’s early years in ministry were marked by trying to make things happen.
After connecting with Missionaries Made and movement principles, his paradigm began to shift.
Instead of forcing ministry, he began looking for persons of peace, starting discovery Bible studies, and trusting God to lead.
The smaller way helped him simplify and return to what mattered most: abiding, listening, and joining Jesus.
4. Movement in a Transient Military Context
While stationed in Italy, Jerry struggled with the lack of consistency, community, and rhythm.
Over time, he built deep relationships and began noticing patterns among people who wanted community.
Rather than launching something centered on himself, he connected people together.
The result:
Seven house churches emerged
75–100 people gathered weekly
Groups continued after Jerry moved
Leaders carried the model into new places, including Hawaii
5. The Gift of a Bigger Family
Jerry describes E2 and the Kansas City Underground as a stabilizing support system.
In the midst of military transition, repeated moves, and changing ministry contexts, the network helped him return to simplicity.
The Microchurch Conference reminded him that he is not alone.
Being welcomed by KC Underground leaders became a deeply meaningful experience of receiving the same hospitality he often extends to others.
6. Discipline Trains You, Listening Leads You
Jerry compares disciple-making to endurance training.
Training requires discipline, structure, and intentionality.
But in the race itself, the key is listening:
Listening to your body
Listening to the Holy Spirit
Listening to what God is doing in the moment
His encouragement: discipline matters, but mission requires attunement.
7. The Global Reach of Local Obedience
Jerry closes by honoring the ripple effect of the Kansas City Underground.
Because people said yes years ago, disciple-making impact is now reaching military communities across the world.
From Italy to Hawaii, Texas, Spain, North Macedonia, and beyond, small acts of obedience have multiplied far beyond Kansas City.
Final Thoughts
Jerry’s story reminds us that God often begins in ordinary places—with ordinary people who say yes. A mechanic shop, a military base, a lunch conversation, or a house church can become the soil where the kingdom takes root. The invitation is not to force ministry, but to listen well and move with Jesus. When we stay attentive to His voice, the impact of our obedience may reach farther than we ever imagined.
