What Is a Network?
If you’re new here, you might be wondering: What exactly do we mean by “network”? It’s a word that gets thrown around a lot—but in the context of The Great Collaboration, it means something very specific. And very powerful.
A network is not just a group of people who know each other. It’s not a loose collection of churches, pastors, or leaders who meet occasionally. A true network is an intentional, relational, mission-driven ecosystem—designed for multiplication, not just connection.
At its simplest, a network is 4 to 6 churches working together as friends on mission. These churches choose to collaborate, not out of convenience, but because they believe they’re better together. They share vision, resources, leadership, and encouragement to see the Gospel multiply through new disciples, new leaders, and new churches.
Let’s break it down further:
1. Intentional
Networks don’t happen by accident. They are built on shared vision and common values. They have a reason for existing—usually to multiply disciples, leaders, churches, or impact. Without intentionality, you just have a social group. With it, you have traction.
2. Relational
At the heart of every great network is trust. These are not transactional connections—they’re friendships on mission. People show up not just for strategy sessions, but to walk alongside one another, pray for each other, and share the load. A good network feels like family with a purpose.
3. Mission-Driven
A network isn’t just about mutual support—it’s about forward movement. Networks are built to mobilize people toward a common mission. They help leaders move from isolation to collaboration, from addition to multiplication. Networks don’t just gather—they go.
4. Ecosystem, Not Hierarchy
Networks are decentralized. They aren’t about top-down control or rigid structures. Instead, they’re more like a web—a living, flexible system that grows and adapts. Leadership is shared. Power is diffused. The goal is not to build a brand, but to extend the Kingdom.
When we talk about networks here, we’re talking about the backbone of movement. Movements don’t happen through celebrity pastors or slick programs—they happen when ordinary leaders link arms to pursue an extraordinary mission together. That’s the power of a network.
So whether you’re leading a few churches, coaching planters, or dreaming about citywide Gospel impact—if you’re doing it together with others, on purpose, for the sake of multiplication—you’re building a network.
And we’re here to help.
Patrick
Multipliers Takeaway: A network is 4 to 6 churches working together as friends on mission.
