Podcast Episode: Interview with Jay Kranda – “Online Church Is Not The Answer”

Episode Title: “Online Church Is Not The Answer” – A Conversation with Jay Kranda
Guest: Jay Kranda, Online Campus Pastor at Saddleback Church and Author of Online Church Is Not The Answer
Host:  Jason Alexis, The BeeCast for Churches Show
Duration: 45 min (Episode 1.0) – Released Mar 3, 2025

🎙️ Episode Overview

In this episode, we sit down with Jay Kranda to explore why he boldly claims that “online church is not the answer” and what it really takes to build thriving faith communities in a digital era. Jay brings over a decade of experience as the online pastor of a 25,000+ member church, and he shares eye-opening insights into blending online ministry with in-person connection. From launching 1,700 online small groups worldwide to harnessing new tech like AI for outreach, Jay’s stories will challenge the way you think about digital church. Get ready for practical tips, honest lessons, and a fresh vision for the future of ministry!

👉 Press Play to Listen to the Full Conversation:

🔑 Show Notes & Key Discussion Points

• Why “Online Church Is Not The Answer”: Jay unpacks the provocative title of his book, explaining that streaming services alone won’t fulfill the mission. He outlines how hybrid disciple-making (combining online and offline efforts) is the true key to growing engaged communities.
• Building 1,700 Online Small Groups: Hear the behind-the-scenes story of how Saddleback Church’s online ministry grew from zero to 1,700 small groups in four years. Jay discusses the strategies they used to foster genuine relationships and discipleship entirely online, and the surprises and challenges along the way.
• Integrating Online & In-Person Ministry: Jay shares practical ways to connect your online viewers with on-campus experiences. From virtual small group models to encouraging local meetups, discover how to bridge the gap so your online attendees don’t stay isolated.
• The Role of Technology and AI: We dive into emerging tech trends – like artificial intelligence 🤖 – and how they could revolutionize church outreach. Jay gives examples of new tools (from AI note-taking to streaming platforms) and how churches can leverage them responsibly and authentically.
• Common Mistakes to Avoid: Jay candidly talks about pitfalls many ministries hit in digital strategy – such as focusing on views over engagement – and offers tips on what to do instead. Learn about setting the right goals and expectations for online ministry success.
• Jay’s Digital Advancement Cohort: As the conversation wraps up, Jay introduces his upcoming 6-Month Digital Advancement Cohort for church leaders. He explains who it’s for and how this program can help you take your church’s digital strategy to the next level with coaching and community support.

📚 Resources & Links

• Jay Kranda’s Book – “Online Church Is Not The Answer: Beyond Streaming Church to Hybrid Disciple-Making” – Learn more or get your copy here: Purchase the Book
• Jay’s 6-Month Digital Advancement Cohort – Interested in guided coaching on digital ministry? Check out details for Jay’s cohort program: Learn About the Cohort
• Connect with Jay Kranda: Jay’s Website | Twitter @JayKranda | Instagram @jaykranda

✅ Join the Conversation

We hope Jay’s insights spark new ideas for you and your team! What was your biggest takeaway from this episode? Share your thoughts in the comments below. If you have questions for Jay or our host, drop them there too – we’re listening and ready to engage.

Enjoyed this episode? Don’t forget to subscribe to our podcast for more inspiring conversations like this. And if you found value here, consider sharing this episode with a friend or colleague in ministry. Together, let’s continue learning how to better connect and disciple in today’s digital world.

🎧 Ready to get started? Hit the play button above and dive into our chat with Jay Kranda now! Happy listening!