Do you recognise the power of listening?

We often think of leaders as being assertive, decisive, and with a winsome personality. But the most successful leaders are almost always those who understand the value of listening often and well to others.

As you read through the book of Ezekiel it is evident that much of what was written was a result of simply listening to what God was speaking. And then communicating it to the people. In fact, we could say that is true of all Scripture. God spoke to the prophets, apostles, and chosen others who listened and wrote what God spoke to them. And today we have this powerful book, the Bible.

for no prophecy was ever made by an act of human will, but men moved by the Holy Spirit spoke from God.
– 2 Peter 1:21

Listening is crucial in the lives of leaders. It enables us to connect with our teams on a much deeper level, and to make more informed decisions. And listening well to our leaders allows us to understand them and, when needed, discern the best way forward.

Listening is a critical skill for effective leadership, followership, and discipleship. Let’s listen well and create a culture of openness, respect, and collaboration, leading to success and sustainability.

Global Disciples Canada is a Christian mission organization that trains local leaders living near least-reached communities to multiply disciples for Christ. One-third of our world hasn’t heard the Good News of Jesus. Yet. Global Disciples refers to these as “least-reached” people, and fewer than 10% of all missionaries work among these groups. We live in a time where many of these people are within reach of a local church. Through our simple and effective strategy of training and coaching, believers share the Gospel in their own nations and cultures. Jesus said, “Go and make disciples of all nations,” and we’re committed to doing just that. If you are looking for a Christian mission organization to partner with to become a better disciple and help make disciples, connect with us today!

Fire is mentioned often in the Bible.

For our God is a consuming fire.
– Hebrews 12:29

John answered them all, saying, “I baptize you with water, but he who is mightier than I is coming, the strap of whose sandals I am not worthy to untie. He will baptize you with the Holy Spirit and fire.
– Luke 3:16

We see the word appearing several hundred times in the Old Testament and around 70 times in the New Testament. But the references to fire in the Bible that are most memorable are the times there was an obvious fire that didn’t destroy what was burning.

There was the burning bush that Moses saw (Exodus 3:1-3). And a pillar of fire led the people of Israel in their flight from Egypt (Exodus 13:20-22). After the Tabernacle was built, that fire hovered over the Holy of Holies – always in view of over a million people in their huge tent city (Exodus 40:38).

In these situations the fire represented one thing, the presence of our Almighty God (represented by an angel in the burning bush).

God directed Moses, even though he resisted, to go to Pharoah and build a case for granting freedom to the mass of slaves who were building huge, impressive cities of brick for the king’s own fame and prestige. The plagues that followed finally convinced him.

The description of what happened after the Tabernacle was completed is amazing.

A cloud by day and a pillar of fire by night “covered the tent of meeting, and the glory of the Lord filled the tabernacle. And Moses was not able to enter the tent of meeting because…the glory of the Lord filled the Tabernacle. Throughout all their journeys, whenever the cloud was taken up …, the people of Israel would set out. If the cloud was not taken up, then they did not set out…” (Exodus 40:34-38)

Yet, even more amazing is what happened about 1,500 years later.

Jesus promised his disciples that they would soon “receive power when the Holy Spirit has come upon” them and that they will be His “witnesses in Jerusalem and in all Judea and Samaria, and to the end of the earth.” (Acts 1:8)

The disciples of Jesus, about 120 in all, were waiting in prayer and expectation when suddenly it happened! That pillar of fire which had hovered over the dwelling place of God in the Tabernacle now came. “Divided tongues of fire appeared to them and rested on each one of them.” (Acts 2:3)

Let that incredible symbolism sink in!

The pillar of fire that hovered over the Holy of Holies in the Tabernacle now hovers over you and me! This leads to this astounding proclamation of the Apostles Paul, “Do you not know that you are God’s temple and that God’s Spirit dwells in you?… For God’s temple is holy, and you are that temple.” (1 Corinthians 3:16-17) Just let that sink in!

We are God’s temple! How well are we caring for this temple? How well are we representing Jesus?

Global Disciples Canada is a Christian mission organization that trains local leaders living near least-reached communities to multiply disciples for Christ. One-third of our world hasn’t heard the Good News of Jesus. Yet. Global Disciples refers to these as “least-reached” people, and fewer than 10% of all missionaries work among these groups. We live in a time where many of these people are within reach of a local church. Through our simple and effective strategy of training and coaching, believers share the Gospel in their own nations and cultures. Jesus said, “Go and make disciples of all nations,” and we’re committed to doing just that. If you are looking for a Christian mission organization to partner with to become a better disciple and help make disciples, connect with us today!

Learn how discipleship leads to multiplication and how you can participate in Jesus’ Great Commission and see lives transformed!

When Jesus called His first disciples, He gave them an invitation…and a promise. As He walked by the Sea of Galilee, He saw Simon, who He called Peter, and Andrew casting their nets into the lake because they were fishermen. Jesus called out to them, Follow me” —the invitation. “And I will make you fishers of men” —the promise. “I will send you out to fish for people.” It’s a package deal!

When Jesus calls us to follow Him, it’s an invitation with an expected outcome: to be disciples who make disciples.

At Global Disciples, we talk about this as “discipleship-mission.” Jesus invites us to discipleship—the process of being a disciple. A disciple is a learner, a follower, an imitator. As disciples of Jesus, we are to follow the pattern of Jesus in His practice of living.

We learn how to live to be like Jesus.

That’s discipleship.

You and me, placing our faith in Jesus Christ for salvation. And following His instructions and example to live according to His pattern.

But He promises to make disciples into “fishers of men.” And that’s the mission part. We are not only to be His disciples. We must actively engage in helping others follow the pattern of Jesus’ life. In fact, we are disciples on a mission.

In Global Disciples, our goal is to train men and women to be both disciples—and disciple-makers. We want to see people come to know Jesus as their Savior and to be His disciples. People who follow His pattern and make new disciples. And that’s how the Body of Christ grows.

So we work alongside the Body of Christ to equip believers to be disciples who follow Jesus and fulfill His mission. By putting our efforts where disciple-makers will go and make disciples among people who have not yet heard the Good News of Jesus, we are fulfilling the mission Jesus gave to all His disciples to multiply “even to the ends of the earth.”

As Global Disciples, we put our efforts into training and equipping people to be disciples … and to make disciples of Jesus Christ. The essence of discipleship is following and obeying Jesus. In the process, we become more like Him in our thoughts, our motives, our speech, our actions, our relationships, and priorities.

The book of Second Peter gives us a beautiful insight into the essence of discipleship, a letter written to those who, “through the righteousness of God and our Savior Jesus Christ have received a faith as precious as ours.” In chapter 1, verse 2, Peter writes: “Grace and peace be yours in abundance through the knowledge of God and of Jesus our Lord. His divine power has given us everything we need for a godly life through our knowledge of him who called us by his own glory and excellence. Through these he has given us his great and precious promises, so that through them you may participate in the divine nature, having escaped the corruption of the world caused by evil desires.”

That phrase—participate in the divine nature—should arrest our souls. We love the idea of being “co-laborers with Christ” as it says in First Corinthians 3:9. And as Christians, we often talk about doing what we do for, to, and with Christ—as an act of worship to God. That all we do is done for God and for His glory. And that nothing is impossible, because we do it all with the power of the Spirit which raised Jesus from the dead.

But in Second Peter, we are invited to participate with God—not only in what we do but to participate in His divine nature. To become like him in character and in our desires. To have the mind of Christ we read about in Philippians 2:5-8—being humble servants, obedient even to death. Think about that.

That’s our great challenge in becoming a disciple…and in making disciples too.

As Global Disciples, we talk about multiplying disciples and multiplying churches. But there’s another level of multiplication we’re excited to see. Let’s call it — multiplying the multipliers. 

Let us explain: We train leaders in clusters of churches around the world to train disciples who in turn are equipped to make more disciples and start new churches.

That’s one level of multiplication – the one we talk about the most.

But we’ve also developed those who train the church leaders, to launch and direct training programs. We look for men and women who’ve led discipleship-mission programs, and have the ability and experience to train the next generation of program directors. So they’re the ones who will multiply the multipliers!

In the over 60 countries we work in, we now have “on the ground” staff leading the 2-week training sessions for new directors for discipleship-mission training programs! Adding locally-based trainers allows us to multiply training for new workers more rapidly!  We have people with the experience and credibility – and with a better cultural understanding – who can successfully provide quality training. This multiplies our ability to meet more and more requests we receive for our Global Disciples model.

A recent directors training in Kenya was conducted by our Kenya staff facilitators, without relying on any North American trainers. Victor led the training and he wrote, “Thank you so much for delegating this directors training to us. We can assure you we gave our very best… Participants went home revived, with a new vision, passion, energy, and a renewed focus on multiplying disciples and churches among least-reached people groups. It is our prayer that these leaders will not be distracted by the enemy but will focus on the vision.”

Our heart at Global Disciples is to Multiplying disciples, multiplying churches, and multiplying the multipliers. All this so the Good News of Jesus can be shared with those who have yet to hear it.

Our goal as Christians is to be a disciple of Jesus Christ.

Our vision at Global Disciples Canada is to see that every person has an opportunity to hear the Good News of Jesus Christ in a way they can understand and respond to.

Our mission as Christians is to train other disciples to go and make disciples.

You can learn more about Global Disciples Canada HERE.

Global Disciples Canada is a Christian mission organization that trains local leaders living near least-reached communities to multiply disciples for Christ. One-third of our world hasn’t heard the Good News of Jesus. Yet. Global Disciples refers to these as “least-reached” people, and fewer than 10% of all missionaries work among these groups. We live in a time where many of these people are within reach of a local church. Through our simple and effective strategy of training and coaching, believers share the Gospel in their own nations and cultures. Jesus said, “Go and make disciples of all nations,” and we’re committed to doing just that. If you are looking for a Christian mission organization to partner with to become a better disciple and help make disciples, connect with us today!

The Bible talks a lot about fear and anxiety and there are plenty of references to bible verses and quotations to encourage your soul, no matter what you’re going through today!

We live in a crazy world with wars, conflicts, natural disasters, crime, divisions, racism, disease, sickness, and more. There is not a shortage of things that could potentially fill us with fear and anxiety.

Come to Me, all who are weary and heavily burdened [by religious rituals that provide no peace], and I will give you rest [refreshing your souls with salvation]. Take My yoke upon you and learn from Me [following Me as My disciple], for I am gentle and humble in heart, and you will find rest (renewal, blessed quiet) for your souls. – Matthew 11:28-29

God’s word is powerful in making people feel stronger by reminding them that they can get through anything with God’s love. The Holy Spirit ministers to our souls when we read the Bible. These uplifting quotes are a great way to start your morning, and they can also guide your thoughts when you’re going through a hard time.

Philippians 4:6-7
Don’t fret or worry. Instead of worrying, pray. Let petitions and praises shape your worries into prayers, letting God know your concerns. Before you know it, a sense of God’s wholeness, everything coming together for good, will come and settle you down. It’s wonderful what happens when Christ displaces worry at the center of your life.

1 John 4:18
 There is no fear in love [dread does not exist]. But perfect (complete, full-grown) love drives out fear because fear involves [the expectation of divine] punishment, so the one who is afraid [of God’s judgment] is not perfected in love [has not grown into a sufficient understanding of God’s love].

Psalm 94:19
When my anxious thoughts multiply within me, Your comforts delight me.

Isaiah 41:10
Do not fear [anything], for I am with you; Do not be afraid, for I am your God. I will strengthen you, be assured I will help you; I will certainly take hold of you with My righteous right hand [a hand of justice, of power, of victory, of salvation].’

1 John 4:18
There is no fear in love. But perfect love drives out fear because fear has to do with punishment. The one who fears is not made perfect in love.

Deuteronomy 31:6
Be strong and courageous. Do not be afraid or terrified because of them, or the Lord your God goes with you; he will never leave you nor forsake you.

Psalm 23:4
Even though I walk through the darkest valley, I will fear no evil, for you are with me; your rod and your staff, they comfort me.

Psalm 56:3
When I am afraid, I will put my trust and faith in You.

Romans 15:13
May the God of hope fill you with all joy and peace as you trust in Him so that you may overflow with hope by the power of the Holy Spirit.

Lamentations 3:22-23
The steadfast love of the Lord never ceases; his mercies never come to an end; they are new every morning; great is your faithfulness.

Psalm 121:1-5
Therefore we do not lose heart. Though outwardly we are wasting away, yet inwardly we are being renewed day by day. For our light and momentary troubles are achieving for us an eternal glory that far outweighs them all. So we fix our eyes not on what is seen, but on what is unseen since what is seen is, but what is unseen is eternal.

John 14:27
Peace I leave with you; My [perfect] peace I give to you; not as the world gives do I give to you. Do not let your heart be troubled, nor let it be afraid. [Let My perfect peace calm you in every circumstance and give you courage and strength for every challenge.]

Philippians 4:13
I can do all things through him who strengthens me.

2 Timothy 1:7
 For God did not give us a spirit of timidity or cowardice or fear, but [He has given us a spirit] of power and of love and of sound judgment and personal discipline [abilities that result in a calm, well-balanced mind, and self-control].

1 Peter 5:6-7
Therefore humble yourselves under the mighty hand of God [set aside self-righteous pride], so that He may exalt you [to a place of honor in His service] at the appropriate time, casting all your cares [all your anxieties, all your worries, and all your concerns, once and for all] on Him, for He cares about you [with deepest affection, and watches over you very carefully].

Zephaniah 3:17
The Lord your God is in your midst, A Warrior who saves. He will rejoice over you with joy; He will be quiet in His love [making no mention of your past sins], He will rejoice over you with shouts of joy.

Romans 8:38-39
For I am convinced [and continue to be convinced—beyond any doubt] that neither death, nor life, nor angels, nor principalities, nor things present and threatening, nor things to come, nor powers, nor height, nor depth, nor any other created thing, will be able to separate us from the [unlimited] love of God, which is in Christ Jesus our Lord.

Psalm 34:4
I sought the Lord [on the authority of His word], and He answered me, And delivered me from all my fears.

Psalm 46:1
God is our refuge and strength [mighty and impenetrable], A very present and well-proved help in trouble.

What we’ve listed above is a collection of Bible verses that can help us stay strong during hard times. These may give you the inspiration or reminder to stay strong in your faith. Remember, God’s love will empower us to overcome anything we can face in this life.

Global Disciples Canada is a Christian mission organization that trains local leaders living near least-reached communities to multiply disciples for Christ. One-third of our world hasn’t heard the Good News of Jesus. Yet. Global Disciples refers to these as “least-reached” people, and fewer than 10% of all missionaries work among these groups. We live in a time where many of these people are within reach of a local church. Through our simple and effective strategy of training and coaching, believers share the Gospel in their own nations and cultures. Jesus said, “Go and make disciples of all nations,” and we’re committed to doing just that. If you are looking for a Christian mission organization to partner with to become a better disciple and help make disciples, connect with us today!

Christians know that reading and meditating on God’s Word is vital to our spiritual growth and relationship with The Lord.

All Scripture is God-breathed [given by divine inspiration] and is profitable for instruction, for conviction [of sin], for correction [of error and restoration to obedience], for training in righteousness [learning to live in conformity to God’s will, both publicly and privately—behaving honorably with personal integrity and moral courage]; so that the man of God may be complete and proficient, outfitted and thoroughly equipped for every good work.
– 2 Timothy 3:16-17

Did you know that a Bible reading checklist can provide a valuable resource, guiding your reading and helping your scripture study?

The Bible offers wisdom, to go through life’s challenges and grow closer to God. In fact, to truly benefit from Scripture study, however, it is crucial to approach it with intention.

This Bible reading checklist is designed to assist you in systematically exploring the Scriptures in full. This guide provides a structure for you to follow in your daily devotions. It covers a variety of topics and themes. Consequently, as you journey through the Bible with this checklist, you will gain fresh insight and foster spiritual growth.

Why not join us at Global Disciples Canada, not only in studying the Word but also in living it out? We want to fulfill the Great Commission and reach the least-reached with the Good News of Jesus Christ.

Before diving into the Bible reading checklist, it’s essential to lay the groundwork for enriching and intentional Scripture study. Consider incorporating the following practices to help create a conducive environment for engaging with God’s Word:

1. Find a quiet space: Choose a place where you can read and reflect without distractions. A quiet environment will help you focus on the Scriptures and foster deeper meditation on their meaning.

2. Set aside dedicated time: It’s crucial to devote regular, structured time to reading the Bible. Determine a specific time each day for your Scripture study and stick to it as consistently as possible.

3. Pray for guidance: Before beginning each Bible study session, spend a few moments in prayer. Ask the Holy Spirit to guide your reading and illuminate your understanding of the Scriptures. This act of humility and dependence on God will help you understand the insights He wants to share with you.

To make the most of your Bible reading checklist, consider these strategies for a well-rounded and effective Scripture study experience:

1. Read in context: It’s essential to read biblical passages within their broader context to avoid misunderstanding or misinterpreting the message. Be mindful of the historical, cultural, and literary context of each book in the Bible. Context is crucial to interpreting scripture helpfully.

2. Take notes: Keep a journal or notebook to jot down your reflections, questions, and insights as you read. Writing your thoughts can help clarify your understanding, remember key points, and reference past insights for future study.

3. Study with others: Engage in group Bible study or join a small group or Bible study class at your local church. Studying with others will provide diverse perspectives and foster a deeper understanding of the Scriptures, enriching your personal Scripture study efforts.

Now, let’s explore the comprehensive Bible reading checklist to guide your journey through God’s Word. Our proposed checklist is divided into sections that cover different topics and themes of the Bible, ensuring a diverse and encompassing study of Scripture.

The New Testament offers a detailed account of the life, ministry, death, and resurrection of Jesus Christ. As you journey through the New Testament, pay close attention to Jesus’ teachings, parables, and miracles. Understand the deeper meaning and relevance for your personal walk of faith. Our recommended reading plan includes:

1. The Gospels: Read each Gospel (Matthew, Mark, Luke, and John) in its entirety, taking note of the unique perspectives and insights provided by each author. Observe how Jesus interacts with different people and the lessons He imparts throughout His ministry.

2. The Acts of the Apostles: Explore the growth and expansion of the early church, witnessing the work of the Holy Spirit and the missionary journeys of Paul and other apostles. Reflect upon the foundations of the Christian faith and the importance of community and fellowship.

3. The Epistles: Study the various letters written by Paul, Peter, John, James, and Jude, paying attention to their guidance, encouragement, and admonishment for early Christian communities. Consider how these teachings apply to your personal faith and your local church.

4. The Book of Revelation: Delve into the final book of the New Testament, examining the prophecies, visions, and messages contained within. Reflect upon the ultimate victory of God over evil and the hope we have in Christ’s return.

The Old Testament provides the historical, cultural, and theological foundations for the Christian faith. As you journey through these ancient texts, seek to uncover the timeless truths and enduring lessons contained within. Our recommended reading plan includes:

1. The Pentateuch: Read the first five books of the Bible (Genesis, Exodus, Leviticus, Numbers, and Deuteronomy), which detail the creation, the fall, the patriarchs, the exodus from Egypt, and the establishment of Israel. Reflect upon God’s promises, covenant, and guidance for His chosen people.

2. The Historical Books: Explore the history of Israel through the books of Joshua, Judges, Ruth, 1 and 2 Samuel, 1 and 2 Kings, 1 and 2 Chronicles, Ezra, Nehemiah, and Esther. Observe the cycles of obedience, disobedience, and restoration, as well as God’s faithfulness to His people.

3. The Poetic and Wisdom Literature: Discover the beauty, wisdom, and depth of the Hebrew Scriptures in the books of Job, Psalms, Proverbs, Ecclesiastes, and Song of Solomon. Reflect upon the poetic expressions of faith, worship, and human experience found within these texts.

4. The Prophets: Study the prophetic writings of Isaiah, Jeremiah, Lamentations, Ezekiel, Daniel, Hosea, Joel, Amos, Obadiah, Jonah, Micah, Nahum, Habakkuk, Zephaniah, Haggai, Zechariah, and Malachi. Consider the messages of judgment, hope, and restoration conveyed by these ancient messengers of God.

To deepen your comprehension and appreciation of the Bible, consider incorporating various study supplements to enrich your Scripture reading experience. Here are some suggestions:

1. Bible Commentary: Utilize Bible commentaries to provide expert insights, historical context, and application of Scripture to enhance your understanding of the text.

2. Bible Dictionary: Enrich your comprehension of biblical terms, places, and people by consulting a Bible dictionary as you read through the Scriptures.

3. Topical Bible: Use a topical Bible to explore specific themes, subjects, or characters throughout both the Old and New Testaments.

4. Online Resources and Apps: Engage with digital platforms and Bible study apps that offer reading plans, study notes, and other resources to help you navigate and understand the Bible.

By embracing the Bible reading checklist and making Scripture study a priority in your daily life, you create a transformational habit. As you immerse yourself in God’s Word and apply its lessons to your life, you will witness the incredible impact of Scripture on your spiritual growth, relationships, and personal well-being.

1. Reflect and Apply: As you read through the Bible, continually ask yourself how the Scriptures apply to your life, relationships, and circumstances. Seek to live out the truths and principles found within the Word, allowing it to shape your character, decisions, and interactions with others.

2. Share Your Insights: Engage in conversations with others about your Scripture readings, sharing your insights, questions, and discoveries as you journey through the Bible. This fosters fellowship, accountability, and mutual encouragement in your walk with Christ.

The Bible reading checklist offers a valuable guide for immersing yourself in the richness and depth of God’s Word. As you journey through the Scriptures, you will gain fresh insights, and deeper understanding, and learn about what it means to be a disciple of Jesus. Take the time to commit to this daily practice, and experience firsthand the transformative power of God’s Word as you partner with Global Disciples Canada in fulfilling the Great Commission.

Global Disciples Canada is a Christian mission organization that trains local leaders living near to reach least-reached communities to multiply disciples for Christ. One third of our world hasn’t heard the Good News of Jesus. Yet, Global Disciples refers to these as “least-reached” people, and fewer than 10% of all missionaries work among these groups. We live in a time where many of these people are within reach of a local church. Through our simple and effective strategy of training and coaching, believers share the Gospel in their own nations and cultures. Jesus said, “Go and make disciples of all nations,” and we’re committed to doing just that. If you are looking for a Christian mission organization to partner with to become a better disciple and help make disciples, connect with us today!

The Call is to live as a passionate disciple of Jesus. Jesus wants to use each one of His followers to go and make disciples of every nation.

Jesus came up and said to them, “All authority (all power of absolute rule) in heaven and on earth has been given to Me. Go therefore and make disciples of all the nations [help the people to learn of Me, believe in Me, and obey My words], baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit, teaching them to observe everything that I have commanded you; and lo, I am with you always [remaining with you perpetually—regardless of circumstance, and on every occasion], even to the end of the age.” – Matthew 28:18-20

It is no coincidence that you are reading this and that God called you to live a life of significance.

God made you with a purpose. If you let him He will transform you and use you to share His love with others.

You are here to make disciples who will go and make disciples until everyone has heard the Good News.

The transforming love of Jesus is good news for our broken world.

This Good News is for everyone, and yet over two billion people have still never heard it. Others have never understood, still held captive by various forms of evil in a broken world. What is God doing about it?  How will He turn an upside-down-world right-side-up? Only the transforming love of Jesus can heal our broken world and set the captives free.

God is longing for a restored relationship with every person. 

 He chose us in Christ [actually selected us for Himself as His own] before the foundation of the world, so that we would be holy [that is, consecrated, set apart for Him, purpose-driven] and blameless in His sight. In love He predestined and lovingly planned for us to be adopted to Himself as [His own] children through Jesus Christ, in accordance with the kind intention and good pleasure of His will. – Ephesians 1:4-5

He has created each one in His image and likeness. And has sent His own son, Jesus, to redeem and restore all creation. The death and resurrection of Jesus marks the tipping point in human history. Evil has been defeated, love will win, and a new world is on its way.  It is imperative that people from every tribe and every nation have an opportunity to hear this Good News.

But all these things are from God, who reconciled us to Himself through Christ [making us acceptable to Him] and gave us the ministry of reconciliation [so that by our example we might bring others to Him], that is, that God was in Christ reconciling the world to Himself, not counting people’s sins against them [but canceling them]. 
– 2 Corinthians 5:18-19

But how will this happen? 

It is only possible through His disciples who take their responsibility seriously to go and make disciples (Matthew 28:19-20).

Fulfilling the Great Commission, means the healing of our broken world will take place from the inside out. As the love of Jesus brings reconciliation to individuals, then families, communities, and the world.

Jesus spent three years with a core group of a dozen people. He taught them to love, live and serve like Him. God’s strategy is to redeem the broken world through His disciple. These disciples make more disciples and forming new fellowships of believers until the whole world knows.

That is the call on the life of every Christian, and this is the training we provide at Global Disciples. The commitment of every believer is to go and make disciples and plant churches. This should be among every ethnic group so that all nations have the opportunity to hear the Gospel.

An incredible privilege to be involved in ensuring that everyone has the possibility to experience grace, freedom, and transformation. We are all called to do our part so that Christ’s redeeming love will touch the lives of our neighbors and bring healing in this world.

This is not the work of one church, denomination, or nation. 

It is an assignment for every disciple from every nation to work together in unity so the entire world will know Jesus. At Global Disciples, we call every follower of Christ from every nation and denomination to live as global disciples of Jesus by making the following commitment:

Being united by the Spirit of the Lord, I want to live as a global disciple of Jesus.  My allegiance is to Jesus Christ; He is the Living Word of God, as revealed by the Holy Spirit and through the Bible. I want to fellowship with His disciples all over the world and work to tell every nation about Him.

We are not disciples of Global Disciples, we are disciples of Christ. And as such, we should be able to answer “yes” to two simple questions.

One, are we part of active fellowships of believers who are discipling us to love like Jesus? And two, are we making disciples by investing in the lives of others? This is our commission as followers of Jesus.

The Kingdom of God is growing as never before, and the love of Jesus is changing everything.

Global Disciples’ simple multiplication strategy of teaching disciples how to make disciples and plant reproducible fellowships of believers is being used around the world and is changing everything.

Churches are being planted all over Africa, Asia, and Latin America; they are active and flourishing even in closed Muslim countries; leaders are teaching church planters how to start small businesses so as to have the resources they need to plant new churches and minister in their communities. In our generation, we hope to see the church planting movement taking place in every country around the world.

Global Disciples Canada is a Christian mission organization that trains local leaders living near least-reached communities to multiply disciples for Christ. One-third of our world hasn’t heard the Good News of Jesus. Yet. Global Disciples refers to these as “least-reached” people, and fewer than 10% of all missionaries work among these groups. We live in a time where many of these people are within reach of a local church. Through our simple and effective strategy of training and coaching, believers share the Gospel in their own nations and cultures. Jesus said, “Go and make disciples of all nations,” and we’re committed to doing just that. If you are looking for a Christian mission organization to partner with to become a better disciple and help make disciples, connect with us today!

It is a question that possibly every person struggles with at some point in their lifetime: why am I here on Earth? Going much further than answering what career I should do, knowing my purpose on Earth is about determining what I’m supposed to do with my life, which organizations and people should benefit from my time, and how I can be of that benefit to them.

The best news of all: having Jesus Christ in our lives helps us to discover the answer to these questions. Without God in our lives, we live for today and have no regard for what happens after we die. With Christ in our lives, we know that our purpose here on Earth directly relates to our eternal future, as well as the future of everyone around us. This means that, with the guidance of the Holy Spirit, our obedience to Him can provide eternal benefit to ourselves and others. 

This does not mean that we are responsible for what others decide about their future. We cannot control other people, we are only to be a mouthpiece for the Kingdom of God. We share the good news with others and pray for them. How the hearer decides to respond is their choice.

In today’s article, let’s explore what the Bible says about your purpose.

The Bible is full of references to God’s plan and purpose for our lives. It tells us that we were created for a purpose. “For we are His workmanship, created in Christ Jesus for good works, which God prepared beforehand that we should walk in them.” Ephesians 2:10. We were not an accident or an afterthought. God had a plan for our lives before we were even born.

We see throughout the Bible that God is always working for our good. “And we know that for those who love God all things work together for good, for those who are called according to His purpose.” Romans 8:28. No matter what happens in our lives, we can trust that God is working everything out for our good.

The Bible is clear that our ultimate purpose in life is to glorify God. “Whether therefore ye eat, or drink, or whatsoever ye do, do all to the glory of God.” 1 Corinthians 10:31. We are to live our lives in a way that brings honour and glory to God.

When we live purposefully, we can be confident that we are doing what God has called us to do. And when we do that, we know that He will be with us every step.

Exploring the Bible to learn about your purpose can be an exciting and insightful journey throughout your life. If you feel overwhelmed by the thousand plus pages, here are a few tips to help you get started:

Before you even begin reading, take some time to pray and ask God to reveal His purpose for your life. He knows what you are capable of and what He has called you to do, so ask for His guidance in finding your purpose in the Bible.

The book of Genesis is a great place to start when looking for your purpose in the Bible. It tells the story of creation and how God designed each of us for a specific purpose. As you read, look for clues about your specific purpose.

God has given each of us unique talents and gifts. As you read the Bible, consider how your unique talents and gifts might be used to further His purposes.

Don’t be afraid to ask questions as you read the Bible. Ask a trusted friend or pastor for help if you’re unsure what something means. The more you understand the Bible, the easier it will be to find your purpose within it.

Finding your purpose in the Bible may not happen overnight. Be patient and trust that God will reveal His plan for your life in His perfect timing.

When we write down our discoveries, it helps us when we forget what we learned – we can just go back to the notes we made and remind ourselves! Having a small notebook that can be stored between the pages of your Bible is a convenient way to have your previous notes ready as you continue to read. If you are okay with writing on the pages of your Bible, you can even underline important verses, circle key facts, and write notes in the margins of your Bible.

As you continue reading through the Bible, you will start to find that verses repeat themselves and similar themes continue to appear. This is because, even though the 66 books of the Bible are written by many different people over thousands of years, they’re all inspired by the one true God. It can be one of the most exciting experiences to discover these similarities from different people, centuries apart. Discovering these similar themes help to refine our purpose in life.

How can you find your purpose in the Bible?

The Bible is full of stories of people who found their purpose through their relationship with God. Abraham, Moses, David, and Paul are just a few examples.

When you read the Bible, you’ll notice that each individual had a unique calling from God. And while their stories are different, there are some common themes.

First, you’ll notice that each had a personal encounter with God. This is where it all starts. To find your purpose in life, you need to start by seeking a personal relationship with God.

Second, you’ll notice that most were willing to obey God, even when it was difficult. They didn’t always understand why God asked them to do something, but they trusted He had a plan.

Third, you’ll notice that God used them to do something great. They may not have always seen the big picture, but God had a plan for their lives. And as they followed Him, they were able to accomplish His purposes.

The Bible is a great place to start if you want to find your purpose in life. Read the stories of those who have gone before you, and let them inspire you to seek a personal relationship with God. Be willing to obey Him, even when you don’t understand His plan. And trust that He has a purpose for your life.

The Bible contains verses encouraging and inspiring us as we seek God’s purpose for our lives. Here are some scriptures to read if you are seeking guidance and clarity on your life’s path:

Proverbs 3:5-6 – “Trust in the Lord with all your heart and lean not on your understanding; In all your ways acknowledge Him, and He will make your paths straight.”

Psalm 27:14 – “Wait for the Lord; be strong and take heart and wait for the Lord.”

Isaiah 40:31 – “But those who hope in the Lord will renew their strength. They will soar on wings like eagles; they will run and not grow weary; they will walk and not be faint.”

These are just a few verses in the Bible that can give us direction and hope as we seek God’s purpose for our lives. No matter what you face, God has a plan for you and wants to use you for His glory. Trust in Him and lean on His Word for guidance and strength.

The Bible is the ultimate guide to our purpose in life. It can provide direction and comfort when faced with difficult choices and help us understand life’s meaning. By reading and studying the Bible, we can better understand God’s plan for us and how we can best live our lives.

Global Disciples Canada is a Christian mission organization that trains local leaders living near to reach least-reached communities to multiply disciples for Christ. One-third of our world hasn’t heard the Good News of Jesus. 

Yet, Global Disciples refers to these as “least-reached” people, and fewer than 10% of all missionaries work among these groups. We live in a time where many of these people are within reach of a local church. 

Through our simple and effective training and coaching strategy, believers share the Gospel in their nations and cultures. Jesus said, “Go and make disciples of all nations,” and we’re committed to doing just that. If you are looking for a Christian mission organization to partner with to become a better disciple and help make disciples, connect with us today and become a Christian missionary!

God has a beautiful strategy for reaching the world through multiplying churches.

The ultimate goal of all disciple-making and leadership development to planting churches that multiply.

We can better understand the biblical mandate of planting fellowships of disciples that multiply themselves by exploring the following;

When we study the New Testament churches, we learn some key principles. We should use to plant reproducing fellowships anywhere.

Let’s look at seven steps that any fellowship of disciples can implement anywhere in the world.

Prayer is of vital importance and is the first priority in multiplying churches. When we pray, God will open closed doors. Prayer first of all moves our hearts and puts our desires in line with God’s desires. When God opens our eyes to see the lost state of our communities, we will be moved with compassion to open our homes so as to start new fellowships. If we are willing, God is able to fill us with His Spirit for His glory.

Prayer also is instrumental in raising up the workers that are needed. (John 17:20; John 20:21; Acts 1:14; Acts 4:31; Acts 11:5; Acts 14:23; Colossians 4:3-4).

Jesus Himself commands us to “ask the Lord of the harvest, therefore, to send out workers into his harvest field” (Matthew 9:38).

The leading of the Holy Spirit in choosing and equipping church planters is very important (Acts 13:2).

Prayer provides direction so God can show us where He is at work. And where He wants us to be involved.

In his strategy, Paul had a plan to reach the Jews and the Gentiles. But his plans were sometimes changed by the Spirit of God. He was very sensitive to the leading of the Spirit and was willing to change his own plans to follow the plans of God (Acts 11:27-30; Acts 13:1-3; Acts 16:6-10; Acts 8:9-10).

Paul was very open to the Spirit—that is why he said, “But I will come to you very soon, if the Lord is willing, God willing I will come to you” (1 Corinthians 4:19). We also need to pray so that we know God’s plan.   

After prayer has confirmed the place where God wants you to be involved. Why not do a survey and study the target people and the area.

It is very important to know the culture (language, customs, religion, social structure) of the people.

Prayer walks, literature distribution, film shows, small business development, and music may help in establishing contacts and finding the “man of peace”—the families or the communities in the area who are receptive to you and the Spirit (Mark 6:10-11). This will help in strategic discernment and effective approaches to the community by identifying the spiritual battleground and the responsiveness of the people groups.

In the Old Testament, Moses sent 12 leaders to do a survey of the land that God had promised to give them (Numbers 13:17-20).

After Moses passed away, Joshua also did a similar thing by sending leaders to do a survey of Jericho.

Jesus likewise sent His disciples ahead of Him to prepare the way (Luke 10:1).

As you survey a region, prayerfully respond to the following questions:

What locations are most strategic?

Paul’s whole strategy was to plant churches in major towns. Paul went into big cities of a region (Acts 16:9-12; Acts 18:1, Acts 18:18-22; Acts 19:1-10) and planted churches in those strategic cities.

Paul recognized that the way to most permanently influence a country was by planting vibrant churches in strategic cities. Once he had accom­plished this, he moved on, knowing that the rest would follow. That is why he said that he had “fully preached” the Gospel in a re­gion and that he had “no more place . . . to work in these regions” (Romans 15:19, Romans 15:23).

This, however, does not imply that it is wrong to plant a church in a smaller town or village if that is clearly God’s direction. It is critical to seek God’s direction.

Consider whether it is possible to send someone as a church planter or if another method is needed. Perhaps a small business is a good way to gain an entrance into this location. This is the reason that Global Disciples includes Small Business Development (SBD) training as part of our Multiplying Churches Strategy.

You may also recognize specific physical needs of a community which can be an open door to bringing the Gospel.

Try to discover who holds influence in the location you are trying to reach. These influencers may or may not hold positions of authority and may or may not be open to the Gospel (Acts 8:26-38; Acts 10; Acts 16). But if the key influencers can be reached first with the Gospel, a church can be established much more quickly.

Jesus talks about “the man of peace” (Luke 10:6) and encourages His disciples to work closely with this person. Prayerfully ask God to reveal these key people to you and your team.

Identify both the spiritual and cultural areas which will oppose the Gospel (Acts 17:5; Acts 19:24-34). Once identified, gather intercessors and start praying.

Planting and multiplying churches is the work that requires a team; it is not an individual effort. 

One person will not have all the gifting and skills to do all the different ministries that are needed to plant churches. Jesus, the Master church planter, sent His disciples out two by two (Luke 10:1).

Paul also took someone with him in his church planting ventures and, at various times, included many on his team over his years of ministry—Barnabas, John Mark, Titus, Silas, Timothy, Priscilla, Aquila (Acts 15:40; Acts 16:1; Acts 18:18; Romans 12:6-9; 1 Corinthians 12:28; Galatians 6:6; Ephesians 4:11; 1 Corinthians 16:15- 16). In the same way, if we want to reach the least-reached peoples, we need to form a strategic church planting team.

The team will certainly include those whom God has specifically called to take the Gospel to new areas. While it is the responsibility of every believer to witness in their community, there are those who have the ability and call to go out to new areas. 

For example, Paul and Barnabas were set apart by the Holy Spirit from the church at Antioch (Acts 13:1-3); the church leaders prayed for them and commissioned them to go and multiply churches where there was no witness for Christ.

The team will not only include those who go but also persons committed to pray and support the church planting effort.

To multiply churches, we should identify ourselves with the communities we want to reach by establishing a presence among them.

Jesus came and lived among those He was trying to reach. Paul also identified himself quickly with those he tried to reach; he became a servant to all to save them by sacrificing his comfort (1 Corinthians 9:19-23). In Athens, he talked about the “unknown God” (Acts 17:22-24)—he contextualized the Gospel according to the place and culture.

When we live and identify with the people we plan to reach, joining with them in their joys and sorrows, it builds trust. It also calls for sacrifice, and we must often lay down our own preferences to reach others with the Gospel—especially if we are across cultures. If we go to reach a vegetarian community, be a vegetarian to identify with them!

Again, in many locations, business is a great way to establish a presence in a community. A business opens doors and builds relationships with many people in a community (Acts 18:1-4). If you are sending out a church planter, consider funding the startup cost of a small business instead of long-term monthly support.

As you establish a presence in a community, continue to look for the “person of peace” whom God has prepared for the message. In most communities, the family head will be a key influencer. It is worth the special effort of a church planter to focus on these persons. 

Prayerfully look for people who will willingly give their lives to follow Christ. Be alert to the many ways in which God may call people to Himself. This may happen simply as you live among them and represent Jesus to them. If you’re using a business, they may see a difference in the way that you treat them or your willingness to pray for them in the name of Jesus.

In some contexts, you may use literature, door-to-door evangelism methods, film showings. You may find that people are open to study the Bible with you.

Some have found it helpful to begin studying Scripture from the account of Creation and slowly work through the Old Testament before coming to the New Testament stories of Jesus. This may take much time, but it can be a very effective way of teaching people the heart of God.

Consider appropriate use of technology as well—cell phones, Facebook, Instagram, and satellite television are all ways that God can use to speak to people. Again, the context of the culture will help to shape the method you use.

The New Testament evangelism method was focused on reaching the entire family by reaching the family heads. Targeting family leaders who would bring their whole households to Christ is the most strategic and fruitful way to plant churches in least-reached areas. There are many biblical examples of this—Peter, who preached to the household of Cornelius (Acts 10); Paul, who preached to Lydia with all members of her household (Acts 16:14-15) as well as to the Philippian jailer (Acts 16:31-33); the households of Stephen, Philemon, and others as well that were won over (1 Corinthians 1:16; Philemon 2; 2 Timothy 1:16).  As they won the head of the house, they brought their whole family, and churches were established.

Wherever Paul went and met people who were hungry for salvation, he preached the Gospel and baptized those who gave their lives to follow Christ.

Jesus commanded us to “go and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit, and teaching them to obey everything I have commanded you” (Matthew 28:19).

As soon as people give their lives to the Lordship of Jesus, teach them to renounce any old ways of living—idol worship, evil spirits, practices of magic and witchcraft, immoral practices—and pray for their deliverance. This is the right time to instruct them to live lives of discipleship.

There is no need to hurry to baptize them before they make the right decision (Acts 2:38-40). In some contexts, it may be wise to wait until several people or a group of people are ready for baptism together.  

After baptism, instruct them to devote themselves to the studying and teaching of the Word of God, to prayer, to fellowship, to breaking bread together, and to serving their world.

Jesus, the master builder of His Church, called, trained, and sent people very specifically to build His own Church (Mark 3:13-15).

The apostles did what they saw Jesus doing. Following in the footsteps of Jesus, we need to give priority to training and appointing leaders who will take care of the established fellowships and continue to reproduce churches. Selection and training of the leaders can be done according to the personal gifting and calling of individuals.

Paul chose leaders to be in charge of the fellowships which he planted (1 Corinthians 1:14-16; Acts 18:8). Paul also visited the churches he planted to encourage, strengthen, and correct them (Acts 15:36; Acts 14:21-23; Acts 16:1-5; Acts 18:23; Acts 20:1-2; 1 Thessalonians 3:10; 1 Corinthians 16:5-7; 2 Corinthians 13:9-10). Writing epistles was also a part of his follow-up work.

In some places he spent more time to equip the disciples. For example, he spent one and half years in Corinth (Acts 18:11) and three years in Ephesus (Acts 20:31) teaching on the word of God. In the same way, we also need to give attention to the churches planted. 

Unless the church we plant takes the responsibility of reaching others and planting reproducing fellowships of disciples, we have not completed our work.

Paul equipped and appointed leaders to continue the multiplication of churches in their region. Specifically, he told Titus to, “appoint elders in every town” (Titus 1:5).

We need to train every member of the newly established church to share their faith with others and to make disciples. During this process, many of them will grow as disciples who will go and make disciples and plant churches. This kind of multiplying churches will become a church-planting movement that continues to multiply churches.

You’ve got a vital part to play!

Global Disciples Canada is a Christian mission organization that trains local leaders living near least-reached communities to multiply disciples for Christ. One-third of our world hasn’t heard the Good News of Jesus. Yet. Global Disciples refers to these as “least-reached” people, and fewer than 10% of all missionaries work among these groups. We live in a time where many of these people are within reach of a local church. Through our simple and effective strategy of training and coaching, believers share the Gospel in their own nations and cultures. Jesus said, “Go and make disciples of all nations,” and we’re committed to doing just that. If you are looking for a Christian mission organization to partner with to become a better disciple and help make disciples, connect with us today!

Explore the unique approach of grief counseling form a Christian perspective, providing support, comfort, and hope to those experiencing loss.

Grief, a natural and inevitable part of life, can leave us feeling overwhelmed, lost, and broken-hearted. In these times of pain and despair, we often search for guidance, support, and a sense of meaning. Christian grief counseling offers a distinct approach. It blends professional therapeutic techniques with the comforting truths of Scripture. It offers hope and healing for those navigating the complex emotions during the bereavement process.

In this 1000-word article, we will discuss the value and benefits of grief counseling from a Christian perspective. We will also examine the principles driving Christian grief counseling. We’ll explore the critically important role faith plays in healing and moving forward. Furthermore, we will discuss how organizations like Global Disciples Canada contribute to the spiritual well-being of grieving individuals. They provide valuable resources and support grounded in Christian faith and values.

Grief is a universal human experience. And a Christian perspective on loss acknowledges that bereavement is also a significant spiritual journey. Grieving individuals face doubts, questions, and faith-testing experiences. Eventually, they can lead to spiritual growth and a deeper trust in God. Key biblical passages provide insight and guidance in understanding grief through a Christian lens:

Christian grief counseling combines evidence-based therapeutic techniques with biblical principles and spiritual guidance. This unique approach aims at addressing the emotional, psychological, and spiritual needs of grieving individuals. Key components of Christian grief counseling include:

There are essential distinctions in the foundational beliefs and goals underlying each approach.

For individuals with a firm faith in Christ, Christian grief counseling can offer several unique benefits during the grieving process:

Global Disciples Canada is a Christian mission organization that trains local leaders living near to reach least-reached communities to multiply disciples for Christ. One third of our world hasn’t heard the Good News of Jesus. Yet, Global Disciples refers to these as “least-reached” people, and fewer than 10% of all missionaries work among these groups. We live in a time where many of these people are within reach of a local church. Through our simple and effective strategy of training and coaching, believers share the Gospel in their own nations and cultures. Jesus said, “Go and make disciples of all nations,” and we’re committed to doing just that. If you are looking for a Christian mission organization to partner with to become a better disciple and help make disciples, connect with us today!

Christian grief counseling provides a unique and holistic approach to support those experiencing loss, weaving together professional therapeutic techniques and timeless biblical principles. By focusing on spiritual, emotional, and psychological well-being, this integrative method offers solace, guidance, and hope for individuals navigating complex grief and its related challenges.

If you are seeking support and guidance in dealing with grief, Global Disciples Canada is here to help. As a Christian mission organization, we are committed to equipping and empowering believers to care for one another in the spirit of Christ’s love. By connecting with us, you can access resources and support to help you find healing and hope in the midst of grief. Join us on the path toward wholeness, deepen your faith, and walk alongside fellow believers who understand your struggles. Contact us today to learn more about our grief counseling services and how we can help you embrace God’s healing presence and transformative power.

God has a beautiful strategy for reaching the world through multiplying churches.

The ultimate goal of all disciple-making and leadership development to planting churches. These churches should then multiply as a means to reach those who have yet to hear the Gospel in our world.

We can better understand the biblical mandate of planting fellowships of disciples that multiply themselves by exploring the following;

We have seen the importance of planting multiplying churches to fulfill the Great Commission. However, this multiplication involves many challenges.

A major obstacle to church multiplication is a wrong definition of the Church.

We often think of the Church as a building with a trained, professional pastor in charge. It requires a lot of time and energy to build buildings and develop professional leadership. This view of the church does not allow for rapid multiplication.

But when we search the New Testament, we do not find anything about a church building. Or even trained pastors or church planters!

Jesus and His first disciples didn’t model this kind of a church.

Jesus met and discipled His first disciples in homes and on the mountains (Matthew 5:1; Matthew 9:10-11; Matthew 11:1; Matthew 13:36; Matthew 14:18-19; Matthew 26:18; Mark 2:1-4; Mark 3:20; Mark 6:7-13; John 6:3; Acts 5:42; Acts 12:12; Acts 4:13).

He prayerfully appointed ordinary and uneducated disciples to take the Gospel to the ends of the earth. These ordinary, uneducated disciples turned the world upside down with the Gospel message.

Historically, for the first 300 years of the existence of the Church, there was rapid multiplication with very little formal structure.

Every disciple was a disciple-maker and the Church was a simple gathering of people who followed and worshiped Jesus. They met in homes or common places and experienced much persecution.

But the impact of their lives changed the world.

By 313 A.D., the Roman emperor Constantine won a military victory which he attributed to Christianity. Following this, he stopped the persecution of Christianity and, with time, Christianity became the official state religion.

No longer were Christians persecuted—rather, everyone was encouraged to become Christian. With official recognition from the state, the Church quickly developed as an institution. This included buildings, special privileges for clergy, promotion of Christians to high-ranking offices, etc.

This was a radical change for the Church and was, in many ways, a great victory for Christianity. However, it unintentionally changed the nature of the Church.  It became more of an institution than a living and multiplying organism.

Much of our view of the Church today has historical roots in the transition that happened after 313 A.D.  We must understand that what has developed through history has hindered the multiplication of churches, and we should seek to rediscover God’s original intent for the Church.

This is not meant to minimize the importance of church buildings nor to criticize theological training for church leaders. But we must find ways to fulfill God’s plan for multiplication of His Church which has been His desire from the beginning of creation.

Another obstacle to church multiplication comes when the Church is presented as a foreign concept to the people we are trying to reach.

The message of the Gospel was designed by God to reach every culture and to shape every culture.

Unfortunately, when we take the Gospel to other nations, we contextualize it within our own cultural norms and understanding (Acts 17:16-32; 1 Corinthians 9:19-23). 

While it may be possible to reach a few people, a movement will never take root when the Church is perceived as something totally foreign.

Contextualizing the Gospel in the culture of the people we are reaching has biblical support. Jesus, the Master Church Planter, took on human form and became flesh to reach all humanity (John 1:14).

He came to the Jewish culture and He started preaching the Gospel in the temple instead of forming a new sect (Matthew 21:23; Matthew 26:55; Mark 12:35; Luke 2:46; Luke 19:47; John 8:20).

The same was true with the ministry of the disciples of Jesus and the early Church (Acts 2:46; Acts 3:1; Acts 17:23-31; 1 Corinthians 9:19-23).

As the Gospel began to cross into other cultures, the early Church began to realize that the expressions of Christianity be different for Gentiles than for themselves as Jews. The Jerusalem conference in Acts 15 was held to resolve this issue. It’s clear that we need to contextualize the Gospel, without compromising its truth, in the culture of the people we plan to reach.

Contextualization of the Gospel will utilize local resources as much as possible.

For example, if the houses in a village are made of wood and grasses, then trying to construct a brick building for worship will not fit. If a church building needs to be constructed, use materials that are common in that location. In a similar way, consider local preferences for music and style of worship instead of importing styles from another location.

Such contextualization will allow a new church to be easily reproducible and will promote multiplication. When other cultures’ traditions are imposed, dependency is created and church growth is hindered.

In one South Asian country, Christ Followers call themselves ‘Muslim followers of Isa’ so that it will help them to reach their own people in their own context. They believe in Jesus Christ as their Savior and Lord, believe in water baptism, share communion, and worship Allah, the Almighty God.

Is it right to ask them to call themselves Christians if it will hinder them from reaching their own people?  

Discipleship is one of the key factors to multiplying churches.

An authentic life of discipleship is marked by obedience to the teaching of Jesus (John 8:31); love for God and one another (Matthew 22:37-40; John 13:35); unity; and fruitfulness (John 15:8; John 17:20-23).

When genuine discipleship results in transformed lives, the Gospel spreads rapidly (Matthew 5:14-16).

When there is a lack of discipleship in the Church, it is a poor witness of our faith to our community. In many ways, since the time of Constantine the Church has struggled to be faithful in the area of discipleship; the focus has turned outward to buildings, structures, and titles.

But when we focus on making disciples to produce transformed lives, the multiplication of churches becomes natural because of the lives of the disciples of Jesus.

Many believers are content with the current state of the Church, and they spend most of their time and energy on maintenance rather than on growth.

They might ask, “Why do we need more churches?

We have plenty of needs right here.”

Some others might think that planting new churches will take people from already existing churches and will weaken the Church rather than strengthen it.

There are also some who might say that it is better to help the already existing churches that are struggling rather than to plant new churches.

These ideas and questions indicate a lack of vision for church multiplication (Mark 1:38-39; Matthew 28:19; Romans 15:23).

We need our hearts to be stirred by the current realities in the world. Consider these realities:

Reaching and delivering people out of the kingdom of darkness into the marvelous light of God’s Kingdom (1 Peter 2:9) exposes us to spiritual battle.

It involves encountering the activities of the territorial spirits, magicians, and witchdoctors while presenting the Gospel (Ephesians 6:10-18).

As we plan to plant multiplying churches, we must be aware of the work of the enemy who will strongly oppose any effort that brings people to Jesus (Acts 19:23-34, Acts 16:16-24; Acts 21:27-36).

He has blinded people for years (2 Corinthians 4:4) and will not easily allow them to see the truth.

We must be confident of our spiritual authority over the powers of darkness and recognize the presence of the King of kings and the Lord of lords. As we commit our lives to multiplying churches, the Lord will confirm His words through miracles, signs, and wonders (Mark 16:15-20).

What are some of the greatest challenges in your context to plant churches?

You’ve got an incredibly vital part to play!

Global Disciples Canada is a Christian mission organization that trains local leaders living near least-reached communities to multiply disciples for Christ. One-third of our world hasn’t heard the Good News of Jesus. Yet. Global Disciples refers to these as “least-reached” people, and fewer than 10% of all missionaries work among these groups. We live in a time where many of these people are within reach of a local church. Through our simple and effective strategy of training and coaching, believers share the Gospel in their own nations and cultures. Jesus said, “Go and make disciples of all nations,” and we’re committed to doing just that. If you are looking for a Christian mission organization to partner with to become a better disciple and help make disciples, connect with us today!