When The Holy Spirit moves He changes us! Discover how a struggling church leader in Uganda, became a disciple-making disciple.

“Before I came to the Global Disciples Directors training, my personal relationship with God was not all that healthy,” Achi said, describing his spiritual state a few years ago.

“I was filled with questions about God and about myself. I was like a hunter, wondering where to go next after a lot of struggles.”

Achi, a church leader in Uganda, was struggling.

He said, “My life was full of emotions from family issues, frustrations, and the torture of trusting in myself. I rarely prayed, and when I did, I was not focused…I only prayed because everyone else was praying,”

As Achi attended the Global Disciples Directors Training, it struck a chord in his searching heart. “God changed my whole life to become a testimony for others to come and see,” he said.

The Directors Training equips believers like Achi in the core components of being a disciple of Jesus, so they can train others to be a disciple-making disciples. The Holy Spirit often works in these sessions to touch the directors first, empowering them to train from experience as well as study.

Achi found his life remade by the Holy Spirit. The session on Intimacy with God provided the foundation. He said, “My relationship with God has improved to be a beautiful thing. I have a reason to seek God and to hunger for more. He has made me a missionary and has become my purpose in life.”

Lessons on Holy Spirit Empowerment and Developing Christ-like Relationships also impacted Achi’s family relationships and his commitment to the mission of the Gospel. He relates, “God has given me the ability to stay in harder places, far from home, and to be comfortable there on mission.”

It’s meant a radical change for his family. Last year God directed them to move to a new community for further outreach. His children changed schools, and his family is adapting to a new culture and language, but Achi says, “We are happy to see God directing our lives each day.”

Achi’s renewed relationship with the Lord is bearing fruit in those he has trained as disciple-makers—they’ve already planted six churches! Phineas, one young trainee, is a great help, actively involved in outreach, and has assisted in planting another four churches.

Achi reports another transformation as he shares the core components with local churches. “We are seeing unity in the churches in our area. The teachings on Intimacy with God, Holy Spirit empowerment, and Christ-like Relationships have helped us to resolve conflict in the church and in the community since they call for peace and reconciliation between man and God.”

Change in one heart is spilling into the lives of others and in churches and the community. No wonder Achi rejoices, “I want to thank God for calling me to serve through teaching others His Word. And we will use these components to build and restore God’s people back to God.”

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!

What do we mean by the Kingdom of God, and how does it relate to the Church?

What is our identity, our place, and our part in the Church?

We can understand what the Kingdom of God is and how it relates to the Church by exploring the following;

There are various functions/ministries within the Church just as the parts of the body have different functions. All of these parts are necessary to fulfill the three-fold ministry of the Church.

We worship the Lord by offering our bodies as living, holy, and acceptable sacrifices to God. We worship the Lord in the beauty of his holiness. And we worship him in truth and spirit.

The Church is called to have close fellowship with each other—loving each other with a sincere heart and taking care of each other’s needs. Love is the main factor that binds the whole body together.

Jesus sent His disciples to go out and preach the Gospel of the Kingdom of God to each and every person on the face of the earth. He empowered them through His Word, Holy Spirit, and His ever-abiding promise. Each member of the Church is a witness to God’s redeeming power in his or her life. Our testimonies can impact lost souls and bring them to accept the Kingdom of God.

A healthy church is one in which every member is functioning properly. Only a body where each part fulfills its function will stand healthy and strong. If every member functions properly, then the local church will have inspiring worship, loving relationships, and servant hearts for the world.

As Paul says in Ephesians 4:16, there are three functions each member of the Church has to accomplish. “From Him, the whole body joined and held together by every supporting ligament, grows and builds itself up in love, as each part does its work” (Ephesians 4:16).

Firstly, each member must grow. Each one of us is personally and directly connected to the Head, Jesus (John 15:4-6). We must grow in spiritual maturity in order to bear fruit. God has called each one of us to grow and not to remain spiritual babies (Hebrews 5:11-14).

Secondly, each member must build others. This has been one of the missing elements in many churches. We do not take deliberate, personal responsibility for building others up. Usually, we delegate that responsibility to some professionals called “full-time ministers.” But biblically, we all have the responsibility to build others up through encouragement and support. Parents are responsible for building their children (Ephesians 6:4; Deuteronomy 6:4-9; Deuteronomy 11:18-21); existing disciples are responsible for building the new disciples (Matthew 28:19-20); the older women/men are responsible for building the younger ones (Titus 2:3-5; 2 Timothy 2:2).

Thirdly, each member must serve. Every member of the Church is a minister. We all have a calling from God along with the corresponding, necessary gifting as we continue to disciple in the way of Jesus and help each member to understand their gifting, the body functions in a healthy way to fulfill the mission of the Lord.

The word of God says “to prepare God’s people for works of service, so that the body of Christ may be built up until we all reach unity in the faith and in the knowledge of the Son of God and become mature, attaining to the whole measure of the fullness of Christ” (Ephesians 4:12-13).

There are many members in the body of Christ, and all of these members form one body. God has made each member differently with a different gift that functions appropriately to allow each to fulfill whatever task God has given him/her. As we have many members in our physical body and none of the members have the same function, so we, the community of disciples, are one body in Christ with different gifts for ministry (Romans 12:4-5).

The Body of Christ, the Church, is one unified whole made up of different parts (1 Corinthians 12:12-28). Each member is vital for the Body’s growth and maturity. As many members in the Body of Christ, we each need to function for the growth, building up, and maturity of the Body of Christ. I am a single member; hence I am not the whole, not even the half, but only a small part of Christ’s Body. We must realize the relationship which exists between each member when we exercise our gifts. A member cannot be a substitute for the entire Body, yet it can affect the whole Body (1 Corinthians 12:12-31).

In the human body for example, the eyes can see, the ears can hear, and the nose can smell. They all have their own functions, and each has its own portion. The same is true with the members of the Body of Christ. Not every member can see or hear or smell; but each member has its own specific function. To serve the Body of Christ means to supply the Body with the life which a member receives from the Head. When the eyes of a seeing member sees, the entire body is able to see; that member of the Body of Christ who has insight into spiritual things becomes the eyes of the body.

In the physical realm, when my hand works, it is not my hand but my body which works; when my feet walk, it is not my feet but my body which walks. A physical member never does anything merely for its own benefit—whatever it does is for the sake of the body. The same is true in the spiritual Body.

Life needs a channel in which to flow. God is seeking for people in whom He can deposit an abundant portion of the life of Christ so that they may supply it to others (John 10:10). He wants us to be that channel of life, and He has given us our portion of talent, our specific channel, on which to focus our energies; some of these include administration, servant-heart, giving, hospitality, encouragement, music. Whatever the channel, God wants all of the parts of the Body to complement each other as they each carry out the duties to which they are assigned.

A healthy church is one in which every member grows, serves, and builds others. All of these qualities must come from the indwelling life of Christ in each believer (John 15:4-5). This is a profound paradigm shift from a program mentality to a people mentality. However, if we can create a church culture in which every believer takes responsibility to grow, serve, and build, the Church will easily transform the community in which we live.

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!

In northern Tanzania’s remote bush, the Hadzabi people, hold to their traditional ways as hunters and gatherers.

In fact, they live in movable camps, seeking water and food from game or other natural sources. The Hadzabi consider the food of the land as God’s gift to them. They are one of Tanzania’s least-reached people groups. And their traditional beliefs include a Creator God, one they know by name. However, they also know he has a son.

Pastor Leo, a local church planter, is reaching out to the Hadzabi in the name of Jesus. He’s introducing them to the Son of the Creator God and sharing the Good News.

Leo was trained through a Global Disciples partner program. And, his goal is to reach several least-reached people groups in their region. He is among the first to complete the training and Leo’s already deep into the ministry he prepared for.

However, in just a few months, his small church has added two Hadzabi believers.

These Hadzabi believers are introducing him to the rest of their small community, building relationships, and sharing the Gospel.

Further west, another training program affiliated with Global Disciples also completed its first training. The program director, Pastor Umbu, believes that to reach the least- reached, he needs to be where they are! So, he strategically set up the training close to a people group considered least-reached.

Pastor Umbu trains people to focus on sharing the Gospel with these mountain people. Up until now, they have had a minimal Christian presence.

When one of our Global staff visited these leaders in their training and met the new Hadzabi believers in their camp, she said, “It was so meaningful because I saw our mission to the least- reached is being fulfilled!”

And it is. People like Pastor Leo and Pastor Umbu have embraced the vision to see every person have an opportunity to choose and follow Jesus. They know that includes the Hadzabi and other groups in their region, and they’re doing all they can to equip believers and fulfill the assignment to reach the least-reached.

As Global Disciples, we share their joy to see the Hadzabi and other unreached people groups in northern Tanzania come to know God’s Son Jesus as their Savior.

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!

Danbir knows about facing hurdles and obstacles, he leads a discipleship-mission training in Nepal.

He and the disciple-makers he trained ran into a significant need when they went to share the Gospel in a village—and discovered there was no water! No water for anyone in the community to drink, to wash, to water fields. And his team did not carry any water with them.

God is always at work, but He doesn’t guarantee that our part in His work will run smoothly and that everybody gets along.

Difficulties show up when, like Danbir, we face needs we can’t meet, experience opposition to our mission, or when we’re in conflict with those around us. But as whole-hearted disciples, we learn to trust God to work despite these hurdles. As a result, we can see a powerful testimony and rich spiritual fruit in our lives.

When Danbir was faced with this need for water, he recognized he had to trust God. As a whole-hearted disciple of Jesus, he gathered his team to fast and pray. When the Lord miraculously provided water for the village, it became a powerful testimony. Danbir reported, “There are now 20 new believers preparing for baptism!”

The hurdles we face can also stem from our own human nature as we relate to and serve one another. Rushil, another Nepali director, shared that during his initial training, conflict developed between students from two different ethnic groups. Longstanding prejudices and cultural traits fueled the tensions and interfered with learning to be a whole-hearted disciple of Jesus.

Then a local pastor taught on the session on Right Relationships. Rushil said, “Through that, the lives of the participants were touched by the Lord. They confessed their guilt and sought reconciliation among themselves. In that way, the Lord brought transformation to their lives.” They were knit together in the Spirit and experienced His power as they went on to share the Good News among least-reached people!

As we serve the Lord and share the Gospel, we won’t experience smooth sailing. But God is faithful to His promises and His people, and able to move the mountains of difficulty to fulfill His mission through each of us.

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!

Many people find the idea of talking with strangers scary. We don’t know how they’re going to respond, or whether or not they will like us starting a conversation with them.

Sharing your faith can be even more scary, even if the people we are sharing with are close friends.

Faith is such a personal part of us that many people may feel that we are judging them the moment we start talking about God. But remember that God has given each of us the grace to be able to witness to others. Whether you’re sharing with your friend or a stranger, try to remember not to be intimidated by the person you’re talking to.

Below are some ideas on how to share your faith in Jesus with those who don’t yet know him.

Whether you’re talking with a friend or a stranger, it can be difficult to bring up the topic of religion or Christianity.

It’s important to remember that God has given us the courage and the opportunity to share the gospel with others.

Discussing your faith can be scary, but doing so is also very rewarding.

Make sure you’re not alone when you approach them. You can always gather a group of friends to accompany you or go with you to a church group or ministry event. It’s also important to be wise when approaching a person. Jesus tells us to be as innocent as doves, but as crafty as snakes (Matthew 10:16). This means there is nothing wrong with using tact in how you present the gospel, as well as protect yourself when speaking with a stranger.

Our lives are often the best example for someone who is being presented with the Gospel.

Many people are more interested in what the gospel has done for you personally than the technicalities around the Gospel. Using your life as an example of how powerful the gospel is to bring us joy and peace can give others a personal reference and starting point (2 Corinthians 1:4). Hopefully, speaking about yourself can lead them to ask questions of themselves.

When you first share the Gospel with someone, it’s essential to listen to how they respond. The Bible says, “So in everything, do to others what you would have them to do to you, for this sums up the Law and the Prophets” (Matthew 7:12).

When first presented with the Gospel, our personal hurts, doubts, and frustrations can block our willingness to accept the Good news. If your friend objects, it could be that hurt or doubt that is fueling their objection. Listen respectfully. Once you’ve listened to their concerns, calmly and kindly explain why you believe what you believe and how it makes sense to you. If you’re unable to answer their questions, pray and ask God to help you understand what you can say in response.

When you’re witnessing to a friend, you need to make sure you’re answering their questions and concerns well.

Again, talking about God in your own life is a great way to answer their questions. Just saying that God loves you or that Jesus died for our sins may not make sense to them. You need to be able to relate with them and show them how they can have a personal relationship with God. Your personal testimony can be that connection for them. As one preacher said, “You cannot argue with a testimony, because it belongs to the person telling it, not you.” The hope is that your listener will see their own need for Christ reflected in your life.

You can’t share the gospel if you don’t know what it says. The best way to know what it says is by reading it every day. Don’t just read the parts that are fun or that make you feel good. Read the entire Bible. You’ll learn important historical facts, moral guidelines and everything else that God wants you to know. Armed with more knowledge, you’ll be more effective when sharing your faith (2 Timothy 3:17)

In the end, sharing your faith is all about being sensitive to the other person you’re speaking with. God reflected in your personal story, linked with biblical insights, can powerfully stir up the heart of another person. It’s important to remember that the gospel is the power of God and can change anyone.

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 when 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 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!

Read how Ebatshu and his team reached the isolated Batwa people and led to a movement of church multiplication among them.

Ebatshu has a vision to reach the Batwa or Pygmy people of Central Africa.

The Batwa are isolated in the forests, living as hunter-gatherers and interacting only marginally with the peoples around them. Culturally, they are often treated as lower class and discriminated against by the majority peoples.

However, Ebatshu included five Batwa believers in the discipleship-mission training he directs, launched with your help through Global Disciples.

For outreach, he traveled into the forests to minister to their people, and that’s where he met Adika. Like most of his tribe, Adika lived without clothes, dependent on whatever the forest provided.

Ebatshu began talking about Jesus but Adika just waved him off, saying, “Who is this Jesus?” Ebatshu knew that actions can speak loudly, so he gave Adika his spare shirt and trousers.

Adika was surprised and wanted to know why. Ebatshu said, “Because Jesus loves you, I love you, and I want to give these clothes to you.”

“Then I want to know this Jesus,” Adika replied. He listened intently to the Gospel and gave his life to Christ. Soon his wife and three children also placed their faith in Jesus.

Ebatshu and his team continued their outreach in the community and spent each evening discipling Adika, teaching him about his new life in Christ.

Soon, others followed Adika’s lead.

A local witchdoctor who was very sick was immediately healed when the outreach team prayed for him in the name of Jesus.

He put his faith in Jesus, as did several women, including one who was a prostitute. She was pregnant at the time and wore a special charm to protect her. Once she put her faith in Jesus, she decided to remove the charm and rely on God’s protection! And she developed a small business to support herself, leaving prostitution behind.

In a short time about 80 Batwa believers were meeting regularly with Adika as their pastor. He even chose a new name—he’s now Moses, the one who leads his people with the Good News of Jesus.

It’s been over seven years since Ebatshu met Moses, formerly Adika. Today, Moses is leading a growing movement among his people. The church is now 200 members strong, and Moses has also planted seven new churches in neighboring villages, giving oversight to the leaders he put in place.

While the Batwa don’t have the Bible in their own language yet, Ebatshu has given each pastor a Bible in a trade language they understand. The pastors read it to their congregation each week, helping them know the God they worship and follow.

They also started a school for the children—a significant step for a people often excluded from education or training by the majority peoples around them. And yes, most of the Batwa in this region now wear clothes, a sign of changed lives and the dignity of being valued by God.

What a joy to see how the Lord has used Ebatshu and Moses to bring about multiplication among this people, rejected by their neighbors but never by the One who created and died for them.

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!

What do we mean by the Kingdom of God, and how does it relate to the Church?

What is our identity, our place, and our part in the Church?

We can understand what the Kingdom of God is and how it relates to the Church by exploring the following;

The Kingdom of God is manifested and established through the Church that Jesus Christ builds (Matthew 16:18).

Jesus said, “I will build my Church and the gates of hell shall not prevail against it.” God’s purpose for the Church is found in Ephesians 3:10: “To the intent that now the manifold wisdom of God might be made known by the CHURCH to the principalities and powers in the heavenly places”.

Our Global Disciples definition of the Church is the “Church” is a growing community of disciples centered in Christ, empowered by the Holy Spirit, and focused on mission. The evidence of such a community is seen in its devotion to God’s Word, the quality and depth of fellowship, and a joyful sharing of lives celebrated in worship, communion, baptism, and prayer.

The word fellowship comes from the Greek word koinonia which means to share in common. A Christian fellowship means assimilating into the body of believers, becoming “one” in worshipping, loving, caring, and sharing. Fellowship is not an optional matter for followers of Jesus—it is mandatory. We need one another as much as the eye needs the hand and the head needs the feet. All of us need our brothers and sisters in the faith if we are to fulfill our mission of multiplying disciples and fellowships of believers in least-reached areas.

The first century Church was known by its fellowship with God and one another (Acts 2:42-47). They studied the Word together, ate together, and prayed together DAILY. They believed who they were in Christ and, as a result, the Word spread like wildfire. There are benefits in our fellowship with one another.

As disciples, we are all members of one family called the “Body of Christ.” We need one another for mutual encouragement and to help each other grow in our relationship with the Lord. That is why fellowship is so important. Our interaction with others also can and should encourage us to be accountable for our actions, words, and lifestyle so that we are living a godly life before the world (Hebrews 10:24-25). Proverbs 27:17 talks about how iron sharpens iron. We help each other stay sharp through the Word of God. Matthew 18:19 talks about how important it is to expect great results when we pray together with another believer. There are a lot of blessings when we are in a heart-to-heart fellowship with others (Psalm 133). There is nothing like spending time with people who love God and believe in who they are in Christ.

Our relationship with Jesus Christ is obviously the basis for the forgiveness of our sins, but the Bible indicates that we cannot have a proper fellowship with God if we do not have proper fellowship with one another (1 John 1:5-7). Matthew 5:23-24 indicates that our worship to God is unacceptable unless we make things right with our brethren. This shows that there is a strong, inseparable relationship between “fellowship” and “loving one another.” Some Christians do not understand the benefit of fellowship. They wish to seek the Lord and pray by themselves, they want to do everything on their own; they want to be not only a mouth but also ears, to be hands as well as feet. It is not so with those who truly know how God intends for His Church to function because they know that they need fellowship. In fellowship, we acknowledge that we are limited and insufficient apart from others.  Through fellowship, we gladly receive what we need and give what others need.

Many passages of the Bible confirm that loving one another is an affirmation of our salvation (1 John 3:14). We are able to see our fellowship with God from the reflection of our fellowship with our brothers and sisters in Christ (1 John 4:20); our relationship with one another is the barometer that measures our spiritual temperature. Our degree of love toward one another is the gauge that shows our love for God (1 John 4:12). When we can remain loving and steadfast—even if others say negative things about us, let us down, or do something that offends us—our love is being perfected. We’re growing up as disciples and becoming more like Christ!

Jesus commanded us to love one another in the same way that He loves us. He stated that this love toward others was the necessary evidence to prove our faithful discipleship to the world (John 13:34-35). How much love do we have for one another? The Bible says that we’re supposed to be ready to lay down our lives for our brothers and sisters. “By this we know love, because He laid down His life for us. And we also ought to lay down our lives for the brethren” (1 John 3:16). How do we really lay down our lives for them if we are not willing to meet with them a few times a week for fellowship? 

It is very important for every believer to be an active part of a Christian fellowship. Willful rejection of fellowship is evidence of not walking in the light (1 John 1:6). All through the New Testament, Jesus shows us that He takes personally how we relate to His body. Our love, expressions of kindness, and ministry to any of our brothers and sisters in Christ are received as though they were done to the Lord (Matthew 25:40). Is it right to refuse to fellowship with one another when the opportunity is given? If we refuse to fellowship with one another, we are refusing to fellowship with Christ (Matthew 18:20).

Fellowship within the Body of Christ is crucial to our continued growth as disciples. We need the preaching and teaching from God’s Word, the encouragement that draws us close to our brothers and sisters, the opportunities of Christian ministry for growth, and the opportunity to practice loving other Christians well.

Each part of the Church is equal before God and equally accountable to both God and every other part of the body. In practice, this means that each part must both give and receive accountability. God designed the Church to function best when its members are there for each other in ways that encourage one another and hold them responsible to the commitment they have made to follow Christ. Every believer is accountable to the local Church leadership in the community of believers where he/she is ministering and, at the same time, is also accountable to the Lord. As soon as we made the commitment to believe in Jesus and what He did for us, God adopted us to be His children. This means that we are all accountable to God and to one another.

What are some of the benefits of fellowshipping with other believers?

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!

What do we mean by the Kingdom of God, and how does it relate to the Church?

What is our identity, our place, and our part in the Church?

We can understand what the Kingdom of God is and how it relates to the Church by exploring the following;

As Christians, our identity is in Christ. If it is not, it must be in something else—our nationality, our family, our friends, our possessions, our job.

When Jesus becomes our identity, we can face whatever life throws at us.

If we have placed our trust in the risen Son of God, turned from our sins, and accepted by faith the reality of His death and resurrection, we have an amazing new identity.

We are God’s dearly loved children in whom He delights. In fact, we are heirs of His incredible blessings, saints with new natures, and citizens of God’s kingdom (John 1:12; 1 John 3:1-2; Romans 8:16).

As followers of Jesus Christ, we have a new identity. Our sins are forgiven, and we enjoy the new hope, strength, and courage in our new birth. Instead of our old life, we have abundant and eternal life that is His life in us. What a privilege to have such a new life in Christ. 

We are called to bring peace and reconciliation in today’s world. And as this verse in Corinthians states, we are called to be ministers of reconciliation in our work places, churches, families—everywhere.

A follower of Jesus Christ is an ambassador for Christ. We have higher and greater task given from God that must be accomplished. Therefore, the believer exercises the authority given by God. 

Jesus Christ took all of our sins upon Himself and died for us so that we would become the righteousness of God. When God looks at us, He sees the powerful blood of Christ over us. He calls us His children. He has taken all our sins, cast them into the depths of the sea, and put a signboard for the devil which reads, “No fishing here!”

In Christ, we become the children of God and receive the boldness and courage to approach His throne of grace calling Him “Abba, Father.” The Holy Spirit within us bears witness that we are the children of God (Romans 8:14-16).

We become as important as salt and light in life. Salt looks very insignificant but, in any dish that we cook, it plays an important role. It makes the dish tasty and delicious. Where a believer goes, there is real peace and joy, and hope overflows in a way that changes lives and impacts all those around.

Light reveals everything. As we live righteous lives, lives showing right relationship with God and Christ-like relationship with others, the works of darkness will not only be revealed but will also be removed from the lives of people around us. Our identity in Christ will heal a hurting world.

God has called us to be His, and He wants us to bear fruit. When we abide in Christ and His words abide in our hearts, we will bear the fruit of the Spirit in our daily lives, and the fruits of the ministry will be seen in us for the saving of many souls.

Living in sin makes us hostile to God. But when we receive Christ into our hearts, we become His friends. This is a relationship to be cherished and nourished. In fact, talking to Jesus on a daily basis and walking in obedience to His word strengthens this relationship.

Jesus defeated Satan, took the victory, and handed it over to us. As soon as we believe in the redemptive work of Jesus Christ, we become more than conquerors through Him. Our enemy can do us no harm.

It’s a privilege that God makes us His abiding place, His temple. Did you know that we are called to live holy lives. What God demands from us is a pure heart and clean hands.

The people around us must smell the love of Christ in and though our lives. When persecuted, we are called to bless. We are blessed to become a blessing for the people in our lives.

Fully embracing our new identity

Our new identity in Christ is a life of love, meaning, and purpose. It is Christ living in and through us. In fact, the Apostle Paul explains that we have been chosen to share in God’s glory (Romans 5:1-2). If we fully understand the riches of God’s glory in this life and the next, we will never be the same.

One of the reasons many of us Christians miss out on the abundant life Christ offers us is that we do not really believe God has something better for us beyond what we have experienced. We do not want to let go of the beliefs and values of this world. Each time we base our self-worth on accomplishments and appearance rather than on who we are in Christ, we are choosing to follow the value system of this world. Every time we choose our actions and priorities based on what is popular or currently accepted rather than on what matters to God, we are short-circuiting God’s power in our lives and sabotaging the amazing plan He has for us.  

The supernatural life Christ offers requires that we turn our backs on the old and wholeheartedly embrace the new. God always pursues us to show us a whole new way of thinking, seeing, and living that comes with fully surrendering our lives to Him. We are members of the Body of Christ with a specific function that we need to discover and put to good use. 

How often do I experience my new identity in Christ? In which of these areas am I strongest and in which of these areas do I need improvement?

Global Disciples Canada is a Christian missions 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!

What do we mean by the Kingdom of God, and how does it relate to the Church?

What is our identity, our place, and our part in the Church?

We can understand what the Kingdom of God is and how it relates to the Church by exploring the following;

The Kingdom of God refers to the realm, domain, or sphere in which God reigns.

The Kingdom of God is central to the Gospel of Jesus and very important to His ministry.

Our Lord Jesus Christ is the King of the Kingdom of God—the “King of kings and the Lord of lords” (Revelation 19:11-16; Revelation 5:9-10).

Jesus began His earthly ministry by preaching that the Kingdom of God was at hand (Mark 1:14-15).

He preached the Kingdom that is near us and within us (Luke 10:9; Luke 17:21). He taught His disciples to do the same (Luke 9:2) and, following His instruction, they also preached the Good News about the Kingdom of God (Matthew 10:7; Luke 9:2). 

The message of the early Church was also focused on the Kingdom and its King (Acts 8:12; Acts 14:22; Acts 19:8; Acts 20:25; Acts 28:30-31).

Let’s look further at what the Bible says about God’s Kingdom.

“Yours, O Lord, is the Kingdom” (1 Chronicles 29:11).

“Justice will be the scepter of your Kingdom” (Psalm 45:6).

“His Kingdom is an eternal kingdom” (Daniel 4:3).

“Our Father in heaven, hallowed be your name, your Kingdom come” (Matthew 6:10)

The Kingdom of God is also called the Kingdom of Heaven. God is ruling the entire universe from His throne in heaven. In His Matthew 13 parables, Jesus compared the Kingdom of God with six different things to show the transforming power and value of the Kingdom of God. Jesus compared the Kingdom of God with:

“God so loved the world that He gave His only begotten Son so that whoever believes in His name shall not perish but have everlasting life” (John 3:16).

Our Lord Jesus Christ gave us a new commandment to love one another as He loved us, to fully represent His Kingdom in this world (John 13:34-35). He wants us to be known by our love for one another.

The distinguishing mark of true Kingdom-minded disciples is the love that they have for one another. Our Lord also said that loving only Christians is not true agape love (Matthew 5:43-48). In His parable of the Good Samaritan, Jesus shared His expectations for Kingdom-minded ministers to show genuine kindness and love towards their neighbors, Christian and non-Christian alike (Luke 10:29-37). In the Kingdom of God, our Christian love must extend beyond our brethren in our own church group and even beyond the church community.

Are we reflecting what the Kingdom of God looks like in our relationships with one another and with our neighbors?  

Jesus made it clear that no one can enter into the Kingdom of God without being born again (John 3:3-5). How can one be born again to enter the Kingdom of God? This is the question that Nicodemus asked Jesus. New birth is granted to all who repent of their sin and who both believe and receive Jesus Christ as Savior and Lord (Matthew 3:2; John 1:12). It is the will of God for everyone to repent and believe in Jesus Christ so that He will grant them new life (2 Peter 3:9; Matthew 7:21; 2 Corinthians 5:17). To receive this free gift of God, we need to be like children (Mark 10:14). 

When Jesus asked His disciples who they thought He was, Peter answered, “You are the Christ, the Son of the living God.” Then Jesus responded, saying:

Blessed are you, Simon Bar-Jonah, for flesh and blood has not revealed this to you, but My Father who is in heaven. And I also say to you that you are Peter, and on this rock I will build My Church, and the gates of Hades shall not prevail against it. And I will give you the keys of the kingdom of heaven, and whatever you bind on earth will be bound in heaven, and whatever you loose on earth will be loosed in heaven. (Matthew 16:15-19).

When we enter into the Kingdom of God, we are given authority with Him. The benefits of citizenship belong only to those who have put themselves under the authority of the sovereign King Jesus. Speaking of Christ, Revelation 17:14 says, “He is Lord of lords and King of kings, and with Him will be His called, chosen and faithful followers.” Therefore, our first allegiance is to our heavenly citizenship rather than our earthly citizenship.

As citizens of the Kingdom, it is great to know our place and identity in Christ (Ephesians 2:5-7; Colossians 3:3-4). “Do you not know that the wicked will not inherit the Kingdom of God? Do not be deceived: Neither the sexually immoral nor idolaters nor adulterers nor male prostitutes nor homosexual offenders nor thieves nor the greedy nor drunkards nor slanderers nor swindlers will inherit the Kingdom of God” (1 Corinthians 6:9-10).

The Kingdom of God is to be sought first. First things come first. Many times we are so concerned about what are we going to do to meet our expenses. What will we eat? Where will we stay? How are we going to pay all of the school fees, electricity bills, medical bills? Jesus says in Matthew 6:31-33, “So do not worry saying, ‘What shall we eat?’ or ‘What shall we drink?’ or ‘What shall we wear?’ For the pagans run after all these things, and your heavenly Father knows that you need them. But seek first His Kingdom and His righteousness and ALL these things shall be given to you as well.”

As disciples of Jesus, we have dual citizenship—the earthly and the heavenly. The citizen of heaven is an ambassador first and foremost here on earth (2 Corinthians 5:20). We are not of this world but are merely aliens on this earth and ambassadors for Christ (John 17:14-19). Before we were born again, we were aliens to God and citizens of this world. But after salvation, we became resident aliens, sojourners in the kingdom of this world. Jesus set the standard of devotion for Kingdom citizens when He quoted the Old Testament passage from Deuteronomy 6:5, declaring this to be the greatest commandment: “You shall love the Lord your God with ALL your heart, with ALL your soul, and with ALL your mind” (Matthew 22:37). Therefore, there is no room for anything else in our life except for the Kingdom of God.

In Philippians 3:17-19, Paul contrasts two groups, and the difference between the two lies in the way each lives. He implies that those who are citizens of heaven are characterized by setting their hearts, not on the things of the world, but on things above where Christ is seated at the right hand of God (Colossians 3:1). The other group consists of “the enemies of the cross of Christ” (Philippians 3:18). They will end in destruction because they have “set their mind on earthly things” (Philippians 3:19). Therefore, we are not of this world but are the citizens of heaven, residing on earth.

Consequently, you are no longer foreigners and aliens, but fellow citizens with God’s people and members of Gods household, built on the foundation of the apostles and the prophets, with Christ Jesus himself as the chief cornerstone. In him the whole building is joined together and rises to become a holy temple in the Lord. And in him you too are being built together to become a dwelling in which God lives by his Spirit. (Ephesians 2:19-22)

Righteousness means right standing with God. The Bible tells us that all have sinned and fallen short of the glory of God (Romans 3:23). All of our righteous works are like filthy rags (Isaiah 64:6). When we believe in the atoning sacrifice of Jesus Christ on the cross, repent of our sins, and accept Jesus Christ as our Lord and Savior, the blood of Jesus cleanses us from all sins, and God’s righteousness is credited to us (1 John 1:7, 1 John 1:9). We become the righteousness of God in Him (2 Corinthians 5:21).

Jesus said to His disciples, “Peace I leave with you, my peace I give to you; not as the world gives do I give to you. Let not your heart be troubled, neither let it be afraid” (John 14:27). God’s peace rules and reigns in our hearts. This does not mean that problems won’t come in our lives, but it does mean that God will give us perfect peace in our hearts that passes all human understanding (Philippians 4:7).

In His presence there is fullness of JOY (Psalm16:11). We will experience this always, even when we go through the valley experiences, because the Holy Spirit, the Comforter, has been given us to be with us always, and He will never leave us alone.

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!

We all need good friends! Discover how to help a friend grow in faith during tough times with this practical blog from Global Disciples.

We can find great joy in encouraging others to also grow in theirs (Philemon 1:7).

We don’t need to reach a certain level in our spiritual maturity to encourage others in their growth (Romans 3.

Read on to discover how to help a friend grow in faith during tough times.

When we pray with others, it deepens our personal journeys with God, as well as our bonds with fellow believers.

We get to encourage each other by sharing stories of how God has answered our prayers.

Spend as much time as possible praying with each other. Prayers can be silent, said out loud, and intertwined with discussions about Scripture and personal testimony. Welcome the Holy Spirit to guide your discussions and prayers (Romans 8:27).

Worship is an important part of drawing closer to God. And worshipping along with others is instructed in the Bible (1 Corinthians 14:26).

We also draw closer to Him as one body. And this often results in a shared experience of being touched by the Holy Spirit.

Few things can bond believers together as strongly as a shared blessing from the Holy Spirit.

The Bible tells us that God created the heavens and the earth. If you or your friend have trouble with the concept of a creator God, this may offer you insight into the private place you should seek for inspiration.

Spending time in nature brings people closer to God or makes them more aware of God’s presence. Visits to beloved parks, greenways, and other natural areas with a friend are fantastic ways to spend time together and others to discover the beauty of life at a difficult time of the year.

For by Him all things were created in heaven and on earth, [things] visible and invisible, whether thrones or dominions or rulers or authorities; all things were created and exist through Him [that is, by His activity] and for Him. – Colossians 1:16

When we write a note to someone (whether in the form of a card, a letter or even just a simple piece of paper stuck to a mirror), we don’t realize the major impact that that simple act can have on someone.

If we ask the Holy Spirit to guide our writing, we may say something in the note that that person needs to hear at that moment to encourage and bless them.

What makes written notes different from spoken ones is that they last longer, meaning that a person can keep a note and read it again many times. A spoken encouragement can be remembered, but there is something special about having the words in writing. Rereading it is like having the person say it to you over and over again. Of course, the most significant example of this is the Bible! God left us this long note, for us to enjoy and reread throughout our lives.

Sometimes it can be difficult to read the Bible by yourself. Distractions, laziness, and even doubts can interfere with our personal Bible study time.

God knows we all have weaknesses, so He gave us each other to help us. This includes helping us read the Bible together.

Reading the Bible together can help you focus, feel like you are learning with others, and provide an opportunity for you to discuss the passage together. Discussing what you are reading with fellow believers helps you to see different perspectives on the writing, and your understanding of the Bible can deepen as you share ideas with each other. An important note, however, is that you must be careful to always encourage each other, and not let disagreements in opinion lead to resentment or damage to your friendship (1 Corinthians 1:10).

Some of the ways that we can bless others can seem trivial, but with the guidance of the Holy Spirit, the smallest gesture can impact a person for life.

A simple gift, quick phone call, or little note left on their door can break down years of doubt that a person has had about whether God is real or whether anyone really cares. That one gift could be the answer to a prayer unspoken and a confirmation that their prayer was heard and answered in an undeniable way.

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 when many of these people are within reach of a local church. Through our simple and practical 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 want a Christian mission organization to partner with to become a better disciple and help make disciples, connect with us today!