The room filled with 20 “new” disciples-in-training, some of
them acquainted, and some not. Though from at least 8 different denominations,
they all shared some things in common: they are all involved in church
ministry, and they all love God and respect His Word.
About a month before this training session, we met together
with last year's Discipleship class to compile the invitation list for this new
class. With careful consideration and prayer, 18 people were chosen. These
class members had come from areas beyond which we have traveled, from villages
we have not yet visited, expanding the reach and scope of the work begun in
2008.
They arrived eager, as did we. And we were NOT disappointed! Engaging themselves in the challenges of Discipleship, they were
stretched and encouraged to begin to think like a disciple and to learn new
ways. They happily (though reluctantly, at first) participated in group discussions
and challenges, coming more and more "out of their shells" with each
activity. Over the course of 3 days, they developed skills to both learn and
discern from the Word, as well as the activation to LEARN IT, to DO IT,
and to TEACH IT.
By the end of the class, the atmosphere was electric. They
were excitedly sharing with each other, ready to go back to their villages with
a discipleship approach to ministry, ready to engage the tools they received in
order to open the eyes of others to the richness of being a true follower of
Christ.
We are looking forward to following up with this new group
next year to see just how far they have gone.
We also praise God that they are not left alone. Not only do they go
with God, but they also have the support and encouragement of last years'
attendees. Now they have fellow-laborers throughout the region who are ready to
work together, study together, pray together, grow together, and expand God's
Kingdom.
