64308 8. What Is Jesus’ Plan for Us?

A New Purpose

When we invite Jesus into our lives, he gives us new purpose and meaning that is centered on our new relationship with him. The apostle Paul puts it this way:

Christ died for all so that those who live would not continue to live for themselves. He died for them and was raised from the dead so that they would live for him (2 Corinthians 5:15, NCV).

What greater purpose could we have than to live for the one who loved us so much that he gave his life for us on the cross so that we could live with him forever as his beloved children? As Paul tells us, such amazing love constrains us to live the rest of our lives for him (2 Corinthians 5:14).

A New Nature

If you received Jesus Christ as Savior and Lord, God gives you his nature through the indwelling Holy Spirit. Although your old nature remains with you until you die, you are no longer a slave to it. In fact, the apostle Paul speaks of our old nature, with its pride and sinful cravings as “being crucified with Christ.” He tells the Galatians,

My old self has been crucified with Christ. It is no longer I who live, but Christ lives in me. So, I live in this earthly body by trusting in the Son of God, who loved me and gave himself for me (Galatians 2:20, NLT).

When he left earth, Jesus told his followers they would receive the Holy Spirit who would give them the power to live for him and share the gospel worldwide (Acts 1:8).

The Christian life will be a continual battle between the old self (flesh) and the new nature (Spirit) which Jesus gives us when we receive him as Savior and Lord. Paul explains,“Our sinful selves want what is against the Spirit, and the Spirit wants what is against our sinful selves. The two are against each other, so you cannot do just what you please.” Paul then explains how living in the flesh produces sinful behavior like lust, greed, hatred and murder.

But living in the Spirit produces the fruit of love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, self-control (Portions of Galatians 5:16-23, NCV).

A New Relationship

In the 14th and 15th chapters of John, Jesus tells his disciples that he and the Father will actually abide in their lives by the indwelling Holy Spirit. Paul reveals this amazing truth to the Ephesian Christians.

I pray that from his glorious, unlimited resources he will empower you with inner strength through his Spirit. Then Christ will make his home in your hearts as you trust in him. Your roots will grow down into God’s love and keep you strong (Ephesians 3:16-17, NLT).

In the little booklet, My Heart Christ’s Home, Robert Munger writes about his new relationship with Jesus, and how it changed his life. Munger relates,

After Christ entered my heart, in the joy of the new-found relationship,

I said to him, ‘Lord, I want this heart of mine to be yours. I want you to settle down here and be fully at home. I want you to use it as your own….

I want you to enjoy our time together.’

Munger imagined Jesus encouraging him to spend time together in the Bible, learning more about his love and his desire to make us more like himself.

I will be here every morning early. Meet me here and we will start the day together. So, morning after morning, I would come downstairs to the living room. He would take a book of the Bible from the case. We would open it and read together. He would unfold to me the wonder of God’s saving truths. My heart sang as He shared the love and the grace He had toward me.

Give Him Control

As they spent precious time together, Munger discovered that Jesus doesn’t simply want to make improvements in our lives. He wants to become Lord of our lives by the power of his Holy Spirit. And that can only happen when we give him control of our will. Munger referred to this as turning over the “Title Deed” of his house to Christ. Paul writes of it as being dead to self and alive to Christ.

The Bible calls a life controlled by the Holy Spirit, the “Spirit filled life.” When Munger allowed Jesus to transform his house, he discovered the warmth, music and joy that Jesus’ Spirit brought into it. You can discover that too, simply by yielding control to the Holy Spirit and trusting him with every part of your life.

It is important for you to know that the Spirit-controlled life is the normal Christian life. It is God’s plan for your life, and available to each believer. Once you experience the joy, peace and satisfaction it brings, you will never want to go back to a self-centered life.

When you sin (and we all will), confess it immediately and get back in fellowship with your Lord. He will forgive you and hold no grudge. God’s Word promises,

If we confess our sins, he is faithful and just to forgive us our sins and cleanse us from all unrighteousness (1 John 1:9).

Once you have confessed your sins, trust his promise that you are forgiven and restored into fellowship with God. Then, go on walking in the Spirit by faith.

In his booklet, “Spiritual Breathing,” Dr. Bill Bright compares walking in the Spirit to the way we inhale and exhale oxygen. We inhale fresh oxygen which is necessary for life, and exhale carbon dioxide which is impure and harmful to life.

In a similar way, when we sin, we need to confess our sins (exhale) and breathe in (inhale) the filling of the Holy Spirit by yielding our lives back to him in prayer.

As you learn to walk with Christ, there will be setbacks and times of discouragement. Jesus doesn’t promise that everything in your new life will go smoothly. But he does promise to be there helping you every step of your journey. Paul encourages the Philippians,

I am certain that God, who began the good work within you, will continue his work until it is finally finished on the day when Christ Jesus returns(Philippians 1:6, NLT).

Paul’s words remind us that God is faithful and will never give up on you as his beloved child. In fact, as the song says, “His goodness is running after you!”

There are many additional helps, articles and videos that are available to you free on this JO App.

Endnotes

93624.6.1 List of 100 Worksheet

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93624.9 Lesson 9. Commissioning

THE JOURNEY BEGINS NOW — A CALL TO LIVE THE GREAT COMMISSION

Brothers and sisters in Christ,

Today is more than a celebration. It is a commissioning, a moment when Heaven says, “Go!” The Great Commission is not a task reserved for missionaries or pastors. It is the heartbeat of every believer. Jesus’ final command in Matthew 28 was not just to gather, worship, or build programs; it was to make disciples of all nations. That call did not end with the apostles. It now rests on you.

Reflect upon the principles you have learned in this DMM training. A few principles that will continue to keep your eyes focused, your heart steady, and your faith firm.

  • Embrace the Great Commission. Who is God calling me to reach today? The Great Commission is for all believers, not just some.
  • Empowered by the Holy Spirit. Pay attention to the Holy Spirit’s gentle nudge, whether to speak, pray, or act in a certain way.
  • Count the Cost. Remember Jesus’ promise of victory, for He has overcome the world. Sometimes ministry is not easy, and often we face trials or persecution.
  • Encourage and uplift the body of Christ. Share victories, challenges, and prayer needs with other believers. A unified body is strong, and we should not be divisive.
  • Faith and boldness. Without faith and boldness, we will miss out on too many opportunities.
  • Multiply health. The church has become so focused on multiplication that dysfunction has not been addressed. Do not multiply dysfunction.

As you commit yourself to making disciples and multiplying disciples, keep these four core truths close so that may anchor your journey from this day forward:

1. You Are Called

The command to “go and make disciples” is personal. God is not looking for ability; He is looking for availability. You don’t need to have all the answers—you need to have a heart that says, “Here I am, Lord. Send me.” Every follower of Christ has been entrusted with the message of reconciliation (2 Corinthians 5:18–20). You are now His ambassador.

But where does it start? Right where you are. Your calling is not only to cross oceans but to cross the street. Begin in your family, in your workplace, in your local church. Ask yourself each day, “Who is God calling me to reach today?” When you live with that intentionality, you will discover that evangelism is not an event—it is a lifestyle. You have been called, not just to believe in Jesus, but to help others follow Him.

2. You Are Empowered

Jesus never intended for you to fulfill this mission in your own strength. That’s why He said, “You will receive power when the Holy Spirit comes upon you” (Acts 1:8). The Holy Spirit is not just a doctrine or a force. He is the personal presence of God, living in you to guide, empower, and embolden your every step.

The Spirit gives wisdom when you feel unsure, strength when you feel weak, and boldness when you feel afraid. If you wait for confidence to appear before you move, you may never go. But if you move in faith, the Holy Spirit will meet you with the power you need. Be intentional about daily dependence: pray for guidance, listen to His voice, and expect God to work through you.

3. You Are United

The mission is too big for one person, one organization, or one nation. Jesus prayed in John 17 that His followers would be “brought to complete unity so that the world may know” that He was sent from the Father. Unity is not optional—it is essential.

You are part of the Body of Christ. That means we support each other, pray for one another, and share the load of the mission. Don’t walk this road alone. Build kingdom friendships. Encourage your fellow laborers. When we work together, our witness grows stronger, and our reach becomes wider. In a world fractured by division, the unity of the Church becomes one of the greatest testimonies of the Gospel’s power.

4. You Are Sent

Being called is important. Being empowered is necessary. But at some point, we must go. Jesus said, “I chose you and appointed you so that you might go and bear fruit—fruit that will last” (John 15:16). The time for training and preparation is never wasted, but eventually, every disciple must step into the harvest field.

You are sent—not to fill a seat but to transform lives. You are sent into schools, neighborhoods, nations, and even hostile environments, with the message of Jesus on your lips and the power of God in your heart. You may feel unworthy or ill-equipped—but God does His best work through willing vessels. The same Jesus who sent the disciples is sending you, and He promises, “I am with you always, to the very end of the age” (Matthew 28:20).

The Journey Begins Now

This is your moment. Don’t wait for perfect conditions. Don’t wait for permission. You already have it. Heaven has called your name.

Go and make disciples.

Go and bear fruit.

Go with boldness.

Go in unity.

Go with the Spirit.

And go with the promise that you are never alone.

The journey begins now.

93624.8 Lesson 8. How? Your Story

I. THE POWER OF YOUR PERSONAL TESTIMONY

  1. Why Your Story Matters: Your story of transformation is unique and can reach people in ways theological arguments cannot. It reflects God’s work in your life.
  2. Biblical Example: The Apostle Paul shared his testimony multiple times, adjusting the details depending on the audience. In Acts 26, Paul shared with King Agrippa about his encounter with Jesus on the road to Damascus.
  3. Key Principles: Honesty, humility, and focusing on what God has done.
  4. Their Story: It is helpful if you can get them to share about their spiritual journey in order that you might be able to adapt your presentation about your story and God’s story to be appropriate for their worldview, values, and priorities.

II. CRAFTING YOUR TESTIMONY

  1. Structure to Follow:
  1. <- Life Before Jesus: Describe who you were before you met Jesus. Be specific but avoid unnecessary or overly graphic details. For example, talk about a struggle, a sense of emptiness, or fears you had.
  2. † Why you chose to follow Jesus: Describe how you met Jesus. Emphasize what made you realize you needed Him.
  3. -> Life Following Jesus: Share the changes that occurred after accepting Jesus—how your mindset, actions, and relationships have been transformed.
  4. ? The Ask: Make sure to ask for a response at the end of your story that leads into God’s story. Or tell them that you are going to share with them the story that changed your life.

NOTE: If you want another way to share your story, you can always share about how God has made a difference in your life, helped you, healed you, or brought you through a difficult circumstance, etc.

Exercise: Write down your story in three sections. Aim for no more than 300 words per section to keep it concise.

III. EFFECTIVE STORYTELLING TIPS

  1. Be Authentic: Share both the highs and lows of your journey. People connect with authenticity.
  2. Avoid Religious Jargon: Instead of saying “I was being sanctified,” explain it in simple terms—“I felt an overwhelming sense of God’s love and peace.”
  3. End with an Invitation: You can conclude by inviting the listener to explore their own relationship with Jesus or ask if they would like to hear more.
  4. Reminder: The main idea behind sharing your story is to open a door for you to share God’s story. Once the door is open, share God’s story with the person.

IV. PRACTICAL EXERCISES FOR CRAFTING AND SHARING YOUR STORY

  1. Group Practice: Each person shares their story with a small group and receives constructive feedback. The focus should be on clarity, impact, and natural flow.
  2. Three-Minute Testimony: Practice giving your testimony in under three minutes. This helps make your story concise and suitable for brief conversations.
  3. Adapt Your Story for Different Audiences: Learn to tailor the tone and focus of your story to your audience. For example, focus on emotional aspects when speaking to someone who is struggling emotionally.

V. TESTIMONY SHARING OPPORTUNITIES

  1. Everyday Settings: Share your testimony in natural conversations—during breaks at work, while waiting in line, or over a meal.
  2. Invitations to Hear More: End your story with an open invitation: “Would you be interested in learning how Jesus could also impact your life?

93624.7 Lesson 7. How? God’s Story

I. THE POWER OF GOD’S STORY

  1. God’s story is the foundation of the Gospel. It is the overarching narrative of God’s plan for humanity, encompassing creation, fall, redemption, and restoration.
  2. The Simplicity of the Gospel: The message of the Gospel should be clear and understandable to anyone, regardless of their background. This simplicity is vital for reproducibility—enabling new believers to quickly learn and share God’s story with others, leading to multiplication.

II. THE BIBLICAL BASIS FOR SHARING GOD’S STORY:

  1. Jesus’ Example of Storytelling: Jesus often used stories (parables) to communicate complex spiritual truths in simple ways (Matthew 13:34). He knew that stories engage the heart and mind, making them memorable and relatable.
  2. The Apostles’ Proclamation: In the Book of Acts, the apostles consistently shared God’s story as they preached the Gospel. Peter’s sermon at Pentecost (Acts 2:14-41) is an example of how he shared the story of Jesus’ death, resurrection, and fulfillment of prophecy to call people to repentance and faith.

III. UNDERSTANDING GOD’S STORY: THE BIG PICTURE

  1. God’s story is the central narrative of the Bible. It reveals who God is, why Jesus came, and how we can respond to His love and salvation. The story can be presented in four main parts, making it easy for anyone to share.
  1. Creation: God’s Original Design

  1. The Beginning: In the beginning, God created the heavens and the earth (Genesis 1:1). He made everything good, including humanity, which was created in His image to have a relationship with Him (Genesis 1:27).
  2. God’s Design: God’s original design was perfect—full of love, harmony, and intimacy between God and humanity. People were created to know God, worship Him, and rule over creation in partnership with Him.
  3. Why It Matters: Starting with creation helps people understand that God is the Creator, we are His creation, and we were made to live in relationship with Him. This establishes the foundation for understanding sin and the need for redemption.
  1. The Fall: Humanity’s Rebellion
  1. The Entrance of Sin: Sin entered the world when Adam and Eve disobeyed God’s command, leading to separation from God (Genesis 3). This rebellion broke the perfect relationship between God and humanity, resulting in spiritual death, pain, and brokenness.
  2. The Consequence of Sin: Because of sin, humanity is now separated from God, unable to restore the relationship by its own efforts (Romans 3:23). This separation affects all areas of life—spiritual, emotional, relational, and physical.
  3. Why It Matters: Understanding the fall helps people see the root of the world’s brokenness and their personal need for God’s forgiveness. It establishes why Jesus’ sacrifice is necessary for redemption.
  1. Redemption: Jesus’ Sacrifice and Resurrection
  1. God’s Love and Mercy: Despite humanity’s rebellion, God did not abandon us. He sent His Son, Jesus Christ, to live a perfect life, die on the cross for our sins, and rise again to offer salvation to all who believe (John 3:16).
  2. The Cross and Resurrection: Jesus’ death on the cross paid the penalty for sin, and His resurrection defeated the power of death, offering new life to those who put their faith in Him (Romans 5:8, 1 Corinthians 15:3-4).
  3. Why It Matters: The redemption story highlights God’s love, grace, and the possibility of a restored relationship through Jesus. It is the heart of the Gospel—an invitation to repent, believe, and follow Jesus as Lord and Savior.
  1. Restoration: The Hope of New Creation
  1. New Life in Christ: When someone accepts Jesus, they become a new creation (2 Corinthians 5:17). The Holy Spirit begins the process of transformation, restoring the person’s relationship with God and enabling them to live according to God’s design.
  2. God’s Ultimate Plan: The story doesn’t end with personal salvation. God’s ultimate plan is to restore all creation to its original design—a new heaven and new earth where there will be no more sin, pain, or death (Revelation 21:1-4).
  3. Why It Matters: Restoration offers hope not just for individuals but for the whole world. It reminds believers that their mission is not only to experience personal salvation but to partner with God in restoring others to Him.

IV. PRACTICAL METHODS FOR SHARING GOD’S STORY

When sharing God’s story, it’s important to use methods that are simple, memorable, and reproducible. Here are several approaches that can be used in various contexts.

  1. The 3 Circles Method

Overview: The 3 Circles is a simple visual tool that presents God’s story in three stages: God’s Design, Brokenness, and the Gospel.

How to Use It:

  1. Draw the First Circle: Write “God’s Plan.” Explain that God originally created the world perfect, with a design for a relationship with Him, with purpose and life.
  2. Draw the Second Circle: Write “Brokenness.” Explain how sin entered the world and broke our relationship with God, leading to pain, suffering, and separation from Him, and we naturally look for ways to fix the brokenness.
  3. Draw the Third Circle: Write “Follow.” Explain that Jesus came to heal our brokenness and restore us to God’s Plan. Through His death and resurrection, He offers forgiveness and new life.

Exercise: Practice drawing and explaining the 3 Circles to a friend or in a group. Role-play sharing it in a conversation with someone who is seeking spiritual answers.

  1. Creation to Christ (C2C) Story

Overview: This method tells the story of the Bible from creation to the coming of Christ, emphasizing key events such as creation, the fall, the promise of a savior, the life of Jesus, His crucifixion, and His resurrection.

How to Use It:

  1. Start by telling the story of creation and explain how God created everything good.
  2. Transition to the story of Adam and Eve’s sin, explaining the consequences of the fall.
  3. Introduce the promise of a savior through the Old Testament stories, leading to Jesus’ birth, ministry, death, and resurrection.

Practical Application: Use C2C when you have more time, such as during home visits, Bible studies, or casual conversations. Encourage participants to learn the key elements of the story by heart to share it fluently.

  1. The Romans Road

Overview: The Romans Road is a series of verses from the Book of Romans that outline the plan of salvation.

Key Verses:

  1. Romans 3:23: “For all have sinned and fall short of the glory of God.”
  2. Romans 6:23: “For the wages of sin is death, but the gift of God is eternal life in Christ Jesus our Lord.”
  3. Romans 5:8: “But God demonstrates his own love for us in this: While we were still sinners, Christ died for us.”
  4. Romans 10:9: “If you declare with your mouth, ‘Jesus is Lord,’ and believe in your heart that God raised him from the dead, you will be saved.”

How to Use It: The Romans Road is effective for one-on-one evangelism or small group discussions. It helps people understand sin, the need for redemption, and the response required for salvation. As you progress through the verses, have the participant read them and discuss each of them.

  1. The 4 Spiritual Laws / Bridge Illustration

Overview: The 4 Spiritual Laws is a classic Gospel presentation that explains four principles of God’s story:

  1. God loves you and has a wonderful plan for your life. (Draw God’s side of the gap.) (John 3:16, John 10:10)
    • Why is it that most people are not experiencing the abundant life? Because…
  2. Humanity is sinful and separated from God. Therefore, he cannot know and experience God’s love and plan for his life. (Romans 3:23, 6:23)
  3. The third law explains the only way to bridge this gulf…
    • Jesus Christ is God’s only provision for sin. Through Him, we can know and experience God’s love and plan for our life. (Draw the Cross) (Romans 5:8, 1 Peter 3:18)
    • It is not enough just to know these three laws…
  4. We must individually receive Jesus as Savior and Lord. Draw the person and ask for a response.

Note: These are not the only ways to tell God’s story; be creative and share what you have learned in your culture and context.

V. PRACTICAL STEPS FOR SHARING GOD’S STORY

  1. Start with Your Testimony
  1. Personal Story as a Bridge: Your personal testimony is a powerful tool that makes God’s story relatable. Share your own journey of encountering Jesus as a way to transition into sharing God’s larger story.
  1. Be Relational and Contextual
  1. Adjust Your Approach: Be sensitive to the cultural and personal context of the person you’re sharing with. Use illustrations and language that resonate with their background and experiences.
  2. Ask Questions: Use questions to gauge the person’s understanding and interest. For example:
    • “What do you think about God?”
    • “Have you ever heard the story of Jesus?”
  3. Adapt Your Message: Be prepared to adapt the length and depth of God’s story based on the person’s interest and time availability. In some cases, you might share a brief version of the Gospel, while in others, you may have time to share more of the biblical narrative.
  1. Focus on Clarity and Invitation
  1. Keep It Simple: Avoid using Christian jargon or complicated theological terms. Use simple language that clearly communicates the message.
  2. Invite a Response: After sharing God’s story, invite the person to respond. Ask if they have any questions, if they understand what you’ve shared, and if they would like to accept Jesus as their Savior. Be patient and gentle, respecting their journey and openness.

VI. PRACTICE IN GROUPS

  1. Role-Playing: Regularly practice sharing God’s story in small groups, using different methods. Rotate who leads each session to ensure everyone gains confidence in sharing the Gospel.
  2. Feedback and Encouragement: After each practice session, provide feedback, focusing on clarity, confidence, and compassion. Encourage one another to be bold and to rely on the Holy Spirit for guidance.

93624.6 Lesson 6. Evangelism Who? List of 100

I. THE PURPOSE OF CREATING A LIST OF 100

  1. The List of 100 is a strategic tool to identify the people God has already placed in your life whom you can reach with the Gospel. Being intentional about outreach allows for natural opportunities to arise in your daily life.
  2. Why 100?: By aiming for 100 names, you push yourself beyond the obvious relationships (family and close friends) to think more broadly about acquaintances, neighbors, coworkers, etc.

II. STEPS TO CREATE THE LIST (SEE APPENDIX “LIST OF 100 WORKSHEET”)

  1. Step 1: Brainstorm: Think of people in different categories—family, friends, coworkers, neighbors, and service providers (e.g., your baker or doctor).
    Exercise: Write down at least 20 names initially and keep adding more throughout the week until you reach 100.
  2. Step 2: Assess Spiritual Status: Beside each name, note their current spiritual status:
    • Non-believer: Has no clear understanding of the Gospel.
    • Seeker: Shows interest but hasn’t made a commitment.
    • Believer: A fellow Christian, possibly in need of discipleship.
  3. Step 3: Pray Over the List: Consistently pray for the people on your list. Ask God to open their hearts, provide opportunities for conversations, and give you courage.
    Group Activity: Each member shares 3-5 names from their list and prays for them together.

III. ENGAGING PEOPLE FROM YOUR LIST

  1. Practical Actions: Once you have identified individuals, look for opportunities to connect with them:
  1. Service: Offer practical help to them—this could be helping them with errands, lending a hand with home projects, or offering babysitting.
  2. Invite Them to a Meal: Hospitality opens doors for meaningful conversations.
  3. Spiritual Conversations: Share what God has done in your life when natural opportunities arise. Trust the Holy Spirit to guide the timing.

IV. TRACKING YOUR OUTREACH

  1. Update Regularly: Keep notes on each person—how they respond, any spiritual conversations, and what next steps to take.
  2. Accountability: Share progress with your small group. Have group members pray for specific people on your list.

V. PRACTICAL EXERCISES FOR LIST OF 100

  1. Weekly Check-In: During your group meetings, ask each member to share an update about one person on their list.
  2. Targeted Prayer Sessions: Dedicate time during each meeting to pray specifically for the lists of 100—each member brings their list, and the group prays over these individuals.
  3. Intentional Connections: Set a weekly goal to connect with 2-3 people on your list through phone calls, texts, or in-person visits.

List of 100 Worksheet

93624.5 Lesson 5. Four Fields and Multiplication

I. THE FOUR FIELDS FRAMEWORK

  1. The Four Fields is a simple, reproducible model used in disciple-making movements to guide the processes of evangelism, discipleship, church formation, and leadership development. It is based on biblical principles and practices found in the New Testament, particularly in Jesus’ ministry and the growth of the early church.
  2. Why the Four Fields?: This framework helps believers understand how to move from zero to multiplying disciples by clarifying the stages of the disciple-making process. It ensures that every part of the Great Commission—preaching the Gospel, making disciples, forming new communities of believers, and raising up leaders—is included.

II. BIBLICAL BASIS OF THE FOUR FIELDS

  1. Jesus’ Parable of the Sower (Mark 4:26-29): Jesus used agricultural imagery to describe the Kingdom of God. The Four Fields strategy reflects this by viewing disciple-making as a process of sowing, cultivating, growing, and harvesting. In the parable, the farmer works through different stages—preparing the soil, planting seeds, nurturing growth, and reaping the harvest.
  2. Paul’s Ministry Model: In Acts 13-20, we see Paul following a similar pattern. He enters new areas (empty fields), shares the Gospel (sowing), disciples new believers (growing), establishes churches (church formation), and raises up leaders to sustain and multiply the work (leadership development).

III. BREAKING DOWN THE FOUR FIELDS

  1. Entry (Empty Field): The empty field represents people, places, or communities where the Gospel is not yet known or where there is minimal Gospel presence. This could be a neighborhood, school, workplace, or social group where few people have heard about Jesus.
  1. Biblical Example: In Luke 10:1-12, Jesus sends His disciples ahead of Him to enter new towns and prepare the way. They were to look for receptive people who would welcome the message.
  2. Entry Strategies: Prayer walking, offering acts of kindness, visiting homes, or engaging in community events.
  1. Gospel Sharing (Sowing Field): Sharing the Gospel broadly to “sow” seeds of faith. The sowing field represents the initial sharing of the Gospel with non-believers. It is where seeds of the Gospel are planted in the hearts of individuals and groups, creating opportunities for spiritual growth.
  1. Biblical Example: Jesus modeled sowing the Gospel in a variety of ways—through parables, one-on-one conversations (e.g., the woman at the well in John 4), and public proclamations (e.g., the Sermon on the Mount in Matthew 5-7).
  2. Sowing Strategies: Use tools like the 3 Circles, personal testimonies, intentional conversation starters, or invitations to Discovery Bible Studies.
  1. Discipleship (Growing Field): Once someone accepts Christ, they need nurturing and teaching. The growing field represents the stage where new believers are discipled and nurtured in their faith. It is where spiritual growth is cultivated through intentional discipleship.
  1. Biblical Example: Jesus spent most of His ministry time discipling the Twelve, helping them grow in their understanding, faith, and obedience (Mark 3:14). Similarly, Paul nurtured new believers in cities like Corinth, Thessalonica, and Ephesus, investing time to build them up in the faith (Acts 18-20).
  2. Discipleship Methods: Meet regularly for Bible study, prayer, and accountability. Encourage new believers to engage in studies such as Discovery Bible Study or 3/3rds Groups.
  3. Exercise: Each group member disciples a new believer, teaching them foundational truths such as baptism, prayer, and faith.
  1. Church Formation (Harvest Field): Gather new believers into simple churches that reproduce. The church formation field represents the process of gathering new disciples into simple, reproducible churches. This is where new believers come together regularly to worship, study the Word, share communion, pray, and engage in mission.
  1. Biblical Example: In Acts 2:42-47, we see the early church coming together for fellowship, teaching, breaking of bread, and prayer. These gatherings created the foundation for sustained spiritual growth and multiplication.
  2. House Churches: Form small, reproducible groups. Follow the 3/3rds Group Format.
  1. Practical Multiplication
  1. Empowering Leaders: From the beginning, teach disciples that the goal is multiplication. Train them to share the Gospel and disciple others.
  2. Movement Mindset: Encourage each disciple to form new groups, fostering exponential growth. Encourage every disciple to make at least one new disciple within six months.

IV. EXERCISES FOR PRACTICING THE FOUR FIELDS

  1. Group Brainstorm: Brainstorm strategies for each of the four fields and create a timeline for implementing them in the community.
  2. Role-Playing Scenarios: Practice different stages—entering a community, sharing the Gospel, discipling a new believer, and forming a group.
  3. Create a Visual Map: Draw or use a printed diagram of the Four Fields. As you engage a new area or community, mark specific actions and results in each field—entry points, people of peace, Gospel presentations, discipleship groups, and new church gatherings.

V. SUSTAINING MULTIPLICATION

  1. Keep It Simple: It should not be difficult for people of other cultures to come to Christ or come to church.
  1. Biblical Example: The first Christians were all Jews. So, the first Christian churches were culturally Jewish. They wore Jewish clothes, ate Jewish food, celebrated Jewish holidays and observed Jewish laws, customs, and traditions. There was nothing wrong with that. And as long as all the Christians came from a Jewish background, there was no problem. But something happened – the Gospel began to spread to Gentiles (Acts 10, Acts 11:20). Paul began planting Gentile churches in many cities. For the first time, Christians had to ask themselves how much of their Jewish tradition was really essential to Christianity. Consider what traditions or culture could create unnecessary barriers to evangelism and multiplication.
  1. Elephant churches or Rabbit churches
    Elephants are huge, but rabbits multiply faster. Rabbit churches have these common elements.
  1. Small and relational.
  2. Everyone contributes to the learning, encouragement, and study process.
  3. Everyone is considered a potential leader. Everyone has the opportunity to influence and lead others to Christ.
  4. Obedience based and not just focused on knowledge.
  5. Focused on forming new groups not just growing in size.
  6. Discuss and discover the Bible, trust the Holy Spirit for understanding; and not focused on lecturing others.

93624.4 Lesson 4. Coaching Leaders: Nurturing Skill and Ability in Others

I. INTRODUCTION

An important characteristic of Christian leadership is character, specifically, a character modeled on Christ’s servant heart. The key focus is on how Christ-centered servant leaders empower those they lead to fulfill their potential in God’s service. Therefore, one essential tool for the Christian leader is coaching, which we will explore.

  1. Myths about mentoring:
  1. “I don’t need a mentor.”
  2. “You need one mentor for life.”
  3. “Mentors have to be over 60 years old.”
  4. “A mentor has to be a perfect person.”
  5. “I could never be a mentor.”

II. DEFINITION OF TERMS

The concepts of mentoring and coaching are often used interchangeably, and the definitions can sometimes be unclear. In our study, we will treat them as two distinct aspects of the leadership training and development process, each with its own unique role.

  1. Mentor:
  1. Robert Clinton defines mentoring as “… a relational experience in which one person empowers another by sharing God-given resources.”
  2. Mentoring promotes personal growth and is influenced by context. For instance, a parent mentors their child to mature and develop the life skills required in their culture. In an organization, a mentor’s role is to assist individuals in their growth by cultivating the skills necessary for their roles on the team while fully embracing and embodying the organization’s core values.
  1. Coach:

  1. According to Bob Logan, “Coaching is the process of helping people develop their God-given potential.”
  2. A coach is a leader who leads from the sidelines. He focuses on serving and empowering others—unlocking their potential and helping them fulfill God’s purpose for their lives.
  3. All leaders are coaches. A coach is someone who leads the team. They train, encourage, and assist the team captain to help bring out the best in all their players. A coach can transform a group of people into a team and elevate a good team into a great team.
  4. Coaching focuses on developing the technical competence of an individual or group in a specific skill or area of expertise. Therefore, a sports team is coached to enhance both individual skills and capabilities, as well as to work together cohesively as a single unit, all with the aim of achieving success. These principles translate directly to organizational settings; only the skills and capabilities vary. When it comes to developing “softer” skills, coaching begins to merge with mentoring.
  5. Coaching is about more than just developing technical skills through one-on-one instruction. It involves enabling the person being coached to transform problems into learning opportunities and to cultivate skills for the future. This process empowers them to think critically and resolve issues independently. As a result, the person being coached will take greater ownership of the task at hand and feel that their contribution is valued and significant.

III. BIBLICAL BASIS FOR MENTORING AND COACHING

  1. Coaching, instructing, and mentoring relationships are prevalent throughout the scriptures. Here, we see one person nurturing and stirring the gifts of another, helping them to fulfill God’s purposes for their lives.
  1. Jethro and Moses (Exodus 18:1-27)
  2. Elijah and Elisha (1 Kings 19:19-21)
  3. Barnabas and Paul (Acts 4:36-37; 9:26-30; 11:22-30)
  4. Barnabas and John Mark (Acts 15:36-39)
  5. Priscilla and Aquila and Apollos (Acts 18:1-3, 24-28)
  6. Paul and Timothy (Acts 16:1-3; Philippians. 2:19-23; 2 Timothy. 2:1-4)
  7. In 2 Timothy 2, Paul instructs Timothy to mentor and disciple those within his circle of influence, doing so in a way that ensures this pattern continues in the lives of others.
  1. “You then, my son, be strong in the grace that is in Christ Jesus. And the things you have heard me say in the presence of many witnesses entrust to reliable men who will also be qualified to teach others” 2 Timothy 2:2.

IV. THE BENEFITS OF COACHING

  1. Builds relationships
  1. Communicates value to people (Listen)
  2. Builds ownership and independence
  3. Empowers self-discovery (‘aha moment’)
  4. Encourages confidence
  5. Grows people
  6. It is accessible – everyone can lead.
  7. Helps us learn from both failure and success.
  1. Coaching as a Tool to Improve Learning:

  1. Studies show that training requires support from coaching to have a truly beneficial effect. In this case, coaching involves applying what has been learned in everyday situations. It is a process that helps convert the training into behavior and embeds new behavior into regular practice.
  2. Studies indicate that training without this type of coaching tends to be only about 5% effective, while when paired with coaching, it can reach an effectiveness of up to 80%.
  3. Therefore, when someone you lead completes a training course, it is well worth your effort to arrange coaching sessions to help them apply the training effectively.
  4. For you, it will be extremely beneficial to find a trusted person with whom you can share what you are learning about leadership. This connection will enable you to discuss the application of these concepts and integrate them into your leadership approach and practice.

V. THE GROW COACHING MODEL FOR THE CHRISTIAN LEADER

There are many coaching models. One widely used approach is GROW. It neither focuses on the coach nor primarily on the result, although that is in view. Instead, it focuses on the individual, the person being coached. This means it supports those in Christian leadership who seek to exhibit a Christ-centered servant leadership style, which emphasizes the needs of those they lead over their own position and status. Additionally, because it provides a general framework, the coach does not need to have a deep understanding of the area in which the person they are coaching operates.

  1. Note: Remember that the goal of coaching is not just to mentor an individual, but to impart coaching skills so they too can share these practices with others in the same way they were given to them. Let’s look briefly at the GROW model of coaching.

  1. Goals Step one: When sitting down with the person or people you are coaching, determine what the goal will be. What do they want? What needs the most work right now? What is the biggest obstacle they are facing now? What is the most critical issue they are struggling with?
  2. Reality Step two: After establishing the goal, we need to assess the person’s current situation in relation to the goal they want. What is the reality of the circumstance? What is currently happening? How does reality appear at this moment? How long have they been in this situation? What factors are preventing the achievement of this goal?
  3. Options Step three: Ask, “What could you do to achieve your goal?” Pose questions beginning with “suppose” or “if.” There likely won’t be a single solution that addresses every obstacle at once, so address the obstacles one at a time.
  4. Will (Way Forward) Step four: Considering what we have just discussed, what will the person or people do next? What are one, two, or three actions they will take? What timeline will they establish? Who needs to be involved in making this happen? What additional resources will they need?

Grow Model Application:

Now that we have examined the GROW model and understand the significance of coaching, we need to implement it. In pairs or groups of three, complete the following exercises.

Exercise 1:

A pastor approaches you who has been leading the same church for nearly three years. During that time, the church has remained consistent at around 21 adults, with a few families moving away and a couple of new families joining. The church has great dynamics; everyone is friends, and they engage in many activities together outside of church life.

The pastor truly desires to see his church grow and engage in evangelism, but he has struggled to motivate those involved to become genuinely interested in doing anything outside their usual activities.

The pastor genuinely wants to see the church leadership grow; however, no one in the church is willing to take on leadership roles.

What might be some initial questions you would ask in this situation?

Goal:

________________________________________________________________________

________________________________________________________________________

________________________________________________________________________

Reality:

________________________________________________________________________

________________________________________________________________________

________________________________________________________________________

Options:

________________________________________________________________________

________________________________________________________________________

________________________________________________________________________

Will:

________________________________________________________________________

________________________________________________________________________

________________________________________________________________________

VI. COACHING VERSUS TELLING

  1. When we ‘tell,’ we are downloading, whereas when we coach, we uplift.
  2. Below are a few examples of the difference between “telling” and “coaching,” based on Whitmore, John, Coaching for Performance: Growing People, Performance and Purpose, 1996 edition, p. 107.
  1. Coach/supervisor: “You are a terrible leader.”
    • This type of statement is a personal criticism that undermines confidence and will, without a doubt, negatively impact performance in the future.
  2. Coach/supervisor: “The event was a shambles.”
    • This comment targets the program rather than the individual, yet it still undermines self-confidence and offers no actionable information for the learner.
  3. Coach/supervisor: “The idea of the event was solid, but the way it was organized lacked energy and leadership.”
    • This statement avoids criticism while offering the learner some information. However, the information is insufficient and lacks ownership.
  4. Coach/supervisor: “How do you feel the event went?”
    • The learner/performer now has ownership but is likely to respond with a non-response such as “fine” or make a value judgment like “great,” rather than providing a more useful or reflective description.
  5. Coach/supervisor: “What was the main purpose of the event?” “To what extent did you/your team achieve that?” “What went well?” “What didn’t go so well?” “What did you learn?”
    • In response to a series of questions, the individual being coached can provide a detailed, non-judgmental, and non-defensive description of the program and the rationale behind it. This example enhances learning and boosts awareness and performance. The student or learner also takes ownership of their work and becomes more self-reliant. They assume greater responsibility for their actions, decisions, and performance.

VII. THE ROLE OF THE COACH

  1. The major role of the coach is to help someone move forward:
  1. to help them identify blockages that are hindering their performance
  2. to help them identify actions they can take
  3. to give them the tools and power to act
  4. to increase their confidence and decision-making ability

Exercise 2: Asking good questions is fundamental to effective coaching. Transforming statements into questions is a skill that we can cultivate through practice. Given below is an exercise to help you ask the right questions. Take a moment to write down the question that would be suitable for the statement given below:

StatementQuestion
“That’s a stupid idea” 
“You’re not following through” 
“It’s not as bad as you think” 
“If you don’t improve your program, you’ll lose people” 
“You’re neglecting your family” 
“You are not empowering your team” 

The coach’s goal is not to fix people’s problems or to swoop in at the last minute to save them from their situations; rather, it is to unlock the answers within each person and help them solve their problems on their own.

Exercise 3:

Pick an area in your life that you would like to receive coaching in, whom could you ask?

_____________________________________________________________________

_____________________________________________________________________

_____________________________________________________________________

93624.3 Lesson 3. Modeling to Multiply Leaders

Once potential leaders are identified, it’s important to develop them through intentional training. The MAWL training cycle (Model, Assist, Watch, Leave) is a practical and effective approach to leadership development that Jesus Himself used in training His disciples.

I. MODEL: LEAD BY EXAMPLE

  1. Jesus Modeled Leadership: Throughout the Gospels, Jesus constantly modeled the life and ministry He wanted His disciples to replicate. He showed them how to pray (Luke 11:1-4), how to serve (John 13:1-17), how to proclaim the Kingdom (Matthew 4:17), and how to depend on the Holy Spirit (John 14:16-17).
  2. Live What You Teach: To develop leaders, start by modeling what you expect from them. Whether it’s how to lead a small group, pray for others, or share the Gospel, show them how it’s done. Be transparent in your own walk with Christ, allowing them to see both your strengths and your areas of growth.
  3. Intentional Observation: As you model, allow them to watch you closely. Just as Jesus’ disciples were with Him in His daily ministry, invite your future leaders to join you in practical ministry experiences—whether it’s leading Bible studies, prayer meetings, or evangelistic efforts.

II. ASSIST: GUIDE AND SUPPORT

  1. Jesus Assisted His Disciples: After modeling ministry, Jesus didn’t just send His disciples out alone. He gave them opportunities to serve under His guidance. For instance, in Luke 9:1-6, Jesus sent out the Twelve, giving them instructions and authority, but He was still present to support them.
  2. Provide Opportunities to Lead: As you develop leaders, allow them to assist you in ministry tasks. This could mean co-leading a Bible study, helping with prayer ministry, or practicing evangelism together. Assist them by offering guidance, answering questions, and providing feedback.
  3. Training Through Partnership: Ministry partnership is crucial in this phase. The person you’re training should feel like a partner in ministry rather than an observer. Walk alongside them as they take on increasing responsibility.
  4. Encourage Learning Through Action: People learn best by doing. Let them try new roles, even if they don’t get it right the first time. Provide constructive feedback, focusing on both what went well and what could be improved.

III. WATCH: STEP BACK AND OBSERVE

  1. Jesus Watched His Disciples: After modeling and assisting, Jesus stepped back to observe His disciples in action. When the disciples returned from their ministry assignments, Jesus listened to their reports and gave them feedback (Luke 10:17-20). This process allowed them to reflect on their experiences while receiving input from Jesus.
  2. Let Them Lead: Once they’ve gained confidence, step back and let them take the lead. Whether it’s leading a group, teaching a Bible study, or coordinating outreach, allow them to have control while you watch from the sidelines.
  3. Provide Constructive Feedback: After they’ve led, offer encouragement and constructive feedback. Focus on their strengths while gently addressing areas for growth. Be specific—this helps them know what they did well and what to work on next time.
  4. Encourage Reflection: Ask them to reflect on their leadership experience. What did they feel went well? What were the challenges? This self-reflection process helps them grow in their awareness and leadership abilities.

IV. LEAVE: EMPOWER AND RELEASE

  1. Jesus Released His Disciples: Jesus’ goal was not to keep His disciples dependent on Him forever but to empower and release them to carry out His mission. After His resurrection, Jesus gave them the Great Commission (Matthew 28:18-20) and sent them into the world to make disciples on their own.
  2. Empower Them to Lead: Once the leader is ready, release them to lead independently. This doesn’t mean abandoning them but trusting that they can lead without your direct involvement. Stay available for support, but empower them to take ownership of the ministry.
  3. Multiplication Mindset: Encourage them not only to lead but to start developing new leaders themselves. The goal of developing leaders is not just to add more leaders but to multiply leaders who will multiply others.
  4. Regular Check-Ins: After leaving, continue to check in with them periodically. Offer guidance, encouragement, and prayer as they continue in their leadership role. Ensure they feel supported even as they operate independently.

V. PRACTICAL STEPS FOR DEVELOPING LEADERS

  1. Identify Potential Leaders: Pray for God’s guidance in identifying people who are faithful, teachable, and ready to grow. Look for those who are already demonstrating a heart for others and are committed to following Jesus.
  2. Model Ministry: Lead by example, showing potential leaders how to lead a group, share the Gospel, and care for others. Let them see you in action, whether in Bible studies, evangelism, or pastoral care.
  3. Provide Opportunities to Assist: Invite potential leaders to assist you in ministry. Give them increasing responsibility, allowing them to take the lead in small ways before fully releasing them.
  4. Watch and Evaluate: Step back and let them lead while you watch. Afterward, provide constructive feedback, celebrating their successes and offering insights for improvement.
  5. Release and Empower: When they are ready, release them to lead on their own. Trust them with the responsibility and encourage them to start the process of developing new leaders.

93624.2 Lesson 2. Selecting Leaders

I. INTRODUCTION: THE IMPORTANCE OF DEVELOPING LEADERS

  1. The Need for Multiplication through Leadership:
  1. One of the primary goals of disciple-making movements is to create a multiplying effect, where disciples become disciple-makers and leaders who develop other leaders. This multiplication is critical for the spread of the Gospel and the expansion of God’s Kingdom.
  2. Developing Leaders: Developing leaders is not just about teaching them skills; it’s about shaping their character, equipping them for ministry, and giving them opportunities to lead others in making disciples. Jesus spent His ministry not just teaching the crowds but intentionally investing in a few who would carry on His work.

II. LEADERSHIP IN THE EXAMPLE OF JESUS

  1. Jesus Chose Twelve to Lead: While Jesus taught many, He selected twelve apostles to be His closest disciples and future leaders. He intentionally spent more time with these men, modeling ministry and giving them increasing responsibility (Mark 3:13-14).
  2. Jesus Sent Them Out: Jesus didn’t keep His disciples as passive learners. He empowered them to go out, preach the Gospel, and perform miracles in His name (Luke 9:1-6). By giving them the authority and responsibility to act, He prepared them to continue His ministry.
  3. Jesus Invested in a Few for Maximum Impact: Jesus invested the majority of His time in a few key leaders—Peter, James, and John. This deeper investment in a smaller group ensured that these leaders would have the depth of knowledge, experience, and relationship with Him to lead others after His departure.

III. THE PROCESS OF SELECTING LEADERS

  1. Praying for God’s Guidance:
  1. Jesus Prayed Before Selecting Leaders: Before choosing His twelve apostles, Jesus spent the entire night in prayer (Luke 6:12-13). Developing leaders starts with prayer. We must ask God to guide us in identifying the right people who are called to leadership and have the potential to multiply.
  2. Pray for God’s Discernment: Seek God’s wisdom to discern who has the character, humility, and faithfulness necessary to lead others. The Bible emphasizes the importance of character in leadership (1 Timothy 3:1-7). You are not just looking for skills but for people whose lives reflect the heart of Christ.
  1. Looking for Faithful and Teachable Disciples:
  1. Faithfulness Over Talent: 2 Timothy 2:2 says, “And the things you have heard me say in the presence of many witnesses entrust to reliable people who will also be qualified to teach others.” Look for people who are reliable, faithful, and committed to following Jesus. They don’t have to be the most talented, but they should be committed to learning and growing.
  2. Teachable Hearts: Leaders are learners. Look for those who are teachable—people who are open to feedback, willing to admit mistakes, and eager to grow in their walk with Christ. Humility is a key characteristic of a teachable leader (Proverbs 11:2).
  1. Investing in “Persons of Peace”:
  1. Person of Peace: In Luke 10:5-7, Jesus instructs His disciples to look for a “person of peace” when entering a new town. This is someone who is receptive to the Gospel, welcoming, and influential in their community. A person of peace can often be a natural leader, someone through whom the Gospel can spread to their entire relational network.
  1. Choosing Potential Leaders: Look for individuals who have a natural influence over others and are already respected within their social circles. These people are often the ones who can multiply disciples by using their networks to spread the Gospel.