Greg Ogden, Executive Pastor of Discipleship, Christ Church of Oak Brook, writes, “If we are to devise a successful strategy of disciple making in our churches, we must first assess the gap between where we are and where we are called to go.”
He reminds us that “One of the consistent images in the New Testament for the Christian life is the discipline of an athlete. Comparing the Christian life to a race, Paul wrote, ‘Do you not know that in a race all the runners run, but only one gets the prize? Run in such a way as to get the prize. Everyone who competes in the games goes into strict training’ (1 Cor. 9:24–25). In making this comparison, Paul raised the bar. If athletes will put themselves through a harsh regimen to get a ‘perishable wreath,’ how much more should Christians discipline themselves because our goal is ‘an imperishable one!’ One is left with an obvious impression that leading the Christian life is going to require spiritual discipline.'”
Greg adds, “According to Barna, fewer than one in five born-again adults has any specific and measurable goals related to his or her own spiritual development. Barna interviewed hundreds of people, including church leaders and pastors, and yet, shockingly, he concluded, ‘Not one of the adults we interviewed said that their goal in life was to be a committed follower of Jesus Christ or to make disciples of the entire world—or even their entire block.’ Dallas Willard adds the exclamation point, ‘The fact is that there is now lacking a serious and expectant intention to bring Jesus’ people into obedience and abundance through training.’”
In this free download, Greg explores the deficit that must be filled if making self-initiating, reproducing, fully devoted followers of Christ is to become our new reality. The purpose of this analysis is to help you assess the gap between where you are and where you want to go. At the end of each section, take the opportunity to identify the gap between the biblical standard and the reality of your ministry. Quietly pause and ask the Holy Spirit to allow you to receive the truth that will help you make disciples for life.
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Volunteer Tip
Curriculum that is faithful to God’s Word helps you recruit and keep volunteers. Trustworthy curriculum builds confidence because an inexperienced teacher/volunteer will not have to prepare a lesson from scratch. It is much easier for volunteers to prepare the content of an existing lesson than to create new resource materials. Curriculum can be a great tool for training volunteers—and can help you achieve your ministry goals.
Teacher & Parent Training Opportunities
Training teachers and equipping parents are at the heart of DiscipleLand’s mission. That’s why we offer onsite training opportunities, free online video training and webinars, conferences, and direct access to our seasoned trainers. Learn more …
Training Resources
In Step With The Master Teacher
This training resource from BCM International is the definitive tool for preparing and training teachers for children’s ministry. You’ll enjoy 22 hours of integrated, Biblical teacher training, including fully scripted training notes, reproducible worksheets, and full-color visuals for printing or PowerPoint presentation. Learn more …
Your Training Remedy
This downloadable resource by Judy Wortley will help you develop a consistent and well-planned program of teacher training that will motivate, encourage, and inform your volunteers. Inspire teachers to be and do their best! Learn more …
Your Recruiting Remedy
You’ll discover field-tested recruiting strategies that really work! Take a fresh look at the recruiting process to find techniques that will help you succeed! A downloadable resource by Judy Wortley. Learn more …
As you consider what God desires for your ministry, take a look at our complete Children’s Discipleship System. This precept-on-precept System ensures that children achieve balanced growth in Bible knowledge, Christ-like character, and faithful conduct—everything kids need to live as devoted Christ-followers. Get your Free Catalog Today.
