Engaging Their Community
A gathering turns into a critical discussion on how to multiply churches.
Paul* from Ecclesia Ministries (formerly Community Transformation Ministries) leads a group of disciples in western Sudan. Their conversation shifts to church planting and how they can all grow by gaining experience discipling each other.
Paul recalls some comments made during the discussion as he challenged the group with the question:
“How will the people open their hearts and give time to listen to the Gospel?”
Sam* said, “To me, I am not only thinking that I am going to preach the gospel, but I am also carrying the message of peace.”
Barak* said, “If people understand this message, especially elders, they will want us to go to preach to their people!”
“The Gospel message has the power to change one’s life. I have seen the dynamic change in my own life.” Mohamed* said. “My family is the first priority. I need to share the Gospel with them.”
And Sur* said, “Without you pastor, we wouldn’t be what we are today. We need to follow God and take the same path you took so that we can also train others.”
There was a change in this group as they wrestled together with how to reach their neighbors, their communities, their coworkers, and their families with the gospel.
At Known, we see that multiplying local churches is critical to engaging a world with the gospel. Throughout the New Testament, as disciples obey Jesus’ call to make disciples, church planting marks their response. This small group is dreaming about how to engage their community and multiply their church.
*Names altered to protect the identity of those working in areas of increased persecution.