A story of Buddhist monks embracing the good news of Jesus.
A group of young Buddhist monks, dressed in their saffron robes, joined a local karate class in Sri Lanka.
Theo, one of the monks, was struggling terribly. In his efforts to find peace for his soul, he had become addicted to marijuana.
Nothing brought him freedom.
Theo finally approached Kasun, the karate master, for help.
Kasun had the peace and confidence that Theo longed for. Kasun’s demeanor went beyond the years of karate discipline and study—he had surrendered his life to Jesus Christ.
Unlocking Peace with Global Disciples
And he had received Global Disciples training there in Sri Lanka.
Kasun had moved to a village that was 100% Buddhist after his Global Disciples training. He decided to offer karate classes to create opportunities to share the Good News of Jesus.
The response was overwhelming! And that’s how he met Theo and introduced him to the Gospel.
Theo, this Buddhist monk with no true understanding of Christ, came to know Jesus as his Savior and Lord through Kasun’s compassionate witness and this karate class.
The Good News
Then he started proclaiming the Good News of Jesus! Since he was still wearing the robe of a Buddhist monk, it made the local people very angry. So, he recanted his vows to Buddhism, shed his saffron robe, and received the same discipleship-mission training Kasun had taken.
Theo then went back to his home village to share the Gospel. His family members and many others came to Christ. Some experienced physical healing in the name of Jesus. Others were delivered from evil spirits when he prayed.
When Sri Lanka—an island nation the size of West Virginia—slid into a humanitarian crisis in 2022, and food and fuel grew scarce, Theo, Kasun, and other disciples of Jesus went to work to help their communities find food and basic essentials. They continue to seek ways to share Christ’s love to those around them, even at great personal sacrifice.
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!
“A voice of one calling: ‘In the desert prepare the way for the LORD…’” (Isaiah 40:3‑5). Prayer changes everything. So what exactly is groundbreaking prayer?
Preparing the way of the Lord is critical if the Gospel is to penetrate regions still unreached with the Good News.
The influence of evil has been entrenched in many places for generations. When disciples of Jesus are few or nonexistent, Global Disciples affirms sending Groundbreaking Prayer Teams onsite to “prepare the way of the Lord.”
This is not a new approach.
In Luke 10, Jesus commissioned teams to go before Him and prepare regions for His ministry. These teams were called to pray—asking the Lord of the harvest to send forth workers—and to be a living demonstration of God’s kingdom and power where He had not yet been revealed. At the end of their assignment, Jesus described the impact of their ministry in the spiritual realm, saying, “I saw Satan fall like lightning from heaven” (Luke 10:18).
As we pray—with feet on the ground—we gain a heightened awareness of the nature and extent of the spiritual strongholds that blind and capture people’s spirits. Onsite prayer releases a deposit of faith in Jesus Christ into the land and the atmosphere of the area.
This past year, Global Disciples prayer leaders, program directors, and local intercessors undertook groundbreaking prayer in places like Indonesia, India, Mexico, Brazil, Uganda, Kenya, Ethiopia, Zambia, and Cameroon. Other trips included regions of Nigeria, Tanzania, and Myanmar.
When a prayer team in east Nepal conducted a regional Groundbreaking Prayer Trip, they prayed at a place known as Suicide Point. A tall tree overhangs a high cliff and many people have taken their lives by jumping from that spot. The intercessors prayed that this spirit of death would be replaced by life, and for salvation for the families grieving their lost loved ones.
From this high place, the prayer team could see surrounding villages. Our Global Disciples Program Director from the area pointed out that none of those villages had a church yet or even a small fellowship of believers.
The next day, the program director led a smaller team to one of the villages, to walk and pray and prepare the way for Jesus. “They met a lady called Rupa who was demonized,” our Regional Prayer Leader for Nepal reported. “The intercessors prayed and the demon left her. She gave her life to Christ. The Director and his team are meeting with her regularly.” Perhaps Rupa is the beginning of a new church in that unreached village!
Global Disciples currently has thirteen prayer leaders around the world, working to increase prayer groups and nurture movements in their region. The focus of these prayer groups is to give all people an opportunity to hear the love and truth of Jesus.
Groundbreaking Prayer is one strategy for which they are equipping prayer teams. Our Nepali leader said, “Please pray that all our prayer teams will organize Groundbreaking Prayer Trips locally.”
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!
So many people around the world face each day without knowing that God loves them. Or that His own Son, Jesus, died for them, and rose from the dead—all to give them hope and the opportunity to enjoy Him forever. How can we reach more people?
What can you and I do? Realistically, can we “reach least-reached people”? It’s a big question.
How can we reach the more than the 321 million Muslims of North Africa, and the Middle East—with little or no witness to Jesus Christ? That number of people is close to the entire population of the United States.
What about China with 462 ethnic minority people who are considered unevangelized? There are only a few believers and churches within these groups. And only a small percentage of the 1.2 billion Han Chinese are followers of Christ.
Then there are 1.1 billion Hindus in Nepal, India, and across South Asia. What can we do to point them to the one true God, among the thousands of Hindu gods? Or the 494 million people of Buddhist background, mainly in Southeast Asia, determined to find enlightenment—but never knowing Jesus, the Light of the World.
Is there a way to reach the one-third of our world that is still waiting to hear the Good News of Jesus in a way they can respond?
Yes, there is! We can work together to equip and mobilize the Body of Christ around the world. We can train and send out those who follow Jesus and who already live within reach of these unreached people groups.
These disciples have access to regions where North American Christians can’t go. But Muslims who have come to know Jesus can reach their people. Chinese Christians can. Former Hindus and Buddhists can share the freedom found in Christ with their people.
As Global Disciples, we focus on reaching those who have yet to hear the Good News of Jesus.
We believe one of the most effective ways to do this is by working with and through the global Body of Christ. Global Disciples work side-by-side with believers and indigenous churches around the world, we can be part of reaching those who have yet to hear the Good News of Jesus.
It’s a big job—a task that seems impossible. But with God, nothing is impossible.
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!
So, you’ve taken the step to follow Jesus, and you’re wondering what comes next? Or maybe you’ve been journeying on this faith path for a while and are looking to deepen your understanding? Uncover the profound impact of discipleship classes on individual spiritual growth, community building & gospel mission.
We’ve designed this class to serve as a spiritual toolbox of sorts. It’s a place where believers, can be equipped with the necessary teachings and resources to grow in their faith.
1. Key Elements of a Discipleship Class
An effective discipleship class embraces several crucial elements to ensure spiritual growth, relationship-building, and gospel-sharing among its participants:
- Biblical Teaching: A deep understanding of Scripture is foundational for any believer’s faith journey. Discipleship classes must focus on in-depth scriptural study, discussion, and practical application in daily life.
- Testimony Sharing: Encouraging group members to share their faith journey, personal experiences, and newfound insights. This leads to meaningful conversations that build empathy and understanding among participants.
- Prayer and Reflection: Regular moments of prayer and reflection nurture spiritual growth, guiding believers to seek God’s guidance.
- Support and Encouragement: Classes serve as a caring environment, fostering encouragement for believers to face challenges together in faith.
2. Personal Spiritual Growth in Discipleship Classes
Discipleship classes create a nurturing atmosphere for holistic spiritual growth by impacting multiple dimensions of a believer’s life:
- Deepening Relationship with God: Engaging with Scripture and prayer enables believers to deepen their relationship with God.
- Character Formation: Discipleship class participants are encouraged to embody Christian virtues such as humility, patience, selflessness, and kindness. This results in personal transformation and growth.
- Discernment and Decision Making:
- Equipping for Ministry: Active participation in discipleship classes prepares believers for various ministry opportunities & equips them to share the gospel.
3. The Power of Community in Discipleship Classes
- Accountability: Discipleship classes bring believers together, fostering accountability for their spiritual growth, actions, and commitments.
- Mutual Support and Encouragement: Discipleship classes enable believers to support, motivate, and uplift each other, fostering resilience, perseverance, and growth.
- Sharing of Gifts and Talents: A diverse group of participants can share their unique gifts, skills, and talents with the discipleship class. Thus, contributing to the enrichment and edification of the group as a whole.
- Collaborative Ministry: A shared mission within the discipleship class lays the groundwork for collaborative ministry efforts. Participants learn to poo resources, and work together towards reaching out to others in need.
4. Impact of Discipleship Classes on Least-Reached Communities
Discipleship classes play a crucial role in preparing and equipping believers to share the good news of Jesus Christ with individuals from the least-reached communities:
- Cultivating a Heart for Missions: Discipleship classes inspire a passion for fulfilling the Great Commission and a genuine concern for those who have yet to experience the saving grace of Jesus Christ.
- Equipping for Evangelism: Discipleship classes offer biblical education, personal testimony sharing, and ministry practice opportunities, honing believers’ ability to communicate the gospel message to others effectively.
- Encouraging Outreach Efforts: The power of community established within discipleship classes allows believers to support one another in outreach and evangelism, thus promoting teamwork and collaboration in fulfilling the Great Commission.
- Creating Long-lasting Connections: Discipleship classes foster long-term relationships with least-reached communities, leading to a lasting impact and ongoing opportunities for transformation.
5. Global Disciples Canada’s Approach to Discipleship Classes
Global Disciples Canada acknowledges the immense potential of discipleship classes for nurturing and equipping believers, thus impacting least-reached communities. Their approach emphasises specific core principles:
- Fostering Local Leadership: By identifying, training, and empowering local leaders, Global Disciples Canada ensures the discipleship initiatives are culturally relevant, sustainable, and grounded in the realities of the targeted communities.
- Prioritising Contextualization: Discipleship strategies are tailored to the unique cultural and social aspects of various communities, ensuring maximal engagement with, and understanding of, the gospel message.
- Facilitating Income Generation: Equipping discipleship classes with practical strategies for sustainable income generation, Global Disciples Canada bolsters their self-sufficiency and long-term sustainability.
- Building Collaborative Networks: Encouraging partnerships and collaboration among local churches and ministries, Global Disciples Canada leverages collective resources and skills to effectively engage in least-reached communities and share the good news of Jesus Christ.
Discipleship classes hold the power to transform lives through Scripture, prayer, and community, empowering believers to engage in spreading the gospel and impacting least-reached communities.
Your Journey Starts with a Discipleship Class
Are you ready to embark on a life-changing journey of discipleship programs in Canada? Together, you can grow in faith, transform communities, and model Christ’s love to those who seek His message of hope, grace, and salvation.
Global Disciples Canada is a Christian mission organisation 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 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 organisation to partner with to become a better disciple and help make disciples, connect with us today!
Jesus Christ is a central figure in Christianity. His mission on earth was to preach the Gospel, heal the sick, and perform miracles to demonstrate his divinity. One of the most significant aspects of Jesus’ ministry was his willingness to lend a helping hand to those in need. Throughout the Bible, there are many notable moments where Jesus showed compassion, healing, and provision to those who came to him. These stories are important not only for their miraculous nature but also for the message they convey about the character of Jesus and his mission on earth.
a) Jesus Lends A Helping Hand And Heals a Paralytic (Mark 2:1-12)
In Mark 2:1-12, Jesus heals a paralytic who is brought to him by his friends. The story takes place in Capernaum, where Jesus is preaching in a crowded house. The paralytic’s friends are unable to get him through the door, so they remove the roof and lower him down to Jesus. Seeing their faith, Jesus tells the paralytic that his sins are forgiven and then commands him to rise, take up his bed, and walk. The man is immediately healed and walks out of the house, to the amazement of the crowd.
This story is significant for several reasons. First, it demonstrates Jesus’ power to heal physical ailments. The paralytic had been unable to walk for a long time, and his healing was a miraculous event that showed the crowd that Jesus was not just an ordinary man. Second, it shows Jesus’ compassion for those who are suffering. He could have simply forgiven the man’s sins and left it at that, but he chose to heal him as well, showing that he cared about the man’s physical well-being as well as his spiritual health.
b) Jesus Lends A Helping Hand and Feeds the 5,000 (John 6:1-15)
In John 6:1-15, Jesus feeds a crowd of 5,000 people with just five loaves of bread and two fish. The story takes place near the Sea of Galilee, where Jesus is preaching to a large crowd. As the day wears on, the disciples become concerned that the people will be hungry and suggest that Jesus send them away to find food. Instead, Jesus tells them to gather what food they can find, and he blesses it and distributes it to the crowd. Everyone is able to eat their fill, and there are even leftovers.
This story is significant for several reasons. First, it shows Jesus’ generosity and provision. He could have sent the crowd away hungry, but instead, he chose to provide for them in a miraculous way. Second, it demonstrates Jesus’ supernatural power over nature. The fact that he was able to feed so many people with so little food is a miraculous event that shows his divinity. Finally, it shows the disciples that they can trust Jesus to provide for their needs, even in seemingly impossible situations.
c) Jesus Lends A Helping Hand And Calms the Storm (Mark 4:35-41)
In Mark 4:35-41, Jesus calms a storm that threatens to capsize the boat he and his disciples are in. The story takes place on the Sea of Galilee, where Jesus and his disciples are crossing to the other side. Suddenly, a fierce storm arises, and the disciples become afraid for their lives. They wake Jesus, who rebukes the wind and the waves and commands them to be still. The storm immediately calms, and the disciples are amazed.
This story is significant for several reasons. By rebuking the storm, he demonstrates that he has power over even the world’s most chaotic and unpredictable elements. Second, it shows Jesus’ compassion for his disciples. He could have simply let them face the storm on their own, but instead, he chose to calm it and save their lives. Finally, it shows the disciples that they can trust Jesus even in the most frightening and uncertain situations.
d) Jesus Heals Blind Bartimaeus (Mark 10:46-52)
The story of Blind Bartimaeus is a powerful demonstration of Jesus’ healing power and compassion. Bartimaeus was a blind beggar who cried out to Jesus for mercy as he passed by. Despite the crowd’s attempts to silence him, Bartimaeus persisted in his cries for help. Finally, Jesus called him over and asked him what he wanted. Bartimaeus replied, “Rabbi, I want to see.” Jesus then healed him, saying, “Go, your faith has healed you.”
The healing of Blind Bartimaeus was not only important for him but for the witnesses as well. They saw firsthand the power of Jesus’ compassion and faith. Jesus didn’t just heal Bartimaeus physically, but he also restored his dignity and sense of worth as a person. This healing also served as a reminder that Jesus came to heal and save all people, regardless of their social status or physical condition.
e) Jesus Raises Lazarus from the Dead (John 11:1-44)
The story of Lazarus is one of the most well-known miracles of Jesus. Lazarus was a close friend of Jesus, and when he fell ill and died, Jesus wept and then raised him from the dead. This miracle was important not only for Lazarus but also for his sisters and the mourners. They witnessed the power of Jesus’ love and compassion and saw that death was not the end.
The raising of Lazarus also foreshadowed Jesus’ own resurrection, which would come just a few days later. This miracle was a powerful reminder that Jesus had power over death and that he came to bring new life to all who believed in him.
f) Jesus Washes His Disciples’ Feet (John 13:1-17)
The story of Jesus washing his disciples’ feet is a powerful example of his humility and service to others. In this story, Jesus is preparing for the Last Supper with his disciples when he removes his outer robe, ties a towel around his waist, and begins washing their feet. Peter protests, but Jesus tells him that unless he allows Jesus to wash his feet, he has no part with him.
This act of service was important not only for the disciples but for all readers of the Bible. It was a reminder that Jesus came to serve, not to be served, and that true greatness comes from humility and service to others. This act also served as an example for his followers to follow and emulate.
Conclusion
The stories of Jesus lending a helping hand are significant for believers and non-believers alike. They show the compassion, love, and humility of Jesus, and they serve as a reminder of his mission to heal and save all people. These stories continue to inspire and guide believers today and serve as powerful witnesses to the truth of Jesus’ message. As we reflect on these stories, may we be inspired to follow in Jesus’ footsteps, serving and loving others with the same compassion and humility that he demonstrated.
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 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 hoping to undergo Christian disciple training or are simply looking for a Christian mission organization to partner with to become a better disciple and help make disciples, connect with us today!
Throughout history, the Gospel message has been spreading to all corners of the world. From the apostles of Jesus Christ to modern-day evangelists, people have shared the good news of salvation through Jesus Christ.
Here, we will explore why it is crucial to share the Gospel and how it can transform lives.
What is the Gospel?
The Gospel message is the core belief of Christianity. The good news that Jesus Christ came to earth to save us from our sins and reconcile us to God.
The word “Gospel” means “good news”. And it is the message that brings hope, peace, and salvation to those who believe in Jesus Christ.
The Gospel message begins with the understanding that all human beings have sinned and fallen short of the glory of God (Romans 3:23). Our sin separates us from God, and we cannot save ourselves.
But God, in His great love, sent His Son Jesus Christ to die on the cross for our sins and rise again on the third day, conquering death and offering us eternal life (John 3:16).
As Ephesians 2:8-9 says, “For it is by grace you have been saved, through faith—and this is not from yourselves, it is the gift of God—not by works, so that no one can boast.”
The Gospel message is a message of hope and salvation for all who believe in Jesus Christ. It is a message that we must share with the world.
The Urgent Call to Share the Gospel
Jesus Christ gave His followers the Great Commission to go and make disciples of all nations. In Matthew 28:18-20, Jesus said, “All authority in heaven and on earth has been given to me. Therefore, go and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father, the Son, and the Holy Spirit and teaching them to obey everything I have commanded. And surely, I am with you to the very end of the age.”
This commandment is not optional for believers. It is a call to action that we must very take seriously.
In addition, the apostle Paul also emphasized the urgency of sharing the Gospel. In Romans 10:13-15, he wrote, “Everyone who calls on the name of the Lord will be saved. How can they call on the one they have not believed in? And how can they believe in the one whom they have not heard? …how can they hear without someone preaching to them? And how can anyone preach unless they are sent? As it is written: ‘How beautiful are the feet of those who bring good news!”
We must understand, like Paul, that the Gospel message must be proclaimed so people can hear it. Then they have an opportunity to believe it, and be saved. He recognized that the Gospel message was not just for a select few but for all people. He thought it was every believer’s responsibility to share this message with those who had yet to hear it.
Transforming Lives
The Gospel message has the power to transform lives. When people really connect with this message, they are given hope. They realize that they are not alone in their struggles. And begin to connect with a God who loves them and wants to save them. The Gospel message offers forgiveness for sins and a new life in Christ.
In 2 Corinthians 5:17, Paul wrote, “Therefore, if anyone is in Christ, the new creation has come: The old has gone, the new is here!” The Gospel message offers a new beginning for those who believe in Jesus Christ. It is a message of transformation that can change people’s lives forever.
The Gospel message also has the power to bring people together. In Ephesians 2:14-16, Paul wrote, “For he is our peace, who has made the two groups one and has destroyed the barrier, the dividing wall of hostility, by setting aside in his flesh the law with its commands and regulations. His purpose was to create one new humanity out of the two, thus making peace, and in one body to reconcile both of them to God through the cross, by which he put to death their hostility.”
Sharing the Gospel with My Neighbors
Have you ever felt intimidated by sharing your testimony? Sometimes, the idea of evangelism can be intimidating, especially when sharing the Gospel with our neighbours. However, sharing the Gospel with our neighbours can be one of the most effective ways to spread the message of salvation through Jesus Christ.
A straightforward way to share the Gospel with our neighbours is to build relationships with them. We can show them love and kindness, take an interest in their lives, and be positively present in our community. As we build trust and rapport with our neighbours, we can look for opportunities to share our faith and the Gospel message with them.
We can also invite our neighbours to church events and activities, such as a community service project or a worship service. This can be a non-threatening way to introduce them to the Gospel message and allow them to experience the love and community of the church.
Ultimately, sharing the Gospel with our neighbours is about being intentional and prayerful. We must step out of our comfort zones and trust God to guide us in our evangelism efforts. When we share the Gospel with our neighbours, we sow hope and transformation that can impact lives for eternity.
Conclusion
The Gospel message is the good news of salvation through Jesus Christ. But, friend, the urgency of this call cannot be overstated. People’s lives are at stake, and we have a message that can transform them. We must not keep this message to ourselves. Instead, we must be bold in sharing it with others.
If you have a heart for sharing the Gospel and reaching people in their nations and cultures, consider partnering with Global Disciples Canada. Our simple and effective strategy of training and coaching gospel preachers has had a powerful impact on communities worldwide.
By supporting our mission, you can equip believers to share the good news of salvation through Jesus Christ with those who have never heard it. Join us in fulfilling the Great Commission and making disciples of all nations. Why no visit our website today to learn more about how you can get involved.
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!
The message of Christ has made its way across the world, touching the hearts of people from all nations for generations. But, many unreached people groups still need to hear the good news of salvation today. In this blog, we’ll explore the importance of spreading the gospel via preaching, to all corners of the world.
Focus Should Be on God’s Majesty and Greatness
Preaching is not a mere display of the preacher’s knowledge or skills. It is an opportunity to teach the greatness of the God of the Bible to the congregation. Preaching should be an inspiring experience. It should leaves listeners with a deeper understanding of God’s holy, majestic, and loving character as revealed in Scripture.
A preacher’s role in the pulpit is an important one. Scripture speaks about this in Psalms 119:160, Matthew 4:4, Romans 15:4, and 2 Timothy 3:16-17).The preacher’s primary goal should be to bring glory to God by platforming His greatness through the sermon. Lets explore the importance of keeping God at the center of preaching.
Must Be Biblically-Sound and Theologically Grounded
Preaching should be rooted in a biblically-centred approach. This requires a commitment to biblical theology, historical theology, and practical theology to be an effective and faithful preacher.
Theological study benefits the preacher and the congregation by making sure the message they hear is biblically-sound and theologically helpful.
The Role of Prayer and Dependence on the Holy Spirit in Preaching
A good preacher recognizes his complete dependence on Christ and his need for Gods power. He prays as he studies throughout the week. He is utterly reliant on the Lord for wisdom, grace, and strength to deliver God’s Word effectively.
However, his dependence on God does not end with prayer. He must be willing to go in directions that he had not planned to, as the Spirit leads. In doing so, he can help real people with real hurts and questions, not simply reciting a memorized speech.
Discipline and Diligence in Preaching the Gospel
Being Spirit-led is crucial in preaching but it is not an excuse for poor preparation. In particular, he must pay attention to 2 Timothy 2:15 and diligently work to accurately handle the truths of the Bible. This requires discipline, hard work, and toiling in study.
We Must Proclaim God’s Word with Boldness and Confidence
The preacher needs to stand up to share his opinions or suggestions. He is not a motivational speaker or a self-help guru holding a Bible. Instead, like the prophets of the Old Testament and the apostles of the New Testament, the preacher must be willing to proclaim, with boldness, “Thus saith the Lord.” He does so because he knows that the power rests with God and His Word, not with the preacher himself.
The preacher must be confident in his authority as a sent messenger and ambassador of God.
The Call to Action in Preaching the Gospel
Preaching is not merely lecturing, as it goes beyond teaching by calling on the listener to take action in response to the content of the sermon. While the preacher may suggest specific application points for the church, it is ultimately the Spirit of God who convicts hearts and moves individuals to act in response to the preaching.
For believers, a faithfully-prepared sermon will be driven by the Spirit into the heart of God’s people, convicting them of sin and spurring them towards greater holiness and Christlikeness. For unbelievers, such a sermon will convict them of sin, righteousness, and judgment, potentially leading to salvation for those who are among God’s elect or condemnation for those who remain under God’s wrath.
Closing Remarks
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 has yet to hear 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!
Canada is a magnificent country, filled with splendid scenery. The citizens are always friendly and embrace a peaceful way of life. We are not known for starting the conflict, and saying ‘sorry’ is a common way of expressing ourselves. Explaining you are Canadian is usually met with pleasant surprise and admiration. Yet despite Canada’s high esteem worldwide, our nation needs your petitions in upcoming prayer meetings.
Driving Home the Need
Mario Simard, a member of parliament, is fighting to get rid of the daily prayer that starts the House of Commons proceedings because he believes that Canada should be secular. The national trend is that Canadians are becoming more secular, which is reflected in the government. Even if the prayer is not voted out, it’s clear that secularism is becoming the norm in Canada.
In the Canadian province of Quebec, Bill 21 was recently passed, which forbids certain occupations from wearing any religious symbols or clothing. This is a major step towards removing religion from the public sphere. Additionally, Bill C-4 has been proposed, which could restrict the public discussion of gender, marriage, and sexuality according to the Bible. These two bills indicate the secularization of society, and the Church is preparing for the possible consequences of these laws.
Another alarming concern is that we celebrate assisted suicide. Betty Sanguin is an example of this, as she chose to end her life in her local Church in 2022 through medical assistance in dying (MAID). From March 2023, people with mental illness in Canada can access medical assistance in dying, meaning they can legally end their lives. This is worrying as it shows that some people who may need help and support instead choose to take their own lives.
How to Pray for Canada
Canada is undergoing an immense change in its legal environment, and the international Church should take this shift seriously. We must come together in prayer meetings nationwide as we embark on a new path.
Pray For Revival
We should pray for our country to experience a spiritual revival. Lets ask God to work in our hearts so that we can recognize His goodness and His power. We need to pray for an awakening of the Church to witness the power of Jesus’ message and the beauty of His love. Only then will our nation experience the dominion mentioned in Psalm 72:8 and live in the peace and joy of God’s presence.
Pray For God’s Sovereignty
We must put our faith in God, trusting He is the ultimate power in our lives and our nation. We have the right to use our voices to share our views and be involved in Canada’s direction, but ultimately our trust must be in the Lord. Just as Jesus told the Church in Philadelphia in Revelation 3:8, we, too, have limited power, but we can remain faithful to His word. We need to rely on prayer, believing that God is in control and will carry out His will, even if we don’t see it immediately.
Pray For Integrity
Prayer is necessary to remain steadfast in our faith, especially when the government or other powerful entities offer us financial incentives to compromise. Per Dwight Bernier in this Radical article, some churches were offered to do summer projects, but with a caveat. They had to agree to a statement opposing what Jesus taught to get the money. This was a quiet attempt to manipulate, much like Nebuchadnezzar did in the Bible.
Although it was only a small amount, some needed it desperately. Still, they had to choose between accepting the money and staying true to their beliefs. Shortly, this type of situation will likely come up again. We must rely on prayer to remain firm in our faith.
Pray For New Workers
Jesus taught us that asking for help from the Lord is essential. We can ask Him to provide workers from local and foreign churches willing to come to Canada and serve in His name. May we have faith and trust that He will answer our prayers and bring individuals to share their gifts and talents with the people of this great nation.
Seek Divine Courage
Prayer can help us overcome our fear. We all experience fear in one form or another, seemingly a constant presence among us in the Church. I’m not suggesting that we become bold and overconfident, but rather that we should trust in Christ’s assurance that He is with us and we have nothing to fear. We should live purposefully, sharing the Good News of our Savior and King, with whom we yearn to reunite.
Pray For Church Multiplication
Lastly, let us ask God to grant our churches an expansive outlook and ambition so that we can team up to spread the good news of the Gospel. May we have harmony in our purpose to spread the message of salvation to as many people as possible. Let us envision taking the Gospel into the world and not just building up our churches. May there be a multitude of gospel-centred communities throughout our nation so everyone can experience the love of Christ.
In Closing
We are so grateful for the prayers and support of those in the U.S. It would be amazing to have you come and experience the churches in need here for yourself. If you feel God is leading you to help, we would love to show you how you could make a difference in the lives of our very own fellow citizens.
Join Prayers with Global Disciples Canada
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!
The modern world is full of self-centeredness, which often leads to a lack of generosity. This is particularly true in the Christian community, where it can be difficult to keep the focus on others rather than on our own needs.
Fortunately, there are some simple steps we can take to become more generous Christians.
Here are seven steps to follow to become a more generous Christian.
1. Pray for God’s Help
Prayer is an important part of the Christian life. It is a way to communicate with God and to express our needs and desires. When we pray, we are also asking God to help us in our daily lives.
One of the things we can pray for is to become more generous Christians. Generosity is an important virtue in Christianity. It is about giving ourselves to others, whether it is our time, our talents, or our resources. When we are generous, we are showing our love for others. We are also following the example of Jesus Christ, who was the ultimate example of generosity.
2. Consider Your Finances
While being generous is undoubtedly a good thing, you’ll want to be wise about how you approach all of this. In order to do this, you’ll need to examine and consider your finances and overall financial situation.
Take a look at your financial situation and determine how much money you can give away or donate to charitable causes. Consider setting up a budget for your giving and stick to it. By approaching things this way, you can help ensure your long-term financial wellbeing all while doing good that impacts the lives of countless others.
3. Be Generous with Your Time
Generosity is often thought of as giving money to charity or helping out a friend in need, but it can be so much more than that. Generosity is about giving of yourself – your time, your energy, your resources – to help make someone else’s life better.
There are countless ways to be generous, and each one of us has the opportunity to give in our own unique way. Whether it’s volunteering your time at a local shelter, cooking a meal for a neighbor in need, or simply offering a listening ear to a friend, generosity is always within reach.
4. Be Open to Opportunities
One of the best ways to be generous is to simply keep your eyes and ears open for opportunities to help others. Whether you hear about a family in need through a friend or see a post on social media, there are always ways that you can help. Ask God to help you spot them!
5. Support Organizations That Help Others
Consider supporting organizations that work to help others. Whether it’s a church, a local non-profit, a soup kitchen, or a homeless shelter, there are plenty of organizations that are in need of donations and volunteers.
At Global Disciples Canada we are completely reliant on the generosity of others to be able to assist those living in Africa, Asia, and Latin America with multiply disciples of Jesus.
With so many people struggling to make ends meet, the work of charities and non-profits is vital to helping support our communities. Don’t underestimate the power of your giving because even the smallest of donations can really make a difference.
6. Show Kindness
When was the last time you showed kindness to someone? Maybe it was holding the door open for someone, or giving up your seat on the bus. Whatever the act, big or small, showing kindness is one of the most generous things you can do.
Think about the last time someone showed kindness to you. How did it make you feel? Probably pretty good, right? Showing kindness creates a ripple effect of positivity and can make someone’s day.
It’s important to be kind to others, but it’s also important to be kind to yourself. Treating yourself with compassion can be just as important as treating others with kindness. After all, you deserve it. So go out and spread some kindness today. You’ll be glad you did.
As an added bonus, your acts of kindness may even inspire others to be more generous as well. Remember, the best way to inspire change is to lead by example.
7. Spread the Word
While it is great that you are taking the steps to make a positive change in your life, it shouldn’t end here.
In order to be the best person you can be, it’s important to help people make positive changes in their life as well. One of the best ways to encourage others to be generous is to simply be generous yourself. When you give of your time, your resources, or your talents, others take notice. When you live a life of generosity, you inspire others to do the same. Let others know what you’re doing and encourage them to be generous as well. Whether it’s through word of mouth or social media, spreading the word about generosity can help inspire others to be generous too.
Conclusion
By following these seven steps, you can become a more generous Christian and help make the world a better place. When we use our resources to help others, we can make a real difference in the lives of those around us.
If you need help with the values of Christianity, then you’ve come to the right place.
Global Disciples Canada is a Christian mission organization that trains local leaders living near to 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!
Have you ever felt like you have a calling from God, but you’re not sure what it is? You’re not alone. Many Christians struggle to figure out God’s calling for their lives. It can be a daunting task. But thankfully there are some things you can do to help discern God’s calling for your life.
1. Trust God’s Judgment
The Bible encourages us to have faith in God and to rely on Him with all our hearts. If we acknowledge Him in all our decisions, He will direct us down the right path. We must have trust in the Lord and not rely on our own judgment. God has a purpose for each of us. And His plan is much more wonderful and amazing than our own expectations. If we place our faith in Him, He will lead us to our destiny and provide for our needs.
2. Develop Your Talents
It is our responsibility to nurture the gifts that God has given us and to ensure that we are using them well.
We must let the Spirit of God work through us, and never be afraid to use our talents to serve Him. And through prayer, we can fan the flame of our God-given talents and use them to impact the world around us.
3. Let the Holy Spirit Lead You
We are blessed to have the Spirit of God as our guide. As God’s children, we can be confident that if we are following the will of God, we can expect to be led by the Holy Spirit. As we put our trust in the Lord, He will direct us on the right path and provide us with the wisdom necessary to make decisions that will lead to a great future. We can be assured that the Spirit of God will always lead us in the right direction and provide us with the strength to continue our journey.
4. Understand Yourself in Christ
As a Christian, it is your purpose to build the Kingdom of God. You have been given special gifts and talents from God that you can use to live a life full of His presence and grace. To do this, you must be connected with Jesus and learn about who He is and what He desires for you. The Bible tells us that when we accept Jesus as our Savior, we receive the spirit of wisdom and revelation that leads us closer to Him. Knowing Jesus intimately will change you and give you a deeper understanding of the calling He has for you.
5. Give God Your All
God’s plan for your life can be achieved when you devote your energy, talents, focus and attention to the task at hand. When we give God our all, He will bring out the best in us. The Bible encourages us to pursue the life God has called us to and to remain faithful and committed to His plan, even in the face of opposition. As we grow closer to Christ and distance ourselves from the distractions that keep us apart from Him, it only makes sense to give Him our best.
6. Keep Important Things in Focus
We must remain diligent and focused on God’s will for our lives, or else we will become vulnerable to the enemy’s schemes. The Bible warns us to be wary and keep a close eye on how we live our lives and how we teach others. We must stay true to what is right so that we can be saved and those around us are saved as well. It is vital that we keep our priorities straight so that we are not drawn away from God’s path.
7. Take the First Step
The Bible encourages us to look for the Lord and His might continually. Invite God into your prayers, asking Him to reveal His plans for you and your life. Pray for the faith and boldness to follow Him and His will, regardless of the unknowns. This will help you carry out God’s mission and bring glory to His kingdom.
How to Live a Life That Is Worth the Calling
Living a life worthy of Christ’s calling can be a difficult endeavor, but it is also one of the most rewarding things you can do. In order to live a life worthy of Christ’s calling, you must strive to be an example of His love and grace to others.
1. Make God the Center of Your Life
Make sure that you are spending time with God each day. This could mean praying, reading your Bible, or just spending time in reflection and meditation. Whenever you feel stressed or overwhelmed, remember to turn to God for strength and guidance.
2. Be a Light in the Darkness
It can be easy to get caught up in the darkness of the world around us, but it’s important to remember our role as a beacon of light. Bring a sense of hope and joy to those around you.
3. Love Others
It is important to remember that love is at the center of what God calls us to do. We must strive to love others as we would want to be loved. Show compassion, understanding, and mercy to those around you.
4. Serve Others
We are encouraged by Jesus to reach out and help others. Look for opportunities to lend a hand and make a difference in the lives of those around us or those in need of assistance.
5. Be Humble
Humility is essential to living a life worthy of Christ’s calling. Be honest with yourself and recognize that you are not perfect and that you will make mistakes.
6. Live a Life of Integrity
Make an effort to live in accordance with your values and principles. Do your best to be honest and ethical in everything you do.
7. Persevere
It is easy to give up when things get difficult, but it is important to remember that God calls us to persevere. Don’t be discouraged by setbacks; instead, stay focused and keep striving for what God has called you to do.
Conclusion
Striving to lead a life that is pleasing to God is no easy feat. But when we accept His grace and trust in His wisdom, we have the power to make a valuable contribution to the world. Through prayer and dedication, we can live a life that reflects Christ’s teachings and gives glory to our Lord.
Global Disciples Canada is a Christian mission organization that trains local leaders living near to 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!