The Bible talks a lot about fear and anxiety and there are plenty of references to bible verses and quotations to encourage your soul, no matter what you’re going through today!

We live in a crazy world with wars, conflicts, natural disasters, crime, divisions, racism, disease, sickness, and more. There is not a shortage of things that could potentially fill us with fear and anxiety.

Come to Me, all who are weary and heavily burdened [by religious rituals that provide no peace], and I will give you rest [refreshing your souls with salvation]. Take My yoke upon you and learn from Me [following Me as My disciple], for I am gentle and humble in heart, and you will find rest (renewal, blessed quiet) for your souls. – Matthew 11:28-29

God’s word is powerful in making people feel stronger by reminding them that they can get through anything with God’s love. The Holy Spirit ministers to our souls when we read the Bible. These uplifting quotes are a great way to start your morning, and they can also guide your thoughts when you’re going through a hard time.

Philippians 4:6-7
Don’t fret or worry. Instead of worrying, pray. Let petitions and praises shape your worries into prayers, letting God know your concerns. Before you know it, a sense of God’s wholeness, everything coming together for good, will come and settle you down. It’s wonderful what happens when Christ displaces worry at the center of your life.

1 John 4:18
 There is no fear in love [dread does not exist]. But perfect (complete, full-grown) love drives out fear because fear involves [the expectation of divine] punishment, so the one who is afraid [of God’s judgment] is not perfected in love [has not grown into a sufficient understanding of God’s love].

Psalm 94:19
When my anxious thoughts multiply within me, Your comforts delight me.

Isaiah 41:10
Do not fear [anything], for I am with you; Do not be afraid, for I am your God. I will strengthen you, be assured I will help you; I will certainly take hold of you with My righteous right hand [a hand of justice, of power, of victory, of salvation].’

1 John 4:18
There is no fear in love. But perfect love drives out fear because fear has to do with punishment. The one who fears is not made perfect in love.

Deuteronomy 31:6
Be strong and courageous. Do not be afraid or terrified because of them, or the Lord your God goes with you; he will never leave you nor forsake you.

Psalm 23:4
Even though I walk through the darkest valley, I will fear no evil, for you are with me; your rod and your staff, they comfort me.

Psalm 56:3
When I am afraid, I will put my trust and faith in You.

Romans 15:13
May the God of hope fill you with all joy and peace as you trust in Him so that you may overflow with hope by the power of the Holy Spirit.

Lamentations 3:22-23
The steadfast love of the Lord never ceases; his mercies never come to an end; they are new every morning; great is your faithfulness.

Psalm 121:1-5
Therefore we do not lose heart. Though outwardly we are wasting away, yet inwardly we are being renewed day by day. For our light and momentary troubles are achieving for us an eternal glory that far outweighs them all. So we fix our eyes not on what is seen, but on what is unseen since what is seen is, but what is unseen is eternal.

John 14:27
Peace I leave with you; My [perfect] peace I give to you; not as the world gives do I give to you. Do not let your heart be troubled, nor let it be afraid. [Let My perfect peace calm you in every circumstance and give you courage and strength for every challenge.]

Philippians 4:13
I can do all things through him who strengthens me.

2 Timothy 1:7
 For God did not give us a spirit of timidity or cowardice or fear, but [He has given us a spirit] of power and of love and of sound judgment and personal discipline [abilities that result in a calm, well-balanced mind, and self-control].

1 Peter 5:6-7
Therefore humble yourselves under the mighty hand of God [set aside self-righteous pride], so that He may exalt you [to a place of honor in His service] at the appropriate time, casting all your cares [all your anxieties, all your worries, and all your concerns, once and for all] on Him, for He cares about you [with deepest affection, and watches over you very carefully].

Zephaniah 3:17
The Lord your God is in your midst, A Warrior who saves. He will rejoice over you with joy; He will be quiet in His love [making no mention of your past sins], He will rejoice over you with shouts of joy.

Romans 8:38-39
For I am convinced [and continue to be convinced—beyond any doubt] that neither death, nor life, nor angels, nor principalities, nor things present and threatening, nor things to come, nor powers, nor height, nor depth, nor any other created thing, will be able to separate us from the [unlimited] love of God, which is in Christ Jesus our Lord.

Psalm 34:4
I sought the Lord [on the authority of His word], and He answered me, And delivered me from all my fears.

Psalm 46:1
God is our refuge and strength [mighty and impenetrable], A very present and well-proved help in trouble.

What we’ve listed above is a collection of Bible verses that can help us stay strong during hard times. These may give you the inspiration or reminder to stay strong in your faith. Remember, God’s love will empower us to overcome anything we can face in this life.

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!

Christians know that reading and meditating on God’s Word is vital to our spiritual growth and relationship with The Lord.

All Scripture is God-breathed [given by divine inspiration] and is profitable for instruction, for conviction [of sin], for correction [of error and restoration to obedience], for training in righteousness [learning to live in conformity to God’s will, both publicly and privately—behaving honorably with personal integrity and moral courage]; so that the man of God may be complete and proficient, outfitted and thoroughly equipped for every good work.
– 2 Timothy 3:16-17

Did you know that a Bible reading checklist can provide a valuable resource, guiding your reading and helping your scripture study?

The Bible offers wisdom, to go through life’s challenges and grow closer to God. In fact, to truly benefit from Scripture study, however, it is crucial to approach it with intention.

This Bible reading checklist is designed to assist you in systematically exploring the Scriptures in full. This guide provides a structure for you to follow in your daily devotions. It covers a variety of topics and themes. Consequently, as you journey through the Bible with this checklist, you will gain fresh insight and foster spiritual growth.

Why not join us at Global Disciples Canada, not only in studying the Word but also in living it out? We want to fulfill the Great Commission and reach the least-reached with the Good News of Jesus Christ.

Before diving into the Bible reading checklist, it’s essential to lay the groundwork for enriching and intentional Scripture study. Consider incorporating the following practices to help create a conducive environment for engaging with God’s Word:

1. Find a quiet space: Choose a place where you can read and reflect without distractions. A quiet environment will help you focus on the Scriptures and foster deeper meditation on their meaning.

2. Set aside dedicated time: It’s crucial to devote regular, structured time to reading the Bible. Determine a specific time each day for your Scripture study and stick to it as consistently as possible.

3. Pray for guidance: Before beginning each Bible study session, spend a few moments in prayer. Ask the Holy Spirit to guide your reading and illuminate your understanding of the Scriptures. This act of humility and dependence on God will help you understand the insights He wants to share with you.

To make the most of your Bible reading checklist, consider these strategies for a well-rounded and effective Scripture study experience:

1. Read in context: It’s essential to read biblical passages within their broader context to avoid misunderstanding or misinterpreting the message. Be mindful of the historical, cultural, and literary context of each book in the Bible. Context is crucial to interpreting scripture helpfully.

2. Take notes: Keep a journal or notebook to jot down your reflections, questions, and insights as you read. Writing your thoughts can help clarify your understanding, remember key points, and reference past insights for future study.

3. Study with others: Engage in group Bible study or join a small group or Bible study class at your local church. Studying with others will provide diverse perspectives and foster a deeper understanding of the Scriptures, enriching your personal Scripture study efforts.

Now, let’s explore the comprehensive Bible reading checklist to guide your journey through God’s Word. Our proposed checklist is divided into sections that cover different topics and themes of the Bible, ensuring a diverse and encompassing study of Scripture.

The New Testament offers a detailed account of the life, ministry, death, and resurrection of Jesus Christ. As you journey through the New Testament, pay close attention to Jesus’ teachings, parables, and miracles. Understand the deeper meaning and relevance for your personal walk of faith. Our recommended reading plan includes:

1. The Gospels: Read each Gospel (Matthew, Mark, Luke, and John) in its entirety, taking note of the unique perspectives and insights provided by each author. Observe how Jesus interacts with different people and the lessons He imparts throughout His ministry.

2. The Acts of the Apostles: Explore the growth and expansion of the early church, witnessing the work of the Holy Spirit and the missionary journeys of Paul and other apostles. Reflect upon the foundations of the Christian faith and the importance of community and fellowship.

3. The Epistles: Study the various letters written by Paul, Peter, John, James, and Jude, paying attention to their guidance, encouragement, and admonishment for early Christian communities. Consider how these teachings apply to your personal faith and your local church.

4. The Book of Revelation: Delve into the final book of the New Testament, examining the prophecies, visions, and messages contained within. Reflect upon the ultimate victory of God over evil and the hope we have in Christ’s return.

The Old Testament provides the historical, cultural, and theological foundations for the Christian faith. As you journey through these ancient texts, seek to uncover the timeless truths and enduring lessons contained within. Our recommended reading plan includes:

1. The Pentateuch: Read the first five books of the Bible (Genesis, Exodus, Leviticus, Numbers, and Deuteronomy), which detail the creation, the fall, the patriarchs, the exodus from Egypt, and the establishment of Israel. Reflect upon God’s promises, covenant, and guidance for His chosen people.

2. The Historical Books: Explore the history of Israel through the books of Joshua, Judges, Ruth, 1 and 2 Samuel, 1 and 2 Kings, 1 and 2 Chronicles, Ezra, Nehemiah, and Esther. Observe the cycles of obedience, disobedience, and restoration, as well as God’s faithfulness to His people.

3. The Poetic and Wisdom Literature: Discover the beauty, wisdom, and depth of the Hebrew Scriptures in the books of Job, Psalms, Proverbs, Ecclesiastes, and Song of Solomon. Reflect upon the poetic expressions of faith, worship, and human experience found within these texts.

4. The Prophets: Study the prophetic writings of Isaiah, Jeremiah, Lamentations, Ezekiel, Daniel, Hosea, Joel, Amos, Obadiah, Jonah, Micah, Nahum, Habakkuk, Zephaniah, Haggai, Zechariah, and Malachi. Consider the messages of judgment, hope, and restoration conveyed by these ancient messengers of God.

To deepen your comprehension and appreciation of the Bible, consider incorporating various study supplements to enrich your Scripture reading experience. Here are some suggestions:

1. Bible Commentary: Utilize Bible commentaries to provide expert insights, historical context, and application of Scripture to enhance your understanding of the text.

2. Bible Dictionary: Enrich your comprehension of biblical terms, places, and people by consulting a Bible dictionary as you read through the Scriptures.

3. Topical Bible: Use a topical Bible to explore specific themes, subjects, or characters throughout both the Old and New Testaments.

4. Online Resources and Apps: Engage with digital platforms and Bible study apps that offer reading plans, study notes, and other resources to help you navigate and understand the Bible.

By embracing the Bible reading checklist and making Scripture study a priority in your daily life, you create a transformational habit. As you immerse yourself in God’s Word and apply its lessons to your life, you will witness the incredible impact of Scripture on your spiritual growth, relationships, and personal well-being.

1. Reflect and Apply: As you read through the Bible, continually ask yourself how the Scriptures apply to your life, relationships, and circumstances. Seek to live out the truths and principles found within the Word, allowing it to shape your character, decisions, and interactions with others.

2. Share Your Insights: Engage in conversations with others about your Scripture readings, sharing your insights, questions, and discoveries as you journey through the Bible. This fosters fellowship, accountability, and mutual encouragement in your walk with Christ.

The Bible reading checklist offers a valuable guide for immersing yourself in the richness and depth of God’s Word. As you journey through the Scriptures, you will gain fresh insights, and deeper understanding, and learn about what it means to be a disciple of Jesus. Take the time to commit to this daily practice, and experience firsthand the transformative power of God’s Word as you partner with Global Disciples Canada in fulfilling the Great Commission.

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 looking for a Christian mission organization to partner with to become a better disciple and help make disciples, connect with us today!

Experience the joy of evangelism through inspiring stories of transformation. See how discipleship training is impacting lives in Chad.

In September 2016, at a training in Cameroon, Africa, Global Disciples equipped 17 church leaders to develop discipleship-mission training for their clusters of churches.

Within a month, all 17 had program proposals approved and ready to start.

Including the first discipleship-mission training in four countries new to our ministry at that time!

In Chad, Gabon, Equatorial Guinea, and Central African Republic. We were thrilled to see such a quick movement of new trainings and the potential growth in these nations!

Within six months, we received the first report from one of the new programs—a discipleship- mission training in Chad.

They had trained 26 disciple-makers and had completed their first evangelism outreach.

God blessed and worked through them to lead 765 people to faith in Jesus Christ, establishing a new church and fueling the growth of numerous other small fellowships. What a great start!

The program leader also shared the testimony of two participants who saw the Lord work and reshape their hearts.

Pierre is a pastor, and he reflected, “I want to give God the glory for being part of this. I went to Bible school for three years but I can’t compare that with what I received during our training. It taught me how to approach people and share the Gospel with others. Our outreach gave me the opportunity to use what I learned—and the results were marvelous!”

Another participant, Kelly said, “I am happy because of this training. Everywhere I go, the Lord opens new doors and showers me with His blessings. I learned that intimacy with God gives me the courage to pray, and I get up every morning at 2 or 3 a.m. to pray. And I always intercede for the unreached before I go to bed. And I noticed during the outreach that there was great joy among us. Evangelism brings joy!”

He’s right—evangelism brings joy! To those who share the Gospel boldly. And to those who are hearing the Good News of Jesus for the first time…thanks to these disciple-makers, equipped and sent out in the country of Chad.

Over the years God has continued to bless our work in Chad as we’ve seen those who had yet to hear the good news of Jesus Christ have their lives completely transformed.

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 Call is to live as a passionate disciple of Jesus. Jesus wants to use each one of His followers to go and make disciples of every nation.

Jesus came up and said to them, “All authority (all power of absolute rule) in heaven and on earth has been given to Me. Go therefore and make disciples of all the nations [help the people to learn of Me, believe in Me, and obey My words], baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit, teaching them to observe everything that I have commanded you; and lo, I am with you always [remaining with you perpetually—regardless of circumstance, and on every occasion], even to the end of the age.” – Matthew 28:18-20

It is no coincidence that you are reading this and that God called you to live a life of significance.

God made you with a purpose. If you let him He will transform you and use you to share His love with others.

You are here to make disciples who will go and make disciples until everyone has heard the Good News.

The transforming love of Jesus is good news for our broken world.

This Good News is for everyone, and yet over two billion people have still never heard it. Others have never understood, still held captive by various forms of evil in a broken world. What is God doing about it?  How will He turn an upside-down-world right-side-up? Only the transforming love of Jesus can heal our broken world and set the captives free.

God is longing for a restored relationship with every person. 

 He chose us in Christ [actually selected us for Himself as His own] before the foundation of the world, so that we would be holy [that is, consecrated, set apart for Him, purpose-driven] and blameless in His sight. In love He predestined and lovingly planned for us to be adopted to Himself as [His own] children through Jesus Christ, in accordance with the kind intention and good pleasure of His will. – Ephesians 1:4-5

He has created each one in His image and likeness. And has sent His own son, Jesus, to redeem and restore all creation. The death and resurrection of Jesus marks the tipping point in human history. Evil has been defeated, love will win, and a new world is on its way.  It is imperative that people from every tribe and every nation have an opportunity to hear this Good News.

But all these things are from God, who reconciled us to Himself through Christ [making us acceptable to Him] and gave us the ministry of reconciliation [so that by our example we might bring others to Him], that is, that God was in Christ reconciling the world to Himself, not counting people’s sins against them [but canceling them]. 
– 2 Corinthians 5:18-19

But how will this happen? 

It is only possible through His disciples who take their responsibility seriously to go and make disciples (Matthew 28:19-20).

Fulfilling the Great Commission, means the healing of our broken world will take place from the inside out. As the love of Jesus brings reconciliation to individuals, then families, communities, and the world.

Jesus spent three years with a core group of a dozen people. He taught them to love, live and serve like Him. God’s strategy is to redeem the broken world through His disciple. These disciples make more disciples and forming new fellowships of believers until the whole world knows.

That is the call on the life of every Christian, and this is the training we provide at Global Disciples. The commitment of every believer is to go and make disciples and plant churches. This should be among every ethnic group so that all nations have the opportunity to hear the Gospel.

An incredible privilege to be involved in ensuring that everyone has the possibility to experience grace, freedom, and transformation. We are all called to do our part so that Christ’s redeeming love will touch the lives of our neighbors and bring healing in this world.

This is not the work of one church, denomination, or nation. 

It is an assignment for every disciple from every nation to work together in unity so the entire world will know Jesus. At Global Disciples, we call every follower of Christ from every nation and denomination to live as global disciples of Jesus by making the following commitment:

Being united by the Spirit of the Lord, I want to live as a global disciple of Jesus.  My allegiance is to Jesus Christ; He is the Living Word of God, as revealed by the Holy Spirit and through the Bible. I want to fellowship with His disciples all over the world and work to tell every nation about Him.

We are not disciples of Global Disciples, we are disciples of Christ. And as such, we should be able to answer “yes” to two simple questions.

One, are we part of active fellowships of believers who are discipling us to love like Jesus? And two, are we making disciples by investing in the lives of others? This is our commission as followers of Jesus.

The Kingdom of God is growing as never before, and the love of Jesus is changing everything.

Global Disciples’ simple multiplication strategy of teaching disciples how to make disciples and plant reproducible fellowships of believers is being used around the world and is changing everything.

Churches are being planted all over Africa, Asia, and Latin America; they are active and flourishing even in closed Muslim countries; leaders are teaching church planters how to start small businesses so as to have the resources they need to plant new churches and minister in their communities. In our generation, we hope to see the church planting movement taking place in every country around the world.

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!

You can make your plans, but be sure they include listening to the Holy Spirit for true direction on God’s plan.

A man’s mind plans his way [as he journeys through life],
But the Lord directs his steps and establishes them.
– Proverbs 16:9

So often God takes us out of our comfort zone, and changes our plans, in order to accomplish His plans! You can be thankful that God’s Plan is always the best plan.

Like the story of Perla recently. She leads a discipleship-mission training program in Mexico.

Usually, when the participants get to the outreach part of their training, they work as a full team at planting a church.

This time, Perla said, “The Holy Spirit led us to take the Gospel to a variety of locations. We connected with a man of peace in a very difficult place. He is a head teacher in the area. We stayed with him during our outreach and went to preach in 10 villages around the area.”

“Normally the whole team stays together and we do drama and a presentation,” Perla explained, “But this time we went out two by two. And this was the first time for many of them to do this kind of ministry.” However, as the teams began to report in, they had awesome stories to report and saw God working in mighty ways.

Perla went along with two disciple-makers, a 20-year old, and one who was a teenager!

She said, “They never had gone out to share the Gospel before and it transformed them!”

They went to a location where the people had never heard of Jesus. They went door to door and shared the Gospel with 70 people, and only 1 person did NOT receive Jesus!

Most of their efforts focused on the women, since the men were away at work. But Perla and her two young disciple-makers had the opportunity to share the love and salvation of Christ with men as they returned from the fields, and all of them found new life and faith in Him! A church was born in a day.

Perla shared that the local hosting church experienced revival too as they saw what the Lord was doing. Praise God!

As Perla and her team know, when the Holy Spirit nudges you and changes your plans, it’s worth following His direction.

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!

Though her name means “evangelist”, Evangelina had never shared the Gospel with someone; she didn’t know how.

Then she took part in a discipleship training hosted by her church fellowship in the Dominican Republic.

As she learned what she could do, Evangelina was compelled by the Spirit to go to a community near her home. It was a neighborhood with no Christian presence and no knowledge of the Good News.

Evangelina shared the Gospel boldly and built relationships as people came to faith in Christ.

Alize, a 12-year-old girl, accepted Jesus. “This is the first time someone explained the story of God and the love of Jesus to me,” she told Evangelina. Alize felt the Holy Spirit filling her life, and she was baptized with four other young people.

In fact, as Evangelina, Alize, and others gave testimony to the Gospel, entire families came to Christ.

Now, the neighborhood has at least one believer in every home. Evangelina passes along what she learned to equip new believers and extend the Kingdom in this spiritually needy area.

Like Evangelina, people often come to Global Disciples’ training with a need. As God equips them for His Kingdom work, He is also meeting their needs through training. 

In Ethiopia, Megressa’s need was practical—shelter, food, and clothing for his family. His heart was to share the Gospel and minister to people, but he had nothing to live on. Even moving to a larger town had not met his family’s needs.

However, Megressa was invited to a local Global Disciples Small Business Development training. It opened his eyes to what he was capable of, and how he could continue to reach others with the Gospel.

Inspired and equipped, Megressa returned to his home village and started a small farm, fattening livestock for meat.

Consequently, as he served his community, he also shared Christ, and within a year, 62 people received Christ as their Savior! Over 40 were baptized and a new fellowship was planted. He’s added to his livestock, built a home for his family, and spreads the Gospel daily.  

Zik’s need was buried deep in his heart.

A participant in a Global Disciples Leadership Development program in Zimbabwe, Zik was moved by the Holy Spirit during a session on forgiveness. He was a church leader, serving people well and sharing the Word of God, but he had a bitter heart. His younger brother had taken his land and burned his stored crops. The deep pain and betrayal made them enemies.

As he absorbed the teaching, Zik knew he needed to forgive. He went home and shared his intent with his family. He invited the community elders to mediate a meeting with his brother. Zik then faced his brother and extended forgiveness to him and his family—an act that rippled through their community as testimony of God’s power.

Today, Zik’s relationship with his brother is healed and much has been restored. At least a dozen people from their family and community have also come to faith in Jesus. And Zik continues to serve as a leader with a heart free of bitterness.

What joy to see God using our Global Disciples approach to not only meet needs, but to multiply disciples and churches through people like Zik, Megressa, and Evangelina.

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!

Discover the joy of Holy Spirit transformation as churches multiply and lives are changed in Northern India.

Have you ever thought about this? What brings joy to God? More churches planted? Or a life transformed by His Spirit?

Well, both, of course. Church multiplication is awesome! It reflects the growth of the Body of Christ. And churches are made up of those who follow Jesus, who are being renewed and transformed by His Holy Spirit.

In our Global Disciples approach to equipping disciple-makers, we eagerly expect to see the Holy Spirit do his transforming work. And it often begins during the training as those who believe in Jesus discover what it means to His disciple.

That was Reha’s experience. Read on to find out more!

A young woman from Northeast India, her family are not believers or followers of Jesus.

Now, Reha had claimed to be a Christian—she had even been baptized.

But her relationship with Christ was not reflected in her life, her actions, or her words. “I was known as a very bad girl,” she said.

And so, because her behavior didn’t match what she claimed to believe, her family despised and rejected her Christian faith.

In fact, a friend told her about the discipleship-mission training through a local church cluster and Reha decided to attend.

At first, she was shy and struggled with the training. But as time went on, the Spirit began to work in her heart and change her life.

So, one day, she confessed her sins, and decided to fully follow Christ in every aspect of her life. She also wanted to forgive her parents for their treatment of her. As the training director reported, “She was transformed completely!”

In fact, Reha finished the training and outreach, then returned home to her parents to ask them to forgive her.

Her parents saw profound changes in her words, actions, and attitudes and because of the Spirit’s transforming work, they and the rest of Reha’s family soon placed their faith and trust in Christ as their Savior and Lord.

Did this transformation last? Oh yes! Today, Reha is fully committed to Christ and led by the Spirit.

In fact, she has become a godly example for young people in her community, and a leader in the youth ministry in her local church.

And The Holy Spirit is at work, transforming hearts and lives and empowering His people to be living examples of God’s grace.

Did you know that life-changing stories like Reha’s reflect the fruit and impact of Global Disciples’ mission and vision to multiply effective disciple-makers and church planters among least-reached people.

And you can be part of it too—start with THE REACH! Why not become part of our monthly giving community of people who are committed to making it possible for a third of our world to hear about Jesus. Start here.

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!

When Jesus goes to work in your life, He may move you into something you never anticipated. In fact, it may be far beyond your comfort Zone.

When people talk about “unreached people” you probably don’t think of New Zealand. But Christ- followers in that secular culture are surrounded by people who don’t know Jesus. And many who have very little exposure to the Gospel.

A discipleship-mission training program in New Zealand uses our Global Disciples’ approach to equip local believers as disciple-makers.

In fact, they often focus their outreach in places in the South Pacific, like Tonga and the Cook Islands. Meg recently participated in the training.

Meg said, “Before I went to the training, I led a very busy life, and was broken by many disappointments. I questioned whether God and His promises were real. But He answered my prayers, and did abundantly above and beyond that which I asked. My life has been transformed from the inside out.”

While she experienced a personal change in her life, it was the outreach to Tonga that stretched and strengthened Meg’s faith.

“I was pushed beyond my comfort zone,” she said, “I had the opportunity to preach in prison and on the street corner in the city center. I prayed with the elderly who were struggling with sicknesses, and many people were set free and healed. We witnessed the power of the Holy Spirit and were privileged to see many people come to a relationship with Christ.”

You know, God often takes us beyond our comfort zone to show us more of Himself, and just what He can accomplish through our obedience.

And, as Meg explained, “Travelling to Tonga gave me an opportunity to refocus on God, to see how much He loves me and that He’s faithful. I rediscovered my first love in Jesus.”

Consequently, she discovered His mission for her life.

In fact, she said, “My heart is to see God’s message of love and salvation move all over the South Pacific and around the world. I’m already planning and coordinating with local leaders for an outreach to the Cook Islands.”

Life transformation–and a vision to carry on the Great Commission. That’s what we love to see as Global Disciples.

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!

God has a beautiful strategy for reaching the world through multiplying churches.

The ultimate goal of all disciple-making and leadership development to planting churches that multiply.

We can better understand the biblical mandate of planting fellowships of disciples that multiply themselves by exploring the following;

When we study the New Testament churches, we learn some key principles. We should use to plant reproducing fellowships anywhere.

Let’s look at seven steps that any fellowship of disciples can implement anywhere in the world.

Prayer is of vital importance and is the first priority in multiplying churches. When we pray, God will open closed doors. Prayer first of all moves our hearts and puts our desires in line with God’s desires. When God opens our eyes to see the lost state of our communities, we will be moved with compassion to open our homes so as to start new fellowships. If we are willing, God is able to fill us with His Spirit for His glory.

Prayer also is instrumental in raising up the workers that are needed. (John 17:20; John 20:21; Acts 1:14; Acts 4:31; Acts 11:5; Acts 14:23; Colossians 4:3-4).

Jesus Himself commands us to “ask the Lord of the harvest, therefore, to send out workers into his harvest field” (Matthew 9:38).

The leading of the Holy Spirit in choosing and equipping church planters is very important (Acts 13:2).

Prayer provides direction so God can show us where He is at work. And where He wants us to be involved.

In his strategy, Paul had a plan to reach the Jews and the Gentiles. But his plans were sometimes changed by the Spirit of God. He was very sensitive to the leading of the Spirit and was willing to change his own plans to follow the plans of God (Acts 11:27-30; Acts 13:1-3; Acts 16:6-10; Acts 8:9-10).

Paul was very open to the Spirit—that is why he said, “But I will come to you very soon, if the Lord is willing, God willing I will come to you” (1 Corinthians 4:19). We also need to pray so that we know God’s plan.   

After prayer has confirmed the place where God wants you to be involved. Why not do a survey and study the target people and the area.

It is very important to know the culture (language, customs, religion, social structure) of the people.

Prayer walks, literature distribution, film shows, small business development, and music may help in establishing contacts and finding the “man of peace”—the families or the communities in the area who are receptive to you and the Spirit (Mark 6:10-11). This will help in strategic discernment and effective approaches to the community by identifying the spiritual battleground and the responsiveness of the people groups.

In the Old Testament, Moses sent 12 leaders to do a survey of the land that God had promised to give them (Numbers 13:17-20).

After Moses passed away, Joshua also did a similar thing by sending leaders to do a survey of Jericho.

Jesus likewise sent His disciples ahead of Him to prepare the way (Luke 10:1).

As you survey a region, prayerfully respond to the following questions:

What locations are most strategic?

Paul’s whole strategy was to plant churches in major towns. Paul went into big cities of a region (Acts 16:9-12; Acts 18:1, Acts 18:18-22; Acts 19:1-10) and planted churches in those strategic cities.

Paul recognized that the way to most permanently influence a country was by planting vibrant churches in strategic cities. Once he had accom­plished this, he moved on, knowing that the rest would follow. That is why he said that he had “fully preached” the Gospel in a re­gion and that he had “no more place . . . to work in these regions” (Romans 15:19, Romans 15:23).

This, however, does not imply that it is wrong to plant a church in a smaller town or village if that is clearly God’s direction. It is critical to seek God’s direction.

Consider whether it is possible to send someone as a church planter or if another method is needed. Perhaps a small business is a good way to gain an entrance into this location. This is the reason that Global Disciples includes Small Business Development (SBD) training as part of our Multiplying Churches Strategy.

You may also recognize specific physical needs of a community which can be an open door to bringing the Gospel.

Try to discover who holds influence in the location you are trying to reach. These influencers may or may not hold positions of authority and may or may not be open to the Gospel (Acts 8:26-38; Acts 10; Acts 16). But if the key influencers can be reached first with the Gospel, a church can be established much more quickly.

Jesus talks about “the man of peace” (Luke 10:6) and encourages His disciples to work closely with this person. Prayerfully ask God to reveal these key people to you and your team.

Identify both the spiritual and cultural areas which will oppose the Gospel (Acts 17:5; Acts 19:24-34). Once identified, gather intercessors and start praying.

Planting and multiplying churches is the work that requires a team; it is not an individual effort. 

One person will not have all the gifting and skills to do all the different ministries that are needed to plant churches. Jesus, the Master church planter, sent His disciples out two by two (Luke 10:1).

Paul also took someone with him in his church planting ventures and, at various times, included many on his team over his years of ministry—Barnabas, John Mark, Titus, Silas, Timothy, Priscilla, Aquila (Acts 15:40; Acts 16:1; Acts 18:18; Romans 12:6-9; 1 Corinthians 12:28; Galatians 6:6; Ephesians 4:11; 1 Corinthians 16:15- 16). In the same way, if we want to reach the least-reached peoples, we need to form a strategic church planting team.

The team will certainly include those whom God has specifically called to take the Gospel to new areas. While it is the responsibility of every believer to witness in their community, there are those who have the ability and call to go out to new areas. 

For example, Paul and Barnabas were set apart by the Holy Spirit from the church at Antioch (Acts 13:1-3); the church leaders prayed for them and commissioned them to go and multiply churches where there was no witness for Christ.

The team will not only include those who go but also persons committed to pray and support the church planting effort.

To multiply churches, we should identify ourselves with the communities we want to reach by establishing a presence among them.

Jesus came and lived among those He was trying to reach. Paul also identified himself quickly with those he tried to reach; he became a servant to all to save them by sacrificing his comfort (1 Corinthians 9:19-23). In Athens, he talked about the “unknown God” (Acts 17:22-24)—he contextualized the Gospel according to the place and culture.

When we live and identify with the people we plan to reach, joining with them in their joys and sorrows, it builds trust. It also calls for sacrifice, and we must often lay down our own preferences to reach others with the Gospel—especially if we are across cultures. If we go to reach a vegetarian community, be a vegetarian to identify with them!

Again, in many locations, business is a great way to establish a presence in a community. A business opens doors and builds relationships with many people in a community (Acts 18:1-4). If you are sending out a church planter, consider funding the startup cost of a small business instead of long-term monthly support.

As you establish a presence in a community, continue to look for the “person of peace” whom God has prepared for the message. In most communities, the family head will be a key influencer. It is worth the special effort of a church planter to focus on these persons. 

Prayerfully look for people who will willingly give their lives to follow Christ. Be alert to the many ways in which God may call people to Himself. This may happen simply as you live among them and represent Jesus to them. If you’re using a business, they may see a difference in the way that you treat them or your willingness to pray for them in the name of Jesus.

In some contexts, you may use literature, door-to-door evangelism methods, film showings. You may find that people are open to study the Bible with you.

Some have found it helpful to begin studying Scripture from the account of Creation and slowly work through the Old Testament before coming to the New Testament stories of Jesus. This may take much time, but it can be a very effective way of teaching people the heart of God.

Consider appropriate use of technology as well—cell phones, Facebook, Instagram, and satellite television are all ways that God can use to speak to people. Again, the context of the culture will help to shape the method you use.

The New Testament evangelism method was focused on reaching the entire family by reaching the family heads. Targeting family leaders who would bring their whole households to Christ is the most strategic and fruitful way to plant churches in least-reached areas. There are many biblical examples of this—Peter, who preached to the household of Cornelius (Acts 10); Paul, who preached to Lydia with all members of her household (Acts 16:14-15) as well as to the Philippian jailer (Acts 16:31-33); the households of Stephen, Philemon, and others as well that were won over (1 Corinthians 1:16; Philemon 2; 2 Timothy 1:16).  As they won the head of the house, they brought their whole family, and churches were established.

Wherever Paul went and met people who were hungry for salvation, he preached the Gospel and baptized those who gave their lives to follow Christ.

Jesus commanded us to “go and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit, and teaching them to obey everything I have commanded you” (Matthew 28:19).

As soon as people give their lives to the Lordship of Jesus, teach them to renounce any old ways of living—idol worship, evil spirits, practices of magic and witchcraft, immoral practices—and pray for their deliverance. This is the right time to instruct them to live lives of discipleship.

There is no need to hurry to baptize them before they make the right decision (Acts 2:38-40). In some contexts, it may be wise to wait until several people or a group of people are ready for baptism together.  

After baptism, instruct them to devote themselves to the studying and teaching of the Word of God, to prayer, to fellowship, to breaking bread together, and to serving their world.

Jesus, the master builder of His Church, called, trained, and sent people very specifically to build His own Church (Mark 3:13-15).

The apostles did what they saw Jesus doing. Following in the footsteps of Jesus, we need to give priority to training and appointing leaders who will take care of the established fellowships and continue to reproduce churches. Selection and training of the leaders can be done according to the personal gifting and calling of individuals.

Paul chose leaders to be in charge of the fellowships which he planted (1 Corinthians 1:14-16; Acts 18:8). Paul also visited the churches he planted to encourage, strengthen, and correct them (Acts 15:36; Acts 14:21-23; Acts 16:1-5; Acts 18:23; Acts 20:1-2; 1 Thessalonians 3:10; 1 Corinthians 16:5-7; 2 Corinthians 13:9-10). Writing epistles was also a part of his follow-up work.

In some places he spent more time to equip the disciples. For example, he spent one and half years in Corinth (Acts 18:11) and three years in Ephesus (Acts 20:31) teaching on the word of God. In the same way, we also need to give attention to the churches planted. 

Unless the church we plant takes the responsibility of reaching others and planting reproducing fellowships of disciples, we have not completed our work.

Paul equipped and appointed leaders to continue the multiplication of churches in their region. Specifically, he told Titus to, “appoint elders in every town” (Titus 1:5).

We need to train every member of the newly established church to share their faith with others and to make disciples. During this process, many of them will grow as disciples who will go and make disciples and plant churches. This kind of multiplying churches will become a church-planting movement that continues to multiply churches.

You’ve got a vital part to play!

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!

When faced with hardship, do you give up? Or persevere in faith?

Serving the Body of Christ around the world is a real privilege for Global Disciples. We partner with churches to provide training that helps them fulfill the Great Commission of Jesus Christ—to go make disciples.

In some places, partnerships are just beginning. And as potential is unlimited, as we see in one country in South East Asia.

In one particular region, our involvement has been primarily in providing small business training for local church leaders. Global Disciples gives them a way to support their families and ministry as they go out and plant new churches.

As God opens the door, we want to begin discipleship-mission training before long. In this country, most Christians belong to ethnic minorities. They face great opposition from their Buddhist or animist neighbors and from the Communist authorities.

A group of believers in this nation lost their homes and their farmland because of their faith in Jesus.

Some were even former members of the Communist Party.

Their coffee crops were destroyed, livestock was killed, and food stores were stolen. At one point, local officials came in with a backhoe and just pushed the believers’ homes into the river!

Undeterred, this small fellowship relocated, and set up in tents.

And, though they’re now on land that’s poorly suited for farming, God is blessing their hard work.

An evangelist in the region visits regularly, and he reported that even with all the difficulties, this small fellowship goes out regularly to share the Good News of Jesus with others.

To have discipleship-mission training would be a tremendous help for these communities of Christ followers, like this group in South East Asia.

They’re eager to have the tools to multiply the Body of Christ, to make and nurture disciples of Jesus, and to plant new churches.

Despite hardship, opposition, limited resources, and many other hurdles, they’re ready to reach 38 people groups that are still without the glorious Good News of Jesus in that region.

Let’s do our part—as we pray for them and work together to accomplish the Great Commission.

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!