There are four specific dimensions to the next generation discipleship experience, each focusing on a different method of learning. Over the years we have learned that personal engagement in each of these four areas is critical to the success of this discipleship process. The bible teaches us that whatever a man sows, that is what he reaps (Galatians 6:7) and so making a commitment to be fully involved in each of these four opportunities will yield fruitful results.
Interactive and educational group time
Meetings will occur twice a month with the exception of the convening monthly during the summer break. Each meeting will combine teaching and discussion, case studies, sharing personal ministry lessons, challenging scenarios, and candid pastoral interviews. Plus a few intriguing surprises along the way!
Learning through self-study
A reading list of books and articles will stretch the thinking and expand the hearts and minds of each disciple. Readings will be discussed during group meetings.
Strategic ministry opportunities
Each disciple will be challenged to participate in a list of ministry opportunities over the course of the year. Having the opportunity to observe and participate in ministry along side a seasoned pastor, elder, or deacon will provide and invaluable learning experience.
One-on-one mentorship
Each disciple will schedule a regular meeting time with someone he has chosen as a mentor. They will discuss what he learned in the previous group session. The mentor will be available to the disciple for ongoing encouragement, accountability and coaching.
CURRICULUM SUMMARY
The Next Generation Discipleship Experience is a unique opportunity for a selected group of men and women who attend CCFL to learn and grow in ministry leadership. Over the course of the year, the following topics will be covered by a variety of pastors and leaders, helping to equip participants for a life of fruitful ministry. The meetings are hosted by Pastor Greg Anderson and other experienced pastors from a variety of ministries.
Sessions Overview
1) Leadership Preparation
In this session, the focus will be on what’s involved in preparing leaders for a lifetime of ministry. We will review, the “Leadership Checklist” and discuss A.W. Tozer’s, The Pursuit Of God. During this first meeting, we will get to know one another and discuss what steps are necessary to prepare for a position of leadership.
2) Character and Integrity
In this session, we will stress the importance of Christian character and personal integrity in the life of one who is serving God. A list of Ministry Opportunities will be presented and you will be challenged to engage in them throughout the year. We will discuss the Tale Of Three Kings by Gene Edwards and 14 Tests All Leaders Must Face by Frank Demazio. We will also, discuss the biblical qualifications for elders and deacons.
3) Discipleship
Making Disciples is our mission and mandate. In this session, we will define discipleship and we will discuss what’s involved in developing an authentic disciple of Jesus Christ. We will review principles from Robert Coleman’s -Master Plan of Evangelism.
4) Calling
Are you called to ministry? The focus for this session is on discovering a person’s calling in life and helping respond in obedience. We will discuss what’s involved in God’s calling on our lives and how that should shape our future.
5) Mission and Vision
What is your mission? What is your vision for the future? It’s imperative that these be defined and expressed, forming a solid foundation for a lifetime of ministry. We will discuss the main ideas presented in Chazown by Craig Groeschel.
6) Discover Your Gifts
Each Believer is entrusted with Spiritual Gifts. We will review Biblical passages related to each of the gifts and participants will be given the Strengthsfinder test as well as a Spiritual Gifts Assessment.
7) Developing Your Gifts
We have a God-given responsibility to develop and maximize our spiritual gifts for kingdom growth. The focus for this time will be related to the personal application of our gifts and talents in a variety of ministry opportunities.
8) Values and Beliefs
In this session we will emphasize the importance of identifying specific core values and having them reflected in your ministry endeavors. We will also look at foundational beliefs that are essential to every ministry, and explore how and why they should be consistently expressed. Review Reading How Much Land Does a Man Need.
9) Doctrine
Understanding doctrine is critical to the success of all kingdom work. This session will punctuate the importance of doctrine and how it should be established as part of your ministry foundation. Review the Calvary Chapel Statement of Faith.
10) Study and Preparation
How do you study the scriptures and then prepare a relevant impactful message? Study and preparation will be the focus of this meeting. Resources, tools, techniques and ideas will be shared and discussed.
11) Communicating
Teaching and preaching are all about communicating for life-change. This session will be a practical experience where your teaching gifts will be put to the test and evaluated.
12) Compassion and Outreach
Demonstrating compassion through outreach shows the world the love of Jesus. In this session we will put our beliefs into action and engage our local community. Review A Man Who Changed His Times – William Wilberforce.
13) Team Management and Time Management
How do I manage my team? How do I manage my own time? In this session we will explore the development of those skills needed to effectively lead a team effort. We will also assess some “best practices” of those who manage their time well.
14) Leading in Crisis
Much of ministry is done in the midst of crisis. In this session, we will cover several critical things to remember when doing ministry in the context of crisis. Case studies will be presented to learn from real life experiences.
15) Stewardship
We are called to be stewards of all that God has blessed us with. In this session we will look closer at the important Biblical principles of stewardship that should influence our ministry leadership on every level. Review Reading The Treasure Principle.
16) Pastor’s Forum (Leadership)
Lead Pastor Doug Sauder and other senior leaders from CCFL will share their experiences in leading a growing ministry.
17) Graduation Celebration!
Our group will gather one more time to enjoy a delicious meal, reflect on the accomplishments of the year and set our sights on serving God in the future.
Readings
The following books will be provided and will serve to enhance our discussion on the various topics.
On-line versions will be used when available.
The Pursuit of God - A.W.Tozer
A Tale of Three Kings - Gene Edwards
Fourteen Test All Leaders Must Face – Frank Demazio
Chazown - Craig Groschel
The Divine Mentor - Wayne Codera
Shaped by the Gospel – Tim Keller
Living in Your Strengths - Donald Clifton
How Much Land Does a Man Need – Leo Tolstoy
Calvary Chapel Statement of Faith
A Man Who Changed His Times – William Wilberforce
The Treasure Principle - Randy Alcorn
Disciplines of a Godly Woman