Disciple-making is one of the core values at New Life, reflected in the Church Covenant, “We will strive to make true disciples of Christ beginning in our homes and spheres of influence by sharing the message of reconciliation entrusted to us whenever and wherever God gives opportunity.” Through a partnership with an Alabama-based ministry, Launch Global, New Life members Paul* and Lauren* are equipping people to be disciple-makers, training them to plant churches, and fulfilling this vital New Life core value.

Lauren shares that before she met Paul, they had each individually felt the Lord calling them to serve amongst unreached people groups to further His kingdom. Paul spent two years in Asia as a single and an additional year with Lauren after they married. “Through different challenges in Asia, the Lord showed us that it is valuable to be well prepared, both as individuals and as a whole team.”

Paul and Lauren now lead a Goer Life Group, a small group of committed New Life members who meet weekly to discuss the curriculum, pray together and memorize scripture and Bible stories. Their goal is growing in competence and confidence through gospel conversations, as they believe that every individual Christian is called to be a part of the exciting task of proclaiming Christ’s name to every tribe, tongue and nation.  

Paul cites Ephesians 4:11-12 as a reason he has chosen to serve as a Goer Life Group leader, “And [Christ] gave the apostles, the prophets, the evangelists, the shepherds and teachers, to equip the saints for the work of ministry, for building up the body of Christ.”

In preparing to engage unreached people groups with the gospel each believer must count the cost and consider if the task is worth what they may lose or leave behind. Some common questions include: What if I do not get married? What if my parents are upset with me leaving? Isn’t it easier to get a job and have a secure future? Lauren shares that Satan likes to whisper to us that it is not worth it. Paul points out, “In isolation, it’s easy to believe Satan’s lies. Once the lies are brought up to myself or the group, it’s easy to see that it wasn’t the truth.”

During the weekly meetings members are encouraged to share how they have seen Christ move that week.  Lauren joyfully recounts stories of members becoming excited to share their faith and experiencing increased growth in faith and love for the Lord as specific prayers for gospel conversation have been answered

Goer Life Group member Nelly Millan says that being in the Goer Life Group  has changed how she has conversations and how she listens for opportunities to direct the conversation toward a story in the Bible, share scripture, or pray for another’s need. 

“Each time I make it a point to go out and engage people it’s always so rewarding. It’s surprising how open people are to have someone pray with them or even share the gospel. I always look forward to the next time.”

*Names have been changed to protect privacy