WELCOME TO THE YEAR OF THE EQUIPPED DISCIPLE

Ephesians 4:9-12

(What does “he ascended” mean except that he also descended to the lower, earthly regions? He who descended is the very one who ascended higher than all the heavens, in order to fill the whole universe.) So Christ himself gave the apostles, the prophets, the evangelists, the pastors and teachers, to equip his people for works of service, so that the body of Christ may be built up, until we all reach unity in the faith and in the knowledge of the Son of God and become mature, attaining to the whole measure of the fullness of Christ.

The values of family, kingdom, and community represent our core identity as a church. These principles are the foundation of how we connect, shaping a culture where each person feels valued and supported. Rooted in spiritual traditions, these values emphasize the importance of belonging to a nurturing body that encourages shared purpose and genuine relationships. By embracing family, kingdom, and community, we foster an environment where individuals can thrive together, guided by a sense of higher purpose and unity. 

TWO SCRIPTURES

Both scriptures use building metaphors to describe believers as part of a spiritual house for God, with Christ as the cornerstone. They contrast the old physical temple with the new living one made of believers (living stones) who form a holy priesthood to offer spiritual sacrifices. This highlights unity in Christ as the foundation. 

TWO LEGS

Believers are strengthened (built up) through faith and teaching, while also growing into a unified, functioning community (built together, fitting together) like a body or temple of God, with each part contributing to the whole’s health and purpose.

BUILT UP: Individual Growth

BUILT TOGETHER: Community Growth

Discipleship (forming followers of Jesus) and equipping (training believers for ministry) are often seen as the two essential functions, or “legs,” of a healthy church, working together to build mature believers who then go on to make more disciples, mirroring Jesus’ model of walking with and training people for the Kingdom of God, ensuring the church’s spiritual growth and mission. Effective discipleship involves relational learning, gospel-centered teaching, and mission, while equipping provides practical skills for ministry and leadership, empowering everyone to participate.  

EQUIPPING STATIONS

EQUIPPED TO LEAD

These Seminars are designed to equip ministry staff and lay leaders with biblical wisdom and practical organizational skills. 

THE VISION is the destination (the big picture) while the mission is the roadmap (the daily or weekly activities of the church). The vision provides a compelling image of what we hope to achieve as a community, inspiring us to move forward with purpose and clarity. It anchors our aspirations and unites us around a common goal.

THE MISSION, on the other hand, translates this vision into concrete actions—guiding our everyday decisions, programs, and ministries. Through consistent, mission-driven activities, we steadily progress toward our vision, ensuring that our core values of family, kingdom, and community are reflected in all we do. This alignment between vision and mission allows every member to see how their contributions play a vital role in fulfilling our church’s greater calling. 

Learn how to bloom where you are planted. In this way, you will be able to thrive, grow, and make the best of your current situation, circumstances, or location, finding opportunities to be productive, joyful, or impactful wherever you are, rather than waiting for a better place or time.

Just as a plant draws nourishment from the soil it is rooted in, you too can draw strength from your community, faith, and connections. When you choose to invest in your surroundings and contribute positively, you not only grow personally but also inspire others to do the same, creating a ripple effect of hope and transformation.