manupthebook

A few weeks ago, a friend posed the question, who is the target audience for STEPUP? I’ve been pondering this question a lot.

I have attended church services in numerous denominations for well over sixty years. I was over sixty before anyone clearly explained what it meant to be a disciple of Christ. I suspect that many if not most of those in the pew would say the same thing. So for that reason here are my thoughts as to who I think could benefit from STEPUP and why.

Anyone wishing to grow in their faith journey – we are all children of God. Children grow and learn continuously. In my own journey there was some areas of growth that needed and still need development. Reflection upon where each of us needs to grow is important and this simple guide can help.

Retreat givers and recipients – the purpose of a retreat is to light a spark, but it has to be grown into a flame. This takes time, and growth after the retreat is critical. This guide can help individuals identify what to do after the retreat.

Ministry leaders – ministry leaders can be so focused on the ministry that they forget the purpose of the ministry. A ministry is a task that draws people of common interest together in order to address a need. But the purpose of every ministry is to lead others to a deeper relationship with Christ. If the ministry isn’t doing that, it is missing the point.

Directors of Religious Education, Religious Educators and Sponsors of those entering a church – the point of religion isn’t just learning a bunch of facts, it is about a conversion of heart. This takes time and this takes personal investment. Jesus walked with his disciples for three years and they still didn’t get it. There has to be a personal investment in others and a willingness to touch hearts as well as minds.

Anyone in church or spiritual leadership – Jesus didn’t say go make followers, he said,”Go make Disciples.(Mt 28:19)” If our churches aren’t growing vibrantly that is an indicator something is amiss. There is a difference between followers and disciples. If our Church isn’t growing, it is most likely because we are filling the pews with followers, but not many disciples.