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Multiplication

I’m glad that the gospel story is so simple that as a six-year-old child I could understand it with nothing more than a kindergarten diploma. It’s also a relief to know that I don’t have to have a doctorate in theology to lead someone else to faith in Christ. The Holy Spirit does His mighty work of bringing people to God.           

ABWE missionaries move alongside the Holy Spirit to introduce people all over the world to salvation in Christ. But this is only the beginning of missions. We envision fruit well beyond salvation.

With a clear vision of what the full circle of missions looks like, our missionaries work to see new believers become disciples, who then become leaders, church planters, and missionaries who lead more people to Christ. The replication continues from generation to generation, and depends on this evolution: believers growing into active and serving leaders. Training and theological education are the keys that give believers the knowledge, tools, and confidence to do this multiplying work.

On all of our fields, in some way or another, we have missionaries involved in identifying, training, and empowering indigenous leaders to take over churches and ministries. They partner together, learning from each other and inspiring one another.

As you read this issue of the Message, I hope you see ABWE’s vision, and that you get a broader, long-term view of mission work. Articles here tell how leadership training is driving missions movements around the world. There are stories of leaders who, through theological education, have been empowered to make a difference. Notice what pastors in other countries face and how they need unique wisdom to lead their congregations. Pray that God will raise up godly men and women in every country who will make multiplication their responsibility, so that future generations will praise His name.

Angela Shuff, Editor