Workshop #1: A Distance Growth/Development Paradigm

The Apostolic Heart in Ministry over Distance

Even though Paul was only in Thessalonica for 3-4 weeks, it is truly amazing to hear him describe the depth of his relationship with them….  “We became very dear to you as we were delighted to impart to you not only the gospel of God, but also our very lives.”

Because of Paul’s love for the Thessalonians, his commitment and involvement in their growth and development stretched beyond his physical presence with them. Though he had very little time face-to face with these disciples, this did not stop him from investing and building into their lives in every way possible.

In Catalytic ministry we have the challenge of developing leaders and movements over distance or with limited time being with them in person.  Unlike Paul, we have a number of digital tools at our fingertips that enable us to add a personal touch as we communicate and coach over a distance. Technology aids us in closing the ‘distance gap’!

Similar to Paul, the challenge we face is how to bridge the gap that distance creates in coaching and discipling without frequent face-to-face interactions.

When you think about developing leaders in a new movement location, what can you learn from what the Apostle Paul and his companions’ experienced in Thessalonica?

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Assignment: Read Acts 17:1-10 and I Thessalonians 1-3 and answer the following questions.

Key concept: We bridge the gap of distance in developing leaders by utilizing multiple connection and touch points over time.

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Just as Paul was effective at coaching and developing people from a distance, it is also possible for us to be effective from a distance.  The critical question is: How can you use the resources at hand to bridge the gap that distance creates?

How and when this development takes place will be considered next.