One of my favorite mottos from many years ago is this: start small, go deep, think big. I’ve found over time that this approach leads to quality multiplication. Too often we want to start big before something has been field-tested. Or we want to skip over the going deep part. But taking this approach of “start small, go deep, think big” gives you a chance to test out an approach and make the necessary corrections and tweaks before multiplying it. That may slow down your starting time out of the gate, but it leads to multiplication with a much higher degree of quality.
When you have a system that is multiplying disciples, groups, leaders or churches, it’s common to see a slowing of momentum at the 3rd or 4th generation. One solution that is often helpful is to intentionally move a stronger leader out from the center of the system to the edges so you can see stronger multiplication coming from that point.
In an electricity distribution network, you establish a central node to distribute energy. When the line gets weak, you can establish a new node to extend energy from there. In the same way, putting a stronger leader out on the fringes creates a new center of energy that can extend further.
Whatever you want to end up with, you must start with in seed form. Always ask yourself the question, “What if it works?”
If this new ministry takes off and grows, how will you handle the growth? What unit will you need to multiply? Group leaders? Meeting space? Discipler/mentors? Teachers? How will you do that?
Create a growth plan before the growth takes place; that way you’ll be ready.
I recently asked a friend and colleague about his missionary experience in the Philippines, how he came to be there, and lessons he has learned along the way. I wanted to share his responses with you over the course of this week.
A journey to fruitfulness, by guest blogger Dave White
I’ve done conducted a lot of coach trainings over the years. Last week in Denver I did my first coach training geared specifically for missional leaders. Missional coach training: coaching for incarnational, missional ministry. It felt different. Since then I’ve been reflecting on what made this training even different. I’ve come to a couple of different conclusions.
Note: part of a series started April 22nd.
A community of Jesus-followers engaged in hands-on ministry to serve the world around them is a thing of beauty. Fruit will be borne from people reflecting Jesus with a spirit of humility. Sometimes it takes a long time, but it will come. So what do we do with that fruit?
The fifth and last question my coach asked me was, “What is the multiplication strategy?” Essentially, how will you take that fruit, capitalize on it and build off of it? How will you be strategic about your investment?
Gary Reinecke
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