Focus on Reproduction, Mentor's Guide, MG12

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F O C U S O N R E P R O D U C T I O N

individual side of helping new converts to grow. In this lesson we want to focus on the reality that disciples are grown in the greenhouse of faith, the Church. This is why Equipping is connected to the Assemble and Nurture phases of church planting. To separate these practices from the local church ensures defeated and isolated converts. Attempt to draw these principles and perspective out in this lesson. Notice again how the objectives are clearly stated, calling for your ongoing emphasis of them throughout the lesson, during your review of the key points, and through and interaction with the students. This devotion focuses on the intimacy that the apostles had in raising their children spiritually. With the same kind and intensity of passion, wisdom, and care that good physical parents provide each day to their children, so the apostles provided to those under their charge in the Lord. This spiritual parenthood, this intense loving tenderness on behalf of newborn Christians is deeply characteristic of all vital church planting in both the Assemble and Nurture stages. Look at some of the texts which underscore this important truth: 1 Cor. 4.14-17 - I do not write these things to make you ashamed, but to admonish you as my beloved children. [15] For though you have countless guides in Christ, you do not have many fathers. For I became your father in Christ Jesus through the Gospel. [16] I urge you, then, be imitators of me. [17] That is why I sent you Timothy, my beloved and faithful child in the Lord, to remind you of my ways in Christ, as I teach them everywhere in every church. 2 Cor. 12.14-15 - Here for the third time I am ready to come to you. And I will not be a burden, for I seek not what is yours but you. For children are not obligated to save up for their parents, but parents for their children. [15] I will most gladly spend and be spent for your souls. If I love you more, am I to be loved less?

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