© 2012 Emmanuel Gospel Center Living System Ministry Multiplication The Goal of the Process of the Gospel

The great commission An expression of multiplication we find in Scripture: “Therefore go and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit, and teaching them to obey everything I have commanded you.” Matthew 28:19-20 © 2012 Emmanuel Gospel Center

What is multiplication?  It is the goal of the Process of the Gospel  It is future-focused. We envision those we have walked beside to do “greater things” (John 14). We rejoice in the potential of people who are being set free. We envision new generations following Christ. © 2012 Emmanuel Gospel Center

A birthing process In multiplication, the people who we are working with start reaching people we could never reach. This is a birthing process – making disciples who will make disciples! © 2012 Emmanuel Gospel Center

We can hinder multiplication Growth take time. We can’t do anything to rush the process. We can do nothing to actually cause growth. If we are in a hurry, or if we think we are in control, we can hinder multiplication. © 2012 Emmanuel Gospel Center

Growth  Growth takes time.  We must focus on long-term goals.  Small steps are important. Plants that grow slowly put down deeper roots. It is hard to see growth in an oak tree, but healthy oak trees are growing! © 2012 Emmanuel Gospel Center

Growth  Growth never depends on our efforts.  When working with living systems, important changes are caused by multiple variables.  When multiplication occurs, we will have very little to do with it. Humility is essential! We humbly watch God’s living systems at work. © 2012 Emmanuel Gospel Center

Our role The best ways to frame our role is to consider how a gardener nurtures his plants, but is not the one who causes them to grow. © 2012 Emmanuel Gospel Center