Pioneering Movements: Leadership That Multiplies Disciples and Churches

by Steve Addison

What does that look like? What do movement pioneers do? They follow the example of Jesus and the disciples he trained. Movement pioneers see the end. They obey God’s call to join his mission. They submit to the leadership of Jesus through the Holy Spirit and the power of his living Word. Movement pioneers connect with people. They cross boundaries (geographic, linguistic, cultural, social, economic) to establish contact with people who are far from God. They seek out responsive people who have been prepared by God. Movement pioneers share the gospel. They communicate the truth about the nature of God and salvation through Christ. They equip new disciples to spread the good news throughout their communities. Movement pioneers train disciples. They lead people to faith in Jesus Christ (conversion, baptism, gifts of the Holy Spirit) and teach them to obey all that Jesus has commanded. Movement pioneers gather communities. They form new believers into church communities featuring the observance of the Lord’s Supper, transformation of behavior, love, service and witness. Movement pioneers multiply workers. They equip local church leaders to multiply disciples and churches. In partnership with the churches, movement pioneers form apostolic teams that are launched into unreached fields.