“Go and make disciples of all nations” – Matthew 28:19
Planning a church program? Here are three simple questions that keep your programs focused on the Great Commission – turning “meh” into “life-changing.” First, solve the People Puzzle.
Hey there, fellow servants!
Ever wonder if your church programs actually help people grow closer to Jesus? After years of programs that fizzled out, I’ve learned the best programs start with three simple questions.
Question 1: Who Are We Actually Trying to Help?
Before getting excited about brilliant ideas, know who you’re serving. Jesus said “go and make disciples” – so identify those future disciples!
Think About:
- New folks who just walked through your doors looking terrified
- Young people who want real faith, not just Sunday dress-up
- Community members who don’t attend church but need hope
- Your congregation – we all need to keep growing
Write each group on sticky notes. This keeps you focused on real people, not abstract ideas.
Question 2: What Do These People Actually Need?
Get real. People don’t need another Bible study just because we think they’re nice. They need something that helps them grow as Jesus’ disciples.
Ask:
- What’s keeping them from growing in faith? (Busy schedules? Church confusion? Never learned to pray?)
- What would make them say “This is exactly what I needed!”
- How can we help their next step with Jesus?
Make it concrete: “help 25 new members feel confident praying” instead of “help people grow spiritually.”
Real Talk: Sometimes what people want isn’t what they need. They might want easy answers but need tools for hard questions. Give them both!
Question 3: How Will This Actually Work?
If people can’t figure out how to participate, your program will flop.
Map the Journey:
- New People: Casual coffee → “Faith 101” group → mentor pairing
- Youth: Leadership roles, social media faith content, service projects
- Community: No-pressure service projects → story sharing → faith exploration
The Secret: Every step should help people receive AND give back. Disciples multiply – they learn then teach, get help then help others.
The Bottom Line
Every program should help someone take their next step following Jesus and equip them to help others do the same. It’s about changed lives, not fancy programs.
When we start with these questions, programs stop being “church activities” and become discipleship launching pads.
Remember: The best programs aren’t perfect – they’re faithful to Jesus’ call. You’ve got this!
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