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Developing Reproducers

By October 17, 2006June 19th, 2014No Comments

Ministry Toolbox

In 2 Timothy 2:2 the apostle Paul instructed young pastor Timothy, ”And the things that you have heard from me among many witnesses, commit these to faithful men who will be able to teach others also.” Paul was calling for the development of reproducers—individuals who have a working theology and know “these things” personally and who will pass their understanding on to others.

To develop reproducers, our church is using the 2 Timothy 2-2 Bible Study by Dr. Bradley Brandt. This resource instructs believers to win people to Christ by teaching believers key areas of theology in a setting conducive for accountability. The areas of theology—Scripture, God, Christ, mankind and sin, salvation, the Holy Spirit, holy living, the local church, and end times—represent the “these things” of Paul’s challenge to Timothy.

In the first year of the three-year study, the potential reproducer should gain a Biblical understanding of the ministry of reproducing, as well as an understanding of the nine theological topics. During years two and three, potential reproducers receive a deeper study that broadens their understanding and equips them to be able to pass on that which they have learned.

Each “Two-Two” team of potential reproducers has two to four team members, with a designated team leader. Teams are intentionally small, allowing for greater accountability and more flexibility in scheduling. Teams meet once a month, September through May. Meetings last for up to two hours and consist of prayer, accounting for the previous month’s commitments, teaching, and the focus of next month’s accountability. During the month, participants use the material provided for research, reading, resolution, and review. Teams meet in members’ homes, a setting in which they develop common bonds and strengthen their dedication to one another. The goal is not to merely train leaders but to develop reproducers—men who are willing and able to reinvest in the lives of others that which has been invested in them.

Our first-year study at church brought one team through the program with three potential reproducers. This fall we started the second-year study with the same team and are offering the first-year study again for additional men. Next year new teams will be led by the men who have completed the first two years.

Whether you are a small or a large church, God’s principal of reproducing believers works! As men support one another and hold each other accountable as they grow in God’s Word, the study yields mature, reproducing believers.

Michael Bartlett, ministry leader
Faith Baptist Church
Adams, Wisconsin

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