First, the use of a specific number goal implies an evaluation of our effectiveness and encourages our participation.

Second, it gives notice that the Region will focus its events and services on those products which will empower and assist congregations in this effort. After all, only congregations will make this a reality.

Lastly, and most importantly, it owns up to the fact that the Great Commission is in the essence of our being. We only endanger ourselves if we neglect the charge to “make disciples.”

Many thoughtful people have come to the conclusion that, over the past three decades, the mainline Protestant denominations in America have functionally abandoned the Great Commission. Ouch!!!

Indeed, evangelism does not enjoy automatic favor in many congregations. And among those who do promote evangelism, too often it is a truncated form that is not true to the command to “make disciples.”

Discipleship involves a path to be walked, not simply a gate to be opened. Spiritual development is a process—there is no graduation (at least this side of the Second Coming). The authentic goal of evangelism is not the production of nominal Christians, but of devoted Disciples driven by a living relationship with God.

Preoccupation with the conversion event, and the neglect of the discipleship process has resulted in numbers of undiscipled church members, presenting one of the greatest challenges facing the church.

Evangelism and discipleship are inseparable. And churches struggle because they settle for half the loaf. (It doesn’t matter which half!)

While the goal to welcome 25,000 new believers includes evangelism, let’s be clear that this is not just about the conversion event. It is the Region’s commitment to life-long discipleship.

Evangelism (and subsequent discipleship) is not intrusive; it is responsive to the spiritual yearnings of non-believers in loving, hospitable ways.

I have a faith I live by;

I am part of a community of faith;

I am proud of my community of faith and believe you could benefit from being part of it.

Congregations are “missionary outposts” where discipleship involves both invitation and itinerary.