Alexander Graham Bell knew the importance of preparation way back at the turn of the previous century. Millenia earlier, Jesus showed the importance of preparation by working with and mentoring his disciples for three years before they were ready to be thrown into the world of unbelief and opposition. They received internship training while Jesus was still available to give guidance. After three years, Jesus left them, not to be on their own, but with the Holy Spirit to guide and empower them.
We should do no less for our global partners who are going out into a hostile world. There’s a battle out there, one that we cannot see, but one stronger than any physical powers. We don’t send soldiers out to physical war unprepared. We should not send global partners out to spiritual battles without being prepared.
In looking at the Merriam-Webster Thesaurus online the word “prepared” presents some interesting words, such as, readied, fortified, groomed, trained, primed, equipped, educated, girded, armed, steeled. Strong words indicating determination and focused training.
The definition on the same site is, “as in ready, being in a state of fitness for some experience or action.” It gives the example of a marathoner who prepared for a grueling race. The Bible also gives the example of a runner who has trained and set aside everything that will hold him back. The author of Hebrews encourages us to “throw off everything that hinders and the sin that so easily entangles, and let us run with perseverance the race marked out for us.” (Hebrews 12:1bNIV)
FEBC Commission on Global Partnerships has drafted a “Global Partner Preparation Handbook” to help churches prepare upcoming global partners for the life ahead. It covers five dimensions in which a person must develop to be effective in their ministry.
- Growing in Maturity: Spiritually, Emotionally, & Relationally
- Growing in Commitment to Body Life
- Growing in Knowledge
- Growing in Ministry, Training and Involvement
- Growing in Relationships with Senders
Pathway of the FEBC Global Partner Preparation Program
- MEET WITH CHURCH LEADER(S)
- SEEK A SPIRITUALLY MATURE ACCOUNTABILITY PARTNER
- WORK TOGETHER WITH YOUR ACCOUNTABILITY PARTNER THROUGH THE 5 DIMENSIONS
If you visit FEBC website at https://www.fellowshipforward.org/global-partner-preparation.html, you will be able to download the brochure that tells more about this program. The actual handbook is available through the church contacting FEBC. The program is only effective with the church, the mentor, and the prospective global partner working together.
Our battle is not against flesh and blood – our global partners must be ready to fight against spiritual forces. They must be prepared in every way, and we must be ready to support with prayer.
“Put on the whole armor of God that you may be able to stand against the schemes of the devil…praying at all times in the Spirit, with all kinds of prayer and supplications…” (Ephesians 6:10-18 ESV/NIV)
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