Founder’s Vision
I recognised that the wealth of Christian resources could amplify my efforts
For over four decades, my journey of utilising Christian resources to evangelise those who don’t believe, disciple those who do, and empower others to do the same, has been a remarkable experience. In the final twenty years of this timeframe, I fulfilled the role of a pastor, where I incorporated Christian resources into the methodology of how I carried out my ministry.
Throughout this path, I discovered that much of the challenging work in ministry could be made easier by tapping into the wisdom and accomplishments of those who had expertise in various areas. Just as a doctor might refer patients to specialists for specialised care, I recognised that the wealth of Christian resources could amplify my efforts in serving the Lord far beyond what I could achieve on my own.
We Can Do It the Easy or Hard Way
I came to understand that the hard way in ministry was attempting to tackle everything on your own. The easier way was to use what others had already accomplished and build upon it.
For instance, in counselling, I would first find out the purpose of the session, then suggest reading or watching material to be done before the session. We then would discuss what was learned, and then I would give my advice, usually followed by more recommended reading or watching. Indeed, frequently, the incorporation of Christian resources made the counselling sessions unnecessary.
Here are a few instances of how
I've made use of Christian resources:
- During a conversation, I express my Christian beliefs. Someone mentions they're inclined towards the Big Bang and evolution rather than God. I share my perspective, and their interest grows. To help them explore further, I suggest watching the "God of Wonders" documentary on YouTube and provide them with the link.
- After watching this, they have questions about creation / evolution. I suggest further websites and provide them with links.
- After exploring these websites, their curiosity turns towards the Christian faith. I suggest that they watch a story about a surfer's near-death experience, in which he shares his visions of heaven and hell. I then provide them with a YouTube link.
- After viewing the story, I provide them with a booklet on faith called “Awakening”. As they read it, they find salvation. I take them to church and discover that they're already familiar with the concept of water baptism through the booklet and now want to be baptised ASAP.
- I give them a new believers Bible, suggest reading plans, podcasts, Christian radio apps, and other teaching materials to deepen their faith. I then provide links.
- As they mature in their faith and actively participate and serve in the church, I purchase them a study Bible (this may be after 2 weeks or 2 months). I then take the time to guide them in understanding how to effectively use it for their spiritual growth.
- I observe that when they receive Christian resources from me, they also pass them on to their friends who become intrigued. I then guide them on how they can continue to assist these new friends on their own journey. This initiates a chain reaction that continues to expand...
- Someone is having trouble in a relationship because they don't know about personal boundaries. I suggest they check out a resource called "Boundaries" and give them links to the eBook on Amazon or an 8-part series on YouTube.
- After reading some teaching material on the King James Bible being the only true Bible, a Christian becomes confused and decides to destroy all his other Bibles. I recommend he read the eBook “The King James Only Debate” and provide a link on Amazon.
- A wife endures abuse due to her husband's drinking. She thinks she can't leave him due to her lack of understanding of the scriptures. I recommend that she read “Divorce and Remarriage” by Ken Chant and then provide her with a link.
- Someone escapes a legalistic church and struggles with embracing grace. I recommend they watch the “God’s Lavish Grace” series by Terry Virgo on YouTube or read his eBook from Amazon – I then provide links.
Over time, following this approach has granted me the chance to offer guidance to numerous individuals at different points along their faith journey. It has also helped me avoid wasteful time usage since individuals engage with resources at their preferred pace. This enables me to concentrate on those who require my support the most, as well as other important needs.
Sadly, I’ve witnessed many Pastors and Christians labouring in the Great Commission without tapping into the numerous Christian Resources available by experienced fellow believers. Some believe they don’t need help, while others are unaware of available resources or how to access them.
If you identify with these challenges, this website is designed with you in mind.
Shane Whitbourn
Explore Grow Go Founder
