By Patrick Readson

God is transforming lives in the Thyolo District of Malawi in remarkable ways this year. As a result, communities like Mtendere (Mpino 1 & Mpino 2) have been experiencing significant spiritual and numerical growth. Mervis and I, Patrick, have been leading many men, women, and youth to embrace their role as Disciples of Christ. What began as a small movement has now blossomed into a vibrant ministry with lasting impact.

At the heart of this discipleship movement is the Great Commission in Matthew 28:19, where Jesus calls us to “make disciples of all nations.” These words guide our work and motivate us to ensure that no one is left out of God’s call to spread the gospel and make disciples. In this photo, Mervis (on the left) stands beside Village Chief Mpino, who opened the door for Mervis to conduct discipleship work in her area.

We follow the Disciplers International Step-by-Step method, focusing on teaching, training, and equipping others to become disciple-makers. This process mirrors the example of Jesus when He trained His 12 disciples. As the Apostle Paul encouraged Timothy to make disciples who make disciples (2 Timothy 2:2), we do likewise by entrusting the teachings of Jesus Christ to faithful men, women, and youth, empowering them to pass it on to others.

The journey for these disciples is both rewarding and challenging. Disciples start by learning foundational Christian truths, followed by practical training in how to share their faith with others. The process emphasizes living out their faith daily, just as James called his readers to “be doers of the word, and not hearers only, deceiving yourselves” (James 1:22). This call to action has shaped the lives of many in Mtendere, Mpino 1, and Mpino 2.      

One of the most encouraging aspects of this discipleship movement is how it has united men, women, and youth in a common purpose. In a world where divisions often exist, the gospel of Christ has brought these communities together. In Galatians 3:28, Paul reminds us, “There is neither Jew nor Greek, there is neither slave nor free, there is no male and female, for you are all one in Christ Jesus.” This verse has become a reality in these villages, where every person, regardless of age or gender, has a vital role in the discipleship process.

Mervis has been instrumental in training women and leading groups that are focused on equipping women to be dedicated and devoted followers of Christ and to share their faith freely. They are to be praised not only for their faith but for the many ways through which they are impacting others, both in their homes and in their communities.

Men are also engaged in discipleship training, as well as youth. In Proverbs 22:6 we are reminded of the importance of training young people in the ways of the Lord. The youth in Thyolo are eager to grow in their faith, knowing that the lessons they learn now will shape their future. Mervis and I are passionate about involving young people, because they are the future leaders of the church. As they grow, we are confident that our youth will carry on this ministry with commitment and faithfulness by discipling others in the same way they have been discipled.

One of the key tools we have used in the discipleship process is the small discipleship booklets. These booklets, which Mervis and I created, contain essential discipleship materials that help guide new believers through their journey of faith with Jesus. The simplicity of these booklets makes them easy to use in various settings, whether in a church gathering, a home, or in one-on-one discipleship meetings.

However, while these booklets have been instrumental in the growth of these disciples, they are not a substitute for the Bible itself. The Word of God remains the ultimate source of truth, and our desire is to see every disciple equipped with their own Bible. The Scriptures are foundational to our faith, and without God’s Word, disciples are missing a critical and necessary tool for spiritual growth. Hunger for God’s Word is growing in Thyolo District and those who have completed the discipleship process are eager to deepen their relationship with Christ by studying the Scriptures. Yet, many of them do not have access to their own Bibles. Psalm 119:105 declares, “Your word is a lamp to my feet and a light to my path,” and without Bibles, many new disciples are walking without this essential light. We pray for God’s provisions and to continue guiding us on or ministry in Thyolo District.