By Clement Ior

Being a disciple involves making disciples. The biblical injunction in 2 Timothy 2:2 underscores a timeless truth that has proven effective over the years: the key to exponential church growth lies in disciples who, in turn, disciple others. Lydia and I seek to exemplify this principle on the campus at the University of Jos. Throughout 13 years of marriage, we have discipled undergraduate students in the university. At the end of each academic cycle we organize sessions to gather feedback from graduating disciples about their experiences and to prepare them for life after graduation. As a result of this ministry, those we have discipled are now making disciples themselves, perpetuating this cycle of growth and impact.

While this method of spiritual multiplication does not guarantee overnight success, it does require a painstaking multidisciplinary approach similar to the hardship and focus of a soldier, the discipline and resilience of an athlete, and the hardworking spirit and patience of a farmer. All of this comes with the hope of pleasing the One who enlisted us, aiming for a crown of enduring disciples and the joy of seeing our first fruits flourish.

This year was no exception for us as we gathered a group of 13 graduates from various academic backgrounds for in-depth discussions on important topics. The meeting was ardently charged with students expressing a mix of hope, optimism, and fear as they prepared to integrate into the society at-large.

Having graduated, the future looks bright, and hopes are high. We don't yet know where they will be posted for their one year of compulsory National Youth Service Corps (NYSC) in Nigeria or where they will live as they practice their vocations. However, one thing is certain: they are prepared for every good work, reflecting what God has planted in them. These young men and women are part of a new generation of faithful believers who have listened closely in the presence of faithful witnesses.

We trust that the responsibility of discipleship will not stop with them but that they will pass it on to others.

Reflecting on their past years of ministry among university students, we rejoice as new disciplers witness the ripple effect of their disciples' impact in various places they themselves may not reach. Currently, some of our disciples are undergoing their one-year compulsory National Youth Service Corps (NYSC) in different states across the federation, actively making disciples in the process. Sanda is serving in Gombe, Ribetnaan in Yobe, Kenneth and Esla in Borno, Martins in Bauchi, Dorcas in Abuja, Linda in Jigawa, and Tiva in Jos. Others are pursuing postgraduate programs: Luimommei is studying MSc in Veterinary Anatomy at University of Ibadan in Oyo State, while Luther is pursuing an MSc in Pharmacology at the University of Jos. Look for more to come in the next blog - Part 2!