In the Middle East, ministry can be challenging and resources scarce. Having served on the ground here, I’ve seen firsthand how ministries that focus on multiplication endure, while those that rely on a single leader struggle to survive. So how do we train leaders who, in turn, train others? Below are some field-tested strategies for you to consider.
1. Shift from Teaching to Discipling
Training leaders isn’t about filling heads with knowledge; it’s about shaping hearts and lives. In the West, we often equate leadership training with classroom learning. But in Middle Eastern contexts, discipleship—walking alongside someone in life and faith—is far more impactful.
Example: When I was mentoring Ahmed, a young believer from a Muslim background, our most meaningful lessons didn’t happen during formal Bible studies. They happened over shared meals, during late-night conversations, and in moments of prayer amid life’s chaos. Discipleship is life-on-life.
2. Model What You Want to Multiply
Leaders reproduce what they see. If we want leaders who train others, we must model that behavior ourselves. This means being transparent about our own challenges and showing how we lean on Christ in the process.
Example: I made it a point to invite emerging leaders into my own ministry work—not just to watch, but to participate. Whether it was leading a small group or navigating a difficult conversation with a seeker, they learned by doing, not just observing.
3. Focus on Character Before Skills
In ministry, character outweighs competence. A skilled leader without integrity can do more harm than good. In the Middle East, where trust and relationships are paramount, character is the foundation of sustainable leadership.
Example: I once worked with a dynamic, charismatic leader who could draw crowds effortlessly. But over time, cracks in his character led to division and hurt within the community. Contrast that with quieter leaders whose humility and faithfulness created lasting impact.
4. Empower, Don’t Control
It’s tempting to hold tightly to leadership roles, especially when we’ve invested so much. But sustainable ministry requires open hands. Empower emerging leaders to take risks, make mistakes, and grow.
Example: I remember the first time I let one of my trainees lead a Bible study on his own. It wasn’t perfect, but it was authentic. Over time, he grew in confidence and eventually started discipling others—a ripple effect that wouldn’t have happened if I’d clung to control.
5. Create a Culture of Reproducibility
From the start, set the expectation that every leader you train will, in turn, train others. This isn’t a side note—it’s the core of the mission.
Example: When we launched new discipleship groups, we made it clear that each participant was expected to lead their own group within a year. This mindset shift created a multiplication movement that spread far beyond what any of us could have imagined.
Conclusion: The Legacy of Multiplication
Sustainable ministry isn’t about building your own platform—it’s about leaving a legacy of leaders who carry the mission forward. In the Middle East, where the harvest is plentiful but the workers are few, this approach is not just wise—it’s vital.
As you invest in training leaders, remember: you’re not just impacting one person—you’re influencing generations. Plant those seeds wisely, nurture them faithfully, and watch as God brings the growth beyond what you could ever imagine.
What strategies have you found effective in training leaders who train others? Share your experiences in the comments—let’s learn from each other’s journeys!
The Basin and Towel 