Chapter One: Introduction: FOCUS Kenya Comprehensive Discipleship Manual

CHAPTER ONE: INTRODUCTION
1.1. FOCUS
Fellowship of Christian Unions (FOCUS) is the umbrella body that links and networks Christian Unions in
institutions of higher learning in Kenya and is registered with the Registrar of Societies since 1973. FOCUS is
affiliated to the National Council of Churches of Kenya (NCCK), Evangelical Alliance of Kenya (EAK) and
International Fellowship of Evangelical Students (IFES). Currently, FOCUS works with One Hundred and Forty
Four (144) Christian Unions.
1.2. Discipleship in FOCUS

Discipleship is one of the four objectives of FOCUS. FOCUS is committed to deepen and strengthen the
spiritual life of members through Bible teaching, study, prayer and fellowship so that, as the Holy Spirit
works in them, they may become more Christ-like in character, behaviour and effective witness.
The FOCUS discipleship model envisages wholesome nurture of Christian Students into authentic disciples,
living effectively as Christians in and out of campus. We seek to raise life-long witnesses of Jesus Christ
bringing godly impact in the church and society as they submit to his Lordship in all.
1.3. The Discipleship Manual

The Comprehensive FOCUS Discipleship Manual is intended to be the key reference and instructional
resource material for FOCUS Staff and Christian Union Leaders in designing and running discipleship
programs in the Christian Union. The Manual also seeks to provide an integrated framework for
conceptualization and practice of discipleship in FOCUS through the Christian Unions.
1.4. The specific objectives of the Manual therefore are:

1. To clearly define the overall discipleship strategy of FOCUS and by extension of the CU.
2. To provide comprehensive guidelines, curricula and content for discipleship in the Christian Unions.
3. To provide guidance to staff and students on design and use of resource materials to facilitate and
enhance the discipleship processes for students from first year to their final year.
FOCUS Kenya Comprehensive Discipleship Manual Page 1

CHAPTER TWO: UNDERSTANDING CHRISTIAN DISCIPLESHIP
2.1. Introduction
Understanding the concept of Christian Discipleship is crucial to the effectiveness of FOCUS Staff and
Christian Union (CU) Leaders in running various discipleship programs in the CU. This section therefore
describes the foundation upon which the rest of the details in this manual are developed.
2.1.1. The areas covered under this section include:

i. The concept of Christian Discipleship
ii. Distinctives of Christian discipleship;
iii. Goals of Christian Discipleship
iv. The Cost of Christian Discipleship
v. Summary of Key Points
2.2. THE CONCEPT OF DISCIPLESHIP
2.2.1. Christians are to be Disciples of Christ

Did you know that the term “Christian” appears only 3 times in the Bible, while
“disciple(s)” appears 269 times? Two of these instances are used by non-
Christians to identify those who became followers of the new “sect” of Jesus
Christ (Acts 11:26; 26:28).
Only in one instance was the term “Christian” used within the church context as a distinctive description of
those who, unlike the ungodly “murderer or thief or any other kind of criminal, or a meddler” were willing to
“bear that name” (of Jesus) by undergoing unjust suffering (see 1 Pet.4:14-16f). Clearly, neither Jesus nor his
disciples thought themselves to be adherents of a popular social movement, as did adherents of Jewish
sects of their day.
2.2.2. Exploring the Meaning of Discipleship

In Greek, the noun “disciple” (mathetes) was used to mean any of the following (Watson, 1930):
 An apprentice of some trade,
 A student of some subject or
 A pupil of some teacher.
The first-century Graeco-Roman world had a variety of religious, philosophical and political leaders who had
followers (disciples) committed to their cause, teaching and beliefs (Reid, 2004). By the time Jesus began his
ministry, the basic idea of discipleship was widely accepted.
There were already at least three discipleship traditions in Palestine at this time. These were:
a. The Pharisees- preoccupied with accurate and detailed knowledge of the Jewish tradition in
the written Torah (Old Testament) and the oral Torah (traditions of the Fathers). They would
then become Rabbis after extensive training. A good example is Gamaliel (See Acts 5:34, NIV;
see also Matt.22:15-16; Mark 2:18-20).
b. Moses’ disciples- who were students of Mosaic Law (See John 9:24-29).
c. John the Baptist- John had disciples, such as Philip and Andrew, Peter’s brother, who
eventually left John to follow Jesus, (See John 1:35-42; cf. Mark 2:18; Luke 7:18-20).

2.2.3. There was a paradigm shift with Jesus’ Disciples:
a. Jesus called them to himself, not to a cause or an ideology or a teaching- although indeed Jesus was a
teacher with a message, and a leader with a mission, his ultimate aim was to call people to himself, so
that they might be with him and become like him. Jesus sought the transformation of the whole life of his
disciples, while the Pharisees and Greek philosophers sought information and impartation of knowledge
and conformity to their worldviews. Christian Discipleship is therefore a calling by Jesus to Himself and to
a Christ-like lifestyle.
b. Jesus was the one who took the initiative to call those who would be his disciples, and not the other way
round. In the case of the Pharisees, and indeed in the prevailing Jewish and Greek traditions, it was
individuals who sought out teachers or Rabbis to be apprentices under their instruction as disciples or
pupils. Christian discipleship must emulate this intentional initiative. we see in the ministry of Jesus. He
looked for his disciples in the fishing boats and other ordinary places. Then he intentionally helped them
become new people (Fryling, 1989).
a. The loyalty and allegiance of Jesus’ disciples, unlike those of the Pharisees and other Rabbis, was to be a
lifetime commitment, not a limited period of time.
b. Fourthly, while the disciples of Pharisees and other traditions were motivated by the promise of
greatness and accompanying financial rewards, the disciples of Jesus were
DISTINCTIONS:
to walk in his footsteps, motivated by servant-hood. Christian Discipleship
Discipleship is a PROCESS-
is therefore a costly affair demanding sacrifice. the spiritual journey,
through which we
2.2.4. What Then Does Christian Discipleship Entail? BECOME Disciples of
In the New Testament, we see the pattern of Christian discipleship in two Christ. This entails
perspectives: personally KNOWING
Christ; BECOMING like
a. Discipleship as a process- this is a calling which entails:
Christ; LIVING life in
 Believing in Jesus Christ for salvation, and beginning a new life of faith Christ.
in Him. There can be no discipleship without the initial step of new birth
or conversion! Discipleship is
 Progressive growth from spiritual infancy to maturity (Christ-likeness), aPRACTICE- the ministry
TASK and PATTERN
characterised by transformation in character, and ability to fully
through which we MAKE
function in the body of Christ (See Heb.5:11-6:2; Cf. Eph.4:14-16).
others Disciples for Christ,
 The Christian commitment of every believer to a life-time journey of in obedienceto the Great
daily obedience to his Word, focused on eternity with Christ (Phil.3:12- Commission.This is what is
14; Cf.1 Thess.1:9-10). called the ART OF
DISCIPLEMAKING.
b. Discipleship as a practice- the art of making and nurturing disciples for
Christ, where:
 A mature believer (already a Disciple of Christ!) consistently walks with another believer with the aim
of helping them to grow to spiritual maturity.
 The aim is not for the discipler to “clone” themselves by making “carbon copies”, but to reproduce
other disciples (in the pattern of how Jesus did it), “until Christ is formed” in the new believers (See
Gal.4:19; cf. Eph.3:16-19ff).

2.3. WHAT ARE THE DEFINING CHARACTERISTICS OF CHRISTIAN DISCIPLESHIP?
a. It is intentional and individualized- it is premeditated, deliberate and planned.
 We can see this from the example of Jesus Christ when calling his disciples, e.g.
 Simon Peter, James and John- See Luke 5:1-11
 Levi- See Luke 5:27-32
 Philip and Nathaniel- See John 1:43-51
 Jesus required individual response to him- See Luke 14:25-27.
 This act of Jesus in choosing his disciples is a fundamental disciple-making principle, called the
“principle of selection” (Eims, 1978).
b. It is about coming to Jesus to be with him (see Mark 3:14).
 We are primarily called into a living, life-long relationship with Jesus- we will never outgrow this
need!
 This is clearly demonstrated in the life and ministry of Jesus who spent most of his time with his
disciples, during which he did many things we them, e.g.
 Special times for instruction- See Luke 10:38-11:13
 Spending time with him in fellowship- See John 1:35-39;Luke 9:10
 Demonstrating an example for them to follow- See John 13:1-5, 12-17.
 This is what is known as the “principle of association” in disciplemaking (Eims, 1978).
c. It is about coming to Jesus in order to be sent by him- (See Mark 3:14, 15; Acts 1:8).
 This was the second strand of Jesus’ intention in calling his disciples.
 As part of their discipleship training, Jesus sent his disciples on various missions, e.g.
 The 12 disciples on a mission to the Jews (the lost sheep of Israel) (See Matt.10:1-8f; cf.; Mark
6:7-13; Luke 9:1-6).
 The seventy two disciples, sent two by two on a mission (see Luke10:1-24).
d. It is ultimately focused on transformation- (See Eph.4:17-23ff; 5:1-7, 22-33; 6:1-9).
 The goal of discipleship training is for disciples to become like Christ.
 Knowing Christ must lead to becoming like Christ (seen in the fruit of the Spirit).
 This transformation is demonstrated in a life glorifying God through “good works which God
prepared in advance for us to do” (Eph.2:10; cf.)
 This transformation begins with the individual, spreads to the whole body of Christ, permeates the
society and reaches nations of the world- as Christ envisioned!
e. It is a call for all, irrespective of their individual diversities or qualifications.
 Disciples of the Jesus, and later in early church demonstrated a rich diversity of Personalities ,
Educational/ professional training or background, Pre-conversion spiritual experience/ orientation,
Cultural background, Gifting/ talents, Ambition and interests in life etc.
f. It happens at different levels for different individuals- it must be contextualized.
 Individuals in the Fellowship are at different levels of spiritual growth and depth of commitment to
Christ.
 Although the content of discipleship is the same, and the goal is the same, there is no one-size-fits-
all approach or programme in disciple-making.
 How was this demonstrated in the discipleship ministry strategy of Jesus?
 He used the discipleship strategy of “concentration” (Hanks, Jr. & Shell, 1981) 1
1
Robert E. Coleman discusses Jesus’ principle and strategy of selection and concentration on a few disciples in
which, while affirming the place of outreach to the multitudes as part of his evangelistic strategy, nevertheless as
the company of followers increased by the middle of his second year, he devoted most of his remaining life on
earth on the twelve disciples. Coleman argues that it was “clear that Jesus intended these men to have unique

 Public preaching and teaching the multitudes in the open air
 Teaching people gathered in houses
 Meeting privately with individuals, e.g. Nicodemus
 Instructing the Twelve disciples
 Closer mentorship/ exposure and fellowship with the inner circle of Peter, John and
James.
 This strategy has been contextualized by the Saddleback Church (USA) 2 in developing their spiritual
commitment model (see the Appendix).
2.4. WHAT IS THE GOAL OF CHRISTIAN DISCIPLESHIP?

In the sermon on the mountain (Matthew 5,6&7), Jesus extensively discusses the
principles of the kingdom of God. These principles define the ideal marks of a true
disciple.
Edmund Chan, The founder of Global Alliance of Intentional Disciple Making Churches
gives seven distinguishing marks of true Biblical Discipleship from Matthew 5-7, as
follows:3
Quote
a. Biblical Discipleship produces a change in values and lifestyle(Matt 5:1-12)
“If you put first
Jesus expounded on Kingdom values on the basis of the beatitudes. things first, and
A change in values is demonstrated by a new life, evidenced in a total God will throw in
turn-around from the “old life” of sin to a Christ-centred life, actively second things
pursuing “true righteousness and holiness” together; but if put
See:Eph.2:1-3; 4:23-24; 1 Thess.1:8-10 second things first,
Evidence of bearing and ripening of the fruit of the Spirit – new, Godly you’ll lose both the
attitudes and virtues, godly speech and changed lifestyle (Gal.5:22-25; first and the second
Cf. Eph.4:17-32 etc.). things!”
Biblical values and convictions- through a renewed mind- Rom.12:2; C.S. Lewis
Rom.8:5-8; 1 Cor.6:12-13; 1 Cor.13:11 etc. Irish Scholar &
Spirit-controlled temperament –personality is being transformed by the Christian Apologist
power of the Holy Spirit, as they continue to live by the Spirit (Gal.5:18,
24, 25).
b. Biblical Discipleship produces clarity of purpose and mission (Matt 5:13-16)

Clarity about God’s purpose for the disciples’ lives- within the body of Christ, and in their
involvement as agents of transformation in God’s world (also see Eph.2:10).
True disciples are salt and light of the world.
Christian Discipleship produces disciples, who are making disciples and transforming nations.
privileges and responsibilities in the kingdom work.” This group was stratified further with what appeared to be
Jesus’ inner circle of the select apostolic group of Peter, James and John, who seemed to enjoy a more special
relationship with the Master than the nine. See, Coleman “Selection of Disciples” in Hanks, Jr., & Shell, eds.,
Discipleship: The Best Writings From the Most Experienced Disciple Makers, (Grand Rapids, MI: Zondervan,
1981), pp.41-53.
2
Doug Fields, Purpose Driven™ Youth Ministry: 9 Essential Foundations, (Grand Rapids, MI: Zondervan, 1998),
pp.86-97.
3
Adopted from the Regional Discipleship Conference (RDC-2014) Workbook. RDC 2014 was hosted by Christ Is The Answer
Ministries (CITAM) at CITAM Valley Road, Nairobi Kenya 9th-10th May 2015. Rev. Edmund Chan was the main Speaker.

True disciples have passion and develop ability to make other disciples- they not only have desire
(burden) to win non-believers to Christ, but also the skills to lead other people to Christ, and help
them get established in their faith (Mark 16:15-20; Luke 6:40; 2 Tim.2:24-26; Col.4:12-13; cf.
Heb.5:11-13).
c. Biblical Discipleship has Christ Jesus as the Standard (Matt 5:17-48)

Jesus in these verses was talking about the need to look not just at the letter of law, but even
more importantly, listen to spirit of the law.
The true Disciple’s commitment to obedience is not out of a sense of obligation -‘have to’ but
rather out of joyful and wilful obedience ‘want to’.
This is an inward outward expression of Christian life. Life and worship from the inside out!
d. Biblical Discipleship comes out of pure motives and produces disciples with pure motives (Matthew 6:1-
18)
Jesus Christ spoke about true spirituality and warned against showing off your acts of
righteousness before men.
The ultimate motive of true disciples is to glorify God and for the benefit of others (1 Corr 10:31)!
e. Biblical Discipleship produces true allegiance to Christ (Matthew 6:19-34)

Matthew 6:33 says, “But seek first the Kingdom of God and His righteousness and all these things
shall be added to you”.
Jesus said the greatest Commandment is Love. To love God with all your heart, soul, mind and
strength and to love your neighbour as yourself (Mark 12:28-31).
Love as the defining characteristic- Eph.5:1; Col.3, 17; cf.1 Thess.4:1ff.
Love exceeding love for self-Luke 14:25-27
Love as the ultimate test of our loyalty and devotion to Christ- John 21:15-22.
True disciples are devoted to the love of Christ first and foremost (magnificent obsession with
Christ), with a sincere commitment to please him.
This also involves taking responsibility in the body of Christ- through responsible membership &
participation, not only in the fellowship of believers (Acts 2:4247; Heb.10:24-25), but also actively
serving along their ministry gifts, and working for the unity of the body of Christ (Eph.4:3-6, 11-13, 15-
16; Rom.12:4-8).
f. Biblical Discipleship produces transformed, God-honouring relationships (Matthew 7:1-12)

Jesus said in Matthew 7:12 – “Therefore, however you want people to treat you, so treat
them…”
In the context of Christian fellowship – marked by love, forgiveness, integrity, purity, mutual
care etc.- Eph.4:25-5:4; cf. 1 Thess.4:3-10; 1 Tim.5:1-7
In the context of marriage – marked by unconditional love, submission and respect- Eph.5:22-
32; Cf. 1 Pet.3-7
In the context of family –marked by obedience and honour of parents, and Godly training and
upbringing of children-Eph.6:1-4
In the context of work –marked by a Christ-centred work-ethic governing both the masters
(employer) and servants (workers/ employees) – See Eph.6:5-9.
 Effective, practical living in the everyday life;
Where inner devotion to Christ is matched with a responsible public life

Where that life bears daily witness and respect of the unbelieving world
See- Eph.5:15 1 Thess.4:11-12; 2 Thess.3:11-13; 1Tim.4:15-16; 1 Tim.3:4-5.
g. Biblical Discipleship is established on firm foundation – The Word of God

True Disciples are able to handle God’s word correctly, in the discipline of consistent reading,
study and application- James 1:22-25; 2 Tim 3:14-17
This results inincreasing capacity to “distinguish between
good and evil” based on knowledge of God’s word- Heb.5:11- Scripture Passage
14 Large crowds were travelling
It also involves growing competence in instructing others in with Jesus, and turning to them
God’s word- 2 Tim.2:15 he said: “If anyone comes to
me and does not hate his father
and mother, his wife and
2.5. APPRECIATING THE COST OF DISCIPLESHIP children, his brothers and
Eugene Peterson in his book A Long Obedience in the Same Direction sisters- yes, even his own life-
points out the challenge of discipleship in today’s instant society he cannot be my disciple. And
(Peterson, 2000). He makes some important observations; anyone who does not carry his
 We are living at a time of “instant discipleship” –when everything cross and follow me cannot be
we want must happen now! my disciple. Suppose one of you
 The commercialized gospel being preached in many churches, wants to build a tower. Will he
not first sit down and estimate
and the media, encourages this wrong perspective.
the cost to see if he has enough
 The priorities of many Christiansare upside down, like the rich
money to complete it? For if he
young ruler (Luke 18:18-27).
lays the foundation and is not
 Peterson says there areChristians of two main orientations:
able to finish it, everyone who
a. The “tourists” – motivated by quest for pleasure, without sees it will ridicule him, saying,
any sense of commitment to the demands of discipleship ‘This fellow began to build and
b. The “disciples” and “pilgrims”- who are willing to follow was not able to finish’”
the Lord Jesus in a lifetime relationship of growing and (Luke 14:25-30ff; Cf. Luke
learning from him, and whose eyes are set on eternity, not 18:18-30)
the temporary things that the world has to offer.
2.6. THE MEANING OF THE COST OF DISCIPLESHIP

In John Piper’s words, “Salvation costs you nothing, but discipleship will cost you everything. Salvation occurs
in a moment, but discipleship takes a lifetime. Jesus asks whether or not you truly want to live a life of
discipleship...Everything that matters is hard. Everything that matters is costly!”
2.6.1. In Biblical Discipleship, Christ is Lord of All or He is not Lord at All!

 The cost of discipleship entails the call to follow Christ in a relationship of total surrender, obedience
and trust.
 At the heart of it all is the demand to make Jesus the Lord of everything in our lives.
 This absolute commitment is symbolized by the act of carrying the cross- and following Christ.
 Jesus is not only the saviour, but also the Lord; He requires the place of priority in the hearts and
minds, and the entirety of life of those who would be His disciples.

In light of Jesus’ teaching in Luke 14:25-30,the Lordship of Christ is to be demonstrated in the disciple’s
willingness to change priorities of their lives in four aspects:
a. Putting the Master above those nearest and dearest to them

 Did Jesus mean it is impossible to love our family and him at the same time?The Scriptures speak
plainly about our relational obligations to others- families, husbands, wives, children and the
brethren in the body of Christ.
 Jesus meant that the disciple’s love for Him must have precedence over any other; his/ her
attachment to Christ must be greater than any other relationship!
 Such love and loyalty to Jesus is incompatible with the love of the world (1 John 2:15-17), and will
certainly come with a cost (Matt.10:24-25; Cf. John 15:18-19).
b. Value following Jesus Christ above life itself

 This is perhaps the highest level of commitment for a Christian!
 The demand to value Christ above self goes against our basic, natural instinct of self-preservation
and personal ambition.
 Discipleship demands a devotion to the Lord Jesus that surpasses the instinct to preserve our own
life, and this was demonstrated by Jesus, and the example of the disciples in the early church:
Jesus’ outpouring of his life as a ransom-See Mark 10:42-45; Phil.2:5-8.
Jesus’ requirement for Peter’s absolute devotion- See John 21:15-19
Joyfully accepting to suffer disgrace for the Name of Jesus- See Acts 5:41-42
The insignificance of life and personal fulfilment in comparison to knowing Christ, gaining
him and becoming like Him- See Phil.3:7-11
c. Placing personal commitment to Christ above material possessions

 In our materialistic and consumerist culture, the call to esteem Christ over all the fine things of this
life can be very disturbing!
 Does the Bible (Christ)really teach that one can only become a Christian when they dispose of their
material assets?
 There is evidence that people of means were among Christ’s disciples, including Women who
supported his ministry, Joseph of Arimathea, disciples in the early church, e.g. Barnabas, Lydia and
other converts to Christianity.
 Simply put, Christ’s disciples must love Him more than they love money and what it can buy. The
story of the rich young ruler illustrates this requirement of discipleship. It is impossible to inherit
eternal life if one’s heart is captured by material possessions.
 Paul points out the Christian alternative as “godliness with contentment”, and cautions against the
temptation and trap of the “love of money”, for “Some people, eager for money, have wandered
away from the faith and pierced themselves with many griefs” (1 Tim.6:6-10).
d. Dying daily to self-interest

 Even as our Lord spoke of His destiny leading Him to a cross, so also every true disciple must bear a
cross (Luke 14:27; cf. 1 Cor.15:31)
 The disciple’s cross, unlike the one Jesus bore (once for all) must be taken up daily, and this is the
meaning of self-denial in the discipline of putting to death the selfish desires and ambitions of the old
self (see Luke 9:23; Rom.6:1-14 etc.).

 Jesus walked the “way of the cross”, and we as his disciples must walk in his steps (see 1 Pet.2:21; cf.
Phil.2:5-8).
2.7. WHY CONSIDER THE COST? (LUKE 14:25-34)

a. The problem of the crowds- fanaticism v/s committed following
 As Jesus’ ministry grew, he also begun to grow in popularity, and was drawing large crowds (See
Luke 14:25; John 6:14-15, 22-24ff).
 Although Jesus is concerned about the multitudes (see his feeding miracles; his compassion for the
lost-Matt.9:35-37), he seeks personal commitment, not popular following; disciples, not fans.
 Discipleship is not to be a casual sensational following, but a thought-out commitment, even when
the going gets tough (see John 6:60-66).
b. The work of the Lord- will be done only by those who are willing.
 As Jesus revealed, he not only called his disciples to be with him, but also to send them out as his co-
workers (Mark 3:13-15; Matt.9:35-10:39)
 This commission came with a cost, e.g. rejection (Matt.10:11-16); persecution/ physical suffering
(Matt.10:17); sacrifice (Matt.10:37-39) etc.
 It is impossible for those unwilling to count the cost, and be willing to pay it to become co-workers
with Christ.
 This was the pattern and example Jesus left us as his disciples, to follow in his steps; we are to expect
it (Matt.10:24-25; cf.1 Pet.2:21).
 Similarly, our work of making disciples (in line with the Great Commission) will only be done by those
who are willing to consider the cost-e.g. inconvenience; personal sacrifice etc.
c. The reality of Stumbling Blocks

The Scriptures have revealed various kinds and sources of influence that distract, derail or totally destroy
the commitment of believers to their walk with the Lord Jesus. These can be described as “stumbling
blocks”, in light of what Jesus perceived as hindrances to his commitment to walk the way of the cross
(see Matt.16:21-26).
 Love of money and the things it can buy (Matt.6:19-20,24; 1 Tim.6:6-10; Mk.3:18)
 Personal/ self-centred ambition (Mk.8:36; cf.10:41-45; Phil. 2:3-8)
 Fear and lack of confidence (2 Tim.1:6-10; 4:16-18; cf.Rev.2:10)
 Love of worldly pleasures & comforts (1 John 2:15-17; 2 Tim.4:9)
 Double-mindedness- (Luke 9:62; 14:15-20; John 6:61-71)
 Lack of perseverance/ endurance- (Heb.10:23,32-39; 2 Tim.2:2ff; Cf. Jas 1:2-8)
2.8. LOOKING BEYOND THE COST

a. God’s present providential care and sustenance (Mark 10:29-31; Cf. Luke 18:29-30; Matt.6:28-34).
b. Gaining Christ(Phil.3:7-11; Cf. Eph.3:14ff)
c. Deeper life in the spirit- Mark 4:34; John 5:15
d. Impact of life through service in the kingdom of God(Matt.5:11-16; cf. 2Tim.2:19-26; 2 Cor.2:14-17; 1 Pet.2:11-
12).
e. Eternal life (Mark 10:30; Cf. Rev.2:10)
2.9. SUMMARY OF KEY POINTS

1. By the time of Jesus’ ministry, discipleship was already a widely accepted idea in
Palestine. There were at least 3 discipleship traditions in existence;
 The Pharisaic tradition
 The Mosaic tradition
 John the Baptist’s tradition
2. Christian discipleship can be conceptualized as being both a process and a practice; it
is a transformational journey every Christian has to take, and an art through which a
mature believer “disciples” another one.
3. Christian discipleship is intentional and individualized; it is about being with Jesus,
and being sent by him; it is focused on transformation; it is an invitation for all
regardless of their diversities. As a practice, discipleship must be contextually
relevant for desired effectiveness.
4. The goals of discipleship are the outcomes of the transformed life, which touches all
the areas of life, and extends from the individual to the community of God’s people in
the body of Christ.
5. There are two kinds of orientations that can describe Christians in regard to their
preparedness to pay the cost of discipleship:
Tourists- motivated by the quest for pleasure without commitment
Pilgrims- drawn to following the Lord in a lifetime relationship
6. The cost of discipleship is centred on willingly surrendering to the Lordship of Christ,
making Him Lord of all in our lives.
7. Paying the cost of discipleship entails changing our priorities in four core aspects:
Putting the Master over those nearest and dearest to us
Valuing following Christ above life itself
Placing personal commitment to Christ above material possessions
Dying daily to self-interest
CHAPTER THREE: FOCUS DISCIPLESHIP STRATEGY

3.1. Overview of the FOCUS Discipleship Strategy
The FOCUS discipleship model envisages wholesome nurture of Christian Students into authentic disciples,
living effectively as Christians in and out of campus. We seek to raise life-long witnesses of Jesus Christ
bringing godly impact in the church and society. The Strategy focuses on the journey of students with Christ
through the campus from the first day they join the Christian Union in first year to their last day on campus
when they finally graduate. The strategy encompasses all the programs, activities and events that take place
at individual, small group and large group level to facilitate the growth of the students in all aspects of their
lives.
For this course, FOCUS engages issues of spiritual formation and leadership development, academic
excellence, godly relationships, career and calling, life skills and engaging contemporary issues facing young
people in universities and colleges as highlighted in the previous chapter. The goal is to equip students to
have Christ as Lord of all aspects of their lives by learning from Him and becoming like Him through their
journey in campus and beyond in order to be used by Him to fulfil His mission on earth.
This discipleship strategy is dubbed, The Growing Disciple – Growing in Christ through the Campus,
anchored on 1 Peter 2:4-5
“As you come to him, the living Stone—rejected by humans but chosen by God and precious to Him
— you also, like living stones, are being built into a spiritual house to be a holy priesthood, offering
spiritual sacrifices acceptable to God through Jesus Christ .”
The Discipleship Strategy involves four key stages

 Enrol – enlisting New believers and First Year Students into CU membership
 Establish – Nurturing growth into spiritual maturity
 Equip – Training in Ministry Skills
 Empower – Building Capacity for Leadership and Life-Long Mission engagement
3.2. FOCUS Discipleship Programs

At each level of the Discipleship Strategy highlighted above, there are various discipleship programs as listed
below:
a. Enlisting in Christian Union Membership and Discipleship Program

John 1:40-42. Andrew, Simon Peter’s brother, was one of the two who heard what John had said and who had
followed Jesus. The first thing Andrew did was to find his brother Simon and tell him, “We have found the
Messiah” (that is, the Christ). And he brought Him to Jesus.
1 Peter 2:3. Therefore, rid yourselves of all malice and all deceit, hypocrisy, envy, and slander of every kind. Like
newborn babies, crave pure spiritual milk, so that by it you may grow up in your salvation, now that you have
tasted that the Lord is good.
Discipleship programs at this level form the entry level to the FOCUS Discipleship Strategy. The programs are
very foundational in nature and focus on basic teachings and disciplines of the Christian faith and orientation
and integration into the Christian Union. The programs are therefore designed for beginners.
The two main programs at this level are:

i. First Year Orientation, Training and Integration into the CU – Anza FyT Program

ii. Nurture of New Believers and their Assimilation into the CU – Faith Foundations Program
b. Establishing in Christian Discipleship

Colossians 2:6 -7. So then, just as you received Christ Jesus as Lord, continue to live your lives in
him, rooted and built up in him, strengthened in the faith as you were taught, and overflowing with
thankfulness.
1 Peter 2:4-5. As you come to him, the living Stone—rejected by humans but chosen by God and precious to him
— you also, like living stones, are being built into a spiritual house to be a holy priesthood, offering spiritual
sacrifices acceptable to God through Jesus Christ.
The programs at this level focus on grounding believers in the faith and helping them grow up to maturity.
The aim is to nurture growth in all areas of life. The programs here include:
i. Personal Devotions
ii. Small Group Bible Study
iii. Prayer
iv. Brothers and Sisters Fellowship
v. The CU Fellowships
c. Equipping for Effective Ministry

Ephesians 4:11-12. It was He who gave some to be apostles, some to be evangelists, and some to be pastors and
teachers, to prepare God’s people for works of service, so that the body of Christ may be built up, until we all
reach unity in the faith and in the knowledge of the son of God and become mature, attaining to the whole
measure of the fullness of Christ.
The programs at this level are geared towards the process of equipping committed Disciples with knowledge
and skills to effectively serve as Workers in God’s household. This is in view of FOCUS’ vision of raising and
equipping students and graduates, and mobilizing them for active ministry and service in the Christian Union
and the local church in line with the biblical principle of “the priesthood of believers ”.
The key programs here are:
i. Bible Exposition Self Training Program (BEST-P)
ii. Ezra 7:10 program
iii. The CU School of Ministry
d. Empowerment for Leadership and Life-Long Mission Engagement

2 Timothy 2:2. And the things you have heard me say in the presence of many witnesses entrust to reliable
people who will also be qualified to teach others.
The aim of discipling people is to see them grow and make progress from their initiation to life in Christ as
new believers up to the time they become trained and empowered leaders, people who are able to take
responsibility and replicate the whole process of disciple-making. At this stage, we seek to develop disciples
with a clear sense of calling and purpose and who are able to help others through the process of discipleship
in the Christian Union, church and society and thus become agents of godly transformation wherever they
are.
The programs here include:
i. Leadership Training
ii. Mentorship

iii. Finalists Transition Program – Vuka-FiT
3.3. Important Note

Though these levels of the discipleship strategy appear like as a series of stages, with one following the
other, it should be noted that apart from the entry level, most of the programs in other stages run
concurrently. A CU member can be learning how to study the Bible in BEST P and at the same time,
developing the discipline of Bible Study, yet still serving as a Bible Study Leader.
This is because the model of training in CU leadership is the apprenticeship model where people learn on the
job and grow in the process.
Its however essential that the students go through the entry level programs first before signing up to
participate in other programs and taking active leadership roles.
3.4. Pictorial Representation of FOCUS Discipleship Strategy.
Leadership and Life-Long

Leadership Formation
Mission Engagement
Building Capacity for

(2 Timothy 2:1-2)
Mentorship
Empower
Vuka FiT
Enlisting into CU membership
Christian
Nurture of New Believers
(Ephessians 4:11-12)
Training in Life and

School of Ministry
Ezra Conferences
Students &
Ministry Skills
New Graduates
BEST-P
Equip
(1 Thess
2:7-12)
Believer impacting
Enrol
Church and
Society
Maturity (Colossian 2:6-7, 1
Small Group Bible Study
Nurturing into Spiritual

Brothers and Sisters
First
Personal Devotions
Year
Fellowships
Peter 2:4-5)
Fellowships
Establish
Prayer
CHAPTER FOUR: ENROL – ENLISTING IN THE CHRISTIAN UNION MEMBERSHIP AND DISCIPLESHIP

KEY SCRIPTURE PASSAGES
John 1:40-42.
Andrew, Simon Peter’s brother, was one of the two who
heard what John had said and who had followed Jesus. The
first thing Andrew did was to find his brother Simon and tell
him, “We have found the Messiah” (that is, the Christ). And
he brought Him to Jesus.
1 Thessalonians 2:7-12
…Just as a nursing mother cares for her children, so we cared
for you. Because we loved you so much, we were delighted to
share with you not only the gospel of God but our lives as
well. Surely you remember, brothers and sisters, our toil and
hardship; we worked night and day in order not to be a
burden to anyone while we preached the gospel of God to
you. You are witnesses, and so is God, of how holy, righteous
and blameless we were among you who believed. For you
know that we dealt with each of you as a father deals with his
own children, encouraging, comforting and urging you to live
lives worthy of God, who calls you into his kingdom and glory.
4.1. Introduction
Enrol is the entry point to the discipleship process for students in the Christian Union. Here, therefore, is
where the foundation for the rest of the discipleship programs in the Christian Union is laid.
At this level in the discipleship strategy, we week to achieve the following:
1. To induct and incorporate First Year students and New Believers to the community life of the
Christian Union.
2. To introduce and nurture Spiritual Disciplines among New believers and First year students for
sustained growth to maturity.
3. To teach basic foundational doctrines of the Christian faith.
The two main programs at this stage as earlier indicated are:

1. First Year Orientation, Training and Integration in the Christian Union
2. The Nurture of New Believers
4.2 THE FIRST YEAR TRANSITION (FYT) PROGRAM - “Anza FYT”

4.2.1 Introduction
The Anza FYT Program consists of three main activities:
 First Year Orientation
 First Year Training
 First Year Integration into the Christian Union.

First years constitute a very strategic group in the Christian union, both for numerical growth of the CU
membership as well as leadership development for the future of the Christian Union. The guidelines
provided here seek to help and build capacity of our CUs to effectively plan and facilitate the orientation and
training of First Years and their integration into the Christian Union.
The areas covered under this program guidelines are:
1. The need for First Years orientation, training & integration
2. Objectives of First Years orientation, training & integration
3. General Content of the First Years Orientation and Training
4. Strategy for integration of First Years into the Christian Union
5. Guidelines for training & induction of First Years’ Orientation Committee
6. Guidelines for training & induction of First Years’ Class Fellowship Leaders
4.2.2 The Need

There are several factors that justify the need for the FYT Programme in the CU:
1. The First Years are a strategic group- given the potential for the growth of the CU and enriching the
ministry (through their gifts), and nurture of future leadership. We therefore should:
 Evangelize - reach out and give First Years opportunity to hear the gospel and give their lives to
Christ at a phase/ period of life when they are still easily open to Christian influence.
 Recruit - Create awareness about the CU and enrol born again first fears for the growth of the
Christian Union
 Utilize the great ministry potential in first years –we need to tap into this resource and direct
their ministry gifting in ways that enhance the ministry of the CU.
2. The First Years are a vulnerable group- given their lack of acquaintance with a new and challenging
environment of the University, and the need to help them settle smoothly and live victoriously as
Christian students. We therefore should:
 Provide information-There is a gap between personal expectations and ambitions and the
challenging realities of campus life and first years need information to appreciate these realities.
 Sensitize and protect -The campus community is infiltrated by many other religious/ ministry
groups, especially cults, splinter groups and ministries with questionable doctrine. There is,
therefore, need for sensitization and protection from the harmful groups.

 Give guidance -Need to address the challenge of transition for freshmen who join campus born
again but the new environment with lots of freedom and liberalism poses a threat to their stand
in salvation. We need to guide them to make the right decisions.
3. The CU has a pastoral responsibility- to provide spiritual nurture, support and guidance for the students.
In an environment where there are many competing voices vying for their minds and souls; the CU
stands as the best placed community to take care of their spiritual needs. There is therefore need for:
 Spiritual nurture - structured discipleship framework for first years. Many may not have had
much of this after high-school, thus the need for grounding and affirming their faith, especially
for those who got born again while finishing high school or the time between high school and
campus/college as well as those who get saved during orientation.
 Training: In light of the struggles of settling and succeeding in campus, there is need to provide
holistic preparation for student life: academic diligence, time management, financial
management, etc.
4.2.3 Objectives
The FYT program therefore seeks to facilitate the First Years for smooth transition into campus and give
them holistic preparation for effective student life.
The Specific Objectives of the FYT program are:
1. To create awareness and sensitize first years about the place of the CU in the life of a student in order to
enable the first year identify the CU as a Christian fellowship of choice, a place to belong, and thus
become committed CU members
2. To create a strategic platform for evangelism to non-born again first years and give them an opportunity
to respond to the gospel within the first few days of their life on Campus
3. Train and equip first years to identify, understand and appreciate the dynamics of student life and live an
effective student life.
4. Bring together the first years into a healthy, growing class fellowship for peer mentorship, support and
accountability among first years within the wider family of Christian Union.
5. To enlist the first years in the comprehensive CU discipleship program and challenge them to make a
commitment to continuous spiritual growth at a personal, small group and CU fellowship level.
4.2.4 The FYT Program Content

4.2.4.1 Overview of Anza FYT Content
The table below shows the content for the Anza FYT Program based on each of the objectives
highlighted above. A comprehensive curriculum for various areas to be covered is provided later in
these guidelines.

Table 1: Anza FYT Programme Content
Core Need/ Main Objectives How to achieve this (Strategies, Activities and resources)
1 Awareness and sensitization about  Develop publicity materials with information of the CU and the
the place of the CU in the life of the University/College Campus – printed and online
student and nurture commitment  Organize Fellowships, Retreats and other creative for sharing
to CU membership details about the CU.
 One-on-One interactions with first years – Visits in their hostels,
linkages on social media, Ushering during Registration process
etc.
 Develop The First Years’ Handbook with details of the CU and
institution as well as the content for their training.
2 Evangelism to non-born again first  Develop/Source Evangelistic Tracts, Booklets, DVDs distributed
years during first years’ orientation
 Organize Evangelistic activities in first CU orientation program
e.g. Coffee Houses, door to door Evangelism, Proxy Stations
on campus during Orientation week etc.
 First Years’ Retreat and various such activities that
accommodate both believers and non-believers.
 Evangelistic activities in various hostels/places of residence for
non-resident students.
 Sunday services with evangelistic emphasis
3 Train and equip First Years’ to  Training of the Orientation Team to run effective orientation
effectively engage the new life in programs
campus  Teaching/ training programme with topics and activities
covering various issues specified in the FYT Training
Curriculum.
 Pastoral support to the First years by FOCUS Staff, CU
Patrons and CU Leaders through direct involvement in their
fellowship/ programme
 Testimonies by Senior Students/ Alumni about their life
experience as examples to learn from.
 Training on basics of Christian Discipleship as the foundation
for fruitful life as a student.
4 Fellowship, Mutual Support and  Establish a vibrant First Years Class Fellowship
Accountability, and Peer  Organize First Years’ Retreats
Mentorship  Create accountability groups among the First Years for
mutual support and accountability.
5 Enrolment into the Comprehensive  Design and facilitate an elaborate CU membership
CU Discipleship Strategy and registration for First Years.
integration into the community life  Special Functions for First Years in the Main CU Program
of the CU  Organize a CU Ministry Fair to create awareness of various
opportunities for involvement
 Publicity of various Discipleship Programs in the CU
4.2.4.2 Preparation for First Years’ Orientation

Before the First Years are admitted or begin to settle in Campus, it is important that the leadership
proactively prepares for the important task of first years’ orientation. They need to engage a comprehensive,
well-thought-out programme that ensures that the new students are not only given the right reception into
campus, but also that they become integral members of the CU family and are helped to lay a strong
foundation for their student life as Christians.
The following are some of the activities and initiatives that a CU should consider engaging.
a. Prayer: CU to intentionally pray for the incoming First Years in the CU main meetings
b. Committee:
 Appoint a First Years Orientation & Integration Committee (with allocated roles).
 Conduct training and induction for the Committee (see attached training guidelines)
c. Program: Come up with a Semester-long programme for First years (see proposed content & activities)
d. Budget: Budgeting & fundraising for the first years orientation
e. Publicity Materials: Develop CU awareness brochures/ pamphlets- for distributing to First years during
the Orientation week/ period. The Pamphlets should contain a section on FOCUS Awareness. Produce
enough copies of First Years Handbook (Anza FYT Manual).
f. Permission from College/University Administration:
 Engaging with the Administration to make arrangements for incorporation of CU stand/ tent/ desk
at the registration square.
 The First Year’s orientation team can also strategically volunteer to assist the University officials on
the Registration day (where appropriate).
g. Mobilization and Training of CU members to participate in orientation
 Sensitization of CU members to be prepared for the Orientation
 Identify and train a team of mentors from available ex-CU leaders and other mature believers to help
in orientation and walk with first years at one-on-one or small group level as they report and settle
down.
h. Develop and activate an online First Year Recruitment and Orientation Platform
 To create contact with first years before they report.
 To reach out to those who register online and enrol for online programs.
 This could also include an active hotline and email address through which they can make inquiries
and seek guidance.
4.2.4.3 The First Week of Orientation

1. Understanding First Years
The first two weeks after the arrival of the freshmen is critical for their smooth settling in campus, and on-
going transition into student life. With their vulnerability as a new group on campus, their curiosity and need
for friendship and support, the first years have a number of important needs or concerns that the CU
orientation teams should understand and try to address through the orientation programme. These are as
follows:
a. Emotionally and mentally stretching transition experience for those who report on campus
o Detachment from the comfort zone of their families and familiar backgrounds
o The rigors of registering and trying to settle into a normal life in a new environment.
b. Settling and survival in the new environment
o Understand the nature of life on campus, the opportunities, challenges to overcome and pitfalls
to avoid.

o Learning/ exploring the culture of the campus- forming new norms and patterns of living, and
how to adjust into the student life.
o The challenge of finding housing with limited space available within campus hostels
c. Looking for friendship and support
o Creating new friendships
o Finding a sense of identity and belonging in a “safe community” now that everyone is new
d. Confirming/ changing course of study-
o Many first years will still be undertaking inter-faculty/ course changes way into the end of the
first semester, and choices made at this time will often have long-term career implications for the
new students. This can be a daunting experience for some, particularly for those who have to
accept to study courses they don’t like or couldn’t change!
These are some of the concerns and issues that most first years will be grappling with as they settle into the
campus, especially within the first two weeks of their arrival. This understanding is critical for our
engagement with the new students, so that we can be proactive, strategic, discerning and effective in our
strategies of orientation.
2. Receiving First Years
Perhaps the most important task of the Orientation Team is inthe first week of arrival of the first years -
“reception and ushering” of the new students into university. This includes both the physical process on the
college or the university campus or the virtual interactions on the online platforms.
CUs should develop creative models of doing this that ensure the following key aspects are captured
adequately
a. Publicity to create awareness and mobilization for involvement in the CU programs and ministries.
b. Registration of First Years interested in the Christian Union.
c. Creative, friendly and relevant activities that responds to the needs of the First Years at their
convenience.
d. Active involvement of First Years in the program to create ownership and sense of belonging.
e. Intentional evangelistic initiative to reach the non-Christian first years
f. Mentorship by the mature members at one-on-one and/or small group level through Bible study and
various ministry groups where one can identify a first year and walk with them for at least their first year/
semester in campus.
Sample Week 1 Program (Assuming some students are resident while others are non-resident)
DAY STRATEGIES AND ACTIVITIES RESOURCES REQUIRED
Monday  Running a well-designed publicity and Registration Desk  Publicity materials
 Running an active First Year Orientation Online Platform  Anza FYT Manuals
 Participating in ushering of the New Students  CU orientation Program
 Evening Plenary and Small groups - Coffee House in the  Coffee and Snacks
evening (around the hostels or near the dining hall)  PA and Music System with well-set
o entertainment tent or room.
o First years introduce themselves to each other  Projector
o Your questions Answered  Personnel: FOCUS Staff, CU Leaders
o A brief evangelistic sermon – Thus far the Lord and few continuing students.
o Share the CU Orientation program
Tuesday  Continue to run a well-designed publicity and Registration  Publicity materials
Desk  Evangelistic Tracts
 Continue to run an active First Year Orientation Online  Anza FYT Manuals

Platform  CU orientation Program
 Participating in ushering of the New Students  Coffee and Snacks
 Door to door visits to first years in their rooms at their  PA and Music System with well-set
various places of residence, within and without the tent or room.
campus  Personnel: Personnel (FOCUS staff,
 Coffee House in the evening (around the hostels or near guest speakers, CU mentors, ex-CU
the dining hall) leaders, CU alumni)
o entertainment  Projector
o Handle FAQ’s
o Introduce CU leaders
o Share the CU Orientation Program
 Evening Plenary and Small groups: The Campus, The CU
and You
Wednesday  Running an active First Year Orientation Online Platform

 Participating in ushering of the New Students  Publicity materials
 Door to door visits to first years in their rooms at their  Anza FYT Manuals
various places of residence, within and without the  CU orientation Program
campus  Coffee and Snacks
 Evening Plenary: Coffee House in the evening (around the  PA and Music System with well-set
hostels or near the dining hall) tent or room.
o entertainment  Personnel: Personnel (FOCUS staff,
o First years introduce themselves to each other guest speakers, CU mentors, ex-CU
o Handle FAQ’s leaders, CU alumni)
o Introduce CU leaders  Projector
o Share the CU Orientation Program
 Brief Presentation: Introducing the SEAS of life
Thursday  Follow-up Door to door visits to first years in their rooms  The Anza FYT Manuals
at their various places of residence, within and without the  Evangelistic Tracts
campus.  Brochures
 Running an active First Year Orientation Online Platform  Projector
 Evening Plenary - Movie and discussions with Reflections  PA and Music System with well-set
and discussions on issues from the movie that relate to tent or room.
student life  Big Screen Movie equipment if
available will be great.
Friday  Follow-up Door to door visits to first years in their rooms  The Anza FYT Manuals
at their various places of residence, within and without the  Evangelistic Tracts
campus.  Brochures
 Running an active First Year Orientation Online Platform  Projector
 Creative Night: talents night, introduction of ministries  PA and Music System with well-set
 First years to showcase their talents tent or room.
 Creative ministries demonstrate what different  A change of venue to a more theatre
ministries do, entertain using skits like a fresher’s first like room will be of great value.
week…wrong class, weird roommate etc.
Saturday  Social retreat (all mentors should attend)  Appropriate retreat venue
 Fun, bonding, teambuilding games  Means of transport preferably free
 ‘Meet your mentor’ – where first interact freely with for First Years
continuing students and Associates who are to serve  Various equipment for team building
as mentors games and field games.
Sunday  Sunday service, introduction of the First Years,  PA and Music Equipment
 Brief introduction for every First Year to the CU  Brochures
 Bible Study coordinator to organize for the BS leaders  Anza FYT Manual
to meet their respective group members  A carefully chosen, well informed
 Sermon: Living for God in Campus speaker
4.2.4.4 The Anza FYT Training Curriculum

The table below shows the training content for the Anza FYT Program based on five (5) key themes
namely:
1. Understanding campus life
2. Understanding the Christian Union
3. Cultivating Basic Spiritual Disciplines
4. The SEAS of Student life – Spiritual, Economic, Academic and Social
5. The making of a leader
Table 2: Anza FYT Program Curriculum

Thematic Topics /Activity Content
Category
1 Campus Welcome and Welcome Note
Life Introduction to Anza Purpose of Anza FYT Program
FYT Program Overview of Anza FYT Program Content
Your Rights and Introduction to the Campus
Responsibilities as a Appreciating the privileges of being a university/College student
student leading to an attitude of thanksgiving.
Exploring the rights and responsibilities of being a university or
college student.
Making the most of the opportunity to be a student on campus
Understanding -How to manage the newly found freedom in campus

Campus Life and -Debunking the myths of life in campus and giving the facts
Students Culture -Understanding student culture and exploring ways of
remaining faithful in such a context.
Understanding and -Being part of professional associations on campus
participating in -Being an active voter in campus elections
Student Politics -Dynamics of participating in student politics at all levels
Challenges Students -Food and accommodation
face and how to - Security
engage them -Peer pressure
-Drugs and substance abuse
-Sexual immorality
2 The The identity and -Defining the purpose of the Christian Union on campus
Christian purpose of the CU -The role the CU plays in the campus community and in the life
Union of its members.
-The distinctiveness of the Christian Union
Benefits and -What do individual members benefit from as members of the
responsibilities of CU Christian Union?
membership -What are the responsibilities that the individual members
ought to have to remain active and bona fide members of the
CU?
The CU Doctrinal -Brief Exposition of the statements in the CU Doctrinal Basis
basis
The CU and FOCUS - Basic FOCUS awareness
-How does the individual student and CU relate to FOCUS
-Benefits of being part of the FOCUS family

3 Cultivating Personal Devotions – -Importance of personal devotions
Basic Daily Focus -Cultivating the discipline of personal devotion
Spiritual -Introduction to the FOCUS Devotional Guide
Disciplines
Cultivating a Lifestyle -The place and importance of Prayer in a student’s life
of Prayer -Cultivating a lifestyle of prayer
-The opportunities for prayer in the CU
Commitment to - The place and importance of Fellowship in a student's life
Fellowship -Commitment to Fellowship
-The opportunities for Fellowship in the CU
Witnessing: -The place and importance of witnessing in a student's life
Evangelism on -Concept of evangelism on campus
Campus -The opportunities and strategies for Evangelism on campus
4 The SEAS of Spiritual Growth - What does Spiritual growth entail?
Student -How do we nurture spiritual growth?
Life -What opportunities does the CU provide for spiritual growth?
Economics: Money Basics of Financial management
Matters  Budgeting
 Giving
 Saving
 Entrepreneurship and Investment
Academic Excellence -Importance of diligence in academics,
-The discipline of reading widely
-Exploring strategies for excellence and discovering your study
style that produces the best in you.
Social Life: cultivating -How does one make friends, how does one choose friends?
Healthy Relationships -What are some of the challenges resulting from mismanaged
relationships?
-Where can students go for help in matters of relationships?
5 Becoming The making of a -Are leaders born or made?
Leaders Leader -Developing leadership skills through learning to be a problem
solver, serving others and being ready to pay the price.
-Opportunities available on campus and in the CU to develop
leadership skills
Leadership Issues on -Issues in the CU and on campus calling out for leaders
campus and in the CU
Mentorship -The concept of mentorship from Biblical perspective
-The role of associates and senior students in mentorship of
students on campus
Biblical Stewardship -What have we been entrusted with as students on campus
-How do we ensure that we faithfully manage what God has
given us and pass on the mantle to others well?
Table 2: Sample Anza FYT Program Design

SEMESTER I: A REFRESHING START

Week Activities and Topics Objectives
1&2 Orientation Week Receive and introduce students to CU and Campus
Talk about overview of SEAS of Student Life
3&4 Campus Life I: Introduction to Campus Life Build capacity to engage new life in campus
5 &6 The CU I: The Purpose, Uniqueness and Recruit and nurture commitment to CU membership
Benefits of membership
7&8 Spiritual Disciplines I: Personal Devotions, Inculcate the discipline of personal devotions as foundation
Prayer and Fellowship for spiritual growth
9&10 SEAS I: Developing Healthy Relationships, Challenge students to uphold purity and make purity pledge
Academic Excellence
11&12 Leadership I: The Making of a Leader Challenge first years to develop leadership skills and take
strategic leadership roles in various groups on campus
SEMESTER II: EXPLORING THE CAMPUS LIFE
Week Activities Objectives
1&2 Retreat Engaging the SEAS of Life
3&4 The CU II: The CU Doctrinal Basis Exposition of the CU Doctrinal Basis
5 &6 Campus Life II: Student Rights, Responsibilities, Equip students to effectively participate in various student
Politics activities and create godly influence
7&8 Spiritual Disciplines II: Witnessing Build capacity for students to reach their fellows students
with the gospel
9&10 SEAS II: Spiritual Growth Enrol in the overall CU Discipleship program
11&12 Leadership II: Biblical Stewardship Help students see everything in the journey on campus as a
trust from God and so the need to be faithful, excellent and
accountable.
4.2.5 Integration of First Years into the Christian Union

Integration refers to the process of incorporating the First Years as equal members of the larger CU through
involving them in the various small groups, ministries and CU activities. The aim of the integration is to
deepen the sense of belonging and commitment of First Years as members of the CU while at the same time
ensuring they are well grounded before they are actively engaged in various CU programs.
4.2.5.1 Key assumptions about integration.
1. Integration of First Years does not happen automatically. It should be a well-planned and intentional
process.
2. The responsibility for integrating First Years rests with the CU, not the First Year.
3. The process of integration of the First Year begins before membership
4. Integration is an on-going process.
5. The First Years want to belong, be involved, to grow and to contribute to the community life of the
Christian Union.
6. Therefore, CUs should always work at improving their effectiveness in the process of integrating First
Years.
4.2.5.2 The process of integration involves five main stages:

1. First Year Orientation and Training
2. Involvement of First Years in various large group activities and small Bible study groups
3. Enrolment of First Years to CU membership

4. Enrolment of First Years to play active roles of servicein various ministries in the CU.
5. Recruitment of First Years in key leadership positions in the CU
In the ideal cases, the process should flow as represented in the diagram below.
Anza FYT Active Ministry Key CU

CU
Through Class Involvement Leadership
Membership
Fellowship Positions
Orientation
(Week Small Group Bible Study, CU
1&2) Worship and Prayer Meetings,
Various CU Activities
4.2.5.3 Characteristics of well integrated First Year – Anza FYT Desired Product
1. Solid Christian grounded in basic teachings and disciplines of Christian discipleship
2. An excellent Christian student serving God’s purposes in their academics and other student roles
3. Registered CU member with clear knowledge of the mission and objectives of the CU
4. Active member of class fellowship and having multiple friends within the Christian Union
5. Active member of one of the CU small Bible study groups
6. Active and regular in CU large group activities especially the weekly worship and prayer meetings
7. Active in a ministry, serving God and others according to their area of calling and gifting
8. Ready and open to serving in various leadership roles when called upon
9. Giving financially to the Christian Union
10. Faithful witness sharing the gospel to other students on campus
4.2.6 Training & induction of First Years Orientation Team

4.2.6.1 Formation of the Committee
1. The First Years Orientation Committee should be formed atleast Two (2) Months to the reporting
date for the First Years.
2. The Committee should comprise of representatives from various Ministries and atleast the Executive
Committee members in charge of Evangelism and Discipleship. The specific compositions of these
Committees shall vary from Cu to CU.
4.2.6.2 The Orientation Team

1. The First Years Orientation Team should be constituted with as many continuing students as
possible, mature in the faith and able to serve as mentors to the first years.
2. The team members shall be trained to effectively understand the orientation process and walk with
the First Year through the Anza FYT Program.
4.2.6.3 The Training Content

The table below shows the key areas of training for the orientation Committee.
Training Content for the Orientation Team
Activities and Topics Objectives
Devotional: Called to be Disciple-makers To explore the Biblical basis for First Year Orientation
Overview of the FYT program To Create awareness and understanding of the goals and
content of Anza FYT program
The Role of the Orientation Team To equip the orientation team with knowledge and skills
needed for First Years Orientation and how to use them.
Understanding the First Years’ World To help the orientation team understand the First Year so as
to effectively meet their needs.
The Art of Disciple-making and Spiritual mentoring To equip the orientation team with knowledge and skills
needed for Discipling and mentoring First Years
The Anza FYT Manual To do a quick study through the Anza FYT Manual and train
the Orientation Team walk with First years through it.
4.2.7 Training & induction of First Years Class Fellowship Leaders

4.2.7.1 Composition and Purpose of the First Years Class Fellowship Leadership Team
1. The First Years Class Fellowship Leadership Team should be formed atleast One (1) Months after the
reporting date for the First Years.
2. The team should comprise but not limited to the following:
a. The Chairperson
b. Secretary
c. Treasurer
d. Prayer coordinator
3. The CU leadership should constitute the leadership teams based on the uniqueness of the CU and
the campus.
4.2.7.2 The Training Content

The table below shows the key areas of training for the orientation Committee.
Devotional: Biblical Portraits of Leadership– To explore the Biblical model of Leadership
Shepherd-hood, servant-hood and
stewardship
Understanding the Christian Union To equip the leaders with knowledge and share wisdom on the
nature anduniqueness of the Christian and its implications.
Purpose of Class Fellowship in CU context To explore the purpose and objectives of class fellowships and how
they serve the discipleship and evangelism objectives of the CU.
The Role of Class Fellowship Leaders To clearly define the various job descriptions of the office bearers
and go over roles and responsibilities of leadership team.
Dynamics of Leadership in a CU Context To explore factors at play in the CU and what it takes to be effective
as a leader in the CU
The Anza FYT Manual To do a quick study through the Anza FYT Manual and train the
Orientation Team walk with First years through it.
4.2.8 Additional Operational guidelines

1. It is the onus of the CMF, STEM Staff and CU Executive Committee to help the members of the First
Years Orientation Committee understand the necessity of the First Years orientation and the objectives
of the programme during their training.
2. The Anza FYT orientation and training sessions should be engaging with a good balance between
instructional teachings and the interactive sessions. Various session facilitatorsshould be helped to
appreciate the entire program so that their session content complements and contributes to the
achievement of the bigger picture.
3. The facilitators of this program should be conscious of what is happening in the larger CU fellowship
and adjustments or adaptations made where need be. For instance, topics already captured in the CU
program do not have to be taught in the FYT Program.
4. For the non-resident students, the Orientation committee should seek to run a number of the
orientation programs at the hostels to make it convenient for the fresh students. They should
therefore ensure they have contact persons in all the major hostels for ease of follow up and
coordination. Partnerships with hostel owners should be sought to make it easier for the CUs to run
such programs.
5. The CU should establish the number of international students in their campus and see whether it
would be necessary to form a special team within the Orientation Committee to follow up on them and
reach out to them to meet their unique needs.
6. In approaching the administration for collaboration in Orientation, the CU should package their
request for partnership in a manner that clearly shows their value addition during that week. They
should be willing to offer solutions to various challenges and develop creative programs that are all
inclusive and not just geared towards reaching a small group of Christians only. Where possible and
without compromising on doctrine and values, the CU should be open to partner with other Christian
groups on campus such as the Catholic Community and the Seventh Day Adventists in some of the
orientation programs.
4.3 NURTURE OF NEW BELIEVERS – FAITH FOUNDATIONS PROGRAM

4.3.1 Introduction
We thank God that there are many new conversions in almost every Christian Union in Kenya due to the
student’s evangelistic efforts in the campuses. However, effective evangelism and making disciples means
more than getting conversions. "Teaching them to observe all that I have commanded you . . . " is the other
imperative. The new life of a disciple is a life of obedience to Jesus' commandments, or it is not a new life at
all. The primary goal of evangelism is to make disciples. The foundation of making disciples is proper nurture
of new believers.

FOCUS Staff and Christian Union leaders should therefore be keen to see a lasting impact of the evangelistic
initiatives by establishing an intentional process that will ensure every new believer receives the care and
instruction they need to grow into a mature disciple and life-long witness of our Lord Jesus Christ. This is the
heart of making disciples.
The Faith Foundations program is designed to provide guidelines and study materials for nurture of new
believers in the Christian Union. The key areas covered under this program include:
1. The need for nurture of new believers
2. Objectives of Faith Foundations Program
3. General Content of the Faith Foundations Program
4. Guidelines for training Disciple-makers in the Christian Union
4.3.2 The Need

Disciple-making is extremely essential for the Christian Union for a number of reasons:
1. It’s the Great Commission imperative: as recorded in Matt.28:18-20 and Acts 1:8, the Great Commission
has at its heart the challenge for the church to take the task of disciple-making seriously. Earlier on in his
ministry, Jesus had challenged his disciples to see the urgency of the task of making disciples, by using
powerful, unforgettable imagery that has come to be the catchphrase for missions’ mobilization. He told
them, “The harvest is plentiful but the workers are few. Ask the Lord of the harvest, therefore, to send
out workers into his harvest field” (Matt.9:37-38; cf. Luke 10:1-3; John 4:34-35ff). According to David
Watson, the call to “Go therefore and make disciples of all nations” was Christ’s “master plan for the
salvation of the world, brilliant in its simplicity but strangely ignored by much of the church in most
generations. His disciples were to make disciples who would make disciples, ad infinitum.” As implied in
Jesus’ words and expounded by Watson, there is an inseparable link between disciple-making and the
ultimate fulfilment of the Great Commission. Sadly as it was in the time of Jesus, both the urgency of the
work, and the inadequacy of the workers is a still a real challenge faced by the church in the
contemporary society. The need for disciple-making is therefore not questionable.
2. The need to Ground Believers in the Basics for sustainable growth: Like new born babies, new Christians
need the foundational Christian principles and knowledge that is essential for effective Christian growth.
3. The need to bridge the gap between those who are reported to have gotten saved and those who get
discipled in our CUs:This deficiency in proper grounding of these Christians has made many Christians,
despite confessing their faith in Christ, to fail in withstanding the pressures and temptations that come
along their way. As a result we have huge gaps between the number of people who get saved, and
those that eventually stand and are assimilated in the Christian Union.Follow-up of new believers is one
of the most important disciplines – and often the most overlooked. Evangelism and discipleship are like
two sides of the same coin. They are both necessary. The Bible calls a new believer a "babe" in Christ. As
a baby, new Christians need much attention and care during their formative years.
4.3.3 Goal and Objectives

The goal of the Faith Foundations program is to provide the Christian Union with a workable process that
will enable them to follow-up and establish new believers in the faith, then assimilate and incorporate them

into the life and ministry of the CU. We aim to have 100% of new believers in our Christian Unions followed-
up, cared for and assimilated.
4.3.4 The specific objectives of the Faith Foundations Program are:
1. To help new believers cultivate spiritual disciplines that facilitate their growth in the faith
2. To ground new believers in the basic doctrines of the Christian faith.
3. To assimilate new believers into the Christian union community
4.3.4 Program and Content

The basic needs of a New Believer are: assurance, acceptance, protection, fellowship, teaching and training
in the ways of God (Acts 2:42-47).To provide for these needs among others, Faith Foundations Program is a
ten lesson in-depth study designed to ground Believers in the foundation teachings and disciplines for
effective discipleship. The lessons are compiled together in the Faith Foundations Manual.
4.3.5 The Faith Foundations Manual Content

The ten (10) key areas covered in the Faith Foundations Manual are summarised in the table below.
The Faith Foundations Manual Content
Topic Objective Key Areas Covered
1. Understanding To understand and appreciate salvation  Nature and origin of sin
Salvation through Christ Jesus and its implications to  The consequences of sin
those who believe and are saved.  God’s remedy for sin
 The New life of salvation in Christ
 Assurance of Salvation
2. Growing in the To help believers grow in their understanding  Revelation of God to mankind
Knowledge of of who God is so us to deepen their personal  Introduction to the Holy Trinity
God relationship with Him.  Developing a personal relationship with
God
 Jesus Christ as Lord
3. Growing in the To help the believer grow in their faith through  The Bible is God’s Word
Word of God studying, practicing and teaching God’s Word  Importance of God’s Word in a believer’s
life
 Developing the discipline of scripture
engagement
4. Growing in To help the believer understand the importance  The meaning of prayer
prayer and significance of prayer in a believers life in  Components of prayer
order that they may cultivate a lifestyle of  Why we should pray
prayer  How and when to pray
 Listening to God in prayer
 Prayer and fasting
5. Growing in To help the believers understand the meaning  Definition of Fellowship
Fellowship and importance of fellowship in his/her life and  Benefits of Fellowship
therefore commit to become a committed  Barriers to effective fellowship
member of an existing Christian fellowship  Involvement in the local church and the
Christian Union
6. Growing in To help the Believers understand and embrace  Who is a witness?
Witnessing our given mandate to sharing the gospel  The need for witnessing
through word and actions as a mandate for the  Qualities of a good witness
Christian Union  Hindrances to effective witnessing
 Practical tips for evangelism on campus
7. The Holy Spirit To develop a biblical understanding of who the  The Person and attributes of the Holy
Holy Spirit is and what He does in a believers Spirit.

life in order to be open to His in our lives  The work of the Holy Spirit
 The Fruit of the Holy Spirit
8. Growing in To help Believers appreciate the reality of trials  Trials and Temptations
Victory and temptations so as to be equipped to  Overcoming temptations
overcome and live a victorious life  Facing all kinds of trials
9. Growing in To help believers understand how to manage  What is stewardship?
Stewardship all that God has entrusted to them as part of  Gifts and talents
Christian discipleship.  Money and material possessions
 Time management
 Handling relationships
10. Keep growing Appreciation for finishing the study and  Revising the aims of the study
invitation to keep growing  Remembering the key disciplines for
growth
 Applying God’s Word in our lives.
4.3.6 The Program Activities

The program involves three main activities:
1. Individualised follow-up of the New Believer at one-on-one level by a mature trained CU member
2. Teachings through a regular Spiritual Nurture (Faith Foundation) class.
3. Progressive assimilation of the New Believer in the community life of the Christian Union.
4.3.6.1 One on one Follow-up

1. Effective nurture of New Believers in the Christian Union should be individualized, intentional and
relational.
a. Individualised – Giving each person individual and personal attention, besides the various key
group activities is key in disciple-making. Meeting with each one on a one-on-one basis and
seeking to know and address the unique for that person is very essential. The Holy Spirit
uniquely works in each of the individuals meeting them the point of their need for
transformation.
b. Intentional – Three things are a must for productive disciples;

 Knowing what we want the new believers to know and understand the things of
God; the basic ingredients in a life of discipleship.
 Having a clear picture of what we want these disciples to become; bedrock elements
of Christian character that must be theirs and the kind of people they should be.
 Developing a vivid vision of what we want them to learn to do, with a workable plan
to help them accomplish it.
c. Relational
 Disciple-making is not just about imparting knowledge but caring enough to share
one’s life, no matter the cost because, like Timothy, taking a “genuine interest in
their welfare” (Phil 2:20, 1 Thess 2:7-12). When there is a committed loving and
friendly relationship, people are less apt to feel they are our “spiritual project” but
that we are interested in them as a person, not just our spiritual agenda. But on the
other hand, one must be careful not to be friends only without proper discipleship
hence the need to be intentional as earlier indicated.

 As J. MacArthur Jr. said “Being discipled toward godliness isn’t achieved in a ten-
week class; it is accomplished by spending time with a godly individual – walking with
them, feeling their heartbeat, hearing them speak, and seeing them pray.”
2. The process of one on one follow-up applies the principles of: incarnation, identification, selection,
concentration, communication (instruction), transparency, availability, practicability, appreciation and
stickability.4
a. Incarnation – the disciple-maker must build the bridge, cross the barrier and come to the
level of the trainee and make real contact with them, connecting at their level.
b. Identification – the disciple-maker must be actively and purposely involved in the life of the
new believer, sharing in their experiences in order to effectively guide them.
c. Selection – Just as Jesus chose the twelve, a disciple-maker must select few with whom they
will diligently offer individualised attention and be faithful to walk with them in the long haul.
d. Concentration–A disciple-maker should give maximum attention to the new believers, be
willing to invest time and resources, giving them priority with the seriousness and dedication
they deserve.
e. Instruction - A disciple-maker should be able to effectively communicate to the new believer
the teachings and instructions of God’s word in a simple and comprehensive way passing on
convictions, values, doctrine among others that will build the new believer.
f. Transparency - a good disciple-maker should be able to progressively open up his life the new
believer in so far as the opening up enriches the new believer’s growth process.
g. Availability- the disciple-makers should place themselves as much as possible at the disposal
of the new believers giving the confidence that whenever they seek them out, they will be
available to them as much as possible.
h. Practicability – As the old saying goes, “you cannot give what you don’t have”. Disciple-
makers should be able to model and demonstrate to the new believer the things they talk
about in real life. It is the simplest way for the new believers to learn and practice.
i. Appreciation–the disciple maker should regularly evaluate the growth of the new believer,
give feedback and affirm them as they walk together. They should correct and rebuke the
new believers in love appropriately and support them to rise from failures.
j. ‘Stickability’ – The disciple-maker should seek to stay with the new believers they are walking
with until the faith foundations program is over, and seek to follow through all details to
ensure they do not miss anything.
3. Raising Disciple Makers: The Disciple-makers are mature and trained CU members who give
themselves to walk with New Believers through the Faith Foundations program. Each CU should seek
to have at least one Disciple-maker for every New Believer. This means at least 20% of the CU
membership should be trained Disciple-makers. To achieve this, there is need for:
4
See PT ChandaPilla, 1998. The Master Trainer. OM Books. Chandapilla in this book discusses these principles as key in
leadership training. The ideas he shares can as well be applied in the process of making-disciples and specifically so in the
nurture of new believers.

a. Sensitization and Mobilization— make all CU members aware of the great need and moral
responsibility to follow-up new believers. Leaders and FOCUS Staff should inspire and
motivate members to see follow-up, not as an addition to evangelism, but a vital part of it.
b. Training—To effectively facilitate the one-on-one follow-up, the disciple-makers should be go
through a comprehensive training program that should include studying through the Faith
Foundations Manual first before walking with others through it. The table below shows the
key areas of training for the Disciple-Makers.
Training Content for Disciple-Makers
Exposition of the Great Commission To explore the Biblical mandate to make disciples
Biblical Discipleship To explore the concept and models of Discipleship from the
Scriptures
The art of Disciple-making I To discuss Principles of walking with new believers
The art of Disciple-making II To discuss practical issues in walking with the New believers in the
Unique context of the Christian Union.
Overview of the Faith Foundations Program To help the disciple-makers have the big picture of the entire
program
Understanding the World of New Believer To help the Disciple-makers understand the dynamics of the life of
the new believer in order to identify with them and reach them at
their level
The Faith Foundations Manual To do a quick study through the Faith Foundations Manual and train
the Disciple-makers walk with New Belivers through it.
This training cannot be effective when it’s engaged as an event. It should be engaged as a series of
trainings over a defined period of time. This can be a full semester of working through the manual
preceded by a weekend of training.
c. A Clear, Systematic Process —It should include the participation of many individuals from the
CU in an easily followed and understood system. This process should include both the
immediate follow-up of a new believer at the moment after conversion and an on-going
process of assimilation into life and ministry of the CU. The ultimate result is to place the new
believer onto a road of discipleship that will seek to develop him or her into a mature
follower of Christ and a reproducing witness.
4.3.6.2 Faith Foundations Class

Whereas the one-on-one discipleship seeks to help the new believer find personal care and develop spiritual
disciplines for growth, Faith Foundations class seeks to create a platform for peer accountability and mutual
support as well as opportunity for formal training and instruction.
The Faith Foundations Class shall be based on the content of the Faith Foundations Manual.

The class should be conducted regularly, preferably weekly so that the program is completed within a
semester or at most one year depending on the academic programs.
Whoever is charged with the coordination of the Faith Foundations class should develop a semester/ term or
annual program and contacts preferred facilitators of various sessions in advance for proper preparation.
4.3.6.3 Assimilation
The word “assimilate” means “to absorb groups of different cultures into the main cultural body.” 5 Even
though this word does not appear in the Scriptures, it accurately describes what happens when a newly-born
believer grows from being a non-member or mere CU fellowship attendee into a committed member of the
Christian Union. It is important to understand that assimilation is not an event, it is a process.
One can therefore say it’s the process of progressive transformation and enculturation of the New Believers
into the Christian lifestyle and their incorporation in the community life of the Christian Union.
The proposed assimilation process can be illustrated by the diagram bellow.
10 sessions of NBC running

Introduction to NBC by the person who NEXT STEP
in a cycle flexible for
evangelized to the NB or Disciple Maker
(after one week) members to join at any point
Conversion Entry to NBC Involvement in the CU

Ministries e.g. Praise and
worship (at the end of NBC)
Continuous assimilation process
facilitated by the Disciple Maker or
the person who evangelized to NB
As shown in the diagram,

1. Upon salvation, the person who led the New Believer to Christ, or the CU member who introduces
them to the New Believers ‘ Program will walk with the new believer for at least a week as he/she
gradually introduces them to the nurture class and trained disciple-maker.
2. Both the Class Teachings and one on one follow-up studies will be done following the Faith
Foundations Manual. The class will introduce the topics of study and disciplines to be developed and
one on one follow-up will provide support in the individual study and cultivation of various
disciplines.
3. As the New Believer goes through the Faith Foundations Class and is followed up one on one with
Disciple-makers, they will progressively be assimilated in various CU programs including but not
limited to Small Group Bible Study, CU Fellowships and prayer meetings and CU campus evangelism
and mission initiatives.
5
David A. Huston. Assimilating and Transforming New Believers. A paper presented to lay out the elements necessary in any
plan for assimilating new believers into a local assembly and transforming them into committed disciples of
Jesus.<http://www.gloriouschurch.com/html/Assimilation-And-Transformation.asp>

4. New believers shall only be allowed to participate actively in various Ministries in the CU after going
through the Faith Foundations Program.
5. The program shall be run once every semester/term, so that someone doesn’t belong to certain
stage (new believers) for a very long time. Those who join the program midway will be helped to
appreciate what they missed by getting them through it at a personal level with the Disciple-makers.
They can then attend classes for the next semester.
4.4 Finally,
It’s important to note that true growth takes time, tears, love and patience. It takes faith to see people as
God expects them to be and wants them to become. And it takes knowledge and patience to help get them
become what God created them to be.This is what the CU is called to do
CHAPTER FIVE: ESTABLISH – NURTURING GROWTH TO SPIRITUAL MATURITY

KEY SCRIPTURE PASSAGES
Colossians 2:6 -7.
So then, just as you received Christ Jesus as Lord, continue to
live in him, rooted and built up in him, strengthened in the
faith as you were taught, and overflowing with thankfulness.
1 Peter 2:4-5.
As you come to him, the living Stone—rejected by humans
but chosen by God and precious to him— you also, like living
stones, are being built into a spiritual houseto be a holy
priesthood, offering spiritual sacrifices acceptable to God
through Jesus Christ.
Acts2:42,46-47
They devoted themselves to the apostles’ teachings, and to
the fellowship, to breaking of bread and to prayer…Every day
they continued to meet together in the temple courts. They
broke bread in their homes and ate together with glad and
sincere hearts, praising God and enjoying the favour of all the
people. And the Lord added to their number daily those who
were being saved.
5.1 Introduction
Establish is the formational part of the discipleship strategy that involves nurturing students into spiritual
growth and maturity.
At this level in the discipleship strategy, we focus on the following:
1. Knowing God deeply: Train CU members to develop a vibrant, growing and personal relationship
with God (Philippians 3:10-14).
2. Transformation: Help the CU members learn and practice obedience to God and living a Spirit-
controlled life as the foundation for their character transformation to Christ-likeness (Ephesians 4:13)
The main programs that facilitate this growth are:
1. Personal Devotions
2. Bible Study – Scripture engagement
3. Prayer
4. Fellowships
5. Brothers and Sisters Fellowship
5.2 PERSONAL DEVOTIONS: DAILY FOCUS PROGRAM

5.2.1 Introduction

Personal devotion is the act of spending regular time alone with God; reading the word, reflecting,
meditating and responding in obedience and prayer. The aim is to cultivate an intimate relationship with God
through the Word and prayer.
Personal devotion is also commonly known as quiet time (QT).
The Daily Focus Program is an excellent way to cultivate the discipline of personal devotions by committing to
study through the Bible in three years using the Daily Bible Focus devotional Guides. In essence, this gives
every student on campus an opportunity to study through the Bible from cover to cover at least once during
their period on campus. It should be noted that the emphasis in the Daily Bible Focus program is Bible study
and not just Bible reading.
At the heart of the Daily Bible Focus is the concept of Scripture engagement. We seek to ensure that each
generation of students in our University and college campuses loves, studies, lives and shares God’s word.
5.2.2 The Need for the Daily Focus Program

1. Private life of devotion is the foundation for a fruitful public life fellowship and Ministry: Gordon
McDonald in Ordering Your Private World, writes, “If my private world is in order, it will be because I
am convinced that the inner world of the spiritual must govern the outer world of activity”. The
development and maintenance of our inner worlds should be our highest priority. One of the best
ways of keeping taking care of our inner life is having personal devotions. The strength and richness
of the community life of the Christian Union depends on the depth of experience in each individual
member’s private life of devotion.
2. There is a great need to nurture discipline and consistency in personal devotions among CU members -
For most Christians, it is way easier to be faithful in participating in corporate devotion than personal
devotions. On the other hand, some of those who do personal devotions struggle with the issue of
discipline and consistency.
3. The need to keep track of students’ participation in personal devotions – Even though personal
devotion is a private affair, it’s important that we find a way of evaluating how members of the
Christian Union are doing in this area. The Daily Bible FOCUS program provides one of the ways this
can be measured and evaluated.
4. Not all students can participate in the CU corporate devotions: It is becoming more and more difficult
to have all CU members actively participate in corporate devotions such as morning and evening
prayers because most of them stay outside campus. It is therefore essential that we develop a strong
personal devotions program that can enable easy mutual support and accountability among CU
members and proper follow-up and evaluation by CU leaders.
5.2.3 Objectives
1. To help the CU members appreciate the place of personal devotions and develop the discipline and
skill of doing personal devotions.
2. To help the CUs integrate accountability among members on personal devotions through the
existing Small Groups and other Ministry programs and therefore capture data and evaluate how
members are doing in this area.
3. To raise mature believers who are not only dependent on the C.U programs for their Christian walk
but can stand even without the programs.

5.2.4 Program Content and Implementation
The table below gives the key components of the
COMPONENT DESCRIPTION Implementation Guidelines
Consistent This is daily and systematic  One must have a well designed Bible Reading plan
Bible Reading reading through the Bible  Different people approach this differently based on
(CBR) with the goal of reading what is convenient for them
the Whole Bible within a o 1,2 or 3 year plans
specified period of time. o Book by book, chapter by chapter from
Genesis to Revelation or using Bible reading
plans with portions of scripture from
different Books every day etc.
 To ensure discipline, CU members should be
encouraged to read in accountability groups.
Personal The key here is Daily and  The CU shall do publicity, create awareness and
Study of systematic thorough Study train members on the details of the program every
God’s Word of God’s Word at personal beginning of the Year.
or individual level.  All CU members should be encouraged sign up for
the program, purchase the Devotional Guide and
The preferred model is to commit to be accountable.
have the Daily Quiet Time  Members studying through the same Devotional
and use the Daily Focus Guide at any given time can be connected through
Devotional Guide Series. social media or any other convenient means to
share reflections and ask each other question as
Those who had already they journey through the study.
started using another  Members should be encourage to set aside a
Devotional Guide or those specific time and where possible place for the study
trained in the skill of for consistency.
Manuscript Bible Study  The CU leaders concerned and FOCUS Staff shall
should feel free to follow facilitate these processes, maintain records,
through and complete the capture data and collate feedback from members
study model they have to generate reports for evaluation and
chosen. improvement.
Biblical  To make the most out of the Bible Study, CU

meditation members should be trained on the discipline of
Biblical meditation.
o What is Biblical Meditation?
o Why is it important?
o How can it be best accomplished?
 Members should therefore be encouraged to
practice the discipline as a key part of their personal
devotional life.
Personal This refers to daily time  Prayer should be a natural response to God during
Prayer alone in prayer (Mark 1:35). or after the Bible Study Session.
This should involve both  Over and above prayers made during the quiet

the natural response to time, CU members should be encouraged to set
God after Bible Study aside time, preferably on weekly basis where they
during Quiet Time and spend quality time in intense prayer alone with God.
special time set aside for  The CU Leaders and FOCUS Staff should seek to
intense prayer on regular train members on cultivating a lifestyle of prayer.
basis at personal level.  Members should also be trained and encourage to
set side time for prayer and fasting at personal
level.
Devotional This involves keeping a  The CU Leaders and FOCUS Staff should seek to
And Reflective journal with records of train CU members on the discipline of journaling
Journaling what one hears God say o What is devotional journaling?
during the devotions, o Why is it important?
prayer requests and how o How can it be best accomplished?
God answered as well as o
reflections from the
meditation process.
Accountability This is the mechanism to  Small Bible Study and Ministry Groups are the best
Structures be put in place to ensure platforms for accountability not only for personal
as many members as devotions but also for all other discipleship
possible participate and processes and programs.
remain consistent in  Small Group Leaders, especially Small group Bible
personal Devotions Study Leaders should be effectively trained to
facilitate accountability for personal devotions
among the group members.
 Every Semester/Term, Small group leaders should
be trained on appropriate follow-up mechanisms
that make small groups platforms for mutual
support and accountability in personal devotions.
 The leaders should also be given convenient tools
for collating data on members participation and
consistency in various aspects of personal
devotions.
5.2.5 The Daily Focus Devotional Guide

This is a nine (9) series devotional study Guide published by FOCUS Kenya for use among students,
Associates and churches. The intention is for one to study through Three (3) volumes each year and
ultimately go through the entire Bible in three (3) years.
The devotional guide is designed to help enrich personal devotional time (quiet time), find a healthy balance
between reading and studying the scriptures and nurturing consistency in doing so. It provides a brief
commentary on each passage under study which is very helpful in enriching one’s own interpretation of the
passages. It also gives points for further reflection to help enrich ones application of the scriptures.
Unlike “the bible in a year” programs, which often pose the challenges of high rate of drop out and struggle
to catch up with lost days, the Daily Focus series aims at helping its user to focus on shorter portions of
scripture. This allows one to spend more time o the passage of study, and by not following specific calendar
dates, the guide enables you to start at any time in the course of the year.

For this reason, it serves students best because they can start at any time of the year when the academic
calendar begins. First Years can easily start when the report to campus regardless of the dates of reporting
and walk through the Bible in a detailed way over the entire period they are in campus. Upon finishing
campus, they will have studied through the Bible cover to cover!
5.3 BIBLE STUDY PROGRAM (SCRIPTURE ENGAGEMENT)

5.3.1 Introduction
A deep commitment to the Bible has always been and remains to be one of the core values of the Fellowship
of Christians Unions and by extension the Christian Unions.
In most of the CU constitutions, the doctrinal basis therein affirms, “the divine inspiration and entire
trustworthiness of the Holy Scripture, as originally given, and its supreme authority in all matters of faith and
conduct”.
The word of God is foundational for growth in Christian discipleship. By engaging God’s word through study
and responding to Him in obedience, we are shaped into disciples of Jesus Christ. As stated in the IFES
Scripture Engagement Booklet, The Word Among Us, “The Worddraws us into the presence of God himself,
inviting us to know and trust Jesus, receive his grace, enjoy his fellowship and deepen our commitment to
him…The Word of God also enables us to see the world as God sees it and challenges us to bring his truth
and hope to our context and society”6.
The Bible Study program therefore seeks to challenge students to love, study, live and share God’s Word. It
is anchored on the words of scripture in Ezra 7:10, “For Ezra had devoted himself to the study and
observance of the Law of the Lord and to teaching its decrees and laws in Israel”.
One distinctive characteristic of this program is that it focuses on students studying God’s word together in
small groups. In most CUs, it’s therefore called the Small Group Bible Study.
5.3.2 Objectives of the Bible Study Program
1. To deepen our convictions about the nature and purpose of God’s Word.
2. To model a lifestyle of Bible Study
3. To nurture best practices in handling the Word of God
4. To help our students and graduates develop a biblical world view and engage the challenges of this
world from a biblical perspective
5.3.3 Program Content

This program has three main components
1. Small group Bible Study
2. Training for small group Bible study leaders
3. Strengthening discipleship through small Bible study groups
5.3.3.1 The Small Group Bible Study
6
Sabine Kalthoff et al. The Word Among Us: Scripture Engagement in IFES. 2015. IFES is an acronym for International
Fellowship of Evangelical Students. The Guide was developed for the global gathering of representatives of all IFES
movements, the World Assembly 2015.

The Small group Bible study is a weekly disciple-ship program in which students meet together in groups of
5-10 members to do Bible Study. In most cases, these groups study through a given topic, book or character
over the entire Semester or term.
1. Why Small Groups?

a. It makes fellowship possible
Fellowship is more than just singing in a group and listening to a sermon. It has to do with being deeply and
genuinely involved in each other’s lives, which is not possible in a large group. “You can worship with a
crowd, but you cannot fellowship with a crowd.”
b. It is personal
In a small group, it is possible to meet one another’s needs through sharing, prayer, moral support, material
assistance etc. It is easier to open up ones life to a few people than to a crowd.
c. It provides a sense of belonging
Close fellowship makes each member feel a part of the group. You are missed if you don’t come. This
enhances accountability
d. It provides more ministry and leadership opportunities
It minimises inactivity as more members are involved in the activities of the group. It’s a good ground to
develop and expose leaders.
e. It is flexible
It is easier to change procedure, programs, meeting places etc with a small group.It provides a good
opportunity for growth.
 Each member participates; even the shy and the new Christians, thus giving them an opportunity to
grow.
 There is a lot to learn from one another through interactions, and as each member exercises his/her
gift.
f. It provides a good opportunity for practical ministry
This involves
 A good training ground for discipleship
 A good vehicle for outreach and growth of the GBU
 A good system for caring for the needs of the body
 A good shelter in times of trouble
 A good forum for praying together with and for one another
g. While Studying the Bible in small groups:

The study is greatly enriched by the observations from different people. The members help one another to
observe, interpret and apply the word. It is easier to check our views and avoid error when there are
different views. The experiences of different individuals enrich the application: learning from each other’s
experiences. It provides a good opportunity for learning how to study the bible personally in the company of
other believers; i.e. learning from others. The members can follow up on and support one another with the
applications of truths learned during the study.
2. What Makes a Healthy Small Group? (Acts 2:42-47)
a. Meeting the Living Word (Jesus) through the written Word (The Bible)
b. Allowing God’s Word to influence four dimensions of our lives together.

c. When the groups grow into intentional discipleship communities within the larger body of the
Christian Union.
3. Four Dimensions of healthy small groups
A time when A time when

the group members in the
speaks to God Worship Fellowship group speak to
each other
WOR
D
Nurture Mission A time when

A time when
the group
God Speaks to
speaks to the
the Group
world
Nurture.
 We all need the spiritual food required for healthy Christian growth. This comes mainly through Bible
Study.
 This should be a major point of focus for the group, not only for the growth of the members, but it is
also what feeds the other aspects of the group’s life.
Worship
 As people learn from God’s word, they grow and worship springs forth.
 We worship God in song and prayer for who He is and for the things He has done to individual
members of the group and in the surrounding, as well as for revealing His Word to the group.
 It also involves prayer for one another’s needs, for the group, the GBU and the World; i.e. prayer and
intercession.
Fellowship
 A small group ought to provide a favorable environment for close, intimate and genuine sharing that
is not possible in a large group.
 In this we accept, affirm, encourage, support and correct one another.
 Life in a Christian community ought to reflect “the commitment of love and obligation we have
towards members of our families. It is the devotion to one another based on the experience we
share of God at work saving us from the ‘corrupt generation’ around us and knitting us into effective
teams of change agents in the world. The outcome of life in community is that we are knit together
in love and built up as whole people. This happens as we share needs, confess sins and faults, bear
each other’s burdens, encourage each other, listen with care and intercede in prayer.” Ron Nicholas:
Good Things come in Small Groups”
 The smaller the group. The better the quality of fellowship.
Mission
 Just like the individual members making it, a small group does not exist only for the sake of its
members. We have a mandate to share God’s life with others.
 The GBU cells are the best avenues for continued evangelism in campus. The group can plan to have
regular sessions of person-to-person evangelism in campus.

 But mission also involves other things such as praying for world mission, helping those in need
around us, etc.
NOTE: Every group needs all the 4 ingredients to some degree. There is need to balance them in the group so
as to meet the needs of the members.
4. The Bible in FOCUS Study Guides

THE BIBLE IN FOCUS is a Bible study discussion series that is:
a. Prepared initially by and for FOCUS (Fellowship Of Christian Unions).
b. Meant to help put the Bible in ‘focus’ (what it says, what it meant, and what it means to us today).
In these guidesthere areSix key components:
a. Introduction
b. Observation - Questions of facts from the passage.
c. Interpretation - Questions of meaning or understanding of the facts.
d. Application - Questions for personal or group application of the facts.
e. Scripture Memory – to encourage the members to memorize the verse(s) given at the end of each
study during the week. Check one another at the next group meeting.
5.3.3.2 Training Small Group Bible Study Leaders

FOCUS has over the years by and large excelled in the area of Bible study by teaching and modelling
consistent bible study and faithful preaching, by practicing small group bible study in the CUs and among
associate groups, by training the leaders of such groups and by providing them with the necessary literature
to facilitate this. In all this, training has been a key factor.
The FOCUS Bible Study (BS) training has traditionally involved two things, besides the individual mentorship
and modelling by staff and other leaders: One is the training of individuals, small groups and entire Christian
Unions on the principles of Bible study, mostly through the Inductive study method, and secondly by training
the leaders of small group BS teams.
The purpose of these guidelines is to help harness, enhance and harmonise the approaches and programs
engaged in the second area of training mentioned above: the training of bible study leaders. Training for
other groups or individuals on the general principles of bible study can be done with the guidance of the
BEST-P manual or other similar material available within FOCUS.
The small group bible study group leaders and their coordinators within the CUs or FOCUS associate groups;
or such other group with similar goals to which this training can be adopted and applied are the primary
target for this training.
1. The Need: Contextual Challenges
Four challenges help define the context in which BS leaders’ training is to be done within FOCUS, especially
among the CUs. These challenges are
a. Over the years, the small group BS program in the CUs has appeared to be divorced from the
objective of discipleship. The result is that some of the group leaders are merely carrying out an
activity, which they can’t place within the CU objectives, leading to a lack of intentionality which in
the end makes it impossible to harness the great potential for discipleship within and through the

small groups. (Reference to discipleship is here made with a mind to other aspects besides group
bible study).
b. Closely related to one above is the need to create an effective accountability mechanism for personal
devotions within the Small Bible Study groups. It has been very challenging to assess effectively
whether and how CU members do their personal devotions. Strengthening accountability and
feedback mechanism on personal devotions through Small Bible Study groups is something worth
exploring.
c. Though most of these leaders have a passion for service and will therefore carry out their duties with
diligence, they lack of knowledge and skills and this many times reduces their ability to perform
effectively. Training will empower them to be more effective.
d. The reality of diminishing number of CU members participating in small group Bible Study is a
worrying trend. Whereas lack of good leadership is not the main or only factor, it plays a significant
role and we therefore need to empower our small group Bible Study leaders to make Bible study
groups one of the most attractive discipleship programs in the CU.
These four challenges raise the need to train ALL bible study leaders, and in these trainings to highlight the
objective of discipleship within which all BS programs fit.
2. General Objectives of These Guidelines
In training the small group BS leaders, the trainer’s aim should be:
a. To instil a clear understanding of the basic principles of discipleship; highlight the place of small BS
groups in discipleship as a key objective of FOCUS and empower these leaders as disciple makers.
b. To instil a clear understanding of the nature, importance and dynamics of a small (nurture) group and
what it takes to best lead such a group.
c. To instil a passion for inductive bible study, pass on the skills required to do it and show how it applies to
small group bible study.
d. To pass on the skills required to lead a small group BS discussion while paying attention to group
dynamics and achieve the most out of the study session.
e. To help the BS coordinators understand why and how the task of coordinating bible study in the CU
should be done.
3. Training Content
TOPIC OBJECTIVES AREAS TO BE COVERED AND POSSIBLE ACTIVITIES
Discipleship 1. To instil in the leaders a clear 1. What is discipleship?
(5hours) understanding of the concept of 2. What does the discipleship mandate of the CU involve?
discipleship. What is its scope?
2. To create an understanding of the 3. How does/should the CU as a whole address this
role of the BS groups as a key mandate?
discipleship structure within the CU 4. What is the place of bible study groups in fulfilling this
3. To explain the principles of disciple mandate?

making as applicable in a small 5. What are the principles of disciple making? What will it
group setting within the CU take to produce an all rounded disciple? (accountability,
4. To instil in the leaders the skills follow-up, personal Bible study, bible reading, Quiet
required for effective disciple time, witnessing etc)
making with special emphasis on 6. Conscious of the discipleship efforts through other
helping CU members develop key structures and programs of the CU, how can the small
spiritual disciplines. group integrate and apply these principles?
7. How can the leader facilitate this?
Leading a 1. To communicate an understanding 1. What is a small group (size, nature, goals)

Small of the nature, purpose and 2. Why should a fellowship have small groups?
(Nurture) operations of a small nurture (advantages)
group 3. The life cycle of a small group
Group
2. To outline the qualities and skills 4. The four ingredients of a healthy small group, with a
required for effective leadership of bias to nurture groups
2 Hrs these groups and, hopefully, 5. Characteristics/qualities of a good small group leader
inspire the leaders to pursue and 6. Skills to develop for effective small group leadership
develop these.
Inductive 1. To instil the knowledge of the 1. What is IBS? – focus on the approach and attitude
Bible Study principles and practice of IBS required as before method
2. To instil the skill required for the 2. The method – Highlight the 3 steps of IBS
practice of IBS 3. Do a practical exercise to help instil the skill
5Hrs
4. The application of IBS in small group bible study i.e. the
attitude, approach and method.
Activity: Actual study of one passage of scripture through
the 3 steps and discussion of the same
Leading a 1. To communicate the principles and 1. The orientation of small group BS – highlight discussions
Small Group practices required for productive as opposed to preaching, debates etc.
Bible Study facilitation of small group BS 2. Preparation for group BS: leader’s and members’
discussions preparation
Discussion
2. To instil the skill required for this. 3. The actual discussion: the three steps of observation,
interpretation and application
2 Hrs
 Paying attention to group dynamics
4. Follow up of a BS discussion
Activities: Simulation/demonstration of a BS discussion and
Use of video clip of BS discussion
Coordination 1. This would be meant only for Bible A basic precursor to this training is thorough training on and
of Bible study coordinators, either as understanding of the first four areas targeting group
Study individuals or teams, depending on leaders.
the CU leadership structure. 1. What is the role of a BS coordinator (team of
Programs
2. To instil the knowledge and skill coordinators)
required for effective coordination 2. Discipling the CU through BS
of small group leaders  Needs assessment
 Selection of BS guides/ other material
 Creativity in instituting other BS programs
 The place of BEST-P
3. How to coordinate BS in the CU
 Choosing/selection of BS leaders
 Establishing feedback systems
 Small group leaders’ meeting
Activity
1. Accompany the/each coordinator to visit a BS group and
discuss observations, assessment and relevant advice
for the group leader afterwards.
2. Involve the coordinators in follow-up trainings of BS

leaders and discuss performance afterwards
To achieve such comprehensive training, there are two possible approaches

1. One time comprehensive full-weekend training that allows all the topics to be covered with each of
the topics being allocated the time given.
2. Series Model where BS leaders can go through a week-long or even a month-long to ensure the
content stated is adequately covered.
The training should be done at the beginning of the semester to allow adequate time for application of
lessons learnt.
It is very good practice to have mid-semester and end-semester evaluation forums with BS Leaders to share
experiences, testimonies and learn more.
5.3.3.3 Strengthening Discipleship Through Small Bible Study Groups

As highlighted in the Personal Devotions program and details of Bible Study leaders training content, it is
intended that Small Bible Study groups form the most critical unit of discipleship in the Christian Union.
This requires the Bible Study groups become communities of discipleship in the larger context of the
Christian. The small Group Bible Study groups then should serve the following discipleship functions:
1. To help the CU members appreciate the place of God’s Word and develop the discipline and skill of
studying, practising, memorising, meditating upon and teaching it.
2. To raise mature believers who are grounded in God’s Word.
3. To help the CUs integrate accountability among members on personal devotions through the
existing Small Groups and therefore capture data and evaluate how members are doing their walk of
discipleship.
5.4 PRAYER
Acts 6:4. “But we will devote ourselves to prayer and to the ministry of the word."
5.4.1 Introduction
FOCUS is committed to prayer as the foundation for all our activities. FOCUS Staff, Students and Associates
have worked on their knees in concerted, united, sustained and intentional prayer for revival and
evangelization of their institutions, churches and friends.
FOCUS envisions a well coordinated national student prayer movement functioning through the various
prayer initiatives by individual students, Christian Unions, regions and at national level. The coordination of
prayer at national and regional level shall be executed through the FOCUS Intercessory Network (FIN)
framework.
5.4.2 The Working Model of FIN

The working model in the diagram bellow illustrates the overall coordination of prayer programs from
National level in FOCUS, to regional, CU and individual level.

This is captured under the FOCUS prayer mobilization and training strategy – the FOCUS Intercessory
Network (FIN). The diagram below shows how FIN is coordinated from national level to the regions, the CU
and the individual CU member.
FOCUS PRAYER COORDINATOR (Staff In Charge of Prayer)

Develop Bi-monthly Prayer Bulletin, Mobilize and Coordinate Staff Prayer
Initiatives, Provide national leadership in prayer mobilization and coordination
NATIONAL FIN CHAMPION (NASEC Official in Charge of Prayer)

Mobilize and Coordinate National Student Prayer Initiatives, Facilitate networking &
information sharing regions for synergy in prayer, Push national prayer agenda in regions
REGIONAL FIN CHAMPIONS

(One of the RSEC Officials or One of the CU Prayer Coordinators in the Region)
Mobilize and Coordinate Regional Student Prayer Initiatives, Facilitate networking and
information sharing across CUs for purposes of prayer, Push National and Regional Prayer
agenda at CU level.
THE CU FIN CHAMPIONS (The CU Prayer Coordinator or Champion Appointed by Exec)

Mobilize and Coordinate CU Prayer Initiatives, Facilitate networking and information sharing across CU departments for
purposes of prayer, Push National and Regional prayer agenda at CU Level.
CU Members in Intercessory Groups (With Group Leaders)

Mobilize and Coordinate Group Prayer Initiatives, Facilitate networking and information sharing among group members for purposes of
prayer, Push National, Regional and CU agenda at group level.
5.4.3 Roles Of Various FIN Coordinators
The key role of FIN Champions at all levels will be to mobilize and spearhead prayer for the ministry of
FOCUS at their respective levels. The specific functions will be as follows:
1) FOCUS Staff in Charge of FIN

a) Shall Coordinate prayer initiatives among Staff and Associates at national level
b) Shall in consultation with the National and Regional FIN Coordinators, Regional Coordinators and
other members of Staff formulate and circulate the prayer items and develop bi-monthly prayer
bulletins.
c) Shall be responsible for effective running of FIN at the national level and regularly report to the
Discipleship and Leadership Coordinator on progress of the network.
d) Shall maintain records of the members and leaders of FIN at national level.

2) National FIN Champion
a) Shall mobilize and coordinate all Regional FIN Coordinators to ensure well coordinated prayers
for FOCUS among students at national level in consultation with the FOCUS Staff In charge of
prayer.
b) Shall be responsible for effective running of FIN at the national level and regularly report to the
NASEC on progress of the network.
c) Shall organize national prayer initiatives for FOCUS among students.
d) Shall the national prayer agenda is adopted in all regions.
3) Regional FIN Champions

a) Shall, in consultation with the Regional Coordinator and RSEC Officials, mobilize and coordinate
all CU Prayer Coordinators to ensure well coordinated prayers for FOCUS among students at
regional level.
b) Shall be responsible for effective running of FIN at the regional level and regularly report to the
RSEC Officials on progress of the network in their respective regions.
c) Shall organize regional prayer initiatives for FOCUS among students.
d) Shall ensure the national and regional prayer agenda is adopted in all CUs.
4) CU FIN Champions
a) Shall mobilize and coordinate all CU Members to ensure well coordinated prayers for FOCUS
among students at CU level.
b) Shall be responsible for effective running of Prayer at the CU level and regularly report to the
Executive Committee on progress of FIN initiatives.
c) Organize prayer meetings e.g. Kesha, chain prayers, prayer and fasting days, prayer walks etc.
and rally the CU members to participate in the activities
d) Shall circulate monthly prayer bulletins and incorporate FIN prayer items into the CU Intercessory
meetings.
5) Intercessory Group Members and Leaders at CU level

a) Meet at least weekly for prayer
b) Shall Ensure FOCUS National and Regional prayer issues are captured in various CU intercessory
prayer meetings
c) Shall faithfully participate in FOCUS national and regional prayer initiatives.
5.4.4 FIN Coordination among students

 The champions for FIN at CU level will be the CU Prayer Coordinators (or a member of the
Intercessory team appointed by the Executive Committee). FIN will therefore exist as a prayer
initiative within the CU prayer structure where members of various intercessory groups in the CU
receive regular prayer updates through the CU FIN Champion. This is to avoid isolation of FIN or
duplication of intercessory ministry in the CU. It is therefore incumbent upon the CU executive
committees through the Prayer Coordinator to incorporate FIN into their intercessory framework.
 The CUs (or prayer groups in the CU) will be coordinated by the Regional FIN Champion to come
together at regional level (virtually and occasionally physically) to form a Regional FIN which in turn
are coordinated nationally to form the national FIN.

 The Regional Coordinator in consultation with RSEC will identify and appoint regional prayer
champion who may be an RSEC official or one of the prayer coordinators in the region to spearhead
FIN activities at the regional level.
 The Regional FIN Champion will work primarily with the RSEC officials and Regional Staff to mobilize
and coordinate prayer in the region. He or she will also regularly consult with the National FIN
Champion, other Regional FIN Champions and FOCUS Prayer Coordination desk to receive regular
prayer updates.
 There shall be bi-monthly prayer bulletins from the FOCUS Secretariat that will give general guidance
on key issues of prayer nationally.
 We recommend that the CU weekly meetings (mid-week fellowship and Sunday service) to have a 5-
15min prayer and intercession slot. Such slots can on some occasions be coordinated by FIN
Champions to set the entire CU on prayer motion for FOCUS.
 The National FIN Champion will coordinate World Student Day activities under the guidance of the
FOCUS Staff in Charge of Prayer and the Student Ministry Director.
5.4.5 Prayer Training
Part of mobilizing students for sustained prayer is to integrate prayer training and mentorship so as to
develop leaders in this front. We will achieve this through:
1) Key FOCUS conferences such as Ezra, Commission, Leadership summit, Evangelism and missions’ summit
integrating prayer training as a key part of the program.
2) Regional prayer summits designed for prayer training. Regional coordinators should therefore factor a
prayer summit in their annual calendars atleast once in three years.
3) All CU leadership training fora shall integrate prayer training- whether in theory or practically.
4) There shall be atleast one training on prayer per CU per year.
5) Prayer Coordinator in liaison with Research and publications officer to develop a prayer training manual
to be used in all training fora in CUs. This will constitute the FOCUS prayer concept.
6) Through consultation in regular review meetings, we shall vet and develop a resource person’s matrix
for teaching of prayer in our CUs. This will help address the unfortunate reality that a number of our CUs
have a somewhat distorted concept of prayer and intercession.
7) STEM Staffs remain key movers of FOCUS agenda in CUs. SOT curriculum shall include prayer training and
sessions of prayer and fasting so as to inculcate the culture of prayer among our Staff. Henceforth SOT
program shall seek to factor at least one day of prayer and fasting.
5.4.6 Guidelines on Data Collection for Prayer in CUs and Regions
Measure How to Measure (Things to Additional Notes

Measure)
Percentage of CU members  Morning Devotions The average for all regular prayer
attending various prayer and  Prayer and Fasting Events meetings be computed separately. This
intercessory meetings  Other Weekly CU prayer will allow us to measure consistency.
meetings
 CU Prayer Retreats % attendance for one time key events as
 Overnight Prayer Meetings Keshas, retreats should be computed
separately.

Number/percentage of CU  Accountability mechanism in We will seek to introduce this in the BS
members having regular and Small Bible Study (BS) Leaders handbook to being developed.
consistent personal prayer as groups
part of their personal devotions  BS Leaders to give feedback A sample Sheet is attached separately.
to Prayer Leaders
 This can be in form of a
sheet to be filled weekly.
% of CU members trained on  Number of CU members It will be help to highlight the content of
prayer Trained – List of CU the training as well.
members participating in
trainings
 See attached sample
training program for
standard training content.
Number of Regional Prayer  Number of meetings, Some of the events can be sub-regional
Events number of students who in regions with a vast geographical area.
participate, Number of CUs
represented
Number of CU members who  Register all students who In Every FOCUS students meeting,
attend Regional Prayer Events attend events by their CUs delegates who attend should register
and clear number of participants
established.
5.4.7 Guidelines on Trainings on Prayer in the CUs
Purpose of the Training Guidelines:

1. To ensure standardized prayer training in all CUs in FOCUs. The Specific programs and approach may
vary with the CU and the needs. This therefore provides general guidelines to ensure consistency in
core content.
2. To equip CU leaders and members with knowledge and skills an effective prayer ministry, whether it
be personal, small group or corporate CU prayers.
3. To provide reference material for use by Staff in facilitating CU prayer ministry and training.
Content:
Topic Sub-topics and Notes Additional Notes
Biblical Theology of  What is Prayer? This is a very foundational session
Prayer o Biblical concept of prayer and lays the basis for every other
“Lord teach us to o Prayer and Personal session. It should address itself to
pray” Relationship with God the highlighted broad issues among
 Why Pray? others.
o Purpose of prayer
o Priority of prayer  In this session, the facilitator
o Power of prayer should aim at walking the
 How should we pray? participants through “a survey of
o Passion in prayer the Bible” with a view to
o Principles of effective prayer exploring subject of prayer and
 Where and when should prayer be made? revealed in the Scriptures.
o Is there something like place and  The facilitator should examine
both the OT and the NT and how
hour of prayer?
both present the concept of
prayer.
 He/she should expose various
misconceptions about prayer as

they present the sound Biblical
perspectives.
It should also allow for a time for
questions, reflection, discussions
and prayer.
Important note:Various aspects of
this session can be divided in various
sessions handled by different
speakers.
Prayer and fasting  Biblical basis for fasting This is a Biblical exposition on the
“Souring to Higher  Why and when should we fast? subject of fasting.
Hights in Prayer”  How can prayer and fasting be done
effectively?
Cultivating  This session should focus on cultivating a Besides the training, this session
Discipline of Prayer lifestyle of Prayer as one of the core should introduce practical tools of
“Pray without Spiritual Disciplines developing the discipline and
Ceasing”  Prayer and other Spiritual Disciplines evaluating growth e.g
 The focus here in the individuals and their  Developing a prayer journal
prayer life.  Forming accountability
groups
 Proposing a devotional
guide – The Daily FOCUS etc.
Effective Prayer  Place of Prayer in the CU discipleship This session focuses on equipping
Ministry in the Strategy participants with essential
Christian Union  The role of CU Prayer coordinators knowledge and skills that will enable
“The making of a  Developing an effective Prayer Ministry in them run prayer ministry in the CU
prayer movement” the Christian Union effectively and in a Biblical, relevant
 Strengthening prayer life of CU members and dynamic way.
 Forming and running effective prayer and Facilitator should also present
intercessory groups in the CU sample prayer meeting program.
 Effective Facilitation CU Prayer meetings Facilitator should introduce the FIN
 Effective prayer mobilization Mobilization concept in these
sessions.
5.5 Conclusion
We will remain true to our commitment to be, among many other things we are and do, a praying
movement. “But we will devote ourselves to prayer and to the ministry of the word." Acts 6:4.
5.6 FELLOWSHIPS
5.6.1 Introduction
Fellowship amongst students on campus is experienced at different levels; large group meetings such as
Sunday services and midweek fellowships and small group meetings such class fellowships, ministry
meetings among others.
The term fellowship in this context therefore is used to refer to both the meeting together of brethren and
the communal worship that goes on during the large group CU meetings.
For the purposes of this manual, we will focus on three key fellowships
1. Sunday Services
2. Midweek Large Group Fellowships

3. Class/ Year/ Faculty Fellowships
In our commitment to uphold the value of excellence, we will seek to propose ways of improving these
fellowships to get the maximum fruit from each one of them. The key word in our guidelines here is
intentionality. These fellowships should be intentional with clear purpose, clear target group and creative
design.
5.6.2 The Key CU Fellowships

In her book, An Hour On Sunday, Nancy Beach states, “The hour on Sunday can be a time of wonder, a time
of transformation, maybe a time of awe”. This can be said of each of the CU fellowships if well planned and
executed. The table bellow gives proposal of how these three selected fellowships can be run in an attempt
to enhance relevance, fruitfulness and impact.
Fellowship Objectives Content and Design

Sunday Service 1. To offer weekend worship  Can be alternating between seeker sensitive (for
and learning experience for believers but sensitive on seekers present ) or
Christians seeker targeted (for seekers but sensitive to
2. To offer weekly experience believers present) services.
for spiritual seekers who are  Worship – well organized simple worship with
not necessarily born again variety that ministers both to believers and
3. To evangelize to non- seekers.
Christians who attend the  Prayer – short sessions of guided prayer that
services make non-believers comfortable and easy to
follow and participate.
 Creative arts -
 Testimonies – testimonies to show God’s work in
people’s lives to encourage believers and
challenge seekers to turn to God.
 Sermons – variety of sermons with a strong
evangelistic component.
 The service should be short, time should be well
managed, language used should be sensitive to
seekers in the service.
Mid-Week 1. To edify believers and equip  Worship – Deep varied styles of worship
Fellowships them for Ministry and allocated adequate time to allow believers to
outreach. experience God.
 Prayer – relatively longer sessions of guided
prayer that allow time for worshipers to have
both personal and corporate prayers. Some
sessions of prayer do not have to be guided
 Creative arts -
 Testimonies – testimonies to show God’s work in
people’s lives to encourage believers.
 Sermons – variety of sermons with a strong
discipleship, mission’s mobilization and
leadership development components.
 The service should be allowed sufficient time,
time should be well managed, people are free to
use predominantly Christian language.
Class/Year/Faculty 1. To provide platform for  Should be more interactive with regular
Fellowships worship and sharing among discussions and praying in small groups.
believers in same class, year  Should be largely informal
of study or faculty.  The proposed content:

2. To provide opportunity for o Year 1 – Anza FyT
believers to invite, interact o Year 2
and share freely with non-  SEAS of Student Life
believers on common issues  Preparation for taking key
shared in class or course of leadership positions
study with purpose of o Year 3
witness.  Preparing for attachment,
Internship, Volunteer work
and teaching practice
 Career Issues
o Year 4&5
 Preparing for attachment,
Internship, Volunteer work
and teaching practice
 Career Issues
o Final Year – Vuka FiT
5.6.3 Preparing for and Running the Fellowships

1. The date and time of the fellowships should be convenient for both time and venue because of other
possible clashing events like lectures. They should also factor in non-resident students.
2. The CU should seek formal permission from college administration to use the venues to avoid
conflicts with other groups. Once the program for the semester is developed, the CU should seek
approval for use of various venues for the entire Semester.
3. Leaders should set aside time for praying for the service
4. There should be a clear schedule with various individuals or groups responsible for each section of
the service program.
5. Venues should be Cleaned and arranged before time of the service
6. There should creative, dynamic and relevant publicity of the service; posters, social media
mobilization etc.
7. The speakers should be Followed-up at least a day before with clear and effective communication
8. Each responsible persons or groups/ministry should be given time to facilitate the various aspects of
the service(play their roles)
9. Ushers should be at the entry points and within the venue to make people find their places in the
service and to arrange them accordingly.
10. There must be clear and responsible time management with clear order of events. Limit the number
of people involved in the program to make it simple.
11. Give the speaker ample time but a max of 1hour including the conclusion prayers
12. The leadership should evaluate the services done at most one week after the service/fellowship.
Feedback should be given to various participating groups, the speaker and the congregation in case
of any issues for follow-up.
13. Review the cost incurred especially for special events; fundraisers, elders’ nights, worship
experiences etc.
5.7 BROTHERS AND SISTERS FELLOWSHIP

GENESIS 1: 27. God created men and women differently. That means that some of the needs we have are
very gender specific
5.7.1 Introduction
The brothers and sisters fellowship is a specialized ministry in the Christian union, that involves two groups
(brothers and sisters) meeting separately or jointly to discuss issue/ needs that relate to them.

The fellowship’s aim is to meet needs that the members consider special inter-gender and intra-gender .
Such needs would not be properly engaged in a main fellowship because of the sensitivity attached. Such
needs include management of cross gender relationship, financial management, self-awareness and self-
esteem. Such issues are considered personal and are emotional in nature.
5.7.2 Objectives
1 To help the brothers and sisters identify, appreciate and engage the intra and inter-gender special
needs for purposes of holistic growth
2 To enhance the Biblical understanding of human sexuality as a key part of growth in discipleship.
5.7.3 Program Content

BROAD TOPIC SUB- TOPICS DESIRED OUTCOMES
Being a man/ 1. Biblical basis of human sexuality  Members who have healthy
woman 2. Personal discovery and envisioning relationships amongst
3. Appreciating gender uniqueness and themselves
differences  Members who appreciate
4. Building healthy inter and intra gender who they are.
relationships
Solid Man/woman 1. Developing character and integrity  Members who are
2. Sexual purity empowered to handle
3. Maximizing on past experiences challenges soberly
4. Cultivating emotional balance  Members committed to
sexual purity in their
relationships
Successful and 1. Diligence and hardwork  Members who are
Fruitful 2. Managing success and handling failure committed to diligence,
man/woman 3. Effective ministry hardwork and responsible
4. Responsible citizenship living
5. Responsibility to family and humanity
Family man/woman 1 Dating and courtship and Marriage  Members who appreciate the
2 Maximizing your singlehood process of marriage and the
3 Career and family place of singlehood.
4 Gender roles
CHAPTER SIX: EQUIP – DEVELOPING SKILLS FOR EFFECTIVE CHRISTIAN SERVICE

KEY SCRIPTURE PASSAGE
Ephesians 4:11-12.
It was He who gave some to be apostles, some to be
evangelists, and some to be pastors and teachers, to prepare
God’s people for works of service, so that the body of Christ
may be built up until we all reach unity in the faith and in the
knowledge of the son of God and become mature, attaining
the whole measure of the fullness of Christ.
6.1 Introduction
Equip is the functional part of the discipleship strategy that involves developing skills for Ministry to serve in
the body of Christ.
The programs at this level are geared towards the process of equipping committed Disciples with knowledge
and skills to effectively serve as Workers in God’s household. This is in view of FOCUS vision of raising and
equipping students and graduates, and mobilizing them for active ministry and service in the Christian Union
and the local church in line with the biblical principle of “priesthood of believers ”.
i. Bible Exposition Self Training Program (BEST-P)
ii. Ezra 710 program
iii. The CU School of Ministry
6.2 BIBLE EXPOSITION SELF TRAINING PROGRAM (BEST P)
6.2.1 What is BEST-P?

“BEST-P” is an acronym for Bible Exposition Self - Training Program. It is a long term group oriented
training program on Bible study and expository preaching skills.
6.2.2 Origin Of BEST-P
The first BEST-P group was formed after Ezra ’89 (The FOCUS Annual Bible and Leadership Training
Conference) when some of the delegates felt that they wanted to put into practice what they had learnt
during the conference that at that time was exclusively for Christian Union Leaders. The group was meant
to help the members become good Bible expositors through a self training program. It was to provide the
necessary challenge to help each other to be better Bible students and to prepare adequately before they
presented their expositions. The rest would then evaluate the presenter in order to help them improve

during their future presentations. BEST-P groups have since continued to increase in number with several
CUs having them within the Campus.
6.2.3 The BEST-P concept
Bible Exposition Self-Training Program focuses on skills of
1. Bible study,
2. Bible exposition
3. Preparation of bible study guides.
The group is initially trained on inductive Bible Study, principles of bible interpretation and the art of
sermon preparation and presentation.
The group will then decide on the book(s), passages or themes of the bible to be studying. Each
participant will be assigned a study unit. In their personal study, the participants will do a thorough study
seeking to apply the skills learnt and organize the study materials into a sermon. After this, every
participant will do a presentation with the rest of the group members forming the audience. The group will
evaluate the work focusing on the interpretation of the text, the flow and content of the sermon and the
manner of presentation. They will make their contributions and comments which the presenter will
consider in his final write-up and future presentations. Since evaluation is a key aspect of this training, the
group will use a detailed evaluation form.
6.2.4 The Need

For any person with a deep commitment to the scriptures, a casual look into the content and manner of
presentation of a good number of sermons in different fellowships and media programs would bring grief to
the heart. This is because in these, there is blatant misinterpretation of the scriptures, so that God is
misrepresented from the pulpit. Whereas sometimes this is the result of wilful twisting to achieve selfish
goals, many more times it is the result of sheer incompetence/ lack of know-how on the part of the ministers.
Every year, the Christian Unions in Kenya produce hundreds of graduates who have gone through
discipleship and training meant to equip them for godly impact. Because of their position in society by virtue
of their level of education, these graduates largely find themselves in positions of leadership wherever they
go, and this includes their local churches. Indeed, one FOCUS associate, John Ng’ang’a, has often insisted
that the CU program should be some form of Bible School. This, he says, is because Christian graduates will
be expected to know a lot about their faith because they have been to University/College, irregardless of
their area of specialisation. When they go back to their local churches, many will be expected to preach. The
question is: To what extent do the CUs prepare the members for this role? But even before they have to
preach in churches outside, the Christian Union offers its members multiple opportunities to share God’s
Word in such forums as person-to-person evangelism, CU meetings, Evangelistic team/ministry meetings, CU
missions etc. It is very crucial that these opportunities be used for maximum impact.
BEST-P is an attempt to meet the Church’s need for sound and effective bible teachers by equipping college
students with the passion, skills and attitudes required. Even though the CUs, through their regular
programs, do a lot to this end, there is need for more conscious effort and an opportunity for those
interested to go deeper. BEST-P offers this opportunity.
6.2.5 General Objectives of BEST-P Training

Through this training, it is targeted that the participants will at the end be passionately committed to the
scriptures through:
 Diligent, consistent and thorough study
 Faithful application in their own lives
 Faithful and effective preaching
6.2.6 The BEST P Manual

This BEST-P Manual is designed to give guidance and direction to the BEST-P groups in their operations. It
contains useful notes on the various areas that would be of interest to members in this program. It is
designed to help new BEST-P groups and new members to be equipped with the necessary knowledge and
skills for Bible study, sermon preparation and delivery. Hopefully, it will also help sustain the impetus of
these groups and encourage more people to join. However, regular trainings for these groups and
consultations with the FOCUS staff will still be essential. It might also be necessary for the BEST-P groups to
invite some FOCUS Staff to participate in their meetings to help answer questions that are likely to arise
during the meetings. Even though this manual is designed to be as self explanatory is possible, some of the
things it contains are not exhaustive and may require some explanation.
6.2.7 BEST- P Content

BEST-P has Six key areas of skill development
1. Biblical hermeneutics
2. Inductive Bible Study
3. Expository Preaching
4. Homiletics
5. Apologetics
6. Writing Bible Study Guides
Season 1: IBS, Hermeneutics, Expository Preaching and Homiletics

Week Area to be Covered Activities
Introduction to BEST Purpose and overview of BEST P program.
Week1 Hermeneutics 2-hr Training on Hermeneutics
Week2 IBS 6-hr Training on IBS – Possibly a weekend
Week3 Expository Preaching and Homiletics 2-hr Training on Expository Preaching and Homiletics
Week4 Application of Hermeneutics, IBS Develop group exercises that involve working through a
and/or Expository Preaching Skills text using IBS and Hermeneutics lessons learnt and
preparing a short exposition.
Week5 Application of Hermeneutics, IBS First presentation in each group to last 30 min and then have
and/or Expository Preaching Skills 20 min for evaluation and discussion
FOCUS Staff should be present listen and participate in the
evaluation

Week6 Application of Hermeneutics, IBS Second presentation in each group to last 30 min and then
and/or Expository Preaching Skills have 20 min for evaluation and discussion
FOCUS Staff should be present listen and participate in the
evaluation
Week7 Application of Hermeneutics, IBS Third presentation in each group to last 30 min and then have
and/or Expository Preaching Skills 20 min for evaluation and discussion
Week9 Application of Hermeneutics and IBS Plenary Discussion on a contemporary subject on requiring an
Skills authentic Biblical response.
Week10 Review of IBS and Hermeneutics Reflecting on lessons learnt during the presentation and
laying emphasis on identified areas of need.
Week11 Review of Expository Preaching and Reflecting on lessons learnt during the presentation and
Homiletics laying emphasis on identified areas of need by FOCUS
Staff and well Trained Senior BEST P members
Week12 Application of Hermeneutics, IBS Final presentation in each group to last 30 min and then have
and/or Expository Preaching Skills 20 min for evaluation and discussion.
Season Two: Apologetics and Writing Bible Study Guide
Week1 Recap of IBS, Hermeneutics, 2 Hr Plenary discussion on lessons learnt and

Expository Preaching and Homiletics experiences in applying the lessons in personal study
and in preaching assignments
Week 2 Apologetics 1-hour Training Session on Apologetics
Week 3 Apologetics 1-hour Training Session on Apologetics
Week 4 Apologetics Presentation of an Apologetics engagement of a
contemporary issues by an expert (This could be a video
or audio apologetic presentation or debate, role playing)
Week 5 Application of Apologetics Individual presentations of various apologetic
engagement developed through group discussions
Week 6 Application of Apologetics Individual presentations of various apologetic
engagement developed through group discussions
Week 7 Writing Bible Study Guide 2 hour Training on the process of writing Bible Study
Guide
Week 8 Writing Bible Study Guide Developing a sample study material for a selected
portion of text – preferable a short book like jude or
Philemon.
Week 9 Writing Bible Study Guide Group sessions of practising developing Bible Study
materials.
Week 10 Course Overview and Evaluation So what? Having learnt all these, what’s the point?
Have an evaluation meeting to see how well you have
performed as a BEST-P group.

6.2.8 CONCLUSION
We need to remember that the primary purpose of BEST-P is to help us "improve our serve” and not to equip
us to look for other people’s mistakes. We need to allow God to use us as a tool in his household and
whatever we do, we ought to do it as unto the Lord and not unto men.
Definitely, when we become good Bible students we will not simply accept anything that is told to us from
the pulpit. We shall seek to find out, like the Bereans (Acts 17:11), if what is being said to us is from Scripture
or not. If we have to correct others, let us do it with gentleness and respect (1 Pet 3:15).
One of the things that will have to be born in the minds of all BEST-P members is that they should avoid
making the Program a purely academic exercise. We should rather allow God to use these groups to build up
the members. We should aim at making our expositions to have a word in season to minister to the listeners
and to inspire hope among those who are hungering and thirsting after righteousness.
It may also be helpful for the BEST-P members to consider undergoing some more elaborate training in these
areas as it will be a great investment for the body of Christ
6.3 THE EZRA CONFERENCES

FOCUS has, since 1989, regularly organized a “Bible and Leadership Training Conference” dubbed the “Ezra
Conference.” However, the emphasis of the Conference has shifted from “Bible and Leadership” to “Bible
and Discipleship”. The running theme for the conference has been from Ezra 7:10 with an emphasis on
studying, practicing and teaching the word of God. Through the years, Ezra has continued to impact
generations of students and associates. This concept note is an attempt to capture what Ezra originally is
about, while also taking into cognizance realities that have emerged with time. This is in an effort to refine
the thrust and perspectives of this program and in so doing aid planning and evaluation processes in future.
6.3.1 The Purpose of the Ezra Conferences
With the above discussion in mind, the purpose of the Ezra conference can be said to be:
To equip the delegates with the attitude, passion and skills that will enable them to grow into effective
disciples and students of God’s word. This effectiveness will be marked by consistent reading, thorough
study, faithful application and effective proclamation of the word.
6.3.2 Core Content of an Ezra Conference
In order to achieve this purpose, the Ezra conference should thus be designed to instill the required passion,
attitudes and skills. To this end, the following items should be present in any Ezra conference program:
1. Bible Expositions: This should target addressing an area of need in terms of discipleship, while also being
a practical modeling of quality expository preaching.
2. Plenary topics: These should include doctrinal, devotional, discipleship and contemporary issues, all
addressed in the light of scripture. As it is with the Bible expositions, the sessions should target
addressing those areas while also demonstrating expository application of the scriptures to meeting
discipleship issues in both devotional as well as preaching situations.
Note: In both the expositions and the plenary topics, the speakers as well as the delegate must be made
aware of the twin goals of the sessions, namely: to teach God’s people while also demonstration quality
exposition of God’s word.
3. Small group Bible studies that are well planned and led.
4. Seminars addressing various areas of bible study and the application of the same to life issues. The focus
should, however, be more on bible study training as opposed to teaching people from the bible.
Note: All seminar speakers must be made aware of the goal of instilling the passion, attitudes and skills
though the sessions. A list of some of the seminar topics is attached for reference.
6.3.3 Ezra Conference Core Content

The topics that from the basic Ezra conference curriculum are:
1. Bible Hermeneutics
2. Inductive Bible Study
3. Consistent Bible Reading
4. Expository Preaching
5. Homiletics
6. Old Testament Survey
7. New Testament Survey
8. Introduction to Church History
9. Introduction to Christian Apologetics
10. Interpreting at least two genres among the following:
 Interpreting OT Narratives
 Interpreting the Gospels
 Interpreting the Psalms
 Interpreting Apocalyptic Passages
 Interpreting the Epistles
11. Discipleship Explored
12. Stewardship Explored
In order to achieve this target, the program should be designed in such a way that it makes it possible to
finish the curriculum in two sessions. There should also be a way of determining what one has gone through
and documenting the same for future reference. It is only in this way that certification for participating in the
training will be meaningful.
6.3.4 Speakers for the Conference
Because of the multiple objectives for the various sessions as has already been discussed, great care must
always be taken to ensure that quality speakers are gotten for the same. Their commitment to faithful
handling of scripture must never be in doubt; the purity of their doctrine must be clear; their competence in
delivery should be tested and proved.
6.3.5Delegates and Organization
As has been mentioned, there is clearly a need to progressively increase the number of participants in the
Ezra conferences. However, it should also not be forgotten that the design of the conference is such that
most of its objectives are achieved through training in the seminar sessions. This training element must thus
never be lost in the pursuit of numbers. Where need be, a session would need to be split into several parallel
tracks in order to accommodate more people while maintaining quality.
6.3.6 National, Regional and CU Ezra Conferences

There are three major reasons why we need Ezra Conferences at Regional and CU Level
1. The need to reach as many students as possible: The great need to have every Christian student (CU
members) go through the Ezra Content (Comprehensive Training on Discipleship and Scripture
Engagement) atleast once during their life on campus as we work towards raising graduates who are
authentic Christian Disciples who know how to correctly handle the Word of Truth (2 Tim 2:15).
2. The Need to make our Conferences Cheaper: Regional and CU Ezra Conferences will be held on
campuses without hiring the venues, making them as cheap as possible. Students have access to a
significant portion of what would be offered at the National Ezra at a very low cost . This also makes
it easy to reduce numbers for National Ezra which in effect make them cheaper to run.
3. The Need to limit the number attending National Conferences for more effective training: With the
CU Conferences, we are able to regulate the numbers at National and Regional level in order to

provide depth and thoroughness required to empower those who attend to go and impact others in
their Christian Unions.
6.3.7 The Program for Regional and CU Ezras

The Standard time for Regional and CU Ezra is Three Days, for minimal interfering with students’ learning
schedules.
 Friday Evening – Plenary
 Saturday –Full Day
o Morning Plenary
o Seminars - Mid Morning and Afternoon (Allowing adequate time (atleast 1.5 hrs per
seminar) for deeper engagement
o Evening Plenary
o Night Plenary
 Sunday – Full Day
o Morning Plenary – Short Service
o Seminars - Discussions on Contemporary Discipleship Issues
o Early Afternoon Closing Plenary
6.3.8 Conclusion
A number of the issues discussed in this note can and will need to be subjected to progressive review. It is,
however, my hope that the thoughts will richly inform all planning of Ezra conferences in FOCUS in the days
to come.
6.4 SCHOOL OF MINISTRY

School of Ministry is training program aimed at equipping CU members with specialized ministry skills for
effective service.
The key categories to be targeted for specialized training include:
1. Music Ministry – praise and worship, Choir and Instrumentalists
2. Sound Technicians
3. Creative Arts
4. Catering and Hospitality
5. Media and Publicity
6. Ushering
CHAPTER SEVEN: EMPOWER – BULDING CAPACITY FOR LEADERSHIP AND LIFE LONG MISSION
ENGAGEMENT

KEY SCRIPTURE PASSAGE
2 Timothy 2:2.
And the things you have heard me say in the presence of
many witnesses entrust to reliable people who will also be
qualified to teach others.
7.1 Introduction
Empoweris the framework part of the discipleship strategy.
The programs at this level are geared towards the process of building capacity for CU members to become
agents of godly transformation in church and society serve as Leaders and Missionaries wherever God sends
them upon graduation. This is in line with the vision of FOCUS to see Christian Students and graduates
impacting church and society.
i. Finalist Transition Program (Vuka FiT)
ii. Mentorship
iii. Leadership Formation
The last two programs are comprehensively covered in the Leadership Manual. In this manual we will focus
primarily on the Vuka Fit Program.
7.2 THE FINALISTS TRANSITION PROGRAM (Vuka FiT)

7.2.1 Introduction
FOCUS aims at least 90% of finalists from our CUs equipped for effective life after campus. However due to
lack of a structured, systematic and strategic engagement of the final year students as well minimal Staff and
Associates involvement, this target has never been met. Vuka FiT is a standard, organized curriculum with
clear guidelines for facilitating finalist’s transition.
7.2.2 The Context & Background

Arguably, close to 5000 finalists have transitioned from our CUs since 2011. Yet, by November 2013, only 1655
finalists in 28 CUs were reported to have gone through a finalist’s training programme. This means that CUs
are currently doing little to engage with the finalists, and prepare them for life after campus. There is also
yawning gap between the number of finalists leaving our CUs, and their eventual recruitment, translation
and integration into FOCUS Associates. The need to grow the number of active Associates from a working
baseline of 500 in 2011 to over 2000 by 2015 hinges significantly on effective recruitment of new Associates
and effective finalist’s transition provide a relatively easy platform for massive recruitment of young
Associates.
7.2.3 Scope and purpose of the Vuka-FiT Programme

Vuka FiT serves three main purposes as outlined below.
1. Discipleship
As a discipleship programme, the Vuka-FTPis the tail-end of the CU discipleship stream, which the final year
students will have gone through by this time. As “elders”, it is expected that the focus of their discipleship
has gradually shifted from just the basic issues of faith and life as a student to concerns of their immediate
and long-term future as potential professionals in the marketplace, marriage and family life, and wider
engagement in the church and society. Therefore here the focus is on preparing the finalists for effective
Christian living beyond campus.
2. Mission
Vuka-FiT programme, while addressing pertinent discipleship needs of the finalists will also facilitate the
consolidation and sharpening of their mission-mindedness in light of their impending transition from student
life to life in the marketplace and contemporary society. This directly feeds into the mission aims of creating
in the finalists a mind for mission, sensitization on the need for practical involvement and general exposure
to possible areas of engagement as “salt of the earth” and “light of the world.”
3. Associates recruitment, networking & involvement

The concept on the Finalists’ transition programme is also informed by the need to provide a strategic link
between students and Associates ministry, particularly in the aspect of recruitment and mobilization for
involvement in FOCUS beyond campus. Vuka- FiT will facilitate the recruitment, networking and engagement
of finalists for active participation in the FOCUS associates community. If this works as envisioned, there will
be a natural link between students and associates ministry, bridging the transition and integration gap that
has seen FOCUS lose many finalists and potential associates in the whole process.
7.2.4 The Programme Objectives

In light of the background and broad aims discussed above, the content and structure of the Vuka-FiT will be
largely informed by and generated along the following five key objectives:
 To provide for the finalists’ a forum for stock-taking, sharing and reflection on their student-life
experience in light of their forthcoming transition.
 To provide an accountability and support structure for the finalists through peer fellowship in their last
year of student life.
 To build the finalists’ capacity for engaging in the transition process and life after campus through
relevant information, exposure and training on essential life skills
 To facilitate the nurture of mission-mindedness of the finalists in light of their gifts, calling and future
career aspirations beyond campus.
 To encourage and facilitate recruitment and networking of finalists’ long-term involvement in FOCUS
as actively-engaged associates
 To inspire and strengthen faith and confidence about God’s good plans for their lives beyond campus
7.2.5 The Programme Content and Curriculum

In light of the goals and objectives of Vuka-FiT, the curriculum content of the program shall be divided along
the following 5 thematic categories.
 Career Development

 Engaging Transitions
 Relationships & Marriage
 Pastoral Care & Spiritual Wellness
 Ministry Beyond Campus
Under each of the these themes is a training content comprising a block of 4-6 topics, each identified with a
given code as indicated in the table on the next page. Although it may not be possible for any particular
Finalists group to go through all the topics per block within the year, it is possible to cover at least 1 or 2 core
topics for each category, spread through the two semesters.
In keeping with the concept of Vuka-FiT as explained earlier, the programme draws its inspiration from the
story of the Israelite pilgrimage from Egypt to the Canaan, with emphasis on the transition from the
“Wilderness” across the “Jordan” to the “Promised Land”. Building on this idea, the concept of Vuka-FiT
envisages the transition from student life (a time of crucial, foundational preparation and formation for their
greater future) to the professional life in the marketplace (where they pursue and seek fulfilment in their life’s
dreams) and contribution to the wider society, as a kind of Wilderness-Jordan- Canaan journey and
experience. Therefore the programme has been structured to fit within the final year in campus, broken
down into two sessions or phases:
7.2.5.1 Phase 1: Taking Stock; Envisioning the Land

This will happen in the First Semester, and will address foundational issues, along the content
outlined in the proposed Programme schedule. It is hoped that at the beginning of this phase,
the, Finalists Affairs Committee (FACE) will have been constituted and mandated.
Content dealing with the more long-term needs of the Finalists should addressed in this
Phase.
7.2.5.2 Phase 2: Stepping Out; Crossing the Jordan
This will happen in the Second Semester, and will build on the content addressed in Phase I.
As the second semester begins, there should be an increasingly greater emphasis on training
content and activities that directly impact on the practical transitional and immediate needs
and concerns of the Finalists, as their exit from campus draw near.
For effectiveness of the programme, it is recommended that Staff guide their CUs in choice of topics to be
addressed, in light of the individual CU Finalists Training Needs Assessment (see Vuka-FiT Implementation
Guidelines & Appendix I) and the Vuka-FiT programme objectives. This will ensure that felt needs are met
while at the same time having a rich content balanced along the core areas of needs of Finalists.
7.2.5.3 Table 1: Programme Objectives & Proposed Content

Core Need/ Main Objectives How to achieve this
1 Provide the Finalists a forum for  Testimonies and sharing in the final years’ fellowship meetings
stock-taking, sharing and reflection  Retreats with aspects of bonding and team-building activities

 Finalists Sunday- which is programmed by a Finalists; sharing
testimony/ open forum
2 Provide an accountability and  Come up with Elders’ Affairs Committee
support structure for the Finalists  Establish prayer partnerships and voluntary peer mentorship
groups
 Engage mentors from among the CU Associate/ Alumni
fellowship
 Active Staff involvement in Finalists Committee as Ex-officio
members
3 Build and enhance the Finalists’  Training of the Elders’ committee- at the beginning of final year
capacity for engaging in the  Carry out capacity-building and needs assessments for the
transition process and life after Finalists in every CU (Develop a needs assessment sheet within
campus first 3 weeks of final year)
 Come up with a teaching/ training programme with topics and
activities covering at least following core content areas. This is
categorized along 4 thematic areas, as outlined in the Vuka-FiT
Curriculum in Table 2 below.
4 Facilitate and enhance the nurture  Appropriate teachings and training - e.g. Ministry Beyond
of mission-mindedness of the Campus etc.
finalists  Exposure/ networking with resource people- especially in
special activities as above; mentorship etc.
 Developing the Personal Vision & Mission statements/ plans
and Personal Development Goals etc.
5 Encourage and facilitate  FOCUS awareness- on need & opportunities of participation
recruitment and networking of as Associates
finalists’ long-term involvement in  Registration and recruitment drive- planned into the
FOCUS programme, e.g. Staff coming up with Registration Forms and
then doing follow-up in line with the Associate Recruitment,
Follow-up & Integration Strategy
6 Inspire and strengthen faith and  Staff pastoral support to the Finalists through direct
confidence about God’s good plans involvement in their fellowship/ programme
for their lives beyond campus  Sharing testimonies by older Associates/ Alumni about their
life experience
 Topic in the CU main Programme- ensure relevant topic(s)
included by the Exec in the programme...Staff should be
deliberate to guide the Exec in the programming
7.2.5.4 Implementation of the Vuka-FiT Programme

The content in the curriculum in Table 2 bellow should be then be mapped on a two-semester programme, in
the final year of their life in campus. Preferably, the finalists programme should take the whole of their last
year in campus, so as to cover a comprehensive scope of the needs of the final year students. This will factor
in both the teaching/ training components and the other constituent activities and special initiatives of the
finalist’s programme, as proposed in the above framework. Since all the topics can’t fit in one year
programme, Staff and Associates should work with Finalists Committee to identify at least two topics to be

covered under each thematic are after a comprehensive needs assessment. A higher premium should be given
to the topics in bold.
Table 2: Vuka-FiT Curriculum

Thematic Topics Code Content
Category
1 Career Career & CD-01 Are there some distinctions between career and calling? What are
Developm Calling some of the prevailing misconceptions? How can we identify our
ent (CD) calling in life? What is God’s purpose for our career/ career choices?
How can we live in light of God’s calling on our lives, as we pursue
our career dreams and goals?
Personal CD-02 What is personal mission and vision? Is there a biblical basis for
Mission & these? Why is it necessary as finalists to develop this? How does one
Vision ( Living write their personal mission and vision statements?How can we
a purpose implement/ live in light of our personal mission and vision?
driven life)
Job-Seeking, CD-03 What does Job-seeking entail?What are some of the challenges to
CV Writing & be overcome?How do we package our educational, work experience
Interviews and skills in a “marketable” way? What is a CV, how do we write a
good CV, and what are its uses in job-seeking?How can we prepare
and successfully go through job interviews?
Considering CD-04 What are the contextual realities/ the picture of postgraduate study
Post- in Kenya today? Where does one start in pursuing post-graduate
Graduate study?What are the opportunities/ avenues available for study?
Study What are some of the common challenges that we need to be
prepared for?What are the secrets of success for a rewarding career
in academic pursuit?
Entrepreneur CD-05 What is entrepreneurship? What is the enterprise industry like in
ship Kenya today, and the current realities to be aware of/ prepared for?
What does it take for one to be a successful entrepreneur?What
opportunities/ avenues and resource networks are available for
beginners in entrepreneurship?
Developing a CD-06 Is there such a thing as a “Christian” way of thinking about and
Christian engaging in work? What is its biblical basis?What are the
Work Ethic misconceptions about work that Christians should be clear about?
What are some of the values related to work that we need to
cultivate as Christians professionals in the making?What is the
significance of a Christian work ethic in the secular marketplace
today?
2 Engaging Stepping Out ET-01 What is “Transitions”, and what does it entail/ unfold, with respect
Transition to the anticipated transition from student life?What biblical
s (ET) inspiration is there for understanding transitions and realities
involved? What are challenges involved in this process? How can we
effectively prepare for and manage transitions?
Finishing ET-02 What does it mean to finish strong? What are some of the inspiring
Strong/ Well biblical models/ examples and lessons to be learnt? What are some
(Faithful to of the pitfalls to be aware of and avoid? What are some of the

the End) practical tips for “fighting the good fight, running the race and
keeping the faith”?
Surviving ET-03 What are some of the realities of life in the marketplace and the
Life after wider society today to be aware of as a finalist?What the sources
Campus are of influence (positive and negative) that we will encounter with
out there?How can we retain a faithful witness, while living a
thriving life in all the SEAS of life? What encouragement can we
draw from others (testimonies) who have made it in their lives?
Personal ET-04 What does effective personal planning & organization entail? What
Planning & is the necessity and importance of planning as finalists? What are
Organization the consequences of failure to plan and organize our lives well? How
can we effectively plan and organize our lives in light of the ongoing
transition from student life? What are some of the habits of
effective living can we cultivate to ensure proper organization of
our lives as we transit from campus?
Money ET-05 What is the Christian perspective about money, and what are the
Matters differences with prevailing views in contemporary society? What are
some of the biblical principles about handling money? How can we
budget and manage our finances in light of the transitional period
and the challenges involved? What are some of the habits of
effective personal financial management to cultivate now in light of
our future financial goals, e.g. investments, owning assets etc.
3 Relationsh Passion & RM-01 The joys and perils of passionate love. Dealing with the challenges of
ips & Purity – True maintaining purity. Making a commitment to remain sexually pure,
Marriage Love Waits being accountable to others and keeping others accountable.
(RM) Considering RM-02 What are the key considerations in choosing a marriage partner?
Marriage and How can one effectively plan and prepare for a successful wedding
Family and marriage? What are the key Biblical convictions, values and
practices that should be developed to make a successful Christian
family? What are challenges facing family institution today?
Maximizing RM- What are the joys, opportunities and shortcomings of singlehood.
Singlehood 03 How do we make the most of our season in life when we are single.
Making a commitment to remain sexually pure, being accountable
to others and keeping others accountable.
4 Pastoral Celebrating PS-01 What are some of the incidents in our journey in campus that
Care & and counting taught us the God is faithful? What does the Bible say about God’s
Spiritual on God’s faithfulness? How does that assurance of God’s faithfulness
Wellness Faithfulness influence our approach to life after campus?
(PS) Maintaining PS-02 What does effective Spiritual Passion entail? What is the necessity
Your and importance of sustaining ones spiritual passion? What are some
Spiritual of the habits of Christian living can we cultivate to ensure we
Passion maintain our spiritual passion? What are some of the pitfalls to be
aware of and avoid that easily drain our spiritual passion? What is
the importance of keeping a Spiritual Journal?
Dealing & PS-03 Failure can be a springboard for future success, but it can also lead
Healing from to self pity and stagnation. How can one learn to accept past
Past Failures failures of campus life and move into the new face with renewed

zeal to excel? What is needed to maintain focus in life despite past
failure? How can we avoid self pity and instead turn failure into
resiliency?
Knowing His PS-04 What is meant by God’s will? What exactly does God require of my
Will life? How can I be sure that God is leading me? How does a christian
get to know God’s will?
Developing a PS-05 What does it mean to have a Christian mind? How does one
Christian cultivate a Christian mind? What is the place of biblical
Mind understanding and view of the mind? How does the Christian mind
relate to our purpose in life, issues of relationships, work etc?
5 Ministry Considering MC-01 Why and when do we need to settle in a local church? What are the
Beyond a Local key considerations in choosing a local church? What are the key
Campus Church Biblical convictions, values and practices that should be developed
(MC) to make us responsible and fruitful members of a local church?
The Christian MC-02 How can one remain on the cutting edge while at the same time
in the maintaining professional and business ethical standards? What is
Marketplace the Biblical foundation, context, guiding Biblical principles for
serving in the market place as a Christian? What is the role of the
Christian Community and the Church in supporting Christians in the
market place?
Developing a MC-03 How do we become Christians with a lifelong commitment to
Mind for missions? What is the place of life-long missionary career in today’s
Mission Christian life? What lessons can learn from the Biblical examples of
people who lived all their lives in mission? How can we remain
conscious of our Christ-likeness and what it means in our everyday
life and engagements as ambassadors of God?
Becoming a MC-04 Who is a FOCUS Associate? How does one become a FOCUS
FOCUS Associate? What are the roles, responsibilities and privileges of
Associate being a FOCUS Associate? How can one join a FOCUS Associates
fellowship?
6 Vessels in Award of Upon completion of the Vuka Fit Curriculum in the CU, Finalists will
the recommenda be required a prayerfully fill a commitment form capturing key
Masters tion Letters aspects of the training that they need to uphold, possible areas of
Hands and ministry involvement they wish to pursue and a commitment to
Commissioni support FOCUS work. This will be on voluntary basis.
ng during It will then be followed by awarding of recommendation letters and
Elders Night/ Commissioning them to God’s hands as they leave campus during
Finalist the Elders Night.
Sunday
7.2.5.5 Vuka Fit Program Design

The programme draws its inspiration from the story of the Israelite pilgrimage from Egypt to the Canaan,
with emphasis on the transition from the “Wilderness” across the “Jordan” to the “Promised Land”.
Therefore the programme can be broken down into two phases with various topics as indicated in Table 3
bellow. These topics are addressed in various finalists activities that include but not limited top from
fellowships, retreats, dinners, breakfasts, Luncheons, day outs, mission trips, mountain hikes, small group
discussions etc.

Vuka-FiT Sample Programme Design (See Detailed Program in the full Vuka Fit Concept Paper)
SEASON I: TAKING STOCK; ENVISIONING THE PROMISED LAND (SEMESTER 1)

Week Activities and Topics Objectives
1&2 Establishment, Induction and Training of Finalists Affairs Effective leadership,
Committee, Registration of Finalists, Publicity of Vuka-FiT. understanding and
Developing Finalist Program with Vuka content ownership of Vuka FiT
concept
3&4 Stepping Out, Recounting God’s faithfulness, , Dealing with the Reflecting on past years on
past campus
5 &6 Knowing God’s Will – (Adjusting The Antenae) Seeking God’s guidance
7&8 Personal Vision and Mission, Personal Planning and Organization, Envisioning life and ministry
Finishing Strong, Sustaining Your Spiritual Passion (Vision 2030) after campus
9&10 Career Development I: Job Searching, CV Writing and Engaging Develop Biblical perspective
Interview on career. Equipping for job
searching.
11&12 Engaging Transitions: What next, where to live, Living with host Stimulate prior preparation
family etc for leaving campus
SEASON II: CROSSING THE JORDAN (SEMESTER 2)
Week Activities Objectives
1&2 Career Development II: Career and Calling, Biblical Work Ethic, Help develop Biblical
Developing a Mind for Missions perspective on work and
career
3&4 Considering Marriage and Family To inculcate Biblical family
values
5 &6 Entrepreneurship, Money Matters, Christians in the Market Place See curriculum
7&8 Careers Workshop – Specialized training for various Disciplines Focus on various disciplines
9&10 Ministry beyond Campus: Considering Local Church, Becoming See curriculum
FOCUS Associate
11&12 Finalists Celebration and Commissioning See curriculum
7.2.6 Formation and Training of Finalists Affairs Committee (FACE)
In order to harmoniously coordinate the planning of the Finalists activities and realize the implementation of
Vuka-FiT Programme, it is crucial that each CU constitutes a Finalists Affairs Committee. This should be
arranged such that the Committee is in place at the end of the third year (i.e. the year preceding the final
one) the transition point to the final year. If this can coincide with the CU nominations and elections, it can
go a long way in giving the Vuka FiT leadership official recognition, alongside the new CU leadership team.
This has been found to work well in some Christian Unions, for example the case of University of Eldoret 7. At
the very least, the Executive should be proactively engaged in giving the necessary impetus for its formation,
as well as the ongoing support needed to establish the Vuka-FiT programme.
7
The University of Eldoret officially recognizes the Finalists/ Elders Committee leaders, and as has been the
practice, every year the nomination of the Finalists leadership is integrated in the CU electoral process, culminating in
their formal introduction to the CU alongside the new CU leadership team.

7.2.6.1 The Roles of the FACE
Although different CUs may have other context-specific roles and responsibilities of the Finalists committees,
the following is a standard job description of the Finalists Affairs Committee:
 Mobilize and coordinate the Finalist’s class fellowship and activities
 Provide vision for the Finalist’s fellowship and plans
 Linkage and reporting to the CU Executive Committee
 Coordinating the implementation / running of the Vuka-FiT programme in the CU
 Enhance ownership of the CU beyond campus by Finalists, through linkage to the CU Alumni
Association/ Fellowship
 In liaison with the CMF/ STEM Staff, carry out training needs assessment for the finalists, and do the
programme evaluation at the end of first and second semesters.
7.2.6.2 The Roles & Responsibilities of Staff

The main work of the Staff is to provide support and consultation with the CU in formation, training of FACE,
and ensuring the full implementation of the Vuka-FiT programe. In light of this, the following are the specific
roles and responsibilities of Staff:
 Create awareness, sensitize the Exec on the idea of Vuka-FiT programme, and ensure its
implementation in the Christian Union.
 Induct and conduct training for the Finalists Affairs Committee
 Consultation with the FACE and linkages/ networking with resource people, including speakers and
session facilitators in the programme, e.g. Careers Workshop etc.
 Proactively support the FACE and be available for counselling with finalists
 Coordinate the recruitment, registration and follow-up of finalists to become FOCUS associates, and
avail their details to the Associates Director for integration in main database.
 Help FACE evaluate their progress the mid-and end of the Vuka-FiT Programme
 Attending the Finalists fellowship meetings or special activities and committee meetings for
acquaintance purposes as well as facilitation of some sessions, as the case may be.
7.2.6.3 Training the FACE
The table bellow shows the key areas of training for the orientation Committee.
Devotional: Entrusted to Entrust To explore the Biblical basis for Finalists Transitions
Program
Overview of the Vuka FiT To Create awareness and understanding of the goals and
content of Vuka FiT program
The Role of FACE To equip the Finalist Affairs Committee with knowledge and
skills needed for facilitating the Vuka FiT program

Understanding the Finalists World To help the orientation team understand the finalists so as
to effectively meet their needs.
The Vuka FiT Manual To do a quick study through the Vuka FiT Manual and train
the Orientation Team walk with First years through it.
7.3 Additional Implementation Guidelines
As you consider the adoption of the Vuka-FiT Programme, the following are some helpful guidelines to help
you in your discussion and decision making.
1. Take some time individually and as a Staff with the Executive Committee to go through the entire
document. This will help you to:
 Familiarize yourselves with the content and the intents of the proposed Vuka-FiT
Programme.
 Identify issues or areas that might need further clarification by Vuka-FiT developers, or
necessary adaptation for your CU context when you get to implement this programme.
2. The Executive Committee and Finalists Committee should will deliberate on the Vuka-FiT programme
(with proper guidance and input by the Associates & Partnership Director or any other person in
charge), to ensure everyone is on the same page, and reach a decision on its integration and
effective implementation .
3. Since the Vuka-FiT programme is designed to run for 1 year, i.e. the last two semesters of the final
year, it is important that the programme be adapted to fit the available time in the two semesters.
This will help to identify what content areas to focus on, since it may not be possible to cover all the
content for the two semesters- given other CU activities.

Chapter One: Introduction: FOCUS Kenya Comprehensive Discipleship Manual

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Chapter One: Introduction: FOCUS Kenya Comprehensive Discipleship Manual

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CHAPTER ONE: INTRODUCTION

1.2. Discipleship in FOCUS

1.3. The Discipleship Manual

1.4. The specific objectives of the Manual therefore are:

FOCUS Kenya Comprehensive Discipleship Manual Page 1

2.1.1. The areas covered under this section include:

2.2. THE CONCEPT OF DISCIPLESHIP

2.2.1. Christians are to be Disciples of Christ

2.2.2. Exploring the Meaning of Discipleship

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FOCUS Kenya Comprehensive Discipleship Manual Page 3

FOCUS Kenya Comprehensive Discipleship Manual Page 4

2.4. WHAT IS THE GOAL OF CHRISTIAN DISCIPLESHIP?

b. Biblical Discipleship produces clarity of purpose and mission (Matt 5:13-16)

FOCUS Kenya Comprehensive Discipleship Manual Page 5

c. Biblical Discipleship has Christ Jesus as the Standard (Matt 5:17-48)

e. Biblical Discipleship produces true allegiance to Christ (Matthew 6:19-34)

f. Biblical Discipleship produces transformed, God-honouring relationships (Matthew 7:1-12)

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g. Biblical Discipleship is established on firm foundation – The Word of God

2.6. THE MEANING OF THE COST OF DISCIPLESHIP

2.6.1. In Biblical Discipleship, Christ is Lord of All or He is not Lord at All!

FOCUS Kenya Comprehensive Discipleship Manual Page 7

a. Putting the Master above those nearest and dearest to them

b. Value following Jesus Christ above life itself

c. Placing personal commitment to Christ above material possessions

d. Dying daily to self-interest

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2.7. WHY CONSIDER THE COST? (LUKE 14:25-34)

c. The reality of Stumbling Blocks

2.8. LOOKING BEYOND THE COST

2.9. SUMMARY OF KEY POINTS

FOCUS Kenya Comprehensive Discipleship Manual Page 9

CHAPTER THREE: FOCUS DISCIPLESHIP STRATEGY

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The Discipleship Strategy involves four key stages

3.2. FOCUS Discipleship Programs

a. Enlisting in Christian Union Membership and Discipleship Program

The two main programs at this level are:

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b. Establishing in Christian Discipleship

c. Equipping for Effective Ministry

d. Empowerment for Leadership and Life-Long Mission Engagement

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3.3. Important Note

3.4. Pictorial Representation of FOCUS Discipleship Strategy.

Leadership and Life-Long

Building Capacity for

Training in Life and

Nurturing into Spiritual

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The two main programs at this stage as earlier indicated are:

4.2 THE FIRST YEAR TRANSITION (FYT) PROGRAM - “Anza FYT”

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 First Year Orientation

 First Year Training

 First Year Integration into the Christian Union.

4.2.2 The Need

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4.2.4 The FYT Program Content

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4.2.4.2 Preparation for First Years’ Orientation

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