Grassroots Change Without Outside Dependency

Here is how a small, house church disciples new believers and lifts people out of poverty all at the same time. Because it is simple and reproducible, it is transforming communities in Western Kenya.

George, a wonderful church planter there, explains an example of what he does.

I look at the four people in front of me and I examine what each one has. I look at the first one and say, "You have a little land, let's use that to get the clay to make bricks." Then I look at the second one and say, "You have some trees, let's use those to build the fire to cook the bricks." I look at the third person and say, "Well, you don't have anything, but I know you love Jesus. So, you will add some extra labor when we need it." I look at the fourth person and say, "You live in town so you know who to sell the bricks to. You will move around and market them."

We then set a target of how many bricks we will make. When we are done, we set something aside for the next project and then split up the profit. Each one will take away something to feed their family and a little left over to share with others.

As we do this, each person learns how to work with others, set goals, and complete a project. In this way, he will be able to pass this same ability to others.

While this may seem simple, it is actually extremely profound when people who have been trapped in poverty-mindsets develop some basic skills that lift them up and that they can pass on to others. This is micro-development combined with church planting movements at its best. It requires no outside help and it's fully sustainable!

I'm humbled by what they are able to do as they look to God's help and work together as a true, spiritual family.

YOU have sowed the seeds that make this kind of grassroots transformation possible!

George: