The Disciple-Making Movement in Action
Peace seems hard to come by these days. Negative news stories and social media posts have us feeling uneasy and uncertain about the future. Thankfully, we can find much-needed refuge and peace in Jesus. Whenever we’re worried or afraid, God’s Word reminds us we’re never alone, not even for a moment.
“And surely I am with you always, to the very end of the age.” Matthew 28:20b
Unfortunately, none of us are immune to fear. But how we respond to it makes all the difference. In East Africa, refugees and families living in remote communities have endless reasons to worry. Many face unfathomable challenges like water scarcity, unpredictable living situations, and family separation. And while 4africa’s water, sanitation, and hygiene teams work diligently to relieve those physical burdens, we know that Jesus is the ultimate source of true and lasting peace:
“Peace I leave with you; my peace I give you. I do not give to you as the world gives. Do not let your hearts be troubled and do not be afraid.” John 14:27
So, that’s why everything we do—every team and program in place—centers around Christ. We strive to make him known and available to those we serve. Our greatest hope is that every person knows that they are seen, loved, and valued by God. Even more importantly, they can connect with Him whenever and wherever they are. People living in remote refugee communities don’t always have access to small groups and ministry opportunities, so it’s reassuring to know they have a God who is near to them in every situation. They just need a chance to meet Him.
Enter: Persons of Peace.
As we work alongside communities to help with physical necessities like clean water and sanitation support, our ministry team looks for Persons of Peace to plant seeds of discipleship. During Disciple Making Movement (DMM) training, we teach local participants to identify Persons of Peace in their communities to further develop their ministry. Persons of Peace are critical ministry partners in places where followers of Jesus are few and far between.
Who is a Person of Peace?
A Person of Peace (POP) is described in Luke 10, specifically in the bible verses 5 and 6, when Jesus sent out the seventy-two for ministry and discipleship: “When you enter a house, first say, ‘Peace to this house.’ If someone who promotes peace is there, your peace will rest on them; if not, it will return to you.” Luke 10:5-6 (Read Full Chapter).
There are several characteristics of a person of peace. Some of these include:
- OPEN to hearing & sharing the Good News of Jesus.
- HOSPITABLE & WELCOMING toward others.
- FAITHFUL & ZEALOUS about discipleship.
- WILLING to share their testimony & what they learn with others.
A Person of Peace doesn’t need tons of background Bible knowledge. In fact, some of the most influential POPs have just recently found Jesus and have incredible testimonies to share—people like Mikaya Destiny.
Destined for More:
Destiny’s Testimony
As a young teenager, Destiny found himself caught up in the party culture. He spent his nights living it up with friends at local clubs. But when he became separated from his family during the South Sudanese Civil War, he realized he wasn’t really living at all. His life lacked meaning, substance, and real connection. He felt lost and depleted with no friends or family by his side.
He made his way to Bidi Bidi Refugee Settlement in northern Uganda, where he found Swinga East Baptist Church, a DMM church partner. He noticed that this group exemplified authentic friendships unified by their shared faith, and he longed for meaningful connections like these. Destiny felt God tugging on his heart, pulling him toward something greater and much bigger than himself. That year, in 2017, Destiny gave himself so wholeheartedly to Jesus that it was easy to recognize him as a Person of Peace.
With a second chance and new life in Christ, Destiny attended a DMM training that completely transformed his life. Now, he’s a devoted member of the church and local DMM ministry.
Destiny’s troubles didn’t go away. Some of his family members don’t support his faith, and his only remaining aunt who was helping him get through school unexpectedly passed away. But his faith has given him the strength and courage to face any challenges that come his way, knowing that his Lord and Savior Jesus Christ is on his side!
“I know that Christ is my anchor. God has given me a wonderful Christian family and has miraculously provided for me to complete my primary school and start secondary school at Highland School in the refugee camp. I am forever grateful to God for meeting 4africa and receiving a new purpose in life which is to make disciples. No matter what happens or what I am going through, I will work to store my treasures in heaven and make disciples for Jesus.”
“Do not be anxious about anything, but in every situation, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God. And the peace of God, which transcends all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus.” Philippians 4:6-7
Creating a Domino Effect of Hope through Persons of Peace:
Hellen’s Testimony
Now, Destiny leads weekly Bible studies in his home with a heart for others who share similar stories. Like Destiny, Hellen lost her family in the Civil War. During that time, she also found out her husband tested positive for HIV. Watching Destiny embrace life with so much joy and hope led her to lean into Jesus. His testimony inspired her to trust God with her life and encourage others to do the same as a Person of Peace herself:
“My life changed when I met Destiny and became a Person of Peace. The word of God has completely transformed my life. No matter what I am going through, I know everything will be okay. Every time I lead my Discovery Bible Group, I am happy to trust the God who has kept me alive and safe.
“When my husband tested positive for HIV/AIDS, I was so worried that my children and I had the disease as well. But since then, we have tested seven times and are negative. This is God’s miracle. And while my husband is gravely ill and could pass away soon, I will still spread God’s goodness for the rest of my life because I know that he has protected us and will cover us after my husband is gone.
“I thank God for giving us a unique way to spread the word of God through DMM and fellow Persons of Peace. I have learned that through DMM, the Spirit of God works to speak to the hearts of those with whom we share the gospel and provides comfort, hope, and love to those who hunger for more. May God bless you abundantly!”
“Now may the Lord of peace himself give you peace at all times and in every way. The Lord be with all of you.” 2 Thessalonian 3:16
Join the 4africa Family & Support Persons of Peace
You can learn more about 4africa’s ministry and other programs at 4africa.com/what-we-do.
Feel led to do more? We invite you to get involved and support Persons of Peace like Destiny and Hellen by becoming an agent4change. Giving monthly is a great way to empower real change through access to clean water, preventative health training, leadership development, and discipleship.
