Trained to Multiply: Discipleship Fueling Growth in Thailand

"And when he had found him, he brought him unto Antioch. And it came to pass, that a whole year they assembled themselves with the church, and taught much people. And the disciples were called Christians first in Antioch."

-Acts 11:26

Greetings Ministry Partners,

As a result, a great number of people are added to the Lord. In this passage from Acts 11:24, news of the growing number of believers in Antioch reaches the church in Jerusalem. They send Barnabas to Antioch to encourage the new believers. Barnabas, described as a good man full of the Holy Spirit and faith, sees the grace of God at work and is glad. He encourages them to remain true to the Lord with all their hearts. As a result, a great number of people are added to the Lord. Barnabas then goes to Tarsus to look for Saul (later known as Paul) and brings him to Antioch. Together, they meet with the church and teach many people. It is in Antioch that the disciples are first called Christians.

The Importance of Effective Discipleship and Leadership Training

The success of Jai Saman Church’s discipleship efforts is attributed to the quality and vision of its teachers. Just as Barnabas and Paul invested in the believers in Antioch, the teachers at Jai Saman Church have invested their time and wisdom into equipping new leaders. Their collaborative efforts have resulted in a productive and effective class, ensuring that the gospel continues to spread throughout Thailand.

This shared mission between dedicated teachers and passionate students demonstrates the power of discipleship in fulfilling the Great Commission. As more believers are trained and sent out, the ripple effect of their faithfulness will continue to bring many to the Lord.

The Teacher Training Workshop in Bangkok

On February 24th, we held a teacher training for three churches in Bangkok and many other churches around the country. Thank God for this great door that God has opened for us to work with. These leaders acknowledged and agreed that CCI is a ministry that helps the local church grow through the discipleship movement, equipping leaders for effective ministry.

New Class Orientation

Last month, we started a new class. Jimmy, an area coordinator, and I had the opportunity to preach and encourage the new students to follow Jesus wholeheartedly. We emphasized the importance of being trained as disciples—learning from Him, growing in faith, and receiving preparation before stepping into ministry.

Praise God for the local pastors who receive our teacher training and then choose to start classes to equip leaders in their own churches.  

One challenging example I want to share is about a church that previously worked with Korean missionaries. When the missionaries first arrived to support evangelism and church planting, the area was remote, and the church was filled with believers. However, there was no full-time pastor or structured spiritual care—only believers looking after one another.  

After many years, the church attempted to hire a full-time pastor but found no one willing to take the role. Today, however, the congregation is excited to study the Bible under teachers trained by CCI. Instead of seeking a pastor from outside, the elders decided they would take on the responsibility themselves. They told me they are committed to learning and shepherding the church on their own. I am grateful to God that CCI’s ministry has provided the training and resources they needed to care for their congregation.

Thank you for your prayers and support.

In His Grace,

Kittikun Meetang

CCI Thailand National Director

Testimonies

Student Testimony

"I thank God for CCI, which has provided an excellent curriculum for our church. When we decided to open our hearts and launch a CCI class to train new leaders, we saw hope and revival in our church. Our leaders and members became excited and eager to learn God's Word and grow spiritually.

This training has strengthened our ministers, giving them more encouragement in their service to the Lord. As a result, our church has grown significantly. I sincerely thank CCI for this valuable resource, and I pray that God will bless everyone involved in this ministry."

-Pastor Pornchai Mahasongkram

Senior Pastor, Friends of Grace New Life Church

Motorcycle Testimony

"I use my motorcycle to visit students, encourage them, and preach in villages. Whenever I travel to teach or support believers, I am reminded of how the Apostle Paul journeyed to spread the gospel. I thank God, CCI, and the supporters who provided this motorcycle, making it possible for me to continue serving."



-Pastor Kritthichai

CCI Karen Coordinator

Teacher Testimony

"I thank God for the opportunity to start a CCI class and teach the discipleship course. Since beginning the class, I have seen God working in the students. They have become more passionate about ministry, and their engagement in church activities has increased. Personally, even though I have served in ministry for many years, teaching this course has renewed my energy and commitment. I also feel blessed to be a student in Pastor Ruektichai Puai's class."

-Krissada Chaina Apakorn

Pastor

For more updates, click here to join the private CCI Thailand Network Facebook page.