COMPONENTS OF REBUILDING:

The Three Pillars of Prayer, Unity, and Disciple making

In the context of rebuilding Jerusalem after the exile, we find a powerful framework that applies not only to the historical context but also to our modern communities. This framework is anchored in the three pillars of prayer, unity, and disciple making, which are interdependent, much like a threefold cord. Each pillar has its distinct purpose but together they forge a path toward the Kingdom of God.

 

THE FIRST PILLAR:

Prayer – The Great Privilege

Prayer is foundational in the rebuilding process, representing our living communion with God. Nehemiah’s journey began with weeping over the ruins, demonstrating the Great Privilege of prayer. This pillar emphasizes the necessity of prayer as a lifestyle—a continuous dialogue with God that extends beyond personal needs to communal intercession.

In every community, prayer must manifest in various forms: from personal devotion to corporate gatherings, such as 24/7 prayer houses or prayer canopies. This dimension of prayer signifies our dependence on God’s power rather than our own strength, recognizing that prayer is a spiritual weapon against the challenges we face. Prophetic ministry and worship play crucial roles in this pillar, echoing the heart of Amos, which speaks of restoring the fallen tent of David.

 

THE SECOND PILLAR:

Unity – The Great Commandment

Unity stands as the Great Commandment, where the rebuilding of the sheep gate by the priests symbolizes the restoration of access to God through sacrifice. As we prioritize God above all, His sacrifice on the cross becomes our central motivation, guiding our attitudes and goals.

Leadership in unity involves leading with humility and a commitment to covenant relationships rather than contractual agreements. This means creating environments where leaders support one another, fostering a spirit of collaboration through initiatives like Nehemiah's table, which brings together fivefold leaders to strategize for community impact. It is essential that unity begins with our vertical relationship with God, which in turn enables horizontal relationships to flourish. War rooms and apostolic ministry are instrumental in this process, providing a structure for leaders to engage in intentional unity.

 

THE THIRD PILLAR:

Disciple Making – The Great Commission

Discipleship, the Great Commission, is the natural outflow of unified prayer and relationships. It is where the love we share with God and each other is made visible to the world. The shift toward effective discipleship training is pivotal, driven by evangelistic efforts that invite congregations to embrace new methods of outreach and community engagement.

In this context, ministries that focus on practical outreach, such as "Life in the Park" or "Feathers of Fire," serve as platforms for the body of Christ to unify and engage in mission work. Discipleship is not solely about intellectual knowledge but about embodying the love of God through lifestyle changes and practical actions. Mercy ministries bridge the gap between spiritual growth and community needs, showcasing the hands and feet of Christ in action.

 

IMPLEMENTING THE THREE PILLARS

The implementation of these pillars requires a concerted effort from the community of believers. Leaders must actively seek God for strategies and engage in kingdom conversations that clarify His vision for our communities. This involves establishing prayer canopies, fostering intentional unity among leaders, and supporting discipleship initiatives that emphasize practical Kingdom work.

Each of these components contributes to a larger vision of preparing the Ekklesia for The Messiah’s return. As we rebuild, we must remember that the presence of God is paramount. Without Him, our efforts are in vain (John 15:5). The rebuilding process, as seen through the lenses of prayer, unity, and discipleship, is a call to action for the body of Christ to work together in covenantal relationships, seeking His face and allowing His Kingdom to come.

In conclusion, as we embark on this journey of rebuilding, let us remain committed to these three pillars. Each of us has a role to play, and together we can create communities that reflect the love and unity of the Kingdom of God. Through intentional prayer, unwavering unity, and transformative discipleship, we can advance His Kingdom's purpose in our region and beyond