Foundation, Realization, Activation

Three Stages
Most Students, both those raised in the Church, and new to belief follow this process of core stages of development.

(Note: While there will be overlap in all of the stages, especially for students who trust the gospel while in college, I think these are distinct stages which have significant programmatic and process differences and implications.)

Foundation – The Gospel for All of Life
Building a Christian foundation begins by helping students personally encounter Jesus and develop belief, belonging, and biblical understanding. Middle and high schoolers wrestle with questions of identity, truth, and purpose, so this stage grounds them in Scripture, prayer, and community through consistent discipleship and mentoring. Leaders model authentic faith, guiding students to see Christianity as a transformative relationship with Christ. Through age-appropriate Bible teaching, service, and discussion-based studies, students learn to live out spiritual disciplines and internalize the gospel as the framework for a lifelong foundation (Proverbs 22:6; 2 Timothy 3:16–17; Luke 6:47–48).


Realization – Worldview Formation
As students mature, the realization stage awakens them to the broader implications of faith. College-age adults move from inherited belief to examined conviction, deepening worldview formation and missional purpose. Ministry focuses on helping them discern calling, recognize influence, and understand God’s heart for the world. Through evangelism, worldview study, and cross-cultural experiences, they shift from being recipients of faith to agents of redemption (Acts 1:8; Matthew 5:14–16; Ephesians 2:10). This realization fosters ownership of the Great Commission and inspires them to bear witness in academic, relational, and digital spaces (Matthew 28:18–20).

Activation – While You Are Going, Make Disciples
For adults through age thirty-five, activation applies faith through mature participation in God’s mission. Believers integrate convictions with vocation, leadership, and community life, stepping into local and global missions. Mentorship becomes partnership as they serve in church, missions, and community development according to their gifts (Romans 12:4–8; 1 Peter 4:10–11). Discipleship now emphasizes stewardship, sustainability, and multiplication—living out faith in family, work, and culture with courage and intentionality (Colossians 3:17; James 2:17). Activation means embodying God’s kingdom in every sphere, creating generational and global impact (2 Corinthians 5:20; Philippians 2:15–16).