The Church is growing faster than ever, especially in the Global South. But leadership development is not keeping pace.
Without trained leaders, churches struggle to disciple believers, stay rooted in truth, withstand pressure, and raise up the next generation.
By 2050, nearly 8 in 10 Christians will live in the Global South.
Keep scrollingThe Church is shifting southward and growing rapidly in places where access to biblical training is often limited.
Of Christians live in the Global South today.
Projected share of global Christians by 2050.
Of pastors have formal theological training.
New pastors needed every year to keep pace with growth.
Millions are coming to faith in Jesus Christ, but many churches are led by pastors who have never had access to formal biblical training, mentorship, or practical leadership development.
This is not just a training issue. It is a discipleship issue, a doctrinal issue, and a long-term Church health issue.
Through the Matthew 9 Initiative, Global Action equips leaders through a clear progression. It begins with biblical grounding, grows into deeper formation, and leads toward multiplication through leaders who are ready to train others in their own communities.
Foundations gives emerging leaders a strong biblical base. This teacher-led program introduces core theology, Christian doctrine, basic leadership, and faithful participation in church life.
Formation helps leaders grow in knowledge, character, and ministry practice over time. This stage is competency-based and learner-centered, with strong emphasis on mentoring, reflection, and real ministry application.
Facilitation prepares mature leaders to teach, mentor, and multiply other leaders. This selective level equips leaders to carry training forward in their own region and strengthen long-term local ownership.
When Samuel first took Global Action’s training, he was on fire for Christ, but he knew nothing about how to preach or evangelize.
As a Bhutanese man living in a tiny Buddhist kingdom, there were no seminaries or Bible colleges to attend. Through Global Action, Samuel was able to receive the training he needed by legally crossing the border into India.
That training changed his life. Samuel became a youth pastor and began equipping young people with the Gospel. In the last four years alone, he has planted around twenty churches in this closed country.
*Name and image changed for security.
Whether you want to give, learn more, pray, or advocate, there are meaningful ways to help equip leaders where the need is greatest.
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