Scottish Mission Hosts Discipleship and Apologetics Workshop in Alloa
The Scottish Mission's School of Discipleship and Evangelism equips church members to deepen their walk with Christ while developing the knowledge and practical skills to share their faith.

31 Jul 2026, 15:57Pastor Wil Masih, edited by SM CommunicationsAlloa, Clackmannanshire, Scotland, United Kingdom

Scottish Mission Hosts Discipleship and Apologetics Workshop in Alloa

Through biblical teaching, discussion and practical training, the latest Scottish Mission Discipleship & Apologetics Training Day encouraged members to become faithful disciples and thoughtful ambassadors for Christ.

More than 40 church members and leaders from across the Scottish Mission gathered at the Inglewood House Hotel, Alloa, on Sunday, 26 July 2026, for the latest Discipleship & Apologetics Training Day, which explored how Christians can confidently and compassionately engage with the questions people are asking about faith in today's society.

Organised as part of the Scottish Mission's School of Discipleship and Evangelism, the training day formed part of an ongoing series designed to strengthen discipleship while equipping members with practical tools for mission.

Opening the programme, Pastor Fitzroy Morris explored the biblical foundations of discipleship, reminding attendees that following Jesus is both a personal journey and a mission. His presentations highlighted three essential dimensions of Christian growth: becoming an authentic disciple of Christ, developing into an effective disciple-maker, and building churches that intentionally make disciples. Through biblical reflection and discussion, participants were challenged to consider how these principles could be lived out more intentionally within their local congregations.

Interactive learning sessions encouraged participants to reflect on discipleship, discuss real-life questions about faith and develop practical approaches to Christian witness.
Interactive learning sessions encouraged participants to reflect on discipleship, discuss real-life questions about faith and develop practical approaches to Christian witness.

Following an engaging question-and-answer session, Pastor Wil Masih presented on Apologetics as Discipleship, exploring how Christians can respond thoughtfully to the questions people are asking about faith.

Rather than presenting apologetics simply as the defence of Christian doctrine, Pastor Masih encouraged attendees to view it as an expression of discipleship – listening carefully, engaging honestly, and responding with humility, grace and biblical conviction. He challenged participants to consider whether Christians sometimes answer the questions they wish people were asking rather than the questions they are actually asking.

Among the topics explored were the existence of God, the reliability of the Bible, the problem of suffering, life after death, and the relationship between science and Christian faith. Drawing on 1 Peter 3:15, participants were reminded that Christians are called to give reasons for their hope "with gentleness and respect". Throughout the presentations, apologetics was presented not as winning arguments but as removing unnecessary barriers to faith and helping people encounter Jesus Christ.

The example of Jesus Himself formed the heart of the discussion. Whether speaking with Nicodemus, the Samaritan woman, Thomas or the rich young ruler, Jesus welcomed sincere questions and guided people towards deeper truth with grace and wisdom. Likewise, the Apostle Paul modelled thoughtful engagement with culture at the Areopagus in Athens, demonstrating how the gospel can be communicated faithfully while connecting with the world around us.

Throughout the day, speakers emphasised that discipleship and apologetics are complementary expressions of the Church's mission. Effective disciples not only follow Christ personally but are also equipped to communicate the hope of the gospel with clarity, compassion and confidence.

The programme was further enriched through musical worship led by Chanelle Zabate and the Kirkcaldy team, alongside contributions from the Ukrainian Seventh-day Adventist Choir, including a solo by Mariia Hodlevska and a duet by Kristina Myhyk and Reva Myhyk. Their ministry added a spirit of praise and fellowship throughout the day.

The programme was complemented by musical items.
The programme was complemented by musical items.

The day served as a reminder that discipleship extends beyond personal spiritual growth. It also means being prepared to listen well, answer thoughtfully, and point others to Christ with gentleness, respect and genuine compassion.

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