3 Jul 2025, 15:07Pr Wil MasihDunblane, Stirling, Scotland, United Kingdom
Scottish Mission Members Empowered at Discipleship Training in Dunblane
The Scottish Mission’s landmark Discipleship Training event at Dunblane Hilton Hydro brought together church leaders and members from across the region for a day of inspiration, practical training, and the launch of a new three-part discipleship guide series, equipping participants to build vibrant, intentional disciple-making communities.
The scenic Dunblane Hilton Hydro transformed into a centre of inspiration and learning on Saturday 21st June as Personal Ministries leaders, Elders and church members passionate about discipleship from across the Scottish Mission gathered for a landmark Discipleship Training event. Organised by the Trans-European Division and the Scottish Mission of Seventh-day Adventists, the one-day training brought together members from every district for a time of spiritual growth, hands-on engagement, and vision casting for the future of disciple-making within the church.
Led by Dr Kayle de Waal, Director of Disciple-Making for the Trans-European Division, alongside Pr Jimmy Botha, President of the Scottish Mission, and Pr Wil Masih, Personal Ministries Sponsor, the event aimed to deepen the understanding and practice of discipleship among local church members.
A Fresh Approach to Discipleship
Central to the event was the introduction of a new discipleship resource—a three-part conversation guide series titled Leading Disciples, Growing Disciples, and Making Disciples. Developed to support small group study and mentorship, the guides are part of a wider initiative to establish a structured Discipleship Support System within every local church in the Scottish Mission. The motto for each conversation guide is “Inspiring and equipping a movement of disciple-makers to the fourth generation.” (2 Timothy 1:5-8; 2:2)
“Our aim is not just to talk about discipleship but to live it,” said Dr de Waal. “These guides are designed to equip members to be intentional in their spiritual journey and to nurture others along the way. Discipleship is a lifestyle, not a programme.”
Dr de Waal outlined a four-tier support system to ensure sustainable implementation, inviting and encouraging every church to embrace the model and commit to growing in their disciple-making capabilities.
Discipleship as Apprenticeship
Bringing a personal touch to the concept of discipleship, Pr Jimmy Botha shared a moving reflection from his time as an apprentice in the South African Air Force. Drawing parallels between learning a trade and following Jesus, Pr Botha remarked, “Being a disciple is like being an apprentice under Jesus—up close, personal, and transformational.”
He emphasised that discipleship is more than knowledge—it is relational and deeply formative. His message underscored the importance of learning by doing, and of mentoring others as a core part of Christian life.
Discovering Joy on the Journey
In a heartfelt message, Pr Wil Masih explored the emotional and spiritual rewards of discipleship. Using the story of Jairus from the Gospels, he illustrated how faith and perseverance in the face of adversity can lead to unexpected moments of joy.
“Discipleship begins at the feet of Jesus,” Pr Masih shared. “There are challenges, yes—but joy is part of the journey when we walk closely with Him.” His message encouraged members to stay hopeful and open to the transformative power of Christ in their lives.
Active Participation and Testimonies
In a practical exercise, Dr de Waal invited attendees to split into small groups to explore the new conversation guides. This interactive session allowed members to experience first-hand how the material could spark meaningful dialogue and spiritual growth in their own communities.
The day also included a time of testimonies, where individuals shared personal stories of how the Holy Spirit had guided and shaped their lives. These accounts served as a powerful reminder of God’s active presence and the importance of sharing faith within the church family.
Looking Ahead
The Discipleship Training event at Dunblane Hilton Hydro marked a pivotal moment for the Scottish Mission. With renewed vision and practical tools in hand, members left the event encouraged, equipped, and inspired to take their next steps in the disciple-making journey.
As Adventist churches across Scotland begin to implement the conversation guides and build discipleship communities, the ripple effect of this training is expected to foster a culture of intentional spiritual growth for years to come.
The Scottish Mission’s landmark Discipleship Training event at Dunblane Hilton Hydro brought together church leaders and members from across the region for a day of inspiration, practical training, and the launch of a new three-part discipleship guide series, equipping participants to build vibrant, intentional disciple-making communities.
The scenic Dunblane Hilton Hydro transformed into a centre of inspiration and learning on Saturday 21st June as Personal Ministries leaders, Elders and church members passionate about discipleship from across the Scottish Mission gathered for a landmark Discipleship Training event. Organised by the Trans-European Division and the Scottish Mission of Seventh-day Adventists, the one-day training brought together members from every district for a time of spiritual growth, hands-on engagement, and vision casting for the future of disciple-making within the church.
Led by Dr Kayle de Waal, Director of Disciple-Making for the Trans-European Division, alongside Pr Jimmy Botha, President of the Scottish Mission, and Pr Wil Masih, Personal Ministries Sponsor, the event aimed to deepen the understanding and practice of discipleship among local church members.
A Fresh Approach to Discipleship
Central to the event was the introduction of a new discipleship resource—a three-part conversation guide series titled Leading Disciples, Growing Disciples, and Making Disciples. Developed to support small group study and mentorship, the guides are part of a wider initiative to establish a structured Discipleship Support System within every local church in the Scottish Mission. The motto for each conversation guide is “Inspiring and equipping a movement of disciple-makers to the fourth generation.” (2 Timothy 1:5-8; 2:2)
“Our aim is not just to talk about discipleship but to live it,” said Dr de Waal. “These guides are designed to equip members to be intentional in their spiritual journey and to nurture others along the way. Discipleship is a lifestyle, not a programme.”
Dr de Waal outlined a four-tier support system to ensure sustainable implementation, inviting and encouraging every church to embrace the model and commit to growing in their disciple-making capabilities.
Discipleship as Apprenticeship
Bringing a personal touch to the concept of discipleship, Pr Jimmy Botha shared a moving reflection from his time as an apprentice in the South African Air Force. Drawing parallels between learning a trade and following Jesus, Pr Botha remarked, “Being a disciple is like being an apprentice under Jesus—up close, personal, and transformational.”
He emphasised that discipleship is more than knowledge—it is relational and deeply formative. His message underscored the importance of learning by doing, and of mentoring others as a core part of Christian life.
Discovering Joy on the Journey
In a heartfelt message, Pr Wil Masih explored the emotional and spiritual rewards of discipleship. Using the story of Jairus from the Gospels, he illustrated how faith and perseverance in the face of adversity can lead to unexpected moments of joy.
“Discipleship begins at the feet of Jesus,” Pr Masih shared. “There are challenges, yes—but joy is part of the journey when we walk closely with Him.” His message encouraged members to stay hopeful and open to the transformative power of Christ in their lives.
Active Participation and Testimonies
In a practical exercise, Dr de Waal invited attendees to split into small groups to explore the new conversation guides. This interactive session allowed members to experience first-hand how the material could spark meaningful dialogue and spiritual growth in their own communities.
The day also included a time of testimonies, where individuals shared personal stories of how the Holy Spirit had guided and shaped their lives. These accounts served as a powerful reminder of God’s active presence and the importance of sharing faith within the church family.
Looking Ahead
The Discipleship Training event at Dunblane Hilton Hydro marked a pivotal moment for the Scottish Mission. With renewed vision and practical tools in hand, members left the event encouraged, equipped, and inspired to take their next steps in the disciple-making journey.
As Adventist churches across Scotland begin to implement the conversation guides and build discipleship communities, the ripple effect of this training is expected to foster a culture of intentional spiritual growth for years to come.
