Networking has become a common concept in our modern world.  It seems intuitive to people everywhere that we can do more together than we can do by ourselves.  More importantly, it’s a core Biblical principle.  (“One can put a thousand to flight, and two ten thousand.”)  There is an obvious synergy when people work together, and it’s especially true when Christians, empowered by the Holy Spirit, do so.  As a matter of fact, it’s a command!

In a Christian context, a People Specific Network is a group of individuals, churches and/or mission organizations that are focused on the same unreached people group.  They work together to initiate or facilitate the growth of the church among that people, with coordinated, spirit-led action as the result.

These networks may be field-based, in which case they are largely concerned with the activities of overseas workers (missionaries) and leaders of the emerging national church, if any.  Or the networks may be home-based, in which case they are mostly concerned with the activities of churches, ministries and individuals wanting to supplement the field work in a wise and effective way.  These groups are often engaged in building public awareness about the unreached group.  There are also a growing number of networks that are working to integrate field and home-based groups into one powerful force. 

There are more and more networks emerging that are not focused on one specific unreached people group. Several are focused on an entire region or nation advancing the cause of all the people groups if not also the networks within that region that are building their capacity to reach a specific people group. In addition, there a number of networks focused on specific aspects of reaching the lost and whose ministry blesses multiple regions and people groups. Examples would include those focused on specific evangelistic uses of the internet; those concerned with all aspects of ministry to refugees; networks of those using sports to reach out to the lost; etc.

To learn whether a network exists for the group that has captured your interest you can visit www.powerofconnecting.net.

There are specific challenges at every stage of building and/or sustaining an effective network that can cripple its effectiveness. However, there are some very helpful ways to deal with these challenges that not only help to overcome the hurdles, but also build strength into the network in the process.

We don’t claim to be the ultimate experts, but we do have some level of experience and it is a joy for us to come along side those who wish to either launch or strengthen a network focused on reaching those apart from Jesus. In addition, we are involved with a growing group of experienced network facilitators around the world who share what they are learning as they encounter the challenges on this road, and some of whom are gifted and available as coaches to others who may be newer to this calling.

To learn how to start a network focused on a specific people group, or to learn how your existing network can benefit from time with an Antioch Network coach, contact our network specialist,

Dr. Mark Snelling.

If one of our Antioch Network team members is not available, we are committed to putting you in touch with someone else who is. Some of our team also lead coaching clinics where leaders from a number of different networks come together in a group coaching setting.

Check out the latest at Dr. Mark's blog.