Train Like Jesus: The Simple Process for Multiplying Spiritual Leaders

Have you ever felt overwhelmed by the need for more leaders in your church, ministry, or small group? You’re not alone. Jesus faced this very challenge—and gave us a simple, reproducible process to multiply leaders who make a real difference.

In Lesson 2 of Training Radical Leaders, we uncover how Jesus developed ordinary people into world-changing leaders. His method is not complicated, but it is powerful—and you can start using it today.

Why Leadership Training Often Fails

Many churches and groups struggle to develop new leaders. The most common reasons? Current leaders become overwhelmed, followers expect them to do everything, and potential leaders don’t know how to take the next step. Burnout is common. Momentum stalls.

But Jesus offers a different way. He trained leaders by focusing on progress, problems, planning, practice, and prayer. When we follow His model, leadership development becomes natural and effective.

The Five Steps of Jesus’ Leadership Training

Let’s explore the steps Jesus used to grow His disciples into leaders:

1. Progress – Celebrate Growth
Jesus asked His disciples about the progress they made in their mission. Likewise, take time to recognize what God is doing in your life and the lives of those you lead. Celebrate wins, even the small ones, and thank God for His faithfulness.

2. Problems – Address Challenges Honestly
Jesus created a safe space for His followers to share their struggles and mistakes. In your group, invite honest discussion about what’s not working. Share stories, ask questions, and look for root causes together. Growth happens when we face our challenges with grace.

3. Planning – Set Simple, Faith-Filled Goals
Jesus always pointed His disciples forward. After hearing about their progress and problems, He helped them make a clear, spiritual plan for what to do next. Ask: What is one thing we can do differently this month? Keep it simple and focused on God’s mission.

4. Practice – Create Space to Learn by Doing
Jesus let His disciples try ministry tasks themselves—even before they felt ready. Real change comes not just from hearing, but from practicing. Give your team opportunities to apply what they’re learning in a “safe place,” make mistakes, and gain confidence.

5. Prayer – Rely on God’s Power
Jesus prayed for His followers—especially when they faced difficulties. Prayer isn’t a ritual; it’s the source of strength and wisdom for leaders. Spend time praying for each person’s growth, plans, and unique calling.

A Tool for Multiplication: The “Training Tree”

Jesus didn’t try to do everything Himself. He invested deeply in a few people who then invested in others. Lancaster teaches a simple tool called the Training Tree—a visual way to map out who you’re training and who they’re training in turn. This helps you stay intentional about multiplication, not just maintenance.

Your Next Step: Train Like Jesus

You don’t have to be a leadership expert to follow Jesus’ model. Start your next meeting with these five steps. Ask about progress, listen for problems, plan a next step, create a safe space for practice, and pray together.

Remember: The goal is not just passing on information but seeing lives transformed—just like Jesus did.

Ready to put Jesus’ process into practice?

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