WHAT IS PRIME?

PRIME is a discipleship model designed to present ageless Biblical truths in a timely and contemporary format. It focuses squarely on the question, “What does a fully developed follower of Jesus look like?”

PRIME addresses five key areas of our growth as disciples of Jesus: 

  1. Prayer (intimacy with God, worship, abiding, miracles)

  2. Relationships (intimacy with people, fellowship, community, friendship)

  3. Instruction (scriptural knowledge, beliefs, doctrines, apologetics) 

  4. Maturity (Christ-like character, virtues, fruit of the Spirit)

  5. Engagement (giving our lives away in ministry to others)

WHEN AND WHERE IS PRIME?

PRIME is being offered in two different formats for the Winter 2024 semester (there is no PRIME Introduction offered this semester):

  1. PRIME for Parents (on Zoom) January 11th - 25th on Thursday evenings from 8:45 - 9:15 pm.

  2. PRIME 101 Classes in person (Prayer, Maturity, and Engagement) will be offered from February 21st - March 27th on Wednesdays from 7:00 - 8:30 PM at MCC.

HOW DO I REGISTER FOR PRIME?

Register now (click on the name of the class) for PRIME FOR PARENTS, PRAYER 101, MATURITY 101, and ENGAGEMENT 101 for the Winter 2024 semester. We recommend that everyone take PRIME Bootcamp or PRIME Discipleship Introduction (when offered) first and then you are welcome to register for any of the other three classes, space permitting.

Please note, the cost of registration is $15 per person.

WHAT IS THE GOAL OF PRIME?

The goal of PRIME is not just to teach information. Ezra 7:10 reminds us that: “…Ezra had determined to study and obey the Law of the Lord and to teach those decrees and regulations to the people of Israel.” PRIME is based on the Ezra 7:10 principle of studying, obeying, and teaching others the things we learn.

WHAT SHOULD I EXPECT WHEN I ATTEND PRIME?

PRIME will take place in a group setting, and depending on the size of the group, the goal will be to have more personal discussions throughout our time together. Our interactions will be aimed at the heart, not just the head. The goal is not to teach people mere information. The goal is to create an environment where people encounter the Lord and are transformed by the power of the Holy Spirit, through God’s unchanging Word, in the context of a community of believers, who can encourage one another during that transformational process.

WHY IS MCC PURSUING THIS TYPE OF DISCIPLESHIP AND LEADERSHIP DEVELOPMENT?

There are many reasons to pursue an intentional structure for discipleship and leadership development within the local body.  Some of those reasons include:

  • We intentionally want to create a culture that reflects the principles of the Word of God. This process allows us to share our heart, and convictions based on God’s Word.

  • Many believers lack a basic understanding of the fundamentals of the Christian faith, which leads to a weaker foundation. Our desire is to help believers establish and strengthen their foundations through inspired Biblical teaching.

  • Discipleship and leadership development do not happen overnight. Each of us must be committed to the process of studying the Bible. PRIME will aim to facilitate that process.

  • The typical strategy of the American church to simply attend church on Sundays has not proven to be the most effective model for growth and leadership development within local churches. We intentionality desire to help believers mature in their faith, develop as leaders, and in turn bless those around them.

  • Our goal is to allow some of our existing leaders to teach PRIME, but also develop new leaders, so they body may attain the full measure of maturity in God.

  • We desire to put ministry in the hands of our people, and allow them to lead, out as we continue to reach more people in our city. This is a practical way to equip the saints for the work of ministry (Ephesians 4:11-12, 2 Timothy 2:1-2, 1 Peter 2:9, Matthew 28:18-20).

WHY PARTICIPATE IN PRIME?

Some of the benefits of participating in PRIME include developing a love for the Word of God and obeying the principles we study. Developing intimacy with God and activating your identity as a follower of Jesus Christ. Forming and developing spiritual friendships, growing in wisdom, and gaining knowledge.

You will experience discipleship in a community setting, and encounter God personally.

Finally, PRIME will also allow our MCC church leaders to develop leaders within the body. Consistent participation is greatly valued and recognized!