From the beginning of my tenure at First Family Church I knew I was interested in developing a "long tail" from a teaching and discipleship perspective. One of the first sites I created in August 2010 was "Growing At First Family" (www.ffcgrow.com). This is the About page from this first site. You will see various themes that developed over the years: ### Principles of Personal Discipleship - Life is a journey, and the value is in the everyday experiences of life. - Discipleship is rooted in Psalm 1:3, which compares the man of God to a tree planted by streams of water that yields its fruit in its season and its leaf does not wither. - Real growth requires deep roots and time to mature. ![[adultminbanner_thumb.jpg]] At First Family Church, our mission is to “Develop devoted followers of Jesus Christ in people groups around the world who celebrate, grow, and serve!” The Equipping & Adult Ministries are an integrated part of helping men and women fulfill this mission in their lives and become the productive saints God has called us to be. The philosophy of ministry that guides discipleship at FFC is comparable to the life of a tree. Psalm 1:3 compares one rooted in the Word of God to a tree “firmly planted by streams of water, which yields its fruit in its season and its leaf does not wither; and in whatever he does, he prospers.” Giant Oaks do not grow too their strength and beauty over night; it takes a generation of growth. Likewise, spiritual growth is a life-long pursuit. Whether you find yourself early in life or a seasoned believer with white hair, God desires for us to know Him and glorify His Son. How we bring glory to God is outlined in John 15: > Abide in Me, and I in you. As the branch cannot bear fruit of itself unless it abides in the vine, so neither can you unless you abide in Me. I am the vine, you are the branches; he who abides in Me and I in him, he bears much fruit, for apart from Me you can do nothing. If anyone does not abide in Me, he is thrown away as a branch and dries up; and they gather them, and cast them into the fire and they are burned. If you abide in Me, and My words abide in you, ask whatever you wish, and it will be done for you. My Father is glorified by this, that you bear much fruit, and so prove to be My disciples. There is no easy path to Spiritual maturity. Growth takes discipline and a desire to learn coupled with the willingness to allow the Holy Spirit to work in our lives. At First Family Church, we are here to help you in the journey. Through the various ministries of FFC, you will find companions for your trip, a road map to guide you, and a compass to help you stay on target. And remember, the joy is in the journey! Take time to look around and see what opportunities are available, then get on board for the trip of a lifetime!