Hull's Four Philosophical Assumptions

The first two points of Hull’s philosophy, in my opinion are foundational to the others and actually seem to reflect the ministries established in my local church. The first two assumptions center on establishing and then developing relationships as mandated by Jesus, in each of these two assumptions or philosophies, God considers people to be invaluable resources, but not His greatest asset. Before I continue, I agree with Hull’s four philosophical assumptions, as they greatly align with my own. Reviewing the passages in both Matthew and John, not only does God see people as being invaluable resources but perhaps, liabilities as well. In John, God calls us as branches to abide in the true vine, being Jesus Christ in order to bear fruit.
Examining my own philosophies concerning leadership, the assumptions of Hull, the categories of ministries in my church, along with the concepts of discipleship and disciple making, God’s greatest asset is how He empowers others, thus the purpose of discipleship and disciple making. Jesus primary purpose aside from redemption was to build God’s Kingdom. Jesus took an ordinary group of 12 and empowered them to do God’s work, produce fruit, and accomplish the goals and objectives of God’s Kingdom. Figuring the church into this philosophy of empowerment, I turn my attention to Ephesians 4:11-12. Ephesians 4:11, provides us with the divisions and offices of the church, useful for the work of ministry and building the body of the church and unity. In viewing my own church’s ministries, divisions exist, but they are more commonly known as groups or teams. The groups and teams usually provide the incentive of an overflowing life with Christ. In the case of Jesus, His motivation to the apostles was eternal life and changing the world. Just like Jesus, the groups, teams, and ministries of my church, provide the tools, resources, and encouragement to others to fulfill the command of go and make disciples of all