Welcome to NEXT

Here at Freedom we believe that learning to follow Christ is a step-by-step, day-by-day journey that leads our lives being transformed by Christ. It’s intentional. It’s personal. It’s done in community with other believers. It’s amazing.

So… what’s next?

On this page you’re going to find all kinds of resources that will help you answer the question, “What’s next?” Are you trying to discover who Jesus is and what it means to follow Him? Are you new to your belief in Christ and wonder how to get started in building a relationship with Him? Are you looking to challenge your faith and grow deeper in your discipleship?

This is your home for finding what’s next.

Life Transformation Courses

This is a great place to start: the four courses in our Life Transformation series. Find them here.

  • First Steps

  • Life in the Spirit

  • Learning to Serve

  • Learning to Lead

NEXT Training

Here is our library of resources that is always growing. Find studies and training that will keep challenging your faith. Take your next step here.

NEXT Podcast
NEXT Courses
NEXT Resources
NEXT Leadership Training

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Connect & Train In Person

We recommend that you don’t journey alone. We need to learn from each other. We need to challenge each other. We need to be real with each other.

These are opportunities to do what’s next in community with others.

Groups (for adults)
Men & Women of Freedom
Freedom Youth
Freedom Young Adults
Kids Ministry

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4 Courses, 1st Steps

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The four core courses of the Life Transformation series are designed to enable a new believer to get rooted in the foundations of their faith, to live in the Holy Spirit, to serve in Christ’s kingdom and to lead others to do the same. Each course has eight lessons and a leader’s guide with discussion questions ideal for one on one and small group formats.

First Steps for new believers is available in quality print form. Life in the Spirit, Learning to Serve and Learning to Lead are available online. Other training courses and Bible studies are available on our NEXT Training page.

These resources are free for you to use and we hope that they will encourage you and will help you to train others how to live a fully transformed life for Jesus every day.

Click on the image of any book to add it to your cart.

FIRST STEPS

New believers will be introduced to the fundamentals of Christian living based on key Bible references.  Also a great refresher for long-time Christians as well as an easy to use discipleship tool.

Take this course in a Group. Learn more here.

Available in PDF (English and Spanish) and PAPERBACK. Click the image to add to your cart and download or have it shipped.

LIFE IN THE SPIRIT

This study takes a close look at the person and work of the Holy Spirit in the life of the Christian. New and older Christians will be encouraged by God's provision to live life to the full.

Take this course in a Group. Learn more here.

Available in PDF. Click the image to add to your cart and download.

LEARNING TO SERVE

This course explores the life of the Christian in ministry.  The concepts of servanthood and stewardship are investigated, along with the ministry gifts and potential. 

Take this course on the LearnDash platform or as part of Impact Leadership Training. Ask us how!

Available in PDF. Click the image to add to your cart and download.

eBooks - Learning to Serve
Learning to Serve (PDF Edition)
Learning to Serve (PDF Edition)

LEARNING TO LEAD

Here we build on the previous courses to cultivate Christian leadership.  The dynamics of maturity, calling and influence are considered within the context of team building for effective ministry. 

Take this course on the LearnDash platform or as part of Impact Leadership Training. Ask us how!

Available in PDF. Click the image to add to your cart and download.

eBooks - Learning to Lead
Learning to Lead (PDF Edition)
Learning to Lead (PDF Edition)

Go Deeper. Every Day.

Download a course, grab a resource or follow along online.

Click on the image of any course to add it to your cart.

Need a hard copy? Click here to let us know!

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Produce: Developing the Fruit of the Spirit
Produce: Developing the Fruit of the Spirit

ALSO AVAILABLE AS AN ONLINE COURSE (via LearnDash)

Your goal is to become more like Jesus in the way you think and act. Jesus sets the standard for you to aspire to. So, how can you grow more Christ-like each day? It requires more than your determined effort, which is necessary. You need supernatural assistance. Look at the nine attributes listed in Galatians 5:22,23. The apostle Paul calls these the fruit of the Spirit. The Spirit is ready to grow this spiritual fruit and maximize it in you as you allow him to fill you with his presence and do his work in you daily.

Written by Del Wells

The Disciple of Jesus
The Disciple of Jesus

When you choose to follow Jesus by faith, you begin a brand-new way of living. Jesus is now the centre of absolutely everything instead of you or anything else. You start a life-long journey of studying Jesus to get to know him and learn to do things his way. You assume the role of Jesus’ disciple to learn from his example and words how to live each day as he would in your place. This is your full-time endeavour that will transform you to experience life to the full.

This course is designed to identify 10 Essentials that constitute what a disciple of Jesus looks like. Each one is taken from an occasion Jesus when spoke directly about the requirements to be a legitimate follower of him. These elements are deep and broad enough to encompass the many components taught in the New Testament about being a fully—formed believer.

Written by Del Wells

Everything You Need: A Study of 2 Peter 1:3-11
Everything You Need: A Study of 2 Peter 1:3-11

EXPERIENCE GOD’S ABUNDANCE BY KNOWING HIM

Everything you need for living each day and for being godly is available to you if you want it enough to access it. Every desire and longing you have can be satisfied by intentionally growing your relationship with God daily. Anything less than a God-first focus will leave you wanting and unsatisfied spiritually and emotionally.

If you are unfamiliar with the teaching of 2 Peter 1:3-11, you will be presented with a clear overview of how to make the most of your Christian life. Take the time to read, study and memorize these verses. They will become foundational for building your faith in God and maintaining a context for every facet of your daily life.

Written by Del Wells

Commands of Christ
Commands of Christ

In First Steps (see Life Transformation courses) we introduce the importance of learning to teach others the commandments of Christ. The purpose of this study is to look at the Commands of Christ in a more specific and deeper way. The student will have a base to work from to do further exploration of each command. It would be beneficial to dig deeper into the background, meaning, implications and practical applications of each command both for personal growth and for teaching others.

Written by Del Wells

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Get Secure: A Study of Ephesians

This study of the book of Ephesians is a resource to help you facilitate your spiritual growth by increasing your knowledge of who God is, who you are, and what your achievable potential is to live well and be godly. ‘Get Secure’ was chosen as the title of this study for a couple of reasons. First, ‘Get’ invites you to pursue and procure what God has already made available to you as a Jesus follower. Second, ‘Secure’ is what your position as a believer is and acting on that reality can dramatically change the way you see yourself being able to live your life in Christ confidently.

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Pentecostal Essentials

Pentecostal Essentials is a series of articles about being Pentecostal in the 21st Century. This study explores 30 traits of Spirit-filled disciples of Christ living and serving in community listed in the Table of Contents. We look at where Pentecostals came from, who we are today, and how our uniqueness positions us well for effective service in our local communities and world at large. This course focuses on numerous foundational aspects of Pentecostalism that have developed over the past 100 plus years that facilitate spiritual growth and kingdom expansion.

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Explaining The Trinity

Discovering who God is and developing a relationship with him is the foundational part of experiencing daily life transformation. The Bible is your ultimate source for doing that. God reveals himself throughout his Word and teaches you how to get to know him deeply. This study will introduce you to the uniqueness of God referred to as the Trinity, a term you will not find in the Bible, but a concept that is clearly presented in it. While the Trinity remains a mystery only fully understood by God, there is much evidence that is revealed and can be grasped by serious students of Scripture.

Get Joyful (Philippians)
Get Joyful (Philippians)

Paul’s letter to the Philippians is a joyful expression of living to the full as a believer in Christ. It is written to the local church family, underscoring the benefits of participating in body life and ministry to maximize one’s daily life transformation. You learn a lot by studying Paul’s approach for managing the ups and downs of living with joy. He knows that in Christ you have everything needed to thrive as Jesus’ follower. Life is often not fair or easy but can be productive and enjoyable by aligning yourself with God’s plan. Get Joyful has six lessons with questions throughout and a life application section at the conclusion of each one. You will be inspired to rejoice in the Lord as you unpack Paul’s insights for making the most of every situation you go through.

Get Ethical (The Ten Commandments)
Get Ethical (The Ten Commandments)

The Ten Commandments can teach you a lot about ethical living. When a believer makes it a priority to know, love, and serve God well, they learn to conduct themselves in a way that honours the Lord and shows respect for others. Christians can have a positive impact on the world around them by practicing godliness and influencing others to do likewise. Ethical living is transformational for individuals, groups, and societies as it changes the culture of selfish exploitation to one of loving respect and generosity to others. Get Ethical has seven lessons with questions throughout and a life application section at the conclusion of each one. This study will help you see how the intent and practicality of the Ten Commandments for Israel in the Old Testament are relevant for Christ followers today.

Get Faithful: A Study of 1 Thessalonians
Get Faithful: A Study of 1 Thessalonians

Paul writes his first letter to the Thessalonian church that he and his ministry team had established and moved on from. He wanted to return and see firsthand how they were doing but was not able to at the time. Paul heard good reports about these new believers growing in faith, love, unity, and service. He sent Timothy to visit them and confirmed the stories were true. This communique from Paul was sent to affirm his love and care for the young disciples and to encourage them to keep faithful to Christ and the gospel mission. The six lessons of Get Faithful examine Paul’s instructions for living as a full-time follower of Jesus with the Holy Spirit’s enabling to build up your church family and influence the world for Christ.

The Lord's Prayer
The Lord's Prayer

Have you ever wondered about what prayer is and how to do it properly? Many people feel inadequate to pray confidently and consistently both in private and with others. The disciples of Jesus watched him closely every day and noticed that he spent regular quality time praying along with teaching, healing, and doing miracles. They approached Jesus and asked him to teach them to pray and the Lord’s Prayer was his response. This study examines the elements and pattern of prayer contained in this concise and simple communication with God. Working through the ten lessons will increase your understanding of your privilege and potential to stay connected to God in spirit for enjoying fellowship, offering thanks and praise, presenting requests, and receiving guidance and direction from the Lord. The Lord’s Prayer will become a framework for you to approach God with confident anticipation.

Get Courageous: A Study of Joshua
Get Courageous: A Study of Joshua

This study of the book of Joshua is designed to help you develop and practice courage in your faith in God. In the eight lessons, you will walk through the story of Joshua leading the Israelites to take possession of the Promised Land they had dreamed about for generations. You will see the miraculous way God works on behalf of those who love, trust, and serve him. You will be inspired to obey God’s commands and follow his instructions and guidance in life and ministry. Through the fullness of the Holy Spirit, you will ‘get courageous’ to act with confidence by accessing the supernatural resources available to you in Christ.

Get Running
Get Running

This study is about being in the spiritual race to win. In the six lessons you will learn what the race is, who gets to run it, how to train effectively, and how to finish strong to win the prize. You do not have to an athlete to benefit from this course. As you work through the teaching and questions, you will be able to apply the principles to daily living for progressing in your spiritual growth and maturity. You will be introduced to physical training and running basics that parallel your spiritual race dynamics. You will be encouraged by understanding that with effort and God’s enabling, every believer can function at a high level spiritually regardless of their natural abilities.

Get Building: A Study of Nehemiah
Get Building: A Study of Nehemiah

This study examines the book of Nehemiah, the Old Testament leader who oversaw the rebuilding of the wall around Jerusalem so the exiled Jews could return to the city. In the twelve lessons you will see the influence a godly person can have by depending on the Lord for direction and provision. You will learn about your potential to move past your fears and overcome opposition of the enemy utilizing the Word, prayer, and enabling of the Holy Spirit. You will be encouraged to give your full attention to knowing and living out God’s plan for your life every day. You will be motivated to build a legacy of trusting God and serving him faithfully without giving up.

Get Ready: A Study of Revelation
Get Ready: A Study of Revelation

This study of Revelation is for those who want a simplified guide for reading and understanding the teaching contained in the book. The six lessons of Get Ready give you an overview and timeline of the events of the last days on earth and a glimpse of the eternal abode for believers and unbelievers. Jesus is the central figure of Revelation who communicates his plan for redeeming and recreating all things. You will get a look into the future and be motivated to be ready for what is coming next. God promises several blessings for anyone who reads and takes to heart what is written in the book. This study is a good start for those unfamiliar with Revelation and a useful refresher for those who are.

Welcome to the NEXT Discipleship Podcast

Our vision is to impact the world for Christ with how He’s is transforming us every day. On this podcast we’re taking next steps and learning how to be a followers of Jesus.
We’re glad you’re here. This is what’s next.

 

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Next Discipleship, 2 Peter, Del Wells, Episode 8, Chapter 7
NEXT Episode 8 : Everything You Need - Chapter 7
Next Discipleship, 2 Peter, Del Wells, Episode 8, Chapter 7
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Next Discipleship, 2 Peter, Del Wells, Episode 7, Chapter 6
NEXT Episode 7 : Everything You Need - Chapter 6
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Next Discipleship, 2 Peter, Del Wells, Episode 6, Chapter 5
NEXT Episode 6 : Everything You Need - Chapter 5
Next Discipleship, 2 Peter, Del Wells, Episode 6, Chapter 5
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Next Discipleship, 2 Peter, Del Wells, Episode 4, Chapter 3
NEXT Episode 4 : Everything You Need - Chapter 3
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Next Discipleship, 2 Peter, Del Wells, Episode 3, Chapter 2
NEXT Episode 3 : Everything You Need - Chapter 2
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NEXT Episode 5 : Everything You Need - Chapter 4
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Next Discipleship, 2 Peter, Del Wells, Episode 2
NEXT Episode 2: Everything You Need - Chapter 1
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Next Discipleship, 2 Peter, Del Wells, Episode 1
NEXT Episode 1: Everything You Need - Introduction
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Do You Know God?
by Del Wells

This article helps you answer this vitally important question. It covers these key sections:

  • Signs you don’t know God very well

  • How to get to know God more

  • Practices that will help you know God better

  • Signs you do know God well

For more on this topic, listen to Pastor Del’s message “What’s Next? Know God.”

“Do you know God? is the most important question you will ever have to answer. Your future life will be determined by whether or not you know God. Jesus is very clear on this point. “Now this is eternal life: that they may know you, the only true God, and Jesus Christ, whom you have sent.” (John 17:3).”
— Del Wells, Do You Know God

What is Next Leadership Training (NLT)?

We wanted to create a place to EQUIP, EMPOWER and CHALLENGE you in your discipleship life. Leadership is many things and shows up in many different ways. We’re tossing out the idea that leadership is “the people on the platform” or the “the people with the titles” and working from the famous John Maxwell assumption: LEADERSHIP IS INFLUENCE

Whoever you’re influencing - your family, coworkers, friends, church members - we want to do whatever we can to train you to make an impact in their lives for Christ.

You don’t need to have a position of leadership, be a certain type of person or feel like a leader. You just have to be willing to grow and be challenged to influence the world around you for Jesus.

FALL 2024

MANAGING ANXIETY: Yours and theirs

(from the Publisher)
You Can Learn to Handle the Onslaught of Internal and External Pressures

Does anxiety get in the way of your ability to be an effective leader? Is your inability to notice when you and those around you are anxious keeping you "stuck" in chronic unhealthy patterns? In Managing Leadership Anxiety, pastor and spiritual growth expert Steve Cuss offers powerful tools to help you move from being managed by anxiety to managing anxiety.

You'll develop the capacity to notice your anxiety and your group's anxiety. You will increase your sensitivity to the way groups develop systemic anxiety that keeps them trapped. Your personal self-awareness will increase as you learn how self gets in the way of identifying and addressing issues.

DETAILS

SCHEDULE

  • September 9: Video 1 - The 4 Spaces & Video 2 - The Nature of Chronic Anxiety

  • September 16: Video 3 - Dealing with Your Inner Critic, Video 4 - Theology of Anxiety

  • September 23: Video 5 - Universal Sources, Video 6 - Life Giving List

  • September 30: Video 7 - Differentiation, Video 8 - Putting it Into Practice

To join this session of NLT, REGISTER HERE.


SELF-DIRECTED LEADERSHIP STUDIES

Take yourself through any or all of these courses, articles and studies at your own pace. Let us know if you have any questions!

NEXT Courses (including The Disciple of Jesus, completed in NLT Winter 2022)

Life Transformation Courses (including Learning to Serve & Learning to Lead, completed in NLT Winter 2021 & Fall 2021)

Leaders With Substance (Study)

The Deacon’s Qualifications (Study)

The Overseer’s Qualifications (Study)

Frequently Asked Questions:

Sounds great but what’s the end game? Are you looking for new small group leaders or ushers or something?

  • Well, sure! But that’s not the endgame. NLT is focused on equipping you for wherever you are leading now and preparing you for wherever you might be called to lead in the future. If this training helps you to lead your family better - fantastic! If it gives you the confidence to step out and lead in a ministry - also great!

Who is behind NLT? Who will be doing the sessions?

  • Pastors Tracy is working together with the Freedom Staff to create and launch each session of NLT. We realized that having separate training for each ministry area at Freedom wasn’t the best use of our resources or your time. So NLT will be applicable and use real-life examples from every area of ministry to that it can be applied in whatever context you find yourself in.

I’m interested but I can’t commit right now. Can I join later? Will I be behind?

  • NLT is built so that every session can stand alone. However, we recommend that you do the course Learning to Serve as soon as possible. You can take that course on LearnDash whenever you have time or download it and complete it from our NEXT page in PDF format. After that, you can jump in (or out) whenever we start a new semester. While it would be ideal (though admittedly unrealistic for most) to have you in every session from now until we run out of things to talk about (aka when Jesus returns), you are not committing for more than one semester at a time. And when you can join us, you’ll never be behind.

I don’t have any theological training or qualifications for leadership. I don’t know if this is for me.

  • Not a problem. There is absolutely no expectation for participants to have any qualifications other than wanting to serve Jesus, grow in your discipleship, be open to learning, growing and building their leadership capacity. You got this.

What’s the time commitment?

  • Other than the dates and times listed above for our whole group sessions, you’ll need to find a couple of hours per week to go through the course material and have it completed ahead of the sessions. Easy!

I’m not techie. Doing everything digitally is intimidating for me. How much tech stuff will I need to figure out?

  • We often use Zoom for live sessions.

  • We are using LearnDash for our online course material.

  • We are HAPPY to walk you through any tech issues you may have. We can get you set up, test your connection, talk you through the online lessons - whatever you need. Just don’t let the tech stand in your way!

leader in training (LIT) program

If you are an emerging leader looking for practical training in servant leadership, we encourage you to consider the Leader in Training Program. Here you’ll find the LIT Program Outline and the application form.

Contact Pastor Tracy if you have any questions!