Discover your full potential in life

You’re not alone. Many of us navigate these questions daily, trying to discern how our faith can truly transform our lives. Welcome to Life Initiatives.

2024-2025: A discipleship and leadership course

What I have learned during my 50 years of Christian ministry (and how it might help you)

Discipleship and Leadership course for Christian Ministry. A once a week, 26 week course in Fridhemskyrkan, Bergsgatan 59, Stockholm. Introduction to the course based on child/siblings/parents concept or servant/co-worker/leader concept as growing into spiritual maturity.
The call to ministry is based on the life and calling of the prophet Jeremiah. I address the tension between the person Jeremiah and the prophet Jeremiah from Jeremiah Chapter 1. The tension and, at times, internal fight with - and consequences of a calling are part of our journey in following Jesus Christ and His mission for each one of us.
Today we will look at the importance of being rooted in the Scripture. When studying apostasy or backsliding in the Bible, we find that the most examples of this are found in the book of Judges. While pursuing cultural relevance in our approach to explain the Bible, we find that it is not the answer. Relevance is a tool; gospel proclamation is the goal. When we pursue relevance as the goal, it leads to a disastrous change in what church is all about!
The. continuation of lesson 1, with relevant and very practical applications relating to the Biblical principles and characteristics of an apostolic ministry. I derive these examples from the many years of ministry in the planting of churches and the start and forming of a church planting network.
We look in depth to the office / ministry of the apostle described in Ephesians chapter 4 as being part of the five-fold ministry given to the Church. We look at the role of an apostle and compare the calling and functions of an apostle with the other offices (prophet, evangelist, teacher and pastor/shepherd). I give arguments against those who believe that these five offices were not needed anymore after the Early Church.
In this lesson we have an introduction to the concept of the five fold ministry as found in Ephesians 4: 11 - 15 where the ministry offices of the apostle, prophet, evangelist, teacher and pastor are addressed. In the following lessons we will address the five mentioned separately in depth.
In this lesson we continue to address different aspects of evangelism and the Oikos principle. Sharing our need for being "lovers of strangers" and a welcoming community for all.

Find your potential

Faith is not confined to Sundays or the four walls of a church. Your faith is an integral part of who you are and wherever you are and should permeate every aspect of your life and decisions.

While many people nowadays compartmentalize their lives to try to handle the challenges and stress of life, we believe that God wants to meet us in the midst of our reality. Life Initiatives fosters insightful and sometimes provoking thoughts, provides practical resources, and shares inspiring stories that show this faith in that reality.

Live your faith

At Life Initiatives, we believe, in the words of Francis Schaeffer, that “there is no greater work of art than the life of a human being”. Although we may not all have the gift to write, paint or compose, each of us possesses the gift to be creative in our own lives.

In this spirit, our mission is to help you discover your potential, navigate your faith, and translate it into tangible, life-transforming actions. Through meaningful teachings, we guide you on this journey, helping you to craft the masterpiece that is your life.

Embrace leadership

At Life Initiatives, we focus on teaching you Biblical principles of leadership relevant to every single person. Those are rooted in a personal faith and applicable to daily life.

Are you navigating challenging family situations, mentoring people, advocating for change, creating entrepreneurial initiatives, or leading a church? These principles can strengthen and guide you. Being proactive and understanding that we are all called to lead in different ways is empowering! Realize that the whole of creation is based on the principle of multiplication.

About John van Dinther

John van Dinther has been in ministry for close to 50 years as a voluntary leader, church planter, pastor, teacher, and entrepreneur.

Most of his ministry has been in multi-cultural and inter-cultural contexts. He has traveled and ministered extensively throughout the world and has a special passion to help people grow in discipleship and leadership. 

About John van Dinther

John van Dinther has been in ministry for close to 50 years as a voluntary leader, church planter, pastor, teacher, and entrepreneur.

Most of his ministry has been in multi-cultural and inter-cultural contexts. He has traveled and ministered extensively throughout the world and has a special passion to help people grow in discipleship and leadership.

Explore our latest videos

In my latest video update from Brodetske, I share what's been going on in the last few days. This past week, we had the privilege of organising a camp for nearly 70 children, ages 6-12, hosted by New Life Brodetske with the help of dedicated volunteers. Watch the video for more stories and updates.
Welcome to our latest update from Brodetske, Ukraine! After a late-night arrival, we dedicated the Angels Park to honor seven men from the village who gave their lives defending Ukraine. Representing our donors, I joined local leaders in this touching ceremony. Watch the video to see these memorable moments and more. Thank you for your support!
Dozens of people have helped to provide for 200 food bags that have been given to many elderly, handicapped people and single parent households and larger families in Brodestkeye in the Ukraine. We delivered 42 at people’s homes who were not able to leave their homes and 150 at a special meeting. Thanks for helping out!
In my latest video update from Brodetske, I share what's been going on in the last few days. This past week, we had the privilege of organising a camp for nearly 70 children, ages 6-12, hosted by New Life Brodetske with the help of dedicated volunteers. Watch the video for more stories and updates.
Welcome to our latest update from Brodetske, Ukraine! After a late-night arrival, we dedicated the Angels Park to honor seven men from the village who gave their lives defending Ukraine. Representing our donors, I joined local leaders in this touching ceremony. Watch the video to see these memorable moments and more. Thank you for your support!
Dozens of people have helped to provide for 200 food bags that have been given to many elderly, handicapped people and single parent households and larger families in Brodestkeye in the Ukraine. We delivered 42 at people’s homes who were not able to leave their homes and 150 at a special meeting. Thanks for helping out!
Thinking about our mortality as I am visiting Ukraine in the light of a war going on and meeting so many people who are victims of this horrendous war. This video connects to the words of Job 14: 1-2 “Mortals, … they spring up like flowers and wither away; like fleeting shadows, they do not endure.” The fragility of life and the importance to make your life count are addressed.

Testimonials

Transform your everyday

Sign up for life-changing insights, directly to your inbox.