SDM SCHOOL OF MINISTRY: EQUIPPING HANDBOOK

SDM SCHOOL OF MINISTRY: EQUIPPING HANDBOOK

Within the SDM Framework

1. Introduction

The SDM School of Ministry (SOM) exists as the equipping arm of the Sunshine Destiny Ministries (SDM) Framework.

Its purpose is not to create ministries, but to equip believers to function effectively in the ministries God has already entrusted to them.

This handbook provides clarity on:

• Purpose
• Structure
• Expectations
• Training flow
• Outcomes

2. The SDM Framework Overview

The SDM Framework flows as follows:

Logo Platform → Leadership Positioning → Equipping → Releasing (Commissioning)

The School of Ministry operates specifically within the Equipping phase, serving as the bridge between:

• Calling and competence
• Position and readiness
• Potential and release

3. Purpose of the SDM School of Ministry

The SDM School of Ministry exists to:

• Equip saints for the work of ministry (Ephesians 4:11–12)
• Strengthen doctrinal understanding and spiritual maturity
• Develop ministry skills with character and accountability
• Prepare individuals for responsible commissioning
• Release trained ministers into their own God-given assignments

4. What the SDM School of Ministry Is — and Is Not

The School of Ministry IS:

• A structured equipping environment
• A place of teaching, impartation, and refinement
• A spiritual training ground
• A preparation pathway toward commissioning

The School of Ministry IS NOT:

• A replacement for the local church
• A title-conferring institution
• A platform for personal promotion
• A system to absorb or own individual ministries

5. Core Pillars of SDM Equipping

5.1 Spiritual Foundation & Alignment

• Understanding SDM Spiritual DNA
• Kingdom values and servant leadership
• Alignment in doctrine and vision
• Spiritual disciplines and walk with God

5.2 Doctrine & Word-Based Training

• Biblical foundations
• Sound doctrine
• Rightly dividing the Word
• Avoidance of extremes and error

“Be diligent to present yourself approved to God…”

— 2 Timothy 2:15

5.3 Character Formation

• Integrity before influence
• Faithfulness before visibility
• Accountability and submission to process
• Handling authority, correction, and responsibility

5.4 Ministry Skills Development

Training may include (based on calling):

• Teaching & preaching
• Prophetic ministry
• Pastoral care
• Intercession & prayer leadership
• Leadership & administration
• Marketplace ministry principles

5.5 Practical Mentorship & Exposure

• Supervised ministry practice
• Ministry observation
• Feedback and evaluation
• Gradual increase in responsibility

6. Structure of the SDM School of Ministry

The School of Ministry is progressive, not rushed.

Typical Flow:

• Foundation Phase
• Alignment & Doctrine Phase
• Ministry Skill Development Phase
• Practical Ministry Exposure Phase
• Readiness Assessment
• Recommendation for Releasing (Commissioning)

Progression is discernment-based, not time-based.

7. Expectations of Participants

All participants are expected to:

• Maintain humility and teachability
• Honour leadership and structure
• Walk in accountability
• Complete assigned training responsibly
• Respect diversity of callings
• Uphold SDM values and conduct

8. Leadership Responsibility in Equipping

Leaders within the SDM School of Ministry are responsible to:

• Teach truthfully and responsibly
• Equip without control
• Mentor without ownership
• Release without fear
• Model Christ-like leadership

9. Completion and Releasing (Commissioning)

Completion of SDM Equipping does not automatically result in commissioning.

Commissioning is based on:

• Spiritual maturity
• Doctrinal stability
• Character consistency
• Ministry readiness
• Discernment by leadership

“Set apart for Me Barnabas and Saul…”

— Acts 13:2–3

10. Key SDM Equipping Statement

• SDM Equipping sharpens ministers — it does not create them.
• SDM trains believers — it does not retain them.
• SDM releases individuals — it does not own their ministries.

11. Conclusion

The SDM School of Ministry stands as a bridge from calling to commissioning, ensuring that those who are released are:

• Grounded
• Mature
• Equipped
• Ready
• Faithful