What motivated you to become followers of Jesus?

Werner: Growing up, I had a deep desire to have a relationship with God and try to live it out as best as I knew how. Lize (my wife) and her family had been family friends for all of my life. I heard she got involved in an “interesting” church and got baptised. I went to check up on her as I had some concerns about what exactly she became a part of. She asked me some very thought-provoking questions about what it mean to be a Christian according to the Bible. I wasn’t able to answer her and therefore started studying the Bible. It was crystal clear to me that I was in no way a follower of Jesus and that life needed some radical change. I got baptised six weeks later in January 1993.

Lize: I grew up in a “non-practising” Christian home. I lived for myself and the world. I therefore felt a deep uneasiness with saying I'm a Christian. During my first year as a campus student, I started praying and begging God to help me find Him. After one particular emotional Sunday night crying out to God, I got up the Monday morning, went to campus and was invited by a girl to study the scriptures and get to know God! I obviously said yes and got baptised two weeks later.

What do I love about being a disciple?

Werner: Having a relationship with the Creator of the universe. Having him guide my life and empower me to be formed into his image. Along with so many others, be a part of his plan (the renewal of our world).

 Lize: I cannot imagine what my life, marriage, and relationships would have been like without God. He indeed does save me from myself. I am humbled and blown away that after 30 years, He still continues to refine my character. I'm incredibly grateful that I can spend time in His Word to renew my mind. He enables me to overcome my inner demons and help others along the way.

How old is the church in Cape Town, and what is their strength?

The church is 30 years old. It's a wonderfully diverse group of people who love each other deeply. The disciples take ownership for us "being the church." The congregation has a highly generous spirit towards giving and service.

Which person in the Bible do you relate to the most?

Werner: David is definitely someone I would like to emulate! I desire the kind of heart that can say, "The Lord is my shepherd. I lack nothing!"

Lize: I am drawn to the "sinful woman" in Luke 7 due to her heart. I always feel challenged and inspired by her crystal clear understanding of her sin before God. She understood that she was forgiven of much, which enabled her to love much.

What does your family do for fun?

We love going away as a family, picnics on the beach, sunsets, visiting Hermanus and Yzerfontein, and watching different TV series together.

Why should others visit Cape Town?

We live in such a beautiful city with the ocean, mountains and vineyards. The Cape Town disciples are a hospitable, fun and adventurous bunch of people. We love connecting with other disciples across the world and learning from their experiences and relationship with God.