The CDI Heritage
Dr. Bill Piper founded this organization as “The Rod of God Ministries” in 1981 as an extension of his personal evangelistic ministry. In addition to several books, Dr. Piper authored the first discipleship course, Great Doctrines of the Bible, in response to a request for discipleship materials for new believers from a group of pastors in Nigeria.
The name of the organization was changed to “ROGMA International” in 1987. Under Dr. Piper’s leadership as president until 1998, student enrollment increased annually, the ministry expanded to other countries/languages and more courses were added. Over time, thousands of students professed faith in Jesus Christ and were discipled in the Christian faith.
Dr. Piper’s ministry as a preacher and author is a testimony to God’s grace in using a willing human instrument for the sake of the Gospel. Dr. Bill Piper’s son, Dr. John Piper, shared a 90-minute biographical message about his father and wrote a tribute book in his memory.
John VandenAkker, former missionary to Liberia, served as the second president of ROGMA International from 1998 to 2014. Paul Miller became the third president of ROGMA International in January, 2014. Under Paul’s leadership, ROGMA reorganized as Christian Discipleship International in 2015 with a renewed vision for global discipleship. In January 2016, CDI Director of Development Jason Little transitioned to CDI Executive Director and Paul Miller transitioned to Chairman of the Executive Board.
Currently, CDI ministers to thousands of people in dozens of countries. CDI has a growing network of highly qualified national partners around the world. Advancing under the updated mission, objectives and strategic plan, CDI makes an international impact with exciting future potential.