In this case, I'd have to say getting involved with this pre-launch might not have been the best choice for you.
First you say that you were convinced to join because you know your sponsor, which I'm assuming means you know him personally. Do you know how long he's been in business, whether or not he's been successful, and how much he'll be able to help you succeed?
It sounds like he's not providing much training and that you are not in a position to train your team. It doesn't matter how big your "line" is, or who is in your upline... if no one is producing, no one is succeeding. You and your team need a plan.
And what about the product? Have you had a chance to try it? Do you know enough about it to know that you will be able to wholeheartedly use and endorse it? Will there be sufficient production to fill the first orders? How is the pricing compared to similar products?
I think there's often many unknowns in a pre-launch that make it more risky than joining an established business. But others think that the potential benefit of getting in early is worth the risk. It's up to you to decide how much risk you're willing to take.
Of course all of that is not to say that you can't learn quickly and make a go of it. It's a great start that you recognize that you need some training and that you are looking for help.
I strongly recommend that you learn how to generate your own leads. My expertise is with the more traditional party plan type direct sales opportunities, but some of my material may be applicable. However, the person I would go to for training if I ever joined an MLM is Paul Cooley. Find him at
http://www.paulcooleymarketing.com