Chapter 7: Disciple Someone

Hello readers! (I’m glad to address all 5 of you!) I thought you might enjoy this little preview of my upcoming book, “Battle Plan: How regular Christians can engage in the culture war in a Biblical way”. (I’m still accepting title recommendations, btw.) If you’re interested in becoming part of my launch team, please reach out. I’m getting excited as the chapters get finished.

This chapter was just finished today. Now, it’s not gone to the editor yet, but I felt it to be worthwhile idea to remind us that discipleship is vital, even commanded, in our Christian walk.

Enjoy!

More than Evangelism

Discipling is a lost art. Or should I say a lost ministry? Let’s go with: “How to disciple others and its importance has been largely neglected by the body of Christ.” But this can be an effective means of making change in the society, one life at a time.

The concept of “discipling” someone is as old as the “Great Commission.” When Jesus told his followers “Go ye therefore, and teach all nations…” (Matt. 28:19a) the word he uses, which is translated “teach” in English, is the Greek word mathēteuō. This word is means “to become a pupil; to enroll as a scholar; to disciple.” (Strong’s Greek Definitions, #3100)

So Jesus is really saying to his followers “Go ye therefore, and disciple all nations…” which is a process much different than evangelism. He is commissioning us to make disciples, not just converts. He didn’t say “Go ye therefore, and make converts to this religion I am beginning today…” or something like “Go ye and witness to everyone…” He told us to make disciples. It was a command, not a suggestions if we feel we are holy enough.

What is a Disciple?

So then, what does that mean? How does one get “discipled”? How do I begin this process for myself or with someone else?

If you’re already pretty clear on the concept of discipling others, then maybe you can skip down to the section on getting inspired to actually do discipleship. But if this idea is new to you I’m going to give you some of the basics. (I’m sure you can find a wealth of information either online or in books. Just search for “Discipleship” at a local Christian book store.)

Generically a disciple is “A learner; a scholar; one who receives or professes to receive instruction from another; as the disciples of Plato. A follower; an adherent to the doctrines of another.” (Webster’s, 1828) In a Christian context, that means someone that adheres to and follows the doctrines of Christ. It’s more than just someone that knows about Jesus, or even a Believer, but a follower of “the Way”.

Even Jesus made a distinction between Believers and Disciples in John 8. In verses 31 – 32 Jesus said to “those Jews which believed on him” (emphasis mine) that there was a condition they had to fulfill to become his disciples. That condition was to “continue in [his] word”. In that state they would truly be his disciples and they would “know the truth, and the truth shall make [them] free.”

So someone that applies the teachings of Jesus to his/her life is a disciple. Someone that continues (read abides) in his Word.

Multiplying Disciples

So then the concept of “Discipling” others is to help them become followers of Christ. To guide them into applying Scripture to their daily walk. This is a challenging yet rewarding endeavor. But how can we do it? What does it look like for my life?

How did Jesus disciple people? Well, he asked them to follow him, to come along with him in his life. That’s the start. Then he just lived life with those people, and taught as he lived.

Sometimes he had certain things he planned to teach them. Specific time set aside for instruction. At other times there were circumstances in life of which Jesus would take advantage. Both are important.

I believe if we study how Jesus taught his followers we will find great wisdom in trying to impact the lives of those around us that are hungry for some mentorship and guidance. Invite someone over for dinner. Have lunch regularly during the work week. Do life together. And make Jesus the cornerstone of your relationship.

This makes a difference, in the long run, for our nation and society as a whole. If you’ve been putting it off cause you didn’t know how to do it you should read the Gospels a few times, or get a good book on discipleship, or ask your pastor. (If he’s one of the “good ones”.)

Get in there and ask God to bring you a disciple.

It could be that you already tuck your disciples into bed at night and read them stories and take them to soccer practice. (i.e. your children.) Built in discipleship right there, bro. Don’t overlook them when you are considering how you can make a difference.

Honestly, those children are your lowest hanging fruit. Make sure you invest in their discipleship.