Disciple Making Works… for Good and Bad

A disciple is not above his teacher, nor a servant above his master. It is enough for a disciple that he be like his teacher, and a servant like his master. Matthew 10:24-25

Previously, we suggested there are two simple questions any Christian can use to assess their obedience to Christ and the effectiveness of their ministry:

1. Who is discipling you?
2. Who are you discipling?

The article seemed particularly challenging (I am only the pen); and more so for the shepherds of God’s people – pastors, preachers, teachers, etc. Being a member of this group, I was reminded: These two questions should be answerable by every Christian in every sphere of influence we have been given responsibility for as leaders.

A dear friend – and the man God has assigned to disciple me for the last 12-15 years – shared a perspective that may prove to be even more challenging. You may not like what you read. It may even offend some of you.

Generally, it’s best not to say such things at the beginning of an article. We are swimming against the current here simply because we do not want you surprised and distracted. This way, we can simply say it without a bunch of dancing around. I trust you will consider the truthfulness of it, and apply all that is worthwhile.

“Disciple Making Works”

That’s what my friend said, “Disciple making works.” He didn’t mean what I thought he meant. He went on to explain (this is the way I heard it), “Every leader is discipling everyone they lead into some understanding; and into the life that understanding prescribes. They are doing this whether they intend to, or not.

“We are either making disciples into some understanding about Christ and His Church, OR, we are making disciples to Jesus Christ Himself that He might make them as He is Himself. And it always works.”

2 Simple Questions

There are two simple questions any Christian can use to assess their obedience to Christ and the effectiveness of their ministry:

1. Who is discipling you?
2. Who are you discipling?

If you cannot answer the first question, you are likely not being discipled. Unless you are in their inner circle, this is not your pastor nor your Sunday School teacher. Making disciples requires relationship.

It is impossible to underestimate the impact a disciple maker can have on a person’s life (mentor is the secular term). Much of God’s grace flows down the channels of authority He has assigned for every Christian. This is not limited to teaching, counseling, etc. The life of Christ is miraculously transmitted through the disciple making relationship (e.g., faith, courage, and peace).

The Great Commission is God’s prescription for our participation in the advancement of His kingdom. Finding those that He has designated for our spiritual apprenticeship is vital to our inclusion in His story. Furthermore, it is impossible to make disciples without first being made.

Regrettably, making disciples has fallen out of favor in the church that resides here in America. Consequently, you may have to ask someone to disciple you. Before you do, ask God to identify that person. He loves talking with His children about such things.

Failure regarding our second question is a strong sign of spiritual disobedience. This is a hard judgment. It is also fair, grounded in truth, and offered in love.

The Synergy of Need – Extending Your Reach

When needs converge, there is great potential for synergy; and the advancement of God’s kingdom. Here is a great example.

Need One: You do not have time to reach your community (much less “all the nations”) with the Gospel. And Jesus came and spoke to them, saying, “All authority has been given to Me in heaven and on earth. Go therefore and make disciples of all the nations…” (Matthew 28:18-19). Time is the Pastor’s most precious commodity. Investing it wisely should be one of his chief concerns.

Need Two: The King needs more disciple makers. Then He said to His disciples, “The harvest truly is plentiful, but the laborers are few.” (Matthew 9:37). God has positioned Leaders in the Workplace, giving them authority and influence for the advancement of His kingdom.

Need Three: Disciple makers in the Workplace need a shepherd. But when He saw the multitudes, He was moved with compassion for them, because they were weary  and scattered, like sheep having no shepherd (Matthew 9:36). Workplace Leaders desire to make a difference for the kingdom, but they lack true discipleship.

If you are a Pastor, consider this: Of all the demographic groups in your fellowship, none has more potential for kingdom impact than the Workplace Leaders whom God has placed under your care. These individuals are in contact with hundreds of people every week. Why are they the only group without a focused ministry? Why are they the most neglected disciple makers in your congregation?

Mobilizing Workplace Leaders is not as hard as you might think. They are industrious self-starters. Most are process oriented problem solvers. God has positioned them, with heart desires for kingdom success.

The investment you make in the lives of Workplace Leaders will be multiplied 100 times over. The risks are negligible. The kingdom returns are exceedingly abundantly more than you can ask or think. I am here to help you get started.

If you are a Workplace Leader, consider this: God has given you influence and authority for the advancement of His kingdom. He may be calling you to ignite such a ministry in your fellowship. You will need your Pastor; and he may not know it. Warning: Do not try to give him this task, nor do it on your own. Instead, ask him to be your covering in it. Then go find the other Workplace Leaders God has called to join you. I am also here to help you get started.

Humbly yours and forever His,