As I finish my weekly checklist of Christian activities, I often wonder if any of it made me look more like Jesus. I connect with a small group, serve with a ministry team, attend a Sunday service, and maintain personal devotion time – all of this helps me learn and grow, but I sense the need for a comprehensive plan whereby I, and others around me, become better disciples of Jesus. It kind of feels like church structures are hoping that discipleship just happens on its own somewhere in the immersion of church activities.
We need a plan. We have to do more than hope discipleship happens. No commission from Jesus was more clear than to make disciples. Discipleship is the most fundamental unit of the Kingdom of Jesus – if we cannot reproduce a disciple, we cannot do anything else for the Kingdom. With a plethora of activities and the absence of planning, I fear our lives will do little more than wander in the direction of Jesus, never reaching the destination he intends.
Over the course of this week, I will post a daily blog on well known discipleship models. I invite you to explore, evaluate, and recreate these models by posting your comments as we work together toward a discipleship plan for our churches. I recommend subscribing to email updates to stay up on the latest posts.
Here are a few overarching questions/observations for you to comment on and get us started.
- Do we need a Model? It sounds rather holy when people say that all we need is Jesus, all we need is love, or all we need is the Bible. However, I believe that stewardship of the resources and goals Jesus has proscribed to us requires an intentional plan, and therefore in all probability, a structure/model to maintain that intentionality.
- Can one Model work for Everyone? In other words, should a church focus their efforts on one discipleship plan or an open a buffet line of options? I’m personally leaning toward one focused plan within any given church, yet we also have to find a way to foster creativity and flexibility so as not to suck the life out of it. We also have to question here whether a standard curriculum/workbook helps or hurts us.
- Can Discipleship be Measured? It is going to get really frustrating if we have no way to measure progress toward the end destination, but I’m still not sure how. I’d like to think that we can focus life in Jesus toward three-five key directions, and then establish mile-markers of maturity in each of those directions.
- Action Orientation. No questions here, just statement. For too long we have assumed that learning more will translate to doing more. Any discipleship plan that educates more than activates is worthless. Faith is something you act on more than think on.
18 responses so far ↓
caldrich4 // April 30, 2008 at 11:03 am |
There is no doubt in my mind the God wants me to disciple others. Jesus clearly directs us as his disciples to “make disciples”. Can I effectively disciple others without a plan? Without intentionally setting up a structure in which discipleship will occur? While I believe that I can disciple others without a structure or model for doing so, I believe I can be much, much more effective within a model or structure where discipleship will happen. Additionally, a structure helps to measure whether effective discipleship is occuring. If 2 people are meeting regularly, reading the Bible, discussing the Bible and praying together, then effective discipleship is occuring. The extent of the progress is going to be measured by examining “life change” over time.
mwolf34 // May 1, 2008 at 8:19 pm |
Discipleship is certainly a command to and responsibility of every believer. Thank you for tackling the task of putting forward models for consideration and discussion. Here are my initial thoughts on the questions you posed. It will be interesting to me to see if my views change during these discussions.
QUESTION #1: Do we need a model? I don’t think we do need a model. I am unconvinced that stewardship of resources and goals are the models we see from the bible.
I do think a plan can be helpful and I love goal setting. However, there are dangers lurking here that require a fair amount of caution. Most prevalent in my life is that a plan and goals tend to compartmentalize a task. Discipleship should permeate our whole life. (I know it sounds rather holy, but can be used to mask a desire for maintaining the status quo!) I am happy in reading the discussions thus far have been very focussed on relationships. If we keep this focus then I think we can use plans and models in a God honoring way. In other words, while I don’t think a plan/model is needed they can be helpful. I certainly recognize the need in my life for help in this area.
I will break out my posts so people can easily pick and choose if they want to read my responses to certain questions.
mwolf34 // May 1, 2008 at 8:23 pm |
QUESTION #2 Can one Model work for Everyone?
I have strong feelings that one model does not work for everyone. We are all made up very differently and I think these differences will shape what resonates with each of us. I think that the discipleship methods of Paul and Barnabas differed. In part, I think these differences may have led to their decision to separate when Paul took Silas (?) and Barnabas took John-Mark.
mwolf34 // May 1, 2008 at 8:33 pm |
QUESTION #3 Can Discipleship be Measured?
This question can be difficult to answer, but I think you addressed it in your first couple lines of the post when you asked, “is what I am doing making me look more like Christ?”
All of the measurements in my mind will be relational. Here are a few areas that I will throw out for discussion:
1. Am I closer to God as a result of my discipleship activities?
2. Am I treating my family better or in a godly manner as a result of my discipleship activities?
3. Am I sharing my faith with others around me in my everyday life?
Essentially I am trying to pull areas that reflect what Jesus pointed to as the two greatest commandments. (1) Love the Lord your God with all your heart, soul, and mind; and (2) Love your neighbor as yourself.
I don’t have a concrete measurement in any one of those areas to put forward as a standard that everyone should be held up against. It will look different for everyone. However, if we are honest with ourselves we usually know how we are doing in those areas if we are honest with ourselves.
Any thoughts?
mwolf34 // May 1, 2008 at 8:35 pm |
QUESTION #4 Which is really the statement: Action Orientation
I think you summed this statement up well. I would only add that if our “learning” doesn’t manifest in action, we haven’t truly learned.
brian hofmeister // May 2, 2008 at 11:05 am |
mwolf,
Your response to question #3 really gets at the heart of discipleship. Maybe we will not find a list of measurements for “love God” and “love people.” Instead of outright accountability to a list of activities, maybe discipleship could take the form of asking one another for a self assessment on well we love in our God given relationships.
ericka howard // May 2, 2008 at 9:50 pm |
Wow. This is a fascinating discussion!! (I just read through all the models and comments posted so far….) I have many thoughts rolling around in my head, but I need some time to make a coherent contribution.
Just wanted you to know I’m in on the discussion, and hope to post more soon.
Robert // May 3, 2008 at 9:30 am |
Re; Question #3:
In Jewish tradition, a disciple’s responsibility is to become his master–not “become like his master, but become his master. I’m convinced that Jesus’ intention was that we disciples become more and more Christlike.
So isn’t that the goal? Loving God and our neighbors is, of course, at the heart of this, but maybe this can be measured.
A young man I know has a t-shirt; on the front, it says “Be the moon.” The back says, “Reflect the Son.”
Do my actions reflect my faith? (James 2)
Is it becoming easier to sacrifice for others in meaningful ways?
Am I trying hard to do these Christlike things? Because the farther along I get, the less trying is required.
Why am I doing this? You might be surprised at how many find it difficult to serve and sacrifice for others without making sure everyone knows about it.
Anyway, you got me thinking (sorry if I rambled a bit). Now going on to read the models….
Carol // May 4, 2008 at 9:12 pm |
Greetings to all, Peace to you,
Wow, there are so many ideas in these 5 models for discipling. I’m struggling to take even a little of it in.
(A prayer: Please Father God, give me wisdom in this area because I am sorely lacking here. Help me to learn from the others in the discussion. Give me wisdom to share my thoughts with others and to allign my thoughts with yours. Help me Lord God to have confidence and faith that you will answer and help me to be single minded and stable in my ways as I participlate in this group discussion. Amen.)
Blessings,
Carol
Dennis // May 5, 2008 at 1:39 pm |
Tine for me to wiegh in…don’t look for profundities…I am a simple man…
Question 1: Re: Model
I am a “plan driven” person. My (general) philosophy is the 6 “p’s” Proper Prior Planning Prevents Poor Performance”. I agree that a plan is a good idea. Maybe “plan” is not the right word…how about a “guideline”? While there may be a few of us that are comfortable with discipleship, many of us have no idea what to do to get started. A guideline provides a specific roadmap with checkpoints to evaluate progress…you know, “how am I doing?”. Just keep it basic and simple (it can still be effective even if it’s simple).
Question 2: Again…keep it simple for us folks who have no idea of how to disciple others. One plan…no buffet. I feel that if we offer too many choices we’ll end up with something that looks like a “zebra” (a horse designed by committee).
Question 3: I also believe that everyone is different, therefore, “maturity” levels will be hard to quantify. Rather, I think it is more effective if communication checkpoints are established so those interested in discipling can have a converstion with those evaluating progress. It will also provide opportunities for coaching if (when) those doing the discipling encounter obstacles or issues that they cannot overcome on their own. Perhaps those who are experienced with discipleship can mentor those who choose to disciple.
Out of curiosity, what would a measurement tool look like? Considering the diversity of those who are likely to participate, what would the mileposts be? If you set markers, would you also then have to also set Start/End dates? How would one know that they have reached the goal?
“Question” 4:
As with any training program, it’s the results that count. The task is not to educate but to motivate. Stimulating the intellect is a good thing, but if the learning is not put into action, then you’ve just wasted your time. What good is a plan if no one executes it? I’ve always felt that results should be evident. For example, after a great sermon, an altar call provides instant evidence that someone was moved to act. So should it be with efforts of discipleship. The effectiveness will be illustrated in the growth exhibited by those discipled.
Does any of this make sense?
Thanks for the opportunity to participate. I’m sure I’ll be challenged (not ALL of my thoughts and ideas are perfect) and I look forward to the conversation to follow.
R0berta Julke // May 5, 2008 at 5:22 pm |
Dennis,
I am right there with you!
I especially track with your comments on Questions 3. It sparked in me the thought that Coaching is a great component to this idea of moving people along on their route to Christ-likeness. Coaching implies that there is relationship, challenge and an expectation of an outcome, BUT based on where the Christ-follower is on their walk. It’s NOT based on where the discipler expects them to be on any given week.
mwolf34 // May 5, 2008 at 8:16 pm |
Dennis,
I like the zebra
I have already stated I strongly disagree that one model fits all. This objection may be more philosophical than practical. If I think about it, all people working to disciple others would still end up “tailoring” the model to individuals.
I think I am reading that others are also concerned that whatever model is used that there is a fair amount of flexibility built into it. I can live with that. I simply want to voice my opinion that there isn’t “one” right model.
I think that goals are very much determined by the individual. These can’t come from us; they need to come from God. I think that God may choose to use leaders to influence, but I think that influence should be along the lines of good questions or suggestions.
I have always liked the duck billed platypus too
brian hofmeister // May 6, 2008 at 8:30 pm |
I believe reaching a consensus on question #3, (How/can discipleship be measured?) is going to be our greatest struggle.
To come anywhere close to a conclusion, I believe we will need to find the harmony between 1) universal directives from God, 2) insights from today’s spiritually mature on how God’s directives usually play out in our context, and 3) the personal initiative/values/goals each individual chooses for themselves.
To respond to Dennis’ interest on what it might look like, take AA’s 12 step method as an example. They, much like us, have the goal to bring remedy and recovery from sin (or at least one sin in their case). Some of AA’s progressive steps include acknowledgement, then confession, then restitution for the sin. Although step 12 is “the end,” their final step is endless – keep passing it on to someone else.
Dennis // May 7, 2008 at 11:10 am |
In response to Brian’s May 6 posting….
I’ll drink to that!! :>)
Now for more ramblings….
After some thought, I like the analogy. Salvation steps are simply: admitting that one is a sinner (acknowledgement), asking for forgiveness (confession), then accepting Jesus as Lord and Savior and expereincing re-birth (restitution).
As for the “passing it on”, we can all relate to the uncontrollable joy we first felt when we asked Jesus into our lives as personal Savior and Lord and how we couldn’t wait to share the good news with everyone with whom we came in contact with for weeks and months! Whatever happened to that enthusiasm? I think we should all regularly review our “steps” in order to regain (and manintain) that level of excitement about living in Him. I guess that’s what accountability partners (or… hmmm…even discipleship programs) are all about, eh? (what an epiphany! I think I might be finally catching on to what Brian is trying to ommunicate…oh joy; rapture!)
As for measuring effective discipleship, it will be interesting to see what ideas come forward. What “steps” we eventually will enumerate.
It also occurs to me that even the spritually “mature” Christian still has personal initiatives/values/goals that they are striving to achieve. Maybe there needs to be “steps” for both the discipled AND the discipler. Hmmmmm. More to chew on. (Now I think I’m REALLY getting the idea!) Gotta go…more thnking to do!
DC
Lumpy // May 7, 2008 at 11:20 am |
I think from scanning above it looks like many of my thoughts are already covered. But I will put them in my words:
1. The goal of discipleship is the transformation of the disciple into the image of their master–in our case Jesus and he loved God and loved others.
2. My great fear in a “model” is that we often focus on the model more than the mission (becoming a disciple.)
3. We need a model that is more apprenticeship-based not information-based. (Think internship not classroom.)
4. Discipleship is ALWAYS about the relationship not the process.
4a. We need a “tool” that helps us keep the target clear within that relationship.
Chris Martin // May 11, 2008 at 2:50 am |
Hi all,
Great to read the comments from all of you. It seems like a great discussion and I hope that something will come out of it.
I just happened to stumble across this discussion as I have been studying discipleship for the last couple of months (not school – myself and God) and it is becoming a very profound experience. As I have studied, I have discovered that discipleship means becoming like Christ – in our thoughts and our actions (already stated). As I read into the lives of those people who have become masters at Christ-likeness I have started to discover the secret to their success. Discipleship starts with the inner-life. “A good tree can’t bear bad fruit, nor can a bad tree bear good fruit”. Whatever is going on in the inner-life is seen in the outer-life / action. We need to focus on our inner-life – and at a guess, this is something which will be a continuous process.
To do this, we need a with-God life, we need to discover the secrets to living every minute of our lives in community with God “Love God, love neighbor” is impossible without doing this. Think about it, meditate on that – it’s impossible! That’s why this verse is so profound and important and makes the basis for dicipleship. The point Jesus is making here is it’s impossible with out a “with – God” existence. Trying it on our own would be like trying to be a “nice-person” – doesn’t work. It would become a legalistic activity – not from grace.
So the question in this is – how do we come to a “with-God” life – and that’s the journey I’m on. I have started to make some discoveries through numerous verses, I have them on my blog http://ambience-chris.blogspot.com/.
The key is to look at discipline such as prayer, meditation, silence, solitude, fasting, confession, worship, study – it’s an endless list. But as we read about these amazing people in the bible, including Jesus and as we read about other modern day believers, discipline and the inner-life is at the fore-front.
The natural consequence of a “with-God” inner-life is the display of the outer life which ‘Out of the believer’s heart shall flow rivers of living water.’” Jesus. John 7: 37-38
It’s been an unreal revelation for me.
So perhaps it would be helpful to have a model which enables people to come together to learn about the disciplines and practise them, share their dicoveries, write them down. Journalling would certainly be an effective way of measuring progress in a believer’s progress with discipleship.
A great goal or vision could simply be “To learn to become like Jesus”. I don’t hear that much in Churches – do you?
In regards to action, discovering the secrets to a with-God inner life will naturally transpose to action. As the soul aligns with how it is meant to operate – with-God, “rivers will flow”. There will be no stopping it!
Chris.
http://ambience-chris.blogspot.com/
JJ // May 12, 2008 at 3:41 am |
Hey, great stuff, Brian! We are much more full of questions than we are answers right now when it comes to discipleship in our context. We will definitely be reading and praying through this site for God’s wisdom to shine through, mixing and matching pieces of some of the models and hopefully taking advantage of the cultural strengths to base life-on-life ministry on. As a team we’re just trying to figure out which one will get us kicked out of the country slowest? Which one will allow new followers to grow the fastest, with the greatest depth of maturity, with the smallest possibility of being cut off from their family, losing their jobs and winding up in jail. If you have any thoughts, we’re all ears.
brian hofmeister // May 12, 2008 at 1:56 pm |
JJ,
Discipleship in the context of hostile government tops anything the rest of us are working on!
Anything I’d suggest would shallow since I’m so far removed from the trenches you work in, yet I can share some recent encouragement I received from Tim Keller boiling the gospel down to three parts:
1. Incarnation (becoming part of your context)
2. Atonement (personally accepting Jesus as Lord and Savior)
3. Reformation (change social & world order)
Although the gospel is never complete without all three, maybe doing two really well will position your context to accept you with a third?