Goal and Vision of the Leader's Role

8. Becoming a Disciplemaker

A disciple of Christ is a learner, follower and worshipper of Christ. Being a disciple of Christ means we help others to become disciples of Christ.

Jesus commissioned those who believe in Him (that would include all Christians!) to make disciples. "All authority in heaven and on earth has been given to me. Therefore go and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit, and teaching them to obey everything I have commanded you. And surely I am with you always, to the very end of the age." (Matt. 28:18-20). It is for everyone - to be involved into building others up. To become responsible for others is part of our spiritual growth.

How does one make disciples for Jesus? First, you need to be a learner. You cannot teach something you didn't learn yourself. Than pass what you learned to someone else. You can be profited yourself in the process. When you start passing what you learned to others on a regular basis you will enter a new level of Christian maturity.

Most people grow and change by watching others, not just by reading books. Every person needs someone to help spiritual growth to occur. Do you remember Christians who made an impact on you in life since you were born-again? Even though they were not perfect you still learned something, right? When you in turn start training others don't worry about making mistakes. Give to the Lord your very best - and He will do the rest!

Stick to the Word no matter what! Imitate the Lord, ask yourself question, "What would Jesus do?" A student is not higher than his teacher is; so in order to make strong disciples of Christ you yourself need to become strong and have a victorious life. Spend time in prayer and in the Word, be spiritually fit for the task.

We make disciples not for ourselves, but for the Lord. People have a tendency to follow a leader they like and be proud of that. Paul had to deal with the situation in the church of Corinth, where they started to follow different teachers and it brought disunity among them. "One of you says, 'I follow Paul'; another, 'I follow Apollos'; another, ' I follow Cephas'; still another, 'I follow Christ.' Is Christ divided? Was Paul crucified for you?" (1 Cor. 1:12-13). In the Muslim religion teachers have their own disciples. The disciples try to imitate their teacher in every little detail. In the world, people follow and shape their lives after famous people. They copy their favorite movie, sport, or singing star. They even dress and act like them! In Christianity denominational traditions started with people following great teachers. As long as people follow people it brings disunity in the body of Christ.

Expect your disciples to follow the Lord - not you! Don't make disciples "in your own image" (For example, if you are an evangelist, don't expect all members of the group to become strong evangelists as you are, but discover what Jesus wants them to be). Jesus Himself said, "My sheep listen to my voice; I know them, and they follow me." (Jn. 10:27)

Only Jesus can have disciples - not men!

1. Who is really a disciple of Jesus? (Jn.8: 31)

2. How can the disciples of Jesus bring glory to God ? (Jn.15:8)

3. Who is a disciplemaker? (in your own words)

Chapters:
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