Written by Lynton Brocklehurst
(Originally printed in the April 1992 NZ Navigators publication, this article was updated for inclusion in this edition)
When Jesus called the disciples to follow him, he had a transformative journey in mind, far beyond their personal spiritual growth. He said, “Follow me, and I will make you become fishers of people.” (Mark 1:17).
From the outset, he made it clear that discipleship ultimately leads to disciplemaking. He was not merely developing learners (Matthew 9:38). He wanted his disciples to “Go…and make disciples…” (Matthew 28:19).
What, then, did Jesus teach if we were to disciple people in a way that equips them to disciple others throughout their lives?
- He made disciples in the real world: The discipleship Jesus taught his disciples was not a nice-sounding theory they could write in a notebook. Quite the opposite. He created an ongoing ministry environment for his disciples in the streets, at the lakeside, in the synagogues, and people’s homes. They learned discipleship at funerals, weddings, banquets, and religious festivals. Jesus did not encourage his disciples to initiate a separate ministry of their own; he invited them to participate in the real ministry already taking place around them.
- He concentrated on teaching a few: Although Jesus was involved with many people, he clearly focused on developing a select group (Mark 3:14). He deliberately restricted his broader ministry to have a profound, lasting effect on the twelve disciples. In this way, he ensured that there were few areas where they lacked understanding or commitment. Concentration enabled thoroughness and completeness, ensuring that the disciples were fully equipped for their future ministry.
- He was transparent: As he ministered in the real world, Jesus was deliberately open about the personal impact ministry had upon him. He let the disciples see and understand the joys, frustrations, demands, and disappointments he experienced. This transparency was a sign of trust and value he placed on his disciples. They not only saw what he did, but Jesus invited them to look into his heart. What they learned helped equip them to deal with the future inner demands of the ministry themselves. (Luke 10:21, Matthew 26:37–38, John 11:33–36).
- He developed a small community: While Jesus dealt with the twelve personally, he did not disciple them individually or in isolation. He drew them together into a close-knit, mutually dependent community (Mark 3:14). In this way, he taught them to work together. This inter-connectedness allowed Jesus to observe and address the relationship issues that would hinder future effective ministry (Mark 9:33–37).
How can we apply these principles in our daily lives today?
As you get involved in your community—a university club, a neighbourhood group, a sports team, a work group, a service project, or some church outreach project—team up with one or two other mature Christians. Then, find ways to include new Christians with you. Avoid discussing ministry strategy and philosophy. Let the people you are discipling see you minister, love, and pray for others, as well as how you share the gospel. As they develop a desire to help others know Jesus, read the Bible together and study the Great Commission. Pray together for the people who are in their hearts.