B U I L D
At the core of “build” is discipleship, the call to "Follow me!" "Then He said to them, “Follow Me, and I will make you fishers of men.’ They immediately left their nets and followed Him” (Matthew 4:19-20 NKJ).
The essence of discipleship rests on "follow" and “example”.
If you're on the path to becoming a disciple-maker, being an "example" is imperative. The call to "Follow me" translates to an invitation to walk alongside, emulate, learn, and grow. This sentiment lies at the very heart of the gospel. Jesus’s directive was clear: create more disciples.
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Jesus exemplified a radical leadership approach in Matthew 20:25-28, NKJV, "The rulers of the Gentiles lord it over them... Yet it shall not be so among you; whoever desires to become great among you, let him be your servant." Jesus’s words are a powerful reminder: true greatness is attained through servitude.
Discipleship is helping disciples recognize and fulfill their divine destiny.
The Outcome of Building Disciples: As recorded in Mark 3:14, 15, NKJV, "Then He appointed twelve, that they might be with Him and that He might send them out to preach, and to have power to heal sicknesses and to cast out demons.”
The potency of discipleship rests in its multiplicative power.
While a single individual has limitations, creating disciples doubles one's efforts and impact. It exemplifies the power of duplication.
Discipleship's true strength lies in fostering leaders from within the local church.
Discipleship is more than just a religious term.
It’s an invitation to an intimate relationship, a transformative journey, and a lifelong commitment. Jesus's approach to making disciples during His lifetime provides invaluable insights for today’s local churches and pastoral leadership.
For more teaching on our approach to discipleship, read Larry Neville’s book, Disciple Makers, “The Mandate for all Christ Followers.”