The foundation of effective disciple-making is rooted in understanding the end goal. Our ultimate aim is to develop disciples who love God and others, reflecting the love of Jesus in their lives. This love, demonstrated through a deep relational connection with God and fellow believers, guides the disciple-making process. To achieve this outcome, the means must align with the desired end. Here are the key elements necessary for making true disciples of Jesus:
1. Pursuit
Just as Jesus actively pursued His disciples, a significant part of disciple-making is the intentional pursuit of individuals. Jesus sought out the twelve disciples, initiating a relationship that would transform their lives. In a similar vein, Barnabas sought Saul (later Paul), and Paul invested deeply in Timothy. This pursuit is not passive but involves actively reaching out to others, building meaningful relationships that foster spiritual growth.
2. Belonging
Belonging is central to discipleship. Jesus modeled this through His deep connection to the Father and His disciples. He established a clear sense of belonging by expressing love for His Father and His followers, creating a community where love was the defining characteristic. This reciprocal belonging extends between Jesus and the Father, Jesus and His disciples, and ultimately between the disciples themselves. True discipleship occurs when individuals experience this profound sense of belonging within the community of believers.
3. A Servant’s Heart
At the core of discipleship is learning to serve others selflessly. Jesus exemplified this by laying down His life for His disciples, teaching them to do the same for each other. A key aspect of this servanthood is not just serving the masses but showing sacrificial love to specific individuals. Lives are transformed when people experience the tangible love of someone willing to lay down their life for them. This personal and intentional act of love is what builds a lasting impact in discipleship.
4. Testing
Every disciple will face tests in their faith journey. Jesus demonstrated this when Peter was tested and sifted by Satan, leading to Peter’s denial of Jesus.. Yet, Jesus showed Peter the depth of His love and forgiveness, empowering him despite his failure. Testing strengthens the disciple’s faith and solidifies their belonging in the community, as they experience the grace and love of God and others even in their weakest moments.
The Means and the End
The methods we use to make disciples must reflect the goal of forming loving, relational followers of Jesus. If the end goal is to produce disciples with extensive Bible knowledge or theological understanding, then teaching and curriculum will be the primary tools. If the goal is to equip individuals for service, then apprenticeship and hands-on training are necessary. However, true discipleship cannot be reduced to knowledge or service alone; love is the distinguishing mark of a disciple of Jesus.
One can possess knowledge without love or engage in acts of service without love. Yet, it is impossible to be a true disciple without love. Love is the defining trait that sets a disciple apart and must be the guiding force in any disciple-making process.
Importance of a Relational Context
Discipleship is not merely an academic or transactional process. It thrives in a relational and communal setting, where individuals are deeply connected to one another through shared love and belonging. True discipleship happens in the context of relationships, as disciples learn to love one another and grow together in their faith. In conclusion, disciple-making begins with the end in mind: producing followers of Jesus marked by love. The pursuit of others, fostering a sense of belonging, developing a servant’s heart, and embracing the testing of faith are all essential means to achieve this goal. Above all, discipleship must be relational, rooted in the love that defines following Jesus.