SEVEN STEPS OF CHRISTIAN LIVING MANUAL

STEP 7: DISCIPLESHIP

Purpose Statement:

To provide the Christian leader with training on discipleship with the goal of
becoming more like Jesus Christ.

Learning Objectives:

This lesson provides the Christian leader with the following:

1. An understanding of the priority of discipleship

2. The meaning of discipleship
3. Basic principles on the phases in the discipleship process
4. Practical considerations in the practice of discipleship

Introduction:

Discipleship is the seventh step in the “Seven Steps of Christian Living.” In order for
the “Seven Steps” to be effective, the believer must be committed to the practice of
discipleship. In many ways, the seventh step is both the goal and foundation for the
other six steps.

People from all backgrounds – students, business professionals, auto mechanics,

teachers, farmers, doctors, to name a few – can get involved in discipleship. New
believers should seek to be discipled while more mature Christians should be
disciplers. The practice of discipleship should be at the core of every Christian’s life
and ministry.

In this lesson we will consider a definition of discipleship. We will then discuss the
importance of discipleship followed by practical considerations on how to develop
an effective ministry of discipleship.

Note: When the term “new believers” is used, it is not necessarily a statement of time
but rather a description of one who is still “young” in the Christian faith.

I. Priority of Discipleship

Jesus demonstrated the priority of discipleship in His earthly ministry. Jesus spent
the majority of His time investing in the lives of a small group of disciples. This is
significant because Jesus could have built a much larger public following. Indeed,
Jesus’ popularity was growing as He performed miracles (see, for example, John 6:1-
15). He could have attracted larger and larger crowds, but instead chose to pour the
majority of His time and energy into a small group of followers. Interestingly, after
His resurrection when His popularity could have reached epic proportions, He again
chose to spend most of His time teaching His disciples (John 20:19-21:25; Acts 1:1-
11).

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 As He prepared to leave this earth Jesus commanded His disciples to follow the
example of His ministry of discipleship:

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 (Matthew 28:18-20).

But what does discipleship mean?

II. Meaning of Discipleship

A. Definition of Discipleship

At a simple level, a “disciple” is one who accepts and helps spread the teachings
of another person. A Christian disciple, therefore, is a person who accepts and
helps spread the teachings of Jesus.

We can go further. Following His resurrection, Jesus told His disciples to “go,”
“make disciples,” baptize them, and teach them “to obey.” This is known as
Jesus’ “Great Commission.”

The main emphasis is on the command to “make disciples.” The other three items
mentioned in Matthew 28:19 (going, baptizing, teaching) are characteristics of
how disciples should be made.

Some observations:

1. “Making disciples” is not optional for the followers of Jesus

Our Sovereign King has told us clearly what He expects us to do.

2. Discipleship involves evangelism and baptism

Evangelism is the first step in the discipleship process and must occur if
disciples are to “go” to the nations and enlist new disciples. When new
converts follow Jesus they are to be baptized which identifies them publicly
with King Jesus and His Kingdom.

3. Discipleship involves learning about Jesus and obeying Him

4. Discipleship should be reproducible where new disciples eventually “make

disciples”

5. Jesus promised to be with His disciples

It is through the indwelling of the Holy Spirit that Jesus is with His followers
after He physically left this earth.

Christian discipleship is, therefore, the process by which unbelievers become

obedient followers of Jesus and then reproduce themselves.

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 Note: When the term “reproduction” is used, it is not a statement of boasting upon
the mentor’s part. It simply means that the fruits of the Christian life should be
multiplied and reproduced in others.

B. Relational dimensions of Discipleship

There are two relational dimensions in the discipleship process: the relationship
the disciple has with Jesus and the relationship with the discipler.

1. Relationship between the disciple and Jesus

When a person surrenders to Christ he becomes a disciple of the King. Jesus

then lives in the lives of His disciples through the Holy Spirit. It is the most
important relationship anyone can experience!

2. Relationship between the disciple and the discipler

Beyond the disciple’s relationship with Jesus, as a new believer, he/she should
seek to be discipled by a mature Christian. As the disciple grows in his
maturity he/she should then become a discipler of others. When we disciple
others we are following Jesus’ command to “make disciples.” This involves
evangelism, but this is just the start.

Effective “disciple making” flows from relationship. Just as Jesus developed

close relationships with His disciples, we are to build relationally into our
disciples. In the New Testament, for example, we see how the Apostle Paul
followed Jesus’ example as he invested his life in Timothy.

From the discipler’s perspective, “disciple making” is an intentional, personal

investment into new believers encouraging them to become faithful followers
of Jesus Christ. In turn, these disciples eventually become disciplers of others.

A good word that describes the ministry of the discipler is “mentorship.” It is

the intentional life investment into another. Our goal as disciplers, or mentors,
is to encourage our disciples to grow into maturity, to become more like Christ
and then to invest themselves spiritually into another new believer.

III. Phases in the Discipleship process

Being a disciple and a mentor (discipler) last our entire lifetime. As followers of
Christ, we continue to mature in our relationship with Christ as we become more like
our King, which is the goal of the Christian life and the discipleship process.

Similarly, our role as a mentor lasts throughout our lifetime. When Jesus commanded
us to “make disciples” He did not give a specific time frame.

There are, however, some definite phases in the discipleship process that are helpful
to consider. The following structure is not inerrant (only God’s Word is without
error!) but can be used as a useful guideline.

A. Phase 1 – Short-term Discipleship

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 During the initial discipleship process, the mentor should meet with the disciple
between once a week and no less than once a month. Lasting somewhere between
three months and one year, the short-term discipleship process has two purposes.

1. Develop the lifestyle patterns of the Christian life

The Holy Spirit will encourage the new believer to begin the journey toward
holy living, which is to become more like Christ. It is vital at this stage to help
the new believer understand what it means to live the Christian life.

A helpful tool in this quest is to start practicing the “Seven Steps of Christian
Living.” This resource provides measurable and attainable goals for maturing
in Christ.

During their initial meetings the mentor and the disciple should go through
each step slowly and carefully. The mentor must be certain that the disciple
understands the meaning of each step and begins to practice them.

When the “Seven Steps” are taught in a group setting, it is important to

remember that the goal is not simply to know the information of the “Seven
Steps” but to do them. This requires practicing them in order for the principles
to become a lifestyle.

2. Develop a personal relationship with each other

The mentor has an important leadership role in the disciple’s life. Beyond
encouraging the disciple to understand and practice the “Seven Steps,” the
mentor must also develop a personal, friendship-oriented relationship with the
disciple.

This means cultivating a warm and loving relationship, taking time to have
fellowship with the disciple, and also sharing about his/her own life. Mentors
should allow their disciples to see their shortcomings so that the disciples
recognize that even mature Christians struggle and have weaknesses. The
mentor must also faithfully pray for the disciple.

Furthermore, the mentor needs to continue to grow in his/her own personal

walk with Christ. A common saying in the parent/child relationship is that
children learn far more from what is caught than what is taught. Biblical
information and doctrine are very important, but disciples learn as much as, or
more, by witnessing a life lived with Christian integrity and faithfulness.

B. Phase 2 – Long-term Discipleship

Once the disciple fully understands the “Seven Steps” and has begun to practice
them, the discipleship relationship transitions to the long-term phase, which
continues somewhere between one and three years. During this period the mentor
should continue to meet with the disciple between once a week and once a month.
The long-term discipleship phase has four primary purposes.

1. Grow in the knowledge of God’s Word

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 It is important to grow in knowledge of the Bible. There may be a number of
helpful books that can be used.

One valuable resource providing a tool to understand Scripture is the book by

Jonathan Burnham entitled Encountering Christ. It is strongly recommended
that the mentor goes through each chapter with his/her disciple.

2. Grow with integrity in truth-telling, handling of money, and sexual purity

These three areas should be emphasized and discussed.

- Is the disciple consistently telling the truth?

- Is the disciple handling money – including giving money to Christian

ministry – in a way that reflects Kingdom priorities?

- From a sexual context, are the disciple’s speech and conduct honoring to
Christ?

3. Grow in consistency in practicing the “Seven Steps”

The mentor should frequently review the “Seven Steps” with his/her disciple,
looking for a growing consistency in the practice of each step. For example:

Step 1: Does the disciple demonstrate a growing conviction of sin?

Step 2: Does the disciple demonstrate a growing desire to spend time with God
in prayer and a growing hunger to read God’s Word?

Step 3: Does the disciple demonstrate a commitment to the local church?

Step 4: Does the disciple participate in a small group?

Step 5: Does the disciple demonstrate faithfulness in ministry service?

Step 6: Does the disciple have at least two friends for whom he/she is praying?

Step 7: Does the disciple demonstrate a commitment to the mentorship

relationship?

The disciple should also begin to consider one or two people he/she might
mentor. Ideally, this would be one of their friends who has come to Christ.

4. Grow in the personal relationship between the mentor and the disciple

When Jesus discipled the Twelve, He spent a large amount of time with them.
It is vital that the mentor prioritizes the development of a close relationship
with the disciple. The relationship should have many times of fun, fellowship,
sharing ministry projects, etc. All of this takes a commitment of time for the
relationship.
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 During this period there will be many personal and family items that are
shared. There will be periods of joy and sadness. All of this helps solidify the
relationship between the mentor and the disciple.

C. Phase 3 – Life-long Discipleship

During the life-long discipleship phase the relationship dynamic begins to

transition. At some point, the mentor and disciple should discuss when to begin
the “life-long discipleship” phase. Typically, this phase will begin once the
disciple has completed Encountering Christ (or another similar study) and has
begun to mentor others. Some things to consider:

1. The relationship transitions to a life-long friendship

This does not mean that both individuals are at the same spiritual level;
rather, it is simply a recognition of the continued spiritual growth of the
disciple. These special friendships can be some of the most wonderful
relationships experienced on this earth!

2. The frequency of meetings will decrease

At this stage there is no set meeting timetable. The meetings are primarily
friendship and encouragement based.

3. Sometimes the mentor and disciple may choose to enter into a long-term
accountability relationship

Although this is not required, if this kind of relationship is decided upon, the
meetings will occur frequently, between once a week to once a month. An
accountability relationship provides ongoing sharing and inspection of each
other’s lives, during which vulnerability is essential.

4. The mentor and disciple should now learn from each other

During much of the initial discipleship process, the mentor is giving more
than receiving. Particularly in the “life-long” stage, both individuals learn
from each other. In fact, the disciple may even grow to become more mature
than the mentor.

5. There should still be the occasional “spiritual check-up”

Is the disciple faithfully living the Christian life? Is the disciple living out
the “Seven Steps”?

IV. Further considerations

A. The first priority in discipleship should be our family

Family discipleship should be a top priority of every Christian. Our greatest

testimony for Christ is a healthy marriage and a strong Christian family.

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 Around our children we are modeling the Christian life by how we live. This is a
key component to discipling our families. But it is also important to train our
children in the Christian truth and encourage the development of their Christian
character.

There will be periods when children need more of our time. It is important to be
sensitive to their spiritual needs and development.

B. We should seek to disciple a limited number of people at a given time

Part of the discipleship process can be taught in groups where we provide

teaching and instruction. But this is only part of the discipleship process. We are
limited in how many individuals we can invest significant time and energy into.

Jesus ministered to large groups. But Jesus gave the majority of His ministry time
and focus to the Twelve. Moreover, even among the Twelve, Jesus gave even
added time and attention to a special group of three – Peter, James, and John
(Matthew 17:1; 26:37).

Although some leaders may be able to disciple more, a good number to consider
is between one and three others beyond the family. One-on-one meetings provide
intimate and personalized opportunities for the mentor and disciple.

Some leaders have found that meetings in threes (mentor and two disciples) or
fours (mentor and three disciples) provide a special dynamic for learning and
interaction. If this approach is done, it is important to have additional times of
one-on-one.

C. Prayerfully select the individuals you disciple

The Apostle Paul provides motivation on the careful selection of whom we

mentor:

And the things you have heard me say in the presence of many witnesses entrust to reliable
men who will also be qualified to teach others (2 Timothy 2:2).

Since we can only disciple a limited number of people, we should be very careful
whom we select. We should pray faithfully for guidance and direction. At times,
there will be those that ask us if we will disciple them. Before saying yes,
prayerfully consider if this is what God is leading you to do. Pastors, especially,
may have many requests.

Oftentimes we may need to approach a person we think could benefit from a

discipleship relationship. Once again, this process needs to be directed through
faithful prayer.

For the most part, the men Jesus selected appeared quite ordinary. The issue is not
ability nor education. The attitudes of desire and teachability are essential. Is there
a hunger to grow spiritually and to serve Christ? Very importantly, does the
person have a teachable spirit?

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 Once again, a hunger for God and a teachable spirit are essential.

D. The disciple should agree to the basic terms of the discipleship process

Before beginning, the mentor should make clear what the discipleship process
entails and the expectations should be made clear.

Although it is not necessary, some mentors may even ask their disciples to sign
some form of a covenant agreement.

E. The discipleship process should be men with men and women with women

Jesus had many women followers, but it was twelve men that He set aside for
discipleship. For practical and integrity purposes, this principle should be strictly
followed today.

F. The mentor must emphasize the fruit of obedience

Although this has been mentioned earlier in the lesson, it bears repeating again. A
true disciple – and especially a maturing disciple – seeks to obey the Lord. The
earliest confession of the early Church was “Jesus is Lord” (Romans 10:9; 1
Corinthians 12:3; Philippians 2:11). When Jesus is Lord we will obey Him!

G. Remember that not every discipleship relationship will be successful

Some of our discipleship relationships will not work. In fact, some relationships
may end up being very disappointing and hurtful. This is an important reality to
be aware of so as not to be surprised. Even Jesus had one of His disciples betray
Him.

However, the discipleship relationships that do work will be some of our greatest
joys and encouragements in the Christian life!

H. Remain flexible

Although the basic principles outlined in this lesson are helpful, the discipleship
relationship should remain flexible and unique to each person. These are
guidelines, not rules. Effective discipleship is not just a checklist or a list of
biblical knowledge. Yes, biblical knowledge is very important in our Christian
development, but our character and our relationships are equally vital.

People grow at different speeds and in different ways. Each relationship is

different and will have unique circumstances.

I. Living a life of intentional multiplication of Christ followers

From the discipler’s perspective, “disciple making” is the intentional, personal

investment into new believers encouraging them to become faithful followers of
Jesus Christ. It is an attitude and mind-set that every mature Christian should
have. The objective is not how to build bigger personal ministries, but rather how
to produce Christ followers.

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 “Disciple making” is similar to the mind-set of an athletic coach. A successful
athletic coach realizes that he cannot win the game by himself. Rather, a wise
coach focuses on developing good players to play the game.

For every Christian leader, there will be times when God places people into our
lives who are already mature in the faith but can use our encouragement and
opportunities to grow as a leader. We may not take such a person through all the
steps mentioned in this lesson, but we can still be a part of intentional
multiplication and help a person be even more effective for Christ.

Take, for example, the life of the Apostle Paul. After many years of preparation
Paul was still serving in relative obscurity. All of a sudden, the “leader maker”
Barnabas asked Paul to come help him in the exciting church of Antioch (Acts
11:22-26). Barnabas realized he could use the help of someone like Paul. He was
willing to share the attention and the power, helping Paul increase in his ministry
platform and potential. Indeed, it was the church of Antioch that sent out Paul to
touch the world for Christ.

A mature leader who lives a life of intentional multiplication is willing to share

opportunities and positions in order to help encourage future leaders. What a
special servant Barnabas was!

J. The mentor should consistently emphasize the goal of reproducing the discipleship
process

Jesus said to His disciples,

The harvest is plentiful but the workers are few. Ask the Lord of the harvest, therefore, to send
out workers into his harvest field (Matthew 9:37-38).

A healthy local church is not just bringing in new believers. Rather, a strong
ministry will help the new believers to grow spiritually so that they are then
reaching new converts as well. Each disciple should seek eventually to become a
mentor and then reproduce the discipleship process. This pattern is the key for a
strong and healthy Christian movement.

This should be clear from the beginning of the discipleship process. Indeed, at the
very onset when Jesus started to choose the Twelve, He made it clear to them that
they would be “fishers of men” (Matthew 4:19). The discipleship process is to be
a ministry of reproduction.

Conclusion:

It is nothing short of astounding that Jesus put the future success of His Kingdom
ministry into the hands of just a small group of men. But His discipleship strategy
worked! It is the ministry of discipleship that is needed still today.

In conclusion, read once more the words of Jesus to His followers:

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” (Matthew 28:19-20).
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Review questions:

1) How did Jesus demonstrate the priority of discipleship?

2) What is the definition of discipleship?

3) What are some characteristics of short-term discipleship?

4) What are some characteristics of long-term discipleship?

5) How does the mentor/disciple relationship change in the “life-long” phase?

6) Why is it important to practice the discipleship process with our family?

7) Why do you think the guideline is important for men to disciple men and women with
women?

8) If we do everything correctly will every discipleship relationship be successful?

9) What does it mean to live a life of “intentional multiplication”?

10) Why should the mentor emphasize early on to the disciple the goal of reproducing?

11) What are the “Seven Steps of Christian Living”?

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