Category: Partners Discipleship

An objective is an aim, or end of action, or point to be reached. An ancient proverb says, “He who aims at nothing hits it.” Life can be represented on a continuum, point A or a straight line at your birth and an arrow at the other end, indicating an unknown point in the future. Here’s the question, “After these 70-80 years and nothing but death to look forward to and memories to look back at, what will you need to see in order to say that your life was a success?”

I. EXAMPLES FROM THE BIBLE:

1. How was Jesus able to answer this question positively (John 17:4)?
   • Over forty times Jesus refers to the disciples in John 17, they were His ministry, these 12 men who occupied His time and life for three years. He had finished the work the Father gave Him to do.
   • God, all You had on Your heart for My life, I did.
2. How did Paul see the end of his life (2 Timothy 4:7-8)?

II. IN YOUR LIFE:

1. For what are you striving and working for, and what will eventually happen to it (2 Peter 3:10)?
2. What did we bring in to this world and what will we take from it (1 Timothy 6:6-8)?
3. How depressing is it to pour yourself into a chosen vocation and then discover that God will eventually burn it up, and you’ll leave this world empty-handed?
4. Surely there is some purpose in life, something for which you exist? What have you discovered so far?

III. WHAT DOES THE FUTURE HOLD?

1. How long are people really going to live (John 5:28-29)?
2. What other thing is going to last forever (Isaiah 40:8)?
3. In your life, how can you give your life to the only two things that will last forever (people and the Word of God)?

IV. OUR CALLING VERSUS OUR PROFESSION:

1. This does not mean that you cannot be a farmer, teacher, businessman or engineer, but don’t think that this is the reason you are on this planet at this time in history! No matter our profession, for what are we to labor (John 6:27)?
2. For whom do we really work (Colossians 3:23)?
3. What is one activity all believers can do, no matter what your profession (Matthew 4:19)?

V. GIVING YOUR LIFE FOR PEOPLE:

1. What does it mean to give your life for others (1 Thessalonians 2:8)?
2. You are to be involved in the lives of others, at the gut level, not superficially.
3. Consider as your life objective that you live your life for others. What promise is made in Luke 9:24)?

I. THE PRINCIPLE:

1. What is the first commandment of God to mankind (Genesis 1:28)?
2. Multiplication is God’s way of doing things, and it is not always easy.
   • For a salmon, multiplication is death: a salmon swims upstream, lays its eggs in the sand, and then dies.
   • What does it take for a grain of wheat to reproduce (John 12:24)?
3. Another cost of multiplication is that it is initially slower than the process of addition.

II. THE GREAT COMMISSION:

1. If a gifted evangelist were to win 100 people per day to Christ, and a disciple were to win and disciple one person per year, with the expectation of the disciple reproducing himself one person per year, how many years would it take for the multiplication process to numerically pass the addition process?
2. How about if the evangelist won 1000 people per day?
   • At 100 people per day: somewhere in the 19th year.
   • At 1000 people per day: somewhere in the 24th year.
3. Which would you choose?
   • $1.00 per week for a year? or
   • $.01 for the first week, and doubling the amount every week? (with this deal you would be able to pay off the national debt!)

III. THE KEY:

1. Training a disciple in depth: each time one person fails to reproduce spiritually, you cut your results in half.
2. What three things did Jesus say caused certain seed to become unfruitful (Mark 4:18-19)?
3. What kind of person did Paul tell Timothy to disciple (2 Timothy 2:2)?
4. Every Christian should ask himself two questions:
   • Who is my Paul (the person from whom I am learning to be a disciple-maker)?
   • Where is my Timothy (the person I am in turn helping to become a multiplying disciple-maker)?
5. Read Ezekiel 22:30. Have you heard His cry? Will you be that person?

I. SPIRITUAL GIFTS ARE FOR A SPIRITUAL BODY:

1. On what three occasions did Paul name things which he did not want his readers to be ignorant?
   • 2 Corinthians 2:11
   • 1 Thessalonians 4:13
   • 1 Corinthians 12:1
2. The word “Gift” in the Greek language.
   • Pneumatikon (1 Corinthians 12:1) means “spiritual matters” (“Gift” is not there).
   • Charismaton (1 Corinthians 12:4, Rom 12:6) means “Grace filled”(“Gift” is not there), yet the Bauer, Arndt, Gingrich lexicon defines the word as:
     • A favor, or earthly goods bestowed.
     • A gift freely given, only gifts of divine grace.
3. A distinction will later be made between motivational, ministry and manifestation gifts.

II. WHO GIVES AND RECEIVES SPIRITUAL GIFTS?

1. The Giver (1 Corinthians 12:8,9,11,28)
2. The Receivers (1 Corinthians 12:7,11,13-14,18)

III. DISCOVERING YOUR GIFTS:

1. If he is a disciple, get them involved with people.
   • What are the purposes of spiritual gifts?
     • 1 Corinthians 12:12-31
     • Ephesians 4:12-16
   • Your disciple needs to be involved with other people, as they serves others, their gifts will come to light.
2. Help them exercise any gift that you or s/he suspects they might have.
3. Generally, a person’s gift lies in the area in which his interests lie and where he can most easily exercise faith.

IV. THE BE-ATTITUDES IN DISCOVERING YOUR SPIRITUAL GIFTS:

1. Be informed: research the gifts and know the parameters of each.
2. Be open: do not zero in on one gift in exclusion of all others.
3. Be available: be willing to try things even if you feel you can’t do it.
4. Be sensitive: evaluate the effect of your gift upon others.
5. Be sensible: do not force yourself to, fit into a particular gift.

V. PASSAGES WHICH LIST THE FOUR CATEGORIES OF SPIRITUAL GIFTS:

1. Motivational gifts (Romans 12:3-8) – Primarily Romans 12. These gifts get at the heart of who we are in Christ, recognizes our raw material and why we do certain functions with ease and effectiveness, yet we struggle to serve in other areas.this gift helps explain your motivation for doing certain things, and why you do some things with a certain ease and effectiveness while other things are often difficult.
   • Prophecy—the gift of prophecy is the divine strength or ability to boldly speak and bring clarity to biblical and doctrinal truth. (Romans 12:6, Acts 2:37-40, 7:51-53, 26:24-29, 1 Corinthians 14:1-4, 1 Thessalonians 1:5). The ability to reveal the motives of a man’s heart and see conformity to God’s standards.
   • Service—the gift of serving is the divine strength or ability to do small or great tasks in working for the overall good of the body of Christ. (Romans 12:6, Acts 6:1-7, Galatians 6:10, 1 Timothy 1:16-18, Titus 3:14). The ability to discern and meet needs in a practical way.
   • Teaching—the gift of teaching is the divine strength or ability to study and learn from the Bible, primarily to bring understanding and depth to other Christians. (Romans 12:7, Acts 18:24-28, 20:20-21, 1 Corinthians 12:28, Ephesians 4:11-14). The ability to clarify the truth of Scripture through research and instruction.
   • Exhortation—the gift of exhortation is the divine strength or ability to encourage others through the written or spoken word and biblical truth, whereby the Spirit enables certain Christians to stand beside fellow Christians in need and bring comfort, counsel, and encouragement. (Romans 12:8, Acts 11:23-24, Acts 14:21-22, 1 Timothy 4:13, Hebrews 10:24-25). The ability to admonish and encourage people to pursue a certain course of conduct by helping them to visualize God’s best.
   • Giving—the gift of giving is the divine strength or ability to produce wealth and to give resources for the advancement of God’s kingdom on earth, whereby the Spirit enables one to offer their material blessings for the work of the church with exceptional willingness, cheerfulness, and liberality. (Romans 12:8, Mark 12:41-44, 2 Corinthians 8:1-5, 9:2-7). The ability to share of one’s self and/or material resources to meet specific needs.
   • Leadership—the gift of leadership (or administration) is the divine strength or ability to influence people at their level, while directing and focusing them on the big picture, vision, or idea, directing and inspiring God’s people in such a way that they voluntarily and harmoniously work together to do the church’s work effectively. (Luke 14:28-30, Romans 12:8, 1 Timothy 3:1-13, 5:17, Hebrews 13:7, 17). The ability to help and inspire others to fulfill delegated responsibilities.
   • Mercy—the gift of mercy is the divine strength or ability to feel empathy for others and care for those who are hurting or suffering so that they devote large amounts of time and energy to alleviate it. (Romans 12:8, Matthew 9:35-36, Mark 9:41, Luke 10:30-37, 1 Thessalonians 5:14). The ability to empathize with the weaknesses of others and help them to experience God’s grace in times of need.
2. Ministry gifts (Ephesians 4:11-12) – this gift helps explain the areas in which you will exercise your motivational gift. These are primarily found in Ephesians 4. Any motivational gift can be expressed in a particular ministry.
   • Apostle—the gift of apostle is the divine strength or ability to pioneer new work for the kingdom, beginning new churches, classes, or ministries. (Ephesians 4:11, Acts 15:22-35, 12:1-5, Acts 14:21-23, 1 Corinthians 12:28, 2 Corinthians 12:12, Galatians 2:7). Beginning new work in new fields, going out to meet practical needs (possibly missions).
   • Prophet—the gift of prophet is the divine strength or ability to interpret and apply God’s truth in a given situation. (Ephesians 4:11, Acts 2:37-40, 7:51-53, 26:24-29, 1 Corinthians 14.1-5, 1 Corinthians 14:30-33, 1 Corinthians 14:37-40). Calling people to godly living and development of a life-style of holiness (possibly the family).
   • Evangelist—the gift of evangelism is the divine strength or ability to help non-Christians take the necessary steps toward becoming a born again disciple of the Lord Jesus. (Ephesians 4:11, Acts 8.5-6, 26-40, 14:21, 21:8). Reaching unbelievers for Christ, taking the message to where they are (possibly evangelism).
   • Pastor—the gift of pastor (or shepherd) is the divine strength or ability to care for the personal and spiritual needs of others by nurturing and leading them, whereby assuming responsibility for the spiritual welfare of a group of believers. (Ephesians 4:11, John 10:1-18, 1 Timothy 3:1-7, 1 Peter 5.1-11). The guardian of the flock, called to care for, nourish, challenge and protect (possibly church staff work).
   • Teacher—the gift or teacher is the divine strength or ability to communicate the truths of God’s Word so that others can learn. (Ephesians 4:11, Acts 18:24-28, 20:20-21, Hebrews 5:12-14, Matthew 10:25). The guardian of the truth, called to the task of building the body in the knowledge of the truth, to define, describe and declare existing truth (possibly education).
3. Manifestation gifts (1 Corinthians 12:7-11) – this gift is given to a specific person, at a specific time, for a specific work in ministry where an extra measure of God’s grace is needed to meet a specific need. These gifts are the signs and wonders type gifts primarily found in 1 Corinthians 12. They are given in order for the Christian to perform a certain ministry and is given by the Spirit as he sees that this gift is necessary to fulfill a particular ministry; each believer is given a gift for the common good (1 Corinthians 12:7). There is debate on whether some gifts continued or ceased after the apostolic age.
   • Wisdom—the gift of wisdom is the divine strength or ability to apply the truths of Scripture in a practical way, producing the fruitful outcome and character of Jesus, understanding God’s will and work as it relates to the living of life. (1 Corinthians 12:8, Acts 6:3, 10, James 3:13-17). Revealing specific insight from God’s perspective.
   • Knowledge—the gift of knowledge is the divine strength or ability to bring clarity and to understand situations and circumstances, often accompanied by a word from God, whereby Christians understand in an exceptional way the great truths of God’s Word and to make them relevant in specific situations in the church. (1 Corinthians 12:8, Acts 5:1-11, Colossians 2:2-3, Ephesians 3:14-19). Knowing or understanding something without having learned it.
   • Faith—the gift of faith is the divine strength or ability to believe God for unseen supernatural results in every arena of life, whereby the Spirit provides Christians with extraordinary confidence in God’s promises, power, and presence so that they can take heroic stands for the future of God’s work in the church. (1 Corinthians 12:9, Acts 11:22-24, Romans 4:18-21, Hebrews 11). Knowing God’s will for a specific matter.
   • Healing—the gift of healing is the divine strength or ability to act as an intermediary in faith, prayer, and by the laying on of hands for the healing of physical and mental illness, whereby the Spirit employs certain Christians to restore health to the sick. (1 Corinthians 12:9, 28, James 5:13-16, Luke 9:1-2, Acts 3:1-10, 9:32-35, 28:7-10). The spiritual, emotional and/or physical restoration of a person.
   • Miracles—the gift of miracles is the divine strength or ability to alter the natural outcomes of life in a supernatural way through prayer, faith, and divine direction. (1 Corinthians 12:10, 28, Acts 9:36-42, 19:11-12, 20:7-12, Romans 15:18-19). Intervention on a natural or supernatural level which reveals God in action.
   • Discernment—the gift of discernment is the divine strength or ability to identify falsehood and to distinguish between right and wrong motives and situations, to know with assurance whether some behavior is of God or of Satan. (1 Corinthians 12:10, Acts 5:1-11, 16:16-18, 1 John 4:1-6). An inward awareness of one’s spirit, and the nature of another’s spirit.
   • Tongues (and Interpretation) – the gift of tongues is the divine strength or ability to pray in a heavenly language to encourage your spirit and to commune with God. This gift must be accompanied by interpretation and should be used appropriately. (1 Corinthians 12:10, 14:1-14, Acts 2:1-13). The ability to speak (or interpret) in a language not your own.
4. Miscellaneous gifts: These gifts are found throughout the Bible whereby God gifts individuals for a particular task, also embracing the Christian’s personality and calling.
   • Intercession—the gift of intercession is the divine strength or ability to stand in the gap in prayer for someone, something, or someplace believing for profound results, praying for extended periods of time with great positive effect for the building of the Kingdom. (1 Thessalonians 3:10-13, 1 Timothy 2:1-2, Hebrews 7:25, Colossians 1:9-12, 4:12-13, James 5:14-16).
   • Missionary—the gift of missionary is the divine strength or ability to reach others outside of one’s own culture and nationality, whereby certain members of the body of Christ exercise whatever other spiritual gifts they have in a cross-cultural setting or second community. (1 Corinthians 9:19-23).
   • Craftsmanship—the gift of craftsmanship is the divine strength or ability to plan, build, and work with your hands in constructive environments to build up the Kingdom through artistic and creative means. (Exodus 28:3-4, 30:22, 31:3-11, 2 Chronicles 34:9-13, Acts 18:2-3).
   • Hospitality—the gift of hospitality is the divine strength or ability to create warm, welcoming environments for others in places such as your home, office, or church. (Genesis 18:1-15, Acts 16:14-15, Romans 12:13, Hebrews 13:1-2, 1 Peter 4:9).
   • Music—the gift of music (or worship) is the divine strength or ability to sing, dance, or play an instrument primarily for the purpose of enhancing the worship experience and helping others to worship God. (1 Corinthians 14.26, Deuteronomy 31:22, 1 Samuel 16:16, 1 Chronicles 16:41-42, 2 Chronicles 5:12-13, 34:12, Psalm 150:1-6).

VI. TONGUES AND INTERPRETATION OF TONGUES:

1. Tongues (the ability to speak in an unknown language):
   • Pentecost was a reversal of Babel. People understood the languages.
     • Tongues was related to the Jews (Acts 2:5, 10).
     • Men understood the Galileans in their own language (Acts 2:8,11).
   • Paul speaks of tongues as a sign (1 Corinthians 14:20-22, cf Isaiah 28:11).
     • The reference concerns the judgment of Israel.
     • “Strange tongues” refers to the Assyrian language, since the people would not listen to the Hebrew of her prophets.
     • Tongues was a sign to the unbelieving Jew that the privilege of being God’s light-bearers had passed to the Gentiles.
   • Paul now moves from Pentecost to present day (1 Corinthians 14:23-25).
     • “Unintellegible tongues” don’t add credibility to the church.
     • Prophecy, on the other hand, will cause what four things to happen (1 Corinthians 14:24-25)?
2. Interpretation of tongues (the ability to interpret languages unknown to the interpreter – see 1 Corinthians 14:27-28).
   • Speaking in public must not exceed three, and in order.
   • If there is no interpreter, the gift must remain silent.
3. The Theory of Cessationism, which is the view that the “miracle gifts” of tongues and healing have ceased—that the end of the apostolic age brought about a cessation of the miracles associated with that age. Most cessationists believe that, while God can and still does perform miracles today, the Holy Spirit no longer uses individuals to perform miraculous signs. (from gotquestions.org).

VII. THE CALLING OF GOD:

1. God never asks a person to do something that he cannot do.
2. There are times when God will ask you to do something that you think that you cannot do.
3. What four excuses did Moses give in response to God’s call for him to go to Pharaoh?
   • Exodus 3:11
   • Exodus 3:13
   • Exodus 4:1
   • Exodus 4:10
4. When was the last time that you responded like Moses (Exodus 4:13)?
5. Gifts and calling go together: when God calls you to do a task, He will give you the gifts to accomplish that task.
6. In order to experience fulfillment, the disciple’s life must be in accordance with the way God has made him.

[ More on Spiritual Gifts is found HERE ]

I. FAITH: (Hebrews 11:1-8)

1. Faith is believing the promises of God and acting upon them.
2. Hebrews 11:1-8
   • Able worshiped
   • Enoch walked
   • Noah worked
   • Abraham went

II. THE EXAMPLE OF MOSES: (Hebrews 11:23-29)

1. What did Moses do “by faith?”
2. What did his parents do “by faith?”
3. Faith without conviction is presumption.
   • Moses had faith under the influence of his parents (Heb 11:23).
   • Moses acted based on his own convictions (Heb 11:24-29).
   • How do you live your Christian life now that you are beyond the influence of your parents?

III. PERSPECTIVE:

1. Perspective is has to do with a philosophy of life, seeing life as God does.
   • What was Moses’ philosophy of life (Heb 11:25-26)?
   • What was Jesus’ philosophy of Life (Luke 12:24-34)?
   • How do you help your “Timothy” to have conviction and perspective?
     • Psalm 127:1
     • Philippians 2:13

IV. GUIDELINES FOR DEVELOPING CONVICTION AND PERSPECTIVE:

1. Major in principles, rather than methods.
   • The Parable of the Sower (Luke 8:4-15).
     • The principle: seed is sown, something takes place.
     • The method: no mention of how the seed was sown.
   • The Great Commission (Matthew 28:18-20): Principle with no method.
   • Don’t follow methodology simply because of tradition.
   • Conviction is developed by probing into the “Why” something is done.
2. Major in meeting needs, rather than in developing and imparting techniques.
   • What was the focus of Jesus in relation to meeting needs (John 9:7, 12, 35-38)?
   • Do you feel it is proper to make friends with non-Christian?
   • Is this the same as biblical fellowship (2 Corinthians 6:14)?
3. Major in developing the thought process rather than the skills.
   • What was the major problem Jesus had with the Pharisees?
     • Did they not know how to evangelize?
     • Did they not tithe, pray, know the Word, fast?
   • It was their philosophy of life: conviction without perspective.
   • Discipleship is the imparting of character, not simply skills and knowledge.
4. Major in how to trust God, rather than theories about God.
   • The parable of the Sower (Luke 8:4-15).
     • No faith – Luke 8:12.
     • Faith without conviction – Luke 8:13.
     • Faith without perspective – Luke 8:14.
     • Reproductive faith – Luke 8:15.
   • Notice the rest of Luke chapter 8.
     • Jesus’ ministry in storms (Luke 8:22-25): “where is your faith (Luke 8:25)?”
     • Jesus’ ministry over demons (Luke 8:26-39): witness of faith (Luke 8:39).
     • Jesus’ ministry in death (Luke 8:40-42,49-56): “Only believe (Luke 8:50).”
     • Jesus’ ministry over despair (Luke 8:43-48): “Your faith has made you well (Luke 8:48).”
   • The objective of the Christian life is not survival.
     • If Satan is on the defensive, God must be on the offensive (Matthew 16:18b).
     • Gates are a defensive weapon, not offensive.
     • Disciples need conviction and perspective, or it will be like charging the gates of hell with a water gun.
     • What do you think will happen to a boxer who only defends, and never goes on the offensive?

I. THE FIVE-FOLD OBJECTIVE IN DISCIPLE-MAKING: (1 Thessalonians 1:5-10)

1. Solid decisions for Christ (1 Thessalonians 1:5).
   • How did the gospel come to the Thessalonians?
   • The Holy Spirit was received how?
2. Disciples (1 Thessalonians 1:6).
   • Who did the Thessalonians imitate?
   • People learn to follow the Lord by following His people.
3. Pacesetters (1 Thessalonians 1:7). They became examples to whom?
4. Reproduction (1 Thessalonians 1:8).
   • What did the Thessalonians share?
   • What did Paul need to add or clarify?
5. Commitment (1 Thessalonians 1:9-10).
   • What did the Thessalonians turn from, and to?
   • What are they doing for the living and true God?
   • Does the hope of the second coming bring inspiration or fear in the Thessalonians?

II. THE TRAINING PROCESS FOR GROWTH, INSTRUCTION, AND DISCIPLINE:

1. The trainer helps a person become what he wants to be.
   • The person must see life from God’s point of view.
   • If the person is unwilling to pay the price, there is not much the trainer can do.
2. The trainer contributes in the person’s development.
   • He gives of his time.
   • He gives opportunity to learn.
   • He gives responsibility: attitudes, willingness, and teachability all fall on the person to be discipled.
3. The trainer yields total responsibility for change to the person: the trainer assumes the role of a guide.
4. The person must set his own goals for growth: they are often higher than the ones that would have been set by the trainer.

III. WHAT ARE THE BASICS: (The Wheel Diagram)

1. The hub of the wheel is Christ.
   • What do the following verses say about Christ?
     • Galatians 2:20
     • John 15:5,10
   • Just imagine rolling a spare tire down a hill without a hub!
2. The spokes of the wheel.
   • The Word (John 8:31-32) – The Word – the ministry of teaching and preaching.
     • What needs to richly dwell in you (Colossians 3:16)?
     • The following is a process for implementing the Word into life: “God’s Word in your HEART and on your hand; five fingers and the palm.”
       • Hear – Romans 10:17, Mark 4:23.
       • Examine – Revelation 1:3.
       • Analyze – Acts 17:11, 2 Timothy 2:15.
       • Remember – Psalm 119:9,11, Deuteronomy 6:6.
       • Think – Psalm 1:2-3, Joshua 1:8.
       • Apply – the Palm – Luke 6:46-49, James 1:22.
   • Prayer (John 15:7) – Prayer – the ministry of intercession and worship.
   • Witnessing (John 15:8) – Witnessing – the ministry of evangelism (2 Timothy 4:5).
   • Fellowship (John 13:34-35) – Fellowship – the ministry of nurture and service.
3. The rim of the wheel (The obedient Christian in action) – three basic questions for imparting the basics.
   • What does s/he need?
   • How can s/he get it?
   • How will I know when s/he has it?
4. Helping them pass it on to others.
   • Have them begin discipling another person.
   • This will solidify convictions.
   • This provides a laboratory for growth.
   • This makes him/her teachable and eager to learn.
   • You continue to walk with them: how to do more than just share information.

III. THINGS TO REMEMBER WHEN DISCIPLING PEOPLE:

1. They belong to God.
2. They must know that you believe in them: confidence.
3. They must not become too dependent upon you.
4. Allow for the freedom to fail.
5. Teach them to evaluate others: what do these passages reveal about this?
   • Luke 6:12-13
   • 1 Timothy 5:22

The first step in discipleship is evangelism; the second step is follow up. Follow up is simply “spiritual pediatrics,” the care and protection of an infant.

I. ENSURE PROPER CARE AND PROTECTION:

1. Go over again carefully the plan of salvation: what do the following verses reveal about God’s plan of salvation?
   • 1 John 5:11-13
   • John 3:16
   • Romans 3:23
   • Romans 6:23
   • Romans 5:8-10
   • Romans 10:9-10,13
   • Acts 26:20
   • Luke 9:23
2. Pray for and with him/her.
   • How do the following prayers of Paul deal with growth and maturity?
   • Ephesians 1:15-23
   • Ephesians 3:14-21
   • How can we effectively intercede for others (How do we know for what to pray) (1 Corinthians 10:13)?
3. Visit him/her soon and frequently.
   • What is the most critical time in the life of an infant?
   • A new believer needs encouragement, walk with them!

II. ENSURE THE PROPER DIET:

1. Consistent devotional time.
   • What was one of the habits of Jesus relating to prayer (Mk 1:35)?
   • What do the following mean to you?
     1. Adoration
     2. Confession
     3. Thanksgiving
     4. Supplication
2. Bible reading.
   • How does 1 Peter 2:2 relate to new Christians and the Word of God?
   • It is best to read small sections and meditate, then memorize one of the verses that has special significance to you.
3. Bible study: personal and corporate.
   • This teaches them to feed themselves.
   • Character studies, topics, doctrines, chapter studies, etc.

III. ENSURE LOVE AND AFFECTION:

1. Invite them to your home for meals and events: be a part of the family.
2. What does Hebrews 10:21-25 say about Christians gathering together, and why?
3. Read Mark 3:14.
   • Why did Jesus appoint the twelve?
   • How do you see this verse in relation to discipleship?

IV. ENSURE AN ATMOSPHERE OF ACCEPTANCE:

1. They should be able to talk to you about anything, without the fear of being misunderstood or rejected.
2. What is the key to this atmosphere of acceptance (1 Peter 4:8)?

THERE IS STRONG COMPETITION TO GAIN PEOPLE’S ALLEGIANCE:

1. What events in life pull you in different directions?
   • What time pressures are involved in school/work and church?
   • How is it possible to be totally committed to each of these?
2. To move up the corporate ladder, you must “eat, drink and sleep” the vision of the company. How has this happened in your experience?
3. To follow Christ, there is no difference (Luke 9:23).
   • The calling is for disciples, not believers (Sunday Christians).
   • When a person comes to Christ, who determines where time, money and resources are spent?
4. As ambassadors for Christ (2 Corinthians 5:20), we are in the business of recruiting people to a life of discipleship. How can you get better at this life goal?

II. PRINCIPLES IN RECRUITMENT:

1. Recruit to a vision, not an organization.
   • God gives visions: an organization may serve the vision, but it can never be the vision.
   • Is it ever proper to preach faithfulness to an organization in order for it to be successful?
   • How is it that numbers take care of themselves when spiritual needs are met (John 12:32)?
   • Is it our objective to make people Baptist, or Christian?
2. Never create the impression that they are doing God a favor by their being faithful to the cause of Christ.
   • Is it ever easy to follow Christ (John 6:60, 66-67)? Why?
   • What danger is there if we neglect this principle (Deuteronomy 20:8)?
   • Getting involved has always been on a volunteer basis.
     • How does this principle affect recruitment for Sunday School or Discipleship Ministry leadership? ­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­
     • How well will a job be done if they take a position “as a favor to me?”
     • Would you ever seriously consider terminating a program if it could not be properly staffed?
3. Grow into business, don’t go into business.
   • Start small, and build in depth.
     • Are rising numbers the only sign of growth?
     • How can we build deeply into the lives of others?
   • How many people can a leader properly handle (investing his life into the other person so that he in turn will disciple others)?
4. Tailor the job to the person, not the person to the job.
   • We don’t recruit people in order to use them.
   • Determine what the person you are discipling needs, not what it is that he does best.
   • He will exercise his gifts as he grows: God is interested in what a person is and can become, not what he can do.
5. Discipleship must take into consideration the development of the whole person.
   • Three areas of development.
     • Teaching – imparting of knowledge.
     • Training – imparting of skills.
     • Building – imparting of character.
   • In what four ways did Jesus grow (Luke 2:52)?
6. There must be a proper balance between love and rebuke.
   • How will people know that we are disciples of Christ John 13:34-35)?
   • From whom is rebuke best received (Proverbs 27:5-6)?
   • What sort of person loves the giver of proper reproof (Proverbs 9:8)?
7. You recruit a person by being his/her servant.
   • A commander tells you what to do; a leader shows you what to do and how to do it.
   • Why is it that to be called a servant is the highest compliment, but to be treated like a servant is an insult?
8. You produce after your own kind whether you like it or not.
   • Can you honestly say Paul’s statement (1 Corinthians 4:16)?
   • What needs to change in your life to say it?
   • Your “Timothy” will naturally follow you like a parent.
     • Read Genesis 20:2 and Genesis 26:7.
     • Read again “The Kind of Person God Uses.” Which of these qualities is in your life?

Being a disciple begins with a proper relationship to Jesus Christ, and having your heart set on what is His. The objective of the Christian is to populate heaven.

I. PICKING THE OPPORTUNITY (From John 4):

1. “He had to pass through Samaria” (John 4:4).
   • This may indicate the universality of the gospel, and not just for a chosen people.
   • What do you think is the disciple’s objective in regard to evangelism?
     • Should disciples become friends with worldly people, or separate themselves? Why?
     • In what way can you become friends with “publicans and sinners” (Matthew 9:11-12)?
2. “Jews have no dealings with Samaritans” (John 4:9).
   • What were the physical needs of Jesus (John 4:6-7)?
   • Instead of satisfying Himself, He created and opportunity to witness. How have you put your desires second and put Christ first?
     • How can we use our needs as an excuse not to witness?
     • Was this woman a good opportunity to put in a good word for Jesus?
       1. She a Samaritan – He a Jew.
       2. She a woman – He a man.
       3. She was immoral – He was righteous.
       4. She was an outcast – He was a great teacher.
       5. She lost her reputation – He could by association.

II. PRINCIPLES IN EVANGELISM (From John 4):

1. Open an opportunity by asking a favor (John 4:7).
   • Human nature gives us the desire to be needed and feel important.
   • By revealing His need, Jesus created an atmosphere in which she could freely talk about her own needs.
   • Try noticing someone’s proficiency at something, and asking for pointers. How has this worked for you?
2. Tailor the approach to the person (John 4:10).
   • There are two things that few people can resist, and Jesus used both.
     • He offered her a gift.
     • He aroused her curiosity.
   • With Nicodemus, Jesus used a theological approach (John 3:3).
3. Choose the questions you want to answer and ignore the others (John 4:9, 20).
   • Jesus did not argue controversial points, but got to critical issues.
   • Develop a feel for the important questions.
     • Who did Cain marry? What about people who have never heard?
     • Determine if it a critical issue for the person or are they trying to sidestep the real issue?
       1. If they knew the answer, would it make a difference in their relationship to Christ?
       2. If it will, do all you can to answer their question.
4. Guide the conversation to where the person exposes a need (John 4:16-18).
   • The gospel is good news, based on the assumption that a person’s needs can be met.
   • Concentrate on getting to know the person.
   • Find out what his/her needs are, what is occupying their thinking?
5. Tell the truth, even if it hurts (John 4:22).
   • Jesus’ last statement was a total turn-off for a Samaritan.
   • If we hedge on the things we know to be true, we convey a lack of trust in our own convictions.
   • But this is not a liberty to be tactless (2 Timothy 2:24-26). What does Paul tell Timothy here?
6. Agree with the person as much as possible (John 4:20-24).
   • Jews and Samaritans could not agree on what mountain God was to be worshiped.
   • Jesus tells her that she is partly right – the issue is that God is spirit, and He seeks those who worship Him in spirit and in truth.
7. Don’t allow the conversation to get off the subject (John 4:19).
   • She attempted to change the subject to theology.
   • Watch out when things get personal.
8. Be sensitive to the working of the Holy Spirit (John 4:26-29).
   • Jesus did not push her into a decision; He engaged in conversation and allowed her to ponder the implications of what was said.
   • Peter gave no invitation at the end of his sermon (Acts 2:36-38).
   • Notice how she progressed: calling Jesus a Jew (John 4:9), Sir (John 4:11), Prophet (John 4:19), to Christ (John 4:29).
   • How have you grown in your understanding of who Jesus really is?

III. PASSION TO DO THE JOB (From John 4):

1. What does John 4:34-35 say to you?
2. Is evangelism…
   1. Exercising a spiritual gift?
   2. Or doing the will of God?
3. Evangelism is engaging the enemy in spiritual warfare, and who enjoys physical combat?

I. DISCIPLESHIP IS NOT DESIGNED TO HELP GOD, BUT TO HELP US:

1. We have opportunity to tap the infinite resources of God.
2. Our lives can have significance rather than mediocrity.
3. Yet, Jesus warns us to count the cost – our lives.

II. COUNTING THE COST (Luke 14:1-35).

1. “They were watching Him closely” (Luke 14:1).
   • People watched Jesus to see if He was genuine.
   • What do people see as they watch you?
2. “In front of Him was a certain man suffering” (Luke 14:2).
   • Jesus was constantly in touch with the needs of people.
   • What needs do you see around you that would involve some risk in order to meet?
3. “Do not take the place of honor” (Luke 14:8).
   • People will notice your humility as you take the lower seat.
   • The result is our feeling good, not bad (Luke 14:10): The commands of God are not arbitrary, but designed for our best.
4. “He who humbles himself will be exalted” (Luke 14:11).
   • It is not an issue of simply satisfying our desires, but that they need to be satisfied His way.
   • We want what God has promised, but we are unwilling to pay the price.
     • A person cannot get without giving.
     • A person cannot live without dying.
     • What is the price you must pay to live in humility?
5. “They all alike began to make excuses” (Luke 14:18).
   • Why would anyone reject the invitation to God’s table (1 Corinthians 2:6-8)?
   • Property, possessions and passion all got in the way. What has gotten in the way for you?
   • The cost involved in following Christ.
     1. What is the cost in becoming a Christian (Ephesians 2:8-9)?
     2. What is the cost in becoming a disciple (Ephesians 2:10)?
6. “Great multitudes were going along with Him” (Luke 14:25).
   • It is often in vogue to speak a word for Jesus (politicians, sports heroes, etc).
   • The multitudes followed, but “The sinners were coming near Him to listen to Him” (Luke 15:1).
   • There is a spirit of desperation within the disciple. At what point in your life have you been desperate?
7. “First sit down and calculate the cost” (Luke 14:28).
   • The spies sent into the Promised Land (Numbers 13-14).
     • How was the cost too high for them (Numbers 13:32-33)?
     • They were walking by sight, not by faith (2 Corinthians 5:7). How have you been walking by sight?
     • They had an undue concern for their families (Numbers 14:3, Luke 14:26). What about for you?
   • Two illustrations of counting the cost: tower and battle (Luke 14:28-32).
8. “If even salt has become tasteless” (Luke 14:34).
   • Is Jesus describing a believer who refuses to be a disciple?
   • Going back on a commitment is good for nothing.
     1. You can’t save him (he is).
     2. You can’t use him (he’s unavailable).

III. DESTROY ALL AVENUES OF RETREAT:

1. What does that statement mean to you?
2. When Cortez landed at Vera Cruz (1519), he sought to conquer Mexico. He set fire to his eleven ships, and his 700 men had only one direction to go.
3. Are you willing to pay the price to follow Jesus (Luke 14:27)?
4. In what ways do you need to make changes to be available for God and His mission for your life?

I. JESUS IS LORD WHETHER WE ACKNOWLEDGE IT OR NOT:

1. Who is Jesus anyway (Colossians 1:15-18)?
   • How much did you decide about yourself (when to be born, in what country, to which parents, your color, gifts, attractiveness)?
   • What then are you able to control?
2. What is Jesus like (Philippians 2:1-11)?

II. WHY DO PEOPLE NOT ACKNOWLEDGE JESUS AS LORD?

1. He may ask us to do something that we do not want to do.
   • Of course He will, or there would be no issue involved.
   • What did God ask the following people to do?
     • Abraham – Genesis 12:1-4; 22:1-10.
     • Moses – Exodus 3:1-4:17.
     • Jesus – Mark 8:27-33; 14:36.
   • What does it mean to deny yourself (Luke 9:23)?
2. We think we know what is best for our lives.
   • A child left to himself will kill himself.
   • We think that things change once we are mature.
     • Adults left alone also hurt themselves.
     • We hire policemen to watch over us, and then have the audacity to say that we know what is best for our lives.
3. We are not sure that God has our best interests at heart.
   • If God wanted to harm us, imagine what He could do.
   • You might say that He does not want to get involved in our lives, but it is ridiculous to say He wants to hurt us.
   • You can’t argue that Jesus does not want to get involved in your life.
     • This is the whole issue of lordship.
     • What does Jeremiah 29:11 say to you?

III. WHAT DOES IT MEAN TO ACKNOWLEDGE JESUS AS LORD? (Matthew 6:9-13)

1. “Our Father,” not “My Father.”
   • The disciple must identify with people where they are.
   • The disciple has never “arrived” – he is a learner and a pilgrim.
2. “Hallowed be Thy name.”
   • Jesus did not pray for His name to be hallowed.
   • Lordship means surrendering your name. (Are you out to make a name for yourself?)
3. “Thy kingdom come.”
   • God’s desire is to rule on Earth as He rules in heaven.
   • Are you seeking to build His kingdom?
4. “Thy will be done.”
   • Do you seek after the will of God (John 5:30)?
   • So, for God’s will to be done, we must actively seek His will.
5. “Give us this day our daily bread.”
   • An attitude: all that I have comes from and belongs to Jesus.
   • Why is your life not even your own (1 Corinthians 6:19-20)?
6. “Forgive us our debts, as we have forgiven our debtors.”
   • Do I really want God to forgive me the way I am forgiving others?
   • This involves the receiving and giving of forgiveness.
7. “And do not lead us into temptation.”
   • Even into situations where we will be tempted.
   • Are you willing to surrender questionable things (Romans 14:21)?
8. “Deliver us from evil (or, the evil one – John 17:15).
   • Are Christians able to fight their own battles (2 Chronicles 20:15)?
   • What five actions must we do for God to deliver us from the evil one (James 4:7)?

IV. WHY JESUS WANT US TO ACKNOWLEDGE HIS LORDSHIP (Isaiah 46:9-10)?