“Go… make disciples…” This is the imperative in the Great Commission.
Despite the scriptural clarity, some pastors and ministry leaders struggle with the application. Why? Let me suggest several reasons.
They over-rely on the pulpit. Biblical preaching, especially that which systematically explains and applies the text is essential for discipleship. But reliance on preaching alone, or preaching plus bible studies, without fostering accountable relationships between disciple-makers and disciples, limits fruitfulness. And these relationships seldom develop when pastors and staff do not set the example. Jesus had the crowd, the Twelve, and the three. Paul had his Silas, Timothy, and Titus.
Others accept the myth that, while many may trust Christ, only a few will grow into deep-rooted, serving disciples. They were told “Twenty percent of the church does eighty percent of the ministry,” or more recently “Ten percent do eighty percent.” So, when traditional programs match this level of fruitfulness, they accept it as normal.
The Keswick movement emerged when pastors in Great Britain realized a gap in their experience of “normal Christianity” and the norm they observed in scripture. They may not have found the best solutions, but their hunger that the disciples’ life be shaped by what’s evident in scripture should be ours as well. One will never disciple others to become disciple makers while holding low expectations for the church.
Many have never been discipled themselves. Some, myself included, came to faith through congregations that were somewhat dysfunctional. Others found Christ in churches with solid preaching and groups, benefitting as well from the informal witness of faithful believers in their circle. I’m grateful that God, in His providence, provides these influences. But even as He does, leaders should remember His call to intentional disciple making. Pastors who lack this experience or equipping are wise to seek out experienced disciple makers and learn.
Some fear the disciple making relationship will expose their sin or struggles. There’s great temptation for a pastor to maintain a public persona different from private reality. The greater the gap between the two, the more hesitant the pastor is to forming intimate, accountable relationships. For some this is a question of fitness for ministry rather than disciple making. But assuming the pastor is biblically fit for pastoral ministry, he needs grace like all Christians. Disciples need to see how he responds to God’s conviction with repentance as surely as they see his faithful obedience, love for the Lord, and service.
Some were hurt in past disciple making relationships. Few things hurt in ministry like investing in someone over time, then seeing them leave. It’s exciting when they leave in pursuit of God’s call, but often the departure results from conflict, issues in the church, or the disciple’s spiritual derailment. Some find it hard to allow others into their closest circle, where disciple making is most fruitful, after being burnt, often more than once.
As I write, I’m reminded that Paul felt the sting of Demas’ abandonment even as he sent for Timothy to join him. A careful read of his letters reveals many who, after hearing the gospel from him, opposed him later.
The problem with relationships is that, when they go wrong, they hurt. But our God is faithful, and in the same way He enabled Paul to press on, pastors today can depend on His strength to overcome the hurt and take the risk on those the Lord brings into their lives.
Making disciples, it’s the imperative. There are numerous reasons why many don’t do it, but there’s no good reason.
For more on disciple-making, join us for DMU at Beaumont’s First Baptist Church, Feb. 25-26. Click the link here.
Blessings,
Jim