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Intentional body life: training disciples to be disciple-makers
Jay Wegter, Teacher
SESSION TWO
Discussion Questions:
- Sound doctrine is the foundation of a godly life and the basis of ‘good fruit’ (see the pastoral epistles on sound doctrine). Describe some of the pitfalls of attempting to disciple others without laying a foundation of solid biblical doctrine?
- Discipleship is training in righteousness (2 Tim 3:16); learning obedience (Mt 28:20). Explain why the integrity of heart (godliness) of the disciple-maker is so important. (Hint: since the discipler ‘models’ holiness, there will be as much ‘caught’ as taught.)
- Why is the relational approach to discipleship a far more effective vehicle of training than the programmatic, lecture approach? (see 1 Thess 2:3-14.)
- By establishing the training grid of: conviction (sound doctrine), character, and competency, you will be able to keep progress in disciple-making on track. Why would such a clear path to spiritual maturity be a vital factor in remaining on course?
- Doing God’s work, God’s way is by reproducing reproducers (making disciples capable of making disciples). Having a plan to bring a disciple to maturity is essential. Explain why intentionality (conviction, character, etc.) is so essential to the multiplication of disciples?
- Why is the following true? “Churches don’t make disciples; disciples make disciples.”
- Disciples find their place of usefulness in the body through discipleship. In other words: one’s ‘ministry calling’ is mediated through disciple-makers who plug them in, unleashing them to ministry. Describe how this biblical formula for usefulness would provide momentum to move the body of Christ toward a fully ministering laity (Eph 4:12-16).
- The more Christ-like a disciple, the more he will want to pour his life into others in love and service. A growing disciple will not be an ‘end-user’ (or consumer), but will strive to reproduce himself. Explain why receiving the Lord’s love is ‘reflexive’—producing the ‘reflex’ or desire to invest in others (1 Jn 4:10-19).
- When believers make sacrifices in order to see others grow, saints are transformed in the process. Describe how disciple-making produces a ‘chain reaction’ of edification which is unleashed in the body.
- Do you see all of your relationships as existing to move others closer to Christ? What passages of Scripture could be studied and meditated upon in order for you to embrace this ‘mind shift’ concerning your relationships?