The Work of a Planter: Make Disciples

This is the Great Commission: make disciples.  Disciples are made in the context of biblical community which is why we are not content to shoot down to NOLA, preach the gospel, then leave.  We believe, firmly, that our most important work is to establish a biblical community for those who trust in Christ so that they may grow up in their faith.

1 Peter 2:2- Like newborn babies, crave pure spiritual milk, so that by it you may grow up in your salvation.

So, what is this work of the discipleship?  It is certainly more than academic knowledge of doctrine.  I know a number of atheist who are very academically acquainted with my faith.  Some of them know the text of Scripture better than I do (that’s a confession...a shameful one), but they are no more disciples than I am an NFL quarterback.  On the other hand, discipleship is not less than learning, in an academic sense, the text, tenants, and doctrines of the faith.  We know this because one of the chief roles of an elder is to be able to instruct in right doctrine.

Titus 1:9- He must hold firm to the trustworthy word as taught, so that he may be able to give instruction in sound doctrine and also to rebuke those who contradict it.

It is not less than understanding doctrine, but what more is it?  I think we get a hint in Hebrews 10 (one of my favorite passages).  Hebrews 10:24-25 reads, “And let us consider how to stir up one another to love and good works, not neglecting to meet together, as is the habit of some, but encouraging one another, and all the more as you see the Day drawing near.”  The call to make disciples is a call to invest relationally in someones life.  The act of encouragement, regular encouragement, is an act of friendship, concern, and commitment.  It is truly a pouring into, sacrificially, for the sake of those we are discipling and, more importantly, for the Kingdom and our King.

I see instruction and relational investment (which includes encouragement, accountability, prayer, and a number of other things) as two vital pillars of biblical discipleship.  In the Great Commission, Jesus doesn’t just say to baptize them.  He doesn’t just say to teach them.  He says to baptize them and teach them to observe all that He has taught us.  Both components are clearly present in the New Testament.

May we strive to invest our lives into the lives of the people of God so that His character is accurately displayed to the nations.

Soli Deo Gloria


PS: I wanted to clearly state that growth is a gift of the Spirit and no discipleship is possible apart from His power.  I didn't address that directly in the post, so I wanted to add it here.