One of the most difficult aspects for me, as someone who observes, engages in the challenging task of exploring discipleship methods, and evaluates small group resources, is identifying approaches that are straightforward and easily replicable.
In the past, I have discussed various methods. You can check out my insights on John Wesley’s Holiness Groups, which serve as a prime example. However, there are now other methods recognized for their simplicity and reproducibility, including Discovery Bible Studies, Life Transformation Groups, and Three-Thirds Groups, among others.
What I often find is that when I try to explain disciple-making methods as ‘simple’ and ‘reproducible,’ people may not fully understand the essence or significance of these terms. In Christian church culture, we frequently use language as if everyone comprehends its meaning, but the truth is, we often do not! My goal with this blog is to clarify the terms ‘simple’ and ‘reproducible’ so that when you encounter these phrases again, they won’t just drift away into oblivion.
Why is it crucial to perceive disciple-making as ‘simple’ and ‘reproducible’?
That’s an excellent question!
Despite our sophistication in the West, we have a tendency to complicate what is intended to be straightforward. I recall my college days when I got involved in one-on-one discipleship. My mother, a loving, patient, and mature follower of Jesus, listened to my encouragement for her to participate in the curriculum I was studying, as I had been taught that this was the essence of discipleship. Rather than dismissing me with condescending remarks, she agreed and completed the course. Did this enhance her discipleship? Perhaps! Did the material make her a more obedient disciple? Possibly! What I experienced over the 26 years of my life was a remarkable opportunity and privilege to witness my mother live out her faith—up close and personal. That is true discipleship. Incidentally, I would say the same about my father. Ultimately, discipleship is more about what is caught than what is taught. That is the biblical ideal.
The importance of understanding discipleship as ‘simple’ and ‘reproducible’ cannot be overstated. The term “reproducible” refers to making a connection with Jesus available to every person you encounter. This way, they can share the gift with the next generation of disciples, and the cycle continues…
What do I mean by simple?
Years ago, I upgraded my mountain bike to disc brakes. At first, the thought of changing the brake pads on the back wheel seemed daunting. However, when I broke it down into manageable tasks, it turned out to be quite straightforward. With the help of YouTube, I followed step-by-step instructions. It’s a task I’ve repeated many times; it’s a process that can be done over and over again.
Discipleship is similar. It is simple enough to be repeated endlessly unless we complicate it with unnecessary layers that require a specific level of intellect, education, or rigor that only a few possess. Sometimes, it feels like certain discipleship methods demand a college degree as a prerequisite.
When you hear the word simple, what image or definition comes to mind? The word that springs to my mind is simplistic. However, Jesus’s approach was not simplistic – “Take up your cross and follow Me!” How’s that for simplicity? He asks everything from us!
What do I mean by reproducible?
I was reflecting on my educational journey with my wife, Gina. The best gift I gave her was completing my doctorate before we got married. I also continued my studies from undergrad to seminary to D.Min. without much of a pause. I mention this because my path is NOT something that can be easily replicated. Not many people I know have done that. I doubt you have either. Honestly, I wonder how I managed it. This serves as a prime example of what should not be set as a standard for others.
By reproducible, I mean it’s something that everyone, or at least nearly everyone, can achieve. When I think about how challenging my educational journey was, I feel exhausted. When you think about most discipleship pathways, what feelings does it stir? A straightforward and easily replicable discipleship pathway should inspire confidence that can be expressed as: “I believe I can achieve that.”
When the pathway is replicable, it leads to the growth and multiplication of more and better disciples as a lasting outcome. The difficulty arises when someone who has been conditioned by traditional methods of disciple-making encounters this new approach. They may dismiss it as overly simplistic, lacking depth, or not checking all the boxes!
In previous blogs, I have shared a very straightforward and replicable discipleship pathway. In the book As You Go: Make Disciples by my friend Colin Noyes, it effectively defines what a disciple is, outlines the essential components of a disciple-making pathway, and invites you, the reader, to engage in the discussion. I highly recommend it!
How happy are you with your discipleship pathway?
I’m of the mindset that I can always find ways to improve and grow my capacity to make disciples. However, you might be satisfied with the fruit you are bearing for the Kingdom. If you resonate with any of the questions, take them to heart and build on what you are already doing.
5 questions to help you reflect on your discipleship pathway:
- What is working with your discipleship pathway?
- What is NOT working?
- What aspects are missing?
- What steps are unnecessary?
- What changes could you make to get better results?
It takes me back to the conversation with my mom. Could she describe the discipleship pathway she followed and was helping others follow? I am not certain she could, but she did all the things a Jesus follower lives out – making disciples as she went about her daily activities. That is the essence of what Jesus taught His disciples, which should give us pause to reflect on the way we are helping others follow Jesus.
Photo by Pablo Arroyo on Unsplash
