Discipling disciples

I spent all day Saturday leading a workshop on "Discipleship" for current and potential youth leaders in the Diocese.  This was part of a series of workshops that we’ve done for them.

It amazes me how often little importance is placed on the Great Commission (Matthew 28:19-20).  During the workshop, we focused on "what is a disciple?" and "how can we effectively disciple others?".  I received the same reaction when I did the workshop on "Evangelism" — "Wow..this is easy..I can do this!"  I didn’t realize that ministry was rocket science, which I’m thankful for (I usually made things explode in science class).

I borrowed Doug Field’s "Discipleship HABITS" (Purpose Driven Youth Ministry) to lay out how we can enable people to have a fuller understanding of the Christian Life.

Hang time with God — spending time in prayer, listening to God
Accountability with another believer — having someone with whom we’re honest about the joys and struggles in our Walk
Bible memorization — "I have stored up your word in my heart, that I might not sin against you" (Psalm 119:11)
Involvement in the church body — worshipping,learning and serving with fellow believers
Tithing commitment — supporting the ministry of the local church as well the Body worldwide
Study Scripture — spending time, reading the Word and growing in our knowledge of who God is

I guess in someways, ministry should be like science…it would be great to see discipleship explode!