IPHC Disciple3

METHODS OF DISCIPLING

“The last thing many believers need is to go to another Bible study. They already know far more than they are putting into practice. What they need are ministry and evangelism experiences where they can apply what they already know, relational experiences (like a small group) where they can be held accountable for what they know, and meaningful worship experiences where they can express appreciation to God for what they know. Jesus had to warn the first Christians: 'Do not deceive yourselves by just listening to his word; instead, put it into practice' (James 1:22 TEV).” - Rick Warren, Purpose Driven Church, p. 342

New Beginners Class
Emerging churches have some form of new beginners' class. Doctrine is not the focus as much as experiencing authentic Christian community.

Mentoring
This is the Jesus method. Mentors seek to develop a servant mentality and model servanthood more than teach a doctrine, inform, or help people become active in church. This method really combines two disciplines: role modeling and teaching. However, the focus is not on curriculum but rather on the life and example of those who lead. It is not so much what is being taught as who is teaching. The early church did not have a textbook from which they could teach. Instead, disciples watched what their mentors did and how they lived. Modeling is at the heart of any form of legitimate discipleship. Jesus practiced this form of discipleship. He lived with His disciples for quite a while before He sent them out into the world to minister on their own.

Small Groups
The focus is more on relationships, intimate community, and accountability (provoking one another to love and good works). Leaders are taught to
establish solid relationships and to build biblical community. Here again, modeling and behavior are the keys to discipleship. These groups have a curriculum, but it is not the most important aspect of their activities.

Long-Term Ongoing Courses
A long-term course should be developed encompassing two to five years. Sunday school classes can be used for some of this training. Retreats could be used to channel believers into servant roles.

New Beginning Ministry Opportunities
Cutting edge congregations are developing entry level ministries for new
people. The focus is to begin to disciple newcomers as soon as possible. They emphasize the joy of serving as opposed to merely learning about it.

Sunday School
Sunday school is usually seen as the teaching or instruction side of disciple making, and, as such, it fills a necessary role. There are innovative ways to include the modeling as well as the teaching aspect. If we place discipleship training at the core of Sunday school, we would see a more powerful Sunday school and more and better disciples.