Bringing Friends on the Journey
Five Traits of a Disciplemaker
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In the Great Commission, Jesus calls his followers to “go and make disciples of all nations” (Matthew 28:19). That call is meant for us, too, and it shows that as Christians we’re not just invited to be disciples of Jesus, but disciplemakers for Him as well. Consider this resource a road map for how to assess your spiritual growth and how to invest meaningfully in the lives of people you care about.
1. JESUS
Demonstrates a passion to know, love and become like Christ
Disciplemakers are followers of Jesus who have a passion to know and love Him. They are purposeful to deepen their intimacy with Him. Their personal ministry to friends and family overflows from time alone with Jesus. The focus of this trait is more than just knowing about God; it’s about knowing Him personally and walking deeply with Him.
2. THE WORD
Knows and lives from the Scriptures
Disciplemakers can accurately handle the Word of God. They know how to read it, study it, talk about it and pass it on to others. A disciplemaker understands the truth and sufficiency of the Word as a guide for all aspects of life.
3. COMMUNITY
Pursuing Biblical community
The Lord designed us to walk with Him in community with others. Disciplemakers will be intentional to seek, pursue and create community among believers to spur each other toward love and good deeds. Biblical community includes family as well as extended communities of followers of Christ. Biblical community also draws those without Christ to the Lord (John 13:33-34).
4. THE LOST
Lives among those who do not know or follow Christ
Disciplemakers spend quality time among those who are without Christ. They will be purposeful to love, serve and help them understand the gospel. They are marked by a strong commitment to the Great Commission (Matthew 28:19) and a strong compassion for the brokenness of those without Christ. Disciplemakers proclaim and affirm the gospel with both their words and their lives.
5. SPIRITUAL GENERATIONS
Advancing the Gospel through spiritual generations
Disciplemakers are personally involved with helping others move closer to Christ as Savior and Lord. They meet Life-to-Life® to help non-believers understand who Jesus claims to be, and to establish young believers in their faith. Disciplemakers may lead groups of others in studying and applying the Word. Anything that helps others move closer to Christ is discipleship. Disciplemakers help others catch a vision for investing in the spiritual growth of friends, creating a ripple effect of new spiritual generations who follow Jesus.