If you're going to make disciples, you'd better get the product straight! Full circle followers of Jesus are marked by three things.
Key Points:
- We start by trusting Jesus. This requires a work of God – it’s the Holy Spirit’s job to convict people of their need for him. Acts 2:36-37, John 16:8
- We live to honor God. This requires a heart of submission – elevating God’s truth above your own opinions or feelings. John 6:60-67
- We mature by helping others. This calls for boldness – a willingness to step out of your comfort zone and engage with someone far from God. Matthew 10:31-32, Acts 1:8, Acts 4:29-31
Talk About It
- What’s your initial reaction to this topic?
- How do you think most churches would describe a disciple?
- Make a list of words or concepts associated with “trusting Jesus”. Do the same for “honoring God”.
- Consider the marks of a disciple. What percentage of people at your church could be found in each category (include those who haven’t yet trusted Jesus)?
- Read Ephesians 4:13-14. What does this say about the relationship between disciple-making and maturity?
- Read Matthew 28:19-20. Find the three marks of a disciple in this passage.
- Consider the marks of a disciple. Write the name of someone under each category.
