The role of a pastor in disciple-making is to lead the way and build a culture where disciple-makers are the rule, not the exception. That means being the first to make disciples, using the church to connect people with mentors, measuring and celebrating what matters, eliminating programs that distract from the mission, and never giving up. Here are five pastor essentials.
1. Be the First to Make Disciples
If you don’t set the example, no one will follow. Paul could invite people to imitate him because he was imitating Jesus.
1 Corinthians 11:1 Follow my example, as I follow the example of Christ.
Pastors can’t ask their people to do something they aren’t doing themselves. When was the last time you walked with someone through the basics of faith? Your example gives everyone else permission to try.
2. Leverage the Church for Handoffs
The church gathering is a great place to make connections. Always be looking to connect people with disciple-makers.
2 Timothy 2:2 And the things you have heard me say in the presence of many witnesses entrust to reliable people who will also be qualified to teach others.
A “handoff” happens when a pastor or leader connects someone who wants to grow with a mature believer who can walk with them. Classes, groups, and Sunday services can all become places for handoffs. (See How Do I Make a Mentoring Handoff as a Pastor?)
3. Measure and Celebrate
Churches have always measured what matters, and what they celebrate, they elevate. If you only count attendance and giving, that’s what your people will think matters most. Try tracking the 3 E’s (engage, establish, empower) and telling stories of people who come full circle. (See Tracking Disciple-Making with Planning Center)
4. Eliminate Sideways Energy
Every church has programs and sacred cows that once served a purpose but no longer drive toward the vision. They drain time, money, and volunteers. Pastors have to lovingly but clearly eliminate what isn’t helping people become disciple-makers. (See Eliminating Sideways Energy)
5. Never Give Up
Building a discipleship culture is harder than you think, but it’s worth the effort. Remember Jesus’ promise at the end of the Great Commission: “Surely I am with you always, to the very end of the age” (Matthew 28:20). Start with a few faithful people, take them through The Pursuit, and then release them to make disciples. (Want help? Request a PursueGOD consultant.)
The Takeaway
A pastor’s role is to lead the way in disciple-making: go first, make handoffs, measure and celebrate what matters, eliminate distractions, and keep going. Over time, that builds a culture where disciple-makers are normal.
