If we’re going to follow Jesus’ agenda as disciplemaking teachers we’re taking on a role that requires an investment. The beginning words of Jesus’ Great Commission to “go and make disciples” suggest an active role in the process. Going suggests movement. To make something requires hands-on involvement.
Why an Investment Is Needed to Make Disciples
Look at the end result — disciples. The Great Commission takes believers from conversion to being followers of Jesus. Consequently, as disciplemaking teachers we teach for more than head knowledge. We teach for changed lives.
- That takes careful planning of the lesson to make sure we get beyond the content to helping students see the implications and application for their lives.
- That takes faithfully and regularly praying for students in advance of the lesson that they have receptive hearts and after the lesson that God’s Spirit would guide them in putting it into practice.
- That takes follow-up outside of class-time to encourage and spur students on.
To help students become fully devoted followers of Jesus, disciples, we may need to adjust our schedules and sacrifice some time for that to happen.
Learn more about the kind of investment we must be willing to make as disciplemakers in the Bible Teacher’s Role Download which also looks at other aspects of disciplemaking. In addition, this resource looks at seven other roles teachers who want to make a real impact may need to assume.
Also Check Out: Discipleship: Isn’t teaching a lesson enough? Worksheet