"The Gospel flows best on the wings of relationships."
Neil Cole, author of ORGANIC CHURCH, Growing Faith Where Life Happens
Develop disciples through natural networks. These networks already have a foundation of loving trust that will effectively evolve into relationships that promote open accountability and ease of sharing real life experiences with one another.
Develop the perspective forged from the parable of the good seed and the good soil. (Mark 4) This parabolic principle is paramount to how and with whom we invest our time and life. When the gospel or good seed falls on good soil or on one's life, it will produce things of the Spirit that cannot be controlled spiritually or numerically. Investing in this type of condition guarantees kingdom results of at least 30, 60, and 100 percent. We do not ignore the development of other relationships, but we pay more attention to those who will duplicate the Great Commission at the above rates mentioned.
Develop the kingdom mentality of Christ as it relates to evangelism and discipleship:
- Beseech the Lord of the harvest to send out workers into the harvest. Matt. 9:37-38
- See the multitudes like the Lord of the harvest, with compassion for them because they are downcast and distressed, without a shepherd to guide them. Matt. 9:36
- Look on the fields, that they are ripe and white for harvest. John 4:34-38.
- Consider the paradox of the death of a grain of wheat. It results in kingdom growth and service, fruit that lasts and bears other fruit. John 12:24-26
- Remember the "faith of a child" approach when embarking upon making disciples. Mark 9:36-37
- Take seriously the call to go into all the world, the highways and hedges of humanity, and compel others to come in, "that His house may be filled." Luke 14:23
- Above all else, practice kingdom etiquette, love one another. "By this all men will know that you are my disciples, if you have love for one another." John 13:35
Develop your passions, gifts and talents, which are the natural means to a supernatural end. Whether it is a love for the arts, sports and recreation, educational interests, or hobbies, let these be used as door openers for the beginning of making disciples. As each person is being discipled, the goal is for that person to then go on to disciple others.
The evidence of what we believe when it comes to understanding the greatest call to the greatest cause, will be our pursuit of what Jesus did himself-disciple others.
