What does the Bible say about making disciples?

Making disciples is a central tenet of the Christian faith and is deeply rooted in the teachings of Jesus Christ. The concept of discipleship is not only a commandment but also a transformative process that involves teaching, nurturing, and guiding individuals to become followers of Christ. The Bible provides a comprehensive framework for understanding the role of making disciples, primarily through the Great Commission, the early church's practices, and the teachings of the apostles.

The most explicit command regarding making disciples is found in the Great Commission, recorded in the Gospel of Matthew. Jesus, after His resurrection, appeared to His disciples and gave them this directive:

"Go therefore and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit, teaching them to observe all that I have commanded you. And behold, I am with you always, to the end of the age." (Matthew 28:19-20, ESV)

This passage encapsulates the essence of discipleship. It involves going out to all nations, baptizing believers, and teaching them to obey Christ's commands. The Great Commission emphasizes that discipleship is not a passive activity but an active and ongoing process.

The book of Acts provides a vivid portrayal of how the early church embraced this mandate. The apostles, empowered by the Holy Spirit, began to preach the Gospel and make disciples. One of the most significant moments is Peter's sermon on the day of Pentecost, where about three thousand people were baptized and added to the church (Acts 2:41). This event marked the beginning of a community devoted to the apostles' teaching, fellowship, breaking of bread, and prayers (Acts 2:42).

The process of making disciples involves several key components:

1. Preaching and Teaching the Gospel: The apostles consistently preached the message of Christ's death and resurrection. Paul, in his letter to the Romans, underscores the importance of preaching for faith to arise:

"How, then, can they call on the one they have not believed in? And how can they believe in the one of whom they have not heard? And how can they hear without someone preaching to them?" (Romans 10:14, NIV)

1. Baptism: Baptism is a significant step in the discipleship process as it symbolizes the believer's identification with Christ's death, burial, and resurrection. It is an outward expression of an inward faith and commitment to follow Jesus.

2. Teaching Obedience: Discipleship involves teaching new believers to observe all that Jesus commanded. This includes not only understanding His teachings but also applying them in daily life. Jesus emphasized the importance of obedience in His parable of the wise and foolish builders (Matthew 7:24-27).

3. Community and Fellowship: The early church demonstrated the importance of community in the discipleship process. Believers met regularly for fellowship, breaking of bread, and prayer. This communal aspect provided support, accountability, and encouragement for growth in faith.

4. Mentorship and Example: Paul often spoke of the importance of following his example as he followed Christ (1 Corinthians 11:1). Discipleship involves mentoring and modeling Christ-like behavior. This personal investment in others' spiritual growth is crucial for effective discipleship.

The role of the apostles in making disciples was foundational for the early church and continues to be a model for contemporary Christian practice. Their commitment to preaching, teaching, and living out the Gospel laid the groundwork for the spread of Christianity throughout the world.

In addition to the New Testament, Christian literature also provides valuable insights into discipleship. Dietrich Bonhoeffer, in his seminal work "The Cost of Discipleship," emphasizes the sacrificial nature of following Christ. He famously stated, "When Christ calls a man, he bids him come and die." Bonhoeffer's perspective highlights that true discipleship requires a willingness to forsake personal ambitions and embrace the call to live for Christ.

Dallas Willard, in "The Great Omission," critiques the contemporary church's neglect of discipleship. He argues that the church often focuses on making converts rather than disciples. Willard calls for a return to intentional and relational discipleship, where believers are nurtured in their faith and equipped to disciple others.

Moreover, the concept of making disciples is not limited to the New Testament. The Old Testament also provides principles that underpin discipleship. For instance, Deuteronomy 6:4-9, known as the Shema, instructs the Israelites to love the Lord with all their heart, soul, and strength and to teach these commands diligently to their children. This passage underscores the importance of passing on faith through intentional teaching and living out God's commands.

The role of making disciples extends beyond individual efforts to the collective mission of the church. The church, as the body of Christ, is called to be a disciple-making community. Ephesians 4:11-13 speaks of the various roles within the church, such as apostles, prophets, evangelists, pastors, and teachers, given to equip the saints for the work of ministry and to build up the body of Christ. This collective effort ensures that the church grows in maturity and unity, reflecting Christ's fullness.

Furthermore, making disciples is not confined to a specific geographical location. The Great Commission calls for making disciples of all nations, emphasizing the global nature of this mandate. The book of Revelation provides a glimpse of the ultimate fulfillment of this mission, where people from every tribe, language, and nation worship before the throne of God (Revelation 7:9).

In practical terms, making disciples today involves various strategies and approaches. It includes formal teaching through sermons, Bible studies, and educational programs. It also involves informal settings such as small groups, one-on-one mentorship, and everyday interactions. The goal is to create an environment where believers can grow in their faith, develop their gifts, and be equipped to disciple others.

In conclusion, the Bible provides a comprehensive and compelling vision for making disciples. It is a commandment rooted in the Great Commission, exemplified by the early church, and reinforced by Christian literature. Making disciples involves preaching the Gospel, baptizing believers, teaching obedience, fostering community, and mentoring others. It is a collective mission of the church, extending to all nations, and requires intentional and relational efforts. As followers of Christ, we are called to embrace this mandate, investing in the spiritual growth of others and advancing the Kingdom of God.