aith ife inistries

“Equipping Church Leaders Globally”

Discipleship
For Church Leaders
Trainer’s Manual

“Helping Church Leaders ‘Go And Make Disciples Of All Nations’.”

Matthew 28:19

 2017 by Barry Voss

FaithLife Ministries, Inc.
www.faithlifeministries.net
Phone: (770) 492-4903
Email: [email protected]

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 Introduction

This Trainer’s Manual has been developed to assist trainers in the teaching
of the FaithLife Ministries Discipleship For Church Leaders™ manual.
While trainers are free to train according to their own preferences and
understanding of this material, it is hoped that this guide will give you the
author’s perspective on how to best cover the material in this manual, and
the intent of the author in its development. We highly recommend that
trainers use this manual along with their own background and experience to
teach this material and its Biblical foundation.

FaithLife Ministries has been training church and ministry leaders in the
mission field since 1996. This manual grew out of our recognition from
several years working with church leaders in various countries of the lack of
good discipleship training material or resources. It was also apparent that
there was not much of this material even available or being taught at present.
Therefore, since many pastors and leaders in underdeveloped countries lack
the access to basic discipleship training materials, FaithLife Ministries has
developed this training manual to fill this need.

The material in this training manual has been designed to provide a basic
level of understanding and training in discipleship tools and techniques. It is
the author’s intent to provide a foundation for discipleship and to encourage
readers and students to apply these Biblical principles to each unique
situation as guided by the Holy Spirit.

 2017 by Barry Voss, FaithLife Ministries, Inc.

All rights reserved. No part of this publication may be reproduced, stored in a

retrieval system or transmitted in any way by any means, electronic, mechanical,
photocopy, recording, or otherwise, without the prior written permission of the
author, except as provided by Unites States copyright law. The exception is when
the material is used consistent with its design for local use (without any charge) in
which case liberal copying is permitted and encouraged.

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 About FaithLife Ministries

FaithLife Ministries was started in January, 2001 by Barry Voss and Kim
Star-Voss in order to provide ministry training and resources for church
leaders around the world. They have a calling and a passion for discipling,
equipping and training God’s people for ministry, particularly in parts of the
world where there is little access or finances for such resources. They have
been training pastors and children’s, youth, and adult ministry leaders in
various countries with an emphasis on developing ministry leadership skills.
Besides conducting training conferences and workshops, they create &
develop their own training materials and resources and endeavor to
encourage all believers to live a life of faith.

Kim was formerly the Children’s Discipleship Minister at Christ the

Shepherd Lutheran Church in Alpharetta, GA where she ministered to over
300 children and adults. In addition to her ministry background Kim also
worked for over 15 years as a manager of computer systems and projects in
several large corporations. Barry has been employed full-time in this
ministry since 2005 and also has over 20 years of business management
experience. He is an Elder and also involved in worship ministry at their
church. Kim and Barry have been married for over 40 years and have two
adult children and five grandchildren.

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 General Trainer Notes

1. The training manual is designed around 3 major themes: discipleship

foundations, discipleship principles, and discipleship for the church.

2. I would encourage you to use Biblical examples and illustrations

wherever possible, as it will reinforce the Scriptural foundation and
provide a common reference for all students.

3. Tell them that everything we teach is in the manual, along with all
Scriptures. It is meant to also be a reference book they can refer back to
after the training. It is theirs to keep, and they are permitted to make
copies to give to others.

4. Teaching and exercise times are suggestions. The important thing is to

balance the teaching with the application of the principles via small
group discussions, large group questions, and the exercises. Spending
too much time on only one aspect dilutes the effectiveness of the training.

5. At the end of each section I have provided review questions to test the
participants on what was taught. These can be done in a large group at
the end of each section or just before the beginning of the next section.
The idea is to make sure they understand the basics principles we are
teaching, and to reinforce them.

6. At the end of each section encourage each student to write down 4 action
points they will commit to do when they return home. This should be
done at the end of each section (or each day) so that at the end of the
training the students will each have 12 things they learned or will do
when they get back to their ministries.

7. Please email me at [email protected] with your feedback and

suggestions on anything that you learn when training this material. We
will consider it for future revisions and teaching development.

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Discipleship For Church Leaders

Table of Contents

Section 1: Discipleship Foundations

Chapter 1 Spiritual Reproduction

Chapter 2 Obedience
Chapter 3 Humility
Chapter 4 Stewardship

Section 2: Discipleship Principles

Chapter 5 Discipling Children

Chapter 6 Discipling Youth
Chapter 7 Discipling Men
Chapter 8 Discipling Women

Section 3: Discipleship for the Church

Chapter 9 Discipleship Planning

Chapter 10 Small Group Discipleship
Chapter 11 Mentoring Others
Chapter 12 Encouraging a Hunger for God

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 Section 1

Discipleship
Foundations

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 Chapter 1

Spiritual Reproduction

Purpose: The purpose of this chapter is to introduce the concept of

spiritual reproduction and the need to multiply ourselves.

Time Use: It should take about 60 minutes to cover the material.

Please allow another 15 minutes for the exercise.

Key Points: 1. The goal of every leader is to make disciples.

2. Spiritual reproduction has priorities.
3. Spiritual reproduction starts with leaders.

Notes: 1. Only disciples can make other disciples.

2. Modeling and participation are keys to discipleship.
3. Testimonies are an effective tool for discipleship.

“Therefore go and make disciples of all nations…”

Matthew 28:19

In Matthew 28:19 Jesus commands all His followers to “go and make
disciples of all nations.” This is the Great Commission and is the sole purpose
Read or paraphrase. of the Church. We are not told to go make church members, or purely invite
people to church with us. It goes far beyond that. It means that we will need
to invest ourselves in the lives of those we witness to for Christ, and bring to
His altar. However, we can’t possibly spend enough time with every church
member or visitor we encounter. Therefore, we will need to multiply
ourselves. We will need to make disciples who will make other disciples, and
so multiply our efforts and grow our churches. This is exactly what Paul told
Timothy in his second letter to him in chapter 2, verse 2, to teach others what
Tell them it essential he has been taught. Spiritual reproduction, then, is about making disciples. If
for church survival to we do not pass on our faith and the teachings of Jesus and the Bible, we are
reproduce our faith in one generation away from Christianity become non-existent. Our Christian
others. faith is not meant to be practiced in private. It is meant to be shared and given
away!

ASK: How many of you are actively reproducing yourself

today?

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 A. The goal of every believer is to make disciples.
The goal is not to
make church 1. To obey Jesus’ command in Matthew 28:19-20
members! a. To preach the gospel message of salvation
b. To teach His followers to obey His commands
Discipleship is the #1
priority of the church. 2. To grow the church
a. To reach this generation for Christ
b. To reach the nations for Christ
“And you will be my witnesses in Jerusalem, and in all
Judea and Samaria, and to the ends of the earth.” Acts
1:8

3. To influence the world

a. Shine His Light (“Let your light shine before men.” -
Matthew 5:16)
b. Be His hands and feet
You can’t give to 4. To pass on the faith to the next generation
others what you
yourself do not have. 5. Only disciples can make other disciples

B. Spiritual Reproduction has priorities

1. A believer must disciple one’s own family first

Spiritual reproduction
“If anyone does not know how to manage his own family,
begins in the family. how can he take care of God’s church?” – 1 Timothy 3:5

2. A believer disciples other church members second

a. To develop more leaders who will also make disciples
b. To grow God’s kingdom through multiplication

“Therefore, as we have opportunity, let us do good to all

people, especially those who belong to the family of
believers.” - Galatians 6:10

3. A believer disciples others last

a. Non-believers
b. Co-workers

C. Spiritual reproduction in the church starts with leaders.

Discipleship is a
“And the things you have heard me say in the presence of many
primary function of
witnesses entrust to reliable men who will also be qualified to teach
every church leader.
others.” - 2 Timothy 2:2

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 1. The primary focus of every church leader should be to make
disciples
a. It is not just to lead their ministry or direct its activities
b. It applies to every ministry leader (youth, worship, elder,
etc.)

2. Every leader is responsible for the faith of their followers

a. Incorporate Scripture into every meeting
b. Teach what it means or how it applies to their lives

3. Every leader must model Christ to their followers

D. The 8 Keys for effective discipleship.

Here are 8 keys for church leaders to effectively make disciples:

Without the desire to 1. Desire - A leader must have the desire to disciple others
see others grow in
faith, they likely “My dear children, for whom I am in the pains of childbirth
won’t. until Christ is formed in you.” – Galatians 4:19

a. You must want to see Christ formed in others

b. You must be willing to give it your time and effort

Without a plan success 2. Plan – A leader must develop a plan for discipleship
is more difficult.
“But the noble man makes noble plans, and by noble deeds
he stands.”- Isaiah 32:8

a. Set goals & measurements

b. Determine a process to use

To teach the Word a 3. Teach – A leader must teach the Word to others
leader must know the
Word. “All Scripture is God-breathed and is useful for teaching,
rebuking, correcting, and training in righteousness, so that
the man of God may be thoroughly equipped for every good
work.” - 2 Tim. 3:16-17

a. Tell & show others what God’s Word says

b. Lead a devotion before every meeting or activity
c. Develop a list of scriptural references for your ministry

4. Model – A leader must model Jesus to others

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Share a story about “Not lording it over those entrusted to you, but being
modeling Jesus. examples to the flock.” - 1 Peter 5:3

a. A leader must be an example to others

b. A leader must serve others (Matthew 20:28)

Be proactive and seek 5. Mentor – A leader should mentor others

others to mentor.
“Preach the Word; be prepared in season and out of season;
correct, rebuke and encourage – with great patience and
careful instruction.” - 2 Timothy 4:2

a. Identify a few people you can mentor

b. Spend time with those you mentor
c. Develop a process or program for mentoring others

People often learn best 6. Participation – A leader finds ways to get followers to participate
by doing and in ministry
participating.
“In the same way, faith by itself, if not accompanied by
action, is dead.” – James 2:17

a. Participation builds awareness of God

b. Serving others develops a heart for God
c. Involvement in ministry strengthens one’s faith

We often learn more 7. Testimonies – A leader uses testimonies often to encourage people
about God from how
he works in the lives “But in your heart set apart Christ as Lord. Always be
of others than simply prepared to give an answer to anyone who asks you to give
listening to a sermon. the reason for the hope that you have. But do this with
gentleness and respect.” – 1 Peter 3:15

a. Share what God is doing in the lives of His people

b. Encourage written or spoken testimonies in worship or
meetings

Small groups provide 8. Small Groups – A leader encourages followers to join small groups
trust and closeness to
enable open dialog. “Let us not give up meeting together, as some are in the habit
of doing, but let us encourage one another.”
– Hebrews 10:25

a. Allows for more intimate sharing

b. Builds accountability and mutual concern
c. Develops a spiritual support system

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The blessings of E. Spiritual reproduction is very rewarding.
seeing another person
come to, and grow, in “The harvest is plentiful but the workers are few. Ask the Lord of the
faith are incredible. Harvest, therefore, to send out workers into his harvest field.” –
Luke 10:2

1. You will be blessed

a. By seeing more dedicated workers for the harvest
b. By seeing ministry accomplished by others
c. By seeing more people involved in your ministry
d. By seeing strong families of faith in your church
e. By experiencing God using you to bless others

ASK: Does seeing others grow excite you or threaten you?

2. The people you disciple will be blessed.

a. With personal spiritual growth
b. By being in a more personal and intimate relationship with God
c. By serving others
d. By using their spiritual gifts for the Lord and the church
e. By experiencing God using them to bless others

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 Spiritual Reproduction Exercise
Purpose: To identify 1. What are some things you can do to disciple your family?
ways we can disciple
others and reproduce 1) _____________________________________________
ourselves.
2) _____________________________________________
Time: Allow 15 3) _____________________________________________
minutes for this
exercise 4) _____________________________________________
5) _____________________________________________
Format: To be done
individually by
participants 2. Who are some potential leaders you can disciple in your
ministry?

1) _____________________________________________
**If there is time, you 2) _____________________________________________
can ask several people 3) _____________________________________________
to share their answers
with the group. 4) _____________________________________________
5) _____________________________________________

3. What are the things you can do to train & equip them to make
disciples?

1) _____________________________________________
2) _____________________________________________
3) _____________________________________________
4) _____________________________________________
5) _____________________________________________

4. What are some things you can do to disciple others in your

ministry?

1) _____________________________________________
2) _____________________________________________
3) _____________________________________________
4) _____________________________________________
5) _____________________________________________

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 Chapter 2

Obedience

Purpose: The purpose of this chapter is to stress the importance of

obedience for the Christian leader.

Time Use: It should take about 60 minutes to cover the material.

Please allow another 15 minutes for the exercise.

Key Points: 1. We would often rather lead than follow.

2. It is often our own pride and doubt that prevents us from
being obedient.
3. Obedience leads to humility and submission.
4. Disobedience leads to pain and suffering.

Notes: 1. When we submit, God acts!

2. Blessings from God come through obedience.

Read Scripture. “Blessed are those who hear the Word of God and obey it.”
– Luke 11:28

In July 1976, Israeli commandos made a daring raid at an airport in Entebbe,

Read the story. Uganda, in which 103 Jewish hostages were freed. In less than 15 minutes, the
soldiers had killed all 7 of the kidnappers and set the captives free. As successful as
the rescue was, however, three of the hostages were killed during the raid. As the
commandos entered the terminal, they shouted in Hebrew, “Get down! Crawl!” The
Jewish hostages understood and lay down on the floor, while the guerillas, who did
not speak Hebrew, were left standing. Quickly the rescuers shot the upright
kidnappers.

But two of the hostages hesitated – perhaps to see what was happening – and were
also shot and killed. One young man was lying down and actually stood up when the
commandos entered the airport. He, too, was shot with the bullets meant for the
enemy. Had these three heeded the soldier’s command, they would have been freed
with the rest of the captives.

Salvation is open to all of us, but we must be obedient to Christ’s command to repent
and make Him Lord. Otherwise, like these hostages, we will perish with the
judgement meant for the Enemy!

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 Because God is the giver of all good things (James 1:17) and apart from Him
Read or paraphrase. we can do nothing (John 15:5), God is not impressed with our
accomplishments. What God is truly impressed with is our obedience.
Throughout the Old Testament God is continually frustrated by the
disobedience of the Israelites, His chosen people. He still longs for our
obedience today, just like any parent longs for the obedience of their children.
God is so pleased when we obey Him, His commands, and His Son Jesus. His
commands are designed to bless us, not to limit or harm us. They are for our
benefit. Consequently, as Luke 11:28 says, we are blessed by our obedience.
And as Jesus said in John 14:15, “if you love me you will obey what I
command.”

ASK: What are some reasons we are not obedient?

A. Introduction – Why are we not obedient?

1. We want to be our own boss

Men, particularly, tend a. We want to make our own choices
to have control issues. b. We want to be in control (i.e. – have the remote)
c. We are taught to be independent

2. It is often very hard to submit to others

Our Pride often gets in a. Others don’t know us or our desires
the way. b. Submission is thought of as weakness
c. We don’t like dealing with consequences of others
decisions

We think we know 3. We do not respect authority

better! a. We no longer trust or respect our leaders
 Government
 Business
 Church
b. Many leaders abuse their authority
c. Many people see leaders as the reason for their plight in life

B. Who are we told to obey?

1. God
a. Submit yourselves to God
“Submit yourselves, then, to God. Resist the devil and
he will flee from you.” - James 4:7

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 b. Listen to His Word and obey it
“Blessed are those who hear the Word of God and
obey it.” – Luke 11:28

In the New Testament 2. Jesus

Jesus gave 50 a. If you love Him you will obey Him
Commands. “If you love me, you will obey what I command.” –
John 14:15

b. Obedience comes from faith

“Through Him and for His name’s sake, we received
grace and apostleship to call people from among all
the Gentiles to the obedience that comes from faith.” -
Romans 1:5

Children often learn by 3. Parents

watching and imitating a. It is right
their parents. “Children, obey your parents in the Lord, for this is
right.”
- Ephesians 6:1

b. It pleases the Lord

“Children, obey your parents in everything, for this
pleases the Lord.” - Colossians 3:20

We are also told to 4. Leaders

obey other leaders. a. To make their work a joy
“Obey your leaders and submit to their authority.
They keep watch over you as men who must give an
account. Obey them so that their work will be a joy,
not a burden, for that would be of no advantage to
you.” – Hebrews 13:17

b. To win their favor

“Slaves, obey your earthly masters in everything; and
do it, not only when their eye is on you and to win
their favor, but with sincerity of heart and reverence
for the Lord.” – Colossians 3:22

We should always 5. Those in Authority

respect those in a. They were established by God
authority, even if we “Everyone must submit himself to the governing
disagree with them. authorities, for there is no authority except that which
God has established. The authorities that exist have
been established by God.”
– Romans 13:1

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 b. To do the will of God
“Slaves, obey your earthly masters with respect and
fear…Obey them not only to win their favor when
their eye is on you, but like slaves of Christ, doing the
will of God from your heart.”
- Ephesians 6:5a, 6

Give examples of each C. What causes us to be disobedient?

from your own life. 1. Doubt - We don’t trust the leader
a. We are not sure about their motives
b. We don’t agree with their judgement

2. Arrogance – We think we know better than they do

a. We believe that we have the right answer
b. We think we know more than they do

3. Selfishness – We want things done our way

a. We are unwilling to accept the ways of others
b. It’s our way or the highway

4. Pride – We want to be the one in control

a. We desire a stake in our own future
b. We don’t want our circumstances dictated by others

5. Fear – We are afraid of the outcome

a. We don’t like the potential impact on our lives
b. We don’t want to assume the risks of others

ASK: What else might cause us to disobey?

D. How can we become more obedient?

1. Deny self
a. Jesus said to take up our cross
“Then He said to them all; if anyone would come after
Galatians 5:16-17 me, he must deny himself and take up his cross daily
Being “in the flesh” and follow me.”
prevents us from – Luke 9:23
obedience.
b. Turn out hearts towards His statutes
“Turn my heart toward your statutes and not toward
selfish gain.” – Psalm 119:36

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 c. Seek first His Kingdom
“But seek first His Kingdom and His Righteousness,
and all these things will be given to you as well.” –
Matthew 6:33

2. Serve others
We cannot serve
a. Serve one another in love
others if we are too
“You, my brothers, were called to be free. But do not
busy serving
use your freedom to indulge in the sinful nature;
ourselves.
rather, serve one another in love.” – Galatians 5:13

b. To gain assurance in one’s faith

“Those who have served well gain an excellent
standing and great assurance in their faith in Christ
Jesus.” – 1 Timothy 3:13

c. To be great in the Kingdom

“Not so with you. Instead, whoever wants to be great
among you must become your servant.” – Matthew
20:26

3. Study the Word and apply it

We must train
a. To train in righteousness
ourselves!
“All Scripture is God-breathed and is useful for
(1 Corinthians 9:27)
teaching, rebuking, correcting and training in
righteousness, so that the men of God will be
thoroughly equipped for every good work.”
- 2 Timothy 3:16-17

b. To keep your way pure

Be a student and doer
“How can a young man keep his way pure? By living
of the Word.
according to your word.” - Psalm 119:9

c. To gain understanding
“Give me understanding, and I will keep your law and
obey it with all my heart.” - Psalm 119:34

4. Seek God’s Wisdom through Prayer

a. Ask God for help
“Do not be anxious about anything, but in everything,
by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present
your requests to God.”
– Philippians 4:6

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 b. He will help you
“May He give you the desire of your heart and make
all your plans succeed.” – Psalm 20:4

E. Why should we be obedient?

1. To avoid pain and suffering
Obedience leads to
a. Our ways lead to death
God’s protection.
“There is a way that seems right to a man, but in the
end it leads to death.” – Proverbs 14:12

b. Our foolishness leads to harm

“He who walks with the wise grows wise, but a
companion of fools suffers harm.” – Proverbs 13:20

2. To develop patience and endurance

a. Bearing fruit for God
“And we pray this in order that you may live a life
worthy of the Lord and may please Him in every way;
bearing fruit in every good work, growing in the
knowledge of God.” – Colossians 1:10

b. To have hope
“Not only so, but we also rejoice in our sufferings,
because we know that suffering produces
perseverance; perseverance, character; and character,
hope.” – Romans 5:3-4

3. To do God’s will
Remember, we are
a. To be holy
called to do God’s
“It is God’s will that you should be holy.” - 1
will, not our own.
Thessalonians 4:3

b. To be equipped
“May the God of peace, who through the blood of the
eternal covenant brought back from the dead our
Lord Jesus, that great Shepherd of the sheep, equip
you with everything good for doing his will, and may
he work in us what is pleasing to Him, through Jesus
Christ, to whom be glory for ever and ever. Amen.”
– Hebrews 13:20-21

4. To receive God’s blessings

a. To be filled
“Blessed are those who hunger and thirst for
righteousness, for they will be filled.” – Matthew 5:6

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 b. To be set high above the nations
“If you fully obey the Lord your God and carefully
follow all his commands I give you today, the Lord
your God will set you high above all the nations on
earth. All these blessings will come upon you and
accompany you if you obey the Lord your God.”
- Deuteronomy 28:1-2

ASK: Can you think of any other reasons to be obedient?

God desires to bless each and every one of us with His blessings that are
John 14:21 (He who endless and bountiful. To receive them, we need to be obedient to him. We
loves me will be loved have his Word and his commands, and even though it will be hard, He has
by my Father, and I given us His Holy Spirit to help us. Let’s commit ourselves to a life of
too will love him and obedience today – right now – and ask the Lord to show us His way, every
show myself to him) day, so that we may not perish with the Enemy, but receive his abundant
blessings.

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Purpose: To evaluate
Obedience Self-Evaluation
ourselves on our
obedience. 1. Why do you disobey God?
Time: Allow 15 Instructions: Score yourself on your disobedience according to the following scale:
minutes for this
exercise 0 = Never 1=Rarely 2=Sometimes 3=Frequently 4=Usually 5=Always

Format: To be done
individually by Reason Score
participants
 Doubt - Not enough trust _____
 Arrogance – I know better _____
 Selfishness – I want my way _____
**If there is time, you
can ask several people  Pride – I want control _____
to share their answers
with the group.  Fear – Afraid of outcome _____

2. Which reason is your highest score? ______________

a. Why?
______________________________________________

3. Which reason is your lowest score? _______________

a. Why?
_____________________________________________

4. What will you do to improve your obedience?

1. ________________________________________________
2. ________________________________________________
3. ________________________________________________
4. ________________________________________________
5. ________________________________________________

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 Chapter 3

Humility

Purpose: The purpose of this chapter is to discuss the importance of

humility and submission to God.

Time Use: It should take about 60 minutes to cover the material.

Please allow another 15 minutes for the exercise.

Key Points: 1. Humility is a command for all Christians.

2. Humility is a characteristic of Jesus.
3. Leaders must be humble.
4. Humility is difficult for us because of our sinful nature.

Notes: 1. Only the Holy Spirit can keep us humble.

2 Focus on God & others and not ourselves.

“Humble yourselves before the Lord, and He will lift you up.”
James 4:10

Read the introduction. God’s Word says in in Proverbs 8:13 that “I hate pride and arrogance.”
Those are pretty strong words but they echo the first commandment, which is
that we shall have no other gods before Him. God is our Creator, and the
Creator of everything, and so He is justifiably angry when we try to replace
Him with something else, usually ourselves. You see it is pride and arrogance
that causes us to think more highly of ourselves than we ought (Romans
12:3). It is our nature to take credit for things that truly belong to God. God
desires His children to be humble and to submit to Him. He also wants us to
submit to others just like His Son Jesus did. Perhaps the greatest example of
this in recent times is Mother Teresa, who selflessly gave of herself to the
poorest in India. Jesus also confirmed this when He said, “But many who are
first will be last, and the last first.” (Mark 10:31) To follow Jesus means
(Yes, self-confidence that we must deny ourselves, put away our pride, and be humble, just as He
was. Humility, therefore, is a foundational quality of being a disciple of Jesus.
is knowing your
capabilities. Humility
is not boasting about ASK: Can a person be humble AND self-confident?
them.)
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 A. Introduction

1. What is the definition of humility?

-According to Webster’s Dictionary, Humble means:

We cannot be humble if  not proud or haughty, not arrogant or assertive
we are prideful.  reflecting, expressing, or offered in a spirit of deference or
submission
 ranking low in a hierarchy or scale: insignificant,
“True humility is not unpretentious
thinking less of  not costly or luxurious
yourself, it is thinking
of yourself less.” 2. We have 3 questions to answer in this session:
– Rick Warren a. Why is humility important?
b. What does the Bible say about humility?
c. How can we live as humble people?

ASK: Why do you think humility is important?

B. Why Is Humility So Important?

1. For All People

Pride is always a matter a. Pride goes before the fall
of self- promotion. “Pride goes before destruction” – Proverbs 16:18

 You fall farther from a higher perch

 We set ourselves up for attack from others

b. Pride leads to arrogance, bigotry, and prejudice

 Others will not like you
 You hurt others by your words and actions

c. There will always be someone better than you

2. For Christians
“For it is by grace you have been saved, through faith – and
this is not from yourselves, it is the gift of God - not by works,
so that no one can boast.” - Ephesians 2:8-9
We did not, and cannot,
a. To recognize God, not ourselves, as responsible for our
save ourselves!
salvation
 We did nothing….He did everything!
 To avoid “works righteousness”

Page 22
 b. To recognize God, not ourselves, as responsible for our
We push God off the
achievements
throne of our lives
“So neither he who plants nor he who waters is anything,
when we take pride in
but only God, who makes things grow.” – 1 Corinthians
ourselves or in our
3:7
accomplishments.
 It’s the Holy Spirit working in and through us that
accomplishes God’s will
 We are merely instruments, not catalysts

c. To prevent us from boasting in our own efforts

 When we boast in ourselves we dishonor God
 When we say “I” it is God we deny!

d. A disciple must follow Jesus’ teachings and be humble like He

was

3. For Pastors & Leaders

“The important thing is that in every way, whether from false
motives or true, Christ is preached. And because of this I
rejoice.” – Phil. 1:18
God should always get
ALL of the credit. a. To enable others to see Jesus, not us
 Others can’t see Jesus when we are standing in the way
 It is God’s ministry, not ours
 Their salvation is dependent upon Jesus, not you

b. To lead as Jesus led

 Jesus glorified God, not himself
 Jesus came to serve, not to be served (Matthew 20:28)

c. To keep them from falling into sin

 As leaders you will be targets (2 Timothy 3:12)
 The devil wants to devour you (1 Peter 5:8)

d. To prevent them from leading others astray

 You are responsible for others (Matthew 18:6-7)
 Do not compromise the truth (2 Timothy 4:3)

ASK: What do you personally take great pride in?

Page 23
 C. What Does the Bible say about Humility?

1. There is a drastic difference between Scripture and the “World”

The World says… The Bible says…

We should not be like If it’s to be it’s up to ME God makes things grow (1 Cor. 3:6-
the world (1 John 7)
2:15) The squeaky wheel gets the grease God rewards the faithful (Ephesians
6:8)
The one who dies with the most toys Give everything you have to the poor
wins (Luke 18:22)
The early bird catches the worm The last shall be first (Matthew
20:16)
With leadership comes POWER With leadership comes
RESPONSIBILITY
(1 Peter 5:2)
Take pride in your accomplishments Give glory to God in all you do (1
Cor. 10:31)

2. Why is humility so difficult for us?

a. It is not in our nature

 Conflict between sinful and spiritual natures (Galatians
We desperately crave 5:17)
significance and will  Paul’s thorn in his flesh (2 Corinthians 12:7-10)
often say things to
bolster our confidence b. We are selfish and self-concerned
and self-assuredness.  We must look out for #1 (ourselves)
 “If it’s to be it’s up to me!” mentality
Conversely, we only c. We do not value others
see our own strengths  We see only others weaknesses, not their strengths
and not our
 We value or give credence to what we know and have
weaknesses.
observed ourselves

d. We do not trust God’s Word

How much do you
 We somehow think His Word applies to others and not us
trust God? Have you
ever been put to that  We doubt His promises
test?

Page 24
 D. How Can We Live as Humble People?

“He has showed you, o man, what is good. And what does the Lord
require of you? To act justly and to love mercy and to walk humbly
with your God.” Micah 6:8
Only the Holy Spirit
can make us humble.
1. Pray for the Holy Spirit to give you humility
2. Avoid saying “I” did, say “God” did.
Beware of false 3. Think of others first
humility (being proud  Let their needs be your motivation
of one’s humbleness)
 Be a servant leader
4. Give credit to God and others, never yourself

E. Some Final Thoughts

1. We must always give God credit and glory for anything we

If we value the culture
accomplish
(world) we are in
2. We must be careful not to encourage the self-pride in others
trouble.
3. We must not succumb to the culture’s definition(s) of success
4. We are Christ’s ambassadors, not Christ (2 Corinthians 5:20)

“Humble yourselves, therefore, under God’s mighty hand,

that He may lift you up in due time.”
1 Peter 5:6

Page 25
 Humility Exercise
Purpose: To evaluate
ourselves on our Below is a list of questions about humility. Read each one carefully,
humility. then, using the following scale, decide the extent to which it actually
applies to you. For best results, answer as truthfully as possible.
Time: Allow 15
minutes for this
exercise never rarely sometimes often usually always
0 1 2 3 4 5
Format: To be done
individually by
participants 1. _______ When people disagree with you, do you feel you
need to argue and prove your position?
2. _______ Are you hurt when those you dislike are honored?
3. _______ Do you find it difficult to admit you are wrong?
4. _______ Do you enjoy sharing about your
accomplishments?
5. _______ Do you do things for praise and compliments?
6. _______ Do you accept praise rather than deflecting it?
7. _______ Do you get angry when you do not receive credit
you are due?
8. _______ Are you quick to correct others when they make
mistakes?
9. _______ Are you more concerned about your reputation
than God's?
10. _______ Do you compare yourself to others rather than
God?
.

Total: ________ (add the scores together)

Discuss the results. Total Score Meaning

Ask for a show of 40+ You are generally arrogant and prideful and not concerned about
hands for each
category. others.
30-40 You are often conceited and rarely consider the needs of others.
20-29 You exhibit humility at times but sometimes consider your own
needs above others.
10-19 You are reasonably humble and often defer to the needs of others.
0-9 You are extremely humble and focused on the needs of others.

Page 26
 Chapter 4

Stewardship

Purpose: The purpose of this chapter is to discuss the importance of

stewardship and how to motivate it as leaders.

Time Use: It should take about 60 minutes to cover the material.

Please allow another 15 minutes for the exercise.

Key Points: 1. God owns everything, but we manage it.

2. God is the true motivator, not us.
3. Stewardship flows out of discipleship.
4. Giving often results from awareness.

Notes: 1. Stewardship is a response, not a prerequisite.

2. Allow the Holy Spirit to do its work.

“Give, and it will be given to you. A good measure, pressed down, shaken
together and running over, will be poured into your lap. For with the
measure you use, it will be measured to you."
Luke 6:38

It seems that one of the hardest things for church and ministry leaders to do is
Read the introduction. to motivate people to serve the Lord with their time, talents and treasures.
Some people are too busy, some do not feel that they have anything to offer,
and yet others are simply not interested in investing their time or resources in
the Lord’s work, preferring to “leave it to the professionals.” As one digs
deeper into God’s Word there is no doubt that all of us have gifts we can use
to further God’s kingdom, that God calls us to serve Him and others, and that
we are all part of His purpose and plan. If that’s true, then why do so many
Christians fail to honor God with their time and resources? It is important
that we first recognize our role as stewards of what God owns and has given
to us to manage for Him. Then, as we learn to become his disciple,
stewardship naturally flows out of our love and desire for Him and His
purpose in our lives.

ASK: Are you satisfied with the level of stewardship at

your church? Why or why not?

Page 27
 A. What is Stewardship?

*From the dictionary 1. By definition it is resource management

a. the office, duties, and obligations of a steward
b. the conducting, supervising, or managing of something
c. Ask for examples c. the careful and responsible management of something
(e.g. family, church) entrusted to one's care

2. God owns, we manage

a. God created everything – Genesis 1:1
b. Everything we have comes from God

“Every good and perfect gift is from above, coming down

from the Father of heavenly lights, who does not change like
shifting shadows.”
– James 1:17

3. Jesus taught several parables about stewardship

This is important! a. Parable of the Talents – Matthew 25:14-30

 Principle #1 – You will have to account for what you did
with what God gave you
 Principle #2 – Whoever has, more will be given to him
(verse 29)

b. Parable of the Wise Manager – Luke 12:35-48

 Principle #1 – Be watchful and ready! (verse 40)
 Principle #2 – Whoever is entrusted with much, much will
be expected (verse 48)

c. Parable of the Shrewd Manager – Luke 16:1-13

 Principle #1 – Whoever can be trusted with little can be
trusted with much (verse 10)
 Principle #2 – You cannot serve both God and money
(verse 13)

Money, time and 4. Stewardship is not about “if” or “when”, but “how”
talents a. As disciples, we are called to give (Matthew 22:21)
b. God calls us to give cheerfully (2 Corinthians 9:7)
c. God calls us to give sacrificially (Matthew 19:21)
d. God calls us to give generously (Romans 12:8)

Page 28
 B. We Must Recognize that God is the True Motivator

1. We can encourage, but only God can produce

“I planted the seed, Apollos watered it, but God made it grow. So
neither he who plants nor he who waters is anything, but only
God, who makes things grow.” -1 Corinthians 3:6-7
Stewardship is a
response, not a 2. God acted, we respond
prerequisite “We love because he first loved us.” - 1 John 4:19

3. All we have comes from God

“Every good and perfect gift is from above, coming down from
the Father of the heavenly lights, who does not change like
shifting shadows.”
- James 1:17

4. Giving is a joy and a blessing

“In everything I did, I showed you that by this kind of hard work
we must help the weak, remembering the words the Lord Jesus
himself said: `It is more blessed to give than to receive.'" – Acts
20:35

5. Recognize That We Were Created For a Purpose

“Each one should use whatever gift he has received to serve
others, faithfully administering God’s grace in its various
forms." – 1 Peter 4:10

a. We are gifted by God

1 Corinthians 12:7
b. We are called to use our gifts to serve the Body of Christ
(Now to each one the
c. We need to know what our gifts are to use them
manifestation of the
Spirit is given for the
common good)
C. Stewardship Flows Out of Discipleship

1. There is conflict between human nature and spiritual nature

“For the sinful nature desires what is contrary to the Spirit, and
the Spirit what is contrary to the sinful nature. They are in
conflict with each other, so that you do not do what you want.” -
Galatians 5:17

a. We need to deny our sinful nature that produces greed and

Key point!-->
selfishness
b. We need to develop the spiritual nature that produces service and
sacrifice

Page 29
 2. God’s ways need to be taught
“All Scripture is God-breathed and is useful for teaching,
rebuking, correcting and training in righteousness.” – 2
Timothy 3:16

We can’t do the Word a. All believers must be encouraged to read & study God’s Word
if we don’t know the  Structured classes
Word!  Daily Bible reading
 Daily devotions

b. All Believers need to be trained in righteousness

 To be obedient to His commands
 To live holy lives

c. All Believers need to develop a Biblical worldview

James 4:8 (Draw near 3. As we draw closer to God, stewardship naturally takes place
to God and He will
draw near to you) a. As we study His Word we become convicted to serve Him
“How much more, then, will the blood of Christ, who through
the eternal Spirit offered himself unblemished to God,
cleanse our consciences from acts that lead to death, so that
we may serve the living God!” – Hebrews 9:14

b. As we grow in faith, our works should demonstrate that

“But someone will say, "You have faith; I have deeds."
Show me your faith without deeds, and I will show you my
faith by what I do.”
– James 2:18

Discipleship creates 4. Discipleship creates an awareness of the need to give to God and
conviction and that others
creates action. “But just as you excel in everything – in faith, in speech, in
knowledge, in complete earnestness and your love for us – see
that you also excel in this grace of giving.” – 2 Corinthians
8:7

a. God’s Word never demands, it always encourages

b. The deeper the relationship to God, the greater awareness of His
grace

ASK: What would happen in your church if every member

was a disciple?

Page 30
 D. Giving Often Results from Awareness

People don’t give if 1. Let people know the needs so they can give in response
they don’t know there a. Publicize your needs for people, skills, or money
is a need. b. Use testimonies to share the reason for the need
c. Don’t be afraid to ask for help
“You do not have, because you do not ask God.” – James 4:2

2. Allow the Holy Spirit to do its work

Pray for people to a. Give people time to consider their response
respond as the Lord b. Let the Holy Spirit convict people to serve or give, not you
leads them.  Don’t make people feel guilty
 Do not beg
 Do not chastise or threaten people

3. Encourage people to pray about needs

a. When they talk to God, He talks to them
b. The Holy Spirit, when summoned, responds

E. Conclusion

1. Stewardship is a response, not a prerequisite

a. Stewardship flows from a response to the grace each one feels
b. Stewardship does not produce faith – faith produces stewardship

2. Discipleship will lead to stewardship

a. Allow the Word of God to do its work
b. Teach people the Word of God, and stewardship will automatically
follow

Be open to new 3. Let the Holy Spirit fill your needs through the people He touches
ministries & new ideas a. Do not assume you know where the resources will come from
b. Be ready and willing to receive what the Holy Spirit provides

Page 31
 Stewardship Exercise
Purpose: To identify
things we can do to
motivate stewardship.
List the things you can do to motivate the stewardship of others:
Time: Allow 15
minutes for this
exercise
1. ____________________________________________________________
Format: To be done
individually by 2. ____________________________________________________________
participants
3. ____________________________________________________________

4. ____________________________________________________________

**If there is time, you 5. ____________________________________________________________

can ask several people
to share their answers 6. ____________________________________________________________
with the group.
7. ____________________________________________________________

8. ____________________________________________________________

9. ____________________________________________________________

10. ____________________________________________________________

Page 32
Purpose: To make Section 1 Review Questions
sure they have
grasped the key
teachings of this first
1. Spiritual reproduction starts with who?
section of the
A: Leaders.
manual.
2. What are the 8 keys for effective discipleship?
A: Desire, Plan, Teach, Model, Mentor, Participation, Testimonies
and Small Groups.
Time: Allow 10
3. Who does the Bible tell us to obey (there are 5)?
minutes for this.
A: God, Jesus, Parents, Leaders, and those in Authority.
4. How do we become more obedient?
Format: This can be
A: Deny self, Serve others, Study the Word, and Pray.
done in a large group.
5. Why must a Christian be humble?
A: To recognize God for what we do and not ourselves.
Give them time to
6. What are 4 reasons humility is difficult for us?
think and respond to
A: Sinful nature, selfishness, don’t value others, don’t trust God.
each question. Let
7. What is the key principle of stewardship?
them look up in
A: God owns and we manage.
manual if necessary,
8. What does stewardship flow out of?
but do not suggest
A: Discipleship.
that. Correct answers
are in red.

Page 33
 Section 2

Discipleship Principles

Page 34
 Chapter 5

Discipling Children

Purpose: The purpose of this chapter is to reinforce the importance of

ministry to children as the church of today & tomorrow.

Time Use: It should take about 60 minutes to cover the material.

Please allow another 15 minutes for the exercise.

Key Points: 1. Discipling children is more than just teaching Sunday

School.
2. Children should be taught according to their
developmental stage.
3. Leaders should develop faith milestones for children.

Notes: 1. Emphasize the need for making “little” disciples.

2. Children can be taught the same principles as adults but
at their level.

“People were bringing little children to Jesus for Him to place His hands on
them, but the disciples rebuked them. When Jesus saw this, He was
Read the Scripture and indignant. He said to them, “Let the little children come to me, and do not
reflect on how Jesus hinder them, for the kingdom of God belongs to such as these. Truly I tell
treated children. you, anyone who will not receive the kingdom of God like a little child will
never enter it.” And He took the children in His arms, placed His hands on
them and blessed them.”
Mark 10:13-16

Read the introduction. Jesus showed a great love for children. He also showed us a level of respect
Also, share the we should have for children, as models of faith. To teach children about Jesus
importance of spiritual and God’s Word is good, but to reach their hearts to “receive the Kingdom of
reproduction using God” is the goal! Children are often called the “church of tomorrow”. They
Psalm 78:4-6. are the church of the future, and if we lose them, we lose the church (or fail
the church). Yet children are also the “church of today”, and we must see
them as disciples of Jesus, as we all are.

A. God’s Purposes for Children’s Ministry

Children can be 1. “To make little disciples” – Matthew 28:19 is the great commission to
disciples too! “make disciples of all nations.” The Message Bible translation says
“Go and train everyone you meet, far and near, in this way of life…”
1 Timothy 2:4 tells us that God wants “all people to be saved and to
come to a knowledge of the truth.”

Page 35
 2. To have a special environment – a church home for all.
a. Sunday School is not like regular school – it’s a church family
b. This is important -> b. Children’s Ministry is not child care – it’s 100% ministry
Psalm 127:38 (treat
c. Teachers and parents aren’t the only instructors – Jesus is the
children as the reward
from God) example

3. In the church, all genders and ages need to be respected. This includes
children.
But when the chief priests and the teachers of the law saw the
wonderful things He did and the children shouting in the
temple courts, “Hosanna to the Son of David,” they were
indignant. “Do you hear what these children are saying?”
they asked Him. “Yes,” replied Jesus, “have you never read,
“‘From the lips of children and infants you, Lord, have
called forth your praise’?”
-Matthew 21:15-16 (Jesus is quoting Psalm 8:2)

ASK: What are some ways that adults can respect

children?

B. Teaching children in the church is so much more than a standard lesson

(tell a Bible Story, sing, take an offering). Key discipleship areas should
be included in the lesson.

1. Praise and Worship

Children are called to a. In some churches, it is common for parents to go to worship, while
worship God just as their children go to a class. About this, I once heard a Pastor say,
adults are “We have it reversed. Adults need education and children need to
worship!”
b. Based on Matthew 21:15-16 (above) even noisy times of
children’s energy, praise should be there to give glory to our Lord!

2. Bible Study
a. The Bible is always the best “curriculum” for any class of any age
Children’s Bibles can be group.
a great tool for parents b. Children should experience God’s Word. Act out Bible Stories
and discuss how the Bible Story applies to daily life.
c. Help children to begin to value and love the Bible. Inspire
children to turn to God’s Word for their worldview of life.

Page 36
 3. Praying with children
Teach children how to a. Don’t “just” pray over children. Explain prayer to them and learn
pray. Make it natural. about prayer from the Bible.
b. Use prayer formats that are child-friendly and helpful for growth in
prayer.
c. Learning to pray out loud by self and in front of others is a goal
with children.

4. Faith Sharing
a. All Christians have stories of faith, which are touches from the
Encourage children to Lord every day. Children should learn this, as well.
share their faith b. Children love to tell stories and talk about their families. A change
in focus is needed to look for stories of faith to share, and to give
God the glory.
c. Children need to learn the gospel message of the Good News of
Jesus to share as a testimony to others. We are never too young to
learn to share the gospel. As Jesus said,
“And this gospel of the kingdom will be preached in the
whole world as a testimony to all nations, and then the end
will come.”
Matthew 24:14

Ask and share: What 5. Other discipleship areas:

are some other a. Stewardship – teach children about tithing or have special
discipleship areas for offerings for mission purposes occasionally
Children’s Ministry? b. Mission projects – have children join their family in reaching out
to others in service and ministry
c. Fellowship – show children the importance of making friends with
the joy of faith in Jesus

ASK: What is the difference between teaching children

and adults?

C. “How children learn” is related to the development stages of children

and needs to be considered so that teaching children may be age-
appropriate.

1. As children grow, they are increasingly ready for more in-depth

teachings. A children’s ministry teacher must be ready to adjust
teachings to the development stage of the children.

Page 37
 2. Development stages of children’s learning should be added to a
discipleship plan for children.

3. Key points regarding “how children learn”:

a. Little children (ages 1-4)

Build the foundation  The faith foundation is being laid down from the beginning of
of faith with little life
children  Are self-centered – so encourage sharing with each other
 Live in fantasy as well as reality, and do not yet know the
difference – so emphasize the truth of Jesus and the Bible (e.g.
“Jesus is real”)
 Are naturally curious – so let them explore as they learn
 Are visual and concrete learners – be clear and use pictures and
visual helps
 Learn well by experiencing – act out a Bible Story

Use stories, praise and b. Young children (ages 5-7)

visual aids to help  The faith foundation is laid down during the first 7 years of life
young children learn – make impressions on the hearts of children, as that is most
lasting
 They like to feel proud – so give them some praise
 Are self-conscious – help them not to compare self to others.
God’s love is for all
 Have a short attention span – only about 5-7 minutes and move
on to another activity
 Interested in the present – do life application teaching
 Limited concept of time and space- keep visual aids clear and
simple
 Typically want to win and always be first – Play a Biblically-
based game where everyone can be a winner in Jesus

Allow older children c. Older children (ages 8-11)

to think and be
creative  Attention spans are much longer – they can be more absorbed
in the teaching
 Can think more for themselves
 Begin to show leadership capability – have them begin to lead
prayer and worship for younger children
 Better concept of past, present, and future – teach a Bible
timeline

Page 38
  Begin to understand symbolism, as used in the Bible – act out
parables of Jesus and discuss the meaning of the parable

D. Enhance lessons with Biblical Faith Milestones by age or grade level.

Develop milestones to Here are examples:
help children progress
1. Kindergarten (age 5) – Memorize the Lord’s Prayer
in their faith
knowledge. 2. Grade 1 (age 6) – Learn the Ten Commandments
3. Grade 2 (age 7) – Memorize the Apostles Creed
4. Grade 3 (age 8) – Learn the order of the New Testament Books
5. Grade 4 (age 9) – Learn the order of the Old Testament Books
6. Grade 5 (age 10) – Study a timeline of the Bible

Since my youth, God, you have taught me,

and to this day I declare your marvelous deeds.
Even when I am old and gray,
do not forsake me, my God,
till I declare your power to the next generation,
your mighty acts to all who are to come.
Psalms 71: 17-18

Proverbs 22:6
Inspire and encourage
parents to be spiritual
leaders for their
children.

Please note: Children’s teaching books are available from FaithLife

Mention this. Ministries. Electronic English copies of the books may be requested on our
website at: www.faithlifeministries.net

Page 39
 Discipling Children Exercise
Purpose: To develop a
plan for children’s Develop a planning sheet for discipling children in your church. Use key
discipleship. discipleship areas, as listed in the teaching, and other discipleship areas as you
may choose (and as the teaching also suggests). Separate the discipleship
Time: Allow 15 goals by age or grade in school.
minutes for this
exercise CHILDREN’s DISCIPLESHIP PLANNING

Format: To be done AGE of children and/or GRADE in school

individually by
participants
DISCIPLESHIP
GOAL
Worship

**If they are not able

to complete this
exercise that’s fine. Bible Study
They can complete it
as homework.

Prayer

Faith Sharing

_____________

_____________

_____________

Page 40
 Chapter 6

Discipling Youth

Purpose: The purpose of this chapter is to identify the essentials for

discipling youth in the church.

Time Use: It should take about 60 minutes to cover the material.

Please allow another 15 minutes for the exercise.

Key Points: 1. Youth ministry is not entertainment.

2. Discipling youth requires teaching and engagement.
3. Youth need to be taught the tough issues and how to
handle them.

Notes: 1. Emphasize Biblical principles, not church traditions.

2. Develop youth as leaders.
3. Provide adult support.

“I hope in the Lord Jesus to send Timothy to you soon, that I also may be
cheered when I receive news about you. I have no one else like him, who
will show genuine concern for your welfare. For everyone looks out for
their own interests, not those of Jesus Christ. But you know that Timothy
has proved himself, because as a son with his father he has served with me
in the work of the gospel.”
Philippians 2:19-22

Read the introduction. Timothy is young, according to 1 Timothy 4:12, (“Don’t let anyone look
(Youth are “in down on you because you are young“). Paul took this youth, Timothy, under
between” people – not his wing, teaching and nurturing him in the faith. Youth are young adults, and
children and not yet discipling youth is often overlooked, as children progress on to adulthood.
adults. They need Youth ministry (for age 12 through the teenage years), requires some special
special consideration.) attention, so that youth will come to Christ in a lasting way.

ASK: Can anyone define what youth ministry is?

A. Effective Youth Ministry

1. Youth Ministry is NOT:

This is important a. Entertainment
b. The best show in town
c. The best food in town
d. Mimicking the world’s way of doing things

Page 41
 2. Youth Ministry IS:
Have clear objectives a. Purposefully Driven, instead of Popularity Driven
for youth ministry. b. Purpose driven for three directions:
 UP – to put God first, in a personal relationship with Him, and
to give Him praise
 IN – to build relationships with one another to grow our faith in
Christ
 OUT – to seek opportunities to share our faith in Christ
c. Here are nine components of purpose driven youth events
1) The power of God is present
2) The purpose of God is evident
3) Reaching the correct potential audience
4) Programs show excellence in planning and purpose
5) The process to put programs together will keep the purpose in
mind
6) Planned values will be clear and consistent
7) Parents will be well informed and sometimes involved
8) Participating Leaders will be present and leading the joy
9) Perseverance and follow through are a must

B. Development of Young Adolescents

Young people in ages 10-15 undergo more rapid and profound personal
changes than any other time in their lives. (Growth in infancy is also
extensive, but infants are not conscious of their own development.) Some
areas of youth development are:

Understanding youth 1. Variability among their peers

development is the key a. Changes occur irregularly
to reaching youth b. Puberty is experienced at different times and different rates
c. Socioeconomic status awareness
d. Privileges are recognized
e. Ethnicity adds to diversity awareness or challenges
2. Develop concerns about appearance and body image
3. Desire for peer acceptance
4. Parents typically retain primary authority and continue as their source
of basic values
5. Patterns of thinking change – with capacity to think more on their own
6. The environment and media begin to have a greater influence over
their values

Page 42
 C. How Youth Learn
The foundation for faith (in God, or in something else), is laid down
during the first seven years of life. By the time students enter youth
ministry (around age 12), they will have a belief system basically
established, in their hearts and minds. Neuroscience research studies have
shown that youth learn well in five areas:

1. The youth needs to “feel OK” to learn effectively. Emotion is

Be in a good mood!
fundamental to learning for young people. Their emotions act as a
guide to lead them toward positive situations and away from negative
ones.

Make it relevant! 2. Youth find it easier to learn when the teaching matters to them. Brains
can shut down when students are taught information that is not
relevant to their own goals.

Use hands-on 3. It is easier for youth to learn when the environment is active. Active
activities. engagement in the teaching time is necessary for learning. Student’s
brains become passively exposed to information that is not alive to
them or that does not actively grab their attention. Participation in
learning, or “hands-on” learning, is helpful.

4. Youth need to work on their skills over time. The experiences of

Reinforce the teaching
youth, over time, gradually sculpt connections in their brains.
to produce good
habits. Connections used most often are strengthened and others are
weakened. Learning needs to be continually reinforced. As it is said –
“use it or lose it”.
“But as for you, continue in what you have learned and have
become convinced of, because you know those from whom
you learned it, and how from infancy you have known the
Holy Scriptures, which are able to make you wise for
salvation through faith in Christ Jesus.”
- 2 Timothy 3:14-15

Use adults as role 5. Youth learning requires regular support. Having support and
models to support and mentoring helps learning to be reinforced and to be adjusted to one’s
encourage youth. own personal experiences. Progress can be well assessed when
students are coached throughout the learning process. Encouragement
is also very necessary for the nurturing of their self-esteem.
“Don’t let anyone look down on you because you are young,
but set an example for the believers in speech, in conduct,
in love, in faith and in purity. Until I come, devote yourself
to the public reading of Scripture, to preaching and to

Page 43
 teaching. Do not neglect your gift, which was given you
through prophecy when the body of elders laid their hands
on you. Be diligent in these matters; give yourself wholly to
them, so that everyone may see your progress. Watch your
life and doctrine closely. Persevere in them, because if you
do, you will save both yourself and your hearers.” - 1
Timothy 4:12-16

D. Eternal Purposes of Discipling Youth

Christianity is a 1. To apply their Christian faith to every area of life.

lifestyle, not just a a. Worship – Praising God with word and music
belief system.
b. Prayer – Interacting personally with Christ
c. Fellowship – Building Christian friendships
d. Bible Study – Learning God’s Word and applying it to daily life
e. Ministry – Serving others so that God’s Love may be seen by all
f. Evangelism – Sharing the Gospel with non-Christians

2. To talk about the tough issues

Do not shy away from a. Benefits of healthy behavior (purity, fresh starts)
discussing tough
b. Risks and consequences of unhealthy behavior (drugs, alcohol,
issues. If the church
doesn’t, the culture sex, violence)
will! c. Emphasize the difference between temptation and sin
 Temptation is the devil knocking at the door
 Sin occurs when one opens the door and invites the devil in
 Share Scripture, such as:
“No temptation has overtaken you except what is
Also, James 1:13-15 common to mankind. And God is faithful; he will not
(God does not tempt let you be tempted beyond what you can bear. But
us) when you are tempted, he will also provide a way out
so that you can endure it.”
- 1 Corinthians 10:13
“Submit yourselves, then, to God. Resist the devil, and
he will flee from you.” - James 4:7

Good decision making d. To make good decisions, including:

prevents future  Good judgment (see Psalm 119:9,11)
problems! Overcome  Courage (see Philippians 4:13)
evil with good!  Honor (see Romans 12:9-11)
(Romans 12:21)  Self-control (see 1 Thessalonians 4:3,4)

Page 44
 3. To become leaders in the cause of Christ
Let youth lead youth a. Seek spiritual growth - learn first, and then teach others newer in
when possible. It is the faith.
important for youth to b. Have a servant heart – look for people and places that need help.
become leaders.
c. Build up people skills – be a good listener, promote cooperation,
and prevent problems.
d. Learn to lead worship, prayer, and Bible Study – youth-led
ministry
e. Youth are young disciples learning to become disciplers. The
Great Commission (in Matthew 28:19-20) becomes personal to
them: “Go and make disciples……teaching them to obey
everything I have commanded you…”

E. Developing the Next Generation of Church Leaders

1. The leaders of tomorrow are the youth of today

a. Today’s church leaders were forged in the 1950’s, 60’s & 70’s
Tomorrow’s future  Influence of World War II, Cold War
will be shaped by  Values of obedience, duty, and responsibility
today’s youth.
b. Tomorrow’s leaders are being forged in the 1980’s, 90’s, & now
 Influence of affluence, political correctness, terrorism
 Values of self-interest, challenging authority, and blaming
others
c. We can’t stop it from happening, but we can influence those who
will rise to leadership

2. What youth don’t like today they will change tomorrow

a. Youth are more negatively influenced, than positively influenced
 They are not sure what they really like, but they know what
they don’t like
 They will want to change what they don’t like
b. Each generation wants to be better than the previous one
 There is a continuing evolution of social thought
 Each generation wants to make a contribution to the culture

3. Teach youth Biblical principles, not church traditions

a. Focus on eternal truths, not temporary beliefs
b. Let the power of the Word draw them in, not traditions or practices
c. Let our actions be determined by Scripture, not by man-made ideas

If we want to change the future, we must influence today’s youth!

Page 45
 Remember the Lord’s importance for youth. God chose David, the youngest
We were all young of all of the brothers, to be King.
once!
“Once you spoke in a vision, to your faithful people you said: “I
have bestowed strength on a warrior; I have raised up a young man
from among the people. I have found David my servant; with my
sacred oil I have anointed him. My hand will sustain him; surely my
arm will strengthen him.”
Psalm 89:19-21

Page 46
 Discipling Youth Exercise
Purpose: To develop
ideas for youth Make a list of the main points that will help your church with youth ministry:
ministry

Time: Allow 15 _________________________________________________________
minutes for this
exercise 
_________________________________________________________
Format: To be done
individually by
participants  _________________________________________________________

 _________________________________________________________

 _________________________________________________________

 _________________________________________________________

Brainstorm with each other on ideas for youth ministry growth at your
**This part of the churches.
exercise can be done
by the participants at
their own church. Or, _______________________________________________________________
if time allows, can be
_______________________________________________________________
done in small groups.
_______________________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________________

Page 47
 Chapter 7

Discipling Men

Purpose: The purpose of this chapter is to stress the importance of

discipling men so they can be spiritual leaders.

Time Use: It should take about 60 minutes to cover the material.

Please allow another 15 minutes for the exercise.

Key Points: 1. Men are called to be spiritual leaders.

2. Reaching men is critical for Christianity.
3. Men must be reached individually.

Notes: 1. Emphasize the role of men as spiritual leaders.

2. To engage men in ministry, give them something to do.
3. Connect men to other men who are leaders.

“Abraham will surely become a great and powerful nation, and all nations
on earth will be blessed through him. For I have chosen him, so that he will
direct his children and his household after him to keep the way of the Lord
by doing what is right and just, so that the Lord will bring about for
Abraham what he has promised him.”
Genesis 18:18-19

Read the introduction. In the beginning God gave men the responsibility of leadership in the family,
in the church, and in society in general. In the Old Testament the Bible clearly
states that man was created first in the form of Adam, and that Eve was made
as a helper to him (Genesis 2:18). In the New Testament men are given the
responsibility to be heads of their families and are to love their wives as Christ
loved the church (Ephesians 5:23). So in God’s hierarchy of responsibility
men are placed in a position of leadership and therefore it is essential that they
be trained to be spiritual leaders. It is the responsibility of fathers to disciple
their children and so the church must be involved in the process of discipling
men so they are equipped and supported for that task. Many men are absent
from the church because they often see their primary responsibility as work in
order to provide for their family. But spiritual leadership is far more important
and so men must be discipled for this responsibility. That is the subject of this
chapter.

Page 48
 A. Men have a role in God’s plan
1. To be Leaders
Men are called to be “For the husband is the head of the wife as Christ is head of the
spiritual leaders. church, His body, of which He is the Savior.” – Ephesians 5:23

a. The family
b. The church
c. The nation
d. The world

2. To be Providers
“To Adam he said, because you listened to your wife and ate
from the tree about which I commanded you, ‘you must not eat
of it’, cursed is the ground because of you; through painful toil
you will eat of it all the days of your life.” – Genesis 3:17

a. To work
b. To support the needs of their family

Men are responsible 3. To be Teachers

for teaching their “Fathers, do not exasperate your children; instead, bring them
families the Word of up in the training and instruction of the Lord.” – Ephesians 6:4
God.
a. To pass on knowledge
b. To pass on the faith

ASK: Do you have problems discipling men in your

church? What are they?

B. Reaching men is critical for Christianity

This is usually men. 1. Satan attacks leaders

“Be self-controlled and alert. Your enemy the devil prowls
around like a roaring lion looking for someone to devour.”
- 1 Peter 5:8

a. If you thwart the man, you thwart the church

b. If you thwart the man, you thwart the family

The absence of fathers 2. Men are role models for children

in the home is linked “Jesus said to his disciples: Things that cause people to sin are
to crime rates. bound to come, but woe to that person through whom they come.
It would be better for him to be thrown into the sea with a
millstone tied around his neck than for him to cause any one of
these little ones to sin.” - Luke 17:1-2

Page 49
 a. Children look to men and fathers for behavioral examples
b. Men have influence beyond their words

3. Men are role models for society

“Watch your life and doctrine closely. Persevere in them,
because if you do, you will save both yourself and your hearers.”
- 1 Timothy 4:16

Men can either be a a. Men look to society’s leaders to see how to behave or act
good or bad influence. b. What society permits is often more dangerous than what the
law permits

C. Obstacles & challenges to reaching men

1. Men are independent

Ask if this is true in a. They like to be in control
this culture? b. They want to make their own choices
c. They want to solve problems by themselves
 They don’t ask for help or directions
 They believe they can eventually figure things out

Men are especially 2. Men are Career & Work Oriented

vulnerable when they a. They get their self-worth & identity from their jobs
are unemployed.  Their job often defines who they are
 If they lose their job, they lose their identity

b. They see their primary function as family providers

 Income
 Home or shelter

3. Men Face Many Temptations

“No temptation has seized you except that which is common to
man. And God is faithful; he will not let you be tempted beyond
what you can bear. But when you are tempted, He will also
provide a way out so that you can stand up under it.” – 1
Corinthians 10:13

a. Sex
 Physical gratification
b. Money
 Provider gratification
c. Power
 Control gratification

Page 50
 ASK: Are there other challenges you face in discipling
men?

D. Strategies for discipling men

1. Create a connection
Give men something a. Social
to do so they will  Common interests (e.g. – hobbies, music, etc.)
participate.  Physical activities (e.g. – construction, maintenance)
b. Sports
 Participation on teams
 Attending or viewing events
c. Business related
 Career connections
 Education or skill use in ministry

2. Teach Scriptural authority

Teach men that they
a. Man’s calling and purpose
are called to be
“Everyone who is called by my name, whom I created for my
spiritual leaders
glory, whom I formed and made.” - Isaiah 43:7
whether they want to
or not.
b. Man cannot serve two masters
“No one can serve two masters. Either he will hate the one
and love the other, or he will be devoted to the one and
despise the other. You cannot serve both God and Money.” -
Matthew 6:24

3. Develop ongoing opportunities

Develop good habits
a. Men’s meetings (monthly)
for men to be involved
b. Bible studies (weekly)
in church and ministry.
c. Men’s Retreats (annually)
d. Men’s Sporting activities (golf, tennis, soccer, fishing, etc.)
e. Ministry Events
 Men’s Christian events (e.g. – Promise Keepers in the
USA)
 Habitat for Humanity (home building)
 Feeding the homeless
f. Men’s social events
 Father/son or Father/daughter outings
 Attend basketball, baseball or football games
 Christian concerts, movies

4. Reach Men Individually

Men are often busy a. Use personal invitations
and need a good  Men won’t come just for social event unless they know
reason to participate. someone else they know is going
 Men often don’t respond to general invitations

Page 51
 b. Consider mentoring other men
 Identify men you want to disciple
 Be sure to invite them to go with you

5. Create events that focus on topics relevant to men’s interests or

Make sure they turn struggles
off their cell phones a. Career
and avoid distractions. b. Family
c. Significance
d. Success
e. Faith
f. Temptations

ASK: What strategies have you used that have been

successful with men?

Page 52
 Discipling Men Exercise
Purpose: To list some
goals, activities &
strategies for 1. List a few goals for discipling men at your church or ministry:
discipling men in the 1) ___________________________________________________
church
2) ___________________________________________________
Time: Allow 15 3) ___________________________________________________
minutes for this
exercise 4) ___________________________________________________
5) ___________________________________________________
Format: To be done
individually by
participants or in small 2. Write down some activities to help you achieve the goals listed
groups.
above:
1) ___________________________________________________
2) ___________________________________________________
**If there is time, you 3) ___________________________________________________
can ask several people
or groups to share their 4) ___________________________________________________
answers with the large 5) ___________________________________________________
group.
6) ___________________________________________________
7) ___________________________________________________
8) ___________________________________________________
9) ___________________________________________________
10) ___________________________________________________

3. What are some strategies you can create or use to disciple men in
your church or ministry?
1) ___________________________________________________
2) ___________________________________________________
3) ___________________________________________________
4) ___________________________________________________
5) ___________________________________________________

Page 53
 Chapter 8

Discipling Women

Purpose: The purpose of this chapter is to discuss the role of women

in the church and how to disciple them.

Time Use: It should take about 60 minutes to cover the material.

Please allow another 15 minutes for the exercise.

Key Points: 1. There are several Biblical examples for discipling

women.
2. Women can be leaders of households and faith.
3. Women are relational by nature.

Notes: 1. Emphasize events that deal with issues women face

daily.
2. Develop a mission statement for women’s ministry.

Read the Scripture. “Likewise, teach the older women to be reverent in the way they live, not to
be slanderers or addicted to much wine, but to teach what is good. Then
they can urge the younger women to love their husbands and children, to be
self-controlled and pure, to be busy at home, to be kind, and to be subject to
their husbands, so that no one will malign the word of God.”
Titus 2:3-5

Read the introduction. Women are very service-oriented, and unfortunately, many churches depend
on women for acts of service only (such as playing the piano or organ,
teaching the children, working in the nursery to care for babies, serve food,
clean-up after events, etc.) We can see from the Titus Bible verse above, that
it is very important to nurture the faith of women so that women may support
and share the Word of God.

A. Biblical Examples for Discipling Women

1. Women are Helpers

Genesis 2:18 – “The LORD God said, “It is not good for the man to
be alone. I will make a helper suitable for him.”
a. Women were created with the gift of “helps”.
b. It is appropriate for women to partner for and help men.

Page 54
 2. Godly Women must be Modest
Modesty is an 1 Timothy 2:9-10 – “I also want the women to dress modestly, with
important decency and propriety, adorning themselves, not with elaborate
characteristic of a hairstyles or gold or pearls or expensive clothes, but with good deeds,
Christian woman. appropriate for women who profess to worship God.”
a. Women are to be modest in their appearance.
b. Instead of expensive clothing, women are to be clothed in good
deeds.

3. Women are Followers of Jesus

Women have been an
Matthew 27:55 – “Many women were there, watching from a
integral part of
distance. They had followed Jesus from Galilee to care for His
Christianity from the
needs.”
beginning.
a. Women followed Jesus, also, and were there to care for His needs.
b. Women would submit to the Savior with their gift of helps.
c. Women were there to absorb the words of Jesus and grow in faith.

Women are sometimes 4. Women need to Consider their Spiritual Priorities

more devoted to their Luke 10:38-42 - “As Jesus and his disciples were on their way, he
family and home than came to a village where a woman named Martha opened her home to
to Jesus. him. She had a sister called Mary, who sat at the Lord’s feet
listening to what he said. But Martha was distracted by all the
preparations that had to be made. She came to him and asked,
“Lord, don’t you care that my sister has left me to do the work by
myself? Tell her to help me!” “Martha, Martha,” the Lord
answered, “you are worried and upset about many things, but few
things are needed—or indeed only one. Mary has chosen what is
better, and it will not be taken away from her.”
a. Mary listened to Jesus’ teaching, and that is an example to women.
b. Jesus taught us that even women are making the best choice to hear
the Word of the Lord, over the cares of being a busy or distracted
servant.

Women often 5. Women Should be Bold in Faith

demonstrate greater Matthew 15:21-28 – “Leaving that place, Jesus withdrew to the
internal strength than region of Tyre and Sidon. A Canaanite woman from that vicinity
men. came to him, crying out, “Lord, Son of David, have mercy on me!
My daughter is demon-possessed and suffering terribly.” Jesus did
not answer a word. So his disciples came to him and urged him,
“Send her away, for she keeps crying out after us.” He answered, “I
was sent only to the lost sheep of Israel.” The woman came and
knelt before him. “Lord, help me!” she said. He replied, “It is not
right to take the children’s bread and toss it to the dogs.” “Yes it is,

Page 55
 Lord,” she said. “Even the dogs eat the crumbs that fall from their
master’s table.” Then Jesus said to her, “Woman, you have great
faith! Your request is granted.” And her daughter was healed at that
moment.”
a. The Canaanite woman was persistent, humble, and bold, with
unwavering faith.
b. Jesus said she had “great faith”, and this is an example to women
today.

6. Women Show their Love for the Lord

Women were created Luke 7: 37-38, 44-47 – “A woman in that town who lived a sinful life
with a tremendous learned that Jesus was eating at the Pharisee’s house, so she came
capacity to love. there with an alabaster jar of perfume. As she stood behind Him at
His feet weeping, she began to wet His feet with her tears. Then she
wiped them with her hair, kissed them and poured perfume on
them…. Then He turned toward the woman and said to Simon, “Do
you see this woman? I came into your house. You did not give me
any water for my feet, but she wet my feet with her tears and wiped
them with her hair. You did not give me a kiss, but this woman,
from the time I entered, has not stopped kissing my feet. You did not
put oil on my head, but she has poured perfume on my
feet. Therefore, I tell you, her many sins have been forgiven—as her
great love has shown. But whoever has been forgiven little loves
little.”

a. The sinful woman who anointed Jesus sacrificed all that she could
for Jesus.
b. The custom was a little cheap oil to anoint on the head.
c. Her example is to be open about compassion for the Lord Jesus.
d. Jesus used her as an example because her love was genuine and
strong.

7. Women are Leaders

Women can, and Acts 16: 14-15, 40 – “One of those listening was a woman from the
should, be leaders! city of Thyatira named Lydia, a dealer in purple cloth. She was a
worshiper of God. The Lord opened her heart to respond to Paul’s
message. When she and the members of her household were
baptized, she invited us to her home. “If you consider me a believer
in the Lord,” she said, “come and stay at my house.” And she
persuaded us. After Paul and Silas came out of the prison, they went
to Lydia’s house, where they met with the brothers and sisters and
encouraged them. Then they left.”
a. Woman can be leaders of households.
b. Woman can be leaders of faith.

Page 56
 8. Women have Noble Character (see Proverbs 31:10-31)
Women are called to a. The woman of noble character brings goodness to all.
be noble and b. She works with eagerness, has earnings, and invests her money.
respectful. c. She helps the poor and needy, showing strength and dignity.
d. She is wise and instructs others.
e. Her family respects her, and she respects the Lord.

ASK: Are there other Biblical examples that you can think
of?

B. Obstacles and Challenges in Discipling Women

Women seek 1. Women can be more dependent, rather than having independence.
relationships with
2. Women are often the primary caretaker of children and may need to
other women.
bring their children to activities and classes for the women.
3. Women are relational and may show more sensitivity toward
relationship issues.
4. Women face cultural expectations (beauty, fashion, weight and size,
etc.)
5. Women may have to balance home, family, and jobs. Challenges may
include earning income, managing families, illnesses, and time
management.
6. Women face sin patterns related to gossip, manipulation, envy, and
judgment.
7. Women may be looking for specific ministries that address the issues
and challenges that they face in life.

C. Areas of Emphasis for Discipling Women

Women should be
discipled individually 1. Bible Studies
by women, not men, 2. Fellowship Ministry
unless it is their 3. Prayer groups
husband. 4. Servant-oriented efforts
5. Specialty groups (where women have things in common)
6. Mentoring (woman to woman)
7. Evangelism – sharing Christ with other women

ASK: What are some ideas or activities that would attract

women to being discipled?

Page 57
 D. Ideas for Women’s Ministry Groups
1. On-going Groups
Weekly, biweekly or a. Working Moms - Mothers with Jobs
monthly. b. Empty Nesters – Mothers of adult children
c. Helping Hands – Serving the needs at the church or in the outreach
community
d. Single Women’s or single Mom’s group
e. Healing Helps – For women who are in ill health or in grief of a
loss.
f. Worship Arts groups (for Music, Drama, etc.)

2. Event Ministries
Be careful of creating a. Mother/Daughter banquets or tea times
only fellowship events. b. Retreats or camps
Keep Christ at the
c. Discover your Spiritual Gifts
center.
d. Fellowship event for special holidays
e. Sports event – to participate in, or to watch a sports event

E. Developing a Mission Statement for Women’s Ministry

Use these ideas to help 1. Community oriented – caring for one another
with the exercise at the 2. Grounded in God’s Word - teaching the Scriptures
end of this chapter. 3. Prayer Warriors – continual prayer
4. Outreach to non-believers
5. Influencing the next generation of women
6. Serving those in need
7. Exalting the Savior
8. Equipping of the saints
9. Growth in faith
10. Experiencing the Power of the Holy Spirit – to bring changes in the
lives of women

“A wife of noble character who can find? She is worth far more than
rubies. Charm is deceptive, and beauty is fleeting; but a woman who fears
the LORD is to be praised.”
Proverbs 31:10, 30

ASK: What are some benefits for having a women’s

ministry mission statement?

Page 58
 Discipling Women Exercise
Purpose: To develop a
mission statement, Make some notes or do some planning for Women’s Ministry, by answering
goals and events for the following statements or questions. Discuss ideas with each other.
discipling women.

Time: Allow 15 1. Develop a mission statement for Women’s Ministry at your church.
minutes for this
exercise _______________________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________________
Format: To be done
individually by _______________________________________________________________
participants or in small _______________________________________________________________
groups.
_______________________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________________

**If there is time, you 2. What goals do you have for discipling, and for the spiritual growth of
can ask several people women?
or groups to share their
answers with the large _______________________________________________________________
group. _______________________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________________

3. Define a minimum of two new programs or events for Women that can be
started at your church. State the purpose of each, and potential leaders and
helpers.

_______________________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________________

Page 59
Purpose: To make Section 2 Review Questions
sure they have
grasped the key
teachings of this
1. Children should be taught according to their what?
second section of the
A: Developmental stage.
manual.
2. What are the 4 key discipleship areas for children?
A: Praise & worship, Bible Study, Prayer, Faith Sharing.
3. What are the 4 things that Youth Ministry is NOT?
Time: Allow 10
A: Entertainment, Best show in town, Best food in town, Mimicking
minutes for this.
the world.
4. What are 3 eternal purposes of youth ministry?
Format: This can be
A: Apply their faith, talk about tough issues, to become leaders.
done in a large group.
5. Men are called to be what?
A: Spiritual leaders.
Give them time to
6. What are the 3 obstacles in reaching men?
think and respond to
A: Men are independent, men are career focused, men face
each question. Let
temptations.
them look up in
7. Women are by nature what?
manual if necessary,
A: Relational.
but do not suggest
8. What should every women’s ministry have?
that. Correct answers
A: A mission statement.
are in red.

Page 60
 Section 3

Discipleship for the

Church

Page 61
 Chapter 9

Discipleship Planning

Purpose: The purpose of this chapter is to emphasize the importance

for having a discipleship plan for the church.

Time Use: It should take about 50 minutes to cover the material.

Please allow another 25 minutes for the exercise.

Key Points: 1. Discipleship is the only purpose for the Church.

2. Leaders should develop a process for discipleship.
3. Leaders should develop ways to measure discipleship
within the Church.

Notes: 1. Emphasize the need for an annual discipleship plan.

2. Churches should evaluate their plan annually.

Have someone read the “Commit to the Lord whatever you do, and your plans will succeed.”
Scripture. - Proverbs 16:3

The Great Commission that Jesus gave His disciples in Matthew 28:19 was to
Read the introduction. “go and make disciples of all nations.” That also applies to all of us today.
This is the purpose of the church and the reason it exists. So if making
disciples is the goal of the church then the church must have a plan for how to
achieve that goal. So often churches focus on activities that they hope will
create disciples, but rarely develop and execute a plan to do so. It is absolutely
imperative that a church have a plan on how it is going to make disciples, and
to proactively go about doing the things that produce that result. It also means
that they must develop measurements and collect the corresponding data that
can help determine if discipleship is taking place or not. Without goals, a plan,
and some measurements a church will be unable to tell if discipleship is
actually taking place.

ASK: How many of you have a formal discipleship plan

for your church? What is it?

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 A. Discipleship is the Goal of the church

1. Jesus said to “Go and Make disciples“

a. Nothing is more important
b. It is what Jesus spent most of His ministry time doing

No goal = no progress! 2. Discipleship is a process

a. There are many steps
People grow at b. It takes time
different rates and in c. It happens individually
different ways. d. It involves participation

3. Churches Need a Discipleship Plan

If there is no plan there a. To move people through the process
is likely no action. b. To measure results
c. To be intentional
d. “Fail to plan and you plan to fail” – Dr. Robert Schuller

It is an ongoing, 4. Discipleship is self-perpetuating

regenerative process. a. Disciples make disciples
b. The discipleship process is not complete until they can disciple
another

ASK: How would you define a disciple of Jesus?

B. The Signs of Discipleship

This is based solely on What does a disciple look like? Here are 7 signs to look for:
what we can observe.
1. Worship
“Jesus said, ‘Love the Lord your God with all your heart and
with all your soul and with all your mind.’” - Matthew 22:37

If a Christian does not a. A disciple acknowledges God as sovereign

worship God, how can b. A disciple is always giving God the glory!
they be a disciple? c. A disciple attends worship regularly

2. Bible Study
“All Scripture is God-breathed and is useful for teaching,
rebuking, correcting, and training in righteousness, so that the
man of God may be thoroughly equipped for every good work.” -
2 Timothy 3:16-17
If a Christian does not
read God’s Word, how a. A disciple is always learning God’s ways
can they be a disciple? b. A disciple is always seeking God’s wisdom
c. A disciple looks to God’s Word for answers

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 3. Prayer
“Pray continually” - 1 Thessalonians 5:17

If a Christian does not a. A disciple is constantly communicating with God

pray regularly, how can b. A disciple lives in the Spirit
they be a disciple? c. A disciple is seeking God’s will for their life

4. Service
“Always give yourselves fully to the work of the Lord, because
you know that your labor in the Lord is not in vain.” - 1
Corinthians 15:58
If a Christian does not
serve others, how can a. A disciple serves the Body of Christ
they be a disciple? b. A disciple looks for ways to serve others
c. A disciple follows Jesus’ example

5. Mission & Witness

“But you will receive power when the Holy Spirit comes on you;
and you will be my witnesses in Jerusalem, and in all Judea and
Samaria, and to the ends of the earth.” - Acts 1:8
If a Christian does not
share what God has a. A disciple tells others what God has done
done in their life, how b. A disciple goes where God leads them
can they be a disciple? c. A disciple makes other disciples

6. Faith
“Walk by faith, not by sight.” – 2 Corinthians 5:7
If a Christian does not
trust God, how can they a. A disciple lives by faith
be a disciple? b. A disciple trusts God
c. A disciple holds on to their faith in times of trouble

7. Fellowship
“Now you are the body of Christ, and each one of you is a part of
it.” - 1 Corinthians 12:27

If a Christian does not a. A disciples involves themselves in the life of the church
belong to the Body of b. A disciple desires to be with, and support, other Christians
Christ, how can they be c. A disciples sees fellowship as an integral part of their faith
a disciple?

C. Formulate a Discipleship Process

Determine a process to use for discipleship. Here is one example:

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 Step 1: Invitation to meet and accept Jesus
It all starts with an  Invite to church
invitation to meet  Invite to a home Bible study group
Jesus.  Let them experience the presence of the Holy Spirit in
community
 Encourage them to make a public profession of faith

Knowing God’s Word Step 2: Engage them in Bible Study

is essential to being  Attend new member classes
able to do God’s Word!  Encourage daily Bible reading
 Attend specific Bible studies at church or elsewhere

Step 3: Encourage Prayer Life

Talking to God should  Provide prayer training
be natural.  Involve them in prayer ministry

Step 4: Involve them in Service

Following Christ is all  Have them serve in the church in some capacity
about serving others.  Use Spiritual Gift Assessment to determine best fit

Step 5: Involve them in Ministry

Every Christian is a
 Offer mission trip opportunities
minister for Christ!
 Provide evangelism training
 Participation in ministry builds faith & confidence

D. Determine Discipleship Measurements

We often call these 1. Develop a measurement for each sign of discipleship

church metrics. a. Percent worship attendance
b. Bible Study – yes or no, how many, how often
c. Prayer – yes or no, how often
d. Service – yes or no, how often
e. Mission – yes or no, how often
f. Faith – weak or strong
Peter Drucker, a g. Fellowship – participation yes or no, how often
famous American
Management 2. Collect the data necessary for each metric
Consultant, said “That a. Class sign-up sheets
b. Worshipper registration cards
which gets measured
c. Church activity history
gets managed.”
3. Track & report the results
This takes discipline.
a. Monthly
b. Quarterly
c. Annually

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 E. Develop a Discipleship Plan for the ministry

“Commit to the Lord whatever you do, and your plans will succeed.”
- Proverbs 16:3

It always starts with a 1. Cast a Vision

goal! a. Define what you want to see happen
b. Identify some potential results or behaviors

2. Set Measureable Goals for each discipleship measurement

a. Worship attendance
b. Bible study participation
c. Small group participation
d. Service/ministry participation
e. Mission & Witness participation
f. Faith demonstration
g. Fellowship participation

Make sure your 3. Develop an individual discipleship process

discipleship plan is a. Identify the steps of progression
both individual and b. Membership or Bible class attendance
church-wide. c. Participation in a small group
d. Opportunities for service, mission or witness
e. Fellowship with others

4. Develop an annual church plan

Refer to exercise at end a. Have a plan to achieve your church discipleship goals
of chapter.  What activities will be scheduled
 What resources are needed
b. Review the plan monthly and annually for progress &
results
c. Make changes as needed

ASK: Do you meet annually to discuss your discipleship

results?
F. Ongoing Evaluation

Review key aspects and ask yourself the following questions every
year:

1. Individual involvement
a. What is the participation rate at each step in the process?
b. Where are you having successes?

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 2. Personal growth assessments
“In the same way, faith by itself, if it is not accompanied by
action, is dead.” – James 2:17

Do people share faith a. What are the individual results?

testimonies? b. Are your members growing in faith?

3. Modify specific training according to member’s needs

a. Make adjustments to classes offered
b. Encourage participation in successful courses
c. Direct them towards specific ministries

4. Impact assessment
“Thus, by their fruit you will recognize them.” – Matthew
7:20

If there is no perceived a. What is the impact on your church?

impact, then you are b. What is the impact on your community?
not achieving anything. c. What is the impact on the world?

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 Discipleship Planning Exercise
Purpose: To develop a
one page plan for
discipleship. Develop a Discipleship Plan for your church or ministry. Be as comprehensive
as you can and identity your vision, goals and the activities you would
Time: Allow 25 implement:
minutes for this
exercise
Vision Statement
Format: To be done _______________________________________________________________
in groups of 8-10 by _______________________________________________________________
participants _______________________________________________________________

Goal #1: ___________________________________________________

Activities:
**If there is time, you 1. ________________________________________________
can ask several groups 2. ________________________________________________
to share their answers 3. ________________________________________________
with the large group. 4. ________________________________________________

Goal #2: ___________________________________________________

Activities:
1. ________________________________________________
2. ________________________________________________
3. ________________________________________________
4. ________________________________________________

Goal #3: ___________________________________________________

Activities:
1. ________________________________________________
2. ________________________________________________
3. ________________________________________________
4. ________________________________________________

Goal #4: ___________________________________________________

Activities:
1. ________________________________________________
2. ________________________________________________
3. ________________________________________________
4. ________________________________________________

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 Chapter 10

Small Group Discipleship

Purpose: The purpose of this chapter is to discuss how small groups

can be used to disciple Christians.

Time Use: It should take about 60 minutes to cover the material.

Please allow another 15 minutes for the exercise.

Key Points: 1. The early Church was started in small groups.

2. Small groups can be used to effectively nurture faith.
3. Small groups must be Jesus centered.

Notes: 1. Good chemistry among members is important for small

groups.
2. Pastoral support for small groups is important.

“Jesus went up on a mountainside and called to Him those He wanted, and

Read Scripture. they came to Him. He appointed twelve that they might be with Him and
that He might send them out to preach”
Mark 3:13-14

At the beginning of His ministry on earth, Jesus stepped out and publically
Read the introduction. selected His small group. He selected twelve men who became His disciples,
and He mentored and trained them over the next three years. As Jesus left it
in their hands, the disciples built the church, a body of believers, which started
out as small groups meeting in homes. Let’s explore how we can use small
group discipleship for spiritual growth and a sense of community felt by the
congregations.

ASK: How would you define a small group?

A. Small Groups - Defined

1. Typically 5 – 12 people

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 2. Regular meetings
Meeting regularly is a. Usually in homes
critical for developing b. Bible study
continuity and c. Sharing and caring
cohesiveness. d. Prayer
e. Optionally – food!

3. Where hearts may be touched, questions may be answered, and

learning will be Biblically based.

B. Biblical Foundation for Small Groups

Read each Scripture as
you discuss each point. 1. Acts 2: 46-47
“Every day they continued to meet together in the temple courts. They
broke bread in their homes and ate together with glad and sincere
hearts, praising God and enjoying the favor of all the people. And the
Lord added to their number daily those who were being saved.”
a. Met in homes
b. Used by God for church growth

2. Hebrews 10:25
“Let us not give up meeting together, as some are in the habit of doing,
but encouraging one another—and all the more as you see the Day
approaching.”
a. Don’t give up
b. Important place for encouragement

3. Ecclesiastes 4:9-10
“Two are better than one, because they have a good return for their
labor: If either of them falls down, one can help the other up. But pity
anyone who falls and has no one to help them up.”
a. We need each other
b. Friends personally help one another

4. Colossians 3:16
“Let the message of Christ dwell among you richly as you teach and
admonish one another with all wisdom through psalms, hymns, and
songs from the Spirit, singing to God with gratitude in your hearts.”
Proverbs 27:17 “As iron sharpens iron, so one person sharpens
another.”
a. Mutual support
b. Continued spiritual growth through learning
c. Mutual accountability

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 5. Small groups are a place to nurture relational values:
You don’t need to read a. Love one another (John 13:24; 15:12, 17 …..and many more)
each Scripture in this
b. Be devoted to one another (Romans 12:10)
section.
c. Honor one another above self (Romans 12:10)
Express the importance d. Don’t judge one another (Romans 14:13)
of what many people e. Accept one another (Romans 15:7)
want – to be cared for. f. Greet one another affectionately (Romans 16:16, 1 Corinthians
16:20, 1 Peter 5:14)
g. Serve one another in love (Galatians 5:13)
h. Bear with one another (Ephesians 4:2, Colossians 3:13)
i. Forgive one another (Ephesians 4:32; Colossians 3:13)
j. Be kind and compassionate to one another (Ephesians 4:32)
k. Teach and admonish one another (Colossians 3:16)
l. Encourage and build up one another (1 Thessalonians 5:11;
Hebrews 3:13, 11:25)
m. Comfort one another (1 Thessalonians 4:18)
n. Spur one another on toward love and good deeds (Hebrews 10:24)
o. Confess your sins to one another (James 5:16)
p. Pray for one another (James 5:16)

ASK: What do you think are some common characteristics

that each small group should have?

These characteristics C. Characteristics of a Small Group

use key commands
from Jesus! 1. All small groups need common spiritual values (Upward – Inward –
Outward – Forward)

a. Upward – Matthew 22:36-38

Small groups must be
Christ centered! “’Teacher, which is the greatest commandment in the
Law?’ Jesus replied: ‘Love the Lord your God with all your heart
and with all your soul and with all your mind. This is the first and
greatest commandment.’”
 Top priority – our relationship with the Lord
 Authentic passion, in fullness
 Desire to be with Him
 Yearning to share what He is doing

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 b. Inward – Matthew 22:39
“And the second (greatest commandment) is like it: ‘Love your
neighbor as yourself.”
Small groups should be  Committing our lives to one another in love
relational!  Living in community together
 Loving one another in the small group setting leads to love for
each other in the outside setting

c. Outward – Matthew 28:19

Small groups should also
contain an element of “Therefore go and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them
outward focus. (Most in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit.”
people join a small group  Understanding that all of us are on a great commission for the
for the “inward” world
reasons. “Outward” will  Wherever God leads us to go, we must see that as a witnessing
often be a challenge.) opportunity
 The outward command is to “go” and to “make disciples” in
the one True God

d. Forward – Matthew 28:20

Small groups should “…and teaching them to obey everything I have commanded you.
encourage growth in And surely I am with you always, to the very end of the age.”
faith. Spiritual growth is  Learning obedience to all that Christ has taught us- a spiritual
the key goal! growth challenge
 Being taught does not equal obedience in daily life
 Having a life change that we pass on to others
 Moving forward in true faith with Christ as our companion and
guide

It is important to have 2. Benefits of small groups

life applications of God’s a. A place to experience LIFE CHANGE!
Word. b. A place to learn how to live the Christian life
c. A place to express and receive love
d. A place to grow deeper relationships with one another, in love and
acceptance
e. A place to find strength to endure challenges and hardships
f. A place to worship, pray, and study
g. A place to use your spiritual gifts in serving others

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 3. Other types of groups that can become small groups
a. Service oriented (e.g. Kitchen Angels)
Small groups can have b. Ministry oriented (e.g. Praise Band)
a variety of purposes. c. Gender-based (e.g. Men’s coffee group)
d. Demographic-based (e.g. Senior’s group)
e. All other types of groups need to have the small group values
 Open God’s Word for a message
 Pray together
 Share and support one another
 Grow spiritually together

Sports, games, projects,

ASK: What other types of small groups can you think of
music, etc. or suggest?

D. Challenges for Small Groups, with possible Solutions

Wise leadership is the
key to overcoming 1. Exclusiveness – when a small group acts “closed” to others
these challenges. Possible Solution: Have an empty chair, and pray for its filling. Also,
being willing to split into two groups.

2. Shyness – having group members that rarely share

Possible Solution: Split into smaller groups of 2-3 for some of the
time.

3. Superficiality – spiritually weak, usually wanting to only be socially-

based
Possible Solution: Giving more equal time to worship, prayer, study,
and sharing.

4. Leader Dominance – When the leader does all of the talking

Possible Solution: rotate leadership of the Bible Study time.

5. Personal Problem Dominance – members that regularly dominate the

conversation by bringing up their personal problems
Possible Solution: Giving a mentor to the member with many personal
problems.

6. Children – having children attending small group with parents, as they

cannot be left at home.
Possible Solution: Take turns with teaching the children, or finding a
youth to help.

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 E. Pastoral Support for Small Groups is important
This is important! 1. Visit groups occasionally
2. Train and mentor the small group leaders
3. Help small groups find Bible Study materials
4. Provide other materials/helps, such as a spiritual gift assessment, or
outreach flyers.
5. Celebrate with the small groups, as they have their events
6. Celebrate small groups as a larger congregation

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 Small Group Discipleship Exercise
Purpose: To evaluate
small groups within Answer the following questions to help your church with small group
our church. planning.

Time: Allow 15 1. What Bible Study groups exist already, and what support do they need
minutes for this to become a small group?
exercise ____________________________________________________________
Format: To be done ____________________________________________________________
individually or by ____________________________________________________________
church.
____________________________________________________________
____________________________________________________________

**If there is time, you 2. What ministry or service groups should be raised up to become a small
can ask a few people group that opens the Word, prays, etc.?
or churches to share ____________________________________________________________
their answers with the
group. ____________________________________________________________
____________________________________________________________
____________________________________________________________
____________________________________________________________

3. Who might be good small group leaders?

____________________________________________________________
____________________________________________________________
____________________________________________________________
____________________________________________________________
____________________________________________________________

4. What are some other ideas for small group discipleship at our
churches? (discuss this with each other)
____________________________________________________________
____________________________________________________________
____________________________________________________________
____________________________________________________________
____________________________________________________________

Page 75
 Chapter 11

Mentoring Others

Purpose: The purpose of this chapter is to stress the importance of

mentoring as a discipleship tool.

Time Use: It should take about 60 minutes to cover the material.

Please allow another 15 minutes for the exercise.

Key Points: 1. Mentoring is about commitment and investment.

2. Leaders must determine a mentoring process to use.
3. Have a mentor and be a mentor all your life.

Notes: 1. Emphasize the importance of meeting regularly.

2. Emphasize the need for accountability.
3. Know when to end the mentoring relationship.

“Just as a nursing mother cares for her children, so we cared for you.
Read Scripture. Because we loved you so much, we were delighted to share with you not only
the gospel of God but our lives as well. (We are) encouraging, comforting
and urging you to live lives worthy of God, who calls you into His kingdom
and glory.”
1 Thessalonians 2:7-8, 12

Read the introduction. Jesus developed a mentoring relationship with His disciples. Jesus was a
teacher, counselor, and guide to all of His disciples. He had a close mentoring
relationship with three key disciples – Peter, James, and John. Mentoring is a
key message in the Great Commission, because we are to “make” disciples,
not just “witness to” outsiders. Mentoring is an important ingredient of
discipleship – as we spiritually grow and learn to live a life of faith.

ASK: How would you define mentoring?

A. Introduction

1. A mentor is a wise and trusted counselor or teacher (according to the

dictionary)

Page 76
 2. God created us to need mentors
Sports coaches too? a. Parents
b. Teachers
c. Bosses
Note: Pastors cannot d. Pastors
mentor every member.
3. Mentoring is: (see 1 Timothy, Chapter 4)
Mentoring is about
a. A committed one-to-one discipling relationship
commitment and
investment in another b. An investment in another person’s life
person. c. A passing on of faith in Jesus
d. An apprenticeship where both people respect and rely on each
other
e. Spiritual reproduction – so that the mentee can mentor others
f. Maintaining Christian leadership from one generation to another

“And the things you have heard me say in the presence of many witnesses
We mentor to make
entrust to reliable people who will also be qualified to teach others.”
mentors!
2 Timothy 2:2

B. Principles of Mentoring

Without commitment 1. Commitment

there is no progress. a. Taking on the responsibility to develop the one-to-one relationship
b. Time investment for an on-going process
c. Pledging to completely follow God’s Word and God’s Will

2. Accountability
We must be vulnerable a. Openness to each other
if we are to change and
b. Willingness to be repentant
grow.
c. Agreeing to “answer to” the other person

Confidentiality builds 3. Confidentiality

trust! a. All personal information is confidential first, unless specified
otherwise
b. Mutually agree to share some information, to build up the body of
believers

No one should be 4. Voluntary

forced to participate. a. Each person is willing to enter into the relationship
b. Offering up the time needed for a long term commitment
c. Allow it to end, as either person may request, or need

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 5. Characteristics
a. Person-to-person
b. This is important b. Same gender only
c. It may be someone you know, or don’t know
d. A 3rd party may help with the match
e. Maximum of perhaps three to mentor at a time
f. The Bible is the main tool
g. It happens in answer to God’s call

C. How to Mentor

1. Getting Started
a. After prayer and discerning God’s guidance, select a person to
Commitment and
mentor.
willingness must be
mutual by both parties. b. Have an exploratory first meeting to agree upon and establish the
mentoring process.
c. It could end here, as it needs to be mutual and also God’s Will.
Pray!
d. If the person is lost, or unsaved, work on Evangelism first.

2. Determine a mentoring process

It must be Bible a. When and where to meet
centered. b. Agree on the Bible as the guidebook for your meetings
c. Have a second meeting, and both take notes on life issues, topics,
or needs
d. Plan with each other the schedule and topics

3. Meet regularly
Regular contact is
a. Keep up the agreed upon schedule.
important to the
process. b. Remain flexible to adjust the schedule, and to do make-up
meetings
c. Have brief encounters to catch-up and to provide encouragement

4. Assess and work on the needs

Ongoing assessment is a. Use notes taken at first
very helpful. b. Collect more info related to childhood, young adulthood, and
current life situation
c. Review and discuss notes, discover needs, and make mentoring
GOALS

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 5. Encourage spiritual growth
“But as for you, continue in what you have learned and have
become convinced of, because you know those from whom
you learned it, and how from infancy you have known the
Holy Scriptures, which are able to make you wise for
salvation through faith in Christ Jesus.”
-2 Timothy 3:14-15

Prayer is critical and a. GOALS are covered, one at a time or only a few at a time
testimonies are b. All GOALS should be researched in the Scriptures for guidance
effective. Matthew and help. Do this together and prepare some ahead.
18:19-20 shows the
c. Pray together. Listen to the Holy Spirit for guidance
power of God’s Hand
upon us. d. Agree on any “homework” due before the next meeting
e. Be testimonial. Share the spiritual growth with others, and witness
to the work of the Holy Spirit in your lives.

6. When to end the mentoring relationship

a. As God leads, and as agreed upon.
Be discerning and pray. b. When the mentee is capable of mentoring another person. We
need to ‘make disciples’ who will ‘make disciples’!
c. When life situations change
d. Change your mode – e.g. don’t meet regularly, but have occasional
touch points.
e. When you can just meet for lunch, and even mentor each other.
Mutual mentoring is a
great ending!

Every Christian should

Key point!-->
HAVE a mentor
And
Be a mentor
ALL of their life!
Have a Paul – to
mentor you Paul mentoring Timothy:
Have a Barnabas – to Timothy, my son, I am giving you this command in keeping with the
encourage you prophecies once made about you, so that by recalling them you may fight
Have a Timothy – for the battle well, holding on to faith and a good conscience, which some have
you to mentor rejected and so have suffered shipwreck
with regard to the faith.
1 Timothy 1:18-19

Page 79
 Mentoring Others Exercise
Purpose: To plan for
mentoring others. Answer the following questions, to plan for some mentoring at your
church:
Time: Allow 15
minutes for this
exercise 1. Who do I feel led by the Lord to mentor?

Format: To be done ____________________________________________________________________

individually by ____________________________________________________________________
participants
____________________________________________________________________
____________________________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________________
**If there is time, you
can ask several people 2. Who are some people who are spiritually ready to be mentors at our
to share their answers church?
with the group.
____________________________________________________________________
____________________________________________________________________
____________________________________________________________________
____________________________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________________

3. Who is in need of mentoring at our church?

____________________________________________________________________
____________________________________________________________________
____________________________________________________________________
____________________________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________________

4. From questions 2 & 3 above, who might be matched up as mentoring

pairs?

____________________________________________________________________
____________________________________________________________________
____________________________________________________________________
____________________________________________________________________

Page 80
 Chapter 12

Encouraging a Hunger for God

Purpose: The purpose of this chapter is to help leaders motivate

others to hunger for God.

Time Use: It should take about 60 minutes to cover the material.

Please allow another 15 minutes for the exercise.

Key Points: 1. All Christians should hunger for God.

2. A hunger for God produces the fruit of the spirit.
3. Leaders must recognize the signs of spiritual hunger.
4. Leaders must encourage others to hunger for God.

Notes: 1. Emphasize the need for worship & Bible reading.

2. Leaders must be examples of hungering for God.
3. Prayer is our most effective tool for activating the Holy
Spirit.

Read the Scripture and “Blessed are those who hunger and thirst for righteousness, for they will be
discuss it. filled.”
Matthew 5:6

There is an old saying that “you can lead a horse to water but you cannot
Read the introduction. make him drink.” It means that if a horse is not thirsty he likely will not drink,
even if you place some water before him. The same can be said of our
relationship to God. We can be led to God, but unless we desire Him we will
have no interest. So it is important for us to develop a hunger for God and His
Word, so that we may be filled with His Holy Spirit. I once heard the Rev.
David Jeremiah identify the difference between “Spiritual Hunger” and
“Physical Hunger” in a sermon of his on the radio. He said that with
*Spiritual growth is Physical Hunger, the more you eat, the less hungry you become until you are
like giving medicine to full. But with Spiritual Hunger the opposite is true. The more you eat, the
a child: hungrier you get. You never have enough. As leaders it is important for us to
1. They are sick & encourage others to have a hunger for God as well. We can lead them to God
don’t know it. but they must have a hunger for God as well. When God’s people hunger for
2. It is good for them Him they desire more of Him and thus grow as disciples.
3. They often resist it

ASK: How would you describe your hunger for God?

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 A. Who Should Hunger for God?

An active faith requires 1. A Disciple of Christ should hunger for God as Jesus did
a hunger for God. a. Is there a difference between a “disciple” and a “believer”?
Disciple – One who accepts and assists in spreading the
doctrines of another.
Believer – To have a firm religious faith; to take as true or
honest.

b. A Disciple is more than a just a Believer. A disciple has an

active faith.
“Do not merely listen to the Word and so deceive
yourselves. Do what it says.” – James 1:22

2. Who are some Biblical examples of people who hungered for God?
a. Abraham – Trusting in God’s promises (Genesis 22)
b. Moses – Obedient to God’s commands (Exodus 7:6)
c. David – A man after God’s own heart (1 Samuel 13:14)
d. Job – Faithful despite persecution (Job 42)
e. Nicodemus – Came to Jesus at night (John 3:2)
f. Mary – Sitting at the Lord’s feet (Luke 10:38-42)
g. Paul – A man on a mission for God (Acts 9:15-16)

B. Why Should We Encourage a Hunger for God?

Without it, man will
not find God 1. Because we know that only God can fill our spiritual “void”
(Jeremiah 29:13) a. Only God gives true peace
b. Only God can satisfy our spiritual desires and needs

2. Because we were all created to be in relationship with our Creator

a. We have been separated from God through sin, and He
wants us back!
b. “Apart from God we can do nothing” – John 15:5

Jesus is the only bridge 3. Because Christ is the ONLY way to salvation and eternal life
between man and God. a. There is no other name by which men can be saved – Acts
4:12
b. Jesus is the Way, The Truth and the Life – John 14:6

The Kingdom of God is 4. Because of the blessings God wants to give each of us in this life
here today! a. Seek Him first, and you will receive everything else –
Matthew 6:33
b. God blesses those who call on Him – Romans 10:12

ASK: What are some signs of a person who has a hunger

for God?

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 C. What Are the Signs of Spiritual Hunger?

1. A desire to worship God

If you truly want a. Praise inspires us
something, you will b. Worship lifts our spirits
invest yourself in it! c. Worship helps us focus on God instead of ourselves

2. A thirst for knowledge and Truth

Proverbs 10:14 (Wise a. To know and understand God’s Word
men store up b. To apply God’s Word to our lives
knowledge) c. To seek God’s wisdom
d. To pursue God’s will for our lives

Refer to Rick Warren’s 3. A need to fill the emptiness in our lives

book, A Purpose a. To have a relationship with Jesus
Driven Life, and its b. To fill the void only He can fill
impact on the world. c. To find meaning and purpose in our lives

4. A desire to submit to God (James 4:7 – “Submit yourselves,

then, to God”)
a. Do His will
b. Obey His commands
c. Go where He leads

5. A desire to serve others (Galatians 5:13 – “Serve one another in

love”)
a. To think of others first (the greatest commandments)
b. To love others as Christ loved us
c. To deny one’s self and take up His cross

Isaiah 52:7 (How 6. A longing to share the Good News with others
beautiful are the feet of a. To willingly share one’s testimony (witness)
those who bring Good b. To seek out the lost (evangelize)
News) c. To proclaim the gospel (preach)

ASK: Can you identify people who have the hunger for
God and those who don’t?

D. How Do We Help Feed the Hunger of Others?

Key word: 1. Encourage the eating of spiritual food (Read the Word)
Preparation “All Scripture is God-breathed and is useful for teaching,
rebuking, correcting and training in righteousness, so that the
man of God may be thoroughly equipped for every good work.” –
2 Timothy 3:16-17

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 a. To grow in Christ you’ve got to know Christ
b. An appropriate American expression is “You are what you
eat”, so eat right!

2. Encourage regular exercise (Attend Worship)

Key word: Practice “Ascribe to the Lord the glory due His name. Bring an offering
and come before Him; worship the Lord in the splendor of His
holiness.” – 1 Chronicles 16:29

a. It puts the focus on God

b. It reinforces their connection to the Body of Christ

Key word: Purity 3. Encourage the resistance to “sweets” (sins of the world) that
diminish one’s appetite (Remain Pure)
“Therefore, since we are surrounded by such a great cloud of
witnesses, let us throw off everything that hinders and the sin
that so easily entangles, and let us run with perseverance the
race marked out for us.” – Hebrews 12:1

a. Stress confession and repentance

b. Stress the avoidance of situations that lead to temptation

Key word: 4. Encourage the feeding of others (Do Mission Work)

Participation “The third time he said to him, ‘Simon, son of John, do you love
me?’ Peter was hurt because Jesus asked him the third time, ‘Do
you love me?’ He said, ‘Lord, you know all things; you know that
I love you.’ Jesus said, ‘Feed my sheep.’”
– John 21:17

a. In order to receive one must first give away

b. A teacher knows more than a student
c. Our faith grows as we serve others in His name
d. Don’t use God – let God use you!

Key word: Perspective 5. Encourage the development of a Godly perspective (Seek God)
“But seek first His kingdom and His righteousness, and all these
things will be given to you as well.” - Matthew 6:33

a. Develop a Biblical world view

b. Seek God first in all matters
c. Look to the Word for instruction and guidance

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 6. Encourage a strong prayer life (Pray Continually)
Key word: Prayer “Pray continually.” – 1 Thessalonians 5:17

Encourage and pray! a. It builds our relationship with our Heavenly Father
Let the Holy Spirit b. It reinforces our faith as we see God answer prayer
activate the desire.

E. Some Helpful Tips on Encouraging Others to Hunger for God

1. Be an example
1 Peter 5:3 (…being a. Don’t just tell them – show them
examples to the flock) b. A picture is worth a thousand words

2. Do it together
a. Make yourself accountable to others
b. There is strength in numbers
“A cord of three strands is not quickly broken” –
Ecclesiastes 4:12

3. Focus on the positive

a. Criticism destroys desire
b. Build each other up – 1 Thessalonians 5:11

4. Be proactive
a. Don’t wait for them to initiate activity or they may not
b. It lets them know that you really care about them

5. Give all praise and glory to God

a. Be sure to thank God in ALL things – 1 Thessalonians
5:18
b. It is always about Him and not us

ASK: What have you done to encourage others to seek

God?

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 Encouraging a Hunger for God Exercise
Purpose: To make a
list of ways we can
encourage others to
develop a hunger for List the things you can do to encourage others to hunger for God:
God.

Time: Allow 15
minutes for this 1. ____________________________________________________________
exercise
2. ____________________________________________________________
Format: To be done
individually by 3. ____________________________________________________________
participants
4. ____________________________________________________________

5. ____________________________________________________________

**If there is time, you 6. ____________________________________________________________

can ask several people
to share their answers 7. ____________________________________________________________
with the group.
8. ____________________________________________________________

9. ____________________________________________________________

10. ____________________________________________________________

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Purpose: To make Section 3 Review Questions
sure they have
grasped the key
teachings of this third
1. What are the 7 signs of a disciple of Jesus?
section of the
A: Worship, Bible study, Prayer, Service, Mission & Witness, Faith
manual.
and Fellowship.
2. What is required to assess discipleship in your church?
A: Measurements, or metrics.
Time: Allow 10
3. What is the typical size of a small group?
minutes for this.
A: 5-12 people.
4. What are the 4 spiritual characteristics of a small group?
Format: This can be
A: Upward, Inward, Outward, & Forward.
done in a large group.
5. What does effective mentoring require?
A: Commitment & Investment.
Give them time to
6. What 2 relationships should every Christian have?
think and respond to
A: Have a mentor and be a mentor.
each question. Let
7. Name the 6 signs of spiritual hunger?
them look up in
A: Desire to worship, thirst for knowledge, need to fill the emptiness,
manual if necessary,
desire to submit, desire to serve, and longing to share gospel.
but do not suggest
8. Name 2 tips for encouraging others to hunger for God?
that. Correct answers
A: Be an example, Do it together, Focus on the positive, Be
are in red.
proactive, Give God the glory.

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