How do
we measure discipleship? It is relatively easy to measure church attendance,
giving, or small group participation, but how do we measure church members
becoming more like Christ? Church
activity doesn’t necessarily lead to fully devoted followers of Christ, but are
there activities we can measure to help our congregation grow?
Here’s a suggestion for six vital areas that point to a growing
disciple:
·
Serving
in a local church. Church attendance without service does not grow me as a
disciple. To grow I have to serve generously with my time, talent and treasure.
·
Praying
consistently. This is so obvious that
it seems to get overlooked. A growing
disciple follows Jesus’ pattern of consistent, heartfelt prayer.
·
Reading
the Bible daily. Separate studies by the
Willow Creek Association and Lifeway on discipleship came to the same
conclusion; the single biggest factor in growing as a disciple is reading the
Bible every day. It’s the magic pill of discipleship.
·
Engaging
in biblical community. Discipleship throughout
the Bible is always in context of community. Being in a small group does not
guarantee discipleship, but not being in biblical community prevents it.
·
Actively
involved in missional outreach. Biblical disciples engage in Kingdom
transformation in their home, their community and their world.
·
Developing
other disciples. Jesus final command was
very clear, Go make disciples. Every growing disciple of Christ
develops other disciples.
Joyce Roberts
