2022 Disciple-Making Senior Leaders Network

Biblical and Theological Foundations of Discipleship: Historically, many organizations have gradually shifted from their original vision and become something quite different in the following generations. The initial mission is forgotten - even scorned; and the new, fully embraced and promoted. Jesus Christ, however, never abolished or modified His strategy for world evangelisation or implied that the task could be accomplished through programs or mass evangelism alone. Any possibility of success would depend on the commitment of His followers who believe in and practice “spiritual multiplication,” the exponential growth of the body of Christ which occurs when mature believers lead others to Christ and then disciple them until they themselves grow to maturity in Christ and are trained to effectively live out their faith before the watching world. Forming a solid biblical and theological foundation for discipleship will help us answer the question that every generation of believers must ask: “Will my ministry be built upon pragmatic and methodological concerns or upon careful exegetical activity related to the life and ministry of Jesus Christ?” Establishing a sound biblical and theological framework for discipleship will ensure that what we do and say in the name of Christ will have lasting value and preserve His strategy for lasting fruitfulness.

The Disciple’s Square, What Jesus’ Disciples Need to Learn: By definition, disciples are learners. The prevalent word used in the New Testament for "learn" has the basic meaning “to direct one’s mind to something.” An intellectual process is always implied. A disciple, then, is one who thinks, who concentrates, and who prayerfully apprehends what his Master wants him to be, to know, or to do as revealed in the Bible.

The Ten Primary Reasons Christians Do Not Reproduce: At the start of our day, we will address the important question, “What prevents believers from spiritually reproducing?”

Biblical Foundations, Vision, and Outcomes: We will be asking and discussing the question, “What is discipleship?” Definitions are important and are foundational to one’s worldview and lifestyle. It has been said that the word discipleship has as many definitions as there are believers. This session will lay out a biblical foundation and vision for discipleship from which to engage in the process of investing our lives in others until they grow to spiritual maturity and begin to spiritually reproduce.

The Purpose and Benefits of Discipleship: Why should believers be involved in discipleship? What purpose does it serve? What benefits does it offer? In this session, we will discuss the rationale for discipleship, along with the most important benefits that accrue to those who participate in the discipling process.

How to Use Your Summer Wisely: There are three months between the 2022 Forum and our first webinar in September. In this session, we will consider some practical ways you can make the best use of your time during the summer.

Accountability Partners: What does it mean to have accountability partners and how does it work? We will pair up for support and encouragement during the year.