Most Christians may not have a very clear picture of what a disciple is and does. In light of that, we recommend at the beginning of your journey together, to paint a clear picture of a disciple of Jesus. A disciple of Jesus is not just a student or learner (although that’s part of it), but more importantly, it’s someone who wants to be just like Jesus (as much as possible). It’s important to establish this concept early and come back to it often. Jesus said it this way in Luke 6:40, “The student is not above the teacher, but everyone who is fully trained will be like their teacher.”  Our goal in disciple-making is to help others to become more like Jesus. Because that’s what the world needs. More Jesus!! So to help establish those foundational elements of being a disciple of Jesus, we encourage our disciple-makers to know and teach the wheel illustration. 

For further insight and how to explain the wheel illustration click here 

Disciple-Making is not a program but it is a process walking alongside another as you help them become spiritually mature and making disciples themselves. Click here to get an overview of the process.

Jesus was both highly relational and also highly intentional which means he not only spent a lot of time with his disciples but he also had a plan and vision for them along the way. As disciple-makers, each time we meet, we need to come into the meeting prepared and intentional with what we want to share with them. Yes, we need to be flexible, understanding that “life happens”, but that doesn’t mean we can’t come prepared.  Click here for a sample plan template to get you going.

Every disciple-maker needs to know how to share the Gospel clearly and concisely. Although there are many different ways you can share the story of redemption we recommend familiarizing yourself with the Bridge Illustration. It’s important for our disciples to understand the significance of the cross and encourage them to share it with others.  A helpful explanation can be found here.

If you’re looking to read the Bible with someone who is not yet a Christ-follower, we recommend the Discovery Bible Study as a great Disciple-Making Tool.

Perhaps the greatest resource available to every disciple (except for the Holy Spirit) is the Word of God. Jesus knew the Scriptures inside and out. He not only obeyed them perfectly but he spoke them often. He relied upon them as if it was like food. We understand the challenges of getting people just to read their Bible, but disciples are called upon to do much more than that. The Hand Illustration is a great tool to help others to understand how best to handle the word of God.

We encourage every disciple to begin memorizing the Scriptures. The Topical Memory System was created to get disciples started with the basics. We encourage you to challenge those whom you are discipling to memorize one or two verses for each meeting. Also, take some time each meeting to review past ones as well. Before you know it, you will have helped them lay a solid foundation of the Scriptures in their hearts and minds.

Click here for additional resources from the Navigators.

Quiet time is a regular period of time dedicated to developing and growing a relationship with God through Jesus Christ. This daily time allows one to remove all distractions of the day and focus on deepening their relationship with Jesus through prayer and bible reading. At times it may feel difficult to schedule this daily time with God.  However, this does not have to be a large commitment. A long time Navigator developed a simple outline called, 7 Minutes With God to help deepen someone’s daily relationship with Christ.

It’s always nice to get some advice before you start anything new from people who have a lot more experience. Click here to read 34 amazing quick tips to help ensure you get started off on the right foot.