In a previous blog I discussed the dynamics of groups in making decisions to follow Christ and in growing as disciples. Westerners have often been steeped in a cultural worldview of individualism whereas many other cultures operate in a worldview of group influence. For example, when people engage in significant life decisions like conversion, they naturally involve friends in gospel conversations. Likewise, discipleship can also thrive most in the context of group influence.
My wife and I are researching across multiple countries to answer this research question: "Why do some persons of peace (POP) start groups while others don't?" Our data shows no difference in media messages, filtering processes, or initial field follow-up between these groups. However, we discovered significant variations in how mentors engaged with POPs after initial contact.
Our interviews revealed five stages of discipleship as defined by national leaders:
- Pre-discipleship phase (seeker)
- Beginning discipleship - using scripture to address personal questions
- Committed discipleship - making decisions based on biblical obedience
- Sharing what they learned with others
- Forming groups with those they've shared with - guiding others through stages 1-3
Mentors of reproducing disciples successfully guided their mentees through all five stages.
Additional research revealed an interesting pattern: when mentors extensively teach all discipleship elements (stages 1-3) rather than guiding young disciples to discover principles for themselves through scripture, they often don't share with others or start groups. In essence they become dependent on mentors. The most fertile ground for growth appears to be when disciples learn scripture incrementally and share as they learn.
The key insight? Helping disciples become reproducing disciples is integral to discipleship itself. Group formation naturally follows. Our goal isn't merely reaching more people - it's developing reproducing disciples. Someone once told me, "Help disciples learn a little information but encourage them to use that information a lot."
Recently, when discussing Acts 2:41 with a South Asian ministry leader, we noted that while three thousand conversions sounds impressive, what follows is even more impressive. These new disciples formed groups, grew in the "apostles' teaching" and in community fellowship, which led to further growth. When disciples learn to share and form groups, it benefits both individual growth and ministry expansion.
For more information about the five stages of discipleship, contact us. We're here to help.
