Understanding How People Grow -SESSION 1- WHAT IS DISCIPLESHIP? Understanding How People Grow Nathan Wagnon

Views of Discipleship Education programs Higher level of Christian commitment (Christian / disciple distinction) SESSION 1 | WHAT IS DISCIPLESHIP?

“Most are unaware that their definition of a genuine and mature Christian bears an uncanny resemblance to their own current walk with God.” Larry Osborne, Accidental Pharisees SESSION 1 | WHAT IS DISCIPLESHIP?

Views of Discipleship Education programs Higher level of Christian commitment (Christian / disciple distinction) Christian activism The Christian life SESSION 1 | WHAT IS DISCIPLESHIP?

SESSION 1 | WHAT IS DISCIPLESHIP?

It’s a Journey Some disclaimers: The stages are consecutive but also fluid Can occupy more than one stage at a time Stages progress as we cooperate with the Spirit’s work in our lives SESSION 1 | WHAT IS DISCIPLESHIP?

Stage 1: The Converted Life Characterized by new birth in Christ, excitement but a lack of understanding People get stuck because of a sense of inadequacy or a lack of training Progress is seen as people get into community, join a small group, or follow an effective leader SESSION 1 | WHAT IS DISCIPLESHIP?

Stage 2: The Learning Life Characterized by learning about God and the basics of the faith, typically through programs People get stuck because they mistake “cookie cutter” programs with discipleship; Danger is rigid righteousness, a we vs. them mentality Progress is made through nurturing relationships and by contributing as well as receiving SESSION 1 | WHAT IS DISCIPLESHIP?

Stage 3: The Productive Life Characterized by activity, by doing things for God - a strong emphasis is placed on success in vocation or ministry, typically measured by money, activity, or numbers of new converts People get stuck because they view their life and ministry through the lens of performance; burnout is common Progress is seen through a re-assessment of the spiritual life and values, preferably with a mentor SESSION 1 | WHAT IS DISCIPLESHIP?

The Wall Characterized by crisis, pain and disappointment associated with life transition, external trauma, internal struggle, or a dark night of the soul People will experience a diminished emotional attraction to God and can become disillusioned or turn to unhealthy coping mechanisms; many Christians do not move past the wall Progress is made we surrender our egos and wounds and agree with what God is doing SESSION 1 | WHAT IS DISCIPLESHIP?

Stage 4: The Inward Life Characterized by a deliberate journey to engage the deepest parts of the self: self-examination and questioning are common, Christ is replacing the ego, the focus shifts from doing to being, significant healing and transformation occurs People get stuck in self-assessment and become too introspective Progress is made in the practice of stillness, reflection and surrender. A mature friend or mentor is crucial SESSION 1 | WHAT IS DISCIPLESHIP?

Stage 5: The Outward Life Characterized by a renewed (and much deeper) passion to participate with God in his mission; the ego is consistently dying; ministry is done for the sake of Christ; results are in His hands People can seem out of touch to a world (and church) focused on heavy production and winning Progress is made through continued surrender, practicing the presence of God; revisiting the wall can occur to create another opportunity for growth; a mature friend is important SESSION 1 | WHAT IS DISCIPLESHIP?

Stage 6: The Life of Love Characterized by unconditional love; full integration of being, knowing, and doing; there is little desire to be rich or well known, only to love and serve God and others – the Lord has won over the disciple’s heart People are largely misunderstood and can appear to the world (or less mature believers) as wasting their lives Progress awaits in heaven SESSION 1 | WHAT IS DISCIPLESHIP?

“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. And the second is like it, love your neighbor as yourself. All the Law and the Prophets hang on these two commandments.” Jesus SESSION 1 | WHAT IS DISCIPLESHIP?

What stage of growth are you currently in? Questions To Consider What stage of growth are you currently in? Would you say you are stuck or progressing, and why? SESSION 1 | WHAT IS DISCIPLESHIP?