What does it mean to Make Disciples?
“Follow me,” Jesus tells his first disciples. He calls them away from their former lives and priorities, and gives them a new focus. You might say they become disciples from the first moment they drop their fishing nets and set off after him. They learn how to be disciples as they follow the one who makes disciples. Then, in his last words to them, Jesus gives them a new challenge: to make disciples themselves.
But how do we do this in today’s world? For many Christians, that last command Jesus gave has come to be associated with evangelism, and evangelism, the E word, often makes us and others feel uncomfortable. We have been raised to be polite, help people feel welcome and comfortable, and not make waves or intrude. But in reality, evangelism can be as simple as talking to people, welcoming them, inviting them to join an activity, including them in our community of faith, giving them a sense of belonging. These people may not be actively seeking God, but they feel welcome in our community, so they come back. They meet Christians who are being their authentic selves with each other and who talk honestly about their faith. As time passes, these newcomers are enfolded into community and then want to learn more about the faith of these Christian friends. This pattern of belonging first, then believing later, is more helpful in building a deep faith than being told they are sinful and need forgiveness and being preached to a set of belief statements and doctrines. This is how Jesus practiced discipleship as well.
But how do we do this in today’s world? For many Christians, that last command Jesus gave has come to be associated with evangelism, and evangelism, the E word, often makes us and others feel uncomfortable. We have been raised to be polite, help people feel welcome and comfortable, and not make waves or intrude. But in reality, evangelism can be as simple as talking to people, welcoming them, inviting them to join an activity, including them in our community of faith, giving them a sense of belonging. These people may not be actively seeking God, but they feel welcome in our community, so they come back. They meet Christians who are being their authentic selves with each other and who talk honestly about their faith. As time passes, these newcomers are enfolded into community and then want to learn more about the faith of these Christian friends. This pattern of belonging first, then believing later, is more helpful in building a deep faith than being told they are sinful and need forgiveness and being preached to a set of belief statements and doctrines. This is how Jesus practiced discipleship as well.
Learn more about Make Disciples
Learn more about the theological foundations for this practice.
Foundational essay |
Introduction video |
Make Disciples practices
The last command that the resurrected Jesus gave to his disciples was to make more disciples. In the Great Commission, Jesus told his followers to “Go therefore and make disciples of all nations, ...and teaching them to obey everything that I have commanded you” (Matthew
28:19–20a). Those first disciples answered the call by traveling to the ends of the earth as they knew it, but perhaps there is no more important, challenging, or rewarding place to support discipleship than in one’s own home. Disciple-making begins at home and goes to the neighbor across the street, the grocery store, the meeting at school, and wherever we go in their daily lives. It is not done alone, for we are baptized into a community of disciples and disciple-makers who are assured by the final words of the Great Commission that Jesus is with us “always, to the end of the age” (Matthew 28:20). |
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Other ways to Make Disciples
EVEnts
See all of our upcoming events at www.fpclex.org/upcoming-events.
Just Lunch
Saturday, February 24
FPC Kitchen & Assembly Room
Come share Christ's love with our neighbors experiencing homelessness. You never know how our neighbors will share that love back with you, too! Click the button below to email Mike Skidmore, FPC Just Lunch Coordinator, to RSVP to help out.
Saturday, February 24
FPC Kitchen & Assembly Room
Come share Christ's love with our neighbors experiencing homelessness. You never know how our neighbors will share that love back with you, too! Click the button below to email Mike Skidmore, FPC Just Lunch Coordinator, to RSVP to help out.
Sunday Supper
Sunday, March 24 at 5:45PM
Assembly Room
This month, we'll remind ourselves that making disciples can be fun! Join us for trivia night led by our trivia masters Kirk Abraham and John Bowes. (Please RSVP so we can plan for your participation.)
Sunday, March 24 at 5:45PM
Assembly Room
This month, we'll remind ourselves that making disciples can be fun! Join us for trivia night led by our trivia masters Kirk Abraham and John Bowes. (Please RSVP so we can plan for your participation.)
Just Lunch
Saturday, March 30
FPC Kitchen & Assembly Room
Come share Christ's love with our neighbors experiencing homelessness. You never know how our neighbors will share that love back with you, too! Click the button below to email Mike Skidmore, FPC Just Lunch Coordinator, to RSVP to help out.
Saturday, March 30
FPC Kitchen & Assembly Room
Come share Christ's love with our neighbors experiencing homelessness. You never know how our neighbors will share that love back with you, too! Click the button below to email Mike Skidmore, FPC Just Lunch Coordinator, to RSVP to help out.
IN WORSHIP
Here's more about how we'll explore the practice of "Make Disciples" in worship this month.
February 18: Live Like a Disciple
As disciples, we live our faith in our own particular ways, yet we are united in following Jesus and embodying his character.
February 25: Go
Where can I spread good news today?
March 3: Baptize
Baptism invites us into a community where we belong to God and to one another.
March 10: Be a Witness
Find opportunities to talk about what we know and understand about Jesus and seek opportunities to show love to people in need.
March 17: Teach & Learn About Jesus
Nurturing faith through various kinds of teaching and learning is an act of hospitality and compassion.
March 24 (Palm Sunday): Trust in Jesus’ Presence Always
We are not alone as disciples, nor are we alone in making disciples.
March 31 (Easter Sunday): Be Amazed
Christ is risen! We are his disciples, sent to share the Good News.
February 18: Live Like a Disciple
As disciples, we live our faith in our own particular ways, yet we are united in following Jesus and embodying his character.
February 25: Go
Where can I spread good news today?
March 3: Baptize
Baptism invites us into a community where we belong to God and to one another.
March 10: Be a Witness
Find opportunities to talk about what we know and understand about Jesus and seek opportunities to show love to people in need.
March 17: Teach & Learn About Jesus
Nurturing faith through various kinds of teaching and learning is an act of hospitality and compassion.
March 24 (Palm Sunday): Trust in Jesus’ Presence Always
We are not alone as disciples, nor are we alone in making disciples.
March 31 (Easter Sunday): Be Amazed
Christ is risen! We are his disciples, sent to share the Good News.
ADULT FORUM
You can participate in the Adult Forum class in-person or on Zoom. More details are here.
ADULT FORUM
February 18, 25, March 3, 10, and 17
Make Disciples: The Great Commission as a Way of Life
Join Professor Anna Bowden on Sundays during Lent as we embark on an exploration of the
Great Commission and seek to understand our call to make disciples of all nations (Matt 28:18-
20). In this five-week course we will explore the gospel’s historical context, unpack scenes
concerned with feeding the poor and healing the sick, and examine Jesus’s teaching, preaching,
and parables in Matthew. As we journey together through this gospel, a richer and more
meaningful understanding of the Great Commission will emerge—making disciples isn’t a call to
evangelism, it’s a way of life.
Anna M. V. Bowden is Assistant Professor of New Testament at Louisville Presbyterian
Theological Seminary. Her research and writing focus on the lives of first-century Jesus
followers in Roman-controlled cities and on the ways the New Testament demonstrates how early
Jesus-followers negotiated their commitment to God’s transformative purposes.
Palm Sunday: March 24
Annual Stations of the Cross Walk
Meet at 9AM in the Assembly Room to join in a 1 mile walk through downtown Lexington. The
Stations of the Cross represent episodes in Jesus’ last days. Join us for a new interpretation of the
Stations through the lens of race & local history as we walk to sites downtown.
Led by Susan Buhrow; Reverend Linda Kurtz
EASTER , March 31
No Adult Forum
ADULT FORUM
February 18, 25, March 3, 10, and 17
Make Disciples: The Great Commission as a Way of Life
Join Professor Anna Bowden on Sundays during Lent as we embark on an exploration of the
Great Commission and seek to understand our call to make disciples of all nations (Matt 28:18-
20). In this five-week course we will explore the gospel’s historical context, unpack scenes
concerned with feeding the poor and healing the sick, and examine Jesus’s teaching, preaching,
and parables in Matthew. As we journey together through this gospel, a richer and more
meaningful understanding of the Great Commission will emerge—making disciples isn’t a call to
evangelism, it’s a way of life.
Anna M. V. Bowden is Assistant Professor of New Testament at Louisville Presbyterian
Theological Seminary. Her research and writing focus on the lives of first-century Jesus
followers in Roman-controlled cities and on the ways the New Testament demonstrates how early
Jesus-followers negotiated their commitment to God’s transformative purposes.
Palm Sunday: March 24
Annual Stations of the Cross Walk
Meet at 9AM in the Assembly Room to join in a 1 mile walk through downtown Lexington. The
Stations of the Cross represent episodes in Jesus’ last days. Join us for a new interpretation of the
Stations through the lens of race & local history as we walk to sites downtown.
Led by Susan Buhrow; Reverend Linda Kurtz
EASTER , March 31
No Adult Forum
VIDEOS
Use these videos from our "Follow Me" curriculum resources to spur your own thought, or as discussion starters in your household, small group, and beyond.
Week 1: Live Like a Disciple
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Week 2: Go
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Week 3: Baptize
Week 5: Teach and Learn About Jesus
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Week 4: Be a Witness
Week 6: Trust in Jesus' Presence Always
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Further video resources on Make Disciples:
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These videos are meant especially for kids and/or their parents.
BoOKS & OTHER RESOURCES
Books
Websites & articles
Podcasts
Children's book recommendations
- Being Disciples: Essentials of the Christian Life by Rowan Williams
- Accidental Saints by Nadia Bolz-Weber
- A Year of Biblical Womanhood by Rachel Held Evans
Websites & articles
Podcasts
- The Bible for Normal People: Jared Byas - What It Means to Take the Bible Literally
- The Bible for Normal People: Jonathan Jong - How Scientists Study Religion
- The Bible for Normal People: Dale C. Allison - Approaching the Resurrection of Jesus as a Historian
- The Bible for Normal People: Pete Enns - Staying Christian Is Hard, Isn't It?
- Everything Happens with Kate Bowler: The Caring Power of Community with Angela Williams
- Everything Happens with Kate Bowler: Life Worth Living with Miroslav Volf
- Everything Happens with Kate Bowler: Full Circle Faith with Jeff Chu
Children's book recommendations
- Inch by Inch: The Garden Song by David Mallett
- The Invisible String by Patrice Karst
- The Good for Nothing Tree by Amy Jill-Levine and Sandy Eisenberg Sasso
- Oh, the Places You’ll Go! by Dr. Seuss
- Be Kind by Pat Zietlow Miller
ACTIVITIES FOR CHILDREN
NURTURE YOUR OWN RELATIONSHIP WITH GOD
A much-loved church leader was asked to identify the biggest influence in his own faith formation. This man, who had studied theology at the most prestigious schools and been mentored by great teachers, answered, “Seeing my father pray and read his Bible daily.” We teach our children how to be disciples by being disciples. When parents/caregivers prioritize their own relationship with God, children learn what it means to live an authentic life of faith and see that discipleship is a lifelong journey. Let children not only see you reading the Bible, having a devotional or meditation time, engaging in prayer, and wrestling with faith questions, but invite them into these practices as well.
GO WHERE GOOD NEWS IS NEEDED
Supplies: ingredients for a meal or baked item The New Testament documents missionary journeys taken by Paul and his companions as they took the good news about Jesus to people in distant places. Talk together about what might be some not-so-distant places where you see someone who could use good news. Consider people in your neighborhood (include business and services you frequent) who might be grieving; lonely; overwhelmed with a new child, job, or move; or such. Make a meal or bake something to share. Plan, make, and deliver together as a family.
CALLING ALL GRANDPARENTS
Grandparents and older adult friends or church members can be wonderful models of lifelong discipleship. Set up regular times to visit and nurture these relationships. Use video calls for those who live at a distance or for times when an in-person visit may not be available. Encourage conversations about faith journeys and questions from all participants.
FAITH STORY TIMELINES
Supplies: several sheets of paper taped together, pencils, markers, crayons
Draw a timeline of your life. Note experiences and relationships that played a role in your faith development. Chart highs and lows. Consider the following questions and mark them on the timeline:
Who first told you about Jesus? Where did that happen?
When were times when God felt very real and close?
When did God seem far away?
Where did you see God at work in the world? In your relationships?
TEACHING ONE ANOTHER
Disciples are learners. Disciple-makers are teachers who share what they have learned. Some, particularly children, have a hard time seeing themselves as teachers. Encourage each family member to teach the rest of the family a skill or something they have learned. Young children can teach a song or a silly dance move. Children of any age could also teach a lesson in pop culture by introducing a favorite superhero, singer, or influencer. Have fun learning from one another. Affirm both the teaching and the learning.
INVITING OTHERS
When we see a good movie, we tell others about it. When we find a good park or restaurant, we may invite friends to join us on our next trip. Identify church events that others might enjoy and people who could be invited. Develop a plan for each family member to invite someone to a specific activity. Encourage one another as you follow up.
THE INVISIBLE STRING
Supplies: The Invisible String by Patrice Karst (DeVorss Publications, 2018) or internet-connected device When twins Jeremy and Liza are awakened by a storm, their mother tells them what she learned from her mother. No matter where they are or what is happening, an invisible string connects them to her and all they love. They are never alone.
Read together
The Invisible String by Patrice Karst or watch the YouTube video “The Invisible String” (bit.ly/FMInvisibleString, 5:26). Check out The Invisible String Activity Kit provided by the author at bit.ly/FMInvisibleStringActivities.
Talk with your child about Jesus’ promise to always be with us. When they are anxious, remind them of the invisible string that connects them to you and all they love, including Jesus.
TRUSTING IN JESUS’ PRESENCE
Jesus reassured his disciples with the promise of his constant presence. Disciple-making can be scary. Going to school can be scary. Raising children can be scary. Trust in Jesus’ presence, and reassure your children that Jesus is always with them. Gently invite children to talk about their fears. Share how you manage your own fears, being careful not to use examples that would add to their fears. Pray together about scary things. Remember that your church family
loves and supports you all. Start each day with a word of blessing to each other, such as “Jesus is with you. Let your light shine today.”
FAMILY CONVERSATION STARTERS
What do you say when you are introducing someone?
What do you want others to know about the person you are introducing?
How would you introduce Jesus to someone?
What would you want others to know about him?
How would you describe your church to someone who has never been to church?
What do you do? Why do you do those things?
What do you like about your church?
How would you describe a disciple?
Who models to you what a disciple is?
What helps you learn about Jesus?
When you are anxious or scared, how can you remember that Jesus is with you?
A much-loved church leader was asked to identify the biggest influence in his own faith formation. This man, who had studied theology at the most prestigious schools and been mentored by great teachers, answered, “Seeing my father pray and read his Bible daily.” We teach our children how to be disciples by being disciples. When parents/caregivers prioritize their own relationship with God, children learn what it means to live an authentic life of faith and see that discipleship is a lifelong journey. Let children not only see you reading the Bible, having a devotional or meditation time, engaging in prayer, and wrestling with faith questions, but invite them into these practices as well.
GO WHERE GOOD NEWS IS NEEDED
Supplies: ingredients for a meal or baked item The New Testament documents missionary journeys taken by Paul and his companions as they took the good news about Jesus to people in distant places. Talk together about what might be some not-so-distant places where you see someone who could use good news. Consider people in your neighborhood (include business and services you frequent) who might be grieving; lonely; overwhelmed with a new child, job, or move; or such. Make a meal or bake something to share. Plan, make, and deliver together as a family.
CALLING ALL GRANDPARENTS
Grandparents and older adult friends or church members can be wonderful models of lifelong discipleship. Set up regular times to visit and nurture these relationships. Use video calls for those who live at a distance or for times when an in-person visit may not be available. Encourage conversations about faith journeys and questions from all participants.
FAITH STORY TIMELINES
Supplies: several sheets of paper taped together, pencils, markers, crayons
Draw a timeline of your life. Note experiences and relationships that played a role in your faith development. Chart highs and lows. Consider the following questions and mark them on the timeline:
Who first told you about Jesus? Where did that happen?
When were times when God felt very real and close?
When did God seem far away?
Where did you see God at work in the world? In your relationships?
TEACHING ONE ANOTHER
Disciples are learners. Disciple-makers are teachers who share what they have learned. Some, particularly children, have a hard time seeing themselves as teachers. Encourage each family member to teach the rest of the family a skill or something they have learned. Young children can teach a song or a silly dance move. Children of any age could also teach a lesson in pop culture by introducing a favorite superhero, singer, or influencer. Have fun learning from one another. Affirm both the teaching and the learning.
INVITING OTHERS
When we see a good movie, we tell others about it. When we find a good park or restaurant, we may invite friends to join us on our next trip. Identify church events that others might enjoy and people who could be invited. Develop a plan for each family member to invite someone to a specific activity. Encourage one another as you follow up.
THE INVISIBLE STRING
Supplies: The Invisible String by Patrice Karst (DeVorss Publications, 2018) or internet-connected device When twins Jeremy and Liza are awakened by a storm, their mother tells them what she learned from her mother. No matter where they are or what is happening, an invisible string connects them to her and all they love. They are never alone.
Read together
The Invisible String by Patrice Karst or watch the YouTube video “The Invisible String” (bit.ly/FMInvisibleString, 5:26). Check out The Invisible String Activity Kit provided by the author at bit.ly/FMInvisibleStringActivities.
Talk with your child about Jesus’ promise to always be with us. When they are anxious, remind them of the invisible string that connects them to you and all they love, including Jesus.
TRUSTING IN JESUS’ PRESENCE
Jesus reassured his disciples with the promise of his constant presence. Disciple-making can be scary. Going to school can be scary. Raising children can be scary. Trust in Jesus’ presence, and reassure your children that Jesus is always with them. Gently invite children to talk about their fears. Share how you manage your own fears, being careful not to use examples that would add to their fears. Pray together about scary things. Remember that your church family
loves and supports you all. Start each day with a word of blessing to each other, such as “Jesus is with you. Let your light shine today.”
FAMILY CONVERSATION STARTERS
What do you say when you are introducing someone?
What do you want others to know about the person you are introducing?
How would you introduce Jesus to someone?
What would you want others to know about him?
How would you describe your church to someone who has never been to church?
What do you do? Why do you do those things?
What do you like about your church?
How would you describe a disciple?
Who models to you what a disciple is?
What helps you learn about Jesus?
When you are anxious or scared, how can you remember that Jesus is with you?
ACTIVITIES FOR YOUTH
FAMILY CONVERSATION STARTERS
What do you say when you are introducing someone?
What do you want others to know about the person you are introducing?
How would you introduce Jesus to someone?
What would you want others to know about him?
How would you describe your church to someone who has never been to church?
What do you do? Why do you do those things?
What do you like about your church?
How would you describe a disciple?
Who models to you what a disciple is?
What helps you learn about Jesus?
When you are anxious or scared, how can you remember that Jesus is with you?
INVITING OTHERS
When we see a good movie, we tell others about it. When we find a good park or restaurant, we may invite friends to join us on our next trip. Identify church events that others might enjoy and people who could be invited. Develop a plan for each family member to invite someone to a specific activity. Encourage one another as you follow up.