Multiplication is much more powerful than addition. It wasn't enough for Jesus to merely teach his disciples about the Kingdom. It was imperative he teach them to tell others.
A quick look through the Acts of the Apostles shows the disciples understood that Jesus' intentions were for them to multiply, not just add. If a disciple were to win one convert a month without discipling them 12 people would be added to the church in a year. If, however, each convert were taught how to lead another to Christ and to disciple their convert to do the same then they would multiply. Shortly after Jesus returned to his Father “...the number of the disciples was multiplied.” (Acts 6:1) Then, “...the churches throughout all Judea, Galilee, and Samaria... were multiplied.” (Acts 9:31) That is what discipleship is about. Church is not a professional minister cheered on by spectator members. It is a discipling and training ministry, each one discipling one.
Discipleship is “developing deeply spiritual friendships focused on teaching biblical truth, applying Scripture to life, and learning to solve problems biblically.” To make disciples requires time and personal involvement, yes, sacrifice! Jesus didn't say, “If you have a chance, please make some disciples.” No, he is much more direct. He commanded, “Go! Make disciples!” Making disciples is our life as a follower of Jesus, not our sideline!
What are you really living for? Are you multiplying?
Thinking it over . . .
When Jesus gave final instruction to his disciples what did he tell them to do? How?
How would you describe a New Testament disciple of Jesus?
Looking at the progress of the early disciples and early church what do we learn from their example?
What did they do that we should be doing today?
What is the difference between multiplication and addition? Do seeds add or multiply? Are we planting seeds?
What can you do to become a disciple of Jesus that is reproducing disciples of Jesus? How can your small group be involved in making disciples? What do you expect from your church in making disciples? How can your pastor help you to become a reproducing disciple of Jesus? (Let him know!)
Scripture Reading
Matthew 28:18-20 (http://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Matthew%2028:18-20;&version=50)
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