The Pathway at a Glance
Encounter
-- A friend encounter that leads to a faith encounter.
This is the beginning of the journey. Our lives must intersect with those who are lost and far away from God. We must go where they live, work, and play so that we can connect and make friends. We may encounter people multiple times before a genuine friendship begins. In step one, we may have an opportunity to share the gospel.
Engage
When we engage people, we take time to develop personal relationships with them. This is more than a simple encounter. These people are lost and far away from God, and we are trying to help them find their way in God's story. In this step, we share the life-changing gospel of Jesus Christ so they might come to faith in Jesus.
Equip
The third step in the disciple-making pathway is to equip new believers. In this step, we teach them how to follow Jesus. We give them the tools they need to serve God and His church. We show them how to live holy lives, and how to be victorious over sin in this world. During this step, there is potential for exponential spiritual growth.
Empower
Work yourself out of a job by giving ministry to those you've been equipping; replace yourself. Create opportunities for service and give responsibilities away to people you have equipped. Work alongside them and hold them accountable. Watch God work in their lives.
Encourage
Consistently give attention and praise to the people you are discipling. Care for their souls. One of the most important things you can do is motivate and encourage them. Finding creative ways to refresh their hearts will encourage them to serve Jesus in greater ways. This will create an atmosphere of anticipation and joy over service.
Emulate
This last step is a true milestone in the disciple-making process. You have helped someone find their way in God's story. They have trusted Christ for salvation and are faithfully following Him. Now, the follower becomes the leader. The student becomes the teacher. The new disciple is expected to emulate you and reproduce the process by making another disciple. Disciples make disciples, who make disciples.