When Jesus gave the Great Commission, He called His followers to “go and make disciples of all nations” (Matthew 28:19, NIV). This command is at the heart of the Christian faith, yet startling statistics reveal that less than 5% of churches in the United States actively engage in disciple-making. This begs the question: why is disciple-making not more prevalent, and how can we change this narrative?
The Biblical Mandate for Disciple-Making
The call to make disciples is clear throughout the New Testament. In Matthew 28:18-20, Jesus commands His followers to baptize people and teach them to obey everything He has commanded. Similarly, in 2 Timothy 2:2 (NIV), Paul instructs Timothy, “And the things you have heard me say in the presence of many witnesses entrust to reliable people who will also be qualified to teach others.” The model is one of multiplication: disciples making disciples who make disciples.
However, the reality is that many churches are not engaging in this critical mission. Instead, they may focus on growing their congregation, maintaining programs, or even emphasizing entertainment over spiritual growth. While these things aren’t inherently wrong, they often come at the expense of fulfilling the Great Commission.
Why Aren’t More Churches Making Disciples?
Dr. Thom S. Rainer, a church consultant and author, has identified several reasons why disciple-making is lacking in many churches. He argues that many churches have shifted their focus from spiritual formation to programs that draw a crowd but fail to nurture deep, transformative relationships with Christ. “We have become so obsessed with attendance, offerings, and other numerical indicators that we have lost sight of the biblical mandate to make disciples,” Rainer notes.
The lack of intentionality in disciple-making often stems from the misconception that discipleship is an optional extra, rather than the core mission of the church. Dr. Greg Ogden, author of Transforming Discipleship, says, “Many church leaders believe discipleship is a program or a curriculum, but true discipleship is a relational investment in people.”
Another factor is the consumer culture that has infiltrated the church. Dallas Willard, a renowned Christian philosopher, stated, “The greatest issue facing the world today, with all its heartbreaking needs, is whether those who are identified as ‘Christians’ will become disciples—students, apprentices, practitioners—of Jesus Christ.” This quote highlights the critical need for churches to move beyond simply attracting attendees to nurturing mature, obedient followers of Christ.
The Path Forward: A Return to Relational Disciple-Making
To address this issue, churches must return to the roots of disciple-making as modeled by Jesus. His ministry was deeply relational. Jesus invested in a small group of disciples, teaching them, living life with them, and equipping them to carry on His mission. As churches seek to reclaim this biblical model, the focus must shift from mere attendance and programs to intentional, life-on-life discipleship.
Ephesians 4:11-12 (NIV) reminds us that Christ gave leaders to the church “to equip his people for works of service, so that the body of Christ may be built up.” This means that every believer has a role in the disciple-making process. It’s not just the job of the pastor or church staff; it’s the responsibility of every follower of Christ to make disciples.
Practical Steps for Churches
- Prioritize Discipleship in Vision and Mission: Church leaders should clearly communicate that disciple-making is the primary mission of the church. This focus should be reflected in the church’s vision, mission, and everyday practices.
- Create Relational Discipleship Models: Small groups, mentorship programs, and one-on-one discipleship relationships are powerful tools for fostering spiritual growth. Churches can implement systems that encourage members to build deep, accountable relationships centered on Christ.
- Equip and Empower Leaders: Church leaders must be equipped to disciple others. This includes training them to teach, mentor, and model Christ-like living. Leaders should then empower others to disciple, creating a multiplying effect.
- Shift from Programs to People: While programs have their place, they should not replace personal relationships. Focus on people over programs by encouraging meaningful connections that lead to spiritual growth.
- Cultivate a Culture of Obedience and Accountability: Discipleship isn’t just about knowledge; it’s about obedience to Christ’s teachings. Churches should foster a culture of accountability where believers are encouraged to live out their faith in practical ways.
Time to Improve the Stats
The statistic that less than 5% of US churches make disciples is a sobering reminder of the urgent need to realign with the biblical mandate. As we return to the relational disciple-making model exemplified by Jesus, we can ignite a movement that transforms not just our churches but our communities and beyond. By prioritizing discipleship, equipping leaders, and focusing on relational growth, the church can fulfill its mission to “go and make disciples” and see lives transformed for the glory of God.
As Matthew 9:37 (NIV) reminds us, “The harvest is plentiful but the workers are few.” The church must rise to the challenge, equipping every believer to be a disciple who makes disciples, thereby fulfilling the Great Commission and bringing lasting impact to the world.