Is Your Church Part of the 4% or 96%? 

In today's rapidly changing world, the Church's mission remains timeless: to make disciples of all nations. Yet, startling statistics reveal that only 4% of churches in America actively engage in discipleship, while a staggering 96% do not. This begs the question—where does your church stand?

The Great Commission: Our Mandate

The foundation of discipleship is rooted in Jesus' command in Matthew 28:19-20 (NIV): "Therefore go and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit, and teaching them to obey everything I have commanded you. And surely I am with you always, to the very end of the age.”

This passage, known as the Great Commission, is the Church’s primary mission. Yet, many churches struggle to fulfill this call effectively. According to a study by The Barna Group, only 4% of churches in the United States prioritize making disciples. The remaining 96% may focus on other aspects of ministry, but often fall short in this critical area.

Understanding Discipleship

Discipleship is not merely a program or an event; it is a process of spiritual growth and transformation. Dallas Willard, a renowned Christian philosopher, and author, emphasizes that "discipleship is the process of becoming who Jesus would be if He were you." This process involves teaching, accountability, and spiritual disciplines that lead believers to live out their faith in every area of their lives.

Why Churches Struggle with Discipleship

So, why do so many churches struggle with discipleship? One reason is the temptation to focus on numerical growth rather than spiritual depth. It’s easy to measure success by attendance, but harder to gauge the spiritual maturity of those in the pews. Francis Chan, author of Crazy Love and a passionate advocate for discipleship, warns, "We’ve twisted the gospel to fit our church culture, where it’s more about attendance than transformation."

Another challenge is the lack of intentionality in creating a discipleship culture. Discipleship requires commitment, resources, and a clear vision. Many churches may start with good intentions but lack the structure and leadership to sustain ongoing discipleship efforts.

The Power of a Disciple-Making Church

Churches that prioritize discipleship witness profound transformation. Acts 2:42-47 (NIV) provides a glimpse of the early Church's commitment to discipleship: "They devoted themselves to the apostles’ teaching and to fellowship, to the breaking of bread and to prayer… And the Lord added to their number daily those who were being saved."

This passage highlights the connection between discipleship and growth—both spiritual and numerical. When churches focus on making disciples, they cultivate a community of believers who are equipped to live out their faith and share the gospel with others.

Practical Steps to Become a Disciple-Making Church

1. Cultivate a Culture of Discipleship: Lead by example. Pastors and leaders should model discipleship in their own lives and encourage others to do the same.

2. Develop a Clear Strategy: Create a discipleship plan that includes Bible study, mentorship, and opportunities for spiritual growth. Ensure that every member of the church has a pathway to becoming a disciple and making disciples.

3. Empower Leaders: Train and equip leaders to disciple others. This multiplication of discipleship is crucial for sustained growth.

4. Focus on Transformation, Not Just Information: Discipleship is not about head knowledge alone. Encourage heart transformation and obedience to Christ's teachings.

5. Use Technology and Resources: Leverage tools and resources to reach people where they are. Whether through online courses, small groups, or one-on-one mentorship, technology can help bridge the gap and make discipleship more accessible.

A Call to Action

Ephesians 4:11-13 (NIV) reminds us that Christ gave us apostles, prophets, evangelists, pastors, and teachers, "to equip his people for works of service, so that the body of Christ may be built up until we all reach unity in the faith and in the knowledge of the Son of God and become mature, attaining to the whole measure of the fullness of Christ."

The challenge for every church is to ask itself: Are we equipping our people to become mature followers of Christ? Are we part of the 4% who are making disciples, or the 96% who aren't?

As John Piper, a prominent theologian and pastor, once said, "The greatest injustice in the world is to ignore the plight of the lost, and the greatest privilege in the world is to be an instrument in the hands of God to rescue them."

Now is the time for churches to rise to the challenge, commit to discipleship, and fulfill the Great Commission. The world is watching, and the harvest is plentiful (Luke 10:2). Will your church be among the few who answer the call?

By prioritizing discipleship, your church can move from being part of the 96% to joining the 4% who are truly following Jesus' command to make disciples of all nations.

Let's commit to making disciples who make disciples, so that the world may know the love and power of Jesus Christ.