Introduction
Much has been made of the prominence of the term "disciple" in the New Testament. While used extensively in the gospels, the term is used sparingly in Acts and never appears again in the New Testament, being replaced in favor of other terms. This change must be understood; it cannot be dismissed or ignored. What follows is my perspective on how to be true to the gospels, Acts and the rest of the New Testament concerning this evidence, and a way to make it practical in the church today. This discussion is not intended to tear down what good has been done but to utilize the Scripture to help us improve our doctrine and ministries.

There is a warning here: this will strike to the very heart of our understanding the gospel. We might be apprehensive of such an examination, but this reminds me of a lesson I learned many years ago. As a youth I learned to do electric welding. When I first started, the pieces of metal would be joined together not by a good weld but by slag-- flakes of oxidized metal. Though the pieces appeared joined, when struck with a hammer the slag would crack and reveal that no successful weld had been made. I dreaded hitting my welds with a hammer until I got better at welding; then I realized a good strike of the hammer proved my work was good.

From this experience I have learned that testing should never be feared. It always reveals what you have-- something that is good survives test after test. But if something fails a test, that is a good thing: it gives you a chance to fix the thing that failed the test.

The medieval monk Abelard said, "The first key to wisdom is assiduous and frequent questioning. For by doubting we come to inquiry, and by inquiry we arrive at the truth." Do not fear examining this topic; embrace it. For by questioning you will understand it better. And that is the point of this work-- to better understand the concept of discipleship in the Scriptures, that it may most accurately apply in our lives today.

It is my hope that these ideas will bring true blessings into your life and ministry.

Part 1- Disciples, Followers and Believers
Part 2- Organizational Models for Christian Training
Part 3- Suggested Changes
Appendix A- The Greek Text of Matthew 28:18-20
Appendix B- A Faith Study

Copyright © 1999,2000 John Engler. All rights reserved.