“Discipling from the ground up” – a missionary moment

I have narrowed down my many contacts to eleven people – to closely disciple, equip and train. Discipleship is messy and committing to walk closely with these people is a test of my patience, resolve, and even faith in the whole discipleship process. Amidst it all, my greatest
encouragement is hearing their testimonies of how they first heard of the Lord and how He is working in their lives.

These contacts mention that they heard about Jesus but never quite crossed the line because whoever shared the gospel with them left them with no follow-up. This was difficult because there were no churches in their villages or known disciples from whom they could get any teaching or fellowship. Many fell off along the way even though they seemed to like what they had heard. They are thankful that engaging with the scriptures in Bible study with us has been helpful for them in understanding the gospel.

I am continually reminded of God’s call on all believers – make disciples and not converts, to teach them and walk with them to maturity. Paul says, he “proclaim(s) Christ, admonishing and teaching everyone with all wisdom so that they may present everyone fully mature in Christ using all the energy that Christ supplies them.” Colossians 1:28
-Ugandan missionary