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What’s Up
You can’t make disciples if you don’t have a plan – which is why most churches are filled with church members, not committed disciples of Jesus!
So What
Most churches have no clue how to move someone from “visitor” to “missionary.” There’s no discipleship strategy. That’s why people slip through the cracks … or worse, never grow up in Christ.
The Point Is
Start With What You Have
No need to reinvent the wheel. Your church already has programs, ministries, and people that can support the discipleship journey. Take stock of what’s already in place. Name every asset, from your welcome team to your small group ministry. Inventory first.
Identify What’s Missing
Here’s where the cracks show. You’ll likely find zero support for helping someone go from unbeliever to believer, or from attendee to active disciple. That’s your cue. Name the gaps. If you don’t know where they are, you’ll never fix them.
Fill the Gaps Strategically
In bigger churches, filling the pipeline might be as simple as launching an Alpha Course or plugging in a curriculum. In smaller churches, this is where mentoring shines. Pair newer believers with someone who will walk with them with intention, training, and accountability. Discipleship is personal. So make it personal.
And … ?
Every church needs a discipleship funnel. A pathway. A pipeline. Whatever you call it, you need one. From the first visit to a life on mission, there must be clear steps that help people believe, behave, and become the disciple Jesus called them to be.
Preaching alone won’t cut it. You may stir hearts and even spark conviction, but a sermon can’t replace structured spiritual formation. It takes a strategy to turn inspiration into transformation. It takes mentoring, accountability, and the intentional development of spiritual habits. If you don’t define the path, don’t expect anyone to find it.
Action!
If you don’t currently have a strategy, then you need to grab a copy of the Disciple Making Blueprint and put your plan together now!
