I’m at a pastors’ conference in New Castle, NH and we’re discussing this important question: How do you know your disciple-making is working? Here’s my take on it…
Jesus said, “A disciple is not above his teacher, but everyone when he is fully trained will be like his teacher.” (Lk 6:40) Therefore, you objectively know your disciple-making efforts are working when the people who attend your church start looking like Jesus (in character and conduct).
Jesus was a servant.
Jesus was in community with other believers.
Jesus lived an evangelistic lifestyle.
Jesus memorized Scripture.
Jesus prioritized time alone with God.
Jesus showed compassion for the suffering and marginalized.
Jesus was forgiving.
Jesus modeled sacrificial giving.
Etc. Etc. Etc.
And we objectively know our disciple-making efforts are working when we see our people doing these same things (and many more not listed above). The measure isn’t “Do your people look exactly like Jesus?” but rather “Are your people slowly but surely being conformed to the image of Jesus in ever-increasing measure?”