How to nurture disciples
Practical ways that churches can encourage their members to be Christian witnesses in their daily lives
THE ‘FROM ANECDOTE TO EVIDENCE’ research shows that churches that were actively nurturing disciples were more likely to be growing. In seeking to grow in number it is important not to neglect growth in terms of spiritual depth.
Offering Bible studies, prayer groups and retreats was linked to growth as was the provision of evangelistic and nurture courses to teach the faith.
It was also shown to be important to help support people who attend church to live as Christians in their daily lives.
Key fact from the research:
Two-thirds of churches which said they offered encouragement through specific discipleship courses or courses preparing members to be a Christian witness in their daily lives, showed growth. In those who reported none, or some emphasis through preaching, less than half were growing.
But the seed falling on good soil refers to someone who hears the word and understands it. This is the one who produces a crop, yielding a hundred, sixty or thirty times what was sown.
Matthew 13:23
Resources
Bible study
This Bible study is by Revd Nick Atkins. The Bible study discusses nurturing disciples, both new and existing. Download file.
Score card
This score card can be used alongside the worksheet for this factor to help group members to reach an overall score for the factor or to help identify areas for further development. Download file.
Spiritual growth interactive exercise
This interactive exercise can be used alongside or in place of the discussion questions on the worksheet card in order to help group members explore this particular factor that is related to growth. Download file.
Faith in daily life
This interactive exercise can be used alongside or in place of the discussion questions on the worksheet card in order to help group members explore this particular factor that is related to growth. Download file.
Bible study 2
This Bible study is by Revd Eddie Gree and is about nurturing new disciples. Download file.
Related resources
MYCN Ignite resource and webinar for engaging unchurched young people
Children, young people and families
Doubling the number of young active disciples by 2030
Leading your congregation through change
