Disciplers Handbook
The Martyrs
1
Blessed be the Lord Jesus Christ - our Chief Shepherd, who has given us the great
privilege of serving as co-laborers in the vineyard of the Father, even an extension of
his Kingdom here on earth. It’s with great delight that we present this manual based on
the vision “Every Disciple, A Discipler”, which as an apostolic community has been
our burden for a very long while as nurtured by the Spirit of Christ. This manual is
designed to give basic directives on the assignment of discipling the nations, and how
to make it effective as a young discipler: whether in The Martyrs apostolic community
or not. It contains practical experiences that are easily identifiable and relatable in
many social settings. In a specific sense, the methods here are what we have used as
per the pattern the Lord has taught us as a family and can definitely be built upon with
reference to the pattern the Lord has given any other ministry. As you read to learn,
position yourself to go out discipling all tongues! The Lord bless you!
With love, Sir Elorm and the Martyrs Discipleship Team.
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All scripture quotations in this book are from the King James Version of the Bible,
unless otherwise specified.
Keys for other Bible translations used
NIV – New International Version
ESV – English Standard Version
AMP – The Amplified Bible
Contents
Discipleship: God’s method of adoption (placing of sons) ........................................................ 1
The Core Mandate - Discipling all nations ................................................................................. 3
The Art of Shepherding .............................................................................................................. 5
Biblical Perspective of Shepherding ....................................................................................... 5
The Link between the Natural Shepherding and Biblical Shepherding ................................. 6
The Lord as a Shepherd .......................................................................................................... 7
The Ambassadorial Perspective of a Shepherd ...................................................................... 8
The motherhood dimension of Shepherding......................................................................... 10
Fatherhood dimension of Shepherding ................................................................................. 10
The Responsibility of the Shepherd Toward His Personal Development ............................ 10
Duties of The Sheep Towards the Shepherd......................................................................... 11
Character of a Discipler ............................................................................................................ 13
Relating with disciples as a discipler. ....................................................................................... 16
The Shepherd as an example .................................................................................................... 19
Challenges of Discipleship ....................................................................................................... 20
Building the Skill of Teaching .............................................................................................. 24
Discipling under a ministry .................................................................................................. 27
Family Life (Flock Life) in Discipleship .................................................................................. 30
Cell System ........................................................................................................................... 33
The Importance of Discipleship................................................................................................ 34
Prayers made for the Shepherds (Apostles) .............................................................................. 36
Discipleship: God’s method of adoption (placing of sons)
Uihothesia speaks of the adoption of children and it is an ancient Roman term.
Interestingly, we see it just about 5 times in the writings of Apostle Paul. In the Roman
perspective, "uihothesia" establishes a balance, envisioning a Roman father passing down his
wealth and estates. Recognizing that he won't be around forever, especially in his old age, he
starts preparing his son(s) to manage and inherit all he possesses.
If a Roman father doesn't have a son, it becomes a source of concern for him. The reason is that
during those times, a father couldn't entrust his hard-earned wealth to a child with no experience
in commerce and business. The security and stability of his estate are at a significant risk, both
when he's alive and in his old age, because there's uncertainty about the future management of
his legacy.
Here's where uihothesia, or the adoption of children, becomes crucial. In the absence of a
biological son, the father faces the challenge of seeking a more distant relative or sometimes
even someone unrelated by blood. Upon identifying specific indicators of strong leadership
qualities, he initiates the formal legal adoption process according to Roman law. Subsequently,
he embarks on the demanding journey of raising and educating the adopted child. Research
suggests that the educational system for inheritance is comprehensive and meticulous during
this period.
From the literal Roman perspective, it might merely be an adoption of sons but breaking the
word down gives you two roots; uihos - son (generically) and tithēmi - to set, place, establish,
make
It is through this similar process that God, through men ensures that there is a preservation of
kingdom culture, as they are passed down to faithful men. It is through that these faithful men
begin to mature due to the education the father will take the son through to be able to also pass
it on.
And the things which thou hast heard from me among many witnesses, the same commit thou
to faithful men, who shall be able to teach others also. (2 Timothy 2:2)
Apostle Paul in his letter to his disciple Timothy, tells him to commit that which he had heard
from him to faithful men, who shall be able to pass it on to others. This is a pattern we see in
Scripture; that which the disciples heard and saw Jesus do, they also passed it on to us.
That is God’s method of pushing down a culture to a generation and ensuring continuity. Jesus
told Peter, “Follow me and I will make you…” In discipleship, men are made. As mentioned
earlier, it is through discipleship that a man is able to learn the ways of Christ, to the end that,
he conforms to His image.
For this is good and acceptable in the sight of God our Saviour; ⁴Who will have all men to be
saved, and to come unto the knowledge of the truth. 1 Timothy 2:3-4 (KJV)
The verse above elaborates that God's will is for all men to be saved and come unto the
knowledge of the truth. One of the methods by which God equips men and trains men to
conform to the image of his son is through Discipleship. The subject of discipleship must be
solidified and heralded more as it is God's method of adopting sons. Scripture speaks of the
resurrection of Christ creating an avenue for many sons to be adopted as sons of God with He
being the firstborn. In Discipleship, God places people (disciplers) over disciples. A Discipler
is someone who ardently follows Jesus in order to learn and apply his truths and to a reasonable
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extent, exemplifies the life of Christ to a point where he can pour out that life unto others in
order to guide them into conforming to the image of Christ.
And I will give you pastors according to mine heart, which shall feed you with knowledge and
understanding. Jeremiah 3:15 (KJV)
God's desire has always been that after salvation, men grow into the knowledge of the truth.
Even from the books of old, He had the desire to make sure His people always had people over
them to feed them.
When Christ died and resurrected, we died and resurrected with him through our baptism in
him. Christ's resurrection has settled all legalities and has afforded us the privilege of being
called sons of God. When we speak of sons, we do not only skew it to just being called a son
of God by reason of salvation but more importantly, maturity in the ways of God. It is under
Discipleship that a person grows to be conformed unto the image of God’s Son (Romans 8:29)
²⁹ For whom he did foreknow, he also did predestinate to be conformed to the image of his Son,
that he might be the firstborn among many brethren. Romans 8:29 (KJV)
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The Core Mandate - Discipling all nations
And he said unto them, Go ye into all the world, and preach the gospel to the whole creation.
Mark 16:15
Go ye therefore, and make disciples of all the nations, baptizing them into the name of the
Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit: (Matt 28:19)
Discipling all nations, as delivered to us by Our Lord Jesus as our core mandate, is a subject
that needs a lot of our attention. This mandate places a strong emphasis on the necessity of
actively sharing the gospel and encouraging others as they come to the saving knowledge of
the gospel. Christ did not only command us to Go ye and preach, he did command that in our
going to preach, we must ensure that the souls we speak to, not only come to the saving
knowledge of Him but also to attain a certain level of spiritual maturity. It is not enough for a
person to receive the life of Christ. it is not the end but rather a means to an end. The end is
that these individuals grow to be conformed to the image of Christ- where they look like Him.
It is the role of Discipleship to ensure that the nations are brought to the knowledge of the truth.
Nations in this verse does not necessarily mean countries, it is from the Greek word, ethnos,
which means a multitude (whether of men or of beasts) associated; a tribe; in the books of old,
it was used for foreign nations not worshipping the true God. Same in the epistles, Apostle Paul
addresses the gentile believers as nations.
Ultimately, the purpose of discipleship is to lead individuals to mature in their faith, equipping
them to become disciple-makers (Every disciple, a discipler) themselves and perpetuate the
cycle of spiritual transformation. The table below demonstrates various groups of people, their
methods and its effectiveness in promoting the core mandate. The various columns show the
number of souls won and raised as sons in a year frame. Analysing the table, by 15 years, the
evangelist, the pastor, the disciple-maker and the church planter would have raised 5,475,000,
15,000, 16, 384 and 15 souls respectively. We see a sudden turnaround in the 25th year. By 25
years, the evangelist, the pastor, the disciple-maker, and the church planter would have raised
9,125,000, 25,000, 16,777,216, and 15 souls respectively. Comparing that of the evangelist and
the disciple-maker, we have a difference of 7,652,216 and that is a huge number to talk about.
Evangelism is very great but what happens to the souls after evangelism? History and research
indicate that only 2 out of 10 souls won by evangelism still remain in the faith after a given
period of time. Emphasis must be placed on discipleship. The data under the disciple-maker
column highlights and works on the principle, Every disciple, A discipler, as we see that the
growth in the numbers is exponential whereas the others are additive. This means each disciple
in the long run, also becomes a discipler who raises other disciples and the cycle goes on. In
40 years, the disciple-maker would have raised many sons that even the summation of the rest
of the groups would not be a match.
The word discipleship can be broken down into two: disciple + ship. According to the
Cambridge Dictionary a disciple (noun) is “a person who believes in the ideas and principles
of someone famous and tries to live the way that person does or did.” The word disciple can
also be viewed as a verb where it means to teach or to train. The suffix -ship; is often used to
form nouns denoting a state, condition or quality. Hence discipleship is the state of being a
disciple (noun) or being discipled (verb). In the Greek language, the word for disciple is the
word; mathētēs which speaks of a learner or a pupil. It is derived from the word manthanō
which means to learn, be appraised to increase one’s knowledge, to be increased in knowledge.
It is from this very word we get the English word math developed further; mathematics. Thus,
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being a disciple is no simple task per say, it requires rigid, intentional, calculated acts, geared
towards growth and ‘becoming.’ The Hebrew parallel of the word mathētēs is the Hebrew word
talmıyd which speaks of a scholar but in the sense of a pupil or a student. The word talmıyd is
spelt with the Hebrew Alef- Bets; Tav (‫)ת‬, Lamed (‫)ל‬, Mem (‫ מ‬open), Yod (‫)י‬, Dalet (‫)ד‬. This
is quite an interesting word, as you begin to delve into the intricacies of each individual letter
and their congregational meaning it reveals how that a student, a disciple is one who the
teachings (Lamed) of the covenant (Tav) are revealed (Open Mem) to. The level of knowledge
available to him is the one that has been revealed to his/her teacher. At the same time this word
paints the picture of a teacher, one to whom the teachings of the covenant are revealed to so as
to give others access by extension of a hand. This further iterates the statement “Every disciple,
A discipler.”
Table 1- Discipleship Chart
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The Art of Shepherding
An art is an activity that can be learned and practiced. A skill acquired by experience, study or
observation OR an occupation requiring knowledge or skill, according to the Merriam-Webster
Dictionary. It is an occupation, profession or vocation. Why then is Shepherding an art?
Shepherding is an activity that is learned (both from the biblical and natural perspective). The
Bible explicitly states the duties of a Shepherd, for example, feeding. The Good Shepherd, the
Chief Shepherd, Jesus also laid out the pattern and the blueprint for Shepherding, even through
His personal life. By observing other Shepherds even in the Body of Christ, one can learn the
art of Shepherding. Moreover, it requires knowledge. In this case, the Word of God.
(Colossians 3:16), (Jeremiah 3:15).
And I will give you pastors according to mine heart, which shall feed you with knowledge and
understanding. Jeremiah 3:15 (KJV)
Let the word of Christ dwell in you richly in all wisdom; teaching and admonishing one another
in psalms and hymns and spiritual songs, singing with grace in your hearts to the Lord.
Colossians 3:16 (KJV)
The word ‘shepherd’ comes from the old English word ‘sceaphierde’, which means
‘Sheepherder’ or ‘herdsman.’ One who protects, guides and defends his sheep. Shepherding is
said to be one of the oldest professions. In Shepherding, the Shepherds feed the sheep with the
right proportion of ration or pasture necessary for their growth and development. He guards
and guides them so they do not fall prey to other animals. The Shepherd invests his whole life
for the sheep and their welfare.
Biblical Perspective of Shepherding
The word ‘Shepherd’ was first used in Genesis 46:32(³²And the men are shepherds, for
their trade hath been to feed cattle; and they have brought their flocks, and their herds,
and all that they have.). The Hebrew word there is “râ‛âh”. This means to tend a flock, to
pasture it; by extension, to rule. No man just becomes a Shepherd or is a ‘self-acclaimed’
Shepherd. It is God who appoints Shepherds. (Numbers 27:15-17- And Moses spake unto
the Lord, saying, ¹⁶Let the Lord, the God of the spirits of all flesh, set a man over the
congregation, ¹⁷Which may go out before them, and which may go in before them, and
which may lead them out, and which may bring them in; that the congregation of the Lord
be not as sheep which have no shepherd, Jeremiah 3:15-And I will give you pastors
according to mine heart, which shall feed you with knowledge and understanding). Using
the Hebrew pictograph you will find out that the word Shepherd is made up of 3 of the
Hebrew aleph-bet which are Resh, Ayin, Hey. From this you can establish that a Shepherd
is a head or a person (of something) that has experience or is experienced in revelation (to
guide or to show the way). People who are not guided or led in the right path, even as
they should be, are likened to sheep without a Shepherd. A Shepherd can also be likened
to a ‘Master’. (1 Kings 22:1-17 Emphasis on verse 17).
And he said, I saw all Israel scattered upon the hills, as sheep that have not a shepherd: and
the Lord said, These have no master: let them return every man to his house in peace. 1 Kings
22:17 (KJV)
From this context, King Jehoshaphat wanted to know if he could go to war and the Prophet
Micaiah described a certain vision he had in response to the king’s enquiry. In the vision, the
Prophet likened Israel to a sheep which were scattered. Then he proceeds to talk about how
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they had no master. This means that apart from the Shepherd serving the welfare of the sheep,
but he serves as a Master over the sheep as well. Master, from this extract, is 'âdôn 'âdôn’,
meaning controller. The Shepherd must exercise some form of Godly control even by the
wisdom of God, to the intent that the sheep will be well guided and instructed.
The Link between the Natural Shepherding and Biblical Shepherding
There are certain links that are deduced and established between the natural and biblical
shepherding.
Every Shepherd feeds his sheep with the appropriate ration or pasture, even in their
right proportions for growth and development of his sheep. In the same vein, the shepherd,
with reference to the Body of Christ also has a responsibility of providing feed for the sheep,
which is in the form of the Word of God. A shepherd must be able to discern and know the
level of doctrine to feed his sheep with; milk, meat or strong meat, depending on the level of
their maturity. The natural shepherd will not feed a lamb with the same amount of feed for the
mature sheep… (1 Corinthians 3:2, Hebrews 5:12).
I have fed you with milk, and not with meat: for hitherto ye were not able to bear it, neither yet
now are ye able. 1 Corinthians 3:2 (KJV)
For when for the time ye ought to be teachers, ye have need that one teach you again which be
the first principles of the oracles of God; and are become such as have need of milk, and not
of strong meat. Hebrews 5:12 (KJV)
Every shepherd protects and defends his sheep. The shepherd, even with respect to the
Body of Christ serves as a source of protection and defense for the sheep. The sheep should
always feel safe and protected around his shepherd. The staff and rod used in Psalm 23 are
used for the care and management, as well as for defense and disciplining the sheep
respectively. (Psalm 23:4- ⁴Yea, though I walk through the valley of the shadow of death, I will
fear no evil: for thou art with me; thy rod and thy staff they comfort me.). Again, the shepherd
can protect the sheep by making prayers and supplications for the sheep. Prayer is an integral
part of the life of the Shepherd even towards his sheep.
The Shepherd cleans up the mess of his flock and grooms them. The shepherd appointed
by God has the duty of cleaning up the mess of his flock by leading them on the right path
when they go astray and correcting them when they go wrong. In doing this, the shepherd needs
great patience especially when the Shepherd has more sheep. With great power comes great
responsibility. In everything that is great, both in quality and quantity the responsibility that
would be attributed to it would have to also be great in order to handle it properly. The more
the sheep, the more mess to clean. The shepherd also provides counsel.
The shepherd spends his lifetime tending and caring for the sheep. The shepherd, much
more than receiving the rewards that come with shepherding must grow in love, compassion
and desire towards the sheep to the intent that they’ll come into full maturity even as God
pleases. Love should be the driving force of every activity of the shepherd towards the sheep.
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The Lord as a Shepherd
The Lord is my shepherd; I shall not want.
It is one thing to accept the Lord as God and it is another to acknowledge Him as the shepherd
over your soul. Many people have a twisted perspective of God as just an ancient Spirit seated
on His Throne ready to strike sinners down. However, that isn't the account. Even for a man
who didn't have the dispensation of the Spirit in the measure we have now, had this revelation
of Jehovah as Jireh - He that will see to it. We can look at this as just not concerning mundane
needs but the prosperity of our soul in general. As if that wasn't enough, the second clause
communicates an interesting assertion. He shall not want. "Shall" in biblical literature
communicates command, determination or promise - determination usually when it is used in
the first person. Meaning that, the fact that the Lord is his shepherd he doesn't have the option
to lack anything. He is determined that lack can never be his portion.
The Lord is sufficient for the one who puts his trust in Him and to the one who trusts in the
Lord, every desire of his shall be met, provided it is consistent with the good will of the Father.
It was this mystery that The Good Shepherd wanted to communicate to His people in Matthew
6:33, that, seeking God for who He is guaranteed, all other things to be added on.
Notwithstanding, the fact that the psalm was written by a man, we can allude it to the experience
of Israel being shepherded by God, and how through the wilderness, they never lacked
anything. Despite their ingratitude and hardened hearts, the Lord stood to perform His Word
He gave to His servant Abraham years ago and fulfilled it in the eyes of His flock. We can
speak of the provision of manna, the provision of water from rocks, territorial conquest of
adversaries, even the very clothes and sandals they wore that never wore out but regenerated
with them to suit their present needs and above all, their safe transit into the land flowing with
milk and honey - Canaan. We can relate to all of these levels of demand in our lives and the
solution is God as our shepherd. Isaiah 40:11(He shall feed his flock like a shepherd: he shall
gather the lambs with his arm, and carry them in his bosom, and shall gently lead those that
are with young) further banks on this revelation to communicate God to His people in this
beautiful light.
This imagery popularly connotes riches and prosperity in affluent regions to the average mind.
That is good. Furthermore, you need to understand that your ‘green pastures’ is where the voice,
even the instruction of God is for you. Psalm 37:16(¹⁶A little that a righteous man hath is better
than the riches of many wicked.) and Proverbs 15:16-17(¹⁶Better is little with the fear of the
Lord than great treasure and trouble therewith.¹⁷Better is a dinner of herbs where love is, than
a stalled ox and hatred therewith.)will make you understand that affluence outside of God is
all but vain. Before anything, establish the fact that this was a man with experience in
shepherding himself so he was trying to communicate a reality he had run into while tending
to his flock. Don't misconstrue the verb being "made" to lie down as a domineering action. In
Hebrew, it just means the Lord invites, and calls us to dwell in lovely places. Scripture speaks
of pleasures that dwell at His right hand forevermore. Then again still waters, when you look
at its connotation in the Hebrew, speaks of a place of rest, quietness, ease or comfort. This
communicates the rest of God. We realize how Jesus speaks of this while He was on earth
speaking to His disciples in Matthew 11:28 (Come unto me, all ye that labour and are heavy
laden, and I will give you rest).
David speaking about how the Lord restores his soul portrays the imagery of a sheep-shepherd
parallel. The sheep is one of the animals that has the tendency to wander off the right path,
especially the young lambs. However, God is able to turn us back to the right path. Also, the
Hebrew speaks of a refreshing, a recompense of the soul of man even as He leads him by still
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waters. The second part speaks of God leading Him in the part of righteousness for His name’s
sake. Interestingly, path in the Hebrew is not a straight lane but translates as circle - a round
path. Sometimes God has to take us several times round the block in order for us to learn what
He’s trying to teach us, and other times we observe life cycling to bring closure and completion
to unresolved issues. The Hebrew says that God leads us in circles, or cycles of righteousness,
for His name’s sake. At first you might not appreciate the revelation of a certain path He’s
taking you but He won't stop leading you in that path. He is committed to our growth, and our
journey with Him, so that He gets the glory. He wants us to grow in righteousness as He
gradually conforms us to the likeness of His Son, from one degree of glory to the next, for His
name’s sake.
The Ambassadorial Perspective of a Shepherd
I will give you shepherds after my own heart, who will lead you with knowledge and
understanding (Jeremiah 3:15).
An ambassador refers to an official envoy (someone who is sent) or an authorized
representative. This means the Shepherd is not chosen or ‘self-acclaimed’ on his own accord.
A Shepherd is God-given and he does not act on his own accord. He wields a certain authority
given to him. He works on behalf of the Chief Shepherd (Jesus) who rewards according to the
work they did.
Obey them that have the rule over you, and submit yourselves: for they watch for your souls,
as they that must give account, that they may do it with joy, and not with grief: for that is
unprofitable for you. Hebrews 13:17 (KJV)
The shepherds serve as overseers of God’s sheep not lording over them that is why they must
be faithful in fulfilling their duty as a shepherd knowing that, they will give account of the work
done. The shepherd is accountable to the Lord for the sheep and will someday give an account
of all that the Lord committed to him to oversee. This is why the shepherd must know,
understand, and embrace the blueprint and standard of shepherding that Jesus would have them
practice.
Holding forth the word of life; that I may rejoice in the day of Christ, that I have not run in
vain, neither laboured in vain. (Philippians 2:16 (KJV))
²⁷For I have not shunned to declare unto you all the counsel of God. ²⁸Take heed therefore unto
yourselves, and to all the flock, over the which the Holy Ghost hath made you overseers, to
feed the church of God, which he hath purchased with his own blood. Acts 20:27-28 (KJV)
The verse above speaks of the purchasing with his own blood. As a shepherd, once you're not
being diligent and efficient with the work given you by the Chief Shepherd, you work against
and despise the finished work of Christ on the Cross and the same way there are rewards, there
are also implications for not labouring fervently and diligently.
And the Lord said, Who then is that faithful and wise steward, whom his lord shall make ruler
over his household, to give them their portion of meat in due season? [43] Blessed is that
servant, whom his lord when he cometh shall find so doing. [44] Of a truth I say unto you, that
he will make him ruler over all that he hath. [45] But and if that servant say in his heart, My
lord delayeth his coming; and shall begin to beat the menservants and maidens, and to eat and
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drink, and to be drunken; [46] the lord of that servant will come in a day when he looketh not
for him, and at an hour when he is not aware, and will cut him in sunder, and will appoint him
his portion with the unbelievers. [47] And that servant, which knew his lord's will, and
prepared not himself, neither did according to his will, shall be beaten with many stripes. [48]
But he that knew not, and did commit things worthy of stripes, shall be beaten with few stripes.
For unto whomsoever much is given, of him shall be much required: and to whom men have
committed much, of him they will ask the more. (Luke 12:42 – 48 KJV)
Remember the goal is to raise sons and to allow the disciples to ultimately look like Christ. In
your teachings, teach them that which the Lord commits to you to teach them, don't hold
anything because you'll give account of it. Be diligent in labouring, as unto the Lord knowing
that you'll give an account of every work done. You'll give reports of the souls that were
committed to you to build so be circumspect in your dealings in the area of Shepherding. Also,
note that he admonished them to also take heed unto themselves; in as much as you labour to
present the sheep blameless, ensure you exercise the same diligence in presenting yourself
blameless as well.
I therefore so run, not as uncertainly; so fight I, not as one that beateth the air: but I keep under
my body, and bring it into subjection: lest that by any means, when I have preached to others,
I myself should be a castaway. (1 Corinthians 9:26 - 27 KJV)
Apostle Paul writes that he brings his body under subjection that after presenting others
blameless, he himself will not be a castaway. Dear Shepherd, be diligent in presenting yourself
and the sheep blameless as you'll give account on every one of it.
²Feed the flock of God which is among you, taking the oversight thereof, not by constraint, but
willingly; not for filthy lucre, but of a ready mind; ³Neither as being lords over God's heritage,
but being examples to the flock.; 1 Peter 5:2-3 (KJV)
¹⁵So when they had dined, Jesus saith to Simon Peter, Simon, son of Jonas, lovest thou me more
than these? He saith unto him, Yea, Lord; thou knowest that I love thee. He saith unto him,
Feed my lambs.¹⁶He saith to him again the second time, Simon, son of Jonas, lovest thou me?
He saith unto him, Yea, Lord; thou knowest that I love thee. He saith unto him, Feed my
sheep.¹⁷He saith unto him the third time, Simon, son of Jonas, lovest thou me? Peter was
grieved because he said unto him the third time, Lovest thou me? And he said unto him, Lord,
thou knowest all things; thou knowest that I love thee. Jesus saith unto him, Feed my sheep.
John 21:15-17 (KJV)
Having this understanding, check your motive for Shepherding, ensure that it is not to satisfy
your mundane needs but willingly due to a love for the Chief Shepherd. Let it be a proof of
your love for the Chief Shepherd (John 21:15-17- So when they had dined, Jesus saith to Simon
Peter, Simon, son of Jonas, lovest thou me more than these? He saith unto him, Yea, Lord; thou
knowest that I love thee. He saith unto him, Feed my lambs.¹⁶He saith to him again the second
time, Simon, son of Jonas, lovest thou me? He saith unto him, Yea, Lord; thou knowest that I
love thee. He saith unto him, Feed my sheep.¹⁷He saith unto him the third time, Simon, son of
Jonas, lovest thou me? Peter was grieved because he said unto him the third time, Lovest thou
me? And he said unto him, Lord, thou knowest all things; thou knowest that I love thee. Jesus
saith unto him, Feed my sheep.). Also, as mentioned earlier, do not lord over the sheep the Lord
will commit to you but be an example for them. Let them see Christ in you enough to imitate
you as you imitate Christ.
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And say to Archippus, Take heed to the ministry which thou hast received in the Lord, that thou
fulfill it. Colossians 4:17 (KJV)
Dear Shepherd, take heed to this ministry which the Lord has committed you, that you fulfill
it. It will take a lot of patience, sacrifice, and love, but for the sake of the reward you'll have in
eternity, choose to despise the present suffering and labour in bringing up the sheep the Chief
Shepherd commits to you.
The motherhood dimension of Shepherding
A Shepherd is like a mother and as a mother, the shepherd is to point the sheep to Christ. Also,
the shepherd imparts his soul because the sheep are dear to him. This is more reason the
shepherd shares/gives his experiences, and becomes vulnerable to the sheep. It is not to get
anything from the sheep, but because they are dear to him. It gets to the point where the
shepherd's heart is knitted to the sheep. The sheep must be dear to you, as a discipler.
Fatherhood dimension of Shepherding
The Shepherd is a father to the sheep and as a father, he provides protection and counsel to the
sheep. He exhorts, comforts, and charges you. Apostle Paul rebuked his people until they were
formed. As a discipler, you must rebuke in love. The proof that you love the sheep is being able
to rebuke them. It is a height of expression of love. It is on account of this dimension that the
shepherd has Godly jealousy over his flock. When he sees things going astray, the jealousy will
cause him to move in a certain way. Jealousy, Godly jealousy is proof of love. Godly jealousy
works righteousness just like Godly anger does.
But we, brethren, being taken away from you for a short time (in presence, but not in heart),
endeavored the more abundantly and with great desire to see your face. (1 Thessalonians 2:17
(KJ21))
Therefore, my dearly beloved and longed for brethren, my joy and crown, so stand fast in the
Lord, my dearly beloved. Philippians 4:1 (KJ21)
since he longed after you all, and was sore troubled, because ye had heard that he was sick:
(Philippians 2:26)
Some shepherds have explicit relationships with their sheep and one major reason is that, they
aren't able to interpret their strong passions for the sheep and in not being able to interpret it,
they begin to develop wrong emotions for them. Jesus Christ, the apostle of our profession and
chief shepherd, was very vulnerable. He was so vulnerable that Judas could betray him.
The Responsibility of the Shepherd Toward His Personal Development
In as much as the shepherd invests his lifetime in nurturing the sheep, he must also take time
to build himself in stature. Since every shepherd is sent of the Chief Shepherd, Jesus, he must
spend ample time sitting at the feet of Jesus and operate from that disposition. The Chief
Shepherd is the ultimate source of strength and grace that the shepherd must latch onto shepherd
effectively and efficaciously. His ministry must be unto God first. Constantly, he must examine
and evaluate his life by the parameters of the Word of God. The Shepherd should never lose
touch and fellowship with God. Again, due to the soulish connection of the sheep and Shepherd,
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the shepherd must keep his streams pure by studying the Word, prayer and sticking to his
consecration. (Mark 1:35- And in the morning, rising up a great while before day, he went out,
and departed into a solitary place, and there prayed, John 17:19- ⁹And for their sakes I sanctify
myself, that they also might be sanctified through the truth.)
Here are some of the recommended practices to keep as you develop yourself personally;
Have a consistent word study life; Ensure to be studying the word of God for yourself
and not entirely so you can teach the sheep. In having a consistent word study life, you can set
structures or days to be having a word study. This is aside the consistent daily quiet time
schedule.
Have a consistent prayer life: Just as the Lord Jesus in Mark 1:35, (Mark 1:35- And in
the morning, rising up a great while before day, he went out, and departed into a solitary place,
and there prayed), have a personal time for yourself to commune with the Lord. You don’t
need to have a long prayer time as say 4 hours. If you can be consistent with 1 hour
daily(30mins morning, 30mins evening), it would be great. Know that “In consistency lies the
power”
Don’t take breaks in all of these; normally, when people go on a prayer or word streak,
they feel the streak can fill in for many days so abandon these spiritual and vital activities.
Doing these slowly puts out your fire and consistency.
In all these, know and cherish the person of the Holy Spirit as he will be your guide to
teach you all truth, give you strategies, counsel et al.
And I will pray the Father, and he shall give you another Comforter, that he may abide with
you for ever; John 14:16 KJV
Howbeit when he, the Spirit of truth, is come, he will guide you into all truth: for he shall not
speak of himself; but whatsoever he shall hear, that shall he speak: and he will shew you things
to come. He shall glorify me: for he shall receive of mine, and shall shew it unto you. All things
that the Father hath are mine: therefore said I, that he shall take of mine, and shall shew it
unto you. A little while, and ye shall not see me: and again, a little while, and ye shall see me,
because I go to the Father. John 16:13-16 KJV
Duties of The Sheep Towards the Shepherd.
•
The sheep must obey their shepherd. The sheep should understand and come to that
place of realization that the shepherd acts not on his own accord, but is sent of God. They must
be humble. One thing that can birth forth this obedience is how that the sheep recognizes the
authority upon the shepherd and accord him that due honor. There, they can adequately obey
their shepherd. Moreover, they should recognize that every action the shepherd carries out is
to their benefit.
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•
The sheep must also demonstrate their love for the shepherd by obedience and by
making prayers for their shepherd, considering some predicaments he must go through or
attacks he goes through on their behalf.
•
The sheep should be able to open up to their shepherd about very significant decisions
and occurrences in their life. By virtue of that, they can seek wise and godly counsel form their
shepherd.
•
A true and faithful sheep is one who is able to adequately express certain traits of his
shepherd. This will be sufficient proof and evidence that the sheep has stayed with the shepherd
and produced fruits or did not allow the shepherd’s investments to go waste… (Acts 4:13- Now
when they saw the boldness of Peter and John, and perceived that they were unlearned and
ignorant men, they marvelled; and they took knowledge of them, that they had been with Jesus)
NB: A shepherd is responsible for the holistic build-up of the sheep. He is not only responsible
for their spiritual/religious maturity, but academic/professional, socioeconomic,
mental/intellectual/psychological and financial facets. However, all this build up must take its
roots in the Word of God. (2 Timothy 3:16).
All scripture is given by inspiration of God, and is profitable for doctrine, for reproof, for
correction, for instruction in righteousness: 2 Timothy 3:16 (KJV)
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Character of a Discipler
▪
Love;
Discipling the flock the chief discipler, Jesus Christ, commits to you as a discipler is a proof of
your love for Him. We see a dialogue between Peter and the Lord Jesus, where He questioned
his love for Him, Jesus and admonished Peter that, to prove his love for Jesus, he has to feed
his sheep.
So when they had dined, Jesus saith to Simon Peter, Simon, son of Jonas, lovest thou me more
than these? He saith unto him, Yea, Lord; thou knowest that I love thee. He saith unto him,
Feed my lambs.¹⁶He saith to him again the second time, Simon, son of Jonas, lovest thou me?
He saith unto him, Yea, Lord; thou knowest that I love thee. He saith unto him, Feed my sheep.
(John 21:15-16)
Charity suffereth long, and is kind; charity envieth not; charity vaunteth not itself, is not puffed
up, ⁵Doth not behave itself unseemly, seeketh not her own, is not easily provoked, thinketh no
evil; ⁶Rejoiceth not in iniquity, but rejoiceth in the truth;⁷Beareth all things, believeth all things,
hopeth all things, endureth all things.⁸Charity never faileth: but whether there be prophecies,
they shall fail; whether there be tongues, they shall cease; whether there be knowledge, it shall
vanish away (1 Corinthians 13:4-8)
▪
Teachable; A shepherd is a person who is ever ready to learn, not to teach the sheep but also
for his growth and approval from God (2 Timothy 2:15- ¹⁵Study to shew thyself approved unto
God, a workman that needeth not to be ashamed, rightly dividing the word of truth)
▪
Submission, Humility and Obedience; The shepherd must submit to the Chief Shepherd and
obey God’s Word concerning shepherding. My sheep hear my voice, and I know them, and they
follow me: (John 10:27 (KJV))
▪
Availability; The Shepherd must always be available for the sheep, especially in times of need.
▪
Patience and Persistence; The Shepherd must be patient enough with the flock and give them
a listening ear to embrace their shortcomings. On account of that, he should be able to offer
wise counsel to the sheep by the Spirit of God. He must be a storehouse of solutions. He must
not be easily tempered. The shepherd must never give up on the sheep. One great desire of
every shepherd is to see the sheep moving in a certain progression in Christ and maturing.
▪
Trustworthiness and Confidentiality; Most often than not, the sheep is vulnerable to the
shepherd because they recognize and see the shepherd in a certain great light. The shepherd
should be trusted by his flock. It will be very unacceptable and painful for the shepherd to
spread sensitive information about the sheep to the outside world.
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▪
Impartiality; The shepherd must not be biased towards any of his sheep based on certain
characteristics. For example, a sheep being more affluent than other sheep should not cause the
shepherd to gravitate towards the former. He must be fair and just.
▪
Honesty and Vulnerability; The shepherd should be very transparent and open with the sheep.
He should be able to share significant life experiences with the sheep so the sheep can learn
from them and mature in a better fashion. However, this should be done in wisdom. Wisdom
is profitable to direct.
▪
Compassion; Compassion is to have sympathy towards one’s suffering. Compassion proceeds
from love. This compassion is a character of a good Shepherd. We can compare it with the
Lord Jesus in Matthew 9:36 (KJ21) ³⁶but when He saw the multitudes, He was moved with
compassion for them, because they were faint and were scattered abroad, as sheep having no
shepherd.
▪
Observance and Vigilance; Even through prayer, the shepherd should be on his guard and
watch over the sheep. He should be able to observe the progress and growth of the sheep in
order to know how to feed the sheep to their benefit. (1 Peter 5:8, Be sober, be vigilant; because
your adversary the devil, as a roaring lion, walketh about, seeking whom he may devour:)
▪
Godly familiarity; The Shepherd should be able to invest time in building a good relationship
with the flock by frequent interaction. Every good relationship is established on deliberation
and intentionality. The relationship with the sheep should be such that they can identify the
footsteps, voice, smell and aura of the Shepherd. (John 10:14, I am the good shepherd, and
know my sheep, and am known of mine.) There is a knitting, an intertwining, and an
intermingling of the heart of the shepherd with that of his flock. So, whatever affects the sheep
affects the Shepherd and vice versa. Likewise, the shepherd should be able to identify all these
elements of the sheep, such that, if the sheep is lost among a multitude, he can be identified.
▪
Sacrifice; The shepherd must be able to sacrifice his time and other resources for the betterment
of the flock. This must stem out of a place of love for God and for others (John 10:15, As the
Father knoweth me, even so know I the Father: and I lay down my life for the sheep.)
▪
An Embodiment of Unity; The shepherd must not be a disperser of the sheep but rather a uniting
factor of the flock. (And other sheep I have, which are not of this fold: them also I must bring,
and they shall hear my voice; and there shall be one fold, and one shepherd, John 10:16)
▪
Faithfulness; The shepherd can be likened to a steward who has been entrusted with souls. In
actual sense, the sheep are God’s sheep He has committed to shepherds to take care of. A
shepherd’s level of faithfulness is predicated on how well he cared for the sheep in his trust.
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▪
Sanctification; In as much as there is a sanctification required of us by the Lord, the shepherd
needs to sanctify himself so that, the sheep are also sanctified. (And for their sakes I sanctify
myself, that they also might be sanctified through the truth- John 17:19)
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Relating with disciples as a discipler.
Relating with disciples as a discipler comes with many discoveries. Through the course of
discipleship, having to relate with people of diverse backgrounds, understand that in order to
adequately bring your disciples to the place of maturity/ transformation you seek to attain, your
discipleship needs to go beyond the stage where only information and spiritual knowledge is
being disseminated between you and them. As a discipler, it is worthwhile for you to know and
come to a place where understanding and trust is developed between you and your disciples.
In the place of trust and understanding, impact is inevitable. In such, it is easier to breakdown
strongholds in the mind and old thought patterns in order to rebuild the lives of the disciples
even after the pattern of Christ
Following after the pattern of Christ in his discipleship (in scripture) we see Christ fostering
family life culture with his disciples;
¹⁸And he said, Go into the city to such a man, and say unto him, The Master saith, My time is
at hand; I will keep the passover at thy house with my disciples. ¹⁹And the disciples did as Jesus
had appointed them; and they made ready the passover. ²⁶And as they were eating, Jesus took
bread, and blessed it, and brake it, and gave it to the disciples, and said, Take, eat; this is my
body. ²⁷And he took the cup, and gave thanks, and gave it to them, saying, Drink ye all of it;
²⁸For this is my blood of the new testament, which is shed for many for the remission of sins.
²⁹But I say unto you, I will not drink henceforth of this fruit of the vine, until that day when I
drink it new with you in my Father's kingdom (Matthew 26:18-19; 26-29 (KJV))
▪
He broke bread with His disciples (Matthew 26:18-19: 26-29): At his final Passover feast, Jesus
selected a place to celebrate it with His disciples, he broke bread and initiated the new covenant
with His disciples in his last supper.
⁹As soon then as they were come to land, they saw a fire of coals there, and fish laid thereon,
and bread.¹⁰Jesus saith unto them, Bring of the fish which ye have now caught.¹¹Simon Peter
went up, and drew the net to land full of great fishes, an hundred and fifty and three: and for
all there were so many, yet was not the net broken.¹²Jesus saith unto them, Come and dine. And
none of the disciples durst ask him, Who art thou? knowing that it was the Lord. John 21:9-12
(KJV)
▪
He had breakfast with His disciples (John 21:9-12): Jesus displayed an intimate level of
relationship with his disciples to the point where He made breakfast and invited his disciples
to come over and eat with Him.
And it came to pass, that, as he was praying in a certain place, when he ceased, one of his
disciples said unto him, Lord, teach us to pray, as John also taught his disciples. Luke 11:1
(KJV)
▪
He taught and prayed with His disciples (Luke 11:1; ): Jesus being a shepherd over his
flock(disciples) ensured that His flock was not ignorant pertaining to what the father would
have them know. So he took time to expound on the word for His disciples and equipped them
with what they needed for the journey that was ahead of them.
And the third day there was a marriage in Cana of Galilee; and the mother of Jesus was
there:²And both Jesus was called, and his disciples, to the marriage. John 2:1-2 (KJV)
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▪
He went for occasions with his Disciples (John 2:1-2): Jesus and His disciples were invited and
attended the wedding in Cana of Galilee.
¹⁴And when Jesus was come into Peter's house, he saw his wife's mother laid, and sick of a
fever. ¹⁵And he touched her hand, and the fever left her: and she arose, and ministered unto
them. Matthew 8:14-15 (KJV)
³⁸Now it came to pass, as they went, that he entered into a certain village: and a certain woman
named Martha received him into her house. ³⁹And she had a sister called Mary, which also sat
at Jesus' feet, and heard his word. ⁴⁰But Martha was cumbered about much serving, and came
to him, and said, Lord, dost thou not care that my sister hath left me to serve alone? bid her
therefore that she help me. ⁴¹And Jesus answered and said unto her, Martha, Martha, thou art
careful and troubled about many things: ⁴²But one thing is needful: and Mary hath chosen that
good part, which shall not be taken away from her. Luke 10:38-42 (KJV)
▪
He visited His disciples: This is a very important gesture that is mostly appreciated by a lot of
disciples. In Matthew 8:14-15, we see how that Jesus visited Peter's home and not only visited
him but healed his mother-in-law who was sick of fever. This surely brought great joy and
delight to the follower of Christ drawing him closer to Jesus. Then again, in Luke 10:38-42,
we witness His encounter with Mary and Martha in their home as He shared the word with
them. These are some of deeds that might seem as little but greatly moved these people and so
you realize how these people became so tied to Jesus till He left the earth and even afterwards
¹³Then were there brought unto him little children, that he should put his hands on them, and
pray: and the disciples rebuked them. ¹⁴But Jesus said, Suffer little children, and forbid them
not, to come unto me: for of such is the kingdom of heaven. ¹⁵And he laid his hands on them,
and departed thence. Matthew 19:13-15 (KJV)
▪
He rebuked and corrected His disciples when they did what was not right (Matthew 19:13-15):
Jesus did not hesitate to correct His disciples when they were found doing things contrary to
His will and even the will of the Father. In His corrections and rebukes some took offense but
it did not prevent Him from meting out the truth to His Disciples to keep them on the right path.
In these actions, Christ established between Himself and His disciples; unity, love and
fellowship. Under normal circumstances, typical of human nature, humans would not give in
to someone whom they’ve not developed a level of trust in. As a discipler, exposing yourself
(your lifestyle), ideologies and thought patterns to disciples enables them to develop a certain
level of confidence in you; based on what they have come to know of you in their bid to know
and follow Christ. They must know and understand to an extent who they’re following.
Note that not all disciples might walk in the adequate level of honor for their leader after some
level of intimacy and proximity. Hence you need to get to know your disciples to know how to
effectively relate with them. In doing so, you observe certain pointers that suggest inappropriate
behavior and amend them in love. Get to know your disciples over a period of time through
open communication till they come to a point where they are able to freely express their
thoughts, ideas, lifestyle, ask questions and share concerns without the fear of being seen in a
different light. Through this experience you know where to draw the line so as to eliminate any
iota of unhealthy familiarity
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There are certain traits that one must apprehend and exhibit when relating with others
(disciples). As scripture teaches us that love never fails, and as seen in the preceding discourse,
the traits Christ displayed in His relation with His disciples were paradigms of love. As
disciplers, we need to grow/walk into these traits for discipleship to be successful
Here are a few carefully picked ones;
• Patience: In dealing with disciples as a discipler, patience is one key factor to embrace. Having
to interact with people of diverse backgrounds and upbringings it would take time and attention to
get to know the disciples very well in order to know how to effectively handle or build them on
individual bases. If there's anything that you must learn from shepherding, it is that; repetition is
the mother of all learning. Don't say or do something once and expect your people to catch it and
begin to run with it. Some people are slow learners, in fact, all of them might not even get it on
first count. One of the laments we usually have in structures is the issue of first-timers bringing
testimonies from the meetings organized while it is seldom among people in the main family.
Repeat teaching them over and over and to the extent of seeing the narrative changing. Similar
thing applies to giving and investing into the house. There is the need to be really patient.
Painstakingly teach your people even if they seem to be dull of understanding.
• Putting them first: Relating with disciples comes with the sacrifice of your time and attention.
To attain the result you desire, quality time and investments must be made in the lives of the
disciples. Not being self-seeking comes at a cost where sometimes you have to exchange what you
would desire in a moment for that of the disciple. Call them. Admonish and encourage them. There
are times where a shepherd spends over an hour on the phone just giving a listening ear to the
plight of his disciple. At times, she might not even say anything but just to cry and she'll feel better.
Some may go through a crisis at an ungodly hour and you will be the first person they run to. You
have to learn to be that dependable tree they can lean on for strength.
• Honor All Men: Regardless of rank, position in ministry and in the long run - life as a whole
- one key thing that would cause a relationship to suffice is honor. Never demean any individual.
Many a time, we honor who we choose to honor and claim we are people of understanding but that
shouldn't be the case. Apostle Peter emphatically admonishes us to honor all men [Honour all men.
Love the brotherhood. Fear God. Honour the king-1 Pet 2:17]. That means, do not see those placed
under as "subordinates" per se. But see them as the mighty people the Lord has fashioned them to
be and humble yourself and be privileged to be the one the Lord is using to drive them on that path.
Don't even undermine the words at their lips. Even when you're casually engaging them, be able
to discern wisdom at their lips.
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The Shepherd as an example
The Shepherd is supposed to serve as an example for the sheep to follow. Jesus many times
said He left us an example to follow. He as the great and Chief Shepherd, set examples during
his life on earth for his followers to follow.
For even hereunto were ye called: because Christ also suffered for us, leaving us an example,
that ye should follow his steps 1 Peter 2:21 (KJV)
For I have given you an example, that ye should do as I have done to you. John 13:15 (KJV)
As a shepherd, know that your sheep learn more from what they see you do than what you say.
How you relate with people, how you speak, everything you do, the sheep tend to learn your
ways. Just as Jesus admonishes his disciples to do as he has done to them, the sheep will do as
you do to them. The way you express the love of God to them, the way you speak, as little as
the way you text (the type of emojis you choose)
The former treatise I made, O Theophilus, concerning all that Jesus began both to do and to
teach, (Acts 1:1)
The sheep must be able to conform to the image of Christ by looking at what you do and how
you live your life. A discipler must come to a point where he can boldly say as Apostle Paul,
“Be ye imitators of me, even as I also am of Christ. (1Cor 11:1)”. This is a more reason why
the discipler must always prioritize His relationship with God because the more of Him you
become, the more you are able to set the right examples for the sheep to imitate. Many disciples
end up dealing with bitterness, anger, malice, strife as a result of how they saw their discipler
live. Ensure that, as a discipler, you make your disciplers draw from a pure stream. For their
sake sanctify yourself, that they too may be sanctified (John 17:19).
And walk in love, as Christ also hath loved us, and hath given himself for us an offering and a
sacrifice to God for a sweet-smelling savour. Ephesians 5:2 (KJV)
Who comforteth us in all our tribulation, that we may be able to comfort them which are in any
trouble, by the comfort wherewith we ourselves are comforted of God. 2 Corinthians 1:4 (KJV)
So then death worketh in us, but life in you. 2 Corinthians 4:12 (KJV)
The proof of your love for the sheep is the degree to which you can lay down your life for them.
How much can you allow death work in you so that life will work in the lives of the sheep?
There are certain ‘tribulations, challenges’ the Lord may allow the discipler go through with
the intention that, the discipler will comfort the sheep with the same comfort received of the
Lord.
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Challenges of Discipleship
•
Commitment and diligence - “I am tired; besides, I have other equally important things
to do"
One of the major challenges a discipler faces in the course of discipleship, talk less of the
disciples, is the issue of commitment. As one placed over a group of people to disciple them,
you must be committed [dedicated] to the task given you. You must handle this task as though
you'd handle a personal business affair. A lot of times, the discipler hits on the point of
faithfulness to his sheep whereas he himself shows signs of laxity - which shouldn't be the case.
Others try to justify this attitude because at a certain point in the course of discipleship, they
were not seeing the results of their efforts in the people. It's true - it can be heart-wrenching at
times. However, there needs to be the understanding that it's a matter of time and consistent
efforts. Even if the expected results are not being shown, keep being committed and if possible
double efforts and implement other strategies by the Spirit of God. In the case where the
discipler might be engaged in other enterprises amidst discipleship, never let the sheep feel less
important. Always strive to prioritize your meeting days amidst your busy schedule. (2
Timothy 2:15- Study to shew thyself approved unto God, a workman that needeth not to be
ashamed, rightly dividing the word of truth) The actual translation of the word study as used
in the verse, is to give due diligence, every pain staking decision you have to take, do so and
note that the approval is first unto God
• Equal love - “Sir you always attend to your favorites - you don't like me"
This is another big issue shepherds face with respect to discipleship - exhibiting the same
amount of love towards all. Usually, we say we love them all dearly and equally in our hearts
but oft, our actions tend to communicate a little bit of imbalance on the backend. I'm talking
about little things such as using names for example, during teaching, hugging and handshakes,
posting on birthdays, visits, phone calls, and even as little as laughing at the jokes of the sheep.
Disciples are very observant, especially if they see you in the light of a role model. They begin
to take note of everything you do. They begin to read meaning into certain things you might
deem trivial. One frustrating thing is that the affected parties will never voice it out but will
harbor that bag of “black sheep” within them. This is commonly seen when you have a lot of
ladies, “quiet" people who never talk in meetings, and surprisingly “the truants" in your circle
so you must be circumspect about how you go about them. It is advisable to admonish them to
get to know you and speak to you often as that will enable you to know them well, avoid using
a particular person’s name often, you can randomly mention names, especially in online
meetings. Also, avoid posting a particular sheep often, get to know the others as well as a
shepherd.
• Unintentional Stringing Along - “O Dear Shepherd, don't lead him/her on”
This has to be, if not the most, greatest challenge of being a discipler. In the face of being open
and friendly to the sheep, we sometimes might act in harmless ways and crack certain jokes
just to build that relationship. However, some tend to read meaning into this amicable
behaviour and might think you're giving them clues of interest in them. A lot of times the reason
these disciples tend to read wrong meaning into the relationship between the discipler is due to
the background they’re from, the wrong training they have gone through hence the need to be
taught rightly. As a shepherd, you must also know how to interact- when to say what and how
to say it in order to avert such situations. Be sure to clearly define the relationship with the
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sheep at all times during discipling and do not act in ways that may “lead them on.” For
example, if you are fond of calling your sheep “baby, my girl, my love” and you don’t clearly
define the relationship, it may be interpreted wrongly. It is advisable to avoid calling them by
such names.
• Resilience - "I must finish this course with my best"
This is one of the challenging aspects of being a discipler. Once you take up this task, there
comes a time when you are coaxed into digging up excuses. Once you start this habit, it never
stops and it keeps on getting worse even with pettier issues. Never be the good shepherd only
at your comfort. If that is always the case, in the evil day when you're needed, you'll
desert your sheep and you'll surely account for that. Apostle Paul, in Colossians 2:17 (And say
to Archippus, Take heed to the ministry which thou hast received in the Lord, that thou fulfil
it.), gives a very profound piece of admonishment to one of his brethren, Archippus. He tells
him to see to it that he fulfills the ministry which has been given to him in the Lord. Raising
people is a committal given by the Lord and as such, this instruction applies to all who are in
that field. Shepherding, even the work of the kingdom in general, should be of priority to you
and must be held in high esteem. It gets difficult and tiring many times, some of your sheep
will betray you, and some may forget your labour in their life but remember who called you
and committed such a privilege to you and fulfill it, looking to the reward that will be given in
eternity. Men may forget, as is the nature of the fallen man but know that eternity will not forget
so press on and make sure you fulfil the ministry given to you. [Luke 9:62, Col 1:29, Col 2:14,
Matthew 6:33]
And Jesus said unto him, No man, having put his hand to the plough, and looking back, is fit
for the kingdom of God. Luke 9:62 (KJV)
Whereunto I also labour, striving according to his working, which worketh in me mightily.
Colossians 1:29 (KJV)
Blotting out the handwriting of ordinances that was against us, which was contrary to us, and
took it out of the way, nailing it to his cross; Colossians 2:14 (KJV)
But seek ye first the kingdom of God, and his righteousness; and all these things shall be added
unto you. Matthew 6:33 (KJV)
• Communication and Trust
Building trust is essential in a discipleship relationship. Both the discipler and the disciple need
to trust and respect each other. Challenges may arise if there are trust issues or if the trust is
broken. Effective communication between the discipler and the disciple is crucial for a
successful discipleship relationship. Challenges may arise if there is a lack of clarity or
understanding in communication. As there is trust between the shepherd and the disciples, it
allows the disciples to easily open up to you. For example, in The Martyrs community, we
realized a lot of the disciples came in struggling with addictions, bitterness et al and even
though we were teaching them it was difficult to move on until they built a level of trust in the
disciplers and opened up about these issues, and it was dealt with on a personal level. Trust and
communication help deal with issues of disciples on a personal level.
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• The "bro" mindset
In case you are placed over someone you are close to. Someone you've known for a long time
who calls you bro, sis, irreverently by your first name or even an embarrassing nickname back
in school. Such a situation may seem to be very dicey due to relationship that exists between
both of you especially when you've both embarked on endeavors that you'd not be proud of in
the moment. For instance, one of us shepherds had one of his friends under him during
discipleship and was giving him quite a hard time. But after exhibiting a few traits of maturity
in admonishing and instructing him, he understood that he wasn't in for one of their amicable
adventures. There's also a part you must play in understanding you're also not in that context
anymore. For instance, you don't speak pidgin in certain settings, engage some slangs you used
to use and you don't talk about certain inappropriate things anymore. However, you don't lord
over him or her. You can still be a friend to that brother in the right context. There is no need
to frown and be less attentive to him. Be deliberate not to give room for ungodly familiarity.
You should be able to define the relationship as a shepherd and his discipler. Jesus in his
relation with his family made sure to be strict about clearly defining his relation and gave no
room for ungodly familiarity.
While he yet talked to the people, behold, his mother and his brethren stood without, desiring
to speak with him. Then one said unto him, Behold, thy mother and thy brethren stand without,
desiring to speak with thee. But he answered and said unto him that told him, Who is my
mother? and who are my brethren? And he stretched forth his hand toward his disciples, and
said, Behold my mother and my brethren! For whosoever shall do the will of my Father which
is in heaven, the same is my brother, and sister, and mother. Matthew 12:46-50 KJV
• Accountability
Jesus was a strong advocate of accountability and scripture in general strongly advocates
accountability. We see in the patterns of scripture that men are held accountable for all that
proceeds from them whether word or deed. For we must all appear before the judgment seat
of Christ; that every one may receive the things done in his body, according to that he hath
done, whether it be good or bad. 2 Corinthians 5:10 KJV. Being accountable to a leader in the
faith or mentor, as well as to oneself, can be challenging as it requires honesty, self-reflection,
and a willingness to address shortcomings.
For Moses had said, Consecrate yourselves to day to the LORD, even every man upon his son,
and upon his brother; that he may bestow upon you a blessing this day. And it came to pass on
the morrow, that Moses said unto the people, Ye have sinned a great sin: and now I will go up
unto the LORD; peradventure I shall make an atonement for your sin. And Moses returned
unto the LORD, and said, Oh, this people have sinned a great sin, and have made them gods
of gold. Yet now, if thou wilt forgive their sin; and if not, blot me, I pray thee, out of thy book
which thou hast written. Exodus 32:29-32 KJV
Moses was the shepherd of Israel and they were held accountable even as he, Moses, was also
held accountable for Israel. For example, when he descended the mount to meet that the people
had sinned, he held Aaron accountable, he also held the people accountable but when he
ascended the mountain to plead for the people, God held him accountable for them.
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• Sacrifice
Discipleship often requires sacrificing personal desires and comforts in order to fully devote
oneself to the teachings and mission. Juggling the responsibilities of discipleship with other
aspects of life, such as work, family, and personal commitments, can be a challenge that
requires careful time management and prioritization.
But I will rejoice even if my life is poured out like a liquid offering to God over your sacrificial
and surrendered lives of faith. Philippians 2:17 TPT
But I would ye should understand, brethren, that the things which happened unto me have fallen
out rather unto the furtherance of the gospel; So that my bonds in Christ are manifest in all the
palace, and in all other places; And many of the brethren in the Lord, waxing confident by my
bonds, are much more bold to speak the word without fear. Philippians 1:12-14 KJV
Are they ministers of Christ? (I speak as a fool) I am more; in labours more abundant, in stripes
above measure, in prisons more frequent, in deaths oft. Of the Jews five times received I forty
stripes save one. Thrice was I beaten with rods, once was I stoned, thrice I suffered shipwreck,
a night and a day I have been in the deep; In journeyings often, in perils of waters, in perils of
robbers, in perils by mine own countrymen, in perils by the heathen, in perils in the city, in
perils in the wilderness, in perils in the sea, in perils among false brethren; In weariness and
painfulness, in watchings often, in hunger and thirst, in fastings often, in cold and nakedness.
Beside those things that are without, that which cometh upon me daily, the care of all the
churches. Who is weak, and I am not weak? who is offended, and I burn not? If I must needs
glory, I will glory of the things which concern mine infirmities. The God and Father of our
Lord Jesus Christ, which is blessed for evermore, knoweth that I lie not. In Damascus the
governor under Aretas the king kept the city of the Damascenes with a garrison, desirous to
apprehend me: And through a window in a basket was I let down by the wall, and escaped his
hands. 2 Corinthians 11:23-33 KJV
Apostle Paul makes it clear that his life is poured out like a liquid offering to God over their
lives in order for the disciples to stand firm in Christ. He further expounds that the things that
happened to him led to the advancement of the gospel. Apostle Paul further speaks of the things
he had to go through just to ensure that the saints, his disciples stand perfect in Christ. Many
times, he was beaten, stoned, suffered shipwreck, all these according to 2 Corinthians 11:2333 were to the end that the saints stand perfect in Christ. Through his sufferings, many have
had boldness to speak without fear and also be fervent in their walk in the faith. These are what
we term “The Woes of Apostleship” in The Martyrs Apostolic community. Many of the
members of The Martyrs Apostolic community have spoken to the Set-man of the community
and acknowledged that the reason why they are motivated and encouraged to press on and be
more committed to the things of God and even the commission is the sacrifice they have seen
him make in building them. There have also been times in our discipleship experience where,
the disciplers had to spend nights and a lot of time working on manuals to be given to the sheep,
staying awake through the night marking assignments and exams given to the sheep, and even
praying for the sheep- mentioning each person’s name in prayer.
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Building the Skill of Teaching
Be not many of you teachers, my brethren, knowing that we shall receive heavier judgment.
James 3:1 ASV
James 3 extensively warns that not many of us should be teachers and states why. It is important
to know that the assertion in James is skewed to the office of the teacher. However, you can't
disciple people without teaching them. Therefore, it is highly incumbent that you build the skill
of teaching in the right manner. To teach means to instruct someone on how to do something
and to impart knowledge. You need to know instructions from person to person will differ. The
following are some recommended ways to go about teaching, even training disciples.
- Learning Patience
Even in our normal classroom setting, you realize that some are fast learners while others are
slow. Some are also dull of understanding. No matter the class the disciple may find him or
herself one key thing you must have as a teacher is patience. Be willing to go over as many
times as possible for that one student. Some may require much more attention than the other
and you must be willing to do that. The process of discipleship should be seen as a trial to both
the shepherd and the sheep- a trying of faith. James 1:2-4(My brethren, count it all joy when ye
fall into divers temptations; Knowing this, that the trying of your faith worketh patience. But
let patience have her perfect work, that ye may be perfect and entire, wanting nothing.)
elaborates that trials causes our patience to be built and as we go through the process of
discipleship, patience will be worked in us until it has had its perfect work. Through that, we
stand without contradictions as teachers. Another thing to know is that; Repetition is the mother
of all learning. Apostle Paul says in 2 Peter 1:12, Wherefore I will not be negligent to put you
always in remembrance of these things, though ye know them, and be established in the present
truth. Don't necessarily expect to see manifestation upon first hearing. You will need to
constantly repeat that particular counsel for them to be established in it.
- Break it down, don’t assume they understand
As a good teacher always make sure that every single person follows what you are trying to
convey. A grave mistake that many teachers make is that, they don't ascertain the level of
understanding of the people and put across certain concepts that they might not even have the
foundations to hold. As seen by The Martyrs Apostolic community, as we conduct weekly test
and monthly exams, we noticed that not all of them cross the half of the mark which is a
testament that not everyone understands. Through this, we as a community, have learnt to send
the teaching to the disciples to listen over again and as the re-take these same tests, we see
improvements.
- Make use of practical examples within the context of the people.
Based on where you find yourself, find the right examples to make them understand. Scripture
says by the physical we understand the spiritual.
Then Jesus said, "God's kingdom is like a man who plants seed in the ground. The seed begins
to grow. It grows night and day. It doesn't matter whether the man is sleeping or awake, the
seed still grows. He doesn't know how it happens. Without any help the ground produces grain.
First the plant grows, then the head, and then all the grain in the head. When the grain is ready,
the man cuts it. This is the harvest time." Then Jesus said, "What can I use to show you what
God's kingdom is like? What story can I use to explain it? God's kingdom is like a mustard
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seed, which is smaller than any other seed on earth that you can plant. But when you plant it,
it grows and becomes the largest of all the plants in your garden. It has branches that are very
big. The wild birds can come and make nests there and be protected from the sun." Jesus used
many stories like these to teach the people. He taught them all they could understand. He always
used stories to teach them. But when he was alone with his followers, Jesus explained everything
to them. Mark 4:26-34 ERV
From the scripture above, we find Jesus trying to find a story or a way to explain what the
kingdom is like to the disciples. It is a skill of teaching, studies show that people do not easily
forget teaching with examples they can relate with.
- Always listen to the views of others and allow their many questions.
Wisdom is never in one man. Allow yourself to listen to others as well. Pick up key things,
ponder over them, and add them to your library. Allow questions as well. This is a generation
that likes to test and question matters. Allow questions. Scripture in its infallibility will defend
itself through your lips. There are a lot of things we, as an apostolic community have come to
appreciate; through discipleship, you will come across people with different thought patterns
and way of life. By allowing them voice their opinions, we are able to know them, appreciate
them help them more. As you disciple them, teach them, by the standards of scripture, to unlearn
their old ways, re-learn and learn (prove all things; hold fast that which is good; 1 Thessalonians
5:21 ASV)
- Give assignments
Give research works to try their hands on. Teaching should never be theory only but let them
handle and look upon those things to appreciate them enough. In The Martyrs apostolic
community for example, we mostly give assignments, sometimes take online exams and we
realized some of the disciples do not cross even half of the mark, which is a proof that they
don’t fully understand the topic taught. Make sure to give assignments- not only theoretical but
practical assignments and be sure to take reports (Especially the practical assignments).
After these things the Lord appointed other seventy also, and sent them two and two before his
face into every city and place, whither he himself would come.
Luke 10:1 KJV
And the seventy returned again with joy, saying, Lord, even the devils are subject unto us
through thy name. Luke 10:17 KJV
From the verses above, we find Jesus sending his disciples after giving them power to cast out
devils et al and taking reports on what happened as they went. Assignments are what will keep
the disciples doing what you teach them.
- Work on your oratory skills and presentation skills
Take courses, if need be, on oratory skills. Improve your vocabulary, pronunciations,
intonations and even stress of words. You'll come across a lot of highly literate and your oratory
skills and knowledge base will either attract or repel them. Find the right register for each field.
In your presentation as well look at chronemics - time. Some cannot concentrate for too long.
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In presenting, make sure it is well structured. Start with a good introduction – to be able to
appreciate the kind of people you are about to teach, ask them what they think, ask them a
question that'll make them think. For instance, if you want to talk about assurance of salvation,
then you ask, "Are you sure you are saved?" Not to get them worried but set them on edge for
what you are about to say - build your points then you land beautifully. Also, note that teachings
are not like "power preachings". Need not be that you raise your voice and be shouting. If
possible, be calm and dissect the word to them.
And a certain Jew named Apollos, born at Alexandria, an eloquent man, and mighty in the
scriptures, came to Ephesus. Acts 18:24 KJV
Eloquent from the Greek translation is logios which means fluent, that is, an orator. It was a
skill that Apollos had.
- Don't speak on things you have no understanding on.
It's very important to note. Someone asks you a question on something you've never heard of
or you have very little knowledge about, go and study and come and answer or point the person
to an "expert" to be answered. It doesn't make you less knowledgeable - especially when it
comes to the matters of the spirituals. Even in our usual classrooms, it’s not always that the
teacher has knowledge about what a student may ask but it is prudent of the teacher to take the
question, look into it and later come and teach the disciples after he has learnt.
Always back your teachings with scripture. Make sure you can prove from the canon of
scripture what you are teaching as it says. Don't twist scripture to prove what you want to say.
-
Make sure you are doing what you teach
The former treatise have I made, O Theophilus, of all that Jesus began both to do and teach,
Acts 1:1 KJV
And my speech and my preaching was not with enticing words of man's wisdom, but in
demonstration of the Spirit and of power: 1 Corinthians 2:4 KJV
As a discipler, how you live your life is easily learnt by your sheep than what you teach hence
the need to practice what you teach. Don’t teach them by enticing words of man’s wisdom they
should see your manner of life. Apostle Paul tells the Corinthians that his preaching was not in
enticing words but a demonstration of power and Spirit. The book of Acts also teaches us how
Jesus began to do and to teach. Much of his teachings were his way of life. He taught his
disciples how to pray because they usually saw him praying (And it came to pass, that, as he
was praying in a certain place, when he ceased, one of his disciples said unto him, Lord, teach
us to pray, as John also taught his disciples. Luke 11:1 KJV)
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Discipling under a ministry
Oftentimes, the essence of discipling in a ministry is not understood adequately by disciplers.
Due to this, the structure- in terms of raising the sheep after a particular pattern- of discipleship
in a ministry is not as effective as it should be. These are due to the lack of right knowledge
about discipling people under a set-man. It is a privilege given to the disciplers by the set-man
to serve as captains over the flock but some checks and balances need to be put in place to
avoid issues pertaining to raising the sheep after the pattern of the discipler instead of the setman (that is if the discipler is not imitating the set-man adequately). The following are some
keys to check for in discipling under a ministry.
▪
Ultimately the goal of discipleship is to point to Christ. It is a means through which
Christ is to be revealed to the disciples. The disciples are to look to the discipler and be able to
see Christ, the Chief Shepherd. In pointing to Christ, the Apostle that is sent to the people, of
which a discipler is tied to in the labor of discipleship must be the pattern to follow after even
after Christ. It is beyond doubt that Discipleship is to point to Christ but in pointing to Christ
there is a pattern that is to be emulated. This pattern is birth from the Set man over the house
and this pattern is to be made available through the discipler. The discipler must understand
that there is no other pattern to be taught other than that over the house. Hence, the discipler is
to remain connected to his source rather than sustaining a mindset of he has been called to
ministry.
Be ye followers of me, even as I also am of Christ. 1 Corinthians 11:1 KJV
My little children, of whom I travail in birth again until Christ be formed in you, Galatians
4:19 KJV
▪
As a discipler in a ministry, teach the disciples using the materials provided by the setman and is used in the ministry. Never train the disciples after the materials of other ministries
as it shapes them after the pattern of those ministries rather than the ministry in which they've
been placed unless authorized to do so by the Set-man. Apostle Paul, in his admonishments,
asked his disciples to follow him since he begot them in the faith (1 Corinthians 4:15, For
though ye have ten thousand instructors in Christ, yet have ye not many fathers: for in Christ
Jesus, I have begotten you through the gospel.)
Beloved, when I gave all diligence to write unto you of the common salvation, it was needful
for me to write unto you, and exhort you that ye should earnestly contend for the faith which
was once delivered unto the saints. Jude 1:3 KJV
The author admonishes us to contend for the faith which was once delivered unto the saints.
Teach the disciples to hold on to the teachings of the set-man even as you teach them with the
materials provided by the set-man for the ministry except authorized to teach with a different
material.
And the things that thou hast heard of me among many witnesses, the same commit thou to
faithful men, who shall be able to teach others also (2 Timothy 2:2 KJVS)
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For they themselves shew of us what manner of entering in we had unto you, and how ye turned
to God from idols to serve the living and true God; 1 Thessalonians 1:9 KJV
But thou hast fully known my doctrine, manner of life, purpose, faith, longsuffering, charity,
patience, Persecutions, afflictions, which came unto me at Antioch, at Iconium, at Lystra; what
persecutions I endured: but out of them all the Lord delivered me. 2 Timothy 3:10-11 KJV
Also, teach the sheep the ways of the Apostle and Set-man of the ministry, rather than your
ideologies. Your ideologies are not what will mould them into the pattern they are to follow. It
is through teaching them the doctrine, the manner of life, his purpose, his faith, his charity,
persecutions, afflictions of the Apostle that they develop into the pattern they are to follow
even as they follow Christ. There is a vision the Lord has given the Apostle and what you're
doing is partnering not pioneering the vision hence it's not wise to think you can rub shoulders
with the Set- man. Usually, when the disciplers begin to operate in certain gifts of the Spirit
and understand certain things in scripture, they feel they can change the ideologies passed on
by the set-man. Teach the sheep to love the Set-man and know his person rather than pointing
them away and using his inadequacies against him. As the ministry grows, the set-man becomes
less present to attend to the needs of every single one in the commission because of high
demand and it is likely for the members to feel left out. The new members that join the
commission may not enjoy the same relationship the existing members have had with the Setman. The organogram of the ministry will not afford the members at the lower end of the
ministry have direct interactions with the set-man but it is important for those at the low part
to have experience as those at the peak of the structure that’s why there is the need for a cell
system
▪
The bible record of Absalom, a man who led the people away from their king, stole the
hearts of the men of Israel and made their heart turn towards him because he fed them with an
ideology that the king has no interest in the affairs of the people but he does, and so men came
to him seeking for solution (2 Samuel 15:1-6- And it came to pass after this, that Absalom
prepared him chariots and horses, and fifty men to run before him. ²And Absalom rose up early,
and stood beside the way of the gate: and it was so, that when any man that had a controversy
came to the king for judgment, then Absalom called unto him, and said, Of what city art thou?
And he said, Thy servant is of one of the tribes of Israel. ³And Absalom said unto him, See, thy
matters are good and right; but there is no man deputed of the king to hear thee. ⁴Absalom said
moreover, Oh that I were made judge in the land, that every man which hath any suit or cause
might come unto me, and I would do him justice! ⁵And it was so, that when any man came nigh
to him to do him obeisance, he put forth his hand, and took him, and kissed him. ⁶And on this
manner did Absalom to all Israel that came to the king for judgment: so Absalom stole the
hearts of the men of Israel.). As a discipler under a set-man, it is imperative that in all your
interactions with the sheep, you make them know the love of the set-man for them and not paint
him as one who has no interest in their well-being. Encourage them to get to know him, speak
about him to them often, let them know him through you even if he is not readily available due
to the duties he has. The reason your team will grow, your branch will grow, and your cell will
grow is when you begin to acknowledge that it is not about you, you're not the starting point
but there's a main tree that you're picking from, that's the Set-man. Grow in the light of what
God is doing by understanding the vision of the Set-man and partner with him.
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▪
Be loyal, accountable and agree with the leaders of the commission or ministry, the setman and the work; Set structures for yourself to be reporting to them frequently. If you face
challenges, do well to report through the right channel. Even if you've been permitted by the
Set-man to handle such issues, do well to report to him the progress and result of it. As a
discipler under a Set-man, know what God is doing and follow suite with reference to the Setman. As the Bible says in Job 12:12(With the ancient is wisdom; and in length of days
understanding), wisdom is with the aged, never at any point think you know what God is doing
more than your man of God. Always seek to hear and know what God is doing from his lips as
it will position you on how to communicate it with the sheep. Don't communicate anything
without first consulting the Set- man. Stay connected to the ministry in heart, doctrine, and in
the place of honor as this will enable you to replicate the pattern to the sheep.
Then Adonijah the son of Haggith exalted himself, saying, I will be king: and he prepared him
chariots and horsemen, and fifty men to run before him. And his father had not displeased him
at any time in saying, Why hast thou done so? and he also was a very goodly man; and his
mother bare him after Absalom. And he conferred with Joab the son of Zeruiah, and with
Abiathar the priest: and they following Adonijah helped him. But Zadok the priest, and Benaiah
the son of Jehoiada, and Nathan the prophet, and Shimei, and Rei, and the mighty men which
belonged to David, were not with Adonijah. And Adonijah slew sheep and oxen and fat cattle
by the stone of Zoheleth, which is by Enrogel, and called all his brethren the king's sons, and
all the men of Judah the king's servants: But Nathan the prophet, and Benaiah, and the mighty
men, and Solomon his brother, he called not. Wherefore Nathan spake unto Bathsheba the
mother of Solomon, saying, Hast thou not heard that Adonijah the son of Haggith doth reign,
and David our lord knoweth it not? Now therefore come, let me, I pray thee, give thee counsel,
that thou mayest save thine own life, and the life of thy son Solomon. 1 Kings 1:5-12 KJV
From the scripture above, we see Adonijah trying to exalt himself and be king. Many men like
Abiathar and Joab followed him but we see a group of people who were loyal to the the King
David and agreed with him. When Adonijah called the kings sons, we see that he did not call
the Nathan, the Prophet and the other men due to their loyalty. Accountability and loyalty to
the king made them concerned about the welfare of the kingdom such than, Nathan counselled
Bathsheba to confront the king about the issue. Having the commission at heart will cause you
to remain faithful to the Set-man. You will not agree with anything that seems contrary to the
vision given to the set-man. What would have happened to the kingdom if loyal and
accountable men like Nathan, the Prophet did not arise and counsel Bathsheba? Choose to
remain loyal to the leaders, set-man and the work.
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Family Life (Flock Life) in Discipleship
The Flock life is a profound and intricate relationship between Lambs and Sheep. It goes
beyond mere co-existence; it extends to the lamb learning how to hear the voice of the Shepherd
through the Sheep. The relationship between lambs and sheep is very crucial. Lambs learn how
to hear the voice of the Shepherd from the older and more experienced sheep. There is a saying
that, if you want to know the heart of your father, ask your older siblings. The sheep, or the
mature disciples, being older and more experienced serve as mentors and guides for the lambs.
It is through this lamb-sheep relationship that lambs are able to learn, grow, and ultimately
cultivate a sense of trust and obedience for the Shepherd even as they thrive within the flock,
mirroring the examples set by the older or mature Sheep. The lamb, as the younger and
vulnerable member of the flock, must learn how to hear the voice of the Shepherd from the
sheep. This involves sharing in values and building a strong relationship based on trust and
communion. There must be no misunderstanding between the flock, as this can lead to discord
and confusion. The relationship between the Lambs and the sheep should be characterized by
communion where the sheep share their wisdom and experience with the lambs. The mature
Sheep or disciple must bear the weakness of the younger or less experienced ones. Scripture
says in Romans 15 that we who are strong ought to bear with the scruples of the weak, and not
to please ourselves. The older or mature Sheep have built intimacy by fellowshipping with the
Shepherd over time and so can discern the voice of the Shepherd even amidst chaos. The mature
Sheep or mature disciples serve as guides, teaching the lambs or less experienced disciples the
values and principles of the flock, and cultivating a strong relationship with them based on trust
and mutual understanding. Since it's a disciple-disciple relationship, the lambs and the flocks
should strive to build bonds based on mutual respect, trust, and love, recognizing that they are
all members of the same flock united in their devotion to the Shepherd. For instance, the mature
Sheep should make room for mistakes, and contribution so that everyone has the opportunity
to learn, unlearn and relearn.
The concept of pairing accountability partners is essential in flock life. The sheep are paired up
to support and guide each other in their spiritual journey. By being each other's keeper, the
flock can foster a sense of responsibility and commitment towards one another, ultimately
strengthening their relationship and fostering a deeper sense of communion. It also enables
individuals to teach and nurture one other. This will ensure that the flock grow and flourish
together in harmony.
Bear one another's burdens, and so fulfill the law of Christ (Galatians 6:2). One of the beautiful
things about being in a flock is that you are not alone. God intentionally connects you with
other believers in the flock and one of the reasons is so we can strengthen and encourage each
other. There are times when the sheep will have to stand with each other on certain issues.
Through that, the bond grows stronger. It is through this they fulfil the law of Christ which
teaches us to love others as He has loved and loves us even as they provoke each other unto
good works.
and let us consider one another to provoke unto love and to good works: not forsaking the
assembling of ourselves together, as the manner of some is; but exhorting one another: and so
much the more, as ye see the day approaching Hebrews 10:24-25(KJV)
And the multitude of them that believed were of one heart and of one soul: neither said any of
them that ought of the things which he possessed was his own; but they had all things common.
And with great power gave the apostles witness of the resurrection of the Lord Jesus: and great
grace was upon them all. Neither was there any among them that lacked: for as many as were
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possessors of lands or houses sold them, and brought the prices of the things that were sold,
And laid them down at the apostles' feet: and distribution was made unto every man according
as he had need. And Joses, who by the apostles was surnamed Barnabas, (which is, being
interpreted, The son of consolation,) a Levite, and of the country of Cyprus, Having land, sold
it, and brought the money, and laid it at the apostles' feet. Acts 4:32-37 KJV
We see the family life being practiced in the early church from the verse above. There was a
proof of love, oneness as they were of one heart and of one soul and they shared things in
common so much that none of amongst them that lacked. The unity, love allowed that great
power was seen amongst them. Great power is released when brethren dwell together in unity
and in love. That was the prayer of Jesus in John 17:21; (That they all may be one; as thou,
Father, art in me, and I in thee, that they also may be one in us: that the world may believe that
thou hast sent me.) Our unity is a testament to the world that we are of God.
However, in situations of misunderstandings, the discipler must in wisdom, address the sheep
such that the goal will be to gain a fellow sheep and not to win an argument. The shepherd
should not take anyone’s side even if they know that side is right as it breeds offense in the
other sheep.
An issue most shepherds face is the effect of a sheep feeling “left out” or lonely. As a shepherd,
pray for your sheep and also teach and enforce unity and love among the sheep because when
the sheep begins to feel left out or lonely, there is the tendency of them starting to hear “that
voice of God” telling them to separate because that is not where they are supposed to be- that’s
not their family. It is a major issue a lot of shepherds face and one way to avert this is to instill
the flock life in them. Get everyone involved, teach them to get involved with the work being
done and to get to interact with the other sheep in the flock.
Another thing to take note of as a shepherd is, the devil only finds means of getting the sheep
to separate from the flock so as a wolf, can strike and devour them. As long as the sheep remains
in the flock, the wolves fear to attack. So many people leave to follow other shepherds and
“ministries” because they feel lonely hence separate themselves and, in the process, the
“available and much more loving” shepherd or ministry gets them to join their flock.
Awake, O sword, against my shepherd, and against the man that is my fellow, saith the LORD
of hosts: smite the shepherd, and the sheep shall be scattered: and I will turn mine hand upon
the little ones. (Zechariah 13:7)
The intention of the devil striking the shepherd is to get to the sheep. The only reason why the
shepherd will be stuck is to get the sheep scattered that devouring them will be easy.
³That which we have seen and heard declare we unto you, that ye also may have fellowship
with us: and truly our fellowship is with the Father, and with his Son Jesus Christ. ⁴And these
things write we unto you, that your joy may be full. ⁵This then is the message which we have
heard of him, and declare unto you, that God is light, and in him is no darkness at all. ⁶If we
say that we have fellowship with him, and walk in darkness, we lie, and do not the truth: ⁷But
if we walk in the light, as he is in the light, we have fellowship one with another, and the blood
of Jesus Christ his Son cleanseth us from all sin. ⁸If we say that we have no sin, we deceive
ourselves, and the truth is not in us. ⁹If we confess our sins, he is faithful and just to forgive us
our sins, and to cleanse us from all unrighteousness. ¹⁰If we say that we have not sinned, we
make him a liar, and his word is not in us. (1 John 1:3-10)
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From the verses above, we see that it is also important that the lambs and the sheep, that is, the
younger or less experienced disciple and the mature disciple do not forsake the fellowship of
the saint (essentially with each other) for scripture makes us understand that as they fellowship
with the saint (each other), they are fellowshipping with the Father and with the Son Jesus
Christ. There’s the practice of the truth for anyone who walks in light as we have fellowship
with one another. There’s a progressive cleansing that comes when the sheep walk in the light.
Walking in the light does not mean you’ve never stumbled or gone wrong, it looks at a practice
of walking in the light, making a lifestyle of it. Until a person begins to walk in the light,
fellowship is not complete. Fellowship goes beyond coming together to worship.
The first point of socialization of someone is in the family. Whether in the home, at church, or
in school. The family system in relation to discipleship is really crucial in an individual's life.
When someone finds him/herself in a family system, he goes according to the pattern of that
family. The Family life holds immense importance. It provides a foundation for spiritual
growth and transformation. Everyone, especially the young are allowed to air their views and
to be corrected. The family unit provides a foundation for socialization, transmitting the norms
and values, to the younger or less experienced ones. It also serves as a support system during
times of need, offering emotional, financial, and practical assistance. Family life is a place of
love where the strong bear the infirmities or the weakness of the weak and also share in each
other's pain and provide a shoulder for someone. Family serves as a microcosm of the larger
community, allowing individuals to practice discipleship within a familiar and supportive
environment. Within the family, relationships are built, values are taught, and faith is nurtured.
It is through familial connections that individuals learn about love, forgiveness, and sacrifice,
all essential principles in the disciple's journey. Moreover, the family acts as a source of
accountability, encouraging individuals to live out their faith authentically and serving as a
reminder of their commitment to discipleship. Overall, family life plays a crucial role in
shaping and sustaining discipleship, creating a solid framework for spiritual growth and
development.
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Cell System
The Cell ministry is God's classroom. The Cell ministry is the training tool of God for every
area of life. The cell ministry is a universal success strategy. It is not an idea or an experiment
but scriptural. The book of Exodus 18:17-20(¹⁷And Moses' father in law said unto him, The
thing that thou doest is not good. ¹⁸Thou wilt surely wear away, both thou, and this people that
is with thee: for this thing is too heavy for thee; thou art not able to perform it thyself alone.
¹⁹Hearken now unto my voice, I will give thee counsel, and God shall be with thee: Be thou for
the people to God-ward, that thou mayest bring the causes unto God: ²⁰And thou shalt teach
them ordinances and laws, and shalt shew them the way wherein they must walk, and the work
that they must do) shows us the pattern of the cell ministry in the book of old. The cell ministry
serves as a means where everyone in the family unit has a role to play. The Cell ministry makes
you a companion of Jesus. (Acts 4:13). It is through the cell system that you get the opportunity
to put your faith to work, to raise people, to live out a life of service, to live out the purpose for
which God created you. Contrary to the norm of the Cell system being for church growth, the
emphasis of the Cell System is to provide a platform for training in ministry. The cell system
serves as a foundational school for new members or disciples as it is so important to help the
disciples renew their minds through constant feeding on the Word of God and the Sermons of
the man of God. In the cell system, cell leaders are appointed and these cell leaders are
privileged to train people to be who Christ wants them to be as they fulfill the core mandate to
make disciples of all nations.
NB: Cell System will be dealt with in another Martyrs manual
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The Importance of Discipleship
i.
It is an instruction given by the Lord Jesus.
Raising disciples is primarily very essential because it was commanded by our Lord to do
so. It forms part of what is popularly termed the Great Commission. Knowing that the
instructions of God are geared towards life and His eternal purpose, we need to obey it. [Go
ye therefore, and teach all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father, and of the Son,
and of the Holy Ghost: Teaching them to observe all things whatsoever I have commanded
you: and, lo, I am with you always, even unto the end of the world. Amen, Matt 28:19-20,]
ii.
It is within God’s plan of reaping many sons:
Looking at the concept of uihothesia we've understood that it is through discipleship that he
can harvest the sons he seeks to have of the best quality - after the likeness of Christ. As men
are selected, taught and built, it transforms them especially in their minds and souls towards
effective impact in the kingdom
iii. It establishes saints in the faith:
Saints, in both Hebrew and Greek context, speaks of a holy, pious person. Not just in the
legal sense, but people who actually walk the talk. Through the transformation of their minds
and the right teaching, we are able to raise people fully set apart unto God [1 Thess 4:4That every one of you should know how to possess his vessel in sanctification and honour;].
iv.
It ensures effective growth in the body of Christ:
(And he saith unto them, Follow me, and I will make you fishers of men. Matthew 4:19 KJV)
As people are discipled, they are being built to raise others thus fulfilling the principle, Every
disciple, A discipler and eventually ensuring the growth of the body of Christ as further
explained in Table 1
v.
It ensures that there is a preservation of kingdom culture:
In every kingdom, the culture is what is important. It is what makes the people. It is what
distinguishes them. Without discipleship, there'll be a people who'll rise with a twisted
doctrine and practices.
vi.
It affords one the opportunity of being accountable to another:
Scripture admonishes us to be accountable to one another. In order not to be found wanting
when we're overwhelmed with circumstances, temptations and burdens. Through the course
of discipleship, we come across trustworthy brethren with wisdom to be able to be open to
such situations [James 5:16(Confess your faults one to another, and pray one for another,
that ye may be healed. The effectual fervent prayer of a righteous man availeth much.), Gal
6:2(Bear ye one another's burdens, and so fulfil the law of Christ.)]
vii.
Through discipleship, one is able to identify innate God-given mandate and giftings:
It's through such avenue that men come to the light of the deposits of God at work in them.
There have been several instances of people not finding their bearing in life till they were
efficiently discipled. [Matthew 16:18(And I say also unto thee, That thou art Peter, and upon
this rock I will build my church; and the gates of hell shall not prevail against it.), 2 Tim
1:6-7 (Wherefore I put thee in remembrance that thou stir up the gift of God, which is in thee
by the putting on of my hands. ⁷For God hath not given us the spirit of fear; but of power,
and of love, and of a sound mind.)]
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viii. Discipleship brings one into the place of fraternizing with the mysteries of the Kingdom:
Effective maturation affords one the privilege of engaging certain hidden things that the Lord
cannot commit to the shallow ones -truth must be handled in all righteousness [Matt
16:11(How is it that ye do not understand that I spake it not to you concerning bread, that
ye should beware of the leaven of the Pharisees and of the Sadducees?) , Luke 24:45(Then
opened he their understanding, that they might understand the scriptures,)]
ix.
Discipleship affords one the opportunity to be made and nurtured into purpose, with
reference to the Body of Christ
x.
Discipleship enables disciples to come to consciousness of their identity in Christ.
xi.
Discipleship helps one to renew their minds and be transformed and conformed to the image
of Christ: The average man has a mindset that is fashioned by the way of this world, the soul
corrupted, and his belief system, way off what the Lord would have him. However,
understudying a man who has been taught and retrained in Christ grants such one the same
privilege. [Rom 12:2, And be not conformed to this world: but be ye transformed by the
renewing of your mind, that ye may prove what is that good, and acceptable, and perfect,
will of God.]
xii.
Discipleship to an extent mirrors the father-son construct in the faith hence, bringing some
level of understanding before submission and following: Inasmuch sonship is more rigorous
and demanding, being a disciple prepares you for that stage to be able to yield the adequate
fruits after your Set-man or Father in the faith.
xiii. The ministry grows when the people grow:
Ministries tend to go the extremes to yield quantitative growth, however, what they miss is
that; qualitative growth is a key to quantitative growth. If the men see the results in the
discipleship of your followers they'll be attracted. By the fruits of your disciples, many shall
come to your light.
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Prayers made for the Shepherds (Apostles)
Ye also helping together by prayer for us, that for the gift bestowed upon us by the means of
many persons thanks may be given by many on our behalf. (2 Corinthians 1:11 KJV)
Now I beseech you, brethren, for the Lord Jesus Christ's sake, and for the love of the Spirit, that
ye strive together with me in your prayers to God for me; That I may be delivered from them
that do not believe in Judaea; and that my service which I have for Jerusalem may be accepted
of the saints; That I may come unto you with joy by the will of God, and may with you be
refreshed. (Romans 15:30-32 KJV)
Praying always with all prayer and supplication in the Spirit, and watching thereunto with all
perseverance and supplication for all saints; And for me, that utterance may be given unto me,
that I may open my mouth boldly, to make known the mystery of the gospel, For which I am
an ambassador in bonds: that therein I may speak boldly, as I ought to speak. (Ephesians 6:1820 KJV)
Withal praying also for us, that God would open unto us a door of utterance, to speak the
mystery of Christ, for which I am also in bonds: That I may make it manifest, as I ought to
speak. (Colossians 4:3-4 KJV)
Pray for us: for we trust we have a good conscience, in all things willing to live honestly. But I
beseech you the rather to do this, that I may be restored to you the sooner. (Hebrews 13:18-19
KJV)
Finally, brethren, pray for us, that the word of the Lord may have free course, and be glorified,
even as it is with you: And that we may be delivered from unreasonable and wicked men: for
all men have not faith. (2 Thessalonians 3:1-2 KJV)
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