Discipleship Manifesto

RAC Vine Project

 

 

We believe that God calls us to be and make disciples of Christ. 

 

What is a Disciple?

A disciple is a devoted follower of Christ who actively learns about Him, lives in service to Him, and teaches others to follow Him. Disciples undergo spiritual growth and maturity, becoming transformed into the way of Christ and yielding more and more to Him in obedience. Moreover, they seek to be aligned with God's will, as revealed by Scripture. 

 

Why Should We Make Disciples?

Our primary motivation for making disciples is that the world is broken and spiritually dead - transformation through faith in Jesus is the only solution to the problem of sin. Leading others to Christ, i.e., helping unbelievers become disciples, results in their reconciliation with God and eternal salvation. We therefore desire to make disciples because we care for others. Moreover, we recognize that disciple making glorifies God and allows us to partner with Him in redeeming the lost. Finally, we are prompted by obedience: Jesus explicitly calls his followers to make disciples in the Great Commission. (Matthew 28:19-20)

 

How Do We Make Disciples?

Our approach for making disciples should be customized based on needs, backgrounds, and experience. Disciple making generally includes the following 1) building personal relationships, 2) proclaiming God's word 3) the work of the Holy Spirit 4) acts of service, 5) modeling discipling behavior 6) patient perseverance, and 7) prayer. Each of these elements contribute to an ongoing process of personal transformation and spiritual growth. Resources such as courses, songs, books, and videos may assist disciple making. Additionally, voluntary accountability can strengthen disciple-building relationships and promote living more like Christ. 

 

Who Should Be Making Disciples?

All Christ followers should be making disciples. 

 

Where and When Should Disciple Making Occur?

Disciple making can occur anywhere and at any time. We should not limit our disciple making endeavors to the church building or during church sanctioned events. Rather, we should actively pursue relationship building, evangelism, and spiritual growth in any venue as opportunities arise. 

 

Matthew 28:19-20 Go therefore go and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the father and of the son and of the Holy Spirit, and teaching them to obey everything I have commanded you. And surely, I am with you always to the very end of the age.