Make Disciples

Last week we looked at the Roman Road which many people use to present the plan of salvation. This is clearly an important thing to do because it is God's desire that everybody be saved. 

But what are the next steps for the new believer?

• baptism
• getting plugged in to a Christian fellowship (church)
• Personal spiritual growth 

Does a new believer automatically know how to do these things? Does a newborn baby know how to drive a car?  Just like a newborn  needs a grownup to take care of them -- to feed them baby food before they tackle a steak -- so do spiritual babies need a spiritual mentor in their lives. It's up to us who are more mature believers to show them the ropes -- take them under our wing and nurture them. Otherwise they'll get overwhelmed by it all, fall into the shadows, and slip out the back door of the church unnoticed. 

"Therefore, go and make disciples of all the nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and the Son and the Holy Spirit. Teach these new disciples to obey all the commands I have given you. And be sure of this: I am with you always, even to the end of the age.”
Matthew 28:19-20

Notice that Jesus doesn't say, "Go make believers." He says to make disciples. We are to baptize them, teach them and help them understand they will never be alone. 

Any ideas about how to do this?

Lord, thank you for equipping us to bring people to Christ and to mentor them as they mature spiritually. Help us to be mindful of those around us who might need our help. Eli us to nurture them well.