Churches invest significant time, energy, and resources in helping people grow in their faith. We offer Bible studies, small groups, classes, leadership training, and discipleship pathways designed to help people become more like Jesus.
These resources can be valuable. But an important question deserves our attention: Are our discipleship efforts actually helping people grow spiritually?
It’s possible to have a full calendar of activities without developing the kind of relationships that encourage lasting spiritual transformation.
The difference between programs and people
Programs can provide structure. They can introduce biblical truths, create opportunities for fellowship, and help people develop spiritual disciplines. But a program alone cannot fully address the unique experiences, struggles, questions, and opportunities present in each person’s life.
People are not projects to complete. They are individuals God loves and continues to shape.
One person may need encouragement to persevere through a difficult season. Another may need to be challenged to take a step of faith. Someone else may be ready to use their gifts in ministry but need help discovering where to begin.
Effective discipleship recognizes these differences.
Jesus modeled a relational approach
Throughout the Gospels, we see Jesus relating to people in deeply personal ways. He didn’t use identical words or approaches in every situation. He listened, asked questions, taught, challenged, encouraged, and restored.
His relationships were personal, but they were never without purpose. Jesus met people where they were while inviting them to grow.
What might happen if our churches placed greater emphasis on this relational dimension of discipleship?
Rather than asking only how to involve more people in our programs, we could ask:
- What is God doing in this person’s life?
- What might help this person take their next step in faith?
- How can I encourage spiritual growth through a purposeful relationship?
- Am I making room to listen before deciding what someone needs?
These questions can change the way we approach ministry.
Start with the people already around you
Rethinking discipleship doesn’t necessarily mean abandoning existing programs or creating something new. It may begin by approaching the people in those programs differently.
Listen more intentionally. Pay attention to individual needs. Encourage honest conversations about faith. Help people identify their next steps in following Jesus.
The goal isn’t simply greater participation. It’s spiritual transformation.
In Seeing People, Trusting God, Dr. Rupert Loyd invites pastors, ministry leaders, and everyday believers to rediscover the deeply personal, relational way Jesus made disciples. The book offers a practical framework for understanding the purposes of discipling relationships and applying them to everyday ministry.
If your church is ready to think more intentionally about making disciples, this resource is a helpful place to begin.
Ready to rethink your approach to discipleship?
Explore Seeing People, Trusting God and order your copy today.
Dr. Rupert Loyd Jr. has a BA in history from Miami University in Oxford, Ohio, an MDiv from Gordon-Conwell Theological Seminary in Boston, and a PhD in Leadership from Union University in Cincinnati. He has over 40 years of pastoral experience in both urban and suburban churches, including multiethnic, multi-congregational churches. Throughout his career, he has maintained a presence in both the church and the academy. Dr. Loyd currently teaches graduate and undergraduate classes in the College of Business and Leadership at Lourdes University, and he holds the post of lead pastor at Marketplace Community Church in Toledo, Ohio. Connect with him at rupert@churchdoctor.org.