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For those of us who came through the Navigators program, Growing in Christ,
we will find a good review in this book. It also gives stronger emphasis on the
importance of relationships in the disciple making process. To make disciples,
Morton says, requires much personal attentiveness. Developing the kind of
relationships that lead to disciple making will take time, hence an investment
on the discipler’s part.
Jesus said that making disciples requires “teaching all things whatsoever I
command you.” This book falls short of that command. While it deals with some
helpful things such as the importance of the prayer, the Word, witnessing, and
fellowship, it truncates the process. You will, however, find some helpful
thoughts, such as the five mistakes to avoid in leading small groups or keeping
the third generation in mind in the process.
The appendix gives a good review of the Navigators philosophy and program as
well as some outlines on various topics such as temptation, Scripture memory,
and giving. This book could increase your desire to become involved in the
disciple making process. While it offers some helpful and practical ideas and
thoughts, realize that it only deals with part of the process. We will be
writing more on what we call the Kingdom model of making disciples. I agree with
Morton when he says, “So don’t be reluctant, scared, or worried about
discipling. Just be a down-to-earth discipler. It works.” However, in saying
that we also must understand what and how “teaching all things whatsoever I
command” according to Jesus has to do with the discipling process.
- Charles Dunahoo, CEP Coordinator
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