From Attendees to Disciples

David Kinnaman writes in Ministries Today that ninety million people attend church - but most of them merely 'dabble' in Christianity. His research shows that "true, lasting spiritual transformation is very rare in churches today." He goes on to discuss three factors preventing dicipleship from happening as it should. They are:
1. Dischipleship by definition is hard work. It is much easier to settle for life-as-usual.
2. Most churches have lost touch with how to measure discipleship. Attendance, volunteerism, and small group participation does not necessarily mean a person is growing in Christ.
3. We often think our churches are making disciples because we have programs.

George Barna's book, Think Like Jesus, says that only one out of eleven churchgoers possess a holistic biblical perspective. That means that very few people process reality in a biblical way.

What are the solutions? Kinnaman concludes:
1. Clearly articulate the goal and process of discipleship.
2. Create segnificant indicators of spiritual growth.
3. Determine to help people grow in systematic, rather than random ways.
4. Invest heavily in children and families.
5. Continually ask yourself tough questions about discipleship.

Where does this leave us at Trinity?
First, it is great to know that we have determined to do something about making disciples. It does take a lot of effort and work, but we have started down a great path.
Second, it is important for us to think systematically about discipleship. Again, what do we want the end product to be and how do we get there? We need a framework that makes sense and engages people in becoming more and more like our Lord.

Serving Him,
Keith