Jonathan Murphy, Dept Chair of Pastoral Ministries at Dallas Theological Seminary, writes an excellent discussion around the principles of being an effective disciple maker by telling the story of a minor character named Barnabas from the book of Acts.
This book is a quick and entertaining read (180 pages, not dense) which will teach you
- how to reflect Jesus in your community
- see the potential in others and how to encourage them to act
- leadership through presence; encouraging others
- truth + love as demonstrated by Jesus
Some really important key point from this book:
- Barnabas was sensitive to Gods voice and obedient
- Shape the lives of others to continue to bring people to know and love Jesus – Discipleship
- Transform the world for the positive and neutralize the negative activities of Satan
- Be a dreamer and a doer – have a vision for the world, but be able to execute it as well. A vision that isn’t executed has no value
- Look for the potential in others and take risks on them but also understand there is a great risk and and potential for hurt when discipling. Leadership is pain.
- Expect great things from God and attempt great things for God
- Expect changes and tension in life – be able to navigate that