What’s that, you ask?
A lost necessity in much of the American church.
Of all the organizations that require teamwork and mentoring, you’d think church would be the perfect example. Unfortunately, that isn’t the case all too often.
Most churches are terrible at discipleship. Too many people either don’t see the need to directly mentor (they do the work to bring them to church then leave it up to the pastor to “save” them) or neglect the need because they’re too afraid to step out of their comfort zones. As a result, there is a surplus of Christians who fall by the wayside because they're trying to do it all on their own. Additionally, there is a lack of community. Church-goers have slowly begun to attend church expecting a more passive entertainment experience. In reality, church should look more like a family gathering, worshiping with each other and growing together in their individual relationships with God.
Small groups in church function beautifully (when it’s done at all and done right) because even the gathering itself reflects the core purpose: intimate relationship and discipleship.
Mentoring at Central Christian College comes pretty naturally, because of how small the community is. Many a time have I personally been encouraged by faculty and staff members. And not just a, “Gee, I hope you have a good day.” The compassion is very authentic and specific, because you’re more than just another project to manage or paper to grade to them. It’s easier to open up to someone when they genuinely care about you.
When the Body of Christ starts looking more like a family and less like a nice little weekly divertissement, discipleship will flow automatically, because the love for others that God stirs in us when we completely surrender to Him and His will is hard to ignore.
I send daily text devotionals to a girl I know who has just begun a relationship with God. It’s not much, but it’s a start. Discipleship doesn’t have to be so complex or foreboding. It’s an intentional effort to encourage your brothers and sisters to remain in Christ. And getting our hands dirty in each others’ struggles is definitely something we shouldn’t be so prissy about.
Granted, there are seasons. There are times in your walk with God you will need more encouragement than you have to give out. It’s up to you and God to help you discern what season you’re in, what you’re capable of practically, etc. Overall, however, Jesus’ call to discipleship means that if you have the opportunity to mentor someone, get on it.
Discipleship takes work. Relationships take work. It’s a commitment. The world is afraid of commitment. The Church being afraid of the same things the world is afraid of is unacceptable. Let God change you and love compel you, and you will find discipleship a lot less scary than you think.
BY: Ariana Matty
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