The First Meeting

Written by Ray Willis

At the outset of any discipleship relationship using FIRST STEPS, it’s best to arrange an initial, informal meeting to accomplish three things: 1) explain what the discipleship process will entail, 2) show how the workbook is used, and 3) open up the relationship by getting to know one another.

During the initial meeting, ask open-ended questions, listen to the responses, and discern how you can be praying for them. Share from your life experiences and allow others to see how God has worked in your life. Keep in mind that being an effective discipler is more about being real, open, caring and engaged. Avoid feeling the need to project perfection because projecting perfection communicates that, to be a good Christian, we must be perfect. Besides the obvious (no one is perfect), projecting perfection and raising facades stunts the process.

To accomplish the objectives for the initial meeting, take nothing for granted. Bring an extra Bible and ask if they have any familiarity with how to find books, chapters and verses. Show them the discipleship workbook and explain that you’ll do one lesson per week, and take the time to discuss what is expected of them during the process (i.e. doing the study guide, committing to the process, and being open to change as God leads). Likewise, share your commitment to them throughout the process and stick to the plan. That way, they’ll be able to replicate the process for others when they take up the responsibility of discipling others.

Lastly, realize that God is working through you to impact the life of someone else. At the same time, He is working in you because He loves you and takes pleasure in seeing His children obeying His Great Commission to make disciples.