Good thoughts Paul. We definitely need to make sure we don't go rushing off into something without the power of the Spirit. We won't get much accomplished for the Kingdom that way! But, on the other hand, we have to be careful to not just sit around and do nothing! That brings me back to the word "go" or in the original meaning "as you go" in other words in what you are already doing in life (ie what Paul says about remaining in your position in life). A balance indeed!

My immediate thought on these verses, always is: Don’t rush off unprepared, on your own initiative [being presumptive]. Instead, wait until you are “called,” and are empowered by the Holy Spirit to successfully accomplish God’s work, for the specific mission for which you are called. [ref. Luk 24:49 NKJV - And behold, I send the promise of My father on you. But you sit in the city of Jerusalem until you are clothed with power from on high. (repeat: But you sit (wait)…until you are clothed with power from on high].

When saved, we are to remain where we are (in our former environment, though set-aside to God), until God personally calls us to a specific lifetime mission (sends us out). [ref. 1Co 7:20 Let each one remain in the calling in which he was called.]

Paul

Steve, I agree it is important (imperative) to have that proper groundwork understanding of what exactly a disciple is if we plan on making more disciples.

It's interesting that you say it will come naturally, because in studying Matthew 28:19-20 the word "go" actually implies "as you go" (check it out here
) It makes it sound as though it will be a given (natural response). Good insight!

I think the previous 27 chapters of Matthew would be a good introduction
to discipleship, epspecially chapters 5 through 7. In the Sermon on the Mount, Jesus lays the groundwork for discipleship, which having a heart
for the Father, being in an intimate relationship with Him and being ready and willing to put Him first in all areas of life. When those things are in place, going into all the world and making disciples of all nation will come naturally. Yielding to the Holy Spirit and following His direction also helps.

Good insight! I agree that we have often confused "make disciples" with "make converts". "Conversion" is just the beginning of, like you said, a lifelong journey of discipleship.

Anyone else?

When I read this scripture, the key word to me is "disciple" as opposed to "convert." I think many Christians who are passionate about evangelism tend to focus only on the salvation message to reach the goal of obtaining a new convert, rather than expanding that message to include what happens after a person becomes a Christian. Making disciples is a much more involved process, since it involves not only modeling the Christian life in front of others but also investing our time to develop and nurture relationships with one another. It does involve sacrifice, but the benefits of seeing others grow in their walk with Christ far outweighs the cost. Christ doesn't say "go and make disciples if you feel like it, if you have the time, etc." When we step out in obedience to Him despite the busy schedules and obstacles we face, we experience the blessings of obedience and bring glory and honor to His name. I thank my God for all of those who loved Him enough and loved me enough to invest in discipling me. That eternal investment allowed me to be where I am today, though I strongly believe that discipleship is a lifelong process for each of us.