In the 1960 a guy named Robert E. Coleman (I think I am going to start using my middle initial on things) wrote a book called The Master Plan Of Evangelism. Coleman does a masterful job of tracing the process and steps Jesus took to develop disciples in the first century. Why do this? Well, God perfectly crafted the steps of Jesus therefore, we can learn a great deal by looking at how he called people to follow him and what things he did to develop his disciples. Not only is this helpful in our church and personal ministry, but it is helpful as we seek to be disciples (learning followers) of Jesus ourselves.

I read this book in college, but recently picked it back up again and wanted to share with you my big take aways from it. Here it is in a top 10 format...

10. Men were Jesus method. He called people to himself and spent time with them. Relationships were hugely important to his mission.

9. Jesus spent significant amounts of time with a few people. Jesus had lots of relationships, but clearly he spent more time developing and pouring into a few than he did the masses. The disciples were there watching and being mentored along the way.

8. Jesus did not shy away from challenging people. While Jesus was with his disciples he called them to a better life. This happened in one on one times as well as in large groups. Who could ever forget John 6 where we see this clearly.

7. Jesus called for obedience. While Jesus accepted people wherever they were, he did not leave them there. Obedience to God's ways and calling were hugely important in the development process. He knew they were dull, but he still demanded their obedience.

6. Jesus was all about impartation. His way was his life. He had something to give to the world and to his disciples.. himself.

5. Scripture was key. Altogether there are at least 66 references to the Old Testament in Jesus dialogue with his disciples plus more than 90 allusion. Always take people to the Word.

4. Delegation was part of the development process. Jesus assigned clear tasks and roles to his followers. In doing they grew.

3. Wax on and wax off. Jesus not only asked Danielson to do things, but he was there along the way to supervise, offer advice, and take over when things got sticky.

2. Take the hill! Jesus clearly told us to take the hill, not hold the fort. The church is taking ground from the enemy not holding out for a better day! Jesus was always moving forward to set people free.

1. This mission is bigger than one of us. Jesus reproduced himself in others and calls us to do the same. He didn't ask us to pray for the world, but for the harvest gathers to be raised up. Join his mission.

Hope you take the time to read this classic work!

Joe Darago
Lead Pastor