When you have your own team of friends, as the leader, you are really being a shepherd to them, too. So, how do you turn friends into disciples?
A disciple is one who follows another person. That person, in turn, teaches his or her disciples, through words and actions.
Jesus called His disciples friends. So, just because you are leading them does not mean you are superior. In fact, Jesus humbled Himself on purpose. He came down from Heaven to our level; Jesus Christ literally became 100 percent man, yet He was also 100 percent God. The way the two were intertwined into one nature is a miracle. That makes Christianity different from every other religion.
When you disciple your friends, you are teaching them to be more like Christ. It’s the same as how you will help your family.
You can do that in many ways. Friends can sit in on Bible studies, or go to church with you. You can do more than just take breaks by hanging out with them. You can share with them things you have done that have worked – and ones that haven’t. And, share some of the things you’ve learned as you’ve paryed and walked with God through this experience of spiritual leadership. You can encourage them to grow spiritually by praying, following the commands of Philippians 4:8, Ephesians 6:10-18, and other verses filled with promises of victory in this world.
Of course, you should do it in a loving way. Be yourself; don’t try to act super spiritual. Good Christians realize they are just sinners saved by grace. And, every one of us fails, too. Be a servant – just like you are for those you shepherd.
Of course, at this point, you might be thinking, “Wait a minute. Some of this sounds like what I should do with my family.” And, you’re right. Because, the Christian life isn’t just about going to church, being good, or even having victory.
The Christian life is all about multiplying, and making the family of God grow. We should never divide our love. We should multiply it.
