Building a Reproducing Ministry, One Disciple at a Time
And he gave the apostles, the prophets, the evangelists, the shepherds and teachers, to equip the saints for the work of ministry, for building up the body of Christ...—Ephesians 4:11-12 (ESV)
In recent posts, we explored the beauty of a biblical vision for the local church— rooted in the gospel, led by faithful shepherds, and embraced by every member.
So what do we do, if we want to equip—and we have people who want to be equipped? How does that actually work? Is it about going through a discipleship curriculum? Training classes? Setting up pathways for growth?
Maybe. But before you get there, here are some things to consider.
Building a Reproducing Ministry
Equipping others begins not with a program but with prayerful, relational intention. As you consider how to invest in the next generation of disciples, take time to work through the following questions:
1. Start with a person, not a program.
Jesus didn’t choose crowds—He chose a few. In our own experience, equipping usually begins with one or two interested people. It certainly isn’t efficient, but that is Jesus’ method, as is Paul’s counsel to Timothy (2 Tim. 2:2). Yet by starting small, we are able to invest deeply—and these in turn, will reach others. This isn’t about favoritism but the wise stewardship of our time into those who have the desire to disciple others as well.
So begin by prayerfully and intentionally identifying a small number of faithful, teachable individuals. I look for the one who listens well and asks thoughtful questions, who serves quietly and faithfully. These people may not have charisma or obvious talent, but they are reliable, humble, and teachable.
Who has God placed in your life that is faithful and teachable, even if not yet confident or experienced?
2. Spend time together.
Just as Jesus lived with His disciples, leaders must move beyond Sunday interactions and into regular rhythms of shared life. This could look like meals together, ministry on-the-go, or simply letting them into your family routines. It is in this time together where truth is not just taught but observed in action. Let them see your joys, your struggles, and your repentance. That kind of proximity forms disciples.
So consider what you’re already doing: ministry prep, errands, family time, or meals. How can you make space for someone to walk alongside you in the everyday?
What regular rhythms of your life could you invite others into—without needing to add more to your plate?
3. Make the most of teachable moments.
Even though equipping can be informal, there is also an intention. Jesus spent a lot of time doing life with His disciples, but they were peppered with truth as He ate meals, walked the dusty roads, and observed life around him. Likewise, leaders must teach both doctrinal truth and personal devotion.
This is where our personal spiritual practices can become communal. Consider taking time to share the passage you’re studying, take them along as you pray for someone in the hospital, or share the gospel at the coffee shop. Let them see not only the what but also the how—and more importantly, the why behind gospel ministry. This shapes habits that can reproduce.
What core truths or practices do you long to pass on—and how could you do that in a personal way?
4. Build in the expectation of reproduction.
Jesus trained His followers to become disciple-makers. This is the key to equipping that multiplies. The end goal is not merely to disciple one person. The end goal is to disciple someone who is equipped and ready to disciple someone else. This is an essential understanding of discipleship and how the church builds itself up in love.
Whenever possible, give those you’re discipling the opportunity to help. As they grow in their maturity and skills, step back and let them take the lead. If they feel unsure, gently remind them you are there to help. Afterwards, debrief and encourage them in their efforts. The goal is to slowly step back and let them make the decisions in praying, sharing the gospel, and counseling others.
Who in your circle is ready to be challenged to multiply—and how can you encourage them to begin?
5. Recognize and encourage unique gifts.
No two disciples will look alike. That is why we resist describing a prescribed plan for all. Rather, our job is to be watchful, noticing each person’s unique gifts and callings—not to pump up their self-esteem, but framing it in light of the Body. Help them see that their unique role contributes to the whole (Eph. 4:13–16).
Your leadership isn’t about uniformity, but harmony—diverse parts working together in love for God’s glory. Beyond spiritual gifts, consider their experience, background, natural talents, or even their stage of life. Be quick to celebrate their distinct contributions even as you keep pointing them back to our shared mission in Christ.
How can you affirm the unique strengths of those you’re discipling while helping them pursue unity in Christ?
One Life at a Time
Discipleship starts small—one faithful relationship, one shared meal, one intentional conversation at a time. It often starts slow, but faithful discipleship over time can yield much fruitfulness. As more and more people take up the call to make disciples, the church can expand and mature together, building itself up in love, as Christ intended it.