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What is a Disciple?

A disciple is someone following Jesus, being changed by Jesus, and joining the mission of Jesus.

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The Disciple Makers Podcast: Understanding Clear Biblical Definitions

In this episode of the Disciple Makers Podcast, hosts delve into the second principle of disciple making: the importance of using clear biblical definitions. Featuring mega church pastor Jason Ishmael and prolific disciple maker Josh Howard, this episode explores what it truly means to be a disciple and the transformative journey of following Jesus. The hosts discuss the definitions from Matthew 4:19, emphasizing the three core components of being a disciple: following Jesus, being changed by Jesus, and joining Jesus's mission. They also examine the implications for church leaders and the necessity of creating pathways that lead to effective disciple making. The episode concludes with practical advice for stepping out in faith and taking actionable steps to live out these principles. For more resources, visit discipleship.org and join upcoming events for further learning.

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Key Takeaways 

00:00 Introduction to the Disciple Makers Podcast

00:54 Defining Disciple Making

02:20 The Core Mission of Disciple Making

02:54 The Transformative Work of Jesus

06:12 The Cost and Worth of Following Jesus

12:57 Personal Reflection on Discipleship

13:41 Personal Reflection on Discipleship

13:57 Challenges for Church Leaders

14:14 Defining Discipleship

15:33 Head, Heart, and Hands Discipleship

16:28 The Power of Clear Definitions

17:22 The Reality of Change

19:40 Disciple Making Defined

23:28 Practical Steps for Disciple Making

28:25 Encouragement and Resources

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See Below for a longer description:

Defining Disciple-Making

In this episode of the Disciple Makers Podcast, Josh Howard and Jason Ishmael explore the second disciple-making principle: the importance of clear biblical definitions. Their lighthearted yet insightful conversation focuses on what it means to be a disciple and the core responsibilities involved in disciple-making.

Why Clear Definitions Matter

Josh emphasizes that without a clear definition of discipleship, confusion and inconsistency arise. He notes that asking 100 Christians for their definition of a disciple would likely yield 100 different answers. Clarity, he argues, is essential for effective disciple-making.

What is a Disciple?

A disciple is someone following Jesus, being changed by Jesus, and joining the mission of Jesus.

Josh breaks this down into three key components—following, transformation, and mission—highlighting their central role in discipleship.

Day-One Calling and Transformation

Jason reflects on Jesus's call to His first disciples in Matthew 4:19, stressing that this transformative calling happened on day one—not after years of refinement. Following Jesus involves an ongoing process of change and closeness to Him.

Challenges in Modern Christianity

Josh points out that many Christians treat following and being transformed by Jesus as optional. He urges believers to move beyond shallow engagement and pursue genuine transformation through repentance, confession, and surrender.

Head, Heart, and Hands Discipleship

Jason shares Bobby Harrington’s framework for holistic discipleship:

Head: Intellectual surrender to Jesus

Heart: Experiencing transformation

Hands: Actively engaging in Jesus's mission

This framework aligns with the greatest commandment—to love God with all heart, mind, soul, and strength—and provides a balanced approach to discipleship.

Defining Disciple-Making

Jason underscores that disciple-making is intentional and relational. It’s about forming meaningful relationships that help others follow Jesus, experience transformation, and engage in His mission.

Practical Steps for Church Leaders

Josh and Jason challenge church leaders to develop clear, actionable discipleship plans—and ensure they’re implemented effectively. They stress the importance of guiding believers through intentional spiritual growth.

Overcoming Fear and Stagnation

Jason acknowledges the fear many feel about stepping into disciple-making roles. Josh encourages listeners to embrace the process, trusting that God works through imperfections and initial missteps.

Motivating Believers

The hosts share strategies to engage believers, using personal stories and biblical examples to highlight the life-changing impact of true discipleship.

Next Steps

Josh recommends practical ways for listeners to evaluate their discipleship journey and create simple pathways for growth. He closes with an invitation to explore resources at discipleship.org and engage with the disciple-making community.

Conclusion:

This episode challenges believers and church leaders to define discipleship clearly and pursue intentional, relational disciple-making aligned with Jesus's mission. The hosts balance theological depth with practical advice, leaving listeners equipped and inspired.