Disciple making is more art than science. It’s a process that rests on principles that adapt to each setting. It can’t be pinned down by just one definition or program. Each discipler brings his own set of strengths and weaknesses. Each disciple has their own obstacles and limitations.

As a result, having a set of disciple making definitions helps provide both clarity and a sense of direction. Like cars that kids drive at an amusement park, the rail in the middle provides both control and freedom. A set of key definitions act as a rail that allows for latitude and safety.

I have three definitions that I carry around with me. Each one reminds me of at least one unique but vital part of disciple making. I frequently share these in my ministry as a reminder of what we’re called to do and how we must do it. In that way, each one speaks uniquely about something the discipler must keep in mind to accomplish the task. What’s the task? To develop others who are following Jesus to become like Jesus, to reproduce other disciples who are deeply in love with Christ.

Here are my top three disciple making definitions:

1. Friendship with a vision. Disciple making must be relational. The relational connection is the foundation that the rest of disciple making is built upon. While friendship is vitally important, disciple making is more than friendship. In addition to friendship, there must be vision and movement to make that vision a reality. To disciple someone, I must have clarity about who this person is now and vision for who God is helping them to become.

As an experienced discipler, I know that God is calling us all to become like Jesus—to become a disciple maker. Since I’ve discipled others, I know how to help someone become a disciple maker. At the same time, each person is unique, so the journey and our experience on the journey will be new to me and special. I know that along the way we’ll struggle at times, thrive at others, and when we arrive we’ll both be changed.

I love this definition because it hits both the relational and intentional part of disciple making. Friendship keeps us together when the journey gets tough and brings lots of enjoyment when things are going well. Vision keeps us focused on moving forward towards the calling that God has placed on our lives.

2. Personal Spiritual Training – Lots of people have a physical trainer, right? Have you ever considered the impact that a spiritual trainer could have on your life? Disciple making is like being a personal spiritual trainer for another who is seeking to grow in their spiritual fitness.