I have learned how to influence people through my two best friends. They have greatly influenced my relationship with Jesus. My relationship with these men is a blend of discipleship and friendship. Discipling others is first and foremost about
being a friend.
Discipling begins before conversion
Discipleship starts long before a person becomes a convert. The simple thrust of the Jesus’ great commission is go and disciple people everywhere. This means discipling is a process that begins before conversion. Even Jesus became friends with the Twelve before they were converted. It is not our role to convert people, but to disciple them. Conversion is exclusively God’s territory. Every person who comes into your orbit is a person you could
disciple
– by first becoming his or her friend. A true friend conveys one simple message: part of the reason for my life is to make yours a whole lot better.
Jesus teaches us how to influence people
This is what Jesus did during his earthly ministry. Leaving his throne of grace, Jesus came to earth and lived his life among the lost. He brought God’s grace into everyday settings like people’s homes, social events and the marketplace. Problems and life circumstances were his classroom.
Being aware is more important than being smart
With an acute spiritual and relational awareness Jesus looked for people. In his book The Overload Syndrome, Dr. Richard A Swenson notes, “Ministry was the person standing in front of him at the time.” Jesus gave common grace to the needy and amazing grace to the receptive. Trusting God’s power, no situation was hopeless. Jesus never let anything hinder the flow of God’s love.
Is it time to narrow your focus so you can minister to the people in front of you? These
words from Paul
will inspire you.
Begin with friendship
The discipleship process begins with friendship. When unbelievers see us as friends they are more likely to see Jesus as one. We should approach our relational networks like Jesus would – as servants and friends. Offering grace and truth, we can be
spiritual guides
to those who are struggling with life. Confidently believe that your daily work serves His kingdom. Your specific occupation, position and company are irrelevant. What matters is your availability to God. Your friendship is more valuable than a title. God is able to channel his grace through you.
Author: Paul Schlieker
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What does the Bible say about influencing others through your
leadership?
If your friend wants to study the Bible, here's a good way to start.
Bible Basics
is especially written for people "who don't know what the Bible is, let alone what it's all about."
The discipleship process begins with friendship. When unbelievers see us as friends they are more likely to see Jesus as one. We should approach our relational networks like Jesus would – as servants and friends. Offering grace and truth, we can be
spiritual guides
to those who are struggling with life. Confidently believe that your daily work serves His kingdom. Your specific occupation, position and company are irrelevant. What matters is your availability to God. Your friendship is more valuable than a title. God is able to channel his grace through you.
