Disciple Making Movements grow quickly—sometimes too quickly. While rapid multiplication is exciting and necessary because millions remain lost without Christ, this growth must be healthy, sustainable, and rooted in strong discipleship.
Why Rapid Growth Matters
Our world is hurting—both spiritually and physically. The faster we reach lost souls with the Gospel, the more we reflect Christ’s love. Our goal, however, must be “fruit that will last” (John 15:16), not just temporary decisions for Christ. Lasting fruit comes when we deeply disciple those who put their trust in Jesus. Fruitfulness is not just having big numbers to report.
Four Warning Signs of Unhealthy Movement Growth
Converts Without Discipleship
When people change religion but don’t follow Jesus in obedience, growth is shallow. True disciple-making involves learning and living out all of Jesus’ commands—not just the one to preach the gospel to others. If you notice this could be a problem, consider the solution below.
Solution: Evaluate how well the movement’s disciples are understanding and applying Jesus’ teachings and way of life. Introduce a Bible study set related to Jesus’ commands and draw emphasis to this.
Weak Evidence of Life Transformations
Disciples should reflect Jesus in how they live and love. If their ways of behaving with family, at work, and in their community aren’t changing, something is amiss.
Solution: Listen for transformation stories and regularly assess the level of lifestyle shifts. Emphasize both Jesus’ character and the fruit of the Spirit as well as His commands.
Lack of Community Impact
Disciples who are isolated or disengaged from their communities miss the broader mission to see the Kingdom of God established here on earth as in heaven. Movements should bring blessing and social changes to their neighborhoods and regions.
Solution: Train more about practically loving our neighbors. Encourage community engagement as part of the discipleship DNA. In your disciple-making, bring a holistic Gospel that addresses both eternal and current needs of those around us.
Poor Biblical Foundation
Rapid growth can sometimes outpace biblical depth, especially in later generations like the seventh or fifteenth. As some group leaders may only know a few Bible stories well, this can leave room for error or false teaching in the movement.
Solution: Test Bible knowledge across the movement’s generations. Ensure exposure to the full counsel of Scripture, including the epistles. Use oral-friendly, reproducible methods to teach broader biblical content and provide audio Bibles whenever possible.
Final Thoughts
Don’t fear rapid growth—pursue it boldly. At the same time, do this with wisdom. Building strong foundations now will ensure the movement you have catalyzed bears fruit for many years to come.
Reflection Questions
- Are you establishing a movement that will still bear fruit 100 years from now?
- Are you personally growing in Bible knowledge and your ability to recall stories from His Word?
- Are you actively loving your neighbors and engaging in your community?
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