After more than 50 years in the church—and now serving as a discipleship pastor—I’ve come to recognize a deeply rooted and widespread issue facing the modern church. It’s a problem we can’t afford to ignore any longer. We must ask ourselves a hard but necessary question: Are we making disciple-makers or simply hoping for church members?

 

I am so very grateful that I was raised in biblically sound churches. The teaching was solid, the doctrine strong. But the focus was primarily on gaining knowledge, not living in obedience to Jesus. Sadly, not much has changed. Week after week, year after year, we continue to prioritize information over transformation. We’ve become well-versed in Scripture, but often slow to apply it. It’s time for a shift—from knowledge-based discipleship to obedience-based discipleship.

 

If you want to test my observations, try this simple test. Next Sunday, ask your church, Sunday school class, or small group to recite the Great Commission. Chances are, many will be able to quote it. Then ask this follow-up question: “Who are you discipling right now?” More often than not, the room falls silent. Try the same test in your next church staff meeting. You’ll likely hear the same response—silence. 

 

The message is clear: We’ve mastered biblical knowledge but neglected biblical obedience.

 

This book is a call back to the Great Commission—not just knowing Jesus’ commands, but living them out and teaching others to do the same. I hope that through this book, you’ll be challenged, encouraged, and equipped to lead others in becoming true disciples who make disciples.