Page 166 - First Steps 2023
P. 166

Notes on Conversations


        Here’s some quick, practical advice about how to lead these sessions so
        they’re of the most benefit for the Jesus-follower you’re discipling, and for
        you, too.


           1
                 Review the expectations covered in the Introduction—

                 perhaps several times.
                 It’s okay to look them over every few sessions with the person
                 you’re discipling to ask if you’re holding up your end of the
                 bargain.
            Which opens up the opportunity to give some feedback to the Jesus-
        follower you’re discipling, too.
            The boundaries and expectations expressed in the Introduction are
        there because we’ve found—in the context of thousands of discipling rela-

        tionships—they’re important and need to be respected. Ignore them and
        you’ll shortchange the person you’re discipling—and yourself.


           2
                 Remember: You’re not the “Answer Person.”
                 It’s not your role to have all the answers. Your role is to facilitate
                 growth by prayerfully cooperating with what Jesus is doing in the

                 life of the person you’re discipling.
               Which means sometimes the best thing you can do is stay out of
        the way. Jesus is doing the discipling; you’re helping.
               Keep Jesus in focus at all times. The best thing you can do for oth-
        ers is to help them draw closer to Jesus; ask him to give you a sensitivity
        to what he’s doing throughout your sessions.


           3

                 Do the Stretch Activities.

                 Even if you’ve discipled a dozen people, do the activities each
                 and every time. You’re modeling what “all-in” looks like, and

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