Focus on Reproduction, Mentor's Guide, MG12

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F O C U S O N R E P R O D U C T I O N

5. What part does baptism and membership play in a new believer’s follow-up? What is the relationship between a new convert’s learning the Word of God and them attending sermons and studies where the Word of God is taught? Which is most important, and why? 6. Do you think it is absolutely necessary for a new believer to be a part of a small group of believers in order to grow? Explain your answer. 7. Can anyone disciple another, or what particular qualifications does one need in order to qualify for being a spiritual parent and friend to a new believer? 8. What is the distinction between conversion and discipleship , and how does follow-up help a person distinguish between the two? 9. Both the Assemble and Nurture stages of church planting involve much attention given to the ongoing growth of new believers. In your judgment, how soon must a new believer be brought under immediate pastoral care if they are to survive the initial attacks of the enemy? Explain your answer. 10. What are some of the practical steps involved in the practice of biblical follow-up. Why is it so important that these steps be followed in the context of a local church ?

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The High Calling of the Church in the Kingdom of God

• To love God and glorify God, Rev. 2.4; Eph. 1.5–6, 11–12, 14; 3.21; 2 Thess. 1.12

• To be a trophy of the divine grace of God, Eph. 2.7; 3.6, 10; 1 Pet. 2.9

• To make disciples of all nations through worldwide evangelization, Matt. 28.19–20; Mark 16.15; Luke 24.47; John 20.21; Acts 1.8 • To baptize new believers in Christ, and ground them in his teaching, Matt. 28.19; Phil. 4.8–9; 1 Tim. 4.6; 5.17; 2 Tim. 2.2, 24–25 • To build up believers for the sake of maturity in Christ, 1 Cor. 14.16; Eph. 4.9-16; 1 Thess. 5.11; 2 Pet. 3.18; Jude 20

• To discipline the wayward for the sake of restoring them to faith, Matt. 18