The purpose of this workbook is to assess, diagnose, and offer treatment through biblical principles to the affected ministry within the church, namely, the discipleship of men and
women. If the Great Physician were to give the Body of Christ a spiritual examination with regard to discipleship, would the diagnosis read, “Nurtured or Neglected: Thriving or Failing to Thrive?” Sadly, many in the Church believe that discipleship is a program. Bible professor and author Jim Berg, states, “Biblical discipleship is not primarily a program. It is a certain kind of relationship between two believers with a very specific spiritual goal in mind. Discipleship is helping another believer make a biblical change toward Christlikeness—helping others in the sanctification process.”4 Likewise, Bible professor, Max Barnett agrees, stating, “The focus on knowing Christ in a progressive way and then making Him known to others
isn’t a program to go through, but a lifestyle to develop.”5 In other words, discipleship is the process of allowing the Lord to apply His words to the heart (mind, will, and emotion) with the same results—if only we will allow Him.