In this video, Josh Buice explains that the segmentation of church programs can result in fragmented church communities that resemble individual units rather than a unified body. Buice points out that this segmentation can lead to internal discord, disunity, and hindered spiritual growth. He particularly emphasizes the adverse effects observed in churches heavily focused on youth culture, where youth-centric programs might inadvertently stunt spiritual growth, leading to a lack of preparedness when transitioning to a broader church context.

Buice advocates for a holistic approach to discipleship, guided by the scriptural aim of achieving maturity. He cites the need to steer away from a state of spiritual immaturity where individuals become easily influenced by varying doctrines. Instead, he emphasizes the importance of a unified, mature body of believers grounded in the unchanging truths of Scripture.

"Ephesians 4:14-15 (NKJV): "that we should no longer be children, tossed to and fro and carried about with every wind of doctrine, by the trickery of men, in the cunning craftiness of deceitful plotting, but, speaking the truth in love, may grow up in all things into Him who is the head—Christ."

Has the church lost its focus by trying to attract more followers through worldly means?

In this video, Toby Logsdon observes that many churches have resorted to pragmatic tactics, such as using entertainment and popular culture, to attract more people. He argues that this approach is flawed because it is based on the assumption that the things of this world can lead people to spiritual growth. Logsdon asserts that while such methods may initially draw crowds, they do not promote lasting commitment or spiritual growth, as people will only stay as long as they are entertained.

Logsdon further emphasizes that the mission of the church is not to seek numerical growth but spiritual growth. While it may be tempting to use gimmicks to attract a larger congregation, this approach often takes a one-size-fits-all methodology, which fails to consider the individual spiritual needs of each person. The church's mission is not to entertain but to make disciples, and that requires a personalized and sincere approach.

Matthew 28:19-20 (NKJV): "Go therefore and make disciples of all the nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit, teaching them to observe all things that I have commanded you; and lo, I am with you always, even to the end of the age. Amen."

What does it mean to be a lifelong learner and lover of Jesus Christ?

In this video, Brandon Scroggins describes a disciple as a lifelong learner and lover of Jesus Christ. A disciple is portrayed as someone who has attached their life to a master, experiencing a heart change that leads to a transformation of their entire life. This conversion brings about a fresh desire for the Lordship of Christ, propelling them towards a life that mirrors not the world, but Christ.

This new way of life involves not just learning from Jesus but also loving Him with the entirety of our lives. As disciples, we are inculturated into the life of Christ, learning to take on His ways. This change is not just about knowledge acquisition, it's about embracing Jesus with all that we are and all that we have. It's about a life completely surrendered to Christ.

2 Corinthians 5:17 (NKJV): 'Therefore, if anyone is in Christ, he is a new creation; old things have passed away; behold, all things have become new.'

How does the act of following Jesus manifest in our daily lives?

In this video, Paul Washer emphasizes the importance of following Jesus in a Christian's life. The focus is not on living a life of perfect adherence to rules and regulations, but rather on striving to emulate Jesus in everything we do. This includes acknowledging our shortcomings, seeking grace, and making amends whenever we falter. It is about pursuing Jesus, even when we stumble and fall, with the goal of becoming more like Him.

Washer emphasizes that this pursuit is not solely about adhering to a set of rules, but about establishing a relationship with Jesus. It is about walking with Him, not wanting to grieve Him, and constantly learning from His word. Our motivation to follow Jesus should stem from our love for Him. Washer shares his personal journey of following Jesus for four decades, and how his relationship with Jesus has kept him in ministry and helped him overcome numerous challenges.

John 16:33 (NKJV): "These things I have spoken to you, that in Me you may have peace. In the world you will have tribulation; but be of good cheer, I have overcome the world."

What does it mean to fulfill the Great Commission given by Jesus in Matthew 28?

In this video, Scott Aniol explains that the scope of the Great Commission goes beyond simply preaching the Gospel and making disciples of all nations. It is more than the initial act of bringing people to the faith and baptizing them. This command from Jesus implies the incorporation of new believers into local churches, where discipleship continues to take place regularly, not just on Sundays, but throughout the week as well.

The Great Commission, according to Aniol, extends to the lifelong process of discipleship. It doesn't cease with individuals accepting Christ and joining a church. Church leaders and parents have the ongoing responsibility to teach new and growing disciples about Jesus’ teachings, how to live in accordance with the Gospel, and to foster spiritual maturity by deepening their understanding of God's will and their commitment to follow His guidance in all aspects of life.

Matthew 28:20 (NKJV): "Teaching them to observe all things that I have commanded you; and lo, I am with you always, even to the end of the age. Amen."

How can we inspire our children to pursue evangelism?

Paul Carrington highlights the importance of introducing children to the lives of men and women who had an ardent desire to share the good news of Jesus Christ. These historical figures, despite their imperfections and mistakes, made significant contributions to the spread of the gospel. Individuals like Hudson Taylor, George Mueller, and Adoniram Judson serve as excellent examples. Carrington emphasizes the importance of using age-appropriate biographies to teach children about these influential figures.

There are also lesser-known evangelists like Jonathan Goforth who are equally important. These individuals had a deep-seated desire to share the goodness of Jesus Christ and disciple nations. Carrington encourages parents to use these stories to inspire their children and hopes that God uses each one of us to further His kingdom.

2 Timothy 4:5 (NKJV): 'But you, be sober in all things, endure hardship, do the work of an evangelist, fulfill your ministry.'

How can we raise our daughters to embrace their God-given roles in a society that promotes a different mindset?

In this video, Robert Bosley discusses the importance of a well-ordered and organized home life, particularly for our daughters. He emphasizes the need to reject the modern mindset that pressures women into roles that God did not intend for them. Instead, he encourages us to raise our daughters to embrace their femininity and the roles God has called them to.

According to Bosley, this is not a lesser calling. Rather, it is an opportunity for women to be queens and prophetesses in God's kingdom. It is not about becoming a slave or an object of desire, but about joyfully accepting and fulfilling the roles that God has assigned. This, he believes, is the key to maintaining order in the home, the church, and society at large.

Proverbs 22:6 (NKJV): "Train up a child in the way he should go, And when he is old he will not depart from it."

Are we focusing too much on the system of evangelism and missing the simple message that Jesus brings?

Kevin Swanson argues that there's too much human orientation and process tweaking in our approach to evangelism. He raises concerns about a lack of intentionality and intensiveness, leading to a shallow commitment to Jesus. Instead of attracting followers of Jesus, he worries that we are attracting followers of the program. He believes we've strayed from the core message of discipleship, which is to receive the words, repent of our sins, and turn in faith to Jesus Christ. 

Swanson also highlights the problematic separation of evangelism and discipleship, and the disconnection between faith and life. He laments that the result is a shallow church that merely attracts a growing apostate generation, yielding more "wood, hay, and stubble" than "gold, silver, and precious stones." He urges a return to a continual process of encouraging an ongoing trust and life of repentance, where faith fully reflects in our manner of life.

2 Timothy 2:15 (NKJV): "Be diligent to present yourself approved to God, a worker who does not need to be ashamed, rightly dividing the word of truth."

Is discipleship merely an academic discipline or does it require a deeply personal commitment?

Paul Thompson suggests that we've misconstrued discipleship as an academic pursuit, limiting it to classroom settings. While there is a place for learning and understanding the doctrines of the Bible, discipleship extends beyond that. It involves a deep, personal relationship between the disciple and the one discipling them. They share experiences, meals, and life's journey, symbolizing a commitment to walk together in this spiritual journey.

Discipleship necessitates disruption. It requires both the one discipling and the disciple to make life-altering decisions that break the mold of their existing plans. It's a commitment that might even require living together, emphasizing the depth of the relationship. The modern model of discipleship seems to have lost some of this depth, often limiting discipleship to convenient, non-disruptive interactions.

Matthew 16:24 (NKJV): "Then Jesus said to His disciples, 'If anyone desires to come after Me, let him deny himself, and take up his cross, and follow Me.'"

How can parents effectively bridge the gap in understanding biblical terms with their children?

In the video, Chris Law highlights a common challenge faced by parents in discipling their children— the assumption that children automatically grasp the meaning of biblical terms. He emphasizes the importance of not overlooking this potential misunderstanding. Terms like "gospel," "repent," and "holy" may not be fully comprehended by children, even if they nod in agreement.

Chris suggests that parents should take the time to ask their children about the meaning of these terms, ensuring a shared understanding. This active engagement helps in laying a solid foundation for spiritual understanding and growth in the children. By actively involving children in discussions about the gospel, repentance, and holiness, parents contribute to a deeper and more authentic understanding of these concepts in their children's lives.

"Train up a child in the way he should go, And when he is old he will not depart from it." Proverbs 22:6 (NKJV)