Contagious Disciple Making by David L. Watson and Paul D. Watson

Last updated: Sep 12, 2023

Summary of Contagious Disciple Making by David L. Watson and Paul D. Watson

Contagious Disciple Making by David L. Watson and Paul D. Watson is a comprehensive guide that explores the principles and strategies behind effective disciple making. The authors emphasize the importance of creating a contagious movement of disciples who are equipped to make more disciples.

The book begins by highlighting the need for a shift in mindset from traditional church models to a focus on making disciples. The authors argue that the Great Commission calls for every believer to be actively involved in spreading the Gospel and making disciples. They stress the importance of personal relationships and intentional conversations in the disciple-making process.

One of the key principles discussed in the book is the concept of "Obedience-Based Discipleship." The authors emphasize the need for disciples to not only learn about Jesus but also to obey His teachings. They provide practical steps for implementing this principle, such as identifying specific areas of obedience and creating accountability structures.

The authors also delve into the importance of prayer in disciple making. They encourage believers to pray for specific individuals and communities, asking God to open doors for conversations and opportunities to share the Gospel. They emphasize the role of the Holy Spirit in guiding and empowering disciples in their mission.

Another significant aspect of the book is the authors' emphasis on simplicity and reproducibility in disciple making. They argue that complex programs and methods can hinder the spread of the Gospel. Instead, they advocate for simple, easily replicable strategies that can be adapted to different cultural contexts.

The book also addresses potential challenges and obstacles in disciple making, such as cultural barriers, persecution, and resistance. The authors provide practical advice on how to navigate these challenges and maintain a focus on making disciples despite the difficulties.

Overall, Contagious Disciple Making offers a comprehensive and practical guide for believers who are passionate about making disciples. It provides a clear framework and actionable strategies for creating a movement of disciples who are equipped to spread the Gospel and make more disciples.

1. The Power of Multiplication

In Contagious Disciple Making, the authors emphasize the power of multiplication in spreading the message of the Gospel. They argue that instead of focusing on addition, where one person shares the message with another, disciples should be trained to multiply themselves by equipping others to share the message as well. This multiplication strategy allows for exponential growth and impact.

The authors provide practical steps for implementing this multiplication strategy, such as identifying potential leaders, training them in disciple-making principles, and empowering them to train others. By focusing on multiplication rather than addition, individuals and churches can have a far-reaching impact and see the Gospel spread rapidly.

2. The Importance of Obedience-Based Discipleship

Watson and Watson argue that obedience-based discipleship is crucial for effective disciple-making. They emphasize the need for disciples to not only learn about the teachings of Jesus but also to put them into practice. Obedience-based discipleship involves teaching individuals to obey the commands of Jesus and encouraging them to take action.

The authors provide examples of how obedience-based discipleship can lead to transformation and growth. They highlight the importance of accountability and support in helping disciples live out their faith. By focusing on obedience, disciples are not only learning about Jesus but also experiencing His power and presence in their lives.

3. The Role of Prayer in Disciple-Making

Contagious Disciple Making emphasizes the importance of prayer in the process of making disciples. The authors argue that prayer is not just a tool for asking God to bless our efforts but an essential part of the disciple-making process itself. They encourage individuals and churches to prioritize prayer and seek God's guidance and empowerment.

The authors provide practical suggestions for incorporating prayer into disciple-making, such as praying for specific individuals, praying for open doors of opportunity, and praying for boldness and wisdom. They believe that prayer is a powerful tool that can transform hearts, open doors, and bring about supernatural results in the disciple-making process.

4. The Need for Contextualization

Watson and Watson stress the importance of contextualization in disciple-making. They argue that the message of the Gospel needs to be communicated in a way that is relevant and understandable to the specific cultural context. They encourage individuals and churches to adapt their approach and methods to effectively reach different people groups.

The authors provide examples of how contextualization can be applied, such as using local language and cultural references, understanding the worldview of the people being reached, and adapting teaching methods to suit the learning styles of the audience. By contextualizing the message, disciples can effectively communicate the Gospel and make it accessible to diverse cultures and communities.

5. The Power of Stories

Contagious Disciple Making highlights the power of stories in communicating the message of the Gospel. The authors argue that stories have a unique ability to engage people emotionally and make the message memorable. They encourage individuals and churches to use storytelling as a tool for disciple-making.

The authors provide practical suggestions for incorporating storytelling into disciple-making, such as sharing personal testimonies, using parables and illustrations, and utilizing media and technology to tell stories. By using stories, disciples can connect with people on a deeper level and effectively communicate the transformative power of the Gospel.

6. The Importance of Relationships

Watson and Watson emphasize the importance of relationships in disciple-making. They argue that discipleship is not just about imparting knowledge but about building authentic relationships with individuals. They encourage individuals and churches to invest time and effort in building meaningful connections with those they are discipling.

The authors provide practical suggestions for building relationships, such as spending time together, listening and empathizing, and providing support and encouragement. By prioritizing relationships, disciples can create a safe and nurturing environment for growth and transformation.

7. The Role of the Holy Spirit

Contagious Disciple Making highlights the role of the Holy Spirit in the disciple-making process. The authors argue that the Holy Spirit is the ultimate teacher and empowerer, and disciples should rely on His guidance and power. They encourage individuals and churches to cultivate a dependence on the Holy Spirit in their disciple-making efforts.

The authors provide examples of how the Holy Spirit can work in disciple-making, such as giving supernatural wisdom and discernment, empowering individuals to share the Gospel boldly, and transforming hearts and lives. By relying on the Holy Spirit, disciples can experience supernatural results and see God's kingdom advance.

8. The Call to Disciple All Nations

Watson and Watson emphasize the call to disciple all nations as given by Jesus in the Great Commission. They argue that disciple-making is not limited to a specific group or location but is a global mandate. They encourage individuals and churches to have a global perspective and actively engage in cross-cultural disciple-making.

The authors provide practical suggestions for engaging in cross-cultural disciple-making, such as learning about different cultures, partnering with local believers, and adapting strategies to suit the cultural context. By embracing the call to disciple all nations, disciples can participate in God's global mission and see the Gospel spread to the ends of the earth.

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