“The Role of the Church in Disciple-Making”

Abstract

This article examines the essential role of the church in disciple-making, emphasizing its Biblical, theological, historical foundations and contemporary applications. By exploring biblical mandates and historical trends, the study demonstrates that the church's mission is a fundamental aspect of God's redemptive plan, highlighting the coaction between divine initiative and human participation. Addressing gaps in missiological understanding within the Adventist tradition, the research advocates for a collaborative approach among Christian denominations. It probes into the concepts of Missio Dei, the Great Commission, and disciple-making, positing that disciple-making is inherently a divine activity. The study aims to enrich the Adventist community's practice of disciple-making by fostering a shift from men’s centred activities towards a God-centred mission, inclusive of the contributions of other Christian groups. By aligning the church's role with the broader mission of God, the paper proposes a model for effective disciple-making that is attuned to the Holy Spirit's guidance and adaptable to the evolving global context.