Discipleship has been the main topic of conversation for the past decade (likely longer) within the church in the West. COVID has clearly highlighted the deficiencies many churches have in this area. I know for myself during the first lockdown in 2020 I felt deep insecurity, wondering, “How is the congregation being discipled?” This question then morphed into another, “Is the Sunday morning gathering the primary means of discipleship, and if so, is this right?”

Don’t get me wrong, Sunday morning gatherings are essential for discipleship. They help people establish a rhythm of faithful formation through being deeply entrenched in the story of Scripture, worshipping with others, and intentionally reflecting on how to be “in Christ” in the world. But it has become clear that societal pressures, changing ideologies, and shifting patterns of life require a new outlook and perspective shift on discipleship.

I am not writing this article as a way for me to prescribe what the WMCANZ ought to do regarding discipleship. Discipleship is a highly contextual topic that requires pastors to understand the needs of their congregations. This means that information must be gathered and different perspectives must be listened to, not to copy what others are doing, but as an aid to help reflect on one’s own context.

Here are some resources that helped me reflect on discipleship in my context.

“Rebuilders,” a podcast by Mark Sayers and Red Church in Melbourne, Australia. (Link)

“Canadian Church Leaders Podcast,” by the Canadian Church Leaders Network. (Link)

“Lunch on The Way,” a podcast with myself, Jonathan Hoskins, and Graeme Flett. (Link)

Desiring the Kingdom, a book by James K. A. Smith.

Surprise the World, a book by Michael Frost

By Rev. Joey Millington – East City Wesleyan Church