Depth over Breadth
The frustrating thing about walking with disciples into a deeper relationship with Jesus is simply the amount of time it takes. In my impatience, I want quick results in six weeks or less, reports of salvations, and church plants springing up in the most unusual places. What does Jesus' example show us about true discipleship? Twelve steady friends on mission, three of those men super close, and only one whom self-proclaimed he was "loved the best" (John 11:3, 5). It was not hundreds he poured into on a regular basis. In fact, we read that the hundreds who followed Jesus for a season rejected his toughest teachings and deserted him (John 6). Intellectually, we know discipling relationships need to have longevity. At least one year to go through a season of ups and downs together including birthdays, Christmas, and Easter. In this time, there are opportunities for all those in the relationship to grow and learn. Maybe even argue. This natural, seasonal tension creates char...
