Wells 1
Liberty Theological Seminary
Spheres and Stages of Discipleship Assignment
A Written Assignment
Submitted to Dr. Jay Sulfridge
In Partial Fulfillment
Of the Requirements for the Course
Discipleship Ministries
DSMN-500-B06-LUO
By:
Phil Wells
February 7, 2021
Table of Contents
Spheres & Stages of Discipleship Assignment
I. Analysis of Stages & Spheres of Discipleship Pg. 3
II. Where Am I In This Process? Pg. 5
Wells 2
III. Bonhoeffer and The Call to Discipleship Pg. 6
IV. Submission to Christ Pg. 7
Wells 3
Analysis of Stages & Spheres of Discipleship
This weekend, I was privileged to facilitate the logistics behind the baptisms of eight
individuals at my local campus! What’s exciting is many things within this process, but one of
the most thought-provoking questions when one is prepared to take this next step, is where I
ask the question, “When did Jesus become more than just a name to you?” I mean, really when
did Jesus become more than just a religious figure, a character found within some incredible
stories you’ve maybe heard about from somewhere or more than just the ‘big man upstairs’ or a
‘higher power’?
Dempsey & Earley help us pave the way towards a process to help guide us on what the
author of this assignment aims to accomplish which is thoughtfully analyze how one moves from
Believer, to Disciple and ultimately onto a Disciple Maker. Stage One is where we begin which is
all about Jesus. The first stage of discipleship is a call to investigate the person and work of Jesus.
Questions typically asked in this stage whether introspectively or else, are: (1) Is Jesus the
Messiah (2) Can He be trusted? (3) Does He merit an intense investigation and sincere pursuit?
And (4) Is He someone worth giving everything up for?
1
“The time promised by God has come at
last! he announced. The Kingdom of God is near! Repent of your sins and believe the Good News.”
2
The summation of this first step truly results in this alliteration of 4 key words, (1)
Curious (curious about who Jesus is and what He can do for you) (2) Convicted (Convicted by the
Holy Spirit of your sin and the resulting judgment) (3) Convinced that Jesus is the sinless So of
God and that salvation only comes through Him) (4) Converted (through active faith that leads
you to turn from sin and turn to God for salvation).
3
Stage two takes us towards one of the most
1
Earley, Dave, and Rod Dempsey. 2013. “Understanding The First Step of Obedience.” In
Disciple Making Is: How To Live The Great Commission With Passion And Confidence, 63.
Nashville, TN: Broadman & Holman.
2
Unless otherwise noted, all biblical passages referenced employ the New Living Translation by
Tyndale House Publishers.
3
Ibid., 66.
Wells 4
important formative components which is the immersion into Christian community or
Development. This stage once again aims to prove the point that we were not made to do life
alone, life is truly better together. Life is not meant to be lived as only “Jesus and me.” It is
meant to be lived as “Jesus and we.” No human can be complete without healthy relationships
with other humans. Community is what you and I were created for.
4
The third and final stage seeks to answer the question of the disciple, “are you a
multiplying leader?” In other words, are you seeking to make a difference with the purpose and
skillset God has uniquely equipped us with? Likening it to one of my most memorable stops in
ministry, this stage according to the author of this examination would say, Discover, Develop &
Deploy.
Putman & Harrington help us see how synonymous the Four Spheres of Discipleship are
with the Stages of Discipleship. The four spheres range from Relationships to the four key areas:
(1) Relationship with God (2) Relationship with the World (3) Relationship in the Home (4)
Relationships with Gods Family/Church). The core that obviously unites all of the spheres
together is our relationship with God. John 15 indicates that our most important sphere is that
of life in Christ.
The benefit of using the four spheres means that all of these can if done correctly
positively affect and change the believer under Christ’s control. Even as I speak of baptizing
eight individuals this weekend, I’m acutely aware as Putman & Harrington indicate of churches
making the dangerous conclusion of baptizing someone, handing them a bible and invite them
to come back next week. It’s empty, dangerous and typically that person never ends up
following through on that commitment having encountered a different world from off of their
spiritual pedestal. New believers need a pathway to follow and a model to indicate growth and
define purpose. If churches miss this, we as pastors will continue to see more spiritual
consumers rather than what we all seek which is spiritual contributors.
4
Ibid., 71.
Wells 5
Where Am I In This Process?
This examination of the spheres and stages of discipleship has forced me to identify
some difficult but helpful conclusions about my life. I consider myself a good leader in my
career, but
I’m constantly asking myself and my wife, “How am I doing at leading my family?” Recently, as
I lead a group of men through an online life Group, we’re working through a study by John
Eldredge titled, “Wild Life.” In the first couple days of the study, John asks us to identify our one
question about ourselves that we all as men have. Mine comes back to my family in brief
summary as, “Am I leading my family well” or, “Am I doing this right?”
The sphere of Relationships at Home is most identifiable to me at this time in my life
because of my love and affection for my wife of nearly twelve years and my two boys (ages 7
and 4). It is possible, writes Putman and Harrington to grasp the concepts of the gospel but fail
to apply them in the home.
5
In many ways, I get concerned about how I allow my emotions and desires to come into
abrupt conflict with me and my boys when situations get excessively difficult. Paul writes in
Ephesians 6:4, “Fathers, do not provoke your children to anger by the way you treat them.
Rather, bring them up with the discipline and instruction that comes from the Lord.” It’s possible
to grasp the concepts of the gospel but fail to apply them in the home. As a pastor, I’m
continuously reminded of a statement that rings true with me by a former pastor I worked
alongside in Craig Groeschel, “doing the work of God, destroyed the work of God in me.”
Bonhoeffer and The Call to Discipleship
Dietrich Bonhoeffer in his work, “Chapter Two: The Call to Discipleship” walks us through
variety of calls in which again, have unifying overtones of the spheres and stages of discipleship.
I find myself in need of further assistance, growth and submission in the Sphere of Relationship
5
Putman, Jim And Bobby Harrington. 2013. “The Four Spheres.” In DiscipleShift: Five Steps That
Help Your Church To Make Disciples Who Make Disciples, 87. Grand Rapids, MI:
Zondervan.
Wells 6
to God. As Bonhoeffer states, “he wants to follow” referring to the third one called by Jesus, but
he wants to set his own conditions for following. Discipleship is a possibility for him, whose
implementation requires fulfilling conditions and prerequisites.
6
Following Christ means taking
certain steps. The first step, which responds to the call, separates followers from their previous
existence.
7
I’ve found myself at multiple stopping points in my personal journey with Jesus simply
over double standards or contradictions in my leadership and correlating to my personal
discipline/devotion to Jesus. This could be tithing, consistent quiet time, etc. I set my own terms
but lead others a whole different path. This doesn’t work, it will never work and is in direct
violation with my ability to be formidable in the hands of God. “Those called, as Bonhoeffer
reads, must get out of their situations, in which they cannot believe, into a situation where faith
can begin.”
8
Submission to Christ
In submission to Christ, it is not a binding or a lesser distinction of freedom rather, it is
the opposite. It is in Jesus that we find our freedom as we engage with the four spheres and
stages of discipleship. Philippians 2:12-13 reads, “Work hard to show the results of your
salvation, obeying God with deep reverence and fear. For God is working in you, giving you the
desire and the power to do what pleases him.” Deep reverence and fear, when is the last time
you or I experienced fear and conviction brought by the Holy Spirit? Submission is indicative of
fear, in obedience it does, however, bring an aroma of freedom based on our actions of
repentance to Jesus.
As our character is formed, we relinquish all control and allow freedom to begin. Steven
6
Bonhoeffer, Dietrich. 2003. “The Call To Discipleship.” In Discipleship, edited by John D. Godsey
and Geoffrey B. Kelly, 61. Minneapolis, MN: Augsburg Fortress.
https://tcr1alexanderstreet-com.ezproxy.liberty.edu/philologic/TCRT/navigate/72/1/3/.
7
Ibid., 61.
8
Ibid., 62.
Wells 7
Porter writes in his work, Discipleship That Forms Christian Character,
“In order for us to remain with the one who remains with us, we must listen to his
commands, his words, his instructions on how to live life with him by his Spirit in his
Father’s kingdom. To study and listen to his word is itself a practice or discipline, and it is
an essential part of an overall way of life with Jesus. Indeed, as we practice that
discipline of study and meditation, we learn from him that there are other embodied
practices that bring our wills into alignment with his will.”
9
The third and final stage seeks to answer the question of the disciple, “are you a
multiplying leader?” In other words, are you seeking to make a difference with the purpose and
skillset God has uniquely equipped us with? Likening it to one of my most memorable stops in
ministry, this stage according to the author of this examination would say, Discover, Develop &
Deploy.
Putman & Harrington help us see how synonymous the Four Spheres of Discipleship are
with the Stages of Discipleship. The four spheres range from Relationships to the four key areas:
(1) Relationship with God (2) Relationship with the World (3) Relationship in the Home (4)
Relationships with Gods Family/Church). The core that obviously unites all of the spheres
together is our relationship with God. John 15 indicates that our most important sphere is that
of life in Christ.
The benefit of using the four spheres means that all of these can if done correctly
positively affect and change the believer under Christ’s control. Even as I speak of baptizing
eight individuals this weekend, I’m acutely aware as Putman & Harrington indicate of churches
making the dangerous conclusion of baptizing someone, handing them a bible and invite them
to come back next week. It’s empty, dangerous and typically that person never ends up
9
Porter, Steven L. "Will/Heart/Spirit: Discipleship that Forms the Christian Character."
Christian Education Journal 16, no. 1 (04, 2019): 79-94,
http://ezproxy.liberty.edu/login?qurl=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.proquest.com
%2Fscholarly-journals%2Fwill-heart-spirit-discipleship-that-forms%2Fdocview
%2F2184328075%2Fse-2%3Faccountid%3D12085.
Wells 8
following through on that commitment having encountered a different world from off of their
spiritual pedestal. New believers need a pathway to follow and a model to indicate growth and
define purpose. If churches miss this, we as pastors will continue to see more spiritual
consumers rather than what we all seek which is spiritual contributors.
Where Am I In This Process?
This examination of the spheres and stages of discipleship has forced me to identify
some difficult but helpful conclusions about my life. I consider myself a good leader in my
career, but
I’m constantly asking myself and my wife, “How am I doing at leading my family?” Recently, as
I lead a group of men through an online life Group, we’re working through a study by John
Eldredge titled, “Wild Life.” In the first couple days of the study, John asks us to identify our one
question about ourselves that we all as men have. Mine comes back to my family in brief
summary as, “Am I leading my family well” or, “Am I doing this right?”
The sphere of Relationships at Home is most identifiable to me at this time in my life
because of my love and affection for my wife of nearly twelve years and my two boys (ages 7
and 4). It is possible, writes Putman and Harrington to grasp the concepts of the gospel but fail
to apply them in the home.
10
In many ways, I get concerned about how I allow my emotions and desires to come into
abrupt conflict with me and my boys when situations get excessively difficult. Paul writes in
Ephesians 6:4, “Fathers, do not provoke your children to anger by the way you treat them.
Rather, bring them up with the discipline and instruction that comes from the Lord.” It’s possible
to grasp the concepts of the gospel but fail to apply them in the home. As a pastor, I’m
continuously reminded of a statement that rings true with me by a former pastor I worked
alongside in Craig Groeschel, “doing the work of God, destroyed the work of God in me.”
10
Putman, Jim And Bobby Harrington. 2013. “The Four Spheres.” In DiscipleShift: Five Steps That
Help Your Church To Make Disciples Who Make Disciples, 87. Grand Rapids, MI:
Zondervan.
Wells 9
Bonhoeffer and The Call to Discipleship
Dietrich Bonhoeffer in his work, “Chapter Two: The Call to Discipleship” walks us through
variety of calls in which again, have unifying overtones of the spheres and stages of discipleship.
I find myself in need of further assistance, growth and submission in the Sphere of Relationship
to God. As Bonhoeffer states, “he wants to follow” referring to the third one called by Jesus, but
he wants to set his own conditions for following. Discipleship is a possibility for him, whose
implementation requires fulfilling conditions and prerequisites.
11
Following Christ means taking
certain steps. The first step, which responds to the call, separates followers from their previous
existence.
12
I’ve found myself at multiple stopping points in my personal journey with Jesus simply
over double standards or contradictions in my leadership and correlating to my personal
discipline/devotion to Jesus. This could be tithing, consistent quiet time, etc. I set my own terms
but lead others a whole different path. This doesn’t work, it will never work and is in direct
violation with my ability to be formidable in the hands of God. “Those called, as Bonhoeffer
reads, must get out of their situations, in which they cannot believe, into a situation where faith
can begin.”
13
Submission to Christ
In submission to Christ, it is not a binding or a lesser distinction of freedom rather, it is
the opposite. It is in Jesus that we find our freedom as we engage with the four spheres and
stages of discipleship. Philippians 2:12-13 reads, “Work hard to show the results of your
salvation, obeying God with deep reverence and fear. For God is working in you, giving you the
desire and the power to do what pleases him.” Deep reverence and fear, when is the last time
11
Bonhoeffer, Dietrich. 2003. “The Call To Discipleship.” In Discipleship, edited by John D.
Godsey and Geoffrey B. Kelly, 61. Minneapolis, MN: Augsburg Fortress.
https://tcr1alexanderstreet-com.ezproxy.liberty.edu/philologic/TCRT/navigate/72/1/3/.
12
Ibid., 61.
13
Ibid., 62.
Wells 10
you or I experienced fear and conviction brought by the Holy Spirit? Submission is indicative of
fear, in obedience it does, however, bring an aroma of freedom based on our actions of
repentance to Jesus.
As our character is formed, we relinquish all control and allow freedom to begin. Steven
Porter writes in his work, Discipleship That Forms Christian Character,
“In order for us to remain with the one who remains with us, we must listen to his
commands, his words, his instructions on how to live life with him by his Spirit in his
Father’s kingdom. To study and listen to his word is itself a practice or discipline, and it is
an essential part of an overall way of life with Jesus. Indeed, as we practice that
discipline of study and meditation, we learn from him that there are other embodied
practices that bring our wills into alignment with his will.”
14
The third and final stage seeks to answer the question of the disciple, “are you a
multiplying leader?” In other words, are you seeking to make a difference with the purpose and
skillset God has uniquely equipped us with? Likening it to one of my most memorable stops in
ministry, this stage according to the author of this examination would say, Discover, Develop &
Deploy.
Putman & Harrington help us see how synonymous the Four Spheres of Discipleship are
with the Stages of Discipleship. The four spheres range from Relationships to the four key areas:
(1) Relationship with God (2) Relationship with the World (3) Relationship in the Home (4)
Relationships with Gods Family/Church). The core that obviously unites all of the spheres
together is our relationship with God. John 15 indicates that our most important sphere is that
of life in Christ.
14
Porter, Steven L. "Will/Heart/Spirit: Discipleship that Forms the Christian Character."
Christian Education Journal 16, no. 1 (04, 2019): 79-94,
http://ezproxy.liberty.edu/login?qurl=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.proquest.com
%2Fscholarly-journals%2Fwill-heart-spirit-discipleship-that-forms%2Fdocview
%2F2184328075%2Fse-2%3Faccountid%3D12085.
Wells 11
The benefit of using the four spheres means that all of these can if done correctly
positively affect and change the believer under Christ’s control. Even as I speak of baptizing
eight individuals this weekend, I’m acutely aware as Putman & Harrington indicate of churches
making the dangerous conclusion of baptizing someone, handing them a bible and invite them
to come back next week. It’s empty, dangerous and typically that person never ends up
following through on that commitment having encountered a different world from off of their
spiritual pedestal. New believers need a pathway to follow and a model to indicate growth and
define purpose. If churches miss this, we as pastors will continue to see more spiritual
consumers rather than what we all seek which is spiritual contributors.
Where Am I In This Process?
This examination of the spheres and stages of discipleship has forced me to identify
some difficult but helpful conclusions about my life. I consider myself a good leader in my
career, but
I’m constantly asking myself and my wife, “How am I doing at leading my family?” Recently, as
I lead a group of men through an online life Group, we’re working through a study by John
Eldredge titled, “Wild Life.” In the first couple days of the study, John asks us to identify our one
question about ourselves that we all as men have. Mine comes back to my family in brief
summary as, “Am I leading my family well” or, “Am I doing this right?”
The sphere of Relationships at Home is most identifiable to me at this time in my life
because of my love and affection for my wife of nearly twelve years and my two boys (ages 7
and 4). It is possible, writes Putman and Harrington to grasp the concepts of the gospel but fail
to apply them in the home.
15
15
Putman, Jim And Bobby Harrington. 2013. “The Four Spheres.” In DiscipleShift: Five Steps That
Help Your Church To Make Disciples Who Make Disciples, 87. Grand Rapids, MI:
Zondervan.
Wells 12
In many ways, I get concerned about how I allow my emotions and desires to come into
abrupt conflict with me and my boys when situations get excessively difficult. Paul writes in
Ephesians 6:4, “Fathers, do not provoke your children to anger by the way you treat them.
Rather, bring them up with the discipline and instruction that comes from the Lord.” It’s possible
to grasp the concepts of the gospel but fail to apply them in the home. As a pastor, I’m
continuously reminded of a statement that rings true with me by a former pastor I worked
alongside in Craig Groeschel, “doing the work of God, destroyed the work of God in me.”
Bonhoeffer and The Call to Discipleship
Dietrich Bonhoeffer in his work, “Chapter Two: The Call to Discipleship” walks us through
variety of calls in which again, have unifying overtones of the spheres and stages of discipleship.
I find myself in need of further assistance, growth and submission in the Sphere of Relationship
to God. As Bonhoeffer states, “he wants to follow” referring to the third one called by Jesus, but
he wants to set his own conditions for following. Discipleship is a possibility for him, whose
implementation requires fulfilling conditions and prerequisites.
16
Following Christ means taking
certain steps. The first step, which responds to the call, separates followers from their previous
existence.
17
I’ve found myself at multiple stopping points in my personal journey with Jesus simply
over double standards or contradictions in my leadership and correlating to my personal
discipline/devotion to Jesus. This could be tithing, consistent quiet time, etc. I set my own terms
but lead others a whole different path. This doesn’t work, it will never work and is in direct
violation with my ability to be formidable in the hands of God. “Those called, as Bonhoeffer
16
Bonhoeffer, Dietrich. 2003. “The Call To Discipleship.” In Discipleship, edited by John D.
Godsey and Geoffrey B. Kelly, 61. Minneapolis, MN: Augsburg Fortress.
https://tcr1alexanderstreet-com.ezproxy.liberty.edu/philologic/TCRT/navigate/72/1/3/.
17
Ibid., 61.
Wells 13
reads, must get out of their situations, in which they cannot believe, into a situation where faith
can begin.”
18
Submission to Christ
In submission to Christ, it is not a binding or a lesser distinction of freedom rather, it is
the opposite. It is in Jesus that we find our freedom as we engage with the four spheres and
stages of discipleship. Philippians 2:12-13 reads, “Work hard to show the results of your
salvation, obeying God with deep reverence and fear. For God is working in you, giving you the
desire and the power to do what pleases him.” Deep reverence and fear, when is the last time
you or I experienced fear and conviction brought by the Holy Spirit? Submission is indicative of
fear, in obedience it does, however, bring an aroma of freedom based on our actions of
repentance to Jesus.
As our character is formed, we relinquish all control and allow freedom to begin. Steven
Porter writes in his work, Discipleship That Forms Christian Character,
“In order for us to remain with the one who remains with us, we must listen to his
commands, his words, his instructions on how to live life with him by his Spirit in his
Father’s kingdom. To study and listen to his word is itself a practice or discipline, and it is
an essential part of an overall way of life with Jesus. Indeed, as we practice that
discipline of study and meditation, we learn from him that there are other embodied
practices that bring our wills into alignment with his will.”
19
The third and final stage seeks to answer the question of the disciple, “are you a
multiplying leader?” In other words, are you seeking to make a difference with the purpose and
skillset God has uniquely equipped us with? Likening it to one of my most memorable stops in
18
Ibid., 62.
19
Porter, Steven L. "Will/Heart/Spirit: Discipleship that Forms the Christian Character."
Christian Education Journal 16, no. 1 (04, 2019): 79-94,
http://ezproxy.liberty.edu/login?qurl=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.proquest.com
%2Fscholarly-journals%2Fwill-heart-spirit-discipleship-that-forms%2Fdocview
%2F2184328075%2Fse-2%3Faccountid%3D12085.
Wells 14
ministry, this stage according to the author of this examination would say, Discover, Develop &
Deploy.
Putman & Harrington help us see how synonymous the Four Spheres of Discipleship are
with the Stages of Discipleship. The four spheres range from Relationships to the four key areas:
(1) Relationship with God (2) Relationship with the World (3) Relationship in the Home (4)
Relationships with Gods Family/Church). The core that obviously unites all of the spheres
together is our relationship with God. John 15 indicates that our most important sphere is that
of life in Christ.
The benefit of using the four spheres means that all of these can if done correctly
positively affect and change the believer under Christ’s control. Even as I speak of baptizing
eight individuals this weekend, I’m acutely aware as Putman & Harrington indicate of churches
making the dangerous conclusion of baptizing someone, handing them a bible and invite them
to come back next week. It’s empty, dangerous and typically that person never ends up
following through on that commitment having encountered a different world from off of their
spiritual pedestal. New believers need a pathway to follow and a model to indicate growth and
define purpose. If churches miss this, we as pastors will continue to see more spiritual
consumers rather than what we all seek which is spiritual contributors.
Where Am I In This Process?
This examination of the spheres and stages of discipleship has forced me to identify
some difficult but helpful conclusions about my life. I consider myself a good leader in my
career, but
I’m constantly asking myself and my wife, “How am I doing at leading my family?” Recently, as
I lead a group of men through an online life Group, we’re working through a study by John
Eldredge titled, “Wild Life.” In the first couple days of the study, John asks us to identify our one
question about ourselves that we all as men have. Mine comes back to my family in brief
summary as, “Am I leading my family well” or, “Am I doing this right?”
Wells 15
The sphere of Relationships at Home is most identifiable to me at this time in my life
because of my love and affection for my wife of nearly twelve years and my two boys (ages 7
and 4). It is possible, writes Putman and Harrington to grasp the concepts of the gospel but fail
to apply them in the home.
20
In many ways, I get concerned about how I allow my emotions and desires to come into
abrupt conflict with me and my boys when situations get excessively difficult. Paul writes in
Ephesians 6:4, “Fathers, do not provoke your children to anger by the way you treat them.
Rather, bring them up with the discipline and instruction that comes from the Lord.” It’s possible
to grasp the concepts of the gospel but fail to apply them in the home. As a pastor, I’m
continuously reminded of a statement that rings true with me by a former pastor I worked
alongside in Craig Groeschel, “doing the work of God, destroyed the work of God in me.”
Bonhoeffer and The Call to Discipleship
Dietrich Bonhoeffer in his work, “Chapter Two: The Call to Discipleship” walks us through
variety of calls in which again, have unifying overtones of the spheres and stages of discipleship.
I find myself in need of further assistance, growth and submission in the Sphere of Relationship
to God. As Bonhoeffer states, “he wants to follow” referring to the third one called by Jesus, but
he wants to set his own conditions for following. Discipleship is a possibility for him, whose
implementation requires fulfilling conditions and prerequisites.
21
Following Christ means taking
certain steps. The first step, which responds to the call, separates followers from their previous
existence.
22
20
Putman, Jim And Bobby Harrington. 2013. “The Four Spheres.” In DiscipleShift: Five Steps That
Help Your Church To Make Disciples Who Make Disciples, 87. Grand Rapids, MI:
Zondervan.
21
Bonhoeffer, Dietrich. 2003. “The Call To Discipleship.” In Discipleship, edited by John D.
Godsey and Geoffrey B. Kelly, 61. Minneapolis, MN: Augsburg Fortress.
https://tcr1alexanderstreet-com.ezproxy.liberty.edu/philologic/TCRT/navigate/72/1/3/.
22
Ibid., 61.
Wells 16
I’ve found myself at multiple stopping points in my personal journey with Jesus simply
over double standards or contradictions in my leadership and correlating to my personal
discipline/devotion to Jesus. This could be tithing, consistent quiet time, etc. I set my own terms
but lead others a whole different path. This doesn’t work, it will never work and is in direct
violation with my ability to be formidable in the hands of God. “Those called, as Bonhoeffer
reads, must get out of their situations, in which they cannot believe, into a situation where faith
can begin.”
23
Submission to Christ
In submission to Christ, it is not a binding or a lesser distinction of freedom rather, it is
the opposite. It is in Jesus that we find our freedom as we engage with the four spheres and
stages of discipleship. Philippians 2:12-13 reads, “Work hard to show the results of your
salvation, obeying God with deep reverence and fear. For God is working in you, giving you the
desire and the power to do what pleases him.” Deep reverence and fear, when is the last time
you or I experienced fear and conviction brought by the Holy Spirit? Submission is indicative of
fear, in obedience it does, however, bring an aroma of freedom based on our actions of
repentance to Jesus.
As our character is formed, we relinquish all control and allow freedom to begin. Steven
Porter writes in his work, Discipleship That Forms Christian Character,
“In order for us to remain with the one who remains with us, we must listen to his
commands, his words, his instructions on how to live life with him by his Spirit in his
Father’s kingdom. To study and listen to his word is itself a practice or discipline, and it is
an essential part of an overall way of life with Jesus. Indeed, as we practice that
discipline of study and meditation, we learn from him that there are other embodied
practices that bring our wills into alignment with his will.”
24
23
Ibid., 62.
24
Porter, Steven L. "Will/Heart/Spirit: Discipleship that Forms the Christian Character."
Christian Education Journal 16, no. 1 (04, 2019): 79-94,
Wells 17
The third and final stage seeks to answer the question of the disciple, “are you a
multiplying leader?” In other words, are you seeking to make a difference with the purpose and
skillset God has uniquely equipped us with? Likening it to one of my most memorable stops in
ministry, this stage according to the author of this examination would say, Discover, Develop &
Deploy.
Putman & Harrington help us see how synonymous the Four Spheres of Discipleship are
with the Stages of Discipleship. The four spheres range from Relationships to the four key areas:
(1) Relationship with God (2) Relationship with the World (3) Relationship in the Home (4)
Relationships with Gods Family/Church). The core that obviously unites all of the spheres
together is our relationship with God. John 15 indicates that our most important sphere is that
of life in Christ.
The benefit of using the four spheres means that all of these can if done correctly
positively affect and change the believer under Christ’s control. Even as I speak of baptizing
eight individuals this weekend, I’m acutely aware as Putman & Harrington indicate of churches
making the dangerous conclusion of baptizing someone, handing them a bible and invite them
to come back next week. It’s empty, dangerous and typically that person never ends up
following through on that commitment having encountered a different world from off of their
spiritual pedestal. New believers need a pathway to follow and a model to indicate growth and
define purpose. If churches miss this, we as pastors will continue to see more spiritual
consumers rather than what we all seek which is spiritual contributors.
Where Am I In This Process?
This examination of the spheres and stages of discipleship has forced me to identify
some difficult but helpful conclusions about my life. I consider myself a good leader in my
career, but
http://ezproxy.liberty.edu/login?qurl=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.proquest.com
%2Fscholarly-journals%2Fwill-heart-spirit-discipleship-that-forms%2Fdocview
%2F2184328075%2Fse-2%3Faccountid%3D12085.
Wells 18
I’m constantly asking myself and my wife, “How am I doing at leading my family?” Recently, as
I lead a group of men through an online life Group, we’re working through a study by John
Eldredge titled, “Wild Life.” In the first couple days of the study, John asks us to identify our one
question about ourselves that we all as men have. Mine comes back to my family in brief
summary as, “Am I leading my family well” or, “Am I doing this right?”
The sphere of Relationships at Home is most identifiable to me at this time in my life
because of my love and affection for my wife of nearly twelve years and my two boys (ages 7
and 4). It is possible, writes Putman and Harrington to grasp the concepts of the gospel but fail
to apply them in the home.
25
In many ways, I get concerned about how I allow my emotions and desires to come into
abrupt conflict with me and my boys when situations get excessively difficult. Paul writes in
Ephesians 6:4, “Fathers, do not provoke your children to anger by the way you treat them.
Rather, bring them up with the discipline and instruction that comes from the Lord.” It’s possible
to grasp the concepts of the gospel but fail to apply them in the home. As a pastor, I’m
continuously reminded of a statement that rings true with me by a former pastor I worked
alongside in Craig Groeschel, “doing the work of God, destroyed the work of God in me.”
Bonhoeffer and The Call to Discipleship
Dietrich Bonhoeffer in his work, “Chapter Two: The Call to Discipleship” walks us through
variety of calls in which again, have unifying overtones of the spheres and stages of discipleship.
I find myself in need of further assistance, growth and submission in the Sphere of Relationship
to God. As Bonhoeffer states, “he wants to follow” referring to the third one called by Jesus, but
he wants to set his own conditions for following. Discipleship is a possibility for him, whose
25
Putman, Jim And Bobby Harrington. 2013. “The Four Spheres.” In DiscipleShift: Five Steps That
Help Your Church To Make Disciples Who Make Disciples, 87. Grand Rapids, MI:
Zondervan.
Wells 19
implementation requires fulfilling conditions and prerequisites.
26
Following Christ means taking
certain steps. The first step, which responds to the call, separates followers from their previous
existence.
27
I’ve found myself at multiple stopping points in my personal journey with Jesus simply
over double standards or contradictions in my leadership and correlating to my personal
discipline/devotion to Jesus. This could be tithing, consistent quiet time, etc. I set my own terms
but lead others a whole different path. This doesn’t work, it will never work and is in direct
violation with my ability to be formidable in the hands of God. “Those called, as Bonhoeffer
reads, must get out of their situations, in which they cannot believe, into a situation where faith
can begin.”
28
Submission to Christ
In submission to Christ, it is not a binding or a lesser distinction of freedom rather, it is
the opposite. It is in Jesus that we find our freedom as we engage with the four spheres and
stages of discipleship. Philippians 2:12-13 reads, “Work hard to show the results of your
salvation, obeying God with deep reverence and fear. For God is working in you, giving you the
desire and the power to do what pleases him.” Deep reverence and fear, when is the last time
you or I experienced fear and conviction brought by the Holy Spirit? Submission is indicative of
fear, in obedience it does, however, bring an aroma of freedom based on our actions of
repentance to Jesus.
As our character is formed, we relinquish all control and allow freedom to begin. Steven
Porter writes in his work, Discipleship That Forms Christian Character,
26
Bonhoeffer, Dietrich. 2003. “The Call To Discipleship.” In Discipleship, edited by John D.
Godsey and Geoffrey B. Kelly, 61. Minneapolis, MN: Augsburg Fortress.
https://tcr1alexanderstreet-com.ezproxy.liberty.edu/philologic/TCRT/navigate/72/1/3/.
27
Ibid., 61.
28
Ibid., 62.
Wells 20
“In order for us to remain with the one who remains with us, we must listen to his
commands, his words, his instructions on how to live life with him by his Spirit in his
Father’s kingdom. To study and listen to his word is itself a practice or discipline, and it is
an essential part of an overall way of life with Jesus. Indeed, as we practice that
discipline of study and meditation, we learn from him that there are other embodied
practices that bring our wills into alignment with his will.”
29
The third and final stage seeks to answer the question of the disciple, “are you a
multiplying leader?” In other words, are you seeking to make a difference with the purpose and
skillset God has uniquely equipped us with? Likening it to one of my most memorable stops in
ministry, this stage according to the author of this examination would say, Discover, Develop &
Deploy.
Putman & Harrington help us see how synonymous the Four Spheres of Discipleship are
with the Stages of Discipleship. The four spheres range from Relationships to the four key areas:
(1) Relationship with God (2) Relationship with the World (3) Relationship in the Home (4)
Relationships with Gods Family/Church). The core that obviously unites all of the spheres
together is our relationship with God. John 15 indicates that our most important sphere is that
of life in Christ.
The benefit of using the four spheres means that all of these can if done correctly
positively affect and change the believer under Christ’s control. Even as I speak of baptizing
eight individuals this weekend, I’m acutely aware as Putman & Harrington indicate of churches
making the dangerous conclusion of baptizing someone, handing them a bible and invite them
to come back next week. It’s empty, dangerous and typically that person never ends up
following through on that commitment having encountered a different world from off of their
29
Porter, Steven L. "Will/Heart/Spirit: Discipleship that Forms the Christian Character."
Christian Education Journal 16, no. 1 (04, 2019): 79-94,
http://ezproxy.liberty.edu/login?qurl=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.proquest.com
%2Fscholarly-journals%2Fwill-heart-spirit-discipleship-that-forms%2Fdocview
%2F2184328075%2Fse-2%3Faccountid%3D12085.
Wells 21
spiritual pedestal. New believers need a pathway to follow and a model to indicate growth and
define purpose. If churches miss this, we as pastors will continue to see more spiritual
consumers rather than what we all seek which is spiritual contributors.
Where Am I In This Process?
This examination of the spheres and stages of discipleship has forced me to identify
some difficult but helpful conclusions about my life. I consider myself a good leader in my
career, but
I’m constantly asking myself and my wife, “How am I doing at leading my family?” Recently, as
I lead a group of men through an online life Group, we’re working through a study by John
Eldredge titled, “Wild Life.” In the first couple days of the study, John asks us to identify our one
question about ourselves that we all as men have. Mine comes back to my family in brief
summary as, “Am I leading my family well” or, “Am I doing this right?”
The sphere of Relationships at Home is most identifiable to me at this time in my life
because of my love and affection for my wife of nearly twelve years and my two boys (ages 7
and 4). It is possible, writes Putman and Harrington to grasp the concepts of the gospel but fail
to apply them in the home.
30
In many ways, I get concerned about how I allow my emotions and desires to come into
abrupt conflict with me and my boys when situations get excessively difficult. Paul writes in
Ephesians 6:4, “Fathers, do not provoke your children to anger by the way you treat them.
Rather, bring them up with the discipline and instruction that comes from the Lord.” It’s possible
to grasp the concepts of the gospel but fail to apply them in the home. As a pastor, I’m
continuously reminded of a statement that rings true with me by a former pastor I worked
alongside in Craig Groeschel, “doing the work of God, destroyed the work of God in me.”
30
Putman, Jim And Bobby Harrington. 2013. “The Four Spheres.” In DiscipleShift: Five Steps That
Help Your Church To Make Disciples Who Make Disciples, 87. Grand Rapids, MI:
Zondervan.
Wells 22
Bonhoeffer and The Call to Discipleship
Dietrich Bonhoeffer in his work, “Chapter Two: The Call to Discipleship” walks us through
variety of calls in which again, have unifying overtones of the spheres and stages of discipleship.
I find myself in need of further assistance, growth and submission in the Sphere of Relationship
to God. As Bonhoeffer states, “he wants to follow” referring to the third one called by Jesus, but
he wants to set his own conditions for following. Discipleship is a possibility for him, whose
implementation requires fulfilling conditions and prerequisites.
31
Following Christ means taking
certain steps. The first step, which responds to the call, separates followers from their previous
existence.
32
I’ve found myself at multiple stopping points in my personal journey with Jesus simply
over double standards or contradictions in my leadership and correlating to my personal
discipline/devotion to Jesus. This could be tithing, consistent quiet time, etc. I set my own terms
but lead others a whole different path. This doesn’t work, it will never work and is in direct
violation with my ability to be formidable in the hands of God. “Those called, as Bonhoeffer
reads, must get out of their situations, in which they cannot believe, into a situation where faith
can begin.”
33
Submission to Christ
In submission to Christ, it is not a binding or a lesser distinction of freedom rather, it is
the opposite. It is in Jesus that we find our freedom as we engage with the four spheres and
stages of discipleship. Philippians 2:12-13 reads, “Work hard to show the results of your
salvation, obeying God with deep reverence and fear. For God is working in you, giving you the
desire and the power to do what pleases him.” Deep reverence and fear, when is the last time
31
Bonhoeffer, Dietrich. 2003. “The Call To Discipleship.” In Discipleship, edited by John D.
Godsey and Geoffrey B. Kelly, 61. Minneapolis, MN: Augsburg Fortress.
https://tcr1alexanderstreet-com.ezproxy.liberty.edu/philologic/TCRT/navigate/72/1/3/.
32
Ibid., 61.
33
Ibid., 62.
Wells 23
you or I experienced fear and conviction brought by the Holy Spirit? Submission is indicative of
fear, in obedience it does, however, bring an aroma of freedom based on our actions of
repentance to Jesus.
As our character is formed, we relinquish all control and allow freedom to begin. Steven
Porter writes in his work, Discipleship That Forms Christian Character,
“In order for us to remain with the one who remains with us, we must listen to his
commands, his words, his instructions on how to live life with him by his Spirit in his
Father’s kingdom. To study and listen to his word is itself a practice or discipline, and it is
an essential part of an overall way of life with Jesus. Indeed, as we practice that
discipline of study and meditation, we learn from him that there are other embodied
practices that bring our wills into alignment with his will.”
34
The third and final stage seeks to answer the question of the disciple, “are you a
multiplying leader?” In other words, are you seeking to make a difference with the purpose and
skillset God has uniquely equipped us with? Likening it to one of my most memorable stops in
ministry, this stage according to the author of this examination would say, Discover, Develop &
Deploy.
Putman & Harrington help us see how synonymous the Four Spheres of Discipleship are
with the Stages of Discipleship. The four spheres range from Relationships to the four key areas:
(1) Relationship with God (2) Relationship with the World (3) Relationship in the Home (4)
Relationships with Gods Family/Church). The core that obviously unites all of the spheres
together is our relationship with God. John 15 indicates that our most important sphere is that
of life in Christ.
34
Porter, Steven L. "Will/Heart/Spirit: Discipleship that Forms the Christian Character."
Christian Education Journal 16, no. 1 (04, 2019): 79-94,
http://ezproxy.liberty.edu/login?qurl=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.proquest.com
%2Fscholarly-journals%2Fwill-heart-spirit-discipleship-that-forms%2Fdocview
%2F2184328075%2Fse-2%3Faccountid%3D12085.
Wells 24
The benefit of using the four spheres means that all of these can if done correctly
positively affect and change the believer under Christ’s control. Even as I speak of baptizing
eight individuals this weekend, I’m acutely aware as Putman & Harrington indicate of churches
making the dangerous conclusion of baptizing someone, handing them a bible and invite them
to come back next week. It’s empty, dangerous and typically that person never ends up
following through on that commitment having encountered a different world from off of their
spiritual pedestal. New believers need a pathway to follow and a model to indicate growth and
define purpose. If churches miss this, we as pastors will continue to see more spiritual
consumers rather than what we all seek which is spiritual contributors.
Where Am I In This Process?
This examination of the spheres and stages of discipleship has forced me to identify
some difficult but helpful conclusions about my life. I consider myself a good leader in my
career, but
I’m constantly asking myself and my wife, “How am I doing at leading my family?” Recently, as
I lead a group of men through an online life Group, we’re working through a study by John
Eldredge titled, “Wild Life.” In the first couple days of the study, John asks us to identify our one
question about ourselves that we all as men have. Mine comes back to my family in brief
summary as, “Am I leading my family well” or, “Am I doing this right?”
The sphere of Relationships at Home is most identifiable to me at this time in my life
because of my love and affection for my wife of nearly twelve years and my two boys (ages 7
and 4). It is possible, writes Putman and Harrington to grasp the concepts of the gospel but fail
to apply them in the home.
35
35
Putman, Jim And Bobby Harrington. 2013. “The Four Spheres.” In DiscipleShift: Five Steps That
Help Your Church To Make Disciples Who Make Disciples, 87. Grand Rapids, MI:
Zondervan.
Wells 25
In many ways, I get concerned about how I allow my emotions and desires to come into
abrupt conflict with me and my boys when situations get excessively difficult. Paul writes in
Ephesians 6:4, “Fathers, do not provoke your children to anger by the way you treat them.
Rather, bring them up with the discipline and instruction that comes from the Lord.” It’s possible
to grasp the concepts of the gospel but fail to apply them in the home. As a pastor, I’m
continuously reminded of a statement that rings true with me by a former pastor I worked
alongside in Craig Groeschel, “doing the work of God, destroyed the work of God in me.”
Bonhoeffer and The Call to Discipleship
Dietrich Bonhoeffer in his work, “Chapter Two: The Call to Discipleship” walks us through
variety of calls in which again, have unifying overtones of the spheres and stages of discipleship.
I find myself in need of further assistance, growth and submission in the Sphere of Relationship
to God. As Bonhoeffer states, “he wants to follow” referring to the third one called by Jesus, but
he wants to set his own conditions for following. Discipleship is a possibility for him, whose
implementation requires fulfilling conditions and prerequisites.
36
Following Christ means taking
certain steps. The first step, which responds to the call, separates followers from their previous
existence.
37
I’ve found myself at multiple stopping points in my personal journey with Jesus simply
over double standards or contradictions in my leadership and correlating to my personal
discipline/devotion to Jesus. This could be tithing, consistent quiet time, etc. I set my own terms
but lead others a whole different path. This doesn’t work, it will never work and is in direct
violation with my ability to be formidable in the hands of God. “Those called, as Bonhoeffer
36
Bonhoeffer, Dietrich. 2003. “The Call To Discipleship.” In Discipleship, edited by John D.
Godsey and Geoffrey B. Kelly, 61. Minneapolis, MN: Augsburg Fortress.
https://tcr1alexanderstreet-com.ezproxy.liberty.edu/philologic/TCRT/navigate/72/1/3/.
37
Ibid., 61.
Wells 26
reads, must get out of their situations, in which they cannot believe, into a situation where faith
can begin.”
38
Submission to Christ
In submission to Christ, it is not a binding or a lesser distinction of freedom rather, it is
the opposite. It is in Jesus that we find our freedom as we engage with the four spheres and
stages of discipleship. Philippians 2:12-13 reads, “Work hard to show the results of your
salvation, obeying God with deep reverence and fear. For God is working in you, giving you the
desire and the power to do what pleases him.” Deep reverence and fear, when is the last time
you or I experienced fear and conviction brought by the Holy Spirit? Submission is indicative of
fear, in obedience it does, however, bring an aroma of freedom based on our actions of
repentance to Jesus.
As our character is formed, we relinquish all control and allow freedom to begin. Steven
Porter writes in his work, Discipleship That Forms Christian Character,
“In order for us to remain with the one who remains with us, we must listen to his
commands, his words, his instructions on how to live life with him by his Spirit in his
Father’s kingdom. To study and listen to his word is itself a practice or discipline, and it is
an essential part of an overall way of life with Jesus. Indeed, as we practice that
discipline of study and meditation, we learn from him that there are other embodied
practices that bring our wills into alignment with his will.”
39
The third and final stage seeks to answer the question of the disciple, “are you a
multiplying leader?” In other words, are you seeking to make a difference with the purpose and
skillset God has uniquely equipped us with? Likening it to one of my most memorable stops in
38
Ibid., 62.
39
Porter, Steven L. "Will/Heart/Spirit: Discipleship that Forms the Christian Character."
Christian Education Journal 16, no. 1 (04, 2019): 79-94,
http://ezproxy.liberty.edu/login?qurl=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.proquest.com
%2Fscholarly-journals%2Fwill-heart-spirit-discipleship-that-forms%2Fdocview
%2F2184328075%2Fse-2%3Faccountid%3D12085.
Wells 27
ministry, this stage according to the author of this examination would say, Discover, Develop &
Deploy.
Putman & Harrington help us see how synonymous the Four Spheres of Discipleship are
with the Stages of Discipleship. The four spheres range from Relationships to the four key areas:
(1) Relationship with God (2) Relationship with the World (3) Relationship in the Home (4)
Relationships with Gods Family/Church). The core that obviously unites all of the spheres
together is our relationship with God. John 15 indicates that our most important sphere is that
of life in Christ.
The benefit of using the four spheres means that all of these can if done correctly
positively affect and change the believer under Christ’s control. Even as I speak of baptizing
eight individuals this weekend, I’m acutely aware as Putman & Harrington indicate of churches
making the dangerous conclusion of baptizing someone, handing them a bible and invite them
to come back next week. It’s empty, dangerous and typically that person never ends up
following through on that commitment having encountered a different world from off of their
spiritual pedestal. New believers need a pathway to follow and a model to indicate growth and
define purpose. If churches miss this, we as pastors will continue to see more spiritual
consumers rather than what we all seek which is spiritual contributors.
Where Am I In This Process?
This examination of the spheres and stages of discipleship has forced me to identify
some difficult but helpful conclusions about my life. I consider myself a good leader in my
career, but
I’m constantly asking myself and my wife, “How am I doing at leading my family?” Recently, as
I lead a group of men through an online life Group, we’re working through a study by John
Eldredge titled, “Wild Life.” In the first couple days of the study, John asks us to identify our one
question about ourselves that we all as men have. Mine comes back to my family in brief
summary as, “Am I leading my family well” or, “Am I doing this right?”
Wells 28
The sphere of Relationships at Home is most identifiable to me at this time in my life
because of my love and affection for my wife of nearly twelve years and my two boys (ages 7
and 4). It is possible, writes Putman and Harrington to grasp the concepts of the gospel but fail
to apply them in the home.
40
In many ways, I get concerned about how I allow my emotions and desires to come into
abrupt conflict with me and my boys when situations get excessively difficult. Paul writes in
Ephesians 6:4, “Fathers, do not provoke your children to anger by the way you treat them.
Rather, bring them up with the discipline and instruction that comes from the Lord.” It’s possible
to grasp the concepts of the gospel but fail to apply them in the home. As a pastor, I’m
continuously reminded of a statement that rings true with me by a former pastor I worked
alongside in Craig Groeschel, “doing the work of God, destroyed the work of God in me.”
Bonhoeffer and The Call to Discipleship
Dietrich Bonhoeffer in his work, “Chapter Two: The Call to Discipleship” walks us through
variety of calls in which again, have unifying overtones of the spheres and stages of discipleship.
I find myself in need of further assistance, growth and submission in the Sphere of Relationship
to God. As Bonhoeffer states, “he wants to follow” referring to the third one called by Jesus, but
he wants to set his own conditions for following. Discipleship is a possibility for him, whose
implementation requires fulfilling conditions and prerequisites.
41
Following Christ means taking
certain steps. The first step, which responds to the call, separates followers from their previous
existence.
42
40
Putman, Jim And Bobby Harrington. 2013. “The Four Spheres.” In DiscipleShift: Five Steps That
Help Your Church To Make Disciples Who Make Disciples, 87. Grand Rapids, MI:
Zondervan.
41
Bonhoeffer, Dietrich. 2003. “The Call To Discipleship.” In Discipleship, edited by John D.
Godsey and Geoffrey B. Kelly, 61. Minneapolis, MN: Augsburg Fortress.
https://tcr1alexanderstreet-com.ezproxy.liberty.edu/philologic/TCRT/navigate/72/1/3/.
42
Ibid., 61.
Wells 29
I’ve found myself at multiple stopping points in my personal journey with Jesus simply
over double standards or contradictions in my leadership and correlating to my personal
discipline/devotion to Jesus. This could be tithing, consistent quiet time, etc. I set my own terms
but lead others a whole different path. This doesn’t work, it will never work and is in direct
violation with my ability to be formidable in the hands of God. “Those called, as Bonhoeffer
reads, must get out of their situations, in which they cannot believe, into a situation where faith
can begin.”
43
Submission to Christ
In submission to Christ, it is not a binding or a lesser distinction of freedom rather, it is
the opposite. It is in Jesus that we find our freedom as we engage with the four spheres and
stages of discipleship. Philippians 2:12-13 reads, “Work hard to show the results of your
salvation, obeying God with deep reverence and fear. For God is working in you, giving you the
desire and the power to do what pleases him.” Deep reverence and fear, when is the last time
you or I experienced fear and conviction brought by the Holy Spirit? Submission is indicative of
fear, in obedience it does, however, bring an aroma of freedom based on our actions of
repentance to Jesus.
As our character is formed, we relinquish all control and allow freedom to begin. Steven
Porter writes in his work, Discipleship That Forms Christian Character,
“In order for us to remain with the one who remains with us, we must listen to his
commands, his words, his instructions on how to live life with him by his Spirit in his
Father’s kingdom. To study and listen to his word is itself a practice or discipline, and it is
an essential part of an overall way of life with Jesus. Indeed, as we practice that
discipline of study and meditation, we learn from him that there are other embodied
practices that bring our wills into alignment with his will.”
44
43
Ibid., 62.
44
Porter, Steven L. "Will/Heart/Spirit: Discipleship that Forms the Christian Character."
Christian Education Journal 16, no. 1 (04, 2019): 79-94,
Wells 30
The third and final stage seeks to answer the question of the disciple, “are you a
multiplying leader?” In other words, are you seeking to make a difference with the purpose and
skillset God has uniquely equipped us with? Likening it to one of my most memorable stops in
ministry, this stage according to the author of this examination would say, Discover, Develop &
Deploy.
Putman & Harrington help us see how synonymous the Four Spheres of Discipleship are
with the Stages of Discipleship. The four spheres range from Relationships to the four key areas:
(1) Relationship with God (2) Relationship with the World (3) Relationship in the Home (4)
Relationships with Gods Family/Church). The core that obviously unites all of the spheres
together is our relationship with God. John 15 indicates that our most important sphere is that
of life in Christ.
The benefit of using the four spheres means that all of these can if done correctly
positively affect and change the believer under Christ’s control. Even as I speak of baptizing
eight individuals this weekend, I’m acutely aware as Putman & Harrington indicate of churches
making the dangerous conclusion of baptizing someone, handing them a bible and invite them
to come back next week. It’s empty, dangerous and typically that person never ends up
following through on that commitment having encountered a different world from off of their
spiritual pedestal. New believers need a pathway to follow and a model to indicate growth and
define purpose. If churches miss this, we as pastors will continue to see more spiritual
consumers rather than what we all seek which is spiritual contributors.
Where Am I In This Process?
This examination of the spheres and stages of discipleship has forced me to identify
some difficult but helpful conclusions about my life. I consider myself a good leader in my
career, but
http://ezproxy.liberty.edu/login?qurl=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.proquest.com
%2Fscholarly-journals%2Fwill-heart-spirit-discipleship-that-forms%2Fdocview
%2F2184328075%2Fse-2%3Faccountid%3D12085.
Wells 31
I’m constantly asking myself and my wife, “How am I doing at leading my family?” Recently, as
I lead a group of men through an online life Group, we’re working through a study by John
Eldredge titled, “Wild Life.” In the first couple days of the study, John asks us to identify our one
question about ourselves that we all as men have. Mine comes back to my family in brief
summary as, “Am I leading my family well” or, “Am I doing this right?”
The sphere of Relationships at Home is most identifiable to me at this time in my life
because of my love and affection for my wife of nearly twelve years and my two boys (ages 7
and 4). It is possible, writes Putman and Harrington to grasp the concepts of the gospel but fail
to apply them in the home.
45
In many ways, I get concerned about how I allow my emotions and desires to come into
abrupt conflict with me and my boys when situations get excessively difficult. Paul writes in
Ephesians 6:4, “Fathers, do not provoke your children to anger by the way you treat them.
Rather, bring them up with the discipline and instruction that comes from the Lord.” It’s possible
to grasp the concepts of the gospel but fail to apply them in the home. As a pastor, I’m
continuously reminded of a statement that rings true with me by a former pastor I worked
alongside in Craig Groeschel, “doing the work of God, destroyed the work of God in me.”
Bonhoeffer and The Call to Discipleship
Dietrich Bonhoeffer in his work, “Chapter Two: The Call to Discipleship” walks us through
variety of calls in which again, have unifying overtones of the spheres and stages of discipleship.
I find myself in need of further assistance, growth and submission in the Sphere of Relationship
to God. As Bonhoeffer states, “he wants to follow” referring to the third one called by Jesus, but
he wants to set his own conditions for following. Discipleship is a possibility for him, whose
45
Putman, Jim And Bobby Harrington. 2013. “The Four Spheres.” In DiscipleShift: Five Steps That
Help Your Church To Make Disciples Who Make Disciples, 87. Grand Rapids, MI:
Zondervan.
Wells 32
implementation requires fulfilling conditions and prerequisites.
46
Following Christ means taking
certain steps. The first step, which responds to the call, separates followers from their previous
existence.
47
I’ve found myself at multiple stopping points in my personal journey with Jesus simply
over double standards or contradictions in my leadership and correlating to my personal
discipline/devotion to Jesus. This could be tithing, consistent quiet time, etc. I set my own terms
but lead others a whole different path. This doesn’t work, it will never work and is in direct
violation with my ability to be formidable in the hands of God. “Those called, as Bonhoeffer
reads, must get out of their situations, in which they cannot believe, into a situation where faith
can begin.”
48
Submission to Christ
In submission to Christ, it is not a binding or a lesser distinction of freedom rather, it is
the opposite. It is in Jesus that we find our freedom as we engage with the four spheres and
stages of discipleship. Philippians 2:12-13 reads, “Work hard to show the results of your
salvation, obeying God with deep reverence and fear. For God is working in you, giving you the
desire and the power to do what pleases him.” Deep reverence and fear, when is the last time
you or I experienced fear and conviction brought by the Holy Spirit? Submission is indicative of
fear, in obedience it does, however, bring an aroma of freedom based on our actions of
repentance to Jesus.
As our character is formed, we relinquish all control and allow freedom to begin. Steven
Porter writes in his work, Discipleship That Forms Christian Character,
46
Bonhoeffer, Dietrich. 2003. “The Call To Discipleship.” In Discipleship, edited by John D.
Godsey and Geoffrey B. Kelly, 61. Minneapolis, MN: Augsburg Fortress.
https://tcr1alexanderstreet-com.ezproxy.liberty.edu/philologic/TCRT/navigate/72/1/3/.
47
Ibid., 61.
48
Ibid., 62.
Wells 33
“In order for us to remain with the one who remains with us, we must listen to his
commands, his words, his instructions on how to live life with him by his Spirit in his
Father’s kingdom. To study and listen to his word is itself a practice or discipline, and it is
an essential part of an overall way of life with Jesus. Indeed, as we practice that
discipline of study and meditation, we learn from him that there are other embodied
practices that bring our wills into alignment with his will.”
49
The third and final stage seeks to answer the question of the disciple, “are you a
multiplying leader?” In other words, are you seeking to make a difference with the purpose and
skillset God has uniquely equipped us with? Likening it to one of my most memorable stops in
ministry, this stage according to the author of this examination would say, Discover, Develop &
Deploy.
Putman & Harrington help us see how synonymous the Four Spheres of Discipleship are
with the Stages of Discipleship. The four spheres range from Relationships to the four key areas:
(1) Relationship with God (2) Relationship with the World (3) Relationship in the Home (4)
Relationships with Gods Family/Church). The core that obviously unites all of the spheres
together is our relationship with God. John 15 indicates that our most important sphere is that
of life in Christ.
The benefit of using the four spheres means that all of these can if done correctly
positively affect and change the believer under Christ’s control. Even as I speak of baptizing
eight individuals this weekend, I’m acutely aware as Putman & Harrington indicate of churches
making the dangerous conclusion of baptizing someone, handing them a bible and invite them
to come back next week. It’s empty, dangerous and typically that person never ends up
following through on that commitment having encountered a different world from off of their
49
Porter, Steven L. "Will/Heart/Spirit: Discipleship that Forms the Christian Character."
Christian Education Journal 16, no. 1 (04, 2019): 79-94,
http://ezproxy.liberty.edu/login?qurl=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.proquest.com
%2Fscholarly-journals%2Fwill-heart-spirit-discipleship-that-forms%2Fdocview
%2F2184328075%2Fse-2%3Faccountid%3D12085.
Wells 34
spiritual pedestal. New believers need a pathway to follow and a model to indicate growth and
define purpose. If churches miss this, we as pastors will continue to see more spiritual
consumers rather than what we all seek which is spiritual contributors.
Where Am I In This Process?
This examination of the spheres and stages of discipleship has forced me to identify
some difficult but helpful conclusions about my life. I consider myself a good leader in my
career, but
I’m constantly asking myself and my wife, “How am I doing at leading my family?” Recently, as
I lead a group of men through an online life Group, we’re working through a study by John
Eldredge titled, “Wild Life.” In the first couple days of the study, John asks us to identify our one
question about ourselves that we all as men have. Mine comes back to my family in brief
summary as, “Am I leading my family well” or, “Am I doing this right?”
The sphere of Relationships at Home is most identifiable to me at this time in my life
because of my love and affection for my wife of nearly twelve years and my two boys (ages 7
and 4). It is possible, writes Putman and Harrington to grasp the concepts of the gospel but fail
to apply them in the home.
50
In many ways, I get concerned about how I allow my emotions and desires to come into
abrupt conflict with me and my boys when situations get excessively difficult. Paul writes in
Ephesians 6:4, “Fathers, do not provoke your children to anger by the way you treat them.
Rather, bring them up with the discipline and instruction that comes from the Lord.” It’s possible
to grasp the concepts of the gospel but fail to apply them in the home. As a pastor, I’m
continuously reminded of a statement that rings true with me by a former pastor I worked
alongside in Craig Groeschel, “doing the work of God, destroyed the work of God in me.”
50
Putman, Jim And Bobby Harrington. 2013. “The Four Spheres.” In DiscipleShift: Five Steps That
Help Your Church To Make Disciples Who Make Disciples, 87. Grand Rapids, MI:
Zondervan.
Wells 35
Bonhoeffer and The Call to Discipleship
Dietrich Bonhoeffer in his work, “Chapter Two: The Call to Discipleship” walks us through
variety of calls in which again, have unifying overtones of the spheres and stages of discipleship.
I find myself in need of further assistance, growth and submission in the Sphere of Relationship
to God. As Bonhoeffer states, “he wants to follow” referring to the third one called by Jesus, but
he wants to set his own conditions for following. Discipleship is a possibility for him, whose
implementation requires fulfilling conditions and prerequisites.
51
Following Christ means taking
certain steps. The first step, which responds to the call, separates followers from their previous
existence.
52
I’ve found myself at multiple stopping points in my personal journey with Jesus simply
over double standards or contradictions in my leadership and correlating to my personal
discipline/devotion to Jesus. This could be tithing, consistent quiet time, etc. I set my own terms
but lead others a whole different path. This doesn’t work, it will never work and is in direct
violation with my ability to be formidable in the hands of God. “Those called, as Bonhoeffer
reads, must get out of their situations, in which they cannot believe, into a situation where faith
can begin.”
53
Submission to Christ
In submission to Christ, it is not a binding or a lesser distinction of freedom rather, it is
the opposite. It is in Jesus that we find our freedom as we engage with the four spheres and
stages of discipleship. Philippians 2:12-13 reads, “Work hard to show the results of your
salvation, obeying God with deep reverence and fear. For God is working in you, giving you the
desire and the power to do what pleases him.” Deep reverence and fear, when is the last time
51
Bonhoeffer, Dietrich. 2003. “The Call To Discipleship.” In Discipleship, edited by John D.
Godsey and Geoffrey B. Kelly, 61. Minneapolis, MN: Augsburg Fortress.
https://tcr1alexanderstreet-com.ezproxy.liberty.edu/philologic/TCRT/navigate/72/1/3/.
52
Ibid., 61.
53
Ibid., 62.
Wells 36
you or I experienced fear and conviction brought by the Holy Spirit? Submission is indicative of
fear, in obedience it does, however, bring an aroma of freedom based on our actions of
repentance to Jesus.
As our character is formed, we relinquish all control and allow freedom to begin. Steven
Porter writes in his work, Discipleship That Forms Christian Character,
“In order for us to remain with the one who remains with us, we must listen to his
commands, his words, his instructions on how to live life with him by his Spirit in his
Father’s kingdom. To study and listen to his word is itself a practice or discipline, and it is
an essential part of an overall way of life with Jesus. Indeed, as we practice that
discipline of study and meditation, we learn from him that there are other embodied
practices that bring our wills into alignment with his will.”
54
The third and final stage seeks to answer the question of the disciple, “are you a
multiplying leader?” In other words, are you seeking to make a difference with the purpose and
skillset God has uniquely equipped us with? Likening it to one of my most memorable stops in
ministry, this stage according to the author of this examination would say, Discover, Develop &
Deploy.
Putman & Harrington help us see how synonymous the Four Spheres of Discipleship are
with the Stages of Discipleship. The four spheres range from Relationships to the four key areas:
(1) Relationship with God (2) Relationship with the World (3) Relationship in the Home (4)
Relationships with Gods Family/Church). The core that obviously unites all of the spheres
together is our relationship with God. John 15 indicates that our most important sphere is that
of life in Christ.
54
Porter, Steven L. "Will/Heart/Spirit: Discipleship that Forms the Christian Character."
Christian Education Journal 16, no. 1 (04, 2019): 79-94,
http://ezproxy.liberty.edu/login?qurl=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.proquest.com
%2Fscholarly-journals%2Fwill-heart-spirit-discipleship-that-forms%2Fdocview
%2F2184328075%2Fse-2%3Faccountid%3D12085.
Wells 37
The benefit of using the four spheres means that all of these can if done correctly
positively affect and change the believer under Christ’s control. Even as I speak of baptizing
eight individuals this weekend, I’m acutely aware as Putman & Harrington indicate of churches
making the dangerous conclusion of baptizing someone, handing them a bible and invite them
to come back next week. It’s empty, dangerous and typically that person never ends up
following through on that commitment having encountered a different world from off of their
spiritual pedestal. New believers need a pathway to follow and a model to indicate growth and
define purpose. If churches miss this, we as pastors will continue to see more spiritual
consumers rather than what we all seek which is spiritual contributors.
Where Am I In This Process?
This examination of the spheres and stages of discipleship has forced me to identify
some difficult but helpful conclusions about my life. I consider myself a good leader in my
career, but
I’m constantly asking myself and my wife, “How am I doing at leading my family?” Recently, as
I lead a group of men through an online life Group, we’re working through a study by John
Eldredge titled, “Wild Life.” In the first couple days of the study, John asks us to identify our one
question about ourselves that we all as men have. Mine comes back to my family in brief
summary as, “Am I leading my family well” or, “Am I doing this right?”
The sphere of Relationships at Home is most identifiable to me at this time in my life
because of my love and affection for my wife of nearly twelve years and my two boys (ages 7
and 4). It is possible, writes Putman and Harrington to grasp the concepts of the gospel but fail
to apply them in the home.
55
55
Putman, Jim And Bobby Harrington. 2013. “The Four Spheres.” In DiscipleShift: Five Steps That
Help Your Church To Make Disciples Who Make Disciples, 87. Grand Rapids, MI:
Zondervan.
Wells 38
In many ways, I get concerned about how I allow my emotions and desires to come into
abrupt conflict with me and my boys when situations get excessively difficult. Paul writes in
Ephesians 6:4, “Fathers, do not provoke your children to anger by the way you treat them.
Rather, bring them up with the discipline and instruction that comes from the Lord.” It’s possible
to grasp the concepts of the gospel but fail to apply them in the home. As a pastor, I’m
continuously reminded of a statement that rings true with me by a former pastor I worked
alongside in Craig Groeschel, “doing the work of God, destroyed the work of God in me.”
Bonhoeffer and The Call to Discipleship
Dietrich Bonhoeffer in his work, “Chapter Two: The Call to Discipleship” walks us through
variety of calls in which again, have unifying overtones of the spheres and stages of discipleship.
I find myself in need of further assistance, growth and submission in the Sphere of Relationship
to God. As Bonhoeffer states, “he wants to follow” referring to the third one called by Jesus, but
he wants to set his own conditions for following. Discipleship is a possibility for him, whose
implementation requires fulfilling conditions and prerequisites.
56
Following Christ means taking
certain steps. The first step, which responds to the call, separates followers from their previous
existence.
57
I’ve found myself at multiple stopping points in my personal journey with Jesus simply
over double standards or contradictions in my leadership and correlating to my personal
discipline/devotion to Jesus. This could be tithing, consistent quiet time, etc. I set my own terms
but lead others a whole different path. This doesn’t work, it will never work and is in direct
violation with my ability to be formidable in the hands of God. “Those called, as Bonhoeffer
56
Bonhoeffer, Dietrich. 2003. “The Call To Discipleship.” In Discipleship, edited by John D.
Godsey and Geoffrey B. Kelly, 61. Minneapolis, MN: Augsburg Fortress.
https://tcr1alexanderstreet-com.ezproxy.liberty.edu/philologic/TCRT/navigate/72/1/3/.
57
Ibid., 61.
Wells 39
reads, must get out of their situations, in which they cannot believe, into a situation where faith
can begin.”
58
Submission to Christ
In submission to Christ, it is not a binding or a lesser distinction of freedom rather, it is
the opposite. It is in Jesus that we find our freedom as we engage with the four spheres and
stages of discipleship. Philippians 2:12-13 reads, “Work hard to show the results of your
salvation, obeying God with deep reverence and fear. For God is working in you, giving you the
desire and the power to do what pleases him.” Deep reverence and fear, when is the last time
you or I experienced fear and conviction brought by the Holy Spirit? Submission is indicative of
fear, in obedience it does, however, bring an aroma of freedom based on our actions of
repentance to Jesus.
As our character is formed, we relinquish all control and allow freedom to begin. Steven
Porter writes in his work, Discipleship That Forms Christian Character,
“In order for us to remain with the one who remains with us, we must listen to his
commands, his words, his instructions on how to live life with him by his Spirit in his
Father’s kingdom. To study and listen to his word is itself a practice or discipline, and it is
an essential part of an overall way of life with Jesus. Indeed, as we practice that
discipline of study and meditation, we learn from him that there are other embodied
practices that bring our wills into alignment with his will.”
59
The third and final stage seeks to answer the question of the disciple, “are you a
multiplying leader?” In other words, are you seeking to make a difference with the purpose and
skillset God has uniquely equipped us with? Likening it to one of my most memorable stops in
58
Ibid., 62.
59
Porter, Steven L. "Will/Heart/Spirit: Discipleship that Forms the Christian Character."
Christian Education Journal 16, no. 1 (04, 2019): 79-94,
http://ezproxy.liberty.edu/login?qurl=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.proquest.com
%2Fscholarly-journals%2Fwill-heart-spirit-discipleship-that-forms%2Fdocview
%2F2184328075%2Fse-2%3Faccountid%3D12085.
Wells 40
ministry, this stage according to the author of this examination would say, Discover, Develop &
Deploy.
Putman & Harrington help us see how synonymous the Four Spheres of Discipleship are
with the Stages of Discipleship. The four spheres range from Relationships to the four key areas:
(1) Relationship with God (2) Relationship with the World (3) Relationship in the Home (4)
Relationships with Gods Family/Church). The core that obviously unites all of the spheres
together is our relationship with God. John 15 indicates that our most important sphere is that
of life in Christ.
The benefit of using the four spheres means that all of these can if done correctly
positively affect and change the believer under Christ’s control. Even as I speak of baptizing
eight individuals this weekend, I’m acutely aware as Putman & Harrington indicate of churches
making the dangerous conclusion of baptizing someone, handing them a bible and invite them
to come back next week. It’s empty, dangerous and typically that person never ends up
following through on that commitment having encountered a different world from off of their
spiritual pedestal. New believers need a pathway to follow and a model to indicate growth and
define purpose. If churches miss this, we as pastors will continue to see more spiritual
consumers rather than what we all seek which is spiritual contributors.
Where Am I In This Process?
This examination of the spheres and stages of discipleship has forced me to identify
some difficult but helpful conclusions about my life. I consider myself a good leader in my
career, but
I’m constantly asking myself and my wife, “How am I doing at leading my family?” Recently, as
I lead a group of men through an online life Group, we’re working through a study by John
Eldredge titled, “Wild Life.” In the first couple days of the study, John asks us to identify our one
question about ourselves that we all as men have. Mine comes back to my family in brief
summary as, “Am I leading my family well” or, “Am I doing this right?”
Wells 41
The sphere of Relationships at Home is most identifiable to me at this time in my life
because of my love and affection for my wife of nearly twelve years and my two boys (ages 7
and 4). It is possible, writes Putman and Harrington to grasp the concepts of the gospel but fail
to apply them in the home.
60
In many ways, I get concerned about how I allow my emotions and desires to come into
abrupt conflict with me and my boys when situations get excessively difficult. Paul writes in
Ephesians 6:4, “Fathers, do not provoke your children to anger by the way you treat them.
Rather, bring them up with the discipline and instruction that comes from the Lord.” It’s possible
to grasp the concepts of the gospel but fail to apply them in the home. As a pastor, I’m
continuously reminded of a statement that rings true with me by a former pastor I worked
alongside in Craig Groeschel, “doing the work of God, destroyed the work of God in me.”
Bonhoeffer and The Call to Discipleship
Dietrich Bonhoeffer in his work, “Chapter Two: The Call to Discipleship” walks us through
variety of calls in which again, have unifying overtones of the spheres and stages of discipleship.
I find myself in need of further assistance, growth and submission in the Sphere of Relationship
to God. As Bonhoeffer states, “he wants to follow” referring to the third one called by Jesus, but
he wants to set his own conditions for following. Discipleship is a possibility for him, whose
implementation requires fulfilling conditions and prerequisites.
61
Following Christ means taking
certain steps. The first step, which responds to the call, separates followers from their previous
existence.
62
60
Putman, Jim And Bobby Harrington. 2013. “The Four Spheres.” In DiscipleShift: Five Steps That
Help Your Church To Make Disciples Who Make Disciples, 87. Grand Rapids, MI:
Zondervan.
61
Bonhoeffer, Dietrich. 2003. “The Call To Discipleship.” In Discipleship, edited by John D.
Godsey and Geoffrey B. Kelly, 61. Minneapolis, MN: Augsburg Fortress.
https://tcr1alexanderstreet-com.ezproxy.liberty.edu/philologic/TCRT/navigate/72/1/3/.
62
Ibid., 61.
Wells 42
I’ve found myself at multiple stopping points in my personal journey with Jesus simply
over double standards or contradictions in my leadership and correlating to my personal
discipline/devotion to Jesus. This could be tithing, consistent quiet time, etc. I set my own terms
but lead others a whole different path. This doesn’t work, it will never work and is in direct
violation with my ability to be formidable in the hands of God. “Those called, as Bonhoeffer
reads, must get out of their situations, in which they cannot believe, into a situation where faith
can begin.”
63
Submission to Christ
In submission to Christ, it is not a binding or a lesser distinction of freedom rather, it is
the opposite. It is in Jesus that we find our freedom as we engage with the four spheres and
stages of discipleship. Philippians 2:12-13 reads, “Work hard to show the results of your
salvation, obeying God with deep reverence and fear. For God is working in you, giving you the
desire and the power to do what pleases him.” Deep reverence and fear, when is the last time
you or I experienced fear and conviction brought by the Holy Spirit? Submission is indicative of
fear, in obedience it does, however, bring an aroma of freedom based on our actions of
repentance to Jesus.
As our character is formed, we relinquish all control and allow freedom to begin. Steven
Porter writes in his work, Discipleship That Forms Christian Character,
“In order for us to remain with the one who remains with us, we must listen to his
commands, his words, his instructions on how to live life with him by his Spirit in his
Father’s kingdom. To study and listen to his word is itself a practice or discipline, and it is
an essential part of an overall way of life with Jesus. Indeed, as we practice that
discipline of study and meditation, we learn from him that there are other embodied
practices that bring our wills into alignment with his will.”
64
63
Ibid., 62.
64
Porter, Steven L. "Will/Heart/Spirit: Discipleship that Forms the Christian Character."
Christian Education Journal 16, no. 1 (04, 2019): 79-94,
Wells 43
The third and final stage seeks to answer the question of the disciple, “are you a
multiplying leader?” In other words, are you seeking to make a difference with the purpose and
skillset God has uniquely equipped us with? Likening it to one of my most memorable stops in
ministry, this stage according to the author of this examination would say, Discover, Develop &
Deploy.
Putman & Harrington help us see how synonymous the Four Spheres of Discipleship are
with the Stages of Discipleship. The four spheres range from Relationships to the four key areas:
(1) Relationship with God (2) Relationship with the World (3) Relationship in the Home (4)
Relationships with Gods Family/Church). The core that obviously unites all of the spheres
together is our relationship with God. John 15 indicates that our most important sphere is that
of life in Christ.
The benefit of using the four spheres means that all of these can if done correctly
positively affect and change the believer under Christ’s control. Even as I speak of baptizing
eight individuals this weekend, I’m acutely aware as Putman & Harrington indicate of churches
making the dangerous conclusion of baptizing someone, handing them a bible and invite them
to come back next week. It’s empty, dangerous and typically that person never ends up
following through on that commitment having encountered a different world from off of their
spiritual pedestal. New believers need a pathway to follow and a model to indicate growth and
define purpose. If churches miss this, we as pastors will continue to see more spiritual
consumers rather than what we all seek which is spiritual contributors.
Where Am I In This Process?
This examination of the spheres and stages of discipleship has forced me to identify
some difficult but helpful conclusions about my life. I consider myself a good leader in my
career, but
http://ezproxy.liberty.edu/login?qurl=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.proquest.com
%2Fscholarly-journals%2Fwill-heart-spirit-discipleship-that-forms%2Fdocview
%2F2184328075%2Fse-2%3Faccountid%3D12085.
Wells 44
I’m constantly asking myself and my wife, “How am I doing at leading my family?” Recently, as
I lead a group of men through an online life Group, we’re working through a study by John
Eldredge titled, “Wild Life.” In the first couple days of the study, John asks us to identify our one
question about ourselves that we all as men have. Mine comes back to my family in brief
summary as, “Am I leading my family well” or, “Am I doing this right?”
The sphere of Relationships at Home is most identifiable to me at this time in my life
because of my love and affection for my wife of nearly twelve years and my two boys (ages 7
and 4). It is possible, writes Putman and Harrington to grasp the concepts of the gospel but fail
to apply them in the home.
65
In many ways, I get concerned about how I allow my emotions and desires to come into
abrupt conflict with me and my boys when situations get excessively difficult. Paul writes in
Ephesians 6:4, “Fathers, do not provoke your children to anger by the way you treat them.
Rather, bring them up with the discipline and instruction that comes from the Lord.” It’s possible
to grasp the concepts of the gospel but fail to apply them in the home. As a pastor, I’m
continuously reminded of a statement that rings true with me by a former pastor I worked
alongside in Craig Groeschel, “doing the work of God, destroyed the work of God in me.”
Bonhoeffer and The Call to Discipleship
Dietrich Bonhoeffer in his work, “Chapter Two: The Call to Discipleship” walks us through
variety of calls in which again, have unifying overtones of the spheres and stages of discipleship.
I find myself in need of further assistance, growth and submission in the Sphere of Relationship
to God. As Bonhoeffer states, “he wants to follow” referring to the third one called by Jesus, but
he wants to set his own conditions for following. Discipleship is a possibility for him, whose
65
Putman, Jim And Bobby Harrington. 2013. “The Four Spheres.” In DiscipleShift: Five Steps That
Help Your Church To Make Disciples Who Make Disciples, 87. Grand Rapids, MI:
Zondervan.
Wells 45
implementation requires fulfilling conditions and prerequisites.
66
Following Christ means taking
certain steps. The first step, which responds to the call, separates followers from their previous
existence.
67
I’ve found myself at multiple stopping points in my personal journey with Jesus simply
over double standards or contradictions in my leadership and correlating to my personal
discipline/devotion to Jesus. This could be tithing, consistent quiet time, etc. I set my own terms
but lead others a whole different path. This doesn’t work, it will never work and is in direct
violation with my ability to be formidable in the hands of God. “Those called, as Bonhoeffer
reads, must get out of their situations, in which they cannot believe, into a situation where faith
can begin.”
68
Submission to Christ
In submission to Christ, it is not a binding or a lesser distinction of freedom rather, it is
the opposite. It is in Jesus that we find our freedom as we engage with the four spheres and
stages of discipleship. Philippians 2:12-13 reads, “Work hard to show the results of your
salvation, obeying God with deep reverence and fear. For God is working in you, giving you the
desire and the power to do what pleases him.” Deep reverence and fear, when is the last time
you or I experienced fear and conviction brought by the Holy Spirit? Submission is indicative of
fear, in obedience it does, however, bring an aroma of freedom based on our actions of
repentance to Jesus.
As our character is formed, we relinquish all control and allow freedom to begin. Steven
Porter writes in his work, Discipleship That Forms Christian Character,
66
Bonhoeffer, Dietrich. 2003. “The Call To Discipleship.” In Discipleship, edited by John D.
Godsey and Geoffrey B. Kelly, 61. Minneapolis, MN: Augsburg Fortress.
https://tcr1alexanderstreet-com.ezproxy.liberty.edu/philologic/TCRT/navigate/72/1/3/.
67
Ibid., 61.
68
Ibid., 62.
Wells 46
“In order for us to remain with the one who remains with us, we must listen to his
commands, his words, his instructions on how to live life with him by his Spirit in his
Father’s kingdom. To study and listen to his word is itself a practice or discipline, and it is
an essential part of an overall way of life with Jesus. Indeed, as we practice that
discipline of study and meditation, we learn from him that there are other embodied
practices that bring our wills into alignment with his will.”
69
The third and final stage seeks to answer the question of the disciple, “are you a
multiplying leader?” In other words, are you seeking to make a difference with the purpose and
skillset God has uniquely equipped us with? Likening it to one of my most memorable stops in
ministry, this stage according to the author of this examination would say, Discover, Develop &
Deploy.
Putman & Harrington help us see how synonymous the Four Spheres of Discipleship are
with the Stages of Discipleship. The four spheres range from Relationships to the four key areas:
(1) Relationship with God (2) Relationship with the World (3) Relationship in the Home (4)
Relationships with Gods Family/Church). The core that obviously unites all of the spheres
together is our relationship with God. John 15 indicates that our most important sphere is that
of life in Christ.
The benefit of using the four spheres means that all of these can if done correctly
positively affect and change the believer under Christ’s control. Even as I speak of baptizing
eight individuals this weekend, I’m acutely aware as Putman & Harrington indicate of churches
making the dangerous conclusion of baptizing someone, handing them a bible and invite them
to come back next week. It’s empty, dangerous and typically that person never ends up
following through on that commitment having encountered a different world from off of their
69
Porter, Steven L. "Will/Heart/Spirit: Discipleship that Forms the Christian Character."
Christian Education Journal 16, no. 1 (04, 2019): 79-94,
http://ezproxy.liberty.edu/login?qurl=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.proquest.com
%2Fscholarly-journals%2Fwill-heart-spirit-discipleship-that-forms%2Fdocview
%2F2184328075%2Fse-2%3Faccountid%3D12085.
Wells 47
spiritual pedestal. New believers need a pathway to follow and a model to indicate growth and
define purpose. If churches miss this, we as pastors will continue to see more spiritual
consumers rather than what we all seek which is spiritual contributors.
Where Am I In This Process?
This examination of the spheres and stages of discipleship has forced me to identify
some difficult but helpful conclusions about my life. I consider myself a good leader in my
career, but
I’m constantly asking myself and my wife, “How am I doing at leading my family?” Recently, as
I lead a group of men through an online life Group, we’re working through a study by John
Eldredge titled, “Wild Life.” In the first couple days of the study, John asks us to identify our one
question about ourselves that we all as men have. Mine comes back to my family in brief
summary as, “Am I leading my family well” or, “Am I doing this right?”
The sphere of Relationships at Home is most identifiable to me at this time in my life
because of my love and affection for my wife of nearly twelve years and my two boys (ages 7
and 4). It is possible, writes Putman and Harrington to grasp the concepts of the gospel but fail
to apply them in the home.
70
In many ways, I get concerned about how I allow my emotions and desires to come into
abrupt conflict with me and my boys when situations get excessively difficult. Paul writes in
Ephesians 6:4, “Fathers, do not provoke your children to anger by the way you treat them.
Rather, bring them up with the discipline and instruction that comes from the Lord.” It’s possible
to grasp the concepts of the gospel but fail to apply them in the home. As a pastor, I’m
continuously reminded of a statement that rings true with me by a former pastor I worked
alongside in Craig Groeschel, “doing the work of God, destroyed the work of God in me.”
70
Putman, Jim And Bobby Harrington. 2013. “The Four Spheres.” In DiscipleShift: Five Steps That
Help Your Church To Make Disciples Who Make Disciples, 87. Grand Rapids, MI:
Zondervan.
Wells 48
Bonhoeffer and The Call to Discipleship
Dietrich Bonhoeffer in his work, “Chapter Two: The Call to Discipleship” walks us through
variety of calls in which again, have unifying overtones of the spheres and stages of discipleship.
I find myself in need of further assistance, growth and submission in the Sphere of Relationship
to God. As Bonhoeffer states, “he wants to follow” referring to the third one called by Jesus, but
he wants to set his own conditions for following. Discipleship is a possibility for him, whose
implementation requires fulfilling conditions and prerequisites.
71
Following Christ means taking
certain steps. The first step, which responds to the call, separates followers from their previous
existence.
72
I’ve found myself at multiple stopping points in my personal journey with Jesus simply
over double standards or contradictions in my leadership and correlating to my personal
discipline/devotion to Jesus. This could be tithing, consistent quiet time, etc. I set my own terms
but lead others a whole different path. This doesn’t work, it will never work and is in direct
violation with my ability to be formidable in the hands of God. “Those called, as Bonhoeffer
reads, must get out of their situations, in which they cannot believe, into a situation where faith
can begin.”
73
Submission to Christ
In submission to Christ, it is not a binding or a lesser distinction of freedom rather, it is
the opposite. It is in Jesus that we find our freedom as we engage with the four spheres and
stages of discipleship. Philippians 2:12-13 reads, “Work hard to show the results of your
salvation, obeying God with deep reverence and fear. For God is working in you, giving you the
desire and the power to do what pleases him.” Deep reverence and fear, when is the last time
71
Bonhoeffer, Dietrich. 2003. “The Call To Discipleship.” In Discipleship, edited by John D.
Godsey and Geoffrey B. Kelly, 61. Minneapolis, MN: Augsburg Fortress.
https://tcr1alexanderstreet-com.ezproxy.liberty.edu/philologic/TCRT/navigate/72/1/3/.
72
Ibid., 61.
73
Ibid., 62.
Wells 49
you or I experienced fear and conviction brought by the Holy Spirit? Submission is indicative of
fear, in obedience it does, however, bring an aroma of freedom based on our actions of
repentance to Jesus.
As our character is formed, we relinquish all control and allow freedom to begin. Steven
Porter writes in his work, Discipleship That Forms Christian Character,
“In order for us to remain with the one who remains with us, we must listen to his
commands, his words, his instructions on how to live life with him by his Spirit in his
Father’s kingdom. To study and listen to his word is itself a practice or discipline, and it is
an essential part of an overall way of life with Jesus. Indeed, as we practice that
discipline of study and meditation, we learn from him that there are other embodied
practices that bring our wills into alignment with his will.”
74
The third and final stage seeks to answer the question of the disciple, “are you a
multiplying leader?” In other words, are you seeking to make a difference with the purpose and
skillset God has uniquely equipped us with? Likening it to one of my most memorable stops in
ministry, this stage according to the author of this examination would say, Discover, Develop &
Deploy.
Putman & Harrington help us see how synonymous the Four Spheres of Discipleship are
with the Stages of Discipleship. The four spheres range from Relationships to the four key areas:
(1) Relationship with God (2) Relationship with the World (3) Relationship in the Home (4)
Relationships with Gods Family/Church). The core that obviously unites all of the spheres
together is our relationship with God. John 15 indicates that our most important sphere is that
of life in Christ.
74
Porter, Steven L. "Will/Heart/Spirit: Discipleship that Forms the Christian Character."
Christian Education Journal 16, no. 1 (04, 2019): 79-94,
http://ezproxy.liberty.edu/login?qurl=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.proquest.com
%2Fscholarly-journals%2Fwill-heart-spirit-discipleship-that-forms%2Fdocview
%2F2184328075%2Fse-2%3Faccountid%3D12085.
Wells 50
The benefit of using the four spheres means that all of these can if done correctly
positively affect and change the believer under Christ’s control. Even as I speak of baptizing
eight individuals this weekend, I’m acutely aware as Putman & Harrington indicate of churches
making the dangerous conclusion of baptizing someone, handing them a bible and invite them
to come back next week. It’s empty, dangerous and typically that person never ends up
following through on that commitment having encountered a different world from off of their
spiritual pedestal. New believers need a pathway to follow and a model to indicate growth and
define purpose. If churches miss this, we as pastors will continue to see more spiritual
consumers rather than what we all seek which is spiritual contributors.
Where Am I In This Process?
This examination of the spheres and stages of discipleship has forced me to identify
some difficult but helpful conclusions about my life. I consider myself a good leader in my
career, but
I’m constantly asking myself and my wife, “How am I doing at leading my family?” Recently, as
I lead a group of men through an online life Group, we’re working through a study by John
Eldredge titled, “Wild Life.” In the first couple days of the study, John asks us to identify our one
question about ourselves that we all as men have. Mine comes back to my family in brief
summary as, “Am I leading my family well” or, “Am I doing this right?”
The sphere of Relationships at Home is most identifiable to me at this time in my life
because of my love and affection for my wife of nearly twelve years and my two boys (ages 7
and 4). It is possible, writes Putman and Harrington to grasp the concepts of the gospel but fail
to apply them in the home.
75
75
Putman, Jim And Bobby Harrington. 2013. “The Four Spheres.” In DiscipleShift: Five Steps That
Help Your Church To Make Disciples Who Make Disciples, 87. Grand Rapids, MI:
Zondervan.
Wells 51
In many ways, I get concerned about how I allow my emotions and desires to come into
abrupt conflict with me and my boys when situations get excessively difficult. Paul writes in
Ephesians 6:4, “Fathers, do not provoke your children to anger by the way you treat them.
Rather, bring them up with the discipline and instruction that comes from the Lord.” It’s possible
to grasp the concepts of the gospel but fail to apply them in the home. As a pastor, I’m
continuously reminded of a statement that rings true with me by a former pastor I worked
alongside in Craig Groeschel, “doing the work of God, destroyed the work of God in me.”
Bonhoeffer and The Call to Discipleship
Dietrich Bonhoeffer in his work, “Chapter Two: The Call to Discipleship” walks us through
variety of calls in which again, have unifying overtones of the spheres and stages of discipleship.
I find myself in need of further assistance, growth and submission in the Sphere of Relationship
to God. As Bonhoeffer states, “he wants to follow” referring to the third one called by Jesus, but
he wants to set his own conditions for following. Discipleship is a possibility for him, whose
implementation requires fulfilling conditions and prerequisites.
76
Following Christ means taking
certain steps. The first step, which responds to the call, separates followers from their previous
existence.
77
I’ve found myself at multiple stopping points in my personal journey with Jesus simply
over double standards or contradictions in my leadership and correlating to my personal
discipline/devotion to Jesus. This could be tithing, consistent quiet time, etc. I set my own terms
but lead others a whole different path. This doesn’t work, it will never work and is in direct
violation with my ability to be formidable in the hands of God. “Those called, as Bonhoeffer
76
Bonhoeffer, Dietrich. 2003. “The Call To Discipleship.” In Discipleship, edited by John D.
Godsey and Geoffrey B. Kelly, 61. Minneapolis, MN: Augsburg Fortress.
https://tcr1alexanderstreet-com.ezproxy.liberty.edu/philologic/TCRT/navigate/72/1/3/.
77
Ibid., 61.
Wells 52
reads, must get out of their situations, in which they cannot believe, into a situation where faith
can begin.”
78
Submission to Christ
In submission to Christ, it is not a binding or a lesser distinction of freedom rather, it is
the opposite. It is in Jesus that we find our freedom as we engage with the four spheres and
stages of discipleship. Philippians 2:12-13 reads, “Work hard to show the results of your
salvation, obeying God with deep reverence and fear. For God is working in you, giving you the
desire and the power to do what pleases him.” Deep reverence and fear, when is the last time
you or I experienced fear and conviction brought by the Holy Spirit? Submission is indicative of
fear, in obedience it does, however, bring an aroma of freedom based on our actions of
repentance to Jesus.
As our character is formed, we relinquish all control and allow freedom to begin. Steven
Porter writes in his work, Discipleship That Forms Christian Character,
“In order for us to remain with the one who remains with us, we must listen to his
commands, his words, his instructions on how to live life with him by his Spirit in his
Father’s kingdom. To study and listen to his word is itself a practice or discipline, and it is
an essential part of an overall way of life with Jesus. Indeed, as we practice that
discipline of study and meditation, we learn from him that there are other embodied
practices that bring our wills into alignment with his will.”
79
The third and final stage seeks to answer the question of the disciple, “are you a
multiplying leader?” In other words, are you seeking to make a difference with the purpose and
skillset God has uniquely equipped us with? Likening it to one of my most memorable stops in
78
Ibid., 62.
79
Porter, Steven L. "Will/Heart/Spirit: Discipleship that Forms the Christian Character."
Christian Education Journal 16, no. 1 (04, 2019): 79-94,
http://ezproxy.liberty.edu/login?qurl=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.proquest.com
%2Fscholarly-journals%2Fwill-heart-spirit-discipleship-that-forms%2Fdocview
%2F2184328075%2Fse-2%3Faccountid%3D12085.
Wells 53
ministry, this stage according to the author of this examination would say, Discover, Develop &
Deploy.
Putman & Harrington help us see how synonymous the Four Spheres of Discipleship are
with the Stages of Discipleship. The four spheres range from Relationships to the four key areas:
(1) Relationship with God (2) Relationship with the World (3) Relationship in the Home (4)
Relationships with Gods Family/Church). The core that obviously unites all of the spheres
together is our relationship with God. John 15 indicates that our most important sphere is that
of life in Christ.
The benefit of using the four spheres means that all of these can if done correctly
positively affect and change the believer under Christ’s control. Even as I speak of baptizing
eight individuals this weekend, I’m acutely aware as Putman & Harrington indicate of churches
making the dangerous conclusion of baptizing someone, handing them a bible and invite them
to come back next week. It’s empty, dangerous and typically that person never ends up
following through on that commitment having encountered a different world from off of their
spiritual pedestal. New believers need a pathway to follow and a model to indicate growth and
define purpose. If churches miss this, we as pastors will continue to see more spiritual
consumers rather than what we all seek which is spiritual contributors.
Where Am I In This Process?
This examination of the spheres and stages of discipleship has forced me to identify
some difficult but helpful conclusions about my life. I consider myself a good leader in my
career, but
I’m constantly asking myself and my wife, “How am I doing at leading my family?” Recently, as
I lead a group of men through an online life Group, we’re working through a study by John
Eldredge titled, “Wild Life.” In the first couple days of the study, John asks us to identify our one
question about ourselves that we all as men have. Mine comes back to my family in brief
summary as, “Am I leading my family well” or, “Am I doing this right?”
Wells 54
The sphere of Relationships at Home is most identifiable to me at this time in my life
because of my love and affection for my wife of nearly twelve years and my two boys (ages 7
and 4). It is possible, writes Putman and Harrington to grasp the concepts of the gospel but fail
to apply them in the home.
80
In many ways, I get concerned about how I allow my emotions and desires to come into
abrupt conflict with me and my boys when situations get excessively difficult. Paul writes in
Ephesians 6:4, “Fathers, do not provoke your children to anger by the way you treat them.
Rather, bring them up with the discipline and instruction that comes from the Lord.” It’s possible
to grasp the concepts of the gospel but fail to apply them in the home. As a pastor, I’m
continuously reminded of a statement that rings true with me by a former pastor I worked
alongside in Craig Groeschel, “doing the work of God, destroyed the work of God in me.”
Bonhoeffer and The Call to Discipleship
Dietrich Bonhoeffer in his work, “Chapter Two: The Call to Discipleship” walks us through
variety of calls in which again, have unifying overtones of the spheres and stages of discipleship.
I find myself in need of further assistance, growth and submission in the Sphere of Relationship
to God. As Bonhoeffer states, “he wants to follow” referring to the third one called by Jesus, but
he wants to set his own conditions for following. Discipleship is a possibility for him, whose
implementation requires fulfilling conditions and prerequisites.
81
Following Christ means taking
certain steps. The first step, which responds to the call, separates followers from their previous
existence.
82
80
Putman, Jim And Bobby Harrington. 2013. “The Four Spheres.” In DiscipleShift: Five Steps That
Help Your Church To Make Disciples Who Make Disciples, 87. Grand Rapids, MI:
Zondervan.
81
Bonhoeffer, Dietrich. 2003. “The Call To Discipleship.” In Discipleship, edited by John D.
Godsey and Geoffrey B. Kelly, 61. Minneapolis, MN: Augsburg Fortress.
https://tcr1alexanderstreet-com.ezproxy.liberty.edu/philologic/TCRT/navigate/72/1/3/.
82
Ibid., 61.
Wells 55
I’ve found myself at multiple stopping points in my personal journey with Jesus simply
over double standards or contradictions in my leadership and correlating to my personal
discipline/devotion to Jesus. This could be tithing, consistent quiet time, etc. I set my own terms
but lead others a whole different path. This doesn’t work, it will never work and is in direct
violation with my ability to be formidable in the hands of God. “Those called, as Bonhoeffer
reads, must get out of their situations, in which they cannot believe, into a situation where faith
can begin.”
83
Submission to Christ
In submission to Christ, it is not a binding or a lesser distinction of freedom rather, it is
the opposite. It is in Jesus that we find our freedom as we engage with the four spheres and
stages of discipleship. Philippians 2:12-13 reads, “Work hard to show the results of your
salvation, obeying God with deep reverence and fear. For God is working in you, giving you the
desire and the power to do what pleases him.” Deep reverence and fear, when is the last time
you or I experienced fear and conviction brought by the Holy Spirit? Submission is indicative of
fear, in obedience it does, however, bring an aroma of freedom based on our actions of
repentance to Jesus.
As our character is formed, we relinquish all control and allow freedom to begin. Steven
Porter writes in his work, Discipleship That Forms Christian Character,
“In order for us to remain with the one who remains with us, we must listen to his
commands, his words, his instructions on how to live life with him by his Spirit in his
Father’s kingdom. To study and listen to his word is itself a practice or discipline, and it is
an essential part of an overall way of life with Jesus. Indeed, as we practice that
discipline of study and meditation, we learn from him that there are other embodied
practices that bring our wills into alignment with his will.”
84
83
Ibid., 62.
84
Porter, Steven L. "Will/Heart/Spirit: Discipleship that Forms the Christian Character."
Christian Education Journal 16, no. 1 (04, 2019): 79-94,
Wells 56
The third and final stage seeks to answer the question of the disciple, “are you a
multiplying leader?” In other words, are you seeking to make a difference with the purpose and
skillset God has uniquely equipped us with? Likening it to one of my most memorable stops in
ministry, this stage according to the author of this examination would say, Discover, Develop &
Deploy.
Putman & Harrington help us see how synonymous the Four Spheres of Discipleship are
with the Stages of Discipleship. The four spheres range from Relationships to the four key areas:
(1) Relationship with God (2) Relationship with the World (3) Relationship in the Home (4)
Relationships with Gods Family/Church). The core that obviously unites all of the spheres
together is our relationship with God. John 15 indicates that our most important sphere is that
of life in Christ.
The benefit of using the four spheres means that all of these can if done correctly
positively affect and change the believer under Christ’s control. Even as I speak of baptizing
eight individuals this weekend, I’m acutely aware as Putman & Harrington indicate of churches
making the dangerous conclusion of baptizing someone, handing them a bible and invite them
to come back next week. It’s empty, dangerous and typically that person never ends up
following through on that commitment having encountered a different world from off of their
spiritual pedestal. New believers need a pathway to follow and a model to indicate growth and
define purpose. If churches miss this, we as pastors will continue to see more spiritual
consumers rather than what we all seek which is spiritual contributors.
Where Am I In This Process?
This examination of the spheres and stages of discipleship has forced me to identify
some difficult but helpful conclusions about my life. I consider myself a good leader in my
career, but
http://ezproxy.liberty.edu/login?qurl=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.proquest.com
%2Fscholarly-journals%2Fwill-heart-spirit-discipleship-that-forms%2Fdocview
%2F2184328075%2Fse-2%3Faccountid%3D12085.
Wells 57
I’m constantly asking myself and my wife, “How am I doing at leading my family?” Recently, as
I lead a group of men through an online life Group, we’re working through a study by John
Eldredge titled, “Wild Life.” In the first couple days of the study, John asks us to identify our one
question about ourselves that we all as men have. Mine comes back to my family in brief
summary as, “Am I leading my family well” or, “Am I doing this right?”
The sphere of Relationships at Home is most identifiable to me at this time in my life
because of my love and affection for my wife of nearly twelve years and my two boys (ages 7
and 4). It is possible, writes Putman and Harrington to grasp the concepts of the gospel but fail
to apply them in the home.
85
In many ways, I get concerned about how I allow my emotions and desires to come into
abrupt conflict with me and my boys when situations get excessively difficult. Paul writes in
Ephesians 6:4, “Fathers, do not provoke your children to anger by the way you treat them.
Rather, bring them up with the discipline and instruction that comes from the Lord.” It’s possible
to grasp the concepts of the gospel but fail to apply them in the home. As a pastor, I’m
continuously reminded of a statement that rings true with me by a former pastor I worked
alongside in Craig Groeschel, “doing the work of God, destroyed the work of God in me.”
Bonhoeffer and The Call to Discipleship
Dietrich Bonhoeffer in his work, “Chapter Two: The Call to Discipleship” walks us through
variety of calls in which again, have unifying overtones of the spheres and stages of discipleship.
I find myself in need of further assistance, growth and submission in the Sphere of Relationship
to God. As Bonhoeffer states, “he wants to follow” referring to the third one called by Jesus, but
he wants to set his own conditions for following. Discipleship is a possibility for him, whose
85
Putman, Jim And Bobby Harrington. 2013. “The Four Spheres.” In DiscipleShift: Five Steps That
Help Your Church To Make Disciples Who Make Disciples, 87. Grand Rapids, MI:
Zondervan.
Wells 58
implementation requires fulfilling conditions and prerequisites.
86
Following Christ means taking
certain steps. The first step, which responds to the call, separates followers from their previous
existence.
87
I’ve found myself at multiple stopping points in my personal journey with Jesus simply
over double standards or contradictions in my leadership and correlating to my personal
discipline/devotion to Jesus. This could be tithing, consistent quiet time, etc. I set my own terms
but lead others a whole different path. This doesn’t work, it will never work and is in direct
violation with my ability to be formidable in the hands of God. “Those called, as Bonhoeffer
reads, must get out of their situations, in which they cannot believe, into a situation where faith
can begin.”
88
Submission to Christ
In submission to Christ, it is not a binding or a lesser distinction of freedom rather, it is
the opposite. It is in Jesus that we find our freedom as we engage with the four spheres and
stages of discipleship. Philippians 2:12-13 reads, “Work hard to show the results of your
salvation, obeying God with deep reverence and fear. For God is working in you, giving you the
desire and the power to do what pleases him.” Deep reverence and fear, when is the last time
you or I experienced fear and conviction brought by the Holy Spirit? Submission is indicative of
fear, in obedience it does, however, bring an aroma of freedom based on our actions of
repentance to Jesus.
As our character is formed, we relinquish all control and allow freedom to begin. Steven
Porter writes in his work, Discipleship That Forms Christian Character,
86
Bonhoeffer, Dietrich. 2003. “The Call To Discipleship.” In Discipleship, edited by John D.
Godsey and Geoffrey B. Kelly, 61. Minneapolis, MN: Augsburg Fortress.
https://tcr1alexanderstreet-com.ezproxy.liberty.edu/philologic/TCRT/navigate/72/1/3/.
87
Ibid., 61.
88
Ibid., 62.
Wells 59
“In order for us to remain with the one who remains with us, we must listen to his
commands, his words, his instructions on how to live life with him by his Spirit in his
Father’s kingdom. To study and listen to his word is itself a practice or discipline, and it is
an essential part of an overall way of life with Jesus. Indeed, as we practice that
discipline of study and meditation, we learn from him that there are other embodied
practices that bring our wills into alignment with his will.”
89
The third and final stage seeks to answer the question of the disciple, “are you a
multiplying leader?” In other words, are you seeking to make a difference with the purpose and
skillset God has uniquely equipped us with? Likening it to one of my most memorable stops in
ministry, this stage according to the author of this examination would say, Discover, Develop &
Deploy.
Putman & Harrington help us see how synonymous the Four Spheres of Discipleship are
with the Stages of Discipleship. The four spheres range from Relationships to the four key areas:
(1) Relationship with God (2) Relationship with the World (3) Relationship in the Home (4)
Relationships with Gods Family/Church). The core that obviously unites all of the spheres
together is our relationship with God. John 15 indicates that our most important sphere is that
of life in Christ.
The benefit of using the four spheres means that all of these can if done correctly
positively affect and change the believer under Christ’s control. Even as I speak of baptizing
eight individuals this weekend, I’m acutely aware as Putman & Harrington indicate of churches
making the dangerous conclusion of baptizing someone, handing them a bible and invite them
to come back next week. It’s empty, dangerous and typically that person never ends up
following through on that commitment having encountered a different world from off of their
89
Porter, Steven L. "Will/Heart/Spirit: Discipleship that Forms the Christian Character."
Christian Education Journal 16, no. 1 (04, 2019): 79-94,
http://ezproxy.liberty.edu/login?qurl=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.proquest.com
%2Fscholarly-journals%2Fwill-heart-spirit-discipleship-that-forms%2Fdocview
%2F2184328075%2Fse-2%3Faccountid%3D12085.
Wells 60
spiritual pedestal. New believers need a pathway to follow and a model to indicate growth and
define purpose. If churches miss this, we as pastors will continue to see more spiritual
consumers rather than what we all seek which is spiritual contributors.
Where Am I In This Process?
This examination of the spheres and stages of discipleship has forced me to identify
some difficult but helpful conclusions about my life. I consider myself a good leader in my
career, but
I’m constantly asking myself and my wife, “How am I doing at leading my family?” Recently, as
I lead a group of men through an online life Group, we’re working through a study by John
Eldredge titled, “Wild Life.” In the first couple days of the study, John asks us to identify our one
question about ourselves that we all as men have. Mine comes back to my family in brief
summary as, “Am I leading my family well” or, “Am I doing this right?”
The sphere of Relationships at Home is most identifiable to me at this time in my life
because of my love and affection for my wife of nearly twelve years and my two boys (ages 7
and 4). It is possible, writes Putman and Harrington to grasp the concepts of the gospel but fail
to apply them in the home.
90
In many ways, I get concerned about how I allow my emotions and desires to come into
abrupt conflict with me and my boys when situations get excessively difficult. Paul writes in
Ephesians 6:4, “Fathers, do not provoke your children to anger by the way you treat them.
Rather, bring them up with the discipline and instruction that comes from the Lord.” It’s possible
to grasp the concepts of the gospel but fail to apply them in the home. As a pastor, I’m
continuously reminded of a statement that rings true with me by a former pastor I worked
alongside in Craig Groeschel, “doing the work of God, destroyed the work of God in me.”
90
Putman, Jim And Bobby Harrington. 2013. “The Four Spheres.” In DiscipleShift: Five Steps That
Help Your Church To Make Disciples Who Make Disciples, 87. Grand Rapids, MI:
Zondervan.
Wells 61
Bonhoeffer and The Call to Discipleship
Dietrich Bonhoeffer in his work, “Chapter Two: The Call to Discipleship” walks us through
variety of calls in which again, have unifying overtones of the spheres and stages of discipleship.
I find myself in need of further assistance, growth and submission in the Sphere of Relationship
to God. As Bonhoeffer states, “he wants to follow” referring to the third one called by Jesus, but
he wants to set his own conditions for following. Discipleship is a possibility for him, whose
implementation requires fulfilling conditions and prerequisites.
91
Following Christ means taking
certain steps. The first step, which responds to the call, separates followers from their previous
existence.
92
I’ve found myself at multiple stopping points in my personal journey with Jesus simply
over double standards or contradictions in my leadership and correlating to my personal
discipline/devotion to Jesus. This could be tithing, consistent quiet time, etc. I set my own terms
but lead others a whole different path. This doesn’t work, it will never work and is in direct
violation with my ability to be formidable in the hands of God. “Those called, as Bonhoeffer
reads, must get out of their situations, in which they cannot believe, into a situation where faith
can begin.”
93
Submission to Christ
In submission to Christ, it is not a binding or a lesser distinction of freedom rather, it is
the opposite. It is in Jesus that we find our freedom as we engage with the four spheres and
stages of discipleship. Philippians 2:12-13 reads, “Work hard to show the results of your
salvation, obeying God with deep reverence and fear. For God is working in you, giving you the
desire and the power to do what pleases him.” Deep reverence and fear, when is the last time
91
Bonhoeffer, Dietrich. 2003. “The Call To Discipleship.” In Discipleship, edited by John D.
Godsey and Geoffrey B. Kelly, 61. Minneapolis, MN: Augsburg Fortress.
https://tcr1alexanderstreet-com.ezproxy.liberty.edu/philologic/TCRT/navigate/72/1/3/.
92
Ibid., 61.
93
Ibid., 62.
Wells 62
you or I experienced fear and conviction brought by the Holy Spirit? Submission is indicative of
fear, in obedience it does, however, bring an aroma of freedom based on our actions of
repentance to Jesus.
As our character is formed, we relinquish all control and allow freedom to begin. Steven
Porter writes in his work, Discipleship That Forms Christian Character,
“In order for us to remain with the one who remains with us, we must listen to his
commands, his words, his instructions on how to live life with him by his Spirit in his
Father’s kingdom. To study and listen to his word is itself a practice or discipline, and it is
an essential part of an overall way of life with Jesus. Indeed, as we practice that
discipline of study and meditation, we learn from him that there are other embodied
practices that bring our wills into alignment with his will.”
94
The third and final stage seeks to answer the question of the disciple, “are you a
multiplying leader?” In other words, are you seeking to make a difference with the purpose and
skillset God has uniquely equipped us with? Likening it to one of my most memorable stops in
ministry, this stage according to the author of this examination would say, Discover, Develop &
Deploy.
Putman & Harrington help us see how synonymous the Four Spheres of Discipleship are
with the Stages of Discipleship. The four spheres range from Relationships to the four key areas:
(1) Relationship with God (2) Relationship with the World (3) Relationship in the Home (4)
Relationships with Gods Family/Church). The core that obviously unites all of the spheres
together is our relationship with God. John 15 indicates that our most important sphere is that
of life in Christ.
94
Porter, Steven L. "Will/Heart/Spirit: Discipleship that Forms the Christian Character."
Christian Education Journal 16, no. 1 (04, 2019): 79-94,
http://ezproxy.liberty.edu/login?qurl=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.proquest.com
%2Fscholarly-journals%2Fwill-heart-spirit-discipleship-that-forms%2Fdocview
%2F2184328075%2Fse-2%3Faccountid%3D12085.
Wells 63
The benefit of using the four spheres means that all of these can if done correctly
positively affect and change the believer under Christ’s control. Even as I speak of baptizing
eight individuals this weekend, I’m acutely aware as Putman & Harrington indicate of churches
making the dangerous conclusion of baptizing someone, handing them a bible and invite them
to come back next week. It’s empty, dangerous and typically that person never ends up
following through on that commitment having encountered a different world from off of their
spiritual pedestal. New believers need a pathway to follow and a model to indicate growth and
define purpose. If churches miss this, we as pastors will continue to see more spiritual
consumers rather than what we all seek which is spiritual contributors.
Where Am I In This Process?
This examination of the spheres and stages of discipleship has forced me to identify
some difficult but helpful conclusions about my life. I consider myself a good leader in my
career, but
I’m constantly asking myself and my wife, “How am I doing at leading my family?” Recently, as
I lead a group of men through an online life Group, we’re working through a study by John
Eldredge titled, “Wild Life.” In the first couple days of the study, John asks us to identify our one
question about ourselves that we all as men have. Mine comes back to my family in brief
summary as, “Am I leading my family well” or, “Am I doing this right?”
The sphere of Relationships at Home is most identifiable to me at this time in my life
because of my love and affection for my wife of nearly twelve years and my two boys (ages 7
and 4). It is possible, writes Putman and Harrington to grasp the concepts of the gospel but fail
to apply them in the home.
95
95
Putman, Jim And Bobby Harrington. 2013. “The Four Spheres.” In DiscipleShift: Five Steps That
Help Your Church To Make Disciples Who Make Disciples, 87. Grand Rapids, MI:
Zondervan.
Wells 64
In many ways, I get concerned about how I allow my emotions and desires to come into
abrupt conflict with me and my boys when situations get excessively difficult. Paul writes in
Ephesians 6:4, “Fathers, do not provoke your children to anger by the way you treat them.
Rather, bring them up with the discipline and instruction that comes from the Lord.” It’s possible
to grasp the concepts of the gospel but fail to apply them in the home. As a pastor, I’m
continuously reminded of a statement that rings true with me by a former pastor I worked
alongside in Craig Groeschel, “doing the work of God, destroyed the work of God in me.”
Bonhoeffer and The Call to Discipleship
Dietrich Bonhoeffer in his work, “Chapter Two: The Call to Discipleship” walks us through
variety of calls in which again, have unifying overtones of the spheres and stages of discipleship.
I find myself in need of further assistance, growth and submission in the Sphere of Relationship
to God. As Bonhoeffer states, “he wants to follow” referring to the third one called by Jesus, but
he wants to set his own conditions for following. Discipleship is a possibility for him, whose
implementation requires fulfilling conditions and prerequisites.
96
Following Christ means taking
certain steps. The first step, which responds to the call, separates followers from their previous
existence.
97
I’ve found myself at multiple stopping points in my personal journey with Jesus simply
over double standards or contradictions in my leadership and correlating to my personal
discipline/devotion to Jesus. This could be tithing, consistent quiet time, etc. I set my own terms
but lead others a whole different path. This doesn’t work, it will never work and is in direct
violation with my ability to be formidable in the hands of God. “Those called, as Bonhoeffer
96
Bonhoeffer, Dietrich. 2003. “The Call To Discipleship.” In Discipleship, edited by John D.
Godsey and Geoffrey B. Kelly, 61. Minneapolis, MN: Augsburg Fortress.
https://tcr1alexanderstreet-com.ezproxy.liberty.edu/philologic/TCRT/navigate/72/1/3/.
97
Ibid., 61.
Wells 65
reads, must get out of their situations, in which they cannot believe, into a situation where faith
can begin.”
98
Submission to Christ
In submission to Christ, it is not a binding or a lesser distinction of freedom rather, it is
the opposite. It is in Jesus that we find our freedom as we engage with the four spheres and
stages of discipleship. Philippians 2:12-13 reads, “Work hard to show the results of your
salvation, obeying God with deep reverence and fear. For God is working in you, giving you the
desire and the power to do what pleases him.” Deep reverence and fear, when is the last time
you or I experienced fear and conviction brought by the Holy Spirit? Submission is indicative of
fear, in obedience it does, however, bring an aroma of freedom based on our actions of
repentance to Jesus.
As our character is formed, we relinquish all control and allow freedom to begin. Steven
Porter writes in his work, Discipleship That Forms Christian Character,
“In order for us to remain with the one who remains with us, we must listen to his
commands, his words, his instructions on how to live life with him by his Spirit in his
Father’s kingdom. To study and listen to his word is itself a practice or discipline, and it is
an essential part of an overall way of life with Jesus. Indeed, as we practice that
discipline of study and meditation, we learn from him that there are other embodied
practices that bring our wills into alignment with his will.”
99
The third and final stage seeks to answer the question of the disciple, “are you a
multiplying leader?” In other words, are you seeking to make a difference with the purpose and
skillset God has uniquely equipped us with? Likening it to one of my most memorable stops in
98
Ibid., 62.
99
Porter, Steven L. "Will/Heart/Spirit: Discipleship that Forms the Christian Character."
Christian Education Journal 16, no. 1 (04, 2019): 79-94,
http://ezproxy.liberty.edu/login?qurl=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.proquest.com
%2Fscholarly-journals%2Fwill-heart-spirit-discipleship-that-forms%2Fdocview
%2F2184328075%2Fse-2%3Faccountid%3D12085.
Wells 66
ministry, this stage according to the author of this examination would say, Discover, Develop &
Deploy.
Putman & Harrington help us see how synonymous the Four Spheres of Discipleship are
with the Stages of Discipleship. The four spheres range from Relationships to the four key areas:
(1) Relationship with God (2) Relationship with the World (3) Relationship in the Home (4)
Relationships with Gods Family/Church). The core that obviously unites all of the spheres
together is our relationship with God. John 15 indicates that our most important sphere is that
of life in Christ.
The benefit of using the four spheres means that all of these can if done correctly
positively affect and change the believer under Christ’s control. Even as I speak of baptizing
eight individuals this weekend, I’m acutely aware as Putman & Harrington indicate of churches
making the dangerous conclusion of baptizing someone, handing them a bible and invite them
to come back next week. It’s empty, dangerous and typically that person never ends up
following through on that commitment having encountered a different world from off of their
spiritual pedestal. New believers need a pathway to follow and a model to indicate growth and
define purpose. If churches miss this, we as pastors will continue to see more spiritual
consumers rather than what we all seek which is spiritual contributors.
Where Am I In This Process?
This examination of the spheres and stages of discipleship has forced me to identify
some difficult but helpful conclusions about my life. I consider myself a good leader in my
career, but
I’m constantly asking myself and my wife, “How am I doing at leading my family?” Recently, as
I lead a group of men through an online life Group, we’re working through a study by John
Eldredge titled, “Wild Life.” In the first couple days of the study, John asks us to identify our one
question about ourselves that we all as men have. Mine comes back to my family in brief
summary as, “Am I leading my family well” or, “Am I doing this right?”
Wells 67
The sphere of Relationships at Home is most identifiable to me at this time in my life
because of my love and affection for my wife of nearly twelve years and my two boys (ages 7
and 4). It is possible, writes Putman and Harrington to grasp the concepts of the gospel but fail
to apply them in the home.
100
In many ways, I get concerned about how I allow my emotions and desires to come into
abrupt conflict with me and my boys when situations get excessively difficult. Paul writes in
Ephesians 6:4, “Fathers, do not provoke your children to anger by the way you treat them.
Rather, bring them up with the discipline and instruction that comes from the Lord.” It’s possible
to grasp the concepts of the gospel but fail to apply them in the home. As a pastor, I’m
continuously reminded of a statement that rings true with me by a former pastor I worked
alongside in Craig Groeschel, “doing the work of God, destroyed the work of God in me.”
Bonhoeffer and The Call to Discipleship
Dietrich Bonhoeffer in his work, “Chapter Two: The Call to Discipleship” walks us through
variety of calls in which again, have unifying overtones of the spheres and stages of discipleship.
I find myself in need of further assistance, growth and submission in the Sphere of Relationship
to God. As Bonhoeffer states, “he wants to follow” referring to the third one called by Jesus, but
he wants to set his own conditions for following. Discipleship is a possibility for him, whose
implementation requires fulfilling conditions and prerequisites.
101
Following Christ means taking
certain steps. The first step, which responds to the call, separates followers from their previous
existence.
102
100
Putman, Jim And Bobby Harrington. 2013. “The Four Spheres.” In DiscipleShift: Five Steps
That Help Your Church To Make Disciples Who Make Disciples, 87. Grand Rapids, MI:
Zondervan.
101
Bonhoeffer, Dietrich. 2003. “The Call To Discipleship.” In Discipleship, edited by John D.
Godsey and Geoffrey B. Kelly, 61. Minneapolis, MN: Augsburg Fortress.
https://tcr1alexanderstreet-com.ezproxy.liberty.edu/philologic/TCRT/navigate/72/1/3/.
102
Ibid., 61.
Wells 68
I’ve found myself at multiple stopping points in my personal journey with Jesus simply
over double standards or contradictions in my leadership and correlating to my personal
discipline/devotion to Jesus. This could be tithing, consistent quiet time, etc. I set my own terms
but lead others a whole different path. This doesn’t work, it will never work and is in direct
violation with my ability to be formidable in the hands of God. “Those called, as Bonhoeffer
reads, must get out of their situations, in which they cannot believe, into a situation where faith
can begin.”
103
Submission to Christ
In submission to Christ, it is not a binding or a lesser distinction of freedom rather, it is
the opposite. It is in Jesus that we find our freedom as we engage with the four spheres and
stages of discipleship. Philippians 2:12-13 reads, “Work hard to show the results of your
salvation, obeying God with deep reverence and fear. For God is working in you, giving you the
desire and the power to do what pleases him.” Deep reverence and fear, when is the last time
you or I experienced fear and conviction brought by the Holy Spirit? Submission is indicative of
fear, in obedience it does, however, bring an aroma of freedom based on our actions of
repentance to Jesus.
As our character is formed, we relinquish all control and allow freedom to begin. Steven
Porter writes in his work, Discipleship That Forms Christian Character,
“In order for us to remain with the one who remains with us, we must listen to his
commands, his words, his instructions on how to live life with him by his Spirit in his
Father’s kingdom. To study and listen to his word is itself a practice or discipline, and it is
an essential part of an overall way of life with Jesus. Indeed, as we practice that
discipline of study and meditation, we learn from him that there are other embodied
practices that bring our wills into alignment with his will.”
104
103
Ibid., 62.
104
Porter, Steven L. "Will/Heart/Spirit: Discipleship that Forms the Christian Character."
Christian Education Journal 16, no. 1 (04, 2019): 79-94,
Wells 69
The third and final stage seeks to answer the question of the disciple, “are you a
multiplying leader?” In other words, are you seeking to make a difference with the purpose and
skillset God has uniquely equipped us with? Likening it to one of my most memorable stops in
ministry, this stage according to the author of this examination would say, Discover, Develop &
Deploy.
Putman & Harrington help us see how synonymous the Four Spheres of Discipleship are
with the Stages of Discipleship. The four spheres range from Relationships to the four key areas:
(1) Relationship with God (2) Relationship with the World (3) Relationship in the Home (4)
Relationships with Gods Family/Church). The core that obviously unites all of the spheres
together is our relationship with God. John 15 indicates that our most important sphere is that
of life in Christ.
The benefit of using the four spheres means that all of these can if done correctly
positively affect and change the believer under Christ’s control. Even as I speak of baptizing
eight individuals this weekend, I’m acutely aware as Putman & Harrington indicate of churches
making the dangerous conclusion of baptizing someone, handing them a bible and invite them
to come back next week. It’s empty, dangerous and typically that person never ends up
following through on that commitment having encountered a different world from off of their
spiritual pedestal. New believers need a pathway to follow and a model to indicate growth and
define purpose. If churches miss this, we as pastors will continue to see more spiritual
consumers rather than what we all seek which is spiritual contributors.
Where Am I In This Process?
This examination of the spheres and stages of discipleship has forced me to identify
some difficult but helpful conclusions about my life. I consider myself a good leader in my
career, but
http://ezproxy.liberty.edu/login?qurl=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.proquest.com
%2Fscholarly-journals%2Fwill-heart-spirit-discipleship-that-forms%2Fdocview
%2F2184328075%2Fse-2%3Faccountid%3D12085.
Wells 70
I’m constantly asking myself and my wife, “How am I doing at leading my family?” Recently, as
I lead a group of men through an online life Group, we’re working through a study by John
Eldredge titled, “Wild Life.” In the first couple days of the study, John asks us to identify our one
question about ourselves that we all as men have. Mine comes back to my family in brief
summary as, “Am I leading my family well” or, “Am I doing this right?”
The sphere of Relationships at Home is most identifiable to me at this time in my life
because of my love and affection for my wife of nearly twelve years and my two boys (ages 7
and 4). It is possible, writes Putman and Harrington to grasp the concepts of the gospel but fail
to apply them in the home.
105
In many ways, I get concerned about how I allow my emotions and desires to come into
abrupt conflict with me and my boys when situations get excessively difficult. Paul writes in
Ephesians 6:4, “Fathers, do not provoke your children to anger by the way you treat them.
Rather, bring them up with the discipline and instruction that comes from the Lord.” It’s possible
to grasp the concepts of the gospel but fail to apply them in the home. As a pastor, I’m
continuously reminded of a statement that rings true with me by a former pastor I worked
alongside in Craig Groeschel, “doing the work of God, destroyed the work of God in me.”
Bonhoeffer and The Call to Discipleship
Dietrich Bonhoeffer in his work, “Chapter Two: The Call to Discipleship” walks us through
variety of calls in which again, have unifying overtones of the spheres and stages of discipleship.
I find myself in need of further assistance, growth and submission in the Sphere of Relationship
to God. As Bonhoeffer states, “he wants to follow” referring to the third one called by Jesus, but
he wants to set his own conditions for following. Discipleship is a possibility for him, whose
105
Putman, Jim And Bobby Harrington. 2013. “The Four Spheres.” In DiscipleShift: Five Steps
That Help Your Church To Make Disciples Who Make Disciples, 87. Grand Rapids, MI:
Zondervan.
Wells 71
implementation requires fulfilling conditions and prerequisites.
106
Following Christ means taking
certain steps. The first step, which responds to the call, separates followers from their previous
existence.
107
I’ve found myself at multiple stopping points in my personal journey with Jesus simply
over double standards or contradictions in my leadership and correlating to my personal
discipline/devotion to Jesus. This could be tithing, consistent quiet time, etc. I set my own terms
but lead others a whole different path. This doesn’t work, it will never work and is in direct
violation with my ability to be formidable in the hands of God. “Those called, as Bonhoeffer
reads, must get out of their situations, in which they cannot believe, into a situation where faith
can begin.”
108
Submission to Christ
In submission to Christ, it is not a binding or a lesser distinction of freedom rather, it is
the opposite. It is in Jesus that we find our freedom as we engage with the four spheres and
stages of discipleship. Philippians 2:12-13 reads, “Work hard to show the results of your
salvation, obeying God with deep reverence and fear. For God is working in you, giving you the
desire and the power to do what pleases him.” Deep reverence and fear, when is the last time
you or I experienced fear and conviction brought by the Holy Spirit? Submission is indicative of
fear, in obedience it does, however, bring an aroma of freedom based on our actions of
repentance to Jesus.
As our character is formed, we relinquish all control and allow freedom to begin. Steven
Porter writes in his work, Discipleship That Forms Christian Character,
106
Bonhoeffer, Dietrich. 2003. “The Call To Discipleship.” In Discipleship, edited by John D.
Godsey and Geoffrey B. Kelly, 61. Minneapolis, MN: Augsburg Fortress.
https://tcr1alexanderstreet-com.ezproxy.liberty.edu/philologic/TCRT/navigate/72/1/3/.
107
Ibid., 61.
108
Ibid., 62.
Wells 72
“In order for us to remain with the one who remains with us, we must listen to his
commands, his words, his instructions on how to live life with him by his Spirit in his
Father’s kingdom. To study and listen to his word is itself a practice or discipline, and it is
an essential part of an overall way of life with Jesus. Indeed, as we practice that
discipline of study and meditation, we learn from him that there are other embodied
practices that bring our wills into alignment with his will.”
109
The third and final stage seeks to answer the question of the disciple, “are you a
multiplying leader?” In other words, are you seeking to make a difference with the purpose and
skillset God has uniquely equipped us with? Likening it to one of my most memorable stops in
ministry, this stage according to the author of this examination would say, Discover, Develop &
Deploy.
Putman & Harrington help us see how synonymous the Four Spheres of Discipleship are
with the Stages of Discipleship. The four spheres range from Relationships to the four key areas:
(1) Relationship with God (2) Relationship with the World (3) Relationship in the Home (4)
Relationships with Gods Family/Church). The core that obviously unites all of the spheres
together is our relationship with God. John 15 indicates that our most important sphere is that
of life in Christ.
The benefit of using the four spheres means that all of these can if done correctly
positively affect and change the believer under Christ’s control. Even as I speak of baptizing
eight individuals this weekend, I’m acutely aware as Putman & Harrington indicate of churches
making the dangerous conclusion of baptizing someone, handing them a bible and invite them
to come back next week. It’s empty, dangerous and typically that person never ends up
following through on that commitment having encountered a different world from off of their
109
Porter, Steven L. "Will/Heart/Spirit: Discipleship that Forms the Christian Character."
Christian Education Journal 16, no. 1 (04, 2019): 79-94,
http://ezproxy.liberty.edu/login?qurl=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.proquest.com
%2Fscholarly-journals%2Fwill-heart-spirit-discipleship-that-forms%2Fdocview
%2F2184328075%2Fse-2%3Faccountid%3D12085.
Wells 73
spiritual pedestal. New believers need a pathway to follow and a model to indicate growth and
define purpose. If churches miss this, we as pastors will continue to see more spiritual
consumers rather than what we all seek which is spiritual contributors.
Where Am I In This Process?
This examination of the spheres and stages of discipleship has forced me to identify
some difficult but helpful conclusions about my life. I consider myself a good leader in my
career, but
I’m constantly asking myself and my wife, “How am I doing at leading my family?” Recently, as
I lead a group of men through an online life Group, we’re working through a study by John
Eldredge titled, “Wild Life.” In the first couple days of the study, John asks us to identify our one
question about ourselves that we all as men have. Mine comes back to my family in brief
summary as, “Am I leading my family well” or, “Am I doing this right?”
The sphere of Relationships at Home is most identifiable to me at this time in my life
because of my love and affection for my wife of nearly twelve years and my two boys (ages 7
and 4). It is possible, writes Putman and Harrington to grasp the concepts of the gospel but fail
to apply them in the home.
110
In many ways, I get concerned about how I allow my emotions and desires to come into
abrupt conflict with me and my boys when situations get excessively difficult. Paul writes in
Ephesians 6:4, “Fathers, do not provoke your children to anger by the way you treat them.
Rather, bring them up with the discipline and instruction that comes from the Lord.” It’s possible
to grasp the concepts of the gospel but fail to apply them in the home. As a pastor, I’m
continuously reminded of a statement that rings true with me by a former pastor I worked
alongside in Craig Groeschel, “doing the work of God, destroyed the work of God in me.”
110
Putman, Jim And Bobby Harrington. 2013. “The Four Spheres.” In DiscipleShift: Five Steps
That Help Your Church To Make Disciples Who Make Disciples, 87. Grand Rapids, MI:
Zondervan.
Wells 74
Bonhoeffer and The Call to Discipleship
Dietrich Bonhoeffer in his work, “Chapter Two: The Call to Discipleship” walks us through
variety of calls in which again, have unifying overtones of the spheres and stages of discipleship.
I find myself in need of further assistance, growth and submission in the Sphere of Relationship
to God. As Bonhoeffer states, “he wants to follow” referring to the third one called by Jesus, but
he wants to set his own conditions for following. Discipleship is a possibility for him, whose
implementation requires fulfilling conditions and prerequisites.
111
Following Christ means taking
certain steps. The first step, which responds to the call, separates followers from their previous
existence.
112
I’ve found myself at multiple stopping points in my personal journey with Jesus simply
over double standards or contradictions in my leadership and correlating to my personal
discipline/devotion to Jesus. This could be tithing, consistent quiet time, etc. I set my own terms
but lead others a whole different path. This doesn’t work, it will never work and is in direct
violation with my ability to be formidable in the hands of God. “Those called, as Bonhoeffer
reads, must get out of their situations, in which they cannot believe, into a situation where faith
can begin.”
113
Submission to Christ
In submission to Christ, it is not a binding or a lesser distinction of freedom rather, it is
the opposite. It is in Jesus that we find our freedom as we engage with the four spheres and
stages of discipleship. Philippians 2:12-13 reads, “Work hard to show the results of your
salvation, obeying God with deep reverence and fear. For God is working in you, giving you the
desire and the power to do what pleases him.” Deep reverence and fear, when is the last time
111
Bonhoeffer, Dietrich. 2003. “The Call To Discipleship.” In Discipleship, edited by John D.
Godsey and Geoffrey B. Kelly, 61. Minneapolis, MN: Augsburg Fortress.
https://tcr1alexanderstreet-com.ezproxy.liberty.edu/philologic/TCRT/navigate/72/1/3/.
112
Ibid., 61.
113
Ibid., 62.
Wells 75
you or I experienced fear and conviction brought by the Holy Spirit? Submission is indicative of
fear, in obedience it does, however, bring an aroma of freedom based on our actions of
repentance to Jesus.
As our character is formed, we relinquish all control and allow freedom to begin. Steven
Porter writes in his work, Discipleship That Forms Christian Character,
“In order for us to remain with the one who remains with us, we must listen to his
commands, his words, his instructions on how to live life with him by his Spirit in his
Father’s kingdom. To study and listen to his word is itself a practice or discipline, and it is
an essential part of an overall way of life with Jesus. Indeed, as we practice that
discipline of study and meditation, we learn from him that there are other embodied
practices that bring our wills into alignment with his will.”
114
The third and final stage seeks to answer the question of the disciple, “are you a
multiplying leader?” In other words, are you seeking to make a difference with the purpose and
skillset God has uniquely equipped us with? Likening it to one of my most memorable stops in
ministry, this stage according to the author of this examination would say, Discover, Develop &
Deploy.
Putman & Harrington help us see how synonymous the Four Spheres of Discipleship are
with the Stages of Discipleship. The four spheres range from Relationships to the four key areas:
(1) Relationship with God (2) Relationship with the World (3) Relationship in the Home (4)
Relationships with Gods Family/Church). The core that obviously unites all of the spheres
together is our relationship with God. John 15 indicates that our most important sphere is that
of life in Christ.
114
Porter, Steven L. "Will/Heart/Spirit: Discipleship that Forms the Christian Character."
Christian Education Journal 16, no. 1 (04, 2019): 79-94,
http://ezproxy.liberty.edu/login?qurl=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.proquest.com
%2Fscholarly-journals%2Fwill-heart-spirit-discipleship-that-forms%2Fdocview
%2F2184328075%2Fse-2%3Faccountid%3D12085.
Wells 76
The benefit of using the four spheres means that all of these can if done correctly
positively affect and change the believer under Christ’s control. Even as I speak of baptizing
eight individuals this weekend, I’m acutely aware as Putman & Harrington indicate of churches
making the dangerous conclusion of baptizing someone, handing them a bible and invite them
to come back next week. It’s empty, dangerous and typically that person never ends up
following through on that commitment having encountered a different world from off of their
spiritual pedestal. New believers need a pathway to follow and a model to indicate growth and
define purpose. If churches miss this, we as pastors will continue to see more spiritual
consumers rather than what we all seek which is spiritual contributors.
Where Am I In This Process?
This examination of the spheres and stages of discipleship has forced me to identify
some difficult but helpful conclusions about my life. I consider myself a good leader in my
career, but
I’m constantly asking myself and my wife, “How am I doing at leading my family?” Recently, as
I lead a group of men through an online life Group, we’re working through a study by John
Eldredge titled, “Wild Life.” In the first couple days of the study, John asks us to identify our one
question about ourselves that we all as men have. Mine comes back to my family in brief
summary as, “Am I leading my family well” or, “Am I doing this right?”
The sphere of Relationships at Home is most identifiable to me at this time in my life
because of my love and affection for my wife of nearly twelve years and my two boys (ages 7
and 4). It is possible, writes Putman and Harrington to grasp the concepts of the gospel but fail
to apply them in the home.
115
115
Putman, Jim And Bobby Harrington. 2013. “The Four Spheres.” In DiscipleShift: Five Steps
That Help Your Church To Make Disciples Who Make Disciples, 87. Grand Rapids, MI:
Zondervan.
Wells 77
In many ways, I get concerned about how I allow my emotions and desires to come into
abrupt conflict with me and my boys when situations get excessively difficult. Paul writes in
Ephesians 6:4, “Fathers, do not provoke your children to anger by the way you treat them.
Rather, bring them up with the discipline and instruction that comes from the Lord.” It’s possible
to grasp the concepts of the gospel but fail to apply them in the home. As a pastor, I’m
continuously reminded of a statement that rings true with me by a former pastor I worked
alongside in Craig Groeschel, “doing the work of God, destroyed the work of God in me.”
Bonhoeffer and The Call to Discipleship
Dietrich Bonhoeffer in his work, “Chapter Two: The Call to Discipleship” walks us through
variety of calls in which again, have unifying overtones of the spheres and stages of discipleship.
I find myself in need of further assistance, growth and submission in the Sphere of Relationship
to God. As Bonhoeffer states, “he wants to follow” referring to the third one called by Jesus, but
he wants to set his own conditions for following. Discipleship is a possibility for him, whose
implementation requires fulfilling conditions and prerequisites.
116
Following Christ means taking
certain steps. The first step, which responds to the call, separates followers from their previous
existence.
117
I’ve found myself at multiple stopping points in my personal journey with Jesus simply
over double standards or contradictions in my leadership and correlating to my personal
discipline/devotion to Jesus. This could be tithing, consistent quiet time, etc. I set my own terms
but lead others a whole different path. This doesn’t work, it will never work and is in direct
violation with my ability to be formidable in the hands of God. “Those called, as Bonhoeffer
116
Bonhoeffer, Dietrich. 2003. “The Call To Discipleship.” In Discipleship, edited by John D.
Godsey and Geoffrey B. Kelly, 61. Minneapolis, MN: Augsburg Fortress.
https://tcr1alexanderstreet-com.ezproxy.liberty.edu/philologic/TCRT/navigate/72/1/3/.
117
Ibid., 61.
Wells 78
reads, must get out of their situations, in which they cannot believe, into a situation where faith
can begin.”
118
Submission to Christ
In submission to Christ, it is not a binding or a lesser distinction of freedom rather, it is
the opposite. It is in Jesus that we find our freedom as we engage with the four spheres and
stages of discipleship. Philippians 2:12-13 reads, “Work hard to show the results of your
salvation, obeying God with deep reverence and fear. For God is working in you, giving you the
desire and the power to do what pleases him.” Deep reverence and fear, when is the last time
you or I experienced fear and conviction brought by the Holy Spirit? Submission is indicative of
fear, in obedience it does, however, bring an aroma of freedom based on our actions of
repentance to Jesus.
As our character is formed, we relinquish all control and allow freedom to begin. Steven
Porter writes in his work, Discipleship That Forms Christian Character,
“In order for us to remain with the one who remains with us, we must listen to his
commands, his words, his instructions on how to live life with him by his Spirit in his
Father’s kingdom. To study and listen to his word is itself a practice or discipline, and it is
an essential part of an overall way of life with Jesus. Indeed, as we practice that
discipline of study and meditation, we learn from him that there are other embodied
practices that bring our wills into alignment with his will.”
119
The third and final stage seeks to answer the question of the disciple, “are you a
multiplying leader?” In other words, are you seeking to make a difference with the purpose and
skillset God has uniquely equipped us with? Likening it to one of my most memorable stops in
118
Ibid., 62.
119
Porter, Steven L. "Will/Heart/Spirit: Discipleship that Forms the Christian Character."
Christian Education Journal 16, no. 1 (04, 2019): 79-94,
http://ezproxy.liberty.edu/login?qurl=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.proquest.com
%2Fscholarly-journals%2Fwill-heart-spirit-discipleship-that-forms%2Fdocview
%2F2184328075%2Fse-2%3Faccountid%3D12085.
Wells 79
ministry, this stage according to the author of this examination would say, Discover, Develop &
Deploy.
Putman & Harrington help us see how synonymous the Four Spheres of Discipleship are
with the Stages of Discipleship. The four spheres range from Relationships to the four key areas:
(1) Relationship with God (2) Relationship with the World (3) Relationship in the Home (4)
Relationships with Gods Family/Church). The core that obviously unites all of the spheres
together is our relationship with God. John 15 indicates that our most important sphere is that
of life in Christ.
The benefit of using the four spheres means that all of these can if done correctly
positively affect and change the believer under Christ’s control. Even as I speak of baptizing
eight individuals this weekend, I’m acutely aware as Putman & Harrington indicate of churches
making the dangerous conclusion of baptizing someone, handing them a bible and invite them
to come back next week. It’s empty, dangerous and typically that person never ends up
following through on that commitment having encountered a different world from off of their
spiritual pedestal. New believers need a pathway to follow and a model to indicate growth and
define purpose. If churches miss this, we as pastors will continue to see more spiritual
consumers rather than what we all seek which is spiritual contributors.
Where Am I In This Process?
This examination of the spheres and stages of discipleship has forced me to identify
some difficult but helpful conclusions about my life. I consider myself a good leader in my
career, but
I’m constantly asking myself and my wife, “How am I doing at leading my family?” Recently, as
I lead a group of men through an online life Group, we’re working through a study by John
Eldredge titled, “Wild Life.” In the first couple days of the study, John asks us to identify our one
question about ourselves that we all as men have. Mine comes back to my family in brief
summary as, “Am I leading my family well” or, “Am I doing this right?”
Wells 80
The sphere of Relationships at Home is most identifiable to me at this time in my life
because of my love and affection for my wife of nearly twelve years and my two boys (ages 7
and 4). It is possible, writes Putman and Harrington to grasp the concepts of the gospel but fail
to apply them in the home.
120
In many ways, I get concerned about how I allow my emotions and desires to come into
abrupt conflict with me and my boys when situations get excessively difficult. Paul writes in
Ephesians 6:4, “Fathers, do not provoke your children to anger by the way you treat them.
Rather, bring them up with the discipline and instruction that comes from the Lord.” It’s possible
to grasp the concepts of the gospel but fail to apply them in the home. As a pastor, I’m
continuously reminded of a statement that rings true with me by a former pastor I worked
alongside in Craig Groeschel, “doing the work of God, destroyed the work of God in me.”
Bonhoeffer and The Call to Discipleship
Dietrich Bonhoeffer in his work, “Chapter Two: The Call to Discipleship” walks us through
variety of calls in which again, have unifying overtones of the spheres and stages of discipleship.
I find myself in need of further assistance, growth and submission in the Sphere of Relationship
to God. As Bonhoeffer states, “he wants to follow” referring to the third one called by Jesus, but
he wants to set his own conditions for following. Discipleship is a possibility for him, whose
implementation requires fulfilling conditions and prerequisites.
121
Following Christ means taking
certain steps. The first step, which responds to the call, separates followers from their previous
existence.
122
120
Putman, Jim And Bobby Harrington. 2013. “The Four Spheres.” In DiscipleShift: Five Steps
That Help Your Church To Make Disciples Who Make Disciples, 87. Grand Rapids, MI:
Zondervan.
121
Bonhoeffer, Dietrich. 2003. “The Call To Discipleship.” In Discipleship, edited by John D.
Godsey and Geoffrey B. Kelly, 61. Minneapolis, MN: Augsburg Fortress.
https://tcr1alexanderstreet-com.ezproxy.liberty.edu/philologic/TCRT/navigate/72/1/3/.
122
Ibid., 61.
Wells 81
I’ve found myself at multiple stopping points in my personal journey with Jesus simply
over double standards or contradictions in my leadership and correlating to my personal
discipline/devotion to Jesus. This could be tithing, consistent quiet time, etc. I set my own terms
but lead others a whole different path. This doesn’t work, it will never work and is in direct
violation with my ability to be formidable in the hands of God. “Those called, as Bonhoeffer
reads, must get out of their situations, in which they cannot believe, into a situation where faith
can begin.”
123
Submission to Christ
In submission to Christ, it is not a binding or a lesser distinction of freedom rather, it is
the opposite. It is in Jesus that we find our freedom as we engage with the four spheres and
stages of discipleship. Philippians 2:12-13 reads, “Work hard to show the results of your
salvation, obeying God with deep reverence and fear. For God is working in you, giving you the
desire and the power to do what pleases him.” Deep reverence and fear, when is the last time
you or I experienced fear and conviction brought by the Holy Spirit? Submission is indicative of
fear, in obedience it does, however, bring an aroma of freedom based on our actions of
repentance to Jesus.
As our character is formed, we relinquish all control and allow freedom to begin. Steven
Porter writes in his work, Discipleship That Forms Christian Character,
“In order for us to remain with the one who remains with us, we must listen to his
commands, his words, his instructions on how to live life with him by his Spirit in his
Father’s kingdom. To study and listen to his word is itself a practice or discipline, and it is
an essential part of an overall way of life with Jesus. Indeed, as we practice that
discipline of study and meditation, we learn from him that there are other embodied
practices that bring our wills into alignment with his will.”
124
123
Ibid., 62.
124
Porter, Steven L. "Will/Heart/Spirit: Discipleship that Forms the Christian Character."
Christian Education Journal 16, no. 1 (04, 2019): 79-94,
Wells 82
The third and final stage seeks to answer the question of the disciple, “are you a
multiplying leader?” In other words, are you seeking to make a difference with the purpose and
skillset God has uniquely equipped us with? Likening it to one of my most memorable stops in
ministry, this stage according to the author of this examination would say, Discover, Develop &
Deploy.
Putman & Harrington help us see how synonymous the Four Spheres of Discipleship are
with the Stages of Discipleship. The four spheres range from Relationships to the four key areas:
(1) Relationship with God (2) Relationship with the World (3) Relationship in the Home (4)
Relationships with Gods Family/Church). The core that obviously unites all of the spheres
together is our relationship with God. John 15 indicates that our most important sphere is that
of life in Christ.
The benefit of using the four spheres means that all of these can if done correctly
positively affect and change the believer under Christ’s control. Even as I speak of baptizing
eight individuals this weekend, I’m acutely aware as Putman & Harrington indicate of churches
making the dangerous conclusion of baptizing someone, handing them a bible and invite them
to come back next week. It’s empty, dangerous and typically that person never ends up
following through on that commitment having encountered a different world from off of their
spiritual pedestal. New believers need a pathway to follow and a model to indicate growth and
define purpose. If churches miss this, we as pastors will continue to see more spiritual
consumers rather than what we all seek which is spiritual contributors.
Where Am I In This Process?
This examination of the spheres and stages of discipleship has forced me to identify
some difficult but helpful conclusions about my life. I consider myself a good leader in my
career, but
http://ezproxy.liberty.edu/login?qurl=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.proquest.com
%2Fscholarly-journals%2Fwill-heart-spirit-discipleship-that-forms%2Fdocview
%2F2184328075%2Fse-2%3Faccountid%3D12085.
Wells 83
I’m constantly asking myself and my wife, “How am I doing at leading my family?” Recently, as
I lead a group of men through an online life Group, we’re working through a study by John
Eldredge titled, “Wild Life.” In the first couple days of the study, John asks us to identify our one
question about ourselves that we all as men have. Mine comes back to my family in brief
summary as, “Am I leading my family well” or, “Am I doing this right?”
The sphere of Relationships at Home is most identifiable to me at this time in my life
because of my love and affection for my wife of nearly twelve years and my two boys (ages 7
and 4). It is possible, writes Putman and Harrington to grasp the concepts of the gospel but fail
to apply them in the home.
125
In many ways, I get concerned about how I allow my emotions and desires to come into
abrupt conflict with me and my boys when situations get excessively difficult. Paul writes in
Ephesians 6:4, “Fathers, do not provoke your children to anger by the way you treat them.
Rather, bring them up with the discipline and instruction that comes from the Lord.” It’s possible
to grasp the concepts of the gospel but fail to apply them in the home. As a pastor, I’m
continuously reminded of a statement that rings true with me by a former pastor I worked
alongside in Craig Groeschel, “doing the work of God, destroyed the work of God in me.”
Bonhoeffer and The Call to Discipleship
Dietrich Bonhoeffer in his work, “Chapter Two: The Call to Discipleship” walks us through
variety of calls in which again, have unifying overtones of the spheres and stages of discipleship.
I find myself in need of further assistance, growth and submission in the Sphere of Relationship
to God. As Bonhoeffer states, “he wants to follow” referring to the third one called by Jesus, but
he wants to set his own conditions for following. Discipleship is a possibility for him, whose
125
Putman, Jim And Bobby Harrington. 2013. “The Four Spheres.” In DiscipleShift: Five Steps
That Help Your Church To Make Disciples Who Make Disciples, 87. Grand Rapids, MI:
Zondervan.
Wells 84
implementation requires fulfilling conditions and prerequisites.
126
Following Christ means taking
certain steps. The first step, which responds to the call, separates followers from their previous
existence.
127
I’ve found myself at multiple stopping points in my personal journey with Jesus simply
over double standards or contradictions in my leadership and correlating to my personal
discipline/devotion to Jesus. This could be tithing, consistent quiet time, etc. I set my own terms
but lead others a whole different path. This doesn’t work, it will never work and is in direct
violation with my ability to be formidable in the hands of God. “Those called, as Bonhoeffer
reads, must get out of their situations, in which they cannot believe, into a situation where faith
can begin.”
128
Submission to Christ
In submission to Christ, it is not a binding or a lesser distinction of freedom rather, it is
the opposite. It is in Jesus that we find our freedom as we engage with the four spheres and
stages of discipleship. Philippians 2:12-13 reads, “Work hard to show the results of your
salvation, obeying God with deep reverence and fear. For God is working in you, giving you the
desire and the power to do what pleases him.” Deep reverence and fear, when is the last time
you or I experienced fear and conviction brought by the Holy Spirit? Submission is indicative of
fear, in obedience it does, however, bring an aroma of freedom based on our actions of
repentance to Jesus.
As our character is formed, we relinquish all control and allow freedom to begin. Steven
Porter writes in his work, Discipleship That Forms Christian Character,
126
Bonhoeffer, Dietrich. 2003. “The Call To Discipleship.” In Discipleship, edited by John D.
Godsey and Geoffrey B. Kelly, 61. Minneapolis, MN: Augsburg Fortress.
https://tcr1alexanderstreet-com.ezproxy.liberty.edu/philologic/TCRT/navigate/72/1/3/.
127
Ibid., 61.
128
Ibid., 62.
Wells 85
“In order for us to remain with the one who remains with us, we must listen to his
commands, his words, his instructions on how to live life with him by his Spirit in his
Father’s kingdom. To study and listen to his word is itself a practice or discipline, and it is
an essential part of an overall way of life with Jesus. Indeed, as we practice that
discipline of study and meditation, we learn from him that there are other embodied
practices that bring our wills into alignment with his will.”
129
The third and final stage seeks to answer the question of the disciple, “are you a
multiplying leader?” In other words, are you seeking to make a difference with the purpose and
skillset God has uniquely equipped us with? Likening it to one of my most memorable stops in
ministry, this stage according to the author of this examination would say, Discover, Develop &
Deploy.
Putman & Harrington help us see how synonymous the Four Spheres of Discipleship are
with the Stages of Discipleship. The four spheres range from Relationships to the four key areas:
(1) Relationship with God (2) Relationship with the World (3) Relationship in the Home (4)
Relationships with Gods Family/Church). The core that obviously unites all of the spheres
together is our relationship with God. John 15 indicates that our most important sphere is that
of life in Christ.
The benefit of using the four spheres means that all of these can if done correctly
positively affect and change the believer under Christ’s control. Even as I speak of baptizing
eight individuals this weekend, I’m acutely aware as Putman & Harrington indicate of churches
making the dangerous conclusion of baptizing someone, handing them a bible and invite them
to come back next week. It’s empty, dangerous and typically that person never ends up
following through on that commitment having encountered a different world from off of their
129
Porter, Steven L. "Will/Heart/Spirit: Discipleship that Forms the Christian Character."
Christian Education Journal 16, no. 1 (04, 2019): 79-94,
http://ezproxy.liberty.edu/login?qurl=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.proquest.com
%2Fscholarly-journals%2Fwill-heart-spirit-discipleship-that-forms%2Fdocview
%2F2184328075%2Fse-2%3Faccountid%3D12085.
Wells 86
spiritual pedestal. New believers need a pathway to follow and a model to indicate growth and
define purpose. If churches miss this, we as pastors will continue to see more spiritual
consumers rather than what we all seek which is spiritual contributors.
Where Am I In This Process?
This examination of the spheres and stages of discipleship has forced me to identify
some difficult but helpful conclusions about my life. I consider myself a good leader in my
career, but
I’m constantly asking myself and my wife, “How am I doing at leading my family?” Recently, as
I lead a group of men through an online life Group, we’re working through a study by John
Eldredge titled, “Wild Life.” In the first couple days of the study, John asks us to identify our one
question about ourselves that we all as men have. Mine comes back to my family in brief
summary as, “Am I leading my family well” or, “Am I doing this right?”
The sphere of Relationships at Home is most identifiable to me at this time in my life
because of my love and affection for my wife of nearly twelve years and my two boys (ages 7
and 4). It is possible, writes Putman and Harrington to grasp the concepts of the gospel but fail
to apply them in the home.
130
In many ways, I get concerned about how I allow my emotions and desires to come into
abrupt conflict with me and my boys when situations get excessively difficult. Paul writes in
Ephesians 6:4, “Fathers, do not provoke your children to anger by the way you treat them.
Rather, bring them up with the discipline and instruction that comes from the Lord.” It’s possible
to grasp the concepts of the gospel but fail to apply them in the home. As a pastor, I’m
continuously reminded of a statement that rings true with me by a former pastor I worked
alongside in Craig Groeschel, “doing the work of God, destroyed the work of God in me.”
130
Putman, Jim And Bobby Harrington. 2013. “The Four Spheres.” In DiscipleShift: Five Steps
That Help Your Church To Make Disciples Who Make Disciples, 87. Grand Rapids, MI:
Zondervan.
Wells 87
Bonhoeffer and The Call to Discipleship
Dietrich Bonhoeffer in his work, “Chapter Two: The Call to Discipleship” walks us through
variety of calls in which again, have unifying overtones of the spheres and stages of discipleship.
I find myself in need of further assistance, growth and submission in the Sphere of Relationship
to God. As Bonhoeffer states, “he wants to follow” referring to the third one called by Jesus, but
he wants to set his own conditions for following. Discipleship is a possibility for him, whose
implementation requires fulfilling conditions and prerequisites.
131
Following Christ means taking
certain steps. The first step, which responds to the call, separates followers from their previous
existence.
132
I’ve found myself at multiple stopping points in my personal journey with Jesus simply
over double standards or contradictions in my leadership and correlating to my personal
discipline/devotion to Jesus. This could be tithing, consistent quiet time, etc. I set my own terms
but lead others a whole different path. This doesn’t work, it will never work and is in direct
violation with my ability to be formidable in the hands of God. “Those called, as Bonhoeffer
reads, must get out of their situations, in which they cannot believe, into a situation where faith
can begin.”
133
Submission to Christ
In submission to Christ, it is not a binding or a lesser distinction of freedom rather, it is
the opposite. It is in Jesus that we find our freedom as we engage with the four spheres and
stages of discipleship. Philippians 2:12-13 reads, “Work hard to show the results of your
salvation, obeying God with deep reverence and fear. For God is working in you, giving you the
desire and the power to do what pleases him.” Deep reverence and fear, when is the last time
131
Bonhoeffer, Dietrich. 2003. “The Call To Discipleship.” In Discipleship, edited by John D.
Godsey and Geoffrey B. Kelly, 61. Minneapolis, MN: Augsburg Fortress.
https://tcr1alexanderstreet-com.ezproxy.liberty.edu/philologic/TCRT/navigate/72/1/3/.
132
Ibid., 61.
133
Ibid., 62.
Wells 88
you or I experienced fear and conviction brought by the Holy Spirit? Submission is indicative of
fear, in obedience it does, however, bring an aroma of freedom based on our actions of
repentance to Jesus.
As our character is formed, we relinquish all control and allow freedom to begin. Steven
Porter writes in his work, Discipleship That Forms Christian Character,
“In order for us to remain with the one who remains with us, we must listen to his
commands, his words, his instructions on how to live life with him by his Spirit in his
Father’s kingdom. To study and listen to his word is itself a practice or discipline, and it is
an essential part of an overall way of life with Jesus. Indeed, as we practice that
discipline of study and meditation, we learn from him that there are other embodied
practices that bring our wills into alignment with his will.”
134
The third and final stage seeks to answer the question of the disciple, “are you a
multiplying leader?” In other words, are you seeking to make a difference with the purpose and
skillset God has uniquely equipped us with? Likening it to one of my most memorable stops in
ministry, this stage according to the author of this examination would say, Discover, Develop &
Deploy.
Putman & Harrington help us see how synonymous the Four Spheres of Discipleship are
with the Stages of Discipleship. The four spheres range from Relationships to the four key areas:
(1) Relationship with God (2) Relationship with the World (3) Relationship in the Home (4)
Relationships with Gods Family/Church). The core that obviously unites all of the spheres
together is our relationship with God. John 15 indicates that our most important sphere is that
of life in Christ.
134
Porter, Steven L. "Will/Heart/Spirit: Discipleship that Forms the Christian Character."
Christian Education Journal 16, no. 1 (04, 2019): 79-94,
http://ezproxy.liberty.edu/login?qurl=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.proquest.com
%2Fscholarly-journals%2Fwill-heart-spirit-discipleship-that-forms%2Fdocview
%2F2184328075%2Fse-2%3Faccountid%3D12085.
Wells 89
The benefit of using the four spheres means that all of these can if done correctly
positively affect and change the believer under Christ’s control. Even as I speak of baptizing
eight individuals this weekend, I’m acutely aware as Putman & Harrington indicate of churches
making the dangerous conclusion of baptizing someone, handing them a bible and invite them
to come back next week. It’s empty, dangerous and typically that person never ends up
following through on that commitment having encountered a different world from off of their
spiritual pedestal. New believers need a pathway to follow and a model to indicate growth and
define purpose. If churches miss this, we as pastors will continue to see more spiritual
consumers rather than what we all seek which is spiritual contributors.
Where Am I In This Process?
This examination of the spheres and stages of discipleship has forced me to identify
some difficult but helpful conclusions about my life. I consider myself a good leader in my
career, but
I’m constantly asking myself and my wife, “How am I doing at leading my family?” Recently, as
I lead a group of men through an online life Group, we’re working through a study by John
Eldredge titled, “Wild Life.” In the first couple days of the study, John asks us to identify our one
question about ourselves that we all as men have. Mine comes back to my family in brief
summary as, “Am I leading my family well” or, “Am I doing this right?”
The sphere of Relationships at Home is most identifiable to me at this time in my life
because of my love and affection for my wife of nearly twelve years and my two boys (ages 7
and 4). It is possible, writes Putman and Harrington to grasp the concepts of the gospel but fail
to apply them in the home.
135
135
Putman, Jim And Bobby Harrington. 2013. “The Four Spheres.” In DiscipleShift: Five Steps
That Help Your Church To Make Disciples Who Make Disciples, 87. Grand Rapids, MI:
Zondervan.
Wells 90
In many ways, I get concerned about how I allow my emotions and desires to come into
abrupt conflict with me and my boys when situations get excessively difficult. Paul writes in
Ephesians 6:4, “Fathers, do not provoke your children to anger by the way you treat them.
Rather, bring them up with the discipline and instruction that comes from the Lord.” It’s possible
to grasp the concepts of the gospel but fail to apply them in the home. As a pastor, I’m
continuously reminded of a statement that rings true with me by a former pastor I worked
alongside in Craig Groeschel, “doing the work of God, destroyed the work of God in me.”
Bonhoeffer and The Call to Discipleship
Dietrich Bonhoeffer in his work, “Chapter Two: The Call to Discipleship” walks us through
variety of calls in which again, have unifying overtones of the spheres and stages of discipleship.
I find myself in need of further assistance, growth and submission in the Sphere of Relationship
to God. As Bonhoeffer states, “he wants to follow” referring to the third one called by Jesus, but
he wants to set his own conditions for following. Discipleship is a possibility for him, whose
implementation requires fulfilling conditions and prerequisites.
136
Following Christ means taking
certain steps. The first step, which responds to the call, separates followers from their previous
existence.
137
I’ve found myself at multiple stopping points in my personal journey with Jesus simply
over double standards or contradictions in my leadership and correlating to my personal
discipline/devotion to Jesus. This could be tithing, consistent quiet time, etc. I set my own terms
but lead others a whole different path. This doesn’t work, it will never work and is in direct
violation with my ability to be formidable in the hands of God. “Those called, as Bonhoeffer
136
Bonhoeffer, Dietrich. 2003. “The Call To Discipleship.” In Discipleship, edited by John D.
Godsey and Geoffrey B. Kelly, 61. Minneapolis, MN: Augsburg Fortress.
https://tcr1alexanderstreet-com.ezproxy.liberty.edu/philologic/TCRT/navigate/72/1/3/.
137
Ibid., 61.
Wells 91
reads, must get out of their situations, in which they cannot believe, into a situation where faith
can begin.”
138
Submission to Christ
In submission to Christ, it is not a binding or a lesser distinction of freedom rather, it is
the opposite. It is in Jesus that we find our freedom as we engage with the four spheres and
stages of discipleship. Philippians 2:12-13 reads, “Work hard to show the results of your
salvation, obeying God with deep reverence and fear. For God is working in you, giving you the
desire and the power to do what pleases him.” Deep reverence and fear, when is the last time
you or I experienced fear and conviction brought by the Holy Spirit? Submission is indicative of
fear, in obedience it does, however, bring an aroma of freedom based on our actions of
repentance to Jesus.
As our character is formed, we relinquish all control and allow freedom to begin. Steven
Porter writes in his work, Discipleship That Forms Christian Character,
“In order for us to remain with the one who remains with us, we must listen to his
commands, his words, his instructions on how to live life with him by his Spirit in his
Father’s kingdom. To study and listen to his word is itself a practice or discipline, and it is
an essential part of an overall way of life with Jesus. Indeed, as we practice that
discipline of study and meditation, we learn from him that there are other embodied
practices that bring our wills into alignment with his will.”
139
The third and final stage seeks to answer the question of the disciple, “are you a
multiplying leader?” In other words, are you seeking to make a difference with the purpose and
skillset God has uniquely equipped us with? Likening it to one of my most memorable stops in
138
Ibid., 62.
139
Porter, Steven L. "Will/Heart/Spirit: Discipleship that Forms the Christian Character."
Christian Education Journal 16, no. 1 (04, 2019): 79-94,
http://ezproxy.liberty.edu/login?qurl=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.proquest.com
%2Fscholarly-journals%2Fwill-heart-spirit-discipleship-that-forms%2Fdocview
%2F2184328075%2Fse-2%3Faccountid%3D12085.
Wells 92
ministry, this stage according to the author of this examination would say, Discover, Develop &
Deploy.
Putman & Harrington help us see how synonymous the Four Spheres of Discipleship are
with the Stages of Discipleship. The four spheres range from Relationships to the four key areas:
(1) Relationship with God (2) Relationship with the World (3) Relationship in the Home (4)
Relationships with Gods Family/Church). The core that obviously unites all of the spheres
together is our relationship with God. John 15 indicates that our most important sphere is that
of life in Christ.
The benefit of using the four spheres means that all of these can if done correctly
positively affect and change the believer under Christ’s control. Even as I speak of baptizing
eight individuals this weekend, I’m acutely aware as Putman & Harrington indicate of churches
making the dangerous conclusion of baptizing someone, handing them a bible and invite them
to come back next week. It’s empty, dangerous and typically that person never ends up
following through on that commitment having encountered a different world from off of their
spiritual pedestal. New believers need a pathway to follow and a model to indicate growth and
define purpose. If churches miss this, we as pastors will continue to see more spiritual
consumers rather than what we all seek which is spiritual contributors.
Where Am I In This Process?
This examination of the spheres and stages of discipleship has forced me to identify
some difficult but helpful conclusions about my life. I consider myself a good leader in my
career, but
I’m constantly asking myself and my wife, “How am I doing at leading my family?” Recently, as
I lead a group of men through an online life Group, we’re working through a study by John
Eldredge titled, “Wild Life.” In the first couple days of the study, John asks us to identify our one
question about ourselves that we all as men have. Mine comes back to my family in brief
summary as, “Am I leading my family well” or, “Am I doing this right?”
Wells 93
The sphere of Relationships at Home is most identifiable to me at this time in my life
because of my love and affection for my wife of nearly twelve years and my two boys (ages 7
and 4). It is possible, writes Putman and Harrington to grasp the concepts of the gospel but fail
to apply them in the home.
140
In many ways, I get concerned about how I allow my emotions and desires to come into
abrupt conflict with me and my boys when situations get excessively difficult. Paul writes in
Ephesians 6:4, “Fathers, do not provoke your children to anger by the way you treat them.
Rather, bring them up with the discipline and instruction that comes from the Lord.” It’s possible
to grasp the concepts of the gospel but fail to apply them in the home. As a pastor, I’m
continuously reminded of a statement that rings true with me by a former pastor I worked
alongside in Craig Groeschel, “doing the work of God, destroyed the work of God in me.”
Bonhoeffer and The Call to Discipleship
Dietrich Bonhoeffer in his work, “Chapter Two: The Call to Discipleship” walks us through
variety of calls in which again, have unifying overtones of the spheres and stages of discipleship.
I find myself in need of further assistance, growth and submission in the Sphere of Relationship
to God. As Bonhoeffer states, “he wants to follow” referring to the third one called by Jesus, but
he wants to set his own conditions for following. Discipleship is a possibility for him, whose
implementation requires fulfilling conditions and prerequisites.
141
Following Christ means taking
certain steps. The first step, which responds to the call, separates followers from their previous
existence.
142
140
Putman, Jim And Bobby Harrington. 2013. “The Four Spheres.” In DiscipleShift: Five Steps
That Help Your Church To Make Disciples Who Make Disciples, 87. Grand Rapids, MI:
Zondervan.
141
Bonhoeffer, Dietrich. 2003. “The Call To Discipleship.” In Discipleship, edited by John D.
Godsey and Geoffrey B. Kelly, 61. Minneapolis, MN: Augsburg Fortress.
https://tcr1alexanderstreet-com.ezproxy.liberty.edu/philologic/TCRT/navigate/72/1/3/.
142
Ibid., 61.
Wells 94
I’ve found myself at multiple stopping points in my personal journey with Jesus simply
over double standards or contradictions in my leadership and correlating to my personal
discipline/devotion to Jesus. This could be tithing, consistent quiet time, etc. I set my own terms
but lead others a whole different path. This doesn’t work, it will never work and is in direct
violation with my ability to be formidable in the hands of God. “Those called, as Bonhoeffer
reads, must get out of their situations, in which they cannot believe, into a situation where faith
can begin.”
143
Submission to Christ
In submission to Christ, it is not a binding or a lesser distinction of freedom rather, it is
the opposite. It is in Jesus that we find our freedom as we engage with the four spheres and
stages of discipleship. Philippians 2:12-13 reads, “Work hard to show the results of your
salvation, obeying God with deep reverence and fear. For God is working in you, giving you the
desire and the power to do what pleases him.” Deep reverence and fear, when is the last time
you or I experienced fear and conviction brought by the Holy Spirit? Submission is indicative of
fear, in obedience it does, however, bring an aroma of freedom based on our actions of
repentance to Jesus.
As our character is formed, we relinquish all control and allow freedom to begin. Steven
Porter writes in his work, Discipleship That Forms Christian Character,
“In order for us to remain with the one who remains with us, we must listen to his
commands, his words, his instructions on how to live life with him by his Spirit in his
Father’s kingdom. To study and listen to his word is itself a practice or discipline, and it is
an essential part of an overall way of life with Jesus. Indeed, as we practice that
discipline of study and meditation, we learn from him that there are other embodied
practices that bring our wills into alignment with his will.”
144
143
Ibid., 62.
144
Porter, Steven L. "Will/Heart/Spirit: Discipleship that Forms the Christian Character."
Christian Education Journal 16, no. 1 (04, 2019): 79-94,
Wells 95
The third and final stage seeks to answer the question of the disciple, “are you a
multiplying leader?” In other words, are you seeking to make a difference with the purpose and
skillset God has uniquely equipped us with? Likening it to one of my most memorable stops in
ministry, this stage according to the author of this examination would say, Discover, Develop &
Deploy.
Putman & Harrington help us see how synonymous the Four Spheres of Discipleship are
with the Stages of Discipleship. The four spheres range from Relationships to the four key areas:
(1) Relationship with God (2) Relationship with the World (3) Relationship in the Home (4)
Relationships with Gods Family/Church). The core that obviously unites all of the spheres
together is our relationship with God. John 15 indicates that our most important sphere is that
of life in Christ.
The benefit of using the four spheres means that all of these can if done correctly
positively affect and change the believer under Christ’s control. Even as I speak of baptizing
eight individuals this weekend, I’m acutely aware as Putman & Harrington indicate of churches
making the dangerous conclusion of baptizing someone, handing them a bible and invite them
to come back next week. It’s empty, dangerous and typically that person never ends up
following through on that commitment having encountered a different world from off of their
spiritual pedestal. New believers need a pathway to follow and a model to indicate growth and
define purpose. If churches miss this, we as pastors will continue to see more spiritual
consumers rather than what we all seek which is spiritual contributors.
Where Am I In This Process?
This examination of the spheres and stages of discipleship has forced me to identify
some difficult but helpful conclusions about my life. I consider myself a good leader in my
career, but
http://ezproxy.liberty.edu/login?qurl=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.proquest.com
%2Fscholarly-journals%2Fwill-heart-spirit-discipleship-that-forms%2Fdocview
%2F2184328075%2Fse-2%3Faccountid%3D12085.
Wells 96
I’m constantly asking myself and my wife, “How am I doing at leading my family?” Recently, as
I lead a group of men through an online life Group, we’re working through a study by John
Eldredge titled, “Wild Life.” In the first couple days of the study, John asks us to identify our one
question about ourselves that we all as men have. Mine comes back to my family in brief
summary as, “Am I leading my family well” or, “Am I doing this right?”
The sphere of Relationships at Home is most identifiable to me at this time in my life
because of my love and affection for my wife of nearly twelve years and my two boys (ages 7
and 4). It is possible, writes Putman and Harrington to grasp the concepts of the gospel but fail
to apply them in the home.
145
In many ways, I get concerned about how I allow my emotions and desires to come into
abrupt conflict with me and my boys when situations get excessively difficult. Paul writes in
Ephesians 6:4, “Fathers, do not provoke your children to anger by the way you treat them.
Rather, bring them up with the discipline and instruction that comes from the Lord.” It’s possible
to grasp the concepts of the gospel but fail to apply them in the home. As a pastor, I’m
continuously reminded of a statement that rings true with me by a former pastor I worked
alongside in Craig Groeschel, “doing the work of God, destroyed the work of God in me.”
Bonhoeffer and The Call to Discipleship
Dietrich Bonhoeffer in his work, “Chapter Two: The Call to Discipleship” walks us through
variety of calls in which again, have unifying overtones of the spheres and stages of discipleship.
I find myself in need of further assistance, growth and submission in the Sphere of Relationship
to God. As Bonhoeffer states, “he wants to follow” referring to the third one called by Jesus, but
he wants to set his own conditions for following. Discipleship is a possibility for him, whose
145
Putman, Jim And Bobby Harrington. 2013. “The Four Spheres.” In DiscipleShift: Five Steps
That Help Your Church To Make Disciples Who Make Disciples, 87. Grand Rapids, MI:
Zondervan.
Wells 97
implementation requires fulfilling conditions and prerequisites.
146
Following Christ means taking
certain steps. The first step, which responds to the call, separates followers from their previous
existence.
147
I’ve found myself at multiple stopping points in my personal journey with Jesus simply
over double standards or contradictions in my leadership and correlating to my personal
discipline/devotion to Jesus. This could be tithing, consistent quiet time, etc. I set my own terms
but lead others a whole different path. This doesn’t work, it will never work and is in direct
violation with my ability to be formidable in the hands of God. “Those called, as Bonhoeffer
reads, must get out of their situations, in which they cannot believe, into a situation where faith
can begin.”
148
Submission to Christ
In submission to Christ, it is not a binding or a lesser distinction of freedom rather, it is
the opposite. It is in Jesus that we find our freedom as we engage with the four spheres and
stages of discipleship. Philippians 2:12-13 reads, “Work hard to show the results of your
salvation, obeying God with deep reverence and fear. For God is working in you, giving you the
desire and the power to do what pleases him.” Deep reverence and fear, when is the last time
you or I experienced fear and conviction brought by the Holy Spirit? Submission is indicative of
fear, in obedience it does, however, bring an aroma of freedom based on our actions of
repentance to Jesus.
As our character is formed, we relinquish all control and allow freedom to begin. Steven
Porter writes in his work, Discipleship That Forms Christian Character,
146
Bonhoeffer, Dietrich. 2003. “The Call To Discipleship.” In Discipleship, edited by John D.
Godsey and Geoffrey B. Kelly, 61. Minneapolis, MN: Augsburg Fortress.
https://tcr1alexanderstreet-com.ezproxy.liberty.edu/philologic/TCRT/navigate/72/1/3/.
147
Ibid., 61.
148
Ibid., 62.
Wells 98
“In order for us to remain with the one who remains with us, we must listen to his
commands, his words, his instructions on how to live life with him by his Spirit in his
Father’s kingdom. To study and listen to his word is itself a practice or discipline, and it is
an essential part of an overall way of life with Jesus. Indeed, as we practice that
discipline of study and meditation, we learn from him that there are other embodied
practices that bring our wills into alignment with his will.”
149
The third and final stage seeks to answer the question of the disciple, “are you a
multiplying leader?” In other words, are you seeking to make a difference with the purpose and
skillset God has uniquely equipped us with? Likening it to one of my most memorable stops in
ministry, this stage according to the author of this examination would say, Discover, Develop &
Deploy.
Putman & Harrington help us see how synonymous the Four Spheres of Discipleship are
with the Stages of Discipleship. The four spheres range from Relationships to the four key areas:
(1) Relationship with God (2) Relationship with the World (3) Relationship in the Home (4)
Relationships with Gods Family/Church). The core that obviously unites all of the spheres
together is our relationship with God. John 15 indicates that our most important sphere is that
of life in Christ.
The benefit of using the four spheres means that all of these can if done correctly
positively affect and change the believer under Christ’s control. Even as I speak of baptizing
eight individuals this weekend, I’m acutely aware as Putman & Harrington indicate of churches
making the dangerous conclusion of baptizing someone, handing them a bible and invite them
to come back next week. It’s empty, dangerous and typically that person never ends up
following through on that commitment having encountered a different world from off of their
149
Porter, Steven L. "Will/Heart/Spirit: Discipleship that Forms the Christian Character."
Christian Education Journal 16, no. 1 (04, 2019): 79-94,
http://ezproxy.liberty.edu/login?qurl=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.proquest.com
%2Fscholarly-journals%2Fwill-heart-spirit-discipleship-that-forms%2Fdocview
%2F2184328075%2Fse-2%3Faccountid%3D12085.
Wells 99
spiritual pedestal. New believers need a pathway to follow and a model to indicate growth and
define purpose. If churches miss this, we as pastors will continue to see more spiritual
consumers rather than what we all seek which is spiritual contributors.
Where Am I In This Process?
This examination of the spheres and stages of discipleship has forced me to identify
some difficult but helpful conclusions about my life. I consider myself a good leader in my
career, but
I’m constantly asking myself and my wife, “How am I doing at leading my family?” Recently, as
I lead a group of men through an online life Group, we’re working through a study by John
Eldredge titled, “Wild Life.” In the first couple days of the study, John asks us to identify our one
question about ourselves that we all as men have. Mine comes back to my family in brief
summary as, “Am I leading my family well” or, “Am I doing this right?”
The sphere of Relationships at Home is most identifiable to me at this time in my life
because of my love and affection for my wife of nearly twelve years and my two boys (ages 7
and 4). It is possible, writes Putman and Harrington to grasp the concepts of the gospel but fail
to apply them in the home.
150
In many ways, I get concerned about how I allow my emotions and desires to come into
abrupt conflict with me and my boys when situations get excessively difficult. Paul writes in
Ephesians 6:4, “Fathers, do not provoke your children to anger by the way you treat them.
Rather, bring them up with the discipline and instruction that comes from the Lord.” It’s possible
to grasp the concepts of the gospel but fail to apply them in the home. As a pastor, I’m
continuously reminded of a statement that rings true with me by a former pastor I worked
alongside in Craig Groeschel, “doing the work of God, destroyed the work of God in me.”
150
Putman, Jim And Bobby Harrington. 2013. “The Four Spheres.” In DiscipleShift: Five Steps
That Help Your Church To Make Disciples Who Make Disciples, 87. Grand Rapids, MI:
Zondervan.
Wells 100
Bonhoeffer and The Call to Discipleship
Dietrich Bonhoeffer in his work, “Chapter Two: The Call to Discipleship” walks us through
variety of calls in which again, have unifying overtones of the spheres and stages of discipleship.
I find myself in need of further assistance, growth and submission in the Sphere of Relationship
to God. As Bonhoeffer states, “he wants to follow” referring to the third one called by Jesus, but
he wants to set his own conditions for following. Discipleship is a possibility for him, whose
implementation requires fulfilling conditions and prerequisites.
151
Following Christ means taking
certain steps. The first step, which responds to the call, separates followers from their previous
existence.
152
I’ve found myself at multiple stopping points in my personal journey with Jesus simply
over double standards or contradictions in my leadership and correlating to my personal
discipline/devotion to Jesus. This could be tithing, consistent quiet time, etc. I set my own terms
but lead others a whole different path. This doesn’t work, it will never work and is in direct
violation with my ability to be formidable in the hands of God. “Those called, as Bonhoeffer
reads, must get out of their situations, in which they cannot believe, into a situation where faith
can begin.”
153
Submission to Christ
In submission to Christ, it is not a binding or a lesser distinction of freedom rather, it is
the opposite. It is in Jesus that we find our freedom as we engage with the four spheres and
stages of discipleship. Philippians 2:12-13 reads, “Work hard to show the results of your
salvation, obeying God with deep reverence and fear. For God is working in you, giving you the
desire and the power to do what pleases him.” Deep reverence and fear, when is the last time
151
Bonhoeffer, Dietrich. 2003. “The Call To Discipleship.” In Discipleship, edited by John D.
Godsey and Geoffrey B. Kelly, 61. Minneapolis, MN: Augsburg Fortress.
https://tcr1alexanderstreet-com.ezproxy.liberty.edu/philologic/TCRT/navigate/72/1/3/.
152
Ibid., 61.
153
Ibid., 62.
Wells 101
you or I experienced fear and conviction brought by the Holy Spirit? Submission is indicative of
fear, in obedience it does, however, bring an aroma of freedom based on our actions of
repentance to Jesus.
As our character is formed, we relinquish all control and allow freedom to begin. Steven
Porter writes in his work, Discipleship That Forms Christian Character,
“In order for us to remain with the one who remains with us, we must listen to his
commands, his words, his instructions on how to live life with him by his Spirit in his
Father’s kingdom. To study and listen to his word is itself a practice or discipline, and it is
an essential part of an overall way of life with Jesus. Indeed, as we practice that
discipline of study and meditation, we learn from him that there are other embodied
practices that bring our wills into alignment with his will.”
154
The third and final stage seeks to answer the question of the disciple, “are you a
multiplying leader?” In other words, are you seeking to make a difference with the purpose and
skillset God has uniquely equipped us with? Likening it to one of my most memorable stops in
ministry, this stage according to the author of this examination would say, Discover, Develop &
Deploy.
Putman & Harrington help us see how synonymous the Four Spheres of Discipleship are
with the Stages of Discipleship. The four spheres range from Relationships to the four key areas:
(1) Relationship with God (2) Relationship with the World (3) Relationship in the Home (4)
Relationships with Gods Family/Church). The core that obviously unites all of the spheres
together is our relationship with God. John 15 indicates that our most important sphere is that
of life in Christ.
154
Porter, Steven L. "Will/Heart/Spirit: Discipleship that Forms the Christian Character."
Christian Education Journal 16, no. 1 (04, 2019): 79-94,
http://ezproxy.liberty.edu/login?qurl=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.proquest.com
%2Fscholarly-journals%2Fwill-heart-spirit-discipleship-that-forms%2Fdocview
%2F2184328075%2Fse-2%3Faccountid%3D12085.
Wells 102
The benefit of using the four spheres means that all of these can if done correctly
positively affect and change the believer under Christ’s control. Even as I speak of baptizing
eight individuals this weekend, I’m acutely aware as Putman & Harrington indicate of churches
making the dangerous conclusion of baptizing someone, handing them a bible and invite them
to come back next week. It’s empty, dangerous and typically that person never ends up
following through on that commitment having encountered a different world from off of their
spiritual pedestal. New believers need a pathway to follow and a model to indicate growth and
define purpose. If churches miss this, we as pastors will continue to see more spiritual
consumers rather than what we all seek which is spiritual contributors.
Where Am I In This Process?
This examination of the spheres and stages of discipleship has forced me to identify
some difficult but helpful conclusions about my life. I consider myself a good leader in my
career, but
I’m constantly asking myself and my wife, “How am I doing at leading my family?” Recently, as
I lead a group of men through an online life Group, we’re working through a study by John
Eldredge titled, “Wild Life.” In the first couple days of the study, John asks us to identify our one
question about ourselves that we all as men have. Mine comes back to my family in brief
summary as, “Am I leading my family well” or, “Am I doing this right?”
The sphere of Relationships at Home is most identifiable to me at this time in my life
because of my love and affection for my wife of nearly twelve years and my two boys (ages 7
and 4). It is possible, writes Putman and Harrington to grasp the concepts of the gospel but fail
to apply them in the home.
155
155
Putman, Jim And Bobby Harrington. 2013. “The Four Spheres.” In DiscipleShift: Five Steps
That Help Your Church To Make Disciples Who Make Disciples, 87. Grand Rapids, MI:
Zondervan.
Wells 103
In many ways, I get concerned about how I allow my emotions and desires to come into
abrupt conflict with me and my boys when situations get excessively difficult. Paul writes in
Ephesians 6:4, “Fathers, do not provoke your children to anger by the way you treat them.
Rather, bring them up with the discipline and instruction that comes from the Lord.” It’s possible
to grasp the concepts of the gospel but fail to apply them in the home. As a pastor, I’m
continuously reminded of a statement that rings true with me by a former pastor I worked
alongside in Craig Groeschel, “doing the work of God, destroyed the work of God in me.”
Bonhoeffer and The Call to Discipleship
Dietrich Bonhoeffer in his work, “Chapter Two: The Call to Discipleship” walks us through
variety of calls in which again, have unifying overtones of the spheres and stages of discipleship.
I find myself in need of further assistance, growth and submission in the Sphere of Relationship
to God. As Bonhoeffer states, “he wants to follow” referring to the third one called by Jesus, but
he wants to set his own conditions for following. Discipleship is a possibility for him, whose
implementation requires fulfilling conditions and prerequisites.
156
Following Christ means taking
certain steps. The first step, which responds to the call, separates followers from their previous
existence.
157
I’ve found myself at multiple stopping points in my personal journey with Jesus simply
over double standards or contradictions in my leadership and correlating to my personal
discipline/devotion to Jesus. This could be tithing, consistent quiet time, etc. I set my own terms
but lead others a whole different path. This doesn’t work, it will never work and is in direct
violation with my ability to be formidable in the hands of God. “Those called, as Bonhoeffer
156
Bonhoeffer, Dietrich. 2003. “The Call To Discipleship.” In Discipleship, edited by John D.
Godsey and Geoffrey B. Kelly, 61. Minneapolis, MN: Augsburg Fortress.
https://tcr1alexanderstreet-com.ezproxy.liberty.edu/philologic/TCRT/navigate/72/1/3/.
157
Ibid., 61.
Wells 104
reads, must get out of their situations, in which they cannot believe, into a situation where faith
can begin.”
158
Submission to Christ
In submission to Christ, it is not a binding or a lesser distinction of freedom rather, it is
the opposite. It is in Jesus that we find our freedom as we engage with the four spheres and
stages of discipleship. Philippians 2:12-13 reads, “Work hard to show the results of your
salvation, obeying God with deep reverence and fear. For God is working in you, giving you the
desire and the power to do what pleases him.” Deep reverence and fear, when is the last time
you or I experienced fear and conviction brought by the Holy Spirit? Submission is indicative of
fear, in obedience it does, however, bring an aroma of freedom based on our actions of
repentance to Jesus.
As our character is formed, we relinquish all control and allow freedom to begin. Steven
Porter writes in his work, Discipleship That Forms Christian Character,
“In order for us to remain with the one who remains with us, we must listen to his
commands, his words, his instructions on how to live life with him by his Spirit in his
Father’s kingdom. To study and listen to his word is itself a practice or discipline, and it is
an essential part of an overall way of life with Jesus. Indeed, as we practice that
discipline of study and meditation, we learn from him that there are other embodied
practices that bring our wills into alignment with his will.”
159
The third and final stage seeks to answer the question of the disciple, “are you a
multiplying leader?” In other words, are you seeking to make a difference with the purpose and
skillset God has uniquely equipped us with? Likening it to one of my most memorable stops in
158
Ibid., 62.
159
Porter, Steven L. "Will/Heart/Spirit: Discipleship that Forms the Christian Character."
Christian Education Journal 16, no. 1 (04, 2019): 79-94,
http://ezproxy.liberty.edu/login?qurl=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.proquest.com
%2Fscholarly-journals%2Fwill-heart-spirit-discipleship-that-forms%2Fdocview
%2F2184328075%2Fse-2%3Faccountid%3D12085.
Wells 105
ministry, this stage according to the author of this examination would say, Discover, Develop &
Deploy.
Putman & Harrington help us see how synonymous the Four Spheres of Discipleship are
with the Stages of Discipleship. The four spheres range from Relationships to the four key areas:
(1) Relationship with God (2) Relationship with the World (3) Relationship in the Home (4)
Relationships with Gods Family/Church). The core that obviously unites all of the spheres
together is our relationship with God. John 15 indicates that our most important sphere is that
of life in Christ.
The benefit of using the four spheres means that all of these can if done correctly
positively affect and change the believer under Christ’s control. Even as I speak of baptizing
eight individuals this weekend, I’m acutely aware as Putman & Harrington indicate of churches
making the dangerous conclusion of baptizing someone, handing them a bible and invite them
to come back next week. It’s empty, dangerous and typically that person never ends up
following through on that commitment having encountered a different world from off of their
spiritual pedestal. New believers need a pathway to follow and a model to indicate growth and
define purpose. If churches miss this, we as pastors will continue to see more spiritual
consumers rather than what we all seek which is spiritual contributors.
Where Am I In This Process?
This examination of the spheres and stages of discipleship has forced me to identify
some difficult but helpful conclusions about my life. I consider myself a good leader in my
career, but
I’m constantly asking myself and my wife, “How am I doing at leading my family?” Recently, as
I lead a group of men through an online life Group, we’re working through a study by John
Eldredge titled, “Wild Life.” In the first couple days of the study, John asks us to identify our one
question about ourselves that we all as men have. Mine comes back to my family in brief
summary as, “Am I leading my family well” or, “Am I doing this right?”
Wells 106
The sphere of Relationships at Home is most identifiable to me at this time in my life
because of my love and affection for my wife of nearly twelve years and my two boys (ages 7
and 4). It is possible, writes Putman and Harrington to grasp the concepts of the gospel but fail
to apply them in the home.
160
In many ways, I get concerned about how I allow my emotions and desires to come into
abrupt conflict with me and my boys when situations get excessively difficult. Paul writes in
Ephesians 6:4, “Fathers, do not provoke your children to anger by the way you treat them.
Rather, bring them up with the discipline and instruction that comes from the Lord.” It’s possible
to grasp the concepts of the gospel but fail to apply them in the home. As a pastor, I’m
continuously reminded of a statement that rings true with me by a former pastor I worked
alongside in Craig Groeschel, “doing the work of God, destroyed the work of God in me.”
Bonhoeffer and The Call to Discipleship
Dietrich Bonhoeffer in his work, “Chapter Two: The Call to Discipleship” walks us through
variety of calls in which again, have unifying overtones of the spheres and stages of discipleship.
I find myself in need of further assistance, growth and submission in the Sphere of Relationship
to God. As Bonhoeffer states, “he wants to follow” referring to the third one called by Jesus, but
he wants to set his own conditions for following. Discipleship is a possibility for him, whose
implementation requires fulfilling conditions and prerequisites.
161
Following Christ means taking
certain steps. The first step, which responds to the call, separates followers from their previous
existence.
162
160
Putman, Jim And Bobby Harrington. 2013. “The Four Spheres.” In DiscipleShift: Five Steps
That Help Your Church To Make Disciples Who Make Disciples, 87. Grand Rapids, MI:
Zondervan.
161
Bonhoeffer, Dietrich. 2003. “The Call To Discipleship.” In Discipleship, edited by John D.
Godsey and Geoffrey B. Kelly, 61. Minneapolis, MN: Augsburg Fortress.
https://tcr1alexanderstreet-com.ezproxy.liberty.edu/philologic/TCRT/navigate/72/1/3/.
162
Ibid., 61.
Wells 107
I’ve found myself at multiple stopping points in my personal journey with Jesus simply
over double standards or contradictions in my leadership and correlating to my personal
discipline/devotion to Jesus. This could be tithing, consistent quiet time, etc. I set my own terms
but lead others a whole different path. This doesn’t work, it will never work and is in direct
violation with my ability to be formidable in the hands of God. “Those called, as Bonhoeffer
reads, must get out of their situations, in which they cannot believe, into a situation where faith
can begin.”
163
Submission to Christ
In submission to Christ, it is not a binding or a lesser distinction of freedom rather, it is
the opposite. It is in Jesus that we find our freedom as we engage with the four spheres and
stages of discipleship. Philippians 2:12-13 reads, “Work hard to show the results of your
salvation, obeying God with deep reverence and fear. For God is working in you, giving you the
desire and the power to do what pleases him.” Deep reverence and fear, when is the last time
you or I experienced fear and conviction brought by the Holy Spirit? Submission is indicative of
fear, in obedience it does, however, bring an aroma of freedom based on our actions of
repentance to Jesus.
As our character is formed, we relinquish all control and allow freedom to begin. Steven
Porter writes in his work, Discipleship That Forms Christian Character,
“In order for us to remain with the one who remains with us, we must listen to his
commands, his words, his instructions on how to live life with him by his Spirit in his
Father’s kingdom. To study and listen to his word is itself a practice or discipline, and it is
an essential part of an overall way of life with Jesus. Indeed, as we practice that
discipline of study and meditation, we learn from him that there are other embodied
practices that bring our wills into alignment with his will.”
164
163
Ibid., 62.
164
Porter, Steven L. "Will/Heart/Spirit: Discipleship that Forms the Christian Character."
Christian Education Journal 16, no. 1 (04, 2019): 79-94,
Wells 108
The third and final stage seeks to answer the question of the disciple, “are you a
multiplying leader?” In other words, are you seeking to make a difference with the purpose and
skillset God has uniquely equipped us with? Likening it to one of my most memorable stops in
ministry, this stage according to the author of this examination would say, Discover, Develop &
Deploy.
Putman & Harrington help us see how synonymous the Four Spheres of Discipleship are
with the Stages of Discipleship. The four spheres range from Relationships to the four key areas:
(1) Relationship with God (2) Relationship with the World (3) Relationship in the Home (4)
Relationships with Gods Family/Church). The core that obviously unites all of the spheres
together is our relationship with God. John 15 indicates that our most important sphere is that
of life in Christ.
The benefit of using the four spheres means that all of these can if done correctly
positively affect and change the believer under Christ’s control. Even as I speak of baptizing
eight individuals this weekend, I’m acutely aware as Putman & Harrington indicate of churches
making the dangerous conclusion of baptizing someone, handing them a bible and invite them
to come back next week. It’s empty, dangerous and typically that person never ends up
following through on that commitment having encountered a different world from off of their
spiritual pedestal. New believers need a pathway to follow and a model to indicate growth and
define purpose. If churches miss this, we as pastors will continue to see more spiritual
consumers rather than what we all seek which is spiritual contributors.
Where Am I In This Process?
This examination of the spheres and stages of discipleship has forced me to identify
some difficult but helpful conclusions about my life. I consider myself a good leader in my
career, but
http://ezproxy.liberty.edu/login?qurl=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.proquest.com
%2Fscholarly-journals%2Fwill-heart-spirit-discipleship-that-forms%2Fdocview
%2F2184328075%2Fse-2%3Faccountid%3D12085.
Wells 109
I’m constantly asking myself and my wife, “How am I doing at leading my family?” Recently, as
I lead a group of men through an online life Group, we’re working through a study by John
Eldredge titled, “Wild Life.” In the first couple days of the study, John asks us to identify our one
question about ourselves that we all as men have. Mine comes back to my family in brief
summary as, “Am I leading my family well” or, “Am I doing this right?”
The sphere of Relationships at Home is most identifiable to me at this time in my life
because of my love and affection for my wife of nearly twelve years and my two boys (ages 7
and 4). It is possible, writes Putman and Harrington to grasp the concepts of the gospel but fail
to apply them in the home.
165
In many ways, I get concerned about how I allow my emotions and desires to come into
abrupt conflict with me and my boys when situations get excessively difficult. Paul writes in
Ephesians 6:4, “Fathers, do not provoke your children to anger by the way you treat them.
Rather, bring them up with the discipline and instruction that comes from the Lord.” It’s possible
to grasp the concepts of the gospel but fail to apply them in the home. As a pastor, I’m
continuously reminded of a statement that rings true with me by a former pastor I worked
alongside in Craig Groeschel, “doing the work of God, destroyed the work of God in me.”
Bonhoeffer and The Call to Discipleship
Dietrich Bonhoeffer in his work, “Chapter Two: The Call to Discipleship” walks us through
variety of calls in which again, have unifying overtones of the spheres and stages of discipleship.
I find myself in need of further assistance, growth and submission in the Sphere of Relationship
to God. As Bonhoeffer states, “he wants to follow” referring to the third one called by Jesus, but
he wants to set his own conditions for following. Discipleship is a possibility for him, whose
165
Putman, Jim And Bobby Harrington. 2013. “The Four Spheres.” In DiscipleShift: Five Steps
That Help Your Church To Make Disciples Who Make Disciples, 87. Grand Rapids, MI:
Zondervan.
Wells 110
implementation requires fulfilling conditions and prerequisites.
166
Following Christ means taking
certain steps. The first step, which responds to the call, separates followers from their previous
existence.
167
I’ve found myself at multiple stopping points in my personal journey with Jesus simply
over double standards or contradictions in my leadership and correlating to my personal
discipline/devotion to Jesus. This could be tithing, consistent quiet time, etc. I set my own terms
but lead others a whole different path. This doesn’t work, it will never work and is in direct
violation with my ability to be formidable in the hands of God. “Those called, as Bonhoeffer
reads, must get out of their situations, in which they cannot believe, into a situation where faith
can begin.”
168
Submission to Christ
In submission to Christ, it is not a binding or a lesser distinction of freedom rather, it is
the opposite. It is in Jesus that we find our freedom as we engage with the four spheres and
stages of discipleship. Philippians 2:12-13 reads, “Work hard to show the results of your
salvation, obeying God with deep reverence and fear. For God is working in you, giving you the
desire and the power to do what pleases him.” Deep reverence and fear, when is the last time
you or I experienced fear and conviction brought by the Holy Spirit? Submission is indicative of
fear, in obedience it does, however, bring an aroma of freedom based on our actions of
repentance to Jesus.
As our character is formed, we relinquish all control and allow freedom to begin. Steven
Porter writes in his work, Discipleship That Forms Christian Character,
166
Bonhoeffer, Dietrich. 2003. “The Call To Discipleship.” In Discipleship, edited by John D.
Godsey and Geoffrey B. Kelly, 61. Minneapolis, MN: Augsburg Fortress.
https://tcr1alexanderstreet-com.ezproxy.liberty.edu/philologic/TCRT/navigate/72/1/3/.
167
Ibid., 61.
168
Ibid., 62.
Wells 111
“In order for us to remain with the one who remains with us, we must listen to his
commands, his words, his instructions on how to live life with him by his Spirit in his
Father’s kingdom. To study and listen to his word is itself a practice or discipline, and it is
an essential part of an overall way of life with Jesus. Indeed, as we practice that
discipline of study and meditation, we learn from him that there are other embodied
practices that bring our wills into alignment with his will.”
169
The third and final stage seeks to answer the question of the disciple, “are you a
multiplying leader?” In other words, are you seeking to make a difference with the purpose and
skillset God has uniquely equipped us with? Likening it to one of my most memorable stops in
ministry, this stage according to the author of this examination would say, Discover, Develop &
Deploy.
Putman & Harrington help us see how synonymous the Four Spheres of Discipleship are
with the Stages of Discipleship. The four spheres range from Relationships to the four key areas:
(1) Relationship with God (2) Relationship with the World (3) Relationship in the Home (4)
Relationships with Gods Family/Church). The core that obviously unites all of the spheres
together is our relationship with God. John 15 indicates that our most important sphere is that
of life in Christ.
The benefit of using the four spheres means that all of these can if done correctly
positively affect and change the believer under Christ’s control. Even as I speak of baptizing
eight individuals this weekend, I’m acutely aware as Putman & Harrington indicate of churches
making the dangerous conclusion of baptizing someone, handing them a bible and invite them
to come back next week. It’s empty, dangerous and typically that person never ends up
following through on that commitment having encountered a different world from off of their
169
Porter, Steven L. "Will/Heart/Spirit: Discipleship that Forms the Christian Character."
Christian Education Journal 16, no. 1 (04, 2019): 79-94,
http://ezproxy.liberty.edu/login?qurl=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.proquest.com
%2Fscholarly-journals%2Fwill-heart-spirit-discipleship-that-forms%2Fdocview
%2F2184328075%2Fse-2%3Faccountid%3D12085.
Wells 112
spiritual pedestal. New believers need a pathway to follow and a model to indicate growth and
define purpose. If churches miss this, we as pastors will continue to see more spiritual
consumers rather than what we all seek which is spiritual contributors.
Where Am I In This Process?
This examination of the spheres and stages of discipleship has forced me to identify
some difficult but helpful conclusions about my life. I consider myself a good leader in my
career, but
I’m constantly asking myself and my wife, “How am I doing at leading my family?” Recently, as
I lead a group of men through an online life Group, we’re working through a study by John
Eldredge titled, “Wild Life.” In the first couple days of the study, John asks us to identify our one
question about ourselves that we all as men have. Mine comes back to my family in brief
summary as, “Am I leading my family well” or, “Am I doing this right?”
The sphere of Relationships at Home is most identifiable to me at this time in my life
because of my love and affection for my wife of nearly twelve years and my two boys (ages 7
and 4). It is possible, writes Putman and Harrington to grasp the concepts of the gospel but fail
to apply them in the home.
170
In many ways, I get concerned about how I allow my emotions and desires to come into
abrupt conflict with me and my boys when situations get excessively difficult. Paul writes in
Ephesians 6:4, “Fathers, do not provoke your children to anger by the way you treat them.
Rather, bring them up with the discipline and instruction that comes from the Lord.” It’s possible
to grasp the concepts of the gospel but fail to apply them in the home. As a pastor, I’m
continuously reminded of a statement that rings true with me by a former pastor I worked
alongside in Craig Groeschel, “doing the work of God, destroyed the work of God in me.”
170
Putman, Jim And Bobby Harrington. 2013. “The Four Spheres.” In DiscipleShift: Five Steps
That Help Your Church To Make Disciples Who Make Disciples, 87. Grand Rapids, MI:
Zondervan.
Wells 113
Bonhoeffer and The Call to Discipleship
Dietrich Bonhoeffer in his work, “Chapter Two: The Call to Discipleship” walks us through
variety of calls in which again, have unifying overtones of the spheres and stages of discipleship.
I find myself in need of further assistance, growth and submission in the Sphere of Relationship
to God. As Bonhoeffer states, “he wants to follow” referring to the third one called by Jesus, but
he wants to set his own conditions for following. Discipleship is a possibility for him, whose
implementation requires fulfilling conditions and prerequisites.
171
Following Christ means taking
certain steps. The first step, which responds to the call, separates followers from their previous
existence.
172
I’ve found myself at multiple stopping points in my personal journey with Jesus simply
over double standards or contradictions in my leadership and correlating to my personal
discipline/devotion to Jesus. This could be tithing, consistent quiet time, etc. I set my own terms
but lead others a whole different path. This doesn’t work, it will never work and is in direct
violation with my ability to be formidable in the hands of God. “Those called, as Bonhoeffer
reads, must get out of their situations, in which they cannot believe, into a situation where faith
can begin.”
173
Submission to Christ
In submission to Christ, it is not a binding or a lesser distinction of freedom rather, it is
the opposite. It is in Jesus that we find our freedom as we engage with the four spheres and
stages of discipleship. Philippians 2:12-13 reads, “Work hard to show the results of your
salvation, obeying God with deep reverence and fear. For God is working in you, giving you the
desire and the power to do what pleases him.” Deep reverence and fear, when is the last time
171
Bonhoeffer, Dietrich. 2003. “The Call To Discipleship.” In Discipleship, edited by John D.
Godsey and Geoffrey B. Kelly, 61. Minneapolis, MN: Augsburg Fortress.
https://tcr1alexanderstreet-com.ezproxy.liberty.edu/philologic/TCRT/navigate/72/1/3/.
172
Ibid., 61.
173
Ibid., 62.
Wells 114
you or I experienced fear and conviction brought by the Holy Spirit? Submission is indicative of
fear, in obedience it does, however, bring an aroma of freedom based on our actions of
repentance to Jesus.
As our character is formed, we relinquish all control and allow freedom to begin. Steven
Porter writes in his work, Discipleship That Forms Christian Character,
“In order for us to remain with the one who remains with us, we must listen to his
commands, his words, his instructions on how to live life with him by his Spirit in his
Father’s kingdom. To study and listen to his word is itself a practice or discipline, and it is
an essential part of an overall way of life with Jesus. Indeed, as we practice that
discipline of study and meditation, we learn from him that there are other embodied
practices that bring our wills into alignment with his will.”
174
The third and final stage seeks to answer the question of the disciple, “are you a
multiplying leader?” In other words, are you seeking to make a difference with the purpose and
skillset God has uniquely equipped us with? Likening it to one of my most memorable stops in
ministry, this stage according to the author of this examination would say, Discover, Develop &
Deploy.
Putman & Harrington help us see how synonymous the Four Spheres of Discipleship are
with the Stages of Discipleship. The four spheres range from Relationships to the four key areas:
(1) Relationship with God (2) Relationship with the World (3) Relationship in the Home (4)
Relationships with Gods Family/Church). The core that obviously unites all of the spheres
together is our relationship with God. John 15 indicates that our most important sphere is that
of life in Christ.
174
Porter, Steven L. "Will/Heart/Spirit: Discipleship that Forms the Christian Character."
Christian Education Journal 16, no. 1 (04, 2019): 79-94,
http://ezproxy.liberty.edu/login?qurl=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.proquest.com
%2Fscholarly-journals%2Fwill-heart-spirit-discipleship-that-forms%2Fdocview
%2F2184328075%2Fse-2%3Faccountid%3D12085.
Wells 115
The benefit of using the four spheres means that all of these can if done correctly
positively affect and change the believer under Christ’s control. Even as I speak of baptizing
eight individuals this weekend, I’m acutely aware as Putman & Harrington indicate of churches
making the dangerous conclusion of baptizing someone, handing them a bible and invite them
to come back next week. It’s empty, dangerous and typically that person never ends up
following through on that commitment having encountered a different world from off of their
spiritual pedestal. New believers need a pathway to follow and a model to indicate growth and
define purpose. If churches miss this, we as pastors will continue to see more spiritual
consumers rather than what we all seek which is spiritual contributors.
Where Am I In This Process?
This examination of the spheres and stages of discipleship has forced me to identify
some difficult but helpful conclusions about my life. I consider myself a good leader in my
career, but
I’m constantly asking myself and my wife, “How am I doing at leading my family?” Recently, as
I lead a group of men through an online life Group, we’re working through a study by John
Eldredge titled, “Wild Life.” In the first couple days of the study, John asks us to identify our one
question about ourselves that we all as men have. Mine comes back to my family in brief
summary as, “Am I leading my family well” or, “Am I doing this right?”
The sphere of Relationships at Home is most identifiable to me at this time in my life
because of my love and affection for my wife of nearly twelve years and my two boys (ages 7
and 4). It is possible, writes Putman and Harrington to grasp the concepts of the gospel but fail
to apply them in the home.
175
175
Putman, Jim And Bobby Harrington. 2013. “The Four Spheres.” In DiscipleShift: Five Steps
That Help Your Church To Make Disciples Who Make Disciples, 87. Grand Rapids, MI:
Zondervan.
Wells 116
In many ways, I get concerned about how I allow my emotions and desires to come into
abrupt conflict with me and my boys when situations get excessively difficult. Paul writes in
Ephesians 6:4, “Fathers, do not provoke your children to anger by the way you treat them.
Rather, bring them up with the discipline and instruction that comes from the Lord.” It’s possible
to grasp the concepts of the gospel but fail to apply them in the home. As a pastor, I’m
continuously reminded of a statement that rings true with me by a former pastor I worked
alongside in Craig Groeschel, “doing the work of God, destroyed the work of God in me.”
Bonhoeffer and The Call to Discipleship
Dietrich Bonhoeffer in his work, “Chapter Two: The Call to Discipleship” walks us through
variety of calls in which again, have unifying overtones of the spheres and stages of discipleship.
I find myself in need of further assistance, growth and submission in the Sphere of Relationship
to God. As Bonhoeffer states, “he wants to follow” referring to the third one called by Jesus, but
he wants to set his own conditions for following. Discipleship is a possibility for him, whose
implementation requires fulfilling conditions and prerequisites.
176
Following Christ means taking
certain steps. The first step, which responds to the call, separates followers from their previous
existence.
177
I’ve found myself at multiple stopping points in my personal journey with Jesus simply
over double standards or contradictions in my leadership and correlating to my personal
discipline/devotion to Jesus. This could be tithing, consistent quiet time, etc. I set my own terms
but lead others a whole different path. This doesn’t work, it will never work and is in direct
violation with my ability to be formidable in the hands of God. “Those called, as Bonhoeffer
176
Bonhoeffer, Dietrich. 2003. “The Call To Discipleship.” In Discipleship, edited by John D.
Godsey and Geoffrey B. Kelly, 61. Minneapolis, MN: Augsburg Fortress.
https://tcr1alexanderstreet-com.ezproxy.liberty.edu/philologic/TCRT/navigate/72/1/3/.
177
Ibid., 61.
Wells 117
reads, must get out of their situations, in which they cannot believe, into a situation where faith
can begin.”
178
Submission to Christ
In submission to Christ, it is not a binding or a lesser distinction of freedom rather, it is
the opposite. It is in Jesus that we find our freedom as we engage with the four spheres and
stages of discipleship. Philippians 2:12-13 reads, “Work hard to show the results of your
salvation, obeying God with deep reverence and fear. For God is working in you, giving you the
desire and the power to do what pleases him.” Deep reverence and fear, when is the last time
you or I experienced fear and conviction brought by the Holy Spirit? Submission is indicative of
fear, in obedience it does, however, bring an aroma of freedom based on our actions of
repentance to Jesus.
As our character is formed, we relinquish all control and allow freedom to begin. Steven
Porter writes in his work, Discipleship That Forms Christian Character,
“In order for us to remain with the one who remains with us, we must listen to his
commands, his words, his instructions on how to live life with him by his Spirit in his
Father’s kingdom. To study and listen to his word is itself a practice or discipline, and it is
an essential part of an overall way of life with Jesus. Indeed, as we practice that
discipline of study and meditation, we learn from him that there are other embodied
practices that bring our wills into alignment with his will.”
179
The third and final stage seeks to answer the question of the disciple, “are you a
multiplying leader?” In other words, are you seeking to make a difference with the purpose and
skillset God has uniquely equipped us with? Likening it to one of my most memorable stops in
178
Ibid., 62.
179
Porter, Steven L. "Will/Heart/Spirit: Discipleship that Forms the Christian Character."
Christian Education Journal 16, no. 1 (04, 2019): 79-94,
http://ezproxy.liberty.edu/login?qurl=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.proquest.com
%2Fscholarly-journals%2Fwill-heart-spirit-discipleship-that-forms%2Fdocview
%2F2184328075%2Fse-2%3Faccountid%3D12085.
Wells 118
ministry, this stage according to the author of this examination would say, Discover, Develop &
Deploy.
Putman & Harrington help us see how synonymous the Four Spheres of Discipleship are
with the Stages of Discipleship. The four spheres range from Relationships to the four key areas:
(1) Relationship with God (2) Relationship with the World (3) Relationship in the Home (4)
Relationships with Gods Family/Church). The core that obviously unites all of the spheres
together is our relationship with God. John 15 indicates that our most important sphere is that
of life in Christ.
The benefit of using the four spheres means that all of these can if done correctly
positively affect and change the believer under Christ’s control. Even as I speak of baptizing
eight individuals this weekend, I’m acutely aware as Putman & Harrington indicate of churches
making the dangerous conclusion of baptizing someone, handing them a bible and invite them
to come back next week. It’s empty, dangerous and typically that person never ends up
following through on that commitment having encountered a different world from off of their
spiritual pedestal. New believers need a pathway to follow and a model to indicate growth and
define purpose. If churches miss this, we as pastors will continue to see more spiritual
consumers rather than what we all seek which is spiritual contributors.
Where Am I In This Process?
This examination of the spheres and stages of discipleship has forced me to identify
some difficult but helpful conclusions about my life. I consider myself a good leader in my
career, but
I’m constantly asking myself and my wife, “How am I doing at leading my family?” Recently, as
I lead a group of men through an online life Group, we’re working through a study by John
Eldredge titled, “Wild Life.” In the first couple days of the study, John asks us to identify our one
question about ourselves that we all as men have. Mine comes back to my family in brief
summary as, “Am I leading my family well” or, “Am I doing this right?”
Wells 119
The sphere of Relationships at Home is most identifiable to me at this time in my life
because of my love and affection for my wife of nearly twelve years and my two boys (ages 7
and 4). It is possible, writes Putman and Harrington to grasp the concepts of the gospel but fail
to apply them in the home.
180
In many ways, I get concerned about how I allow my emotions and desires to come into
abrupt conflict with me and my boys when situations get excessively difficult. Paul writes in
Ephesians 6:4, “Fathers, do not provoke your children to anger by the way you treat them.
Rather, bring them up with the discipline and instruction that comes from the Lord.” It’s possible
to grasp the concepts of the gospel but fail to apply them in the home. As a pastor, I’m
continuously reminded of a statement that rings true with me by a former pastor I worked
alongside in Craig Groeschel, “doing the work of God, destroyed the work of God in me.”
Bonhoeffer and The Call to Discipleship
Dietrich Bonhoeffer in his work, “Chapter Two: The Call to Discipleship” walks us through
variety of calls in which again, have unifying overtones of the spheres and stages of discipleship.
I find myself in need of further assistance, growth and submission in the Sphere of Relationship
to God. As Bonhoeffer states, “he wants to follow” referring to the third one called by Jesus, but
he wants to set his own conditions for following. Discipleship is a possibility for him, whose
implementation requires fulfilling conditions and prerequisites.
181
Following Christ means taking
certain steps. The first step, which responds to the call, separates followers from their previous
existence.
182
180
Putman, Jim And Bobby Harrington. 2013. “The Four Spheres.” In DiscipleShift: Five Steps
That Help Your Church To Make Disciples Who Make Disciples, 87. Grand Rapids, MI:
Zondervan.
181
Bonhoeffer, Dietrich. 2003. “The Call To Discipleship.” In Discipleship, edited by John D.
Godsey and Geoffrey B. Kelly, 61. Minneapolis, MN: Augsburg Fortress.
https://tcr1alexanderstreet-com.ezproxy.liberty.edu/philologic/TCRT/navigate/72/1/3/.
182
Ibid., 61.
Wells 120
I’ve found myself at multiple stopping points in my personal journey with Jesus simply
over double standards or contradictions in my leadership and correlating to my personal
discipline/devotion to Jesus. This could be tithing, consistent quiet time, etc. I set my own terms
but lead others a whole different path. This doesn’t work, it will never work and is in direct
violation with my ability to be formidable in the hands of God. “Those called, as Bonhoeffer
reads, must get out of their situations, in which they cannot believe, into a situation where faith
can begin.”
183
Submission to Christ
In submission to Christ, it is not a binding or a lesser distinction of freedom rather, it is
the opposite. It is in Jesus that we find our freedom as we engage with the four spheres and
stages of discipleship. Philippians 2:12-13 reads, “Work hard to show the results of your
salvation, obeying God with deep reverence and fear. For God is working in you, giving you the
desire and the power to do what pleases him.” Deep reverence and fear, when is the last time
you or I experienced fear and conviction brought by the Holy Spirit? Submission is indicative of
fear, in obedience it does, however, bring an aroma of freedom based on our actions of
repentance to Jesus.
As our character is formed, we relinquish all control and allow freedom to begin. Steven
Porter writes in his work, Discipleship That Forms Christian Character,
“In order for us to remain with the one who remains with us, we must listen to his
commands, his words, his instructions on how to live life with him by his Spirit in his
Father’s kingdom. To study and listen to his word is itself a practice or discipline, and it is
an essential part of an overall way of life with Jesus. Indeed, as we practice that
discipline of study and meditation, we learn from him that there are other embodied
practices that bring our wills into alignment with his will.”
184
183
Ibid., 62.
184
Porter, Steven L. "Will/Heart/Spirit: Discipleship that Forms the Christian Character."
Christian Education Journal 16, no. 1 (04, 2019): 79-94,
Wells 121
The third and final stage seeks to answer the question of the disciple, “are you a
multiplying leader?” In other words, are you seeking to make a difference with the purpose and
skillset God has uniquely equipped us with? Likening it to one of my most memorable stops in
ministry, this stage according to the author of this examination would say, Discover, Develop &
Deploy.
Putman & Harrington help us see how synonymous the Four Spheres of Discipleship are
with the Stages of Discipleship. The four spheres range from Relationships to the four key areas:
(1) Relationship with God (2) Relationship with the World (3) Relationship in the Home (4)
Relationships with Gods Family/Church). The core that obviously unites all of the spheres
together is our relationship with God. John 15 indicates that our most important sphere is that
of life in Christ.
The benefit of using the four spheres means that all of these can if done correctly
positively affect and change the believer under Christ’s control. Even as I speak of baptizing
eight individuals this weekend, I’m acutely aware as Putman & Harrington indicate of churches
making the dangerous conclusion of baptizing someone, handing them a bible and invite them
to come back next week. It’s empty, dangerous and typically that person never ends up
following through on that commitment having encountered a different world from off of their
spiritual pedestal. New believers need a pathway to follow and a model to indicate growth and
define purpose. If churches miss this, we as pastors will continue to see more spiritual
consumers rather than what we all seek which is spiritual contributors.
Where Am I In This Process?
This examination of the spheres and stages of discipleship has forced me to identify
some difficult but helpful conclusions about my life. I consider myself a good leader in my
career, but
http://ezproxy.liberty.edu/login?qurl=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.proquest.com
%2Fscholarly-journals%2Fwill-heart-spirit-discipleship-that-forms%2Fdocview
%2F2184328075%2Fse-2%3Faccountid%3D12085.
Wells 122
I’m constantly asking myself and my wife, “How am I doing at leading my family?” Recently, as
I lead a group of men through an online life Group, we’re working through a study by John
Eldredge titled, “Wild Life.” In the first couple days of the study, John asks us to identify our one
question about ourselves that we all as men have. Mine comes back to my family in brief
summary as, “Am I leading my family well” or, “Am I doing this right?”
The sphere of Relationships at Home is most identifiable to me at this time in my life
because of my love and affection for my wife of nearly twelve years and my two boys (ages 7
and 4). It is possible, writes Putman and Harrington to grasp the concepts of the gospel but fail
to apply them in the home.
185
In many ways, I get concerned about how I allow my emotions and desires to come into
abrupt conflict with me and my boys when situations get excessively difficult. Paul writes in
Ephesians 6:4, “Fathers, do not provoke your children to anger by the way you treat them.
Rather, bring them up with the discipline and instruction that comes from the Lord.” It’s possible
to grasp the concepts of the gospel but fail to apply them in the home. As a pastor, I’m
continuously reminded of a statement that rings true with me by a former pastor I worked
alongside in Craig Groeschel, “doing the work of God, destroyed the work of God in me.”
Bonhoeffer and The Call to Discipleship
Dietrich Bonhoeffer in his work, “Chapter Two: The Call to Discipleship” walks us through
variety of calls in which again, have unifying overtones of the spheres and stages of discipleship.
I find myself in need of further assistance, growth and submission in the Sphere of Relationship
to God. As Bonhoeffer states, “he wants to follow” referring to the third one called by Jesus, but
he wants to set his own conditions for following. Discipleship is a possibility for him, whose
185
Putman, Jim And Bobby Harrington. 2013. “The Four Spheres.” In DiscipleShift: Five Steps
That Help Your Church To Make Disciples Who Make Disciples, 87. Grand Rapids, MI:
Zondervan.
Wells 123
implementation requires fulfilling conditions and prerequisites.
186
Following Christ means taking
certain steps. The first step, which responds to the call, separates followers from their previous
existence.
187
I’ve found myself at multiple stopping points in my personal journey with Jesus simply
over double standards or contradictions in my leadership and correlating to my personal
discipline/devotion to Jesus. This could be tithing, consistent quiet time, etc. I set my own terms
but lead others a whole different path. This doesn’t work, it will never work and is in direct
violation with my ability to be formidable in the hands of God. “Those called, as Bonhoeffer
reads, must get out of their situations, in which they cannot believe, into a situation where faith
can begin.”
188
Submission to Christ
In submission to Christ, it is not a binding or a lesser distinction of freedom rather, it is
the opposite. It is in Jesus that we find our freedom as we engage with the four spheres and
stages of discipleship. Philippians 2:12-13 reads, “Work hard to show the results of your
salvation, obeying God with deep reverence and fear. For God is working in you, giving you the
desire and the power to do what pleases him.” Deep reverence and fear, when is the last time
you or I experienced fear and conviction brought by the Holy Spirit? Submission is indicative of
fear, in obedience it does, however, bring an aroma of freedom based on our actions of
repentance to Jesus.
As our character is formed, we relinquish all control and allow freedom to begin. Steven
Porter writes in his work, Discipleship That Forms Christian Character,
186
Bonhoeffer, Dietrich. 2003. “The Call To Discipleship.” In Discipleship, edited by John D.
Godsey and Geoffrey B. Kelly, 61. Minneapolis, MN: Augsburg Fortress.
https://tcr1alexanderstreet-com.ezproxy.liberty.edu/philologic/TCRT/navigate/72/1/3/.
187
Ibid., 61.
188
Ibid., 62.
Wells 124
“In order for us to remain with the one who remains with us, we must listen to his
commands, his words, his instructions on how to live life with him by his Spirit in his
Father’s kingdom. To study and listen to his word is itself a practice or discipline, and it is
an essential part of an overall way of life with Jesus. Indeed, as we practice that
discipline of study and meditation, we learn from him that there are other embodied
practices that bring our wills into alignment with his will.”
189
The third and final stage seeks to answer the question of the disciple, “are you a
multiplying leader?” In other words, are you seeking to make a difference with the purpose and
skillset God has uniquely equipped us with? Likening it to one of my most memorable stops in
ministry, this stage according to the author of this examination would say, Discover, Develop &
Deploy.
Putman & Harrington help us see how synonymous the Four Spheres of Discipleship are
with the Stages of Discipleship. The four spheres range from Relationships to the four key areas:
(1) Relationship with God (2) Relationship with the World (3) Relationship in the Home (4)
Relationships with Gods Family/Church). The core that obviously unites all of the spheres
together is our relationship with God. John 15 indicates that our most important sphere is that
of life in Christ.
The benefit of using the four spheres means that all of these can if done correctly
positively affect and change the believer under Christ’s control. Even as I speak of baptizing
eight individuals this weekend, I’m acutely aware as Putman & Harrington indicate of churches
making the dangerous conclusion of baptizing someone, handing them a bible and invite them
to come back next week. It’s empty, dangerous and typically that person never ends up
following through on that commitment having encountered a different world from off of their
189
Porter, Steven L. "Will/Heart/Spirit: Discipleship that Forms the Christian Character."
Christian Education Journal 16, no. 1 (04, 2019): 79-94,
http://ezproxy.liberty.edu/login?qurl=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.proquest.com
%2Fscholarly-journals%2Fwill-heart-spirit-discipleship-that-forms%2Fdocview
%2F2184328075%2Fse-2%3Faccountid%3D12085.
Wells 125
spiritual pedestal. New believers need a pathway to follow and a model to indicate growth and
define purpose. If churches miss this, we as pastors will continue to see more spiritual
consumers rather than what we all seek which is spiritual contributors.
Where Am I In This Process?
This examination of the spheres and stages of discipleship has forced me to identify
some difficult but helpful conclusions about my life. I consider myself a good leader in my
career, but
I’m constantly asking myself and my wife, “How am I doing at leading my family?” Recently, as
I lead a group of men through an online life Group, we’re working through a study by John
Eldredge titled, “Wild Life.” In the first couple days of the study, John asks us to identify our one
question about ourselves that we all as men have. Mine comes back to my family in brief
summary as, “Am I leading my family well” or, “Am I doing this right?”
The sphere of Relationships at Home is most identifiable to me at this time in my life
because of my love and affection for my wife of nearly twelve years and my two boys (ages 7
and 4). It is possible, writes Putman and Harrington to grasp the concepts of the gospel but fail
to apply them in the home.
190
In many ways, I get concerned about how I allow my emotions and desires to come into
abrupt conflict with me and my boys when situations get excessively difficult. Paul writes in
Ephesians 6:4, “Fathers, do not provoke your children to anger by the way you treat them.
Rather, bring them up with the discipline and instruction that comes from the Lord.” It’s possible
to grasp the concepts of the gospel but fail to apply them in the home. As a pastor, I’m
continuously reminded of a statement that rings true with me by a former pastor I worked
alongside in Craig Groeschel, “doing the work of God, destroyed the work of God in me.”
190
Putman, Jim And Bobby Harrington. 2013. “The Four Spheres.” In DiscipleShift: Five Steps
That Help Your Church To Make Disciples Who Make Disciples, 87. Grand Rapids, MI:
Zondervan.
Wells 126
Bonhoeffer and The Call to Discipleship
Dietrich Bonhoeffer in his work, “Chapter Two: The Call to Discipleship” walks us through
variety of calls in which again, have unifying overtones of the spheres and stages of discipleship.
I find myself in need of further assistance, growth and submission in the Sphere of Relationship
to God. As Bonhoeffer states, “he wants to follow” referring to the third one called by Jesus, but
he wants to set his own conditions for following. Discipleship is a possibility for him, whose
implementation requires fulfilling conditions and prerequisites.
191
Following Christ means taking
certain steps. The first step, which responds to the call, separates followers from their previous
existence.
192
I’ve found myself at multiple stopping points in my personal journey with Jesus simply
over double standards or contradictions in my leadership and correlating to my personal
discipline/devotion to Jesus. This could be tithing, consistent quiet time, etc. I set my own terms
but lead others a whole different path. This doesn’t work, it will never work and is in direct
violation with my ability to be formidable in the hands of God. “Those called, as Bonhoeffer
reads, must get out of their situations, in which they cannot believe, into a situation where faith
can begin.”
193
Submission to Christ
In submission to Christ, it is not a binding or a lesser distinction of freedom rather, it is
the opposite. It is in Jesus that we find our freedom as we engage with the four spheres and
stages of discipleship. Philippians 2:12-13 reads, “Work hard to show the results of your
salvation, obeying God with deep reverence and fear. For God is working in you, giving you the
desire and the power to do what pleases him.” Deep reverence and fear, when is the last time
191
Bonhoeffer, Dietrich. 2003. “The Call To Discipleship.” In Discipleship, edited by John D.
Godsey and Geoffrey B. Kelly, 61. Minneapolis, MN: Augsburg Fortress.
https://tcr1alexanderstreet-com.ezproxy.liberty.edu/philologic/TCRT/navigate/72/1/3/.
192
Ibid., 61.
193
Ibid., 62.
Wells 127
you or I experienced fear and conviction brought by the Holy Spirit? Submission is indicative of
fear, in obedience it does, however, bring an aroma of freedom based on our actions of
repentance to Jesus.
As our character is formed, we relinquish all control and allow freedom to begin. Steven
Porter writes in his work, Discipleship That Forms Christian Character,
“In order for us to remain with the one who remains with us, we must listen to his
commands, his words, his instructions on how to live life with him by his Spirit in his
Father’s kingdom. To study and listen to his word is itself a practice or discipline, and it is
an essential part of an overall way of life with Jesus. Indeed, as we practice that
discipline of study and meditation, we learn from him that there are other embodied
practices that bring our wills into alignment with his will.”
194
The third and final stage seeks to answer the question of the disciple, “are you a
multiplying leader?” In other words, are you seeking to make a difference with the purpose and
skillset God has uniquely equipped us with? Likening it to one of my most memorable stops in
ministry, this stage according to the author of this examination would say, Discover, Develop &
Deploy.
Putman & Harrington help us see how synonymous the Four Spheres of Discipleship are
with the Stages of Discipleship. The four spheres range from Relationships to the four key areas:
(1) Relationship with God (2) Relationship with the World (3) Relationship in the Home (4)
Relationships with Gods Family/Church). The core that obviously unites all of the spheres
together is our relationship with God. John 15 indicates that our most important sphere is that
of life in Christ.
194
Porter, Steven L. "Will/Heart/Spirit: Discipleship that Forms the Christian Character."
Christian Education Journal 16, no. 1 (04, 2019): 79-94,
http://ezproxy.liberty.edu/login?qurl=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.proquest.com
%2Fscholarly-journals%2Fwill-heart-spirit-discipleship-that-forms%2Fdocview
%2F2184328075%2Fse-2%3Faccountid%3D12085.
Wells 128
The benefit of using the four spheres means that all of these can if done correctly
positively affect and change the believer under Christ’s control. Even as I speak of baptizing
eight individuals this weekend, I’m acutely aware as Putman & Harrington indicate of churches
making the dangerous conclusion of baptizing someone, handing them a bible and invite them
to come back next week. It’s empty, dangerous and typically that person never ends up
following through on that commitment having encountered a different world from off of their
spiritual pedestal. New believers need a pathway to follow and a model to indicate growth and
define purpose. If churches miss this, we as pastors will continue to see more spiritual
consumers rather than what we all seek which is spiritual contributors.
Where Am I In This Process?
This examination of the spheres and stages of discipleship has forced me to identify
some difficult but helpful conclusions about my life. I consider myself a good leader in my
career, but
I’m constantly asking myself and my wife, “How am I doing at leading my family?” Recently, as
I lead a group of men through an online life Group, we’re working through a study by John
Eldredge titled, “Wild Life.” In the first couple days of the study, John asks us to identify our one
question about ourselves that we all as men have. Mine comes back to my family in brief
summary as, “Am I leading my family well” or, “Am I doing this right?”
The sphere of Relationships at Home is most identifiable to me at this time in my life
because of my love and affection for my wife of nearly twelve years and my two boys (ages 7
and 4). It is possible, writes Putman and Harrington to grasp the concepts of the gospel but fail
to apply them in the home.
195
195
Putman, Jim And Bobby Harrington. 2013. “The Four Spheres.” In DiscipleShift: Five Steps
That Help Your Church To Make Disciples Who Make Disciples, 87. Grand Rapids, MI:
Zondervan.
Wells 129
In many ways, I get concerned about how I allow my emotions and desires to come into
abrupt conflict with me and my boys when situations get excessively difficult. Paul writes in
Ephesians 6:4, “Fathers, do not provoke your children to anger by the way you treat them.
Rather, bring them up with the discipline and instruction that comes from the Lord.” It’s possible
to grasp the concepts of the gospel but fail to apply them in the home. As a pastor, I’m
continuously reminded of a statement that rings true with me by a former pastor I worked
alongside in Craig Groeschel, “doing the work of God, destroyed the work of God in me.”
Bonhoeffer and The Call to Discipleship
Dietrich Bonhoeffer in his work, “Chapter Two: The Call to Discipleship” walks us through
variety of calls in which again, have unifying overtones of the spheres and stages of discipleship.
I find myself in need of further assistance, growth and submission in the Sphere of Relationship
to God. As Bonhoeffer states, “he wants to follow” referring to the third one called by Jesus, but
he wants to set his own conditions for following. Discipleship is a possibility for him, whose
implementation requires fulfilling conditions and prerequisites.
196
Following Christ means taking
certain steps. The first step, which responds to the call, separates followers from their previous
existence.
197
I’ve found myself at multiple stopping points in my personal journey with Jesus simply
over double standards or contradictions in my leadership and correlating to my personal
discipline/devotion to Jesus. This could be tithing, consistent quiet time, etc. I set my own terms
but lead others a whole different path. This doesn’t work, it will never work and is in direct
violation with my ability to be formidable in the hands of God. “Those called, as Bonhoeffer
196
Bonhoeffer, Dietrich. 2003. “The Call To Discipleship.” In Discipleship, edited by John D.
Godsey and Geoffrey B. Kelly, 61. Minneapolis, MN: Augsburg Fortress.
https://tcr1alexanderstreet-com.ezproxy.liberty.edu/philologic/TCRT/navigate/72/1/3/.
197
Ibid., 61.
Wells 130
reads, must get out of their situations, in which they cannot believe, into a situation where faith
can begin.”
198
Submission to Christ
In submission to Christ, it is not a binding or a lesser distinction of freedom rather, it is
the opposite. It is in Jesus that we find our freedom as we engage with the four spheres and
stages of discipleship. Philippians 2:12-13 reads, “Work hard to show the results of your
salvation, obeying God with deep reverence and fear. For God is working in you, giving you the
desire and the power to do what pleases him.” Deep reverence and fear, when is the last time
you or I experienced fear and conviction brought by the Holy Spirit? Submission is indicative of
fear, in obedience it does, however, bring an aroma of freedom based on our actions of
repentance to Jesus.
As our character is formed, we relinquish all control and allow freedom to begin. Steven
Porter writes in his work, Discipleship That Forms Christian Character,
“In order for us to remain with the one who remains with us, we must listen to his
commands, his words, his instructions on how to live life with him by his Spirit in his
Father’s kingdom. To study and listen to his word is itself a practice or discipline, and it is
an essential part of an overall way of life with Jesus. Indeed, as we practice that
discipline of study and meditation, we learn from him that there are other embodied
practices that bring our wills into alignment with his will.”
199
The third and final stage seeks to answer the question of the disciple, “are you a
multiplying leader?” In other words, are you seeking to make a difference with the purpose and
skillset God has uniquely equipped us with? Likening it to one of my most memorable stops in
198
Ibid., 62.
199
Porter, Steven L. "Will/Heart/Spirit: Discipleship that Forms the Christian Character."
Christian Education Journal 16, no. 1 (04, 2019): 79-94,
http://ezproxy.liberty.edu/login?qurl=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.proquest.com
%2Fscholarly-journals%2Fwill-heart-spirit-discipleship-that-forms%2Fdocview
%2F2184328075%2Fse-2%3Faccountid%3D12085.
Wells 131
ministry, this stage according to the author of this examination would say, Discover, Develop &
Deploy.
Putman & Harrington help us see how synonymous the Four Spheres of Discipleship are
with the Stages of Discipleship. The four spheres range from Relationships to the four key areas:
(1) Relationship with God (2) Relationship with the World (3) Relationship in the Home (4)
Relationships with Gods Family/Church). The core that obviously unites all of the spheres
together is our relationship with God. John 15 indicates that our most important sphere is that
of life in Christ.
The benefit of using the four spheres means that all of these can if done correctly
positively affect and change the believer under Christ’s control. Even as I speak of baptizing
eight individuals this weekend, I’m acutely aware as Putman & Harrington indicate of churches
making the dangerous conclusion of baptizing someone, handing them a bible and invite them
to come back next week. It’s empty, dangerous and typically that person never ends up
following through on that commitment having encountered a different world from off of their
spiritual pedestal. New believers need a pathway to follow and a model to indicate growth and
define purpose. If churches miss this, we as pastors will continue to see more spiritual
consumers rather than what we all seek which is spiritual contributors.
Where Am I In This Process?
This examination of the spheres and stages of discipleship has forced me to identify
some difficult but helpful conclusions about my life. I consider myself a good leader in my
career, but
I’m constantly asking myself and my wife, “How am I doing at leading my family?” Recently, as
I lead a group of men through an online life Group, we’re working through a study by John
Eldredge titled, “Wild Life.” In the first couple days of the study, John asks us to identify our one
question about ourselves that we all as men have. Mine comes back to my family in brief
summary as, “Am I leading my family well” or, “Am I doing this right?”
Wells 132
The sphere of Relationships at Home is most identifiable to me at this time in my life
because of my love and affection for my wife of nearly twelve years and my two boys (ages 7
and 4). It is possible, writes Putman and Harrington to grasp the concepts of the gospel but fail
to apply them in the home.
200
In many ways, I get concerned about how I allow my emotions and desires to come into
abrupt conflict with me and my boys when situations get excessively difficult. Paul writes in
Ephesians 6:4, “Fathers, do not provoke your children to anger by the way you treat them.
Rather, bring them up with the discipline and instruction that comes from the Lord.” It’s possible
to grasp the concepts of the gospel but fail to apply them in the home. As a pastor, I’m
continuously reminded of a statement that rings true with me by a former pastor I worked
alongside in Craig Groeschel, “doing the work of God, destroyed the work of God in me.”
Bonhoeffer and The Call to Discipleship
Dietrich Bonhoeffer in his work, “Chapter Two: The Call to Discipleship” walks us through
variety of calls in which again, have unifying overtones of the spheres and stages of discipleship.
I find myself in need of further assistance, growth and submission in the Sphere of Relationship
to God. As Bonhoeffer states, “he wants to follow” referring to the third one called by Jesus, but
he wants to set his own conditions for following. Discipleship is a possibility for him, whose
implementation requires fulfilling conditions and prerequisites.
201
Following Christ means taking
certain steps. The first step, which responds to the call, separates followers from their previous
existence.
202
200
Putman, Jim And Bobby Harrington. 2013. “The Four Spheres.” In DiscipleShift: Five Steps
That Help Your Church To Make Disciples Who Make Disciples, 87. Grand Rapids, MI:
Zondervan.
201
Bonhoeffer, Dietrich. 2003. “The Call To Discipleship.” In Discipleship, edited by John D.
Godsey and Geoffrey B. Kelly, 61. Minneapolis, MN: Augsburg Fortress.
https://tcr1alexanderstreet-com.ezproxy.liberty.edu/philologic/TCRT/navigate/72/1/3/.
202
Ibid., 61.
Wells 133
I’ve found myself at multiple stopping points in my personal journey with Jesus simply
over double standards or contradictions in my leadership and correlating to my personal
discipline/devotion to Jesus. This could be tithing, consistent quiet time, etc. I set my own terms
but lead others a whole different path. This doesn’t work, it will never work and is in direct
violation with my ability to be formidable in the hands of God. “Those called, as Bonhoeffer
reads, must get out of their situations, in which they cannot believe, into a situation where faith
can begin.”
203
Submission to Christ
In submission to Christ, it is not a binding or a lesser distinction of freedom rather, it is
the opposite. It is in Jesus that we find our freedom as we engage with the four spheres and
stages of discipleship. Philippians 2:12-13 reads, “Work hard to show the results of your
salvation, obeying God with deep reverence and fear. For God is working in you, giving you the
desire and the power to do what pleases him.” Deep reverence and fear, when is the last time
you or I experienced fear and conviction brought by the Holy Spirit? Submission is indicative of
fear, in obedience it does, however, bring an aroma of freedom based on our actions of
repentance to Jesus.
As our character is formed, we relinquish all control and allow freedom to begin. Steven
Porter writes in his work, Discipleship That Forms Christian Character,
“In order for us to remain with the one who remains with us, we must listen to his
commands, his words, his instructions on how to live life with him by his Spirit in his
Father’s kingdom. To study and listen to his word is itself a practice or discipline, and it is
an essential part of an overall way of life with Jesus. Indeed, as we practice that
discipline of study and meditation, we learn from him that there are other embodied
practices that bring our wills into alignment with his will.”
204
203
Ibid., 62.
204
Porter, Steven L. "Will/Heart/Spirit: Discipleship that Forms the Christian Character."
Christian Education Journal 16, no. 1 (04, 2019): 79-94,
Wells 134
The third and final stage seeks to answer the question of the disciple, “are you a
multiplying leader?” In other words, are you seeking to make a difference with the purpose and
skillset God has uniquely equipped us with? Likening it to one of my most memorable stops in
ministry, this stage according to the author of this examination would say, Discover, Develop &
Deploy.
Putman & Harrington help us see how synonymous the Four Spheres of Discipleship are
with the Stages of Discipleship. The four spheres range from Relationships to the four key areas:
(1) Relationship with God (2) Relationship with the World (3) Relationship in the Home (4)
Relationships with Gods Family/Church). The core that obviously unites all of the spheres
together is our relationship with God. John 15 indicates that our most important sphere is that
of life in Christ.
The benefit of using the four spheres means that all of these can if done correctly
positively affect and change the believer under Christ’s control. Even as I speak of baptizing
eight individuals this weekend, I’m acutely aware as Putman & Harrington indicate of churches
making the dangerous conclusion of baptizing someone, handing them a bible and invite them
to come back next week. It’s empty, dangerous and typically that person never ends up
following through on that commitment having encountered a different world from off of their
spiritual pedestal. New believers need a pathway to follow and a model to indicate growth and
define purpose. If churches miss this, we as pastors will continue to see more spiritual
consumers rather than what we all seek which is spiritual contributors.
Where Am I In This Process?
This examination of the spheres and stages of discipleship has forced me to identify
some difficult but helpful conclusions about my life. I consider myself a good leader in my
career, but
http://ezproxy.liberty.edu/login?qurl=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.proquest.com
%2Fscholarly-journals%2Fwill-heart-spirit-discipleship-that-forms%2Fdocview
%2F2184328075%2Fse-2%3Faccountid%3D12085.
Wells 135
I’m constantly asking myself and my wife, “How am I doing at leading my family?” Recently, as
I lead a group of men through an online life Group, we’re working through a study by John
Eldredge titled, “Wild Life.” In the first couple days of the study, John asks us to identify our one
question about ourselves that we all as men have. Mine comes back to my family in brief
summary as, “Am I leading my family well” or, “Am I doing this right?”
The sphere of Relationships at Home is most identifiable to me at this time in my life
because of my love and affection for my wife of nearly twelve years and my two boys (ages 7
and 4). It is possible, writes Putman and Harrington to grasp the concepts of the gospel but fail
to apply them in the home.
205
In many ways, I get concerned about how I allow my emotions and desires to come into
abrupt conflict with me and my boys when situations get excessively difficult. Paul writes in
Ephesians 6:4, “Fathers, do not provoke your children to anger by the way you treat them.
Rather, bring them up with the discipline and instruction that comes from the Lord.” It’s possible
to grasp the concepts of the gospel but fail to apply them in the home. As a pastor, I’m
continuously reminded of a statement that rings true with me by a former pastor I worked
alongside in Craig Groeschel, “doing the work of God, destroyed the work of God in me.”
Bonhoeffer and The Call to Discipleship
Dietrich Bonhoeffer in his work, “Chapter Two: The Call to Discipleship” walks us through
variety of calls in which again, have unifying overtones of the spheres and stages of discipleship.
I find myself in need of further assistance, growth and submission in the Sphere of Relationship
to God. As Bonhoeffer states, “he wants to follow” referring to the third one called by Jesus, but
he wants to set his own conditions for following. Discipleship is a possibility for him, whose
205
Putman, Jim And Bobby Harrington. 2013. “The Four Spheres.” In DiscipleShift: Five Steps
That Help Your Church To Make Disciples Who Make Disciples, 87. Grand Rapids, MI:
Zondervan.
Wells 136
implementation requires fulfilling conditions and prerequisites.
206
Following Christ means taking
certain steps. The first step, which responds to the call, separates followers from their previous
existence.
207
I’ve found myself at multiple stopping points in my personal journey with Jesus simply
over double standards or contradictions in my leadership and correlating to my personal
discipline/devotion to Jesus. This could be tithing, consistent quiet time, etc. I set my own terms
but lead others a whole different path. This doesn’t work, it will never work and is in direct
violation with my ability to be formidable in the hands of God. “Those called, as Bonhoeffer
reads, must get out of their situations, in which they cannot believe, into a situation where faith
can begin.”
208
Submission to Christ
In submission to Christ, it is not a binding or a lesser distinction of freedom rather, it is
the opposite. It is in Jesus that we find our freedom as we engage with the four spheres and
stages of discipleship. Philippians 2:12-13 reads, “Work hard to show the results of your
salvation, obeying God with deep reverence and fear. For God is working in you, giving you the
desire and the power to do what pleases him.” Deep reverence and fear, when is the last time
you or I experienced fear and conviction brought by the Holy Spirit? Submission is indicative of
fear, in obedience it does, however, bring an aroma of freedom based on our actions of
repentance to Jesus.
As our character is formed, we relinquish all control and allow freedom to begin. Steven
Porter writes in his work, Discipleship That Forms Christian Character,
206
Bonhoeffer, Dietrich. 2003. “The Call To Discipleship.” In Discipleship, edited by John D.
Godsey and Geoffrey B. Kelly, 61. Minneapolis, MN: Augsburg Fortress.
https://tcr1alexanderstreet-com.ezproxy.liberty.edu/philologic/TCRT/navigate/72/1/3/.
207
Ibid., 61.
208
Ibid., 62.
Wells 137
“In order for us to remain with the one who remains with us, we must listen to his
commands, his words, his instructions on how to live life with him by his Spirit in his
Father’s kingdom. To study and listen to his word is itself a practice or discipline, and it is
an essential part of an overall way of life with Jesus. Indeed, as we practice that
discipline of study and meditation, we learn from him that there are other embodied
practices that bring our wills into alignment with his will.”
209
209
Porter, Steven L. "Will/Heart/Spirit: Discipleship that Forms the Christian Character."
Christian Education Journal 16, no. 1 (04, 2019): 79-94,
http://ezproxy.liberty.edu/login?qurl=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.proquest.com
%2Fscholarly-journals%2Fwill-heart-spirit-discipleship-that-forms%2Fdocview
%2F2184328075%2Fse-2%3Faccountid%3D12085.
Wells 138
I’m learning that immersing myself in these instructions and practices are what will truly
align me back on the path of growth in which I belong. I’m not called to stay where I am, or my
leadership and influence will stall out long before I recognize it.
Wells 139
Bibliography
Earley, Dave, and Rod Dempsey. 2013. “Understanding The First Step of Obedience.” In
Disciple Making Is: How To Live The Great Commission With Passion And
Confidence. Nashville, TN: Broadman & Holman.
Putman, Jim And Bobby Harrington. 2013. “The Four Spheres.” In DiscipleShift: Five Steps That
Help Your Church To Make Disciples Who Make Disciples. Grand Rapids, MI: Zondervan.
Bonhoeffer, Dietrich. 2003. “The Call To Discipleship.” In Discipleship, edited by John D. Godsey
and Geoffrey B. Kelly. Minneapolis, MN: Augsburg Fortress. https://tcr1alexanderstreet-
com.ezproxy.liberty.edu/philologic/TCRT/navigate/72/1/3/.
Porter, Steven L. "Will/Heart/Spirit: Discipleship that Forms the Christian Character." Christian
Education Journal 16, no. 1 (04, 2019): 79-94, http://ezproxy.liberty.edu/login?qurl=https
%3A%2F%2Fwww.proquest.com%2Fscholarly-journals%2Fwill-heart-spiritdiscipleship-
that-forms%2Fdocview%2F2184328075%2Fse-2%3Faccountid%3D12085.
