Method of Discipleship - Timothy v small/cell group
In our modern method/school of disciple training, there are 2 major/popular systems.
One known as "Timothy" which is one to one discipleship; after the understanding that this is how Paul trained his disciples as he was so close to Timothy.
The other known as small group or cell group discipleship; after the understanding that Christ Jesus had his group of 12 disciples divided into 3 groups of 4 each; having a more prominent disciple as leader in each group.
Both schools are biased and short sighted, failing to realise the existence of the other method in scriptures/the Word of God. Both have their use and place.
As the Sabbath is for men; so situation and method are there for the edfication of disciples. Never should disciples be instituted for a particular method.
In the letters to Timothy and Titus, we see that Paul had more than one Timothy close to him enough to be regarded as his son. Paul also had discipled and worked with more than one believer.
He worked with Aaius, Quartus, and Tertius while being with Timothy (Rom 16).
This also demonstrate that the method of one to one is not to be permanent, the only means of discipleship. Timothy was brought into a large group at times.
The result of much affection and understanding from partnership of a pair is obvious in 1, 2Timothy. Paul also worked with Barnabas.
The success of group work is also seen between Aquila and Priscila with Apollos, and with Paul. Paul with John Mark and Demas.
The example of Paul with Demas demonstrate to us that baptism and adherence to the creed and the bible is no guarantee for permanent fellowship. Small groups do not safeguard falling away. Demas left later on. And in the case of Christ, Judas left the group of 12 and his own group of 4 to betray our Lord.
The rule of discipleship is, therefore, not about the number of people in a group, but in providing the best at the time, and be ready for changes and new lessons/training.
Christ is the ultimate leader and teacher. Institution, no matter how big or small, is not. They are there as a milestone and provide opportunities.
We pray that they warm, revive and encourage your hearts, to serve the Lord with all your strength, all your mind and all your soul / life.
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