Discipleshift
In the next edition of this Framework of Apprenticeship series, I would like to show you another framework by Jim Putnam in his book Discipleshift. Just a refresher, I defined a framework as a concept to help one grow into the image of Jesus that is both (1) general enough steer a local church in the right direction and (2) specific enough to customize the process for each individual. Putnam’s framework of discipleship seems to fit this category as it’s also easy to understand. He says that the definition of a disciple needs to be biblical and clear. I agree.
Putnam describes three key attributes of a disciple based on Matthew 4:19. In this scripture, Jesus is calling Peter and Andrew to become His disciples by the Sea of Galilee. Jesus saw the two brothers at work fishing when he said the words that would change their lives forever.
“And he said to them, ‘Follow me, and I will make you fishers of men.'” -Matthew 4:19
In this framework of discipleship, it is biblical (it’s straight from Jesus’ mouth) and clear (there’s no question on what they should do). So let’s dive in to the three key attributes of a disciple based on Matthew 4:19.
1. Follow Me
I love that Putnam breaks down the phrase into three sections for us to understand. First, the call to follow Jesus is crucial. This is primarily a mental acceptance of Jesus as Savior and Lord. This means one starts the journey of discipleship in a personal and communal decision to follow Christ as King. It makes sense. In order to be conformed into the image of Jesus, you first need to intentionally create the mental space in your head to have a vision and desire to become like Him.
2. And I Will Make You
After the mental acceptance to follow Jesus, the next step is primarily a spiritual response from our heart. Putnam explains that one needs to be transformed into the likeness of Jesus from the inside out. The thoughts, desire, and will of the apprentice of Jesus must seek the inner work of Christ. The disciple then desires to seek a biblical community, learn more about Jesus and the Bible, deny the self, and confess sin.
3. Fishers of Men
Christianity isn’t just self-help. The last thing Jesus told us to do was to go and “make disciples of all nations…” (Matthew 28:19) The Great Commission is to fulfill the mission of Christ to share the Good News with all. We are called to replicate our discipleship to those who accept the call themselves. This is the ultimate “call to action” for the Christian.
HEAD + HEART + HANDS
In summary, according to Putnam’s discipleship framework, a disciple is a person who (1) is following Christ [head], (2) is being changed by Christ [heart], and (3) is committed to the mission of Christ [hands]. I love that this model can be simplified into three “H’s” – head, heart, and hands – relating to the body and how different parts work together. In this way, it becomes easily memorable and replicable.
In Discipleshift, Putnam also introduces other ideas like The Five Stages of Discipleship. While those ideas were great, my understanding of his framework existed within the 3-step Matthew 4:19 model.
What do you think of this model of apprenticeship under Jesus? Is it missing anything? Does it need to be expanded upon? What do you like about it? I would love to know. Leave a comment below or send me a DM or comment on instagram @apprenticeofjesus.
Practical Challenge
Grab a journal and pretend you are writing out a discipleship plan for a loved one who wants to follow Jesus. Write it out. What does it look like? What is it missing?
Matt Garcia
Matt is the creator of this website and curates resources on spiritual formation. He is a husband of Jesika and a father of 4 children. He also helps lead a house church. Follow him on Instagram to see what he's up to.