Discipleship is not merely knowledge. There is a knowledge component, but it is primarily patterns and processes to practice and pass on. This means that as much is taught by example as by content. The methods and principles of Bible study, the patterns of prayer life and worship, and the encouragement, fellowship, support and equipping of the Body are all being learned as the leaders model. An attitude of servanthood, humility, urgency, faith, passion for extending God’s Kingdom, and love for fellow believers and the lost on the part of the leaders are also vital aspects of this approach. These aspects of discipleship are caught more than taught.

A pair of dove made a nest in our backyard. I watched as the mother bird and the father bird watched over the nest, and the mother bird lay on the egg. One morning I saw that the eggs had hatched, and two baby dove were there. In a couple of days, a crow came by and snatched one of the baby birds. I thought it had taken both, but in the evening, the other baby bird was perched on the fence with its mother.

Then, I began noticing the most fascinating thing over the next few days as I observed the mother bird care for its little one. The mother bird would mimic actions, and then expect the little one to follow. To teach he little dove to fly, the mother dove would flap its wings while still on the ground. When the little one didn’t do what it was showing it to do, the mother dove would peck it. The little one then began flapping its wings. It elevated a bit off the ground. The mother dove would then fly to a spot. The little dove flew awkwardly, but it reached the spot where the mother dove was.

I began reflecting on this tremendous learning experience. The little dove learned by doing. I reflected on my life. I had learned so much from my parents and older siblings just by observing.

I have now realized that discipleship is about modeling for the disciple. Just giving him Bible studies is not enough. His learning comes from watching me and doing what I do.