THE 5 “SETTINGS” OF DISCIPLESHIP
In his book, Discipleship That Fits, Bobby Harrington of
Discipleship.org defines 5 “Contexts” in which Discipleship occurs. We call these “contexts”, “settings”; but they could also be called “spaces” or any other descriptor that fits.
The Public Setting
Exists where people gather in the hundreds around a shared outside resource. In this environment the focus is on engaging with the outside resource, rather than building relational depth with others who also happen to be there.
Jesus modeled this in Matthew 5:1-2, John 6:1-2, and Mark 6:34 as He delivered the Sermon on the Mount, fed the 5,000, and displayed compassion for the shepherd-less. At Lifebrook we have Sunday Morning to utilize this setting of discipleship.
The Social Setting
Is the range between twenty and seventy people, where we share snapshots of who we are and thereby seek to build affinity with others.
Jesus modeled this in Luke 10:1, Matthew 9:9-13, and Luke 19 as He sent the 70 out, ate with Matthew’s tax collector friends, and attended a party at the home of Zacchaeus. At Lifebrook we have our MEN’s and Women’s Ministry, Lifebrook Student Hangout, and our Wednesday Night services.
The Personal Setting
Forms in groups of four to twelve, where we can feel able to share private information between good friends.
Jesus modeled this in John 13, Matthew 8:23-27, and Mark 8:27-33 as He washed the disciples feet, calmed the storm around the disciples boat, and the confession and rebuking of Peter. At Lifebrook our Alpha groups and Emotionally Healthy Discipleship tables are specifically designed to be no larger than 8 people. We also have several small groups that meet in homes and coffee shops.
The Transparent Setting
Is when you are with just one or two others, making a group of two to four people, your closest of relationships. This setting is characterized by complete openness and candor, nothing is held back.
Jesus modeled this in Luke 9:28-36, Mark 10:35-45, and Matthew 26:36-38 during Transfiguration, as He handled James and John’s request, and as He requested prayer support at Gethsemane.
The Divine Setting
Represents God’s direct interactions with us, His people, at a one-on-one level. Our focus shifts from cultivating relationships with others to being alone with our Creator and Redeemer as He encounters us in our inner world.
Jesus modeled this in Mark 1:36, Luke 6:12, and John 5:19 as He woke early to pray, sought God the Father before calling the Twelve, and as He does only what He sees the Father doing.