The Power of Replication 

When God made man, he instructed Adam and Eve to ‘be fruitful and multiply’, to replicate themselves in body, in knowledge and in love for God. Replication is inherent in creation—in humans and animals and plants. We are designed to share our passions and our love with others. This is also what makes a mature disciple—the replication of ourselves by making disciples, and going a step further to make disciples who replicate themselves. 

People tend to take on the traits of those around them. Children become like their parents; they copy language, culture and behaviours and this continues into adulthood where people become like their leaders. Leaders must set the example of making disciples, and naturally, but not without intention, the people around them will be making disciples.  We have a Malabar chestnut in our yard, and we were able to harvest its offerings a week ago. Each pod is full of little Malabar chestnuts, each nut designed to become a tree and to likewise bear fruit. Think of every fruit tree, whether a Malabar chestnut or lime tree, a cherry or a gum. Each has the seed in its fruit for replication. Still, they need to be planted and tended to keep producing. We, too, are made to plant seeds and tend to our disciples, helping them to thrive and do the same.  

Our consumer society focuses on need, and there is an element of truth in this. We need to attend to our own needs. A tree without water will wither and die. The watered tree produces fruit. Taking care of our well-being is essential. However, we are missing the point if this stops us from participating in the Great Commission. We are being selfish. There are times to tend to our needs and times to reach out and tend to others. 

Matthew 28:18-20 (NLT) 

18 Jesus came and told his disciples, “I have been given all authority in heaven and on earth. 19 Therefore, go and make disciples of all the nations, baptising them in the name of the Father and the Son and the Holy Spirit. 20 Teach these new disciples to obey all the commands I have given you. And be sure of this: I am with you always, even to the end of the age.”

Reflection Question: 

• How are you doing at making disciples? 
• How are you doing at making disciples who make disciples? 
• Who can help you explore how you are doing here and help you to make disciples who make disciples? If not see https://vervelead.com/mentoring/