Leading From the Front – Principle #3

Dear Disciple-first Friends,

In our journey through the 10 Key Disciple Making Principles, we’ve reached one of the most challenging, yet transformative principles… Principle #3 makes it clear that actions speak louder than words and leaders must model disciple-making.

Think about it–how many times have we heard the phrase, “Do as I say, not as I do”?

Jesus took the opposite approach. He simply said, “Come and follow me.”

The Apostle Paul echoed this when he encouraged others to “watch what I do and do what I do.”

The truth is disciple-making is better caught than taught. The most effective disciple-making movements worldwide are led by people who lead from the front–those who demonstrate what a disciple’s life actually looks like. They don’t just talk about sharing the gospel; they show others how to do it. They don’t just discuss prayer; they model it in real-time.

As Paul wrote to Timothy, “That which you have heard me say in the presence of many witnesses, entrust to reliable people who will be able to teach others.” This powerful chain of discipleship starts with one person living out what they’re teaching.

Here’s the encouraging part: You don’t have to be perfect to start. The key is simply beginning and being willing to “fail forward.” Whether you’re a church leader or someone serious about their faith, it starts with looking in the mirror and asking, “Am I modeling what true discipleship looks like?”

Are you ready to dive deeper into this principle?

CLICK HERE to watch our full video discussion on Principle #3, Leading From the Front.

Remember, the greatest impact often comes not from what we say, but from who we are and what we do. This week, we challenge you to take one step toward being the kind of disciple you want others to become.

Walking the path with you,

Josh Howard, Director of Vision and Mobilization

Discipleship.org

P.S. Don’t forget to check out our practical resources for putting this principle into action: