The Difference between Shepherding and Discipleship
Gary DeLashmutt
1 Corinthians 1:27
There are two types of relationship ministries we find in scripture. The first is shepherding and the second is discipleship. Shepherding includes helping people with their growth, having unconditional expectations, and is ongoing. Discipleship is similar to shepherding but it is selective and has conditional expectations. It is through shepherding that you find the people in your church who are true disciples. Some of the signs that someone is ready to be discipled include: a desire to grown and serve; an honesty about the moral areas in their life that God is trying to change; willingness to submit to God's leadership in their life; a desire to serve and love others; and they are already taking active steps of faith.