As Jesus concentrated on his selected team, we can see and understand that He saw the need for discipleship capacity prior to winning souls in mass numbers.  These men had quite a mission in front of them.  They were to lead and to then prepare other leaders and teachers in a way that multiplied the capacity to disciple those who would accept Jesus as their savior.

Great attention was given to the few in preparation for salvation of the multitudes.

Without this focused preparation for discipleship, our evangelism might very well bring people forward to accept Christ, but local churches won't be established that can sustain and multiply the fruit for the kingdom.

There is quite a bit of concern about this in many mission organizations.

• Without adequate discipleship for new believers, the gospel will have limited momentum.
   
• With discipleship, new believers grow in the faith.  They become participants in sharing the gospel message.  The local church becomes powerfully enabled to gain momentum for Christ and to grow the body of believers within the communities of a region.

The best attitude for the beautiful work of evangelism is that you are working for Christ's church.  Each person's salvation is the most important step in his or her life.  In one sense it is the greatest accomplishment.  At the same time, though, it is a beginning – the start of a new and exciting walk with Christ.  Discipleship within the context of a biblically strong local church is critical to that walk and the spiritual growth of each new believer.

Focus fully on God's desire to save souls.  It is only by His Grace that we are saved, and have the wonderful opportunity to serve together as the Body of Christ.  Guide each new believer into relationship within the local church.

Many thanks for your interest during these months of reflection on the exciting and critical tasks of evangelism.

May God bless you as you reach out to the lost with the Good News of His Son, our Savior, Christ Jesus, 

Larry