A Theological Manual on Practical Discipleship in the Mennonite Church

It is the opinion of the author that the Mennonite Church Statement of Faith is effective in explaining what it believes, but less so in communicating how a believer puts his or her faith into practice. Therefore, some pastors and church leaders in the Mennonite Church have attested to low commitment levels and the prevalence of sin amongst believers, and as a result are searching for ways to remedy the situation.

This thesis project develops a thirteen-week teaching manual for pastors and church leaders with a study guide for each week's lesson. It will combine theology, tradition, and practice, so as to build a disciplined foundation into the life of a follower of Jesus Christ. Looking at God's Word and will for humanity, consideration will be given for the mandate of practical discipleship. The finished product will help a new believer or seasoned Christian grow in his or her relationship to Christ.

This project begins with an evaluation of the Mennonite Confession of Faith and the varied approaches to discipleship within the Mennonite Church. Research includes personal interviews with church leaders, studies in discipleship, and a basic overview of what constitutes effective disciple-making in the church today. An analysis was made as a result of the research to the type of teaching approach necessary and needed in the Mennonite Church.