Matt 28:19

"Go therefore and make disciples of all the nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit" Matt 28:19

In Ephesians 4: 11, Paul relates the five-fold ministry of the Church as leaders having the ability to be teachers, pastors, evangelists, prophets and apostles. Each having their own function and duties within the Church and while each of us may be used in some area of each of these functions, there seems to be specific gifts given to those whose sole ministry is functioning in at least one of these areas of ministry. Some are teachers, some are pastors, some are prophets, etc. While we are all able to go out and be instruments of salvation for some, the Evangelists seems to have a special ability and calling to perform their special function of preaching the good news and bring into salvation the lost, while the pastor and teacher has other special functions.

Many feel that going out and getting souls saved is the same as going out and making disciples. It is not the same. It is comparatively easy to proclaim salvation from sin, but Jesus comes along and says, "What about you-if you would be My disciple, deny yourself, take up that cross daily, and follow Me."

Being a disciple of Christ may begin with eternal salvation, but discipleship means much much more to a believer in terms of sanctification, and giving over the right to SELF and spiritual growth for the church. While being saved from hell and put right for heaven is an incredible and wonderful event, becoming a disciple of Christ is infinitely grander as we grow into temporal value to God giving up our right to ourselves for Him. Amen and Amen.