Ordinary Discipleship: How God Wires Us for the Adventure of Transformation

Minister Cruickshank (coauthor, Activating 5Q) suggests ways for Christians to lead nonbelievers to Jesus in this mixed offering. Charting a path for Christians who wish to mentor disciples, the author argues that “God hardwired our brains for transformation,” and so “anyone can help anyone else change.” Cruickshank uses the “hero’s journey” to model this evolution, explaining how ordinary Christians first need to “answer the call” to disciple another person—and acknowledges that while this can be an intimidating prospect, only Jesus can “decide that you are qualified” to lead. After accepting the call, it’s important to connect with like-minded disciple-makers for support. Eventually, disciple-makers will reach the “struggle” at the heart of the quest, sometimes in the form of internal narcissism (making the discipleship about one’s ego, as a way to “prove” their role in the church) or desire for power (focusing on having a “follower” rather than serving God). One must be vigilant in identifying these impulses and redirect themselves toward God’s mission, she reminds. Despite an occasional lack of argumentative clarity, this entry provides useful motivation to believers, and delivers it in a tone that’s earnest but not cloying. Christians aiming to deepen their faith practice should take a look. (May)