As Christians, we do not have a choice but to make disciples. It is literally our job description.
However, one of the hardest parts of discipleship is not just who we are willing to minister to, but who God is actually highlighting to us. The Spirit leads us to people — not our own preference, guilt, or sense of obligation. That being said, the Scriptures do give us some clear warnings about people.
Here are four examples of people we need to be on guard with:
1. The Unrepentant (or the willfully disobedient)
Paul says in 1 Corinthians 5.11 not to associate with someone who calls themselves a brother but shows a pattern of willfully giving into known unhealthy behaviors and sins. With this type of person, ask God for discernment to see if they truly desire a life change before investing deeply in them. This may include asking the Holy Spirit to reveal what is motivating this person’s struggles.
2. The Manipulative (or the divisive, gossip, slanderer)
Titus 3.10 says to reject a divisive person after warning them twice. So, with this person, make sure you have clearly warned them. Then establish clear boundaries with these people who repeatedly show a pattern of being divisive.
3. The Drainer (co-dependent)
Proverbs 25.17 warns, “Let your foot rarely be in your neighbor’s house, lest he become weary of you and hate you.” Co-dependent people always become disillusioned by those they are first enamored with. So do not get snared by their flattery. Limit your time with those who constantly pull on you without demonstrating real maturity or growth from them.
4. Those the Holy Spirit Does Not Highlight
Even Jesus didn’t minister to everyone. In John 5.19, he said he only did what he saw the Father doing. Ultimately, we need to ask who the Holy Spirit is actually highlighting — then, we simply need to obey. No guilt. No obligation. Just trust Him.
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This week, ask the Holy Spirit: Who are You highlighting for me to disciple right now?
Then follow up with asking Him how you are to specifically encourage this person to better hear God’s voice and live empowered by the Holy Spirit.
That is what discipleship means.
That is what “ministry” actually is.
God bless,
Nathan
