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Follow to Lead: The Journey of a Disciple Maker
Jesus’ command to “go make disciples” is the foundational precept of the Great Commission. Pastor Stan Gleason explores the church’s critical mandate to make disciples from biblical, theoretical, and practical viewpoints. An accomplished disciple maker himself, the author encourages every believer to make disciples.
184 pages, Paperback
Published June 16, 2016
60 people are currently reading
164 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 35 reviews
March 7, 2019
If you are a Christian, read this. Stan Gleason writes about the true heartbeat of the church, and what it means to be a follower of Jesus Christ, which is to be disciples that go out and make disciples. We are called to be the church Monday-Sunday, and this book is a tool that gives believers an understanding of how to do this through the model of the Scriptures. I read the last page feeling inspired, convicted, and ready to see who in my life and at my church I can go and disciple. This is where revival happens!
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December 9, 20255/5 stars 💜
Honestly one of my favorite Christian nonfictions I’ve read in a very long time. Such an anointed take on the idea of disciple making in today’s church culture. It’s also incredibly refreshing to read from a Oneness Pentecostal perspective as I don’t get to do it as often as I would like.
Honestly one of my favorite Christian nonfictions I’ve read in a very long time. Such an anointed take on the idea of disciple making in today’s church culture. It’s also incredibly refreshing to read from a Oneness Pentecostal perspective as I don’t get to do it as often as I would like.
October 1, 2018
Excellent
December 30, 2021
This book was amazing! It captured me in every way. I love the idea of disciple making.
May 24, 2017
This is a very thought provoking book on doing what Jesus actually said in the Great Commission. I am very thankful for this insight and will definitely be sharing it with many others who cross my path. I want to be a disciple and I want to make disciples. I am applying the principles of this book to my life, and will definitely improve some of the things our churches are doing now to do a better job of making disciples.
February 12, 2019
Every Christian should read this book. This is a game changer for the Oneness Apostolic Pentecostal movement. In actuality, it’s a long overdue message, and one that will have long-lasting effects. I highly recommend it.
September 10, 2021
If you’re reading this article, you probably identify as a Christian. But are you a disciple? And if you are a disciple, are you a disciple-maker? Those are the questions posed in Follow to Lead: The Journey of a Disciple Maker by Stan O. Gleason. On the surface, it’s hard to pin down a category for Follow to Lead. It’s a leadership book, but not really. It’s a church growth book, but not really. Follow to Lead is a lifestyle book that challenges the reader to commit to a radical biblical lifestyle mandated by Jesus. Rather than selfishly hunkering down in our salvation bunkers, Gleason admonishes the Church to obey the Great Commission and go make disciples (Matthew 28:18-20). Gleason is emphatic that this co-mission isn’t just for a chosen few, especially sanctified saints, certain personality types, pastors, evangelists, or any other ministry mantle we can envision. No Christian is exempted from the mandate to make disciples.
Interestingly, Gleason focuses on the ancient method of discipleship employed by Jesus during his relatively short earthly ministry. Unarguably, the replication of Jesus’ ministry through His disciples even after His death, burial, and resurrection was remarkable. Notably, though we often forget, the rabbi (teacher) relationship with the disciple (trainee) was not unique to Jesus’ ministry. This method was an integral part of Jewish culture, and it was highly relational. When Jesus invited fishermen to follow Him, they knew what He was asking of them. They were entering into a rabbi-disciple relationship. Jesus poured Himself into the chosen twelve in ways it was impossible to do with the multitudes. Yet, a little introspection reveals most modern churches are more interested in shaping the masses than discipling the few close to them. Gleason lovingly but convincingly cautions the Church to lay aside excuses and make disciples of our neighbors who will then make disciples of their own.
A thread runs throughout the chapters of Follow to Lead, reminding us repeatedly that there’s no such thing as discipleship without relationships. This concept seems intuitive, but not in this modern culture that keeps us globally connected yet locally disconnected. We’re partitioned off from one another by phone screens, computer screens, and tablet screens. Our communities are carefully fenced in, and we rarely know our next-door neighbors. However, Gleason implores us to break down these self-imposed barriers and disciple our neighbors by building trust, maintaining relationships, and being ready to teach. If we all genuinely followed this model, our churches would be overflowing within a few short years.
Follow to Lead is filled with practical examples for implementing a paradigm-shifting mindset in a local congregation. Transforming the culture of a local church begins from the top down. It’s hard work. But what a powerful transformation would take place in our local churches if we all simply did what Jesus commanded us to do. Gleason lays the groundwork for helping church leaders nudge a congregation away from being department-minded into being relationship-minded. This unifying concept brings everyone together in the mission of discipling the lost into a deep, Bible-based walk with God. With that in mind, our language matters. So, Gleason encourages us to lay aside terms like “soul-winner” and “evangelism” and pick up more appropriate (in it for the long haul) terminology like “disciples-makers.” As Gleason says:
After you “win,” then what? When you win, it’s over, but when you make disciples, the process is ongoing. Regardless of the implications, you can see the difference terminology makes when communicating the mission of the Church. Jesus did not tell us to win anything, but rather to go make everything.
I’m not ashamed to admit that Follow to Lead challenged my thinking and poked holes in some of my internal excuses. But it didn’t just leave me feeling shame. It inspired me to reach out to my community with fresh passion and renewed vision. Gleason isn’t presenting a theory but a theology. A theology of missiology that is relevant in every culture and region. Undoubtedly, practical application in your life and church will probably look slightly different from mine or even Gleason’s. Regardless, our mission and mindset will coincide because Gleason calls us to follow the most remarkable example of all… Jesus.
Interestingly, Gleason focuses on the ancient method of discipleship employed by Jesus during his relatively short earthly ministry. Unarguably, the replication of Jesus’ ministry through His disciples even after His death, burial, and resurrection was remarkable. Notably, though we often forget, the rabbi (teacher) relationship with the disciple (trainee) was not unique to Jesus’ ministry. This method was an integral part of Jewish culture, and it was highly relational. When Jesus invited fishermen to follow Him, they knew what He was asking of them. They were entering into a rabbi-disciple relationship. Jesus poured Himself into the chosen twelve in ways it was impossible to do with the multitudes. Yet, a little introspection reveals most modern churches are more interested in shaping the masses than discipling the few close to them. Gleason lovingly but convincingly cautions the Church to lay aside excuses and make disciples of our neighbors who will then make disciples of their own.
A thread runs throughout the chapters of Follow to Lead, reminding us repeatedly that there’s no such thing as discipleship without relationships. This concept seems intuitive, but not in this modern culture that keeps us globally connected yet locally disconnected. We’re partitioned off from one another by phone screens, computer screens, and tablet screens. Our communities are carefully fenced in, and we rarely know our next-door neighbors. However, Gleason implores us to break down these self-imposed barriers and disciple our neighbors by building trust, maintaining relationships, and being ready to teach. If we all genuinely followed this model, our churches would be overflowing within a few short years.
Follow to Lead is filled with practical examples for implementing a paradigm-shifting mindset in a local congregation. Transforming the culture of a local church begins from the top down. It’s hard work. But what a powerful transformation would take place in our local churches if we all simply did what Jesus commanded us to do. Gleason lays the groundwork for helping church leaders nudge a congregation away from being department-minded into being relationship-minded. This unifying concept brings everyone together in the mission of discipling the lost into a deep, Bible-based walk with God. With that in mind, our language matters. So, Gleason encourages us to lay aside terms like “soul-winner” and “evangelism” and pick up more appropriate (in it for the long haul) terminology like “disciples-makers.” As Gleason says:
After you “win,” then what? When you win, it’s over, but when you make disciples, the process is ongoing. Regardless of the implications, you can see the difference terminology makes when communicating the mission of the Church. Jesus did not tell us to win anything, but rather to go make everything.
I’m not ashamed to admit that Follow to Lead challenged my thinking and poked holes in some of my internal excuses. But it didn’t just leave me feeling shame. It inspired me to reach out to my community with fresh passion and renewed vision. Gleason isn’t presenting a theory but a theology. A theology of missiology that is relevant in every culture and region. Undoubtedly, practical application in your life and church will probably look slightly different from mine or even Gleason’s. Regardless, our mission and mindset will coincide because Gleason calls us to follow the most remarkable example of all… Jesus.
November 7, 2017
The author of this book has genuinely expounded what the Lord Jesus Christ truly meant in Matthew 28:19. The Lord Jesus not only commissioned us to go preach the Gospel but also has commission us to make disciples. The latter is what most of us missed. No wonder we only do less compared to the first century Christians who done more and achieved so much despite the fact that they lacked the advantages and privileges of which we enjoy.
Be a disciple to make disciples. Making disciples is the only business that the Lord Jesus Christ has told us to do. The author has refer the examples of disciples who made disciples from both the Old Testament and the New Testament of the Bible or known as Rabbi-disciple relationship; i.e. Moses who made disciple of Joshua, Elijah discipled Elisha, Jesus Christ Himself discipled the 12 disciples, Peter made disciple of Mark etc.
One of the purposes of making disciples is because the person(s) that we discipled is what will outlive us to preserve the values that we taught them and last for generations. Thank God that the Rabbi-Disciple relationship exists and after thousands of years it still serve us to ever come to the knowledge of God.
Be a disciple to make disciples. Making disciples is the only business that the Lord Jesus Christ has told us to do. The author has refer the examples of disciples who made disciples from both the Old Testament and the New Testament of the Bible or known as Rabbi-disciple relationship; i.e. Moses who made disciple of Joshua, Elijah discipled Elisha, Jesus Christ Himself discipled the 12 disciples, Peter made disciple of Mark etc.
One of the purposes of making disciples is because the person(s) that we discipled is what will outlive us to preserve the values that we taught them and last for generations. Thank God that the Rabbi-Disciple relationship exists and after thousands of years it still serve us to ever come to the knowledge of God.
August 28, 2024
*Follow to Lead: The Journey of a Disciple Maker* by Stan O. Gleason is a compelling and practical guide for anyone interested in Christian discipleship. Gleason, drawing from years of pastoral experience, emphasizes the importance of relational discipleship, where the focus is on leading others by first being a devoted follower of Christ. The book is both theological and practical, offering clear steps on how to mentor others in their spiritual journey.
Gleason’s approach is refreshing in its emphasis on the personal and relational aspects of discipleship, rather than mere programmatic methods. He argues that true disciple-making involves investing deeply in the lives of others, much like Jesus did with His disciples. The book is accessible, making it a valuable resource for church leaders, small group leaders, and anyone passionate about fulfilling the Great Commission.
In summary, *Follow to Lead* is a thoughtful and inspiring read that challenges Christians to embrace the responsibility and privilege of making disciples, providing practical tools and encouragement to do so effectively.
Gleason’s approach is refreshing in its emphasis on the personal and relational aspects of discipleship, rather than mere programmatic methods. He argues that true disciple-making involves investing deeply in the lives of others, much like Jesus did with His disciples. The book is accessible, making it a valuable resource for church leaders, small group leaders, and anyone passionate about fulfilling the Great Commission.
In summary, *Follow to Lead* is a thoughtful and inspiring read that challenges Christians to embrace the responsibility and privilege of making disciples, providing practical tools and encouragement to do so effectively.
December 14, 2023
Stan Gleason has written a great book for those wanting to empower others and show them the way. This book, while focusing on Christian values and disciple-making, is valuable to anyone wanting to mentor others. This book is focused on growing yourself, while challenging others. You will be changed when you turn these lessons into action.
If you look at your greatest leaders, you will find they are life-long learners. Gleason is one of these life-long learners and leaders. What he writes, he writes from experience. Thousands of leaders and common individuals have been impacted by what and who is Stan Gleason.
If you look at your greatest leaders, you will find they are life-long learners. Gleason is one of these life-long learners and leaders. What he writes, he writes from experience. Thousands of leaders and common individuals have been impacted by what and who is Stan Gleason.
February 8, 2020
I can't give this any less that five stars because it is so practical and scriptural and a wonderful motivator to live a disciple making lifestyle. It makes you think about and re-evaluate your purpose in your local assembly.
March 9, 2022
This book is one that is a read of a lifetime. If only I would have had this book to read 30 years ago, and then implement it...what changes could I have made?
Practical instruction. Common sense analogies. Biblical backing of the very concept of Disciple Making!
Practical instruction. Common sense analogies. Biblical backing of the very concept of Disciple Making!
December 24, 2024
A fav author! We are called to be disciples and yet, many of us don’t.great points, reflection questions and an opportunity to look inwards in addition to a call to disciple others. I would recommend this to those new in the church and seasoned saints.
September 18, 2017
WOW! This book is a great contributor to those who are soul winners and want to take the next step in providing themselves and their followers with the tools to win the lost. I enjoyed every morsel.
November 27, 2018
I had to read this for school, and I did really enjoy reading it and I think I got a lot out of it. It won’t be something I forget about
December 29, 2020
Easy to read and follow, and written very conversationally. Extremely relevant and convicting book about how to make disciples. It’s so practical and personally challenging. I will definitely be revisiting it time and time again.
January 31, 2021
I initially thought this book was about leadership, but in fact it was about discipleship. Great for Bible study teacher training.
May 22, 2021
Amazing, thought provoking
October 15, 2021
This is the best book on discipleship! It has convicted me to be more intentional in my reaching for people and more patient during the process.
January 27, 2024
This is an amazing book about discipleship. It provides a biblical formula for making disciples. I highly recommend to anyone in ministry.
February 6, 2024
Very insightful and inspiring to make disciples and be an efficient diciple.
January 2, 2025
Excellent writing from a true Disciple-maker.
January 5, 2026
Top shelf book!! Highly recommend this book for every church leader!
June 30, 2024
Great Book for a Church Book Club!
This book was used in our church book club group. It was so awesome in teaching how to make disciples and importantly, make friends first!
This book was used in our church book club group. It was so awesome in teaching how to make disciples and importantly, make friends first!
December 13, 2020
An inspirational book
On first reading the book, I had my doubts about the subject and if it was going to be a typical lesson on how we need to witness. While reading the book all I could think was how inspiring his book was, it was a simple idea that eased the “pressure” of winning people to God. Before even finishing the book, I started witnessing to my co-worker and have since then started doing Bible study’s with him during our free time on the job.
I would definitely say this is a must read, glad I got the chance to open my mind more on working in Gods kingdom
On first reading the book, I had my doubts about the subject and if it was going to be a typical lesson on how we need to witness. While reading the book all I could think was how inspiring his book was, it was a simple idea that eased the “pressure” of winning people to God. Before even finishing the book, I started witnessing to my co-worker and have since then started doing Bible study’s with him during our free time on the job.
I would definitely say this is a must read, glad I got the chance to open my mind more on working in Gods kingdom
June 10, 2018
Must Read for Church Leaders
This book is an excellent resource for both church leaders and every day Christians. The author clearly lays out the need to make disciples as well as actionable steps. He does not simply teach a theory but also discusses implementation. There are few books that speak the volumes this does in such short pages.
This book is an excellent resource for both church leaders and every day Christians. The author clearly lays out the need to make disciples as well as actionable steps. He does not simply teach a theory but also discusses implementation. There are few books that speak the volumes this does in such short pages.
January 1, 2019
Life- HELPING
Are you interested in meaning more to the people around you? Of having more of as purpose in life than to simply show up, pay your dues, and leave? Is your church culture stagnant, complacent, lacking direction?
Is church growth, or simply being a Christian a mystery to you?
This book is for YOU!
Are you interested in meaning more to the people around you? Of having more of as purpose in life than to simply show up, pay your dues, and leave? Is your church culture stagnant, complacent, lacking direction?
Is church growth, or simply being a Christian a mystery to you?
This book is for YOU!
May 24, 2019
This book challenged me to do more for the Kingdom of God that ever before! I can’t wait to start making disciples instead of just trying to win souls for the Kingdom. I was also challenged to be more intentional in how I interact with others. I must share the Love of Jesus with every person I come in contact with.
August 21, 2023
Excellent book for church leadership & congregation
Excellent book for church leadership & congregation. Gives a very clear biblical mandate for the vision and growth of the church.
Excellent book for church leadership & congregation. Gives a very clear biblical mandate for the vision and growth of the church.
October 12, 2018
This will be a book I re-read!! Love it---ready to walk in it.
This has been my favorite book read this year--i guess because I was ready for it. I'll read it again!
This has been my favorite book read this year--i guess because I was ready for it. I'll read it again!
Displaying 1 - 30 of 35 reviews