Making Disciples: A Handbook of Christian Moral Formation

by Timothy E. O'Connell

This book looks to theology, psychology, and sociology to answer the how do people actually come to embody Christian values, and what do these learnings mean for church and ministry?

202 pages, Paperback

First published April 1, 1998

Reviews

[Stuart Houghton · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book provides valuable insight into how strongly our values and moral behaviour is shaped by the community of people we are a part of. But it also points out that individuals do not have to be unthinking mirrors of everyone around them, reflecting the values and morals of society. There is one clear conclusion: if you look as Jesus and think to yourself, "I want to be like Him", then look at your social circle and do not see Jesus among them, you will have to work very hard to resist their bad influence in your life, or you will have to get yourself a new set of friends.

Making Disciples is a book that puts into words and provides the reasons for things I have long felt - that I am highly influenced by the people and culture around me, and much of it is not good for me. This is why I have tried to be more saturated in the Bible and Jesus than popular music, TV and movies. But Making Disciples also points out that every single one of us has the resources to be disciplined and deliberate about the values we cultivate in ourselves and with which we influence others. It challenges us to make the right choices and be a good example for others to observe and imitate.

[David · Rating 5 out of 5]

Excellent use of social sciences to elucidate discipleship and ministry in our tine. An excellent read. A core text for seminary training.