Small Batch Discipleship

by Tracy Sullivan

Wondering if there's more to the Christian life? The truth is...there is!

We're all looking for greater purpose in life and to somehow make a difference in the world around us. We search high and low to discover this purpose in our work, family, hobbies, and adventures. But what if your greatest life purpose has been right in front of you all along?

The truth is Jesus has already shown you the way. Your biggest adventure is found in the small batch. God has invited you and me to walk with Him, to love and be loved by Him, and to lead others to take God up on His invitation too. By linking arms with those around you and embracing your own Small Batch Discipleship journey of faith, you can know God more personally, enjoy authentic community with others, and embrace the greater purpose God has intended for you all along.

Sessions include:
1. Defining Discipleship,
2. Discipleship is Relationship,
3. Embracing Your Greater Purpose,
4. Abiding Daily,
5. Loving God: Bible Study and Prayer,
6. Loving Others: Fellowship and Evangelism,
7. You Are a Leader,
8. Vision and Multiplication.

Discussion questions included in each chapter. Streaming video, Leader's Guide, and Church Leader Bundle with 4-part Challenge Activity Facilitator's Guide are also available.

253 pages, Kindle Edition

Published August 11, 2020

About the author

Tracy Sullivan, a seasoned leadership strategist and executive coach, has spent more than twenty years training Fortune 500 leaders and shaping organizational culture in the finance, healthcare, and nonprofit industries. She also speaks and teaches at ministry events and conferences around the world. Tracy has personally led small batch discipleship groups for over a decade. She lives with her husband, three children, and canine sidekick in St. Louis, Missouri, and is a connoisseur of all things small batch.

Reviews

[Darcy Schock · Rating 5 out of 5]

It has been on my heart quite a bit lately how “small” may be overlooked. We want to do big things, not small. But I think small holds incredible power. Tracy does an amazing job at helping us understand and live out small batch discipleship. She dives into what discipleship is, how to set a strong foundation for it, and lastly how to lead others into discipleship.

You don’t have to have a big audience, or thousands of people hanging on your words. You simply start with the people God has placed right in front of you. One of my favorite quotes from the book is this: “Be faithful in the small things, for in the end we’ll discover they were the only ones we ever truly held in our hands. And when we join hands with one another, we’ll find God handcrafts us all together into something beautiful and grand.”

I believe in our pursuit for big we miss the things that make up the big picture. Grab this book if you want to stop believing bigger is better and want to start impacting the world for Chris—right where you are. This book is an incredible tool to help you live out the great commission command. It will equip you to be both a disciple of Christ and of others.

I was able to read Small Batch Discipleship for free in exchange for an honest review.

[Lisa Oddo · Rating 5 out of 5]

Tracy is experienced in discipleship in a number of ways. She shares her insight and experiences with us in Small Batch Discipleship. We may be guiding someone 0ne-one, leading a small group, or in charge of many. Her tips, backed with scripture, are priceless. Each chapter ends with a wrap-up of important ideas with questions that guide us in introspectively examining our leading styles, determining where we are, and how we can use experiences to grow individually as well as help others in their faith journey.

[Monique Smith · Rating 5 out of 5]

Tracy Sullivan I am enjoying Small Batch Discipleship immensely. It’s evident that Tracy has a firm understanding of the subject of Discipleship and the important relationship between the Discipler and the Discipled.
You will find “ Small Batch Discipleship” to be well written, and easy to grasp. It will be a book that you will need to keep handy because it will become one you’ll find yourself going back to again and again.

Disciple-making involves the transfer of two things from the discipler to the disciple: truth and life. (See 1 Thess. 2:8.)

The above is one of my favorite quotes from Tracy Sullivan’s book “Small Batch Discipleship”. For me the above quote speaks directly to the importance of heeding God’s Call to be disciples. What’s more important than sharing with others the Truth and Life of our Father. Nothing.

[Melissa Henderson · Rating 5 out of 5]

Each one of us is filled with potential to be a disciple and spread the love of God to others. In this wonderful book, author Tracy Sullivan gives examples from her own life and the lives of others to show ways we can be strong disciples and make a difference in the world. Her encouragement and inspiration are amazing. I received a complimentary copy of the book. No review was required.

[Yolanda · Rating 4 out of 5]

I was given the opportunity to read this book before its release, and I took the author up on the offer. Discipleship is not something I've seen done well in my community, and I was curious about her perspective. Her words challenged me to abide in Christ, allow Him to grow fruit in me, and look for the people God wants to be part of my small batch. The book is easy to read, Biblical sound, and full of true stories about discipleship.

[Darryl Dash · Rating 5 out of 5]

Most Christians want to disciple others, but don’t know where to start. Small Batch Discipleship: Embrace Your Greater Purpose Through Handcrafted Relationships by Tracy Sullivan is meant to help you get started by understanding discipleship, knowing what steps to take, and by pointing you toward a vision for leading discipleship.

TARGET AUDIENCE

Small Batch Discipleship is written for women. Most of the illustrations and references in the book are geared toward a female audience within the church. However, the principles described in this book apply to all Christians, and anyone interested in discipling others could benefit from reading this book. Sullivan writes, "This material is for all women who believe there’s something more to the Christian life than what they’ve experienced so far – and perhaps for the men who know and love them."

APPROACH

Sullivan envisions the discipleship process in three phases:

- exploring discipleship
- building foundations of the faith into practice
- equipping disciples to lead others

The book is organized around these phases. It begins with Sullivan’s own story. Part one then defines discipleship from Scripture and emphasizes the importance of relationship in discipleship, helps us understand the kind of person to look for, and describes the kind of group we should aim to create.

Part two helps us understand our identity in Christ, and then guides us in building lives of intimacy with him through Bible study, prayer, evangelism, and fellowship. It covers the basics of the Christian life and assumes nothing.

Part three reminds us that God created all of us to influence others as teacher, coach, mentor, spiritual parent, and friend. We’re all called to lead others to follow Jesus as we follow him so that they can lead others too.

The message of the book is clear, and Sullivan provides examples to show what her teaching looks like as it’s lived out.

KEY TAKEAWAYS

- A disciple is a lifelong learner and follower of Jesus.
- We should look for people who know the least about Jesus and are hungriest for him.
- Before we disciple others, we must be disciples ourselves.
- The greatest measure of our lives is the influence we have on others.
- If you are a follower of Jesus, you are qualified and called to make disciples.

RECOMMENDATION

This book would best be used as a study for a group of women who are interested in how to disciple others. It is clear, practical, and approachable.

We need more books like this that help us understand not only how we can grow, but how we can invite others to join us. Small Batch Discipleship provides a clear plan on how we all can do this.

Note: I received an advance copy from the publisher. The review above is my honest opinion about the contents.

[Hillary · Rating 5 out of 5]

Due to our distance from our church family, we are not involved in many church activities. I have been feeling a bit lost in my place in the church (and not just our congregation). As a mother raising small children, I felt that my place to serve from was home, with our children. The children are growing and not so little anymore. But where and how do I get involved? We don't socialize much (and in this environment in 2020 some of the possibilities are even more limited) so what is a mama to do? Through Small Batch Discipleship I am learning just how I can play a part in our church community. I am seeing how I can serve the Lord, fulfilling the Great Commission, in the place where I am (physically and spiritually). If you are struggling to feel useful or have a group of women to serve the Lord with, you'll find both practical help and encouragement in this book.

[Kate Kieffer · Rating 5 out of 5]

Reading Small Batch Discipleship was such an encouragement. Tracy reminds us that as Christ followers, no matter our age, stage/season of life, backgrounds, work experience, or location, we can share Jesus and make disciples. I am a stay-at-home mom of littles. In this season of life it seems sort of impossible to make disciples, but after reading this book I believe I can do it! Tracy writes about discipleship in a way that makes it tangible, possible, and attainable with God's grace and the Spirit's guidance. Small Batch has challenged me to strengthen my friendship with Christ not only for my own benefit, but to build up and lead others, including my children.

Small Batch Discipleship will challenge you with the Word of God. Scripture is quoted frequently, beautifully, and intentionally. You can expect to find practical ways to spend daily time with the Lord, read the bible, pray, and share the Gospel. Tracy shares real life stories about every day men and women discipling others and also tells the stories of men and women in the bible in a refreshing way. You will also learn skills to help you walk alongside/lead others in their personal walks with Jesus.

In Small Batch Discipleship Tracy writes, "Everyday people like you and me must begin to walk out a discipleship lifestyle in our homes, schools, and workplaces, one small batch at a time. Eventually, if we do, the influence of Jesus will be multiplied beyond our wildest imaginations. We need a vision that is so big, so God-sized, if it actually happened it could only be explained by an act of God. We need to look no further than the life of Jesus to see how this is done."

Everyday people in everyday moments. Small, but impactful. Nothing complicated, simply Jesus.

I received an advanced copy from the publisher and have left an honest opinion about the book.

[Pamela McCraw · Rating 5 out of 5]

Laced with wisdom and common sense, “Small Batch Discipleship” is the urgent reminder we need that this life is not about us. Simple and straightforward, Tracy Sullivan’s words challenge us to first invest in our own relationship with God, specifically through daily prayer and reading the Word, then to pay it forward (in a manner of speaking) by investing in others. Disciples beget disciples. As followers of Jesus, participating in and fulfilling the Great Commission is not optional.

The author smartly cautions us to walk humbly lest we be tempted to believe that discipleship is anything other than God-centered. Perhaps her most compelling statistic is the fact that every single person alive among the billions of us on earth would hear the name of Jesus Christ if we, the Church, took New Testament commands to preach the gospel seriously.

This book is a new jumping off point for my own discipling process and the ministry to women that I’m blessed to be part of in my church. I look forward to sharing this jewel with my sisters, empowering and encouraging them to step out of their comfort zones as I do the same.

“Small Batch Discipleship” is a well-written and thoughtfully illustrated roadmap for replication and multiplication. Equal parts humor, urgency, practical stories and real life applications make it easily readable for the young and the young at heart.

*I received an advance copy of this book from the publisher. The review above represents my honest evaluation of the author’s work.

[Sarah · Rating 5 out of 5]

Too many of us think that discipleship is hard, boring, overly complex, or impossible. But Tracy Sullivan proves that in small batches, discipleship is greatly rewarding and even delightful.

I love the storytelling and metaphors in this book. The stories kept me hooked chapter after chapter. As a small group leader myself, many of Tracy's points resonated with me. The book will help both seasoned leaders and new leaders understand how to do discipleship, which is so important in post-Christian America.

I received a preview copy of Small Batch Discipleship from the publisher, and I highly recommend it to you.

[Ashlee Stalcup · Rating 5 out of 5]

I finished reading Small Batch Discipleship this morning during my quiet personal study and I will be rereading it when my physical copy arrives. I've highlighted, underlined, and journaled. The best books require personal assessment and encouragement to action-this one achieves this and adds in the how! I was praying for direction on building fellowship with my sisters in Christ. I saw an opportunity from the publisher to receive an advance copy and when I read the description I thought this might just contain some of the answers I've been praying for. I jumped at the opportunity and what a blessing it has been for me to add this into my study and to find the answers God had for me. Ms Sullivan uses her life and professional experience to teach us how to be better disciples while leading others into discipleship. She breaks down, the why, the how, the results, the vision, and the joy of discipling in an accessible and engaging way. I highly recommend this book to anyone wanting to build and strengthen others in their journey with Christ while still imperfectly journeying with Christ themselves. For as Tracey Sullivan states in the book "Maybe an imperfect vessel like you or me is the best way to call another imperfect person to this great adventure of grace."
PS I can't wait to get the corresponding Small Batch Discipleship Leader's Guide!

[Tricia Mcwilliams · Rating 5 out of 5]

"One Small Batch At A Time"


This book is filled with scriptures, wisdom and stories from the author and others sharing how to live our lives as disciples. It's a reminder to share whatever we have with others. Whether we think we have a lot or a little to share it can all come together to make huge impacts in this world.

Love has no bounds, the more it's shared the more it multiples. This book is informative in how to share more love one small batch at a time.

Two of my favorite quotes from the book are:

"The  presence  of  the  Word  of  God  in  your  life  is not  intended  for  your  consumption  alone.  You  are  responsible to  steward  the  truth  God  entrusts  to  you  even  beyond  yourself."

"God  meets  our  needs through  community,  and  He  entrusts  us  to  steward  all  we’ve been  given  as  if  doing  so on  His  behalf."

I received an advance readers copy of this book. This is my honest review.

[Kimberly Devore · Rating 5 out of 5]

As a woman in ministry, I have felt defeated and deflated causing me to re-evaluate my purpose. This book could not have come at a better time. Tracy completely touched, encouraged, and spoke into the tensions I faced in ministry. I have been looking at the bigger picture and bigger groups, when it is the small groups and one-in-ones that relationships really grow and deep discipleship happens. Preaching in front of a large group, I know, made a difference, but the time spent in smaller groups is where the discipleship is deeper and can be taken out to disciple others. As Christians, we have been called to share the Gospel, and through Tracy’s books she shares what that looks like through God’s Word and the impact that is has. This is a book that is an easy read, and one I highly recommend!!!

[Sheila Edens-Brown]

We have been given the wonderful responsibility of being a part of the Great Commission and joining Him in missions. We are chosen to share in this mission. To many of us the thought of this is scary. “Small Batch Discipleship shows us how to take the steps to discipleship through fellowship and Evangelism. Through small steps you realize that you are a leader for Christ.

This book, for me, was right on time being that I am at the beginning of being in a mentoring relationship with others for Christ.

This is a must read for anyone that wants to grow as disciples for Christ.

I received an advanced reader copy of the book. This is my honest review.

[Patti Pierce · Rating 5 out of 5]

As Christians, we are called to go out and spread the Gospel message. Tracy Sullivan has written a book that explores this topic in a way that makes you feel as though she is speaking to you personally. She breaks the book into 8 sections that include Defining Discipleship, Discipleship Is Relationship, Embracing Your Greater Purpose, Abiding Daily, Loving God: Bible Study and Prayer, Loving Others: Fellowship and Evangelism, You Are a Leader, and Vision and Multiplication.

I believe that cultivating relationships and nurturing them creates a powerful community working together for God's Kingdom. This book helps convey that message in an easy to read and enjoyable message. So check out this book for yourself.

[Kristin Walerius · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book was phenomenal! As Christians we know that we are supposed to be making disciples, but so often we don't really know how to do that. This book lays it out in a simple, easy to follow format that allows the reader to make sure that they are first a disciple, but then also reach out to others to make disciples. I love that it is done in a way that is totally how most women understand things. The examples of others putting this into practice provide in your own life reality. This is a book that I will read many more times.

[Mariann · Rating 5 out of 5]

I loved that Tracy Sullivan is able to put discipleship into actions that aren’t overwhelming. We just need to be able to interact with others in meaningful ways and help spread God’s Word. When it’s broken down in the manners she describes, it’s so simple! One of my favorite quotes is this:

if we each think the other person is responsible for something, neither of us is likely to be reliable to do it. By the same standard, who is responsible for fulfilling the Great Commission? All of us!

Amen!

[Amber · Rating 5 out of 5]

Each one of us is filled with potential to be a disciple and spread the love of God to others. In my life, I am a small group leader and community team leader volunteer with P31 Ministries and this books helps me be able to disciple more. In this wonderful book, author Tracy Sullivan gives examples from her own life and how we can also help others be a good disciple of Christ. Her encouragement and inspiration are amazing, I was part of a small group of people who was able to read this book via a launch team. I cannot wait to get the book to re-read it and highlight all the great information!!!

[Teresa Idoux · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book is a perfect and simple book for this time. It helps to share the important message of discipling while giving encouragement as you take the steps to reach out and start. I think this is the area that most Christian struggle in, not knowing how, or where to start. This book gives a clear take at what discipleship is and what it can look like to step forward to share about Christ, a few people at a time.

[Ann · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is a well written book that was easy to read and understand. It's not a book you will read one time and forget about, you will refer back to it often. It's not about taking a huge leap, it's about taking baby steps to lead others. I highly recommend this book to all women. I received a complimentary copy of this book and was not required to write a review. All opinions expressed are my own.

[Michelle Biernbaum · Rating 5 out of 5]

Small Batch Discipleship has changed the way I view my responsibility and privilege to participate in God's plan. It helped me realize that the Great Commission is more than a command - it's an invitation to WAY greater purpose than I could have ever imagined for myself. Not only was this a great book to read personally, it's structured so well that I intend to use it as a guide for future bible studies I may lead on this topic. If you've been struggling through the Christian walk, expecting more out of your faith than just sitting in church, this book will be a welcome eye-opener! It's both encouraging and challenging and I can't wait to share it with my own "small batch" of disciples.

I received a copy of this book from the publisher and these are my open and honest thoughts on the content. I highly recommend for personal reading and group study!

[Steve Gregory · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is a good guide for both the new and experienced people who are or want to be in the process of discipling others. As a person who disciples others, I found the stories and insights very helpful in both my personal journey in my relationship with Jesus Christ and in my role as a guide to others. The time it takes to read and study Small Batch Discipleship is well worth it.

[Quantrilla Ard, The PhD Mamma · Rating 5 out of 5]

I love community-based discipleship and wanted to read this book to gather tools to help my family continue our tradition in a new place. If you are wanting to start your own small group fellowship, this book will give you practical and spiritual examples of how you can do so. The author’s way of coming alongside you rather than teaching at you truly makes all the difference.

[Debra Southern · Rating 5 out of 5]

I have been looking for a book that would lead me, beyond myself, into discipleship, and Tracy’s book provides that. Her book took me through a process that began with my relationship with the Lord and ended with being ready to discipleship on my own. I found each chapter filled with great insight and the questions at the end of each chapter provided me with better knowledge. After reading her book, I will use it to lead another small group into discipleship.

[Heather Reynolds · Rating 5 out of 5]

Very grateful to have received a publishers advanced copy. After reading a lot about mentorship during this last year, Tracy’s book on discipleship and what that means and looks like for Christian women today couldn’t have come at a better time! For women searching for community in their walks, this book will be so helpful!

[Mandii L. · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book is such a great read for small group study. It has a practical application, easy to read and understand, and would be a great book to start a faith fellowship at church or the workplace. I received an advance copy. I can’t wait to share with my small group when we meet again!

[Becky · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book was very helpful to me. As a leader in my church, I will be using this book to more affectively disciple people that I lead. The questions provided at the end of each chapter are very thought provoking.

[Stacy Bishop · Rating 5 out of 5]

As Christians, our main goal is to disciple others. That is often a task that seems overwhelming and unapproachable. “Small Batch Discipleship” gives practical advice for HOW to approach discipleship in a way that seems achievable without massive amounts of courage. It’s a must read for all Christians who are ready to take the Great Commission seriously.

[Jackie Phillips · Rating 5 out of 5]

I was one of the lucky ones to receive an advanced copy of Small Batch Discipleship from the publisher.  I was so thrilled to dive into this book in hopes that it would guide me in my small groups and most importantly my “small batch” I have right here at home, with my husband and children.   I learned discipleship does not have to be in a leader role.  We were all meant to be God’s disciples and it is the little things and sharing the fundamentals of our faith that count.  Tracy’s use of personal experiences made it so relatable to my life and knowing that this life of discipleship is tangible to anyone, even me.  It has reignited my spark to have my daily quite time with God to build my relationship with him so that I may disciple the small batches that God has placed in my life.

[Jenn · Rating 5 out of 5]

I had the opportunity to read an early copy of this as part of a launch team from the publisher and these are my personal, honest opinions of this book. Tracy Sullivan has a great way of relating to the reader through her personal experiences and showing us just how we all are part of small batches whether we realize it or not. This book enhanced what I already knew about small group (batch) discipleship. I highly recommend this book to anyone who is part of a small group or wants to be part of one...or who is just seeking to learn more about discipleship.