As we look at where these cords of Evangelism, Discipleship, and Shepherding may fray or be underdeveloped, hopefully the principle of the coexistence of the three will not be undermined. It can be easy to look at something up close and lose the topographical picture of how it is part of what God created. Evangelism and Pastoring are the most challenging for me personally, both requiring us to love others, often without reward. Discipleship often has challenges but also in this life can reap observable rewards. It is not without its challenges, but less paper will be devoted to that topic than the other two. Due to the fact that earthly rewards may or may not be present or less detectable in Evangelism or Pastoring, the fraying will often begin with these two areas. The natural progression from Evangelism to Discipleship demands the presence of Shepherding. If a pastor allows Discipleship to be frayed, so will Evangelism be frayed.
Author: Wilf Scheuermann, excerpt from the transcript God’s Grade ©2015, Revisions ©2025; Photo by Mariya: https://www.pexels.com/photo/seil-14045562/