Evangelism and Discipleship

Let me clarify, however, that to me making known the Good News means more than making converts. Certainly that is primary, but the objective of the Gospel in the context of the Great Commission is to make disciples, that is, learners committed to following Christ, teaching them in turn to do the same, that through the process of multiplication, someday the nations will hear the Gospel (Matt. 28:18–20).

It is the vision of reaching the world with God’s saving revelation that drives evangelism and evangelical theology. The Commission comes from him who has all authority, and therefore with the assurance that, however long it takes, God will accomplish his purpose. Every believer enters into this mission. Making disciples is not a special gift or calling; it is a lifestyle of obedience incumbent on the whole body of Christ, the church.

― Robert E. Coleman, The Master Plan of Evangelism