Prayer is essential to disciple-making because it expresses dependence on God for people, opportunities, wisdom, protection, conviction, endurance, and spiritual growth. Jesus prayed before choosing the twelve, and the New Testament repeatedly connects mission with prayer.
Pray Before Choosing Whom to Invest In
Disciple-making relationships involve time and trust. Prayer helps leaders seek wisdom rather than simply choosing the easiest or most impressive person.
Pray for Open Doors
Paul asked believers to pray for opportunities to speak the gospel clearly.
Pray for the Disciple’s Heart
Ask God to produce hunger for Scripture, repentance, courage, humility, and obedience.
Pray for Specific Struggles
Temptation, relationships, fear, work, family, and decisions should become part of intercession.
Article 015: Pray Together
A disciple learns prayer partly by hearing and participating in the prayers of a mature believer.
Pray When Progress Is Slow
Disciple-makers cannot force timing. Prayer helps replace manipulation with patient dependence.
Pray for Reproduction
Ask God to prepare the disciple to influence others faithfully.
Pray for the Disciple-Maker
Leaders need protection from pride, burnout, temptation, discouragement, and self-reliance.
Prayer Keeps the Relationship God-Centered
Without prayer, disciple-making can become coaching powered mainly by personality and planning. Prayer continually reminds both people that God is the One who changes lives.