Disciple-makers can use curriculum as a helpful tool while keeping Scripture, relationships, prayer, and obedience primary. A workbook or study guide can organize important teaching, but it should not become the thing that makes disciple-making possible.
Let Scripture Remain the Authority
Curriculum should point people toward the Bible rather than replace it.
Use Curriculum as a Guide
A resource can provide sequence and questions without controlling every conversation.
Adapt to the Person
A grieving believer, new Christian, or mature leader may need different pacing.
Do Not Rush to Finish Lessons
Completion is not the same as transformation.
Ask Application Questions Beyond the Page
Move from information toward actual obedience.
Leave Room for Real Life
Important struggles may require attention even when they are not in the scheduled lesson.
Teach the Disciple to Lead Without the Resource
Eventually the person should be able to open Scripture and disciple someone without needing the same book.
Article 162: Evaluate Fruit
Ask whether the resource is producing greater biblical understanding, obedience, and reproduction.
Test Whether the Disciple Can Continue Without the Book
Near the end of a curriculum, ask the disciple to lead two meetings using only Scripture and the normal discipling rhythm. This reveals whether the resource has equipped the person or created dependence.
Use the Resource to Build Skills
Do not only ask whether the disciple finished the lesson. Ask whether they learned how to read Scripture, ask questions, pray, obey, and help another person. Skills remain useful after the curriculum ends.
Curriculum Should Serve Disciple-Making
The best resource helps people follow Jesus more faithfully while making itself increasingly unnecessary.