Chapter 7: Developing Disciples

The Purpose of God and the Task of His People

God's desire is to gather the world to Himself in Christ. (Eph. 1:9,10) His might and heart are directed toward the purpose of connecting a people to Himself in intimacy, gratitude, and service. The story of God reconnecting people to Himself is the real story of history and the central message of the Bible and the life of Christ.

There are really only two things that can be done for people in regard to this story of reconnection. First, they must be adopted by a new father. Second, they must learn to live in that new relationship. This is what is meant by justification and sanctification (discipleship). These two things are the work and purpose of God, and they are also works in which He invites us to participate.

This chapter of the handbook will explore what it means to be involved in the sphere of God's work of "developing disciples." InterVarsity is committed to a ministry of developing disciples in the student world who gratefully respond to God's work of redemption with worship and a life of love. We recognize this task as the essence of God's plan, so we desire to give ourselves to this work.