Make Disciples That Make DisciplesSample

MAWL

Paul calls the Corinthian believers his spiritual children, gently guiding them toward maturity. He emphasizes that he didn’t write to shame them but to warn and nurture with fatherly care (1 Corinthians 4:14–15). He invites them—and us—to follow his example as he follows Christ (1 Corinthians 11:1). This pattern of training underlies every faithful disciple-maker.

The MAWL cycle—Model, Assist, Watch, Leave—is the framework Jesus and Paul used to multiply followers who would go on to build vibrant, self-sustaining communities.

Model

The first step is to provide a living example. Paul wrote, “Be imitators of me, as I am of Christ” (1 Corinthians 11:1). Just as a child learns to ride a bicycle by watching someone pedal, steer, and balance, new believers need to observe how we read Scripture, pray, forgive, and serve. Every act of mercy, every moment of worship, plants a vision of what life in Christ can look like.

Assist

Once the vision is clear, we walk alongside. In the assist phase, a parent steadies the handlebars and encourages persistent pedaling even when the bike wobbles. Paul exemplified this when he labored “in Gospel ministry” and suffered “with the churches” so they would grow in faith (1 Corinthians 4:17). We replicate this by mentoring new disciples: holding their hand through prayer, coaching them in sharing their story, and guiding them through Scripture tools.

Watch

Mastery takes time. A parent watches a child practice starting, braking, and navigating obstacles until every skill becomes second nature. Likewise, we observe emerging leaders as they lead a small group, pray for a friend’s healing, or share the Gospel with boldness. We look not only for competence but also for character—evidence they can steward truth and love others faithfully when challenges arise.

Leave/Launch

Freedom ignites passion—no one rides a bike more eagerly than when they know they can set out on their own. At last comes the moment to let go. Ultimately, the Holy Spirit is the greatest teacher, and we can trust that the Spirit will empower those who are actively in pursuit of the Spirit’s guidance.

Questions to consider:

• Which phase of MAWL seems the most comfortable?
• Which feels most challenging?
• Is there someone for whom God is calling you to model life in Christ?