Taking A Zero: Imagining the Stages and Gauges of Discipleship

"How are you doing?" It's not just the normal greeting of two people as they pass in the hallway. Today the question comes from your doctor and the occasion is your annual physical. The way you respond matters. So do the results of your tests: weight, blood pressure, temperature, labs. What do these indicators say about your development and physical condition?

In Taking A Zero, Rick Shafer asks the same question: "How are you doing?" As a faith formation pastor, he wonders how Jesus' disciples are getting along - spiritually. How would you respond to that question? What indicators would you rely on?

We know that good habits - disciplines - can contribute to good health. But how do we know if they really are helping? This book offers four stages and five gauges of discipleship - indicators of spiritual formation for disciples, guides, and churches. As we are being conformed to Christ and his kingdom, we can find opportunities to celebrate growth. And we can be alert to areas that need more attention.