The Theology of muepsilontaualpha(with)-Evangelism: The Theological, Historical, Practical Cases for Robert Coleman's Principle of Association in Discipleship Strategies Today

The Gospel accounts of Jesus' disciple-making show that making disciples takes time and sacrifice. Robert Coleman calls Jesus' practice of being with the Twelve 'association'. However, discipleship strategies have often neglected it. This study seeks to corroborate theologically, historically, and practically Robert Coleman's prioritization of association in the formation of Christian disciples.;This research seeks answers to four questions. First, what theological support exists for Coleman's principle of association in church discipling strategies? Second, does the history of evangelism support the importance and value of association as a key component of disciple-making? Third, do contemporary theories of mentoring and apprenticeship support the emphasis Robert Coleman puts on the importance of association in Jesus' disciple-training work? Fourth, how have Robert Coleman and others implemented the principle of association in discipleship training? Do results of these questions bear out Coleman's emphasis on its importance?;The study focused particularly on the writings of Robert Coleman on association as well as those of Allan Coppedge and Thomas Jay Oord. It highlighted Edward Sellner's concept of "soul friends" and David L. Watson's historical perspective on Wesley's use of small groups. It also employed a number of theoretical lenses including Lewis Rambo's "encapsulation theory," Allan Tippett's "decision-making theory," "cohesion theory," and Heinz Kohut's "self-development theory." Finally, case studies related to Robert Coleman's own practice and mentoring of the association concept were studied.;The study found that Coleman's principle of association is key not only for conveying knowledge to disciples but, even more importantly, for helping them to follow Jesus daily in life. The study also revealed that when Coleman's principle of association was applied in Celtic Christianity and Wesley's small groups, it proved to be a vital component in making disciples. In addition, the study observed the deep relationships between association and conversion, commitment, and Christlikeness. Finally, case studies of Robert Coleman's practice of association are evaluated to discover evidences. The study concluded that Coleman's emphasis on association is much needed in disciple making today.