Jesus said that He would build His church (Matthew 16:18). His followers are commanded to make disciples. ( Matthew 28:19) His definition of a disciple is someone who is taught and does His commands. (Matthew 28:20) The underlying Greek word for disciple is "mathetes," someone who is a learner. In order to learn one must be teachable. And we need someone to teach us how to live in a Christ honoring way. This requires mutual commitment, and accountability on the part of the disciple to the discipler.
I can say that i am submitted to the Lordship of Christ. If someone is deeply involved in my life that claim can be verified or not. In practice very little of this discipleship is happening in the US. Part of the reason is that the Church has not forged a culture of discipleship.
If we can accept the premise that pastors are the best equipped to disciple people (possible) then most have no vision for this, have no time after their other duties, and could not personally disciple very many even if convinced that this was the will of God.
Americans are culturally opposed to the idea of being accountable to anyone. God is raising up pioneers; the challenge is great. How to persuade someone that merely going to a good evangelical church, and being a nice person is not what Jesus requires but rather a transformation of one's whole life. Prayer, the ministry of the Holy Spirit, and denial of self from those who are receiving the call to discipleship are crucial. May God have mercy on us. Jesus says about those who would be His disciples
John 8:31-32 They will know the truth of the Word of God
John 13:34-35 They will love one another
John 15:8 They will bear much fruit (other disciples)
Luke 14:25-35 They will renounce all that they have
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