Watch one, Do one, Teach one!

If you ask any medical professional about this instructional methodology, there will be a knowing smile. The model has been around for thousands of years as the Hippocratic apprenticeship approach. Though attributed to various medical professionals, it is hard to ascertain exactly when and where the phraseology of “watch one, do one, teach one,” was attached. Now the method is commonly applied to everything from business communication to law enforcement training.

Watch One

As a result of participating in the DiscipleWay training experience believers should understand the biblical foundations of discipleship and spiritual disciplines. This begins by seeing an appropriate model. Therefore, the trainer will model his or her experience of God’s grace through the discipleship process. This was part of the ministry of Jesus as well as early rabbis and teachers. Their disciples would live with them and watch them closely. Paul followed the example of Jesus as he instructed believers to follow him in 1 Corinthians 11:1 "Imitate me, just as I also imitate Christ."

Being a DiscipleWay trainer requires a time commitment, a close relationship, and a commitment to be transparent with trainees. Progressing through the study of spiritual disciplines provides structure and direction for intentional modelling. Unintentional modelling and recognition of teachable moments may also be maximized.