Now let's get specific and practical. How do we do this well? Believers in need of mentors fall into two categories: those who want to be mentored and those who do not. Let's begin with those who do—with growing Christians, those of our family or friends who are walking with God and are open to our help and encouragement. How do we influence them for Christ?

Following Jesus' example, first we follow the Spirit's guidance. Jesus taught his disciples "through the Holy Spirit" (v. 2). We cannot lead our families or friends to God without God's help. We ask the Spirit to guide us to those we are to influence. Then we yield this relationship to the Spirit, pray for the Spirit's guidance and wisdom, and listen constantly to his leadership.

Have you prayed about your spiritual influence with your family or friends? Have you asked the Spirit to guide you? Ever? Today?

Second, we teach faith essentials.

Jesus made certain they knew that he was alive—that he was and is our Savior and Risen Lord (3a). That they knew their purpose was to build his Kingdom (3b), to extend his rule into the lives of all mankind.

He had spent three years with them, but he wasn't done. We are never finished with this crucial work. Have you taught your family and friends the essentials of our faith? Are they committed to them?

Third, lead through relationship. Jesus ate with them (4a), as he had earlier with his followers in Emmaus (Luke 24:30) and his disciples on the shore of Galilee (John 21:12).

We lead best out of daily relationship, personal commitment and affection and friendship. Make time to eat together, to travel together, to have fun together. Experience life together.

Jesus spent three years living with his followers. We lead best as he did, through ongoing personal relationship.

Fourth, direct to the Spirit. Lead your family or friend to experience the power of God's Holy Spirit. They don't need our ability, wisdom, or money—they need God's Spirit. Lead them to him.

These disciples had to wait in the Upper Room for Pentecost and the Spirit's entrance into their lives. We don't. We can and must be "filled with the Spirit" today (Ephesians 5:18). We can and must yield our lives to the Spirit, confess every sin he reveals to us, ask him to guide and use us.

Have you taught your family or friends to do this? Are you controlled by the Spirit this morning?

Watch the results:

In the next chapter, each of Jesus' followers will be his witnesses. Peter, his failed friend, will be his preacher. 3,000 will be saved. The number will grow to 5,000 families. And by Acts 17:6, the church will have "turned the world upside down." And Jesus' model for mentoring still works today.

So, what growing Christians are you discipling? Where are you helping someone follow Jesus? Would you ask him to guide you to that person today?