The work of the church in its efforts to bring the message of salvation to lost men is twofold. According to the Savior’s commission, it is to “make” disciples; it is also to keep disciples. It is to seek for believers; it is also to shepherd believers. It is to win men to Christ; it is then to build men up in Christ Jesus the Lord. The one is vital; so also is the other. This was stressed clearly in the language of the Master Himself when He said: BSPC 187.1
“Go you therefore, and teach [“make disciples,” margin] all nations. Teaching them to observe all things whatsoever I have commanded you.” Matthew 28:19, 20. BSPC 187.2
The work of salvation is a beautiful whole. On the one hand, it means gathering men and women from the world of sin; on the other, it means nurturing and instructing them in the principles of the kingdom of God. BSPC 187.3