Whether in teaching, preaching, or discipleship, there are few models of application more helpful than the “head, heart, hands” approach. In this model, the “head” represents our thoughts, beliefs, and understandings; the “heart” represents our feelings, desires, and choices; and the “hands” represent our actions and behaviors.

Over the past few decades, evangelical churches have tended to prioritize one over the others. I grew up in the era when “worldview” was the primary focus. Change the “head”—through gaining a more biblical perspective—and we could change the world. Then in my 20s, we began to focus on “hands” by literally wearing a WWJD (“What Would Jesus Do”) on our wrists. By imitating the actions of Jesus, we could transform society. Much later, we were told that our “heart” was where we should be focused since “you are what you love.” Change our desires and we could change the culture (or at least the culture of the church).

The problem is not that any of these are a wrong area of focus, but rather that they are incomplete without the others. In his recent article, “Don’t Disciple People into Fragmented Faith,” Daniel Takersley explains why we need a more holistic—and biblical—approach. “Our intellect, emotions, and actions work together in spiritual growth, and all must be addressed in discipleship,” says Takersley. “Genuine transformation requires Christians to know and be and do. We see this in several places in the Bible.“ Takersley provides some helpful advice on how to bring the head, heart, and hands into a more holistic harmony.