What is Discipleship?

We can know the Christian vocabulary and still need practice loving the person in front of us. Discipleship brings what we believe into how we live as we follow Jesus and learn to become more like Him. Every committed Christian is invited into that work, including those of us who already know the answers in Bible study. At its core, discipleship involves learning from Jesus’ teachings, imitating His example, and actively participating in the Christian faith. Knowledge matters. So does what we do with it. Following Christ asks us to bring our choices, habits, and relationships into the lesson. Jesus called His followers to be disciples, inviting them into a life of commitment, growth, and service.

A disciple, in biblical terms, is a follower and student of Jesus Christ who seeks to learn from Him, emulate His teachings, and live according to His example. The word "disciple" comes from the Greek word mathetes, which means "learner" or "pupil." Disciples are called to actively engage in a relationship with Christ, growing in faith and understanding while also making other disciples (Matthew 28:19-20). In essence, a disciple is someone who not only believes in Jesus but is also committed to following Him and participating in His mission.

In Matthew 28:19-20, Jesus gives the Great Commission: “Go therefore and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit, teaching them to observe all that I have commanded you.” This command highlights the importance of discipleship as a core aspect of the Christian faith, as it not only emphasizes the need for individuals to follow Christ but also for believers to help others do the same.

Jesus serves as the ultimate model of a disciple-maker. He didn’t just teach; He lived out His teachings in the presence of His disciples. His life was an example of how to love, serve, and relate to others, making Him the perfect guide for our own journey of discipleship.

Watch how Jesus teaches

Jesus taught, showed, and walked alongside His disciples. They could hear His words and see how He lived them. He taught His disciples through parables, sermons, and direct instruction, providing them with the foundational truths of God’s Kingdom. For example, in the Sermon on the Mount (Matthew 5-7), Jesus lays out essential teachings on how to live righteously and reflect God’s character.

Jesus gave His disciples more than a lecture to remember. He showed them a life to follow. He demonstrated love, compassion, and humility in His interactions with others. Consider His encounter with the Samaritan woman at the well (John 4:1-26), where He breaks societal norms to offer her living water, showing that He values every individual.

Furthermore, Jesus mentored His disciples through personal relationships, spending time with them, answering their questions, and guiding them through their doubts. His interactions reveal that discipleship is about relationship—building trust and understanding, just as He did with Peter, James, and John.

Put following into practice

The practice begins in ordinary places: prayer, Scripture, worship, community, service, and sharing our faith. No spiritual obstacle course required. We do need to keep showing up.

1. Prayer: Engaging in prayer is essential for developing a relationship with God. In 1 Thessalonians 5:16-18, Paul encourages believers to “pray without ceasing.” Prayer allows us to communicate with God, seek His guidance, and align our hearts with His.

2. Bible Study: Delving into Scripture is vital for understanding God’s Word and His will for our lives. Psalm 119:105 says, “Your word is a lamp to my feet and a light to my path.” Regularly studying the Bible helps us grow in knowledge and faith.

3. Worship: Worship is a powerful way to express our love for God. Colossians 3:16 encourages us to “sing psalms, hymns, and spiritual songs.” Through worship, we can experience God’s presence and draw closer to Him.

4. Church Community: Being part of a church community is crucial for discipleship. Hebrews 10:24-25 emphasizes the importance of gathering together, encouraging one another, and growing in faith as a collective body. The church is where we find support, accountability, and opportunities to serve.

5. Fellowship and Support: Engaging in fellowship with other believers is essential for our spiritual journey. Acts 2:42-47 describes how the early church devoted themselves to teaching, fellowship, and breaking bread, illustrating the importance of community in discipleship.

6. Serving and Evangelism: Discipleship involves serving others and sharing the Gospel. In Mark 10:45, Jesus says, “For even the Son of Man came not to be served but to serve.” By following His example, we actively live out our faith and help others encounter Christ.

   
   

Grow, then help someone grow

The ultimate goal of discipleship is twofold: becoming more like Christ and making disciples. As we learn to follow, we help others learn too. We remain students even when we become teachers. As we grow in our relationship with Jesus, we are transformed to reflect His character, embodying love, grace, and humility. Romans 8:29 reminds us that we are predestined to be conformed to the image of His Son.

Additionally, discipleship is about multiplication. Just as Jesus commissioned His followers to make disciples, we are called to share our faith and help others grow in their relationship with Christ. Sharing that life with others carries the Gospel beyond our own circle and takes the Great Commission seriously.

Put this into practice

Discipleship takes a lifetime. We follow Jesus, grow in faith, and help others do the same, returning to the work when we stumble. It encompasses various aspects, from personal spiritual growth through prayer and Bible study to engaging in community and serving others. As we embrace this process, we will become more like Christ and fulfill our calling to make disciples.

Prayer

Heavenly Father, thank You for inviting me into the journey of discipleship. Help me to grow in my relationship with You through prayer, Bible study, and worship. Teach me to love others as You have loved me, and empower me to share the Gospel with those around me. May I become more like Christ each day, and may my life reflect Your love and grace.

In Jesus’ name, I pray. Amen.